VOLUME XLVII, NUMBER 49 Your Local News Source Since 1963 SERVING LIVERMORE • PLEASANTON • SUNOL THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 Agreement Will Reduce Bird Deaths An agreement has been negotiating the agreement that outdated, inefficient and deadly search Program and half to East er turbines operating at Altamont reached with wind energy opera- addresses the state’s need for to thousands of birds each year. Bay Regional Park District and Pass killed an estimated 1,766 to tors owned by NextEra Energy renewable wind energy and Under the agreement, NextEra the Livermore Area Regional 4,271 birds annually, including Resources, LLC, to expedite the state’s obligation to protect will replace some 2,400 turbines Park District for raptor habitat between 881 and 1330 raptors the replacement of old wind tur- resident and migratory birds. over the next four years and will creation. such as golden eagles — which bines in the Altamont Pass Wind Attorney General Edmund G. shut down all its existing turbines Rich Cimino, Ohlone Audu- are protected under federal law Resource Area with new, larger Brown Jr. announced the agree- no later than 2015. The company bon Eastern Alameda Coun- — hawks, falcons and owls. The wind turbines that are less likely ment Monday. also has agreed to erect the new ty Conservation Chairman, is bird fatalities at Altamont Pass, to harm birds. The Altamont Pass Wind turbines in environmentally pleased with the agreement. “I an important raptor breeding area Golden Gate Audubon, Santa Resources Area in Alameda and friendly locations. think at this point, it’s the best that lies on a major migratory Find Out What's Clara Valley Audubon, Mt. Dia- Contra Costa counties is the site NextEra agreed to pay $2.5 compromise.” route, are greater than on any blo Audubon, Ohlone Audubon, of the world’s first wind turbines. million in mitigation fees, half A 2004 study commissioned other wind farm in the country. Happening and Marin Audubon joined the These units, constructed more to the state Energy Commission’s by the California Energy Com- In September 2005, Alameda Check out the Attorney General’s Office in than three decades ago, are now Public Integrated Energy Re- mission found that the 5,400 old- (See WIND POWER, page 4) second section Section II is filled with infor- mation about arts, entertainment and special events. There are education stories, a variety of Cities, features, and the arts and enter- tainment and bulletin board list Schools Dealing With Pension

ByCosts Ron McNicoll Growing concern about the future obligations of pension plans and post-retirement medi- cal coverage has surfaced in the Valley during the past few months. Pleasanton City Council can- "Two Dancers" by Greg didate Karla Brown and may- Hawthorne is one of three oral candidate Cindy McGovern proposed for purchase. raised the issue of dealing with unfunded future liability during the campaign. McGovern also Pleasanton OKs raised this issue in the past, as did Kay Ayala, when she was on 10-Year Public Art the city council. Pleasanton resident Bart Acquisition Plan Hughes has addressed the city Pleasanton residents Nancy council about his views on the and Gary Harrington have pro- topic. Hughes and Brown spoke posed a 10-year public art acqui- Photo - Doug Jorgensen to the council at its meeting Dec. sition plan for the city. Cubs and Boy Scouts from Troop 939 took part in the annual Livermore holiday parade. For more photos, see page 2. (See PENSIONS, page 4) The Pleasanton City Council reviewed and approved phase one of the plan at its Dec. 7 meeting. Phase one includes the pur- Wide Spectrum Contributes to East Bay Economic Health chase of three sculptures. Fund- By Ron McNicoll Bay provides the public with a week by the East Bay Economic acting in concert because both government, non-profits and phi- ing has been provided by the A report that calls for a co- big-picture profile of what has Development Alliance (EBEDA) job development and various lanthropy to solve long-term eco- Harringtons. Cost to the city operative effort among govern- happened to the area in the past and the East Bay Community human services are important nomic problems for the region, would involve site prepara- ment, business, philanthropy 10 years, and shows trends that Foundation (EBCF). It was the for the residents of the East Bay. which is comprised of Alameda tion, installation and/or signage. and non-profit groups in solving give hope in the current troubled first time that the two organiza- They are united in perceiving and Contra Costa counties. Staff estimates the cost would the job, education, and social times. tions have issued a joint report. that there really is no separation As a whole, the area sank a be around $7500 per sculpture. services problems of the East The report was issued last The two organizations are between the efforts of business, (See EAST BAY, page 4) Funds are available in the city’s public art acquisition fund. The Harringtons have pro- posed including several sculp- tures and murals. Their goal is Pleasanton Mayor, Council- to raise financial support through a process of collaboration with members Sworn In local businesses. As part of the Pleasanton Mayor Jennifer in two areas. One will be main- funding campaign, the Har- Hosterman and Councilmembers taining the fiscal health of the ringtons are willing to match any Jerry Thorne and Cheryl Cook- community. She stated. “I am donation of $3500 or more until Kallio took their oaths of office grateful to my fellow mayors for sufficient funding for a particu- for the positions they will hold working with me on projects to lar sculpture or mural has been for the final time at Tuesday’s city help to create local jobs.” achieved. council meeting. A second focus will be deal- The three sculptures to be Hosterman will serve two ing with pension reform. Hos- acquired under phase one are more years, Thorne and Cook- terman said there are plans to Two Dancers by artist Greg Kallio four years before they hold workshops. She invited the Hawthorne; Spiral Motion III reach term limits. entire community to be part of by artist Jon Seeman, and Cobalt All three thanked those who the discussions concerning those One-Two Kids by artist Dominic. helped to re-elect them. reforms.. This phase will serve as the start Hosterman stated, “I drove Cook-Kallio said that when of establishing a sculpture walk through downtown on my way to she first ran four years ago, she within the downtown area. The the meeting. It is truly lovely. We wanted to have a conversation sculpture walk is proposed to have a lot to be proud of and to be about Pleasanton. “All of the evolve over time as artworks thankful for in Pleasanton.” candidates should be congratu- become available and locations Over the next two years, Hos- lated. It is difficult to put yourself are identified. terman said her focus would be (See PLEASANTON, page 5) Two Dancers will be located at the Firehouse Arts Center. The Harringtons provided Photo - Karen Vizzard examples of some of the work Retired Scientists Help Sean Hesler examines a sick child held by its grandmother. The child is one of 7 orphaned by that could be purchased. Prices the death of their mother. Unable to care for them, the grandmother is looking for homes to for range from $45,000 for a cast them. granite piece to $18,000 for fused Livermore Schools glass pieces. A program in the Livermore Retired scientists from Law- Councilmember Cheryl Cook- Valley Joint Unified School Dis- rence Livermore National Lab- Kallio commented, “This is truly trict has found a way to provide oratory (LLNL) and Sandia Back to Haiti: Livermore Doctor an exciting program for the city. excellent science teaching at no National Laboratories volunteer The Harringtons have been truly cost to the district. their time in science classrooms Returns After Narrow Escape (See ART, page 5) The program, TOPS (Teach- in Livermore and in San Joa- A young, natural-medicine are rare and often prohibitively employed a ruse worthy of an ad- ing Opportunities for Partners quin County. Every Livermore doctor from Livermore returned expensive. venture novel to escape the coun- in Science) has been in use for elementary and middle school to Haiti with his wife this week to Sean and Sarah Preston Hesler try when Haitians were rioting many years. It was begun by the has one of the volunteers, said provide medical help to pregnant are directors of a birthing clinic and threatening strangers over Final Meeting San Joaquin County Office of Art Krakowsky, one of the vol- women and children in a region sponsored by a U.S. nonprofit suspicions that United Nations Looks At South Education. (See SCIENTISTS, page 5) where doctors and hospitals organization. Last month, they (See HAITI, page 9)

Livermore Plan Pet of the Week The final session in a series Inside Monet is as pretty as a picture and is looking for her forever home. of town hall meetings sponsored She arrived here last February as a shy kitty and has grown into by Alameda County to possibly an outgoing cat. She’s not a big fan of the shelter atmosphere expand some of the uses allowed Art & Entertainment...... Section II Mailbox...... 4 in the South Livermore plan will and really needs a space to call her own. If you adopted Monet, Bulletin Board...... Section II Short Notes...... 9 be held at 6 p.m., Dec. 14. town you would be very lucky to own such a spirited and extraordinary hall meeting at the Martinelli Classifieds...... 10 Sports...... 6 kitty. Monet also holds the coveted honor of "Mayor of Kitty City." Event Center, 7986 Tesla Road, Editorial...... 4 Obituaries...... 9 To learn more about adoptable animals, call 925-426-8656 or Livermore. visit www.valleyhumane.org. Valley Humane Society is located A major focus will be whether at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton and is open Tues- Sat from (See PLAN, page 2) 11AM to 5PM.” PAGE 2 - The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010 PLAN (continued from page one) or not a destination hotel should were issues to be discussed. be allowed in the wine country. Others expressed concern There is no proposal for one about some parking problems now. However, some residents already present, and whether the have said it would help out the county could do more to regulate wineries, because for the most parking. part, visitors who want to stay At this final town hall meet- overnight must drive back to the ing, staff will have reports sum- freeway. marizing previous contributions However, some residents said from participants. Reports will a destination hotel could be too be available a few days before much development for the area, the meeting, but the exact date bringing in more traffic that could is not known, because the county cause parking problems, and pos- counsel’s office is reviewing sibly even be growth-inducing. various issues that were raised The size of the footprint of in the discussions. such a resort, how close it could People who want to obtain the be to the urban growth bound- reports before the meeting may ary, and whether it would create call senior planner Jana Beatty pressure to bring a water line to it Weldon at 510-670-5400.

Photos - Doug Jorgensen Livermore hosted the annual holiday parade and tree MTC to Consider Public lighting last Saturday in the evening. A special visitor Participation Plan from the North Pole was MTC's Planning Committee, detail has been added on how to on hand for the festivities. in conjunction with the Associa- participate in developing a re- Equestrians were part of the tion of Bay Area Government's gional plan that MTC is working annual parade. In the photo, (ABAG's) Administrative Com- on with ABAG for sustainable at lower left, snowballs were mittee, will consider MTC's Final communities required under state the order of the day at Lizzie Draft 2010 Public Participation law to reduce greenhouse gases. Plan at a meeting to be held this Fountain, where the annual If approved on Friday, the Final snow-day was held. Tossing Fri., Dec. 10. Draft will be forwarded to the full This document lays out the MTC Commission for consider- a snowball is Sarah Ryan steps MTC will take to involve ation on December 15. from Livermore. residents in decisions affecting To view MTC's Final Draft Bay Area transportation and land Public Participation Plan, the cor- use policies and investments, and respondence received in response includes changes (indicated by to the revised draft plan, as well strike-through or underscored as a summary of comments text) in response to comments and responses go to www.mtc. received from numerous groups ca.gov/get_involved/participa- and individuals on a revised tion_plan.htm draft, which was issued in Oc- The meeting will be held at tober. In particular, additional 101 8th Street, Oakland.

Photos - Doug Jorgensen Dublin hosted its annual tree lighting ceremony last week. A special visitor included Santa Claus shown greeting youngsters. The recent rains provided a sparkling reflection of the brightly lighted tree. One young admirer stands in front of the tree, which is located at the Civic Center. The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010 - PAGE 3 From Toxicity to Life: Arsenic Proves to Be a Building Block Arsenic - an element that The new study by Lawrence she showed that that a strain of heavy metal concentrations (that it’s a poison to most other life “It’s very difficult to make triggers death for most Earthly Livermore National Laboratory Gamaproteobacteria can not only are found in Mono Lake),” Pett- forms,” Pett-Ridge said. “It could these measurements because the life forms - is actually allowing and led by NASA and the U.S. survive using arsenic but can Ridge said. “Arsenic is right be an ancestral trait or a unique sample concentrations of arsenic for a bacterium to thrive and Geological Survey has found grow as well. below phosphorous on the peri- kind of metabolism. Or it could are very low,” she said. “But it’s reproduce. that a bacterium isolated from “We know that some microbes odic table and it may have found be that it lives in an environment clear that the cells are incorpo- In a study that may prompt the Mono Lake may substitute ar- can ‘breathe’ arsenic, but what a way to substitute arsenic for where arsenic is very high and it rating arsenic into them. There rewriting of textbooks, a team senic for phosphorus to sustain we’ve found is a microbe doing phosphorous in its biological found a niche to survive.” are not a lot of organisms on the of astrobiologists and chemists its growth. something new - building parts makeup.” “This organisms’ metabolic planet that can do this. “ has found the first known living Mono Lake, located in eastern of itself out of arsenic,” Wolfe- Cultures of the Mono Lake lifestyle suggests that life based The next step is to conduct organism that can use arsenic in California, is an alkaline and Simon, said. samples produced flourishing on non-typical elements may be protein biochemistry to find out place of phosphorus in its major hypersaline lake with high dis- LLNL’s Jennifer Pett-Ridge colonies of the bacterium cells, possible,” Wolfe-Simon said. if there are specific enzymes that macromolecules. The new find- solved arsenic concentrations. It and Peter Weber were able to as expected, when fed a steady “This is important to scientists help transport arsenic into the ings, published in the Dec. 2 is believed to have formed more identify low concentrations of supply of phosphorus, along with looking for clues to life on other cells. Other collaborators include Science Express, could redefine than 760,000 years ago from arsenic found in individual cells other necessities. When research- planets.” NASA Astrobiology Institute, Ar- origins of life research and alter neighboring volcanic eruptions. of bacteria and extracted DNA. ers removed the phosphorus and NanoSIMS not only measures izona State University, Duquesne the way we describe life as we Felisa Wolfe-Simon, a NASA NanoSIMS is a tool that al- replaced it with arsenic, however, the elemental concentrations, but University, Stanford Synchrotron know it. astrobiology research fellow in lows precise, spatially explicit, the microbes continued to grow. also images them. It collects a Radiation Lightsource and BE- Oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, residence at the USGS and the elemental and isotopic analysis Subsequent analyses indicated picture of the image and identi- YOND: Center for Fundamental nitrogen, sulfur and phosphorous paper’s lead author, has been down to the 50-nanomenter that the arsenic was being used fies how much of a specific ele- Concepts in Science at Arizona are the six basic building blocks studying possible arsenic based scale; it also offers a range of to produce the building blocks ment is found in the sample. “We State University. of life on Earth. These elements life forms at the lake for some advantages for sensitive and of new cells. found that arsenic was higher in The LLNL NanoSIMS facil- make up nucleic acids, proteins time. Using samples from Mono high-resolution measurements. “The team hasn’t yet estab- the cells than in the environment ity began from a grant from the and lipids - the bulk of living Lake and a culture medium “It turned out that the organ- lished how the organism uses outside the cells,” Pett-Ridge Department of Energy’s Office matter. with reduced phosphorus levels, ism was able to tolerate these arsenic as a building block when said. of Science Genomes: GTL pro- gram. PAGE 4 - The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010 EAST BAY (continued from page one) little economically in 2001, dur- tra Costa, but lagged behind the Bay economy. The region has Contributions came from EDITORIAL ing the dot-com bust, then grew leader, San Francisco. more than 1100 such organiza- government grants, individuals, greatly in income overall before The East Bay population has tions, which is almost 10 percent corporations and foundations. Altamont Project Honored 2007, a period marked by the been aging, which might have of California’s total. GREEN BUSINESSES The Altamont plant that transforms landfill gas into a housing inflation bubble. When something to do with one aspect Alameda County grew from EMERGING IN EAST BAY clean, renewable fuel is 2010 winner of the Governor’s the bubble burst, with the nation of a key rising industry: health 550 to 820 arts groups between Green jobs have grown in the Environmental and Economic Leadership Award in the recession’s commencement in care and social assistance. Those 2000 and 2008, for a 49 percent East Bay from 23,312 in 1990 Sustainable Facility category. 2007, the sharp decline began. areas rose by 22 percent. jump. In Contra Costa, the climb to 30,876 in 2008, a 32 percent The award is the state’s highest environmental honor. In a look at the future, the re- The population over 65 is pro- was by 41 percent, from 235 to climb. port offers suggestions on where jected to increase by 82 percent, 330. Overall, the East Bay has “a The facility produces up to 13,000 gallons a day of the economy is headed next, and between 2000 and 2020. The Expenditures by arts groups balanced concentration of lower liquefied natural gas from gas generated through the what role such institutions as number of older workers (ages 45 in 2000 were a little above $100 and higher wage employment decomposition of waste at the Altamont Landfill. More the healthcare industry, social to 64) will increase by 40 percent. million. By 2008, that rose to opportunities,” states the report. than 2 million gallons have been produced since the plant services, and even the arts has to At the same time, the number of nearly $250 million. The report One-half of the East Bay’s in- opened in September 2009. play in maintaining the economic younger workers (from 20 to 44) says that according to estimates dustries pay a wage that is higher This is fuel that is near zero in its carbon content. strength of the region. will increase by only 2 percent. from the Americans for the Arts, than average. One-half of the jobs “Converting the landfill gas into a sustainable, clean Many of the report’s statistics With older workers from the spending at the $250 million also pay higher than the state alternative fuel source is the very essence of closed-loop are already known from past Boomer generation staying on levels generates 7200 full-time average. recycling,” commented Waste Management (WM) execu- news accounts, but others may jobs longer, younger workers equivalent jobs, $170 million in The biggest industries in the tive Duane Woods. be surprising, because they have won’t have as much chance to household income, and $10 mil- Bay Area are health care and been reported little, especially move into the work force. lion in revenue for East Bay local social assistance at 12 percent, The facility is operated by WM and Linde North America in a context as large as that of The biggest growth industry governments. retail trade at 11 percent, and in partnership with several public agencies. the report. in the past decade has been edu- Beyond the non-profits’ gen- manufacturing at 9 percent. Some We congratulate them on their prestigious award. May Well-known has been the de- cational services, which is up by eration of jobs, there is also an 8 percent are in management and the Altamont project serve as a model and a beacon as the cline in housing sales since 2007. 111 percent. The report doesn’t impact made by for-profit arts technical services. nation strives to tap major new sources of clean energy. The worst year was 2009, with a break out statistics for different businesses. Some 6432 busi- The average annual wage $1 billion dip, after a high of $3.3 age levels of education. nesses employ 22,922 people in adjusted for inflation rose 44 per- billion in 2005. The first half of However, the report does fo- the region. cent between 2000 and 2009. The 2010 showed upward movement cus on the need to graduate more The report doesn’t specifi- highest average salary increase compared to 2009, with a $21 students to pass the high school cally cite Valley activity in its took place in professional and million increase, which is a 25 exit exam, and to show profi- survey, which ended in 2008, the technical services at $109,000 in percent rise. ciency in third-grade reading, year that the Bankhead Theater 2009. Finance and insurance had WIND POWER FORECLOSURE IMPACT which is an important predictor opened. However, the report the highest percentage increase (continued from page one) WAS LIGHTER ON VAL- of future scholastic and career mentions the stimulus effect of at 110 percent between 2000 LEY success. theaters in other cities on their and 2009. County renewed permits for the mittee that the only way to sig- In the only statistical break- Gains have been made in the commercial districts. They in- The report concludes with turbines. However, several Audu- nificantly reduce impacts to birds down of specific cities in the decade with East Bay third-grad- clude Antioch, Oakland’s uptown a look ahead. It calls for more bon Society chapters and Cali- and keep wind energy generation report, a bar graph shows per- ers’ reading proficiency, as well district, Berkeley’s downtown economic growth to offset the op- fornians for Renewable Energy in Altamont Pass is to remove the centage of East Bay housing as in passing the high school arts section, and Richmond’s Iron portunities lost in the recession. (CARE), a local environmental old-generation wind turbines and foreclosures in 30 cities in 2010. exit exam. However, the results Triangle neighborhood. Improving the lives of the one group, challenged the permits replace them with better sited, Dublin is at the statistical median are spotty, depending on which Len Alexander, executive in five people who lived below in a lawsuit under the Califor- new-generation models. Whether in 15th place at 0.6 percent of the school district is involved. Clear- director of the Livermore Val- the poverty line even before the nia Environmental Quality Act or not the NextEra Energy Re- total county share. Livermore is ly African American and Hispan- ley Performing Arts Center, told recession is also recommended. (CEQA). sources companies replace all in 17th place at 0.5 percent, and ic students, who are concentrated the Livermore City Council on Quality child care and public After a settlement failed to of their turbines on the proposed Pleasanton is 24th at 0.3 percent in urban districts, are not doing Nov. 22 that construction of the schools are seen as keys to bet- substantially reduce the large expedited schedule, they have of the East Bay’s total foreclo- as well, says the report. 2000-seat regional theater near ter economic performance. The number of bird fatalities, Brown committed to ceasing all opera- sures. San Pablo leads the list at Although the report does not Railroad Avenue would generate shortfall on child care itself is stepped in and brokered the tions of their old turbines by the 2.2 percent, and Orinda is last at specify it, the Valley’s school $20 million annually in economic large. The report has a bar graph agreement announced Monday. end of 2015, three years before 0.1 percent. districts have performed at a very stimulation across the region. that shows that among parents Michael Lynes, Conservation they are required to do so under Overall in the region, house high level on graduation rates and There also would be creation of in the labor force for whom a Director with the Golden Gate their current permits. values dropped only slightly in done well in third-grade reading short-term and long-term jobs, licensed child care slot is avail- Audubon Society, stated, “Our “This agreement addresses the decade, if measured in 2002 proficiency. he said. Alexander added that the able, only approximately 36 or agreement sets an aggressive the problem arising throughout and then again in mid-2010. On the down side in employ- Bankhead Theater generates $3 37 percent could be assured of a schedule for removing the old- the state: balancing the need However, the chart shows a roller ment, the region lost 30 percent million in income for the area. place in 2009. That’s up by only generation turbines and replac- for renewable energy genera- coaster ride between the first year of its manufacturing jobs, 43 One of the biggest economic 3 percent or so from 2003. ing them with new-generation tion with subsequent impacts and the last one. percent of its information indus- engines in the region has been To meet the challenges facing turbines that should substan- to wildlife,” said Bob Power, In Alameda County, average try jobs, and 32 percent in the the non- profits. They received the region, it is important for all tially reduce impacts to birds. Executive Director of the Santa home values were $475,000 management sector. No reason $3 billion in contributions in sectors to cooperate in working According to experts studying Clara Valley Audubon Society. in 2002. They hit a peak of is given for the decline. 2008. Most of the money went toward the goals. It has worked in the Altamont Pass, the removal “We appreciate NextEra leading $700,000 in 2007, plunged to ARTS MAKE BIG to three specific sectors: human the past, when government, busi- of the old turbines and replace- the way in the Altamont Pass around $500,000, and have re- ECONOMIC IMPACT services (41.5 percent), education ness, philanthropy, individual do- ment with properly-sited turbines to remove the old turbines and bounded up to around $540,000. Non-profit arts and cultural (16.8 percent), and health (15.4 nors, and community groups join may reduce impacts to birds by properly install new ones that The county consistently has had groups have bolstered the East percent). forces, concludes the report. as much as 80%.” should significantly reduce risks higher housing values than Con- Altamont Pass was heav- to birds. We are also mindful that ily developed for wind power impacts to wildlife will continue generation in the late 1970s and and the Audubon chapters will PENSIONS early 1980s, eventually including remain engaged in conservation (continued from page one) more than 5800 turbines cover- planning and advocacy on behalf 7, and were joined by another ally received refunds after the is funded about 75 to 80 percent, no liability issues with STRS, ing a 56 mile area. These lands of birds and other wildlife in the speaker, Dave Miller, during year was on the books. said Wagner. which covers pensions. at one time provided habitat Altamont Pass and throughout the audience address part of the In that context, many cities With labor contracts coming On medical liability, the dis- for birds and still serve as an the Bay Area.” agenda. offered to pick up 100 percent due next year, there will be an trict pays a maximum of $7500 important migratory corridor for Cimino added, “Ohlone In response to their comments, of employee contributions. They opportunity to negotiate differ- annually for a retiree. Kinder Golden Eagles and other raptors. Audubon is happy and pleased Mayor Jennifer Hosterman stated offset the contribution by not of- ent terms concerning employee said that the medical plan was According to a press release is- with this leap forward. There from the dias that the city is al- fering much in the way of salary contributions, she said. once a front burner issue. How- sued by the Aubudon Society, still remains a lot of work to be ready planning to conduct work- increase, said Alessio. PLEASANTON SCHOOLS ever, now it’s on the back burner, for much of the last decade, the accomplished, including estab- shops that seek public input about However, when the stock ACT ON FUNDING with so many other things more Bay Area Audubon chapters and lishing a monitoring program. In pension and benefits reform. market started taking a dive in In the Pleasanton school dis- important, in the light of the state the operating wind companies addition, the habitat conservation Pleasanton school board 2007, CalPERS investments lost trict, assistant superintendent Luz budget crisis. have struggled to agree on ways plan for the area still has to move members have been aware of approximately one-half of their Cazares noted that accounting LIVERMORE SHIFTS to reduce impacts to birds, bats forward.” contributions their district even- value. CalPERS told the cities standards changes made five ON BENEFITS and other wildlife while fostering He concluded, “By 2015, with tually is expected to make for they were going to have to con- years ago now “strongly sug- Livermore city government the environmental and economic all the pieces in place, the Al- their employees. The district has tribute a bigger share. gest” that school districts list has set up two different trusts, benefits of wind energy genera- tamont area could be a showpiece allocated money over the past So the choice was clearly up unfunded liability on their books, said Alessio. One is with PERS tion in the Altamont Pass. for the world on how to manage two years to deal with the fund- to local governments. Should even though the payments are not for pensions. Medical goes The new agreement reflects large wind farms and reduce bird ing need.. they continue to cover 100 per- due yet. through PARS, another state fi- the consensus of the Alameda deaths.” The Independent talked to cent of the cost, or start requir- It is not a requirement. How- nance agency. That way the eggs County Scientific Review Com- financial staff at the Pleasanton ing a higher contribution from ever, failure to list unfunded are in two baskets, not one. and Livermore city governments employees. liability could result in having to Starting last year, Livermore and school districts to see what Resident Bart Hughes’ com- pay a higher interest rate, if the created a two-tier system on lies ahead for them on the subject plaint with his city is that Pleas- district goes to borrow money, medical benefits. Previously Lab Directors Write in of future financial obligations. anton should have seen the prob- said Cazares. hired employees are grandfa- They have two obligations to lem coming, and acted sooner The district listed nothing on thered in to the old system. New Support of New START retirees. One is for a contribution about a higher contribution from the books in the first year it was employees are paid on the basis to a fund for retirement income, employees. aware of the policy. However, of a defined contribution, instead Senator John Kerry (D-MA), the ranking Republican on the which is handled by CalPERS for Hughes said that he wants the last year and this year, the dis- of a defined benefit, as happened Chairman of the Senate Foreign Committee, the directors of cities and by the State Teachers city to start action right away, by trict has set aside one-half of the in the past. Relations Committee, told the Lawrence Livermore National Retirement System (STRS) for looking at the city pick-up of pay- amount. Next year it hopes to set In the defined contribution, committee that the heads of the Laboratory (George Miller), school districts. ments in a contract negotiated by aside the full 100 percent, which the city is saying, “When you nation’s three primary nuclear Los Alamos National Labora- The other contributions to the Pleasanton City Employees would be $640,000. retire, for every month you are weapons laboratories have de- tory (Michael Anastasio), and be made go for medical cover- Association. That contract is ex- The money next year would here, we will put a certain amount clared their support for President Sandia National Laboratories age after retirement. The issue pected to come to the city council come from the general fund. This of money into the fund. Think of Obama’s updated, 10-year plan to (Paul Hummert) write that the is the same for both funds: how in January. year and last year, the district it as a 401 (k). It’s a savings ac- maintain U.S. nuclear weapons. administration’s plan will sus- much money does the employee In a reference to the earlier used federal stimulus money. count for medical benefits.” They Senator Kerry welcomed the tain the “science, technology contribute and how much comes speakers at the Dec. 7 meeting, Although some residents have no unfunded liability. support and said the verdict from and engineering base” required from the city or district? city manager Nelson Fialho might be concerned that those For the grandfathered em- the nation’s top nuclear weapons to maintain the nation’s nuclear SUCCESS, FAILURE pointed out that the city has an dollars don’t go directly to the ployees, who are on the defined experts should help the Senate stockpile. HINGED ON STOCKS AA+ credit rating, a sign that classroom, the offsetting consid- benefit, the city has agreed to move forward in ratifying New The directors said they are Douglas Alessio, financial it has done a responsible job of eration is that the district needs pay the medical premiums for “very pleased by the update to the services manager in Livermore, money management. to maintain its fiscal health. life, whatever the amount is, said START, the arms control agree- said that in the 1990s, when the City finance director Em- Districts that have not done that Alessio. The actuaries determine ment with Russia. Section 1251 Report, as it would enable the laboratories to execute state investments of cities’ money ily Wagner told the Independent sometimes have had to declare a what the number is. The city sets “This letter is the non-partisan for retirement plans was doing earlier Tuesday that the city is not default, and have been taken over aside the amount. “The liability gold standard when it comes to our requirements for ensuring a well, cities sent in their estimated afraid its AA bonding rate will go by the county schools. is how much money we ought to expertise on the effectiveness safe, secure, reliable and effec- amounts for the year for invest- down. The city has a good ratio In the Livermore school dis- be setting aside.” of our nuclear stockpile,” said tive stockpile.” The update was ment. The returns on the money of unfunded obligations versus trict, chief business official Susan Senator Kerry. “The directors’ submitted by the President on were so great, some cities actu- assests. In that context, the city Kinder said that the district has strong support is a crystal clear November 17, 2010. affirmation that we are doing “We believe that the proposed precisely what is needed to budgets provide adequate support maintain a nuclear deterrent that to sustain the safety, security, is second-to-none. reliability and effectiveness of "The administration is mak- America’s nuclear deterrent (Opinions voiced in letters home foreclosures are too high, those dollars to relieve some of always a serious and conten- ing good on every promise that within the limit of 1550 deployed published in Mailbox are those our debts are too high, and excess our financial mess? We request tious issue and never to be taken President Obama has made on strategic warheads established by of the author and do not neces- amounts of labor are exported to your answer. lightly. the New START Treaty with ad- sarily reflect the opinion of The other countries. We need to ad- In our current economic situa- this critical issue." Independent. Letter Policy: The tion, the banks are just beginning In their joint letter to Senator equate confidence and acceptable dress this issue promptly. Economic Benefits Independent will not publish One alternative may be to to recover from a very serious Kerry and Senator Dick Lugar, risk,” the directors wrote. Kathy Streeter anonymous letters, nor will it dramatically reduce our foreign Livermore downturn and they are just now publish letters without names. aid to other countries. We are in beginning to put their toe in Abusive letters may be rejected I was the Chamber of Com- the water for projects like ours. a jam and need to cut back our merce President for 18 months or edited. Frequent letter writers expenses - just as we have to do Banks are extremely conserva- may have publication of their in Hayward, and on committees tive institutions even in the best letters delayed.) at our homes. interacting with the City for of times and they are more so Publisher: Joan Kinney Seppala Let us help ourselves by re- years. As a retired bank Vice now. But, they are willing to Associate Publisher: David T. Lowell ducing foreign aid by at least one President and Branch Manager, (INLAND VALLEY PUBLISHING CO.) Editor: Janet Armantrout Reduce Foreign Aid proceed with what they call “an half. We can't go on helping other and as a past Rotary President abundance of caution” because Howard and Emilie Seebach countries when our own citizens and Assistant District Governor, The Independent is published every Thursday by Inland Valley Publishing Company, 2250 First St., Pleasanton this is a good project. And “an Livermore, CA 94550; (925) 447-8700. Application to Mail at Periodical Postage Prices Pending at the are hurting so much. Put that I have had the opportunity to abundance of caution” is what Livermore Post Office and additional mailing offices. The Independent is mailed upon request. Go to www. Letter to elected officials: independentnews.com to sign up and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The foreign aid savings in domestic see many communities work pledging some General Fund Independent, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550. It's obvious, we as a country, programs relieving our debt, un- with their local governments to monies in the unlikely event that Advertising rates and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (925) 447-8700 and as citizens, are mired in employment, foreclosures, etc. improve the quality of life for during regular business hours or by fax: (925) 447-0212. financial difficulty. all other resources have been Editorial information may be submitted by [email protected]. What is your response to their citizens. exhausted is. Unemployment is too high, reducing foreign aid and using Using the General Fund is (More MAILBOX, page 5) The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010 - PAGE 5

I can understand the concerns Many thanks for your contin- Open Campus being voiced, because this is a ued support. Without each and Martha Priebat serious decision. But it is all too every one of you we could not Pleasanton easy to hold on to a negative point continue supplying soft, cuddly Having lived in the Livermore of view and not really listen to the blankets for the many abused Valley for many decades, I have answers. It is too easy to talk to and neglected children in our seen numerous changes; some people with the same negative and outlying areas. So many good, others disappointing. One point of view and reinforce each individuals and groups could be thing is certain, change keeps other. It is too easy to look at named, but some might be left happening. today and be afraid of tomorrow. out – So we thank ALL who have One change that could be It is too easy to stand still. contributed time and money to good or bad, depending on its This decision cannot be made “Blankets For Kids." With your implementation, is the Livermore based on exaggerated fear or a help, we have been able to donate lack of understanding. It must be Valley Open Campus (LVOC) based on the economic risk ver- over 21,000 blankets in a little plan. more than 7 years. That’s quite sus future rewards. The rewards This is a proposal to use Photo - Mike Gallagher of building the Regional The- an accomplishment. part of Livermore and Sandia We supply Blankets to many laboratories as an open campus, Livermore Area Recreation and Park District photographer captured the visit of two Tule Elk to ater (cultural, educational, and Sycamore Grove Park. definitely economic) more than organizations who deal with these linking them with industry and justify the moderate risk. The children. And there is always a academia. negative consequences of voting need. If you are interested in our Now, LVOC will be a good this project down are many. Foundation, please call. change if it moves the labs away This is one of those times So, we at “Blankets For Kids” from nuclear weapons and into Elk Spotted in Sycamore Grove of opportunity, when for the and the organizations we serve, research on civilian science benefit of the entire Livermore Thank You!!! problems, like environmental Anyone walking through and tallow. But by the mid- reportedly more than 3,000 Tule Community, residents, business cleanup. Sycamore Grove Park Tuesday 1800s, the influx of people into elk in the state, in large part due people, young people alike; for Livermore Downtown Yet, this same proposal will be morning may have felt like it was California due to the Gold Rush to introduced or managed herds the future cultural, educational Patricia Grimes a bad idea if it funds research that already Christmas if they spot- created a huge demand for meat. scattered around the state. and economic advantages; and Livermore supports more nuclear weapons. ted some reindeer-resembling Additional pressures on elk One small herd of Tule elk to take advantage of the current What kind of downtown do I used to work at Sandia, and visitors. populations included the spread was centered in the Mount Ham- historical lows for both financing I know first-hand that Sandia and construction costs, the Coun- we want for Livermore? Projects Livermore Area Recreation of agriculture, the increasing ilton area. Over the years they currently under consideration and Livermore laboratories have and Park District ranger staff numbers of livestock and habitat have spread into the Sunol wil- cil must have the strength and many talented people, eager to vision to step up and approve this would produce a downtown observed two bull Tule elk (Cer- destruction. Elk nearly became derness region. It is believed that project with the current financing which is towered over by a 9 work on projects that will enrich vus elaphus nannoides) resting in extinct. some of these animals have been package. story theater building, along with all our lives. the park. Although signs of elk, Steps were taken eventually to occasionally traveling up into the huge blocks of condos, apart- Linking these employees with including tracks and droppings, try and protect elk, even though southern edge of the Livermore the computing power at Sandia ments and parking areas to sup- have been found in the park in it was unknown if any remained. Valley. Their visits to the Liver- Downtown BART port this theater and the BART and Livermore, I can see a new Jo Schwan the past, this is the first time Some isolated herds had survived more Valley are unpredictable, station. I suggest we aim for a day. Imagine our best and bright- Livermore photo and video documentation in California. Today there are but notable when they do occur. more people-sized and friendly est focused on solving problems I read Barbara Hickman's downtown area, with develop- such as cleaning up radioactive has been obtained. Since 2007, comments and felt my heart go ments like Blacksmith Square waste and improving air quality. LARPD staff members have re- out to the homeowners in Bart's and the little street with the fudge Let's ensure LVOC makes us corded several episodes of Tule path. We all buy houses for dif- shop – areas like J and K streets proud of living in an era when elk visiting the South Livermore ferent reasons but if it were me, which are attractive rather than science solves problems for pres- Valley, observing either signs or I would be devastated. My home forbidding - a downtown more ent and future generations. the animals themselves. is my life, love, passion and my like Danville than Oakland. The Tule elk is one of three investment. Hopefully I will be The vision of the current city subspecies in California and is able to afford to stay in my home No Connection council will not enhance the Archer Futch the smallest and lightest in color. forever but if not, I would expect downtown, it will destroy it. If The other two are the Roosevelt the sale of my home to keep Former Mayor we need a huge theater, then build Livermore elk, which are the largest, and me comfortable until the end. I it (and its associated condos, would be in a state of panic at this I was surprised and disturbed the Rocky Mountain elk. While apartments and parking lots) to hear several speakers at the last individuals of these subspecies point if I lived downtown. north of 580, so it does not de- And then I was thinking about Livermore City Council meeting can vary in size depending on stroy the character of downtown. proclaim that BART was coming gender, age, health and resources, the incentive to do anything to Build the BART station and its the house. It would seem to be a to downtown Livermore because elk are generally two to three associated “village” at Isabel, of the new Regional Theater. This times larger than mule deer. waste of money. Bart won't be where BART already owns the built for about 20 years, but if is, of course, completely false. Elk, also known as Wapiti, land, and the cost in dollars, con- In the first place, the theater roamed over much of California you planned to live in the house struction and lost homes is lowest the rest of your life and knew you will be completed and operating for thousands of years. Tule of all the proposed sites. many years before BART breaks elk ranged from Shasta County wouldn't get any returns, it would The council thinks nobody be terrible. And what about want- ground on its planned extension south, throughout much of the cares what they do to our city. to Livermore. ing to take an equity line of credit Central Valley and west to the Tell them that we do care. Second, according to LVPAC to send your children to college. coast. However, by the early The bank would know that your estimates, no more than 10 per- cent of the theater's audience is 1800s, elk numbers were begin- home is of less value due to Yes to Regional Theater ning to decline. Bart coming. Maryann Brent likely to utilize BART. Livermore The primary purpose of the Initially elk were taken by What is more important in non-native people for their hides our lives other than our family Do we want a regional theater downtown Livermore BART but our homes. It just breaks my in Livermore or not? Predictions station is to provide city resi- heart. Bart must not destroy of enhanced property value, dents, particularly those who the hopes and dreams of its increased tax revenues, a more live in the downtown, with easy citizens. diverse mix of downtown busi- access to the entire Bay Area. nesses and new jobs seem like And, of course, the downtown/ welcome assets for our city. Af- Vasco route is, of all the pro- Big Thank You ter weighing the probable good posed routes, the only one that R. Jo Molz against the risks, I say “yes” to will qualify for Federal funding Executive Director for the regional theater. You know, - without which, no extension can “Blankets For Kids” being born is risky too. be built to Livermore. To all “Blanket For Kids” (a 501©(3) foundation) volunteers and contributors: SCIENTISTS unteers. circulation. Another time, he The teachers share their peda- The Livermore school district might lead a project on student- gogical skills with the scientists, was given the opportunity to join built electric motors. so they know to ask questions in a the program because Livermore Some of the scientists in class, solicit feedback, and make scientists who were teaching in TOPS have been interested in presentations, said Huber. San Joaquin also wanted to help spreading the partnership concept “This is generating enthusi- out their hometown’s school to other school districts. They asm for science. The students district. made presentations about the know that they are in the real in- Krakowsky retired from creation of pilot projects through dustry of science. They look up to LLNL in 1993, where he had the Institute of Electrical and these scientists as role models,” worked in electronics engineer- Electronics Engineers, which said Huber. ing and administration. He said Krakowsky said is the biggest A new job for TOPS will be to he has always been interested in and most prestigious technical help the school district assemble education. One of his degrees is organization in the world. science kits for third and fourth in psychology, which is a good The institute was interested. graders. The kits are the result background for teaching. However, its management was of a $5000 “Bright Ideas Solar Krakwosky’s partner in the not able to create a nationwide Schools Program” grant from classroom is teacher Terry Green- program that could be main- PG&E, which was announced away. Sometimes Greenaway, tained, said Krakowsky. last week. who has a biology degree, is Pauline Huber, a Livermore The students will be building more advanced in the subject area school district teacher on special solar electric houses, passive so- of the day’s lesson, so he is the assignment, works with TOPS. lar-heated houses and solar race leader. Other times, Krakowsky She said, “The program offers cars. The idea is for students to takes over. a phenomenal opportunity to demonstrate their understanding Krakowsky might lead a class work with the labs and businesses of transforming stored solar en- in a look at a fish’s tail under a around us.” They contribute con- ergy into heat, light and motion, microscope, to teach about blood tent knowledge to courses. said Huber.

ART PLEASANTON (continued from page one) (continued from page one) government is financed will be generous. Now they are giving out there. It is not a comfortable up for discussion. He stated, “I the city an opportunity to par- position to tell people what you anticipate unparalleled public ticipate. Their efforts enrich our will do for them and not know input and discussion.” community.” how you will do it.” SCHOOL TRUSTEES PCAF CHECK Cook-Kallio said there are a In a first, the council recog- The Pleasanton Cultural Arts lot of challenges facing Pleasan- nized and thanked retiring Pleas- Foundation (PCAF) presented ton over the next four years. The anton school district trustees. Pat its final check to the city at the main issue will be the economy. Kernan and Jim Ott are leaving council meeting. In a more reflective mood, the board. PCAF was created to support- Cook-Kallio said, You all know Kernen stated, “The 5 to 0 ing the building of the Firehouse the toll this takes on your fami- council votes on every school Arts Center. Bill Butler, president lies. It means sometimes that the issue demonstrates your support of the PCAF Board, declared, family takes a back seat to what for the district. It’s a great com- “We have completed our mission you do for others.” munity. In these tough times, we and are winding down. With the Thorne declared, “It’s time to will have to work more closely Firehouse, we have a real gem in get busy. There are a number of together to accomplish things.” our downtown.” opportunities and challenges fac- Ott stated, “What makes PCAF has collected a lit- ing us in the next couple of years Pleasanton a great community is tle over $2 million in pledges. that will be unprecedented in our the partnership between the city Checks for $750,000 have been history.” They will be impacted and the district.” He predicted presented to the city. On Tues- by the state of the economy and there will be tough decisions to day, a check for $120,000 was the decline in the belief in gov- be made in the next few years donated. Butler noted, “Pledges ernment in general. He added that about investing in schools. He will continue to be collected.” He he thinks that long held beliefs declared, “Investing in schools encouraged people to continue to on how local government ac- today helps not having to invest donate to the facility. complishes things and how local in prisons in the future.” PAGE 6 - The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010

The Livermore Rec-Plus Fusion Gunners U10 Boys were the Sam Frost of the Pleasanton Rage U12 Orange Premier team takes champions of the Sunset Cup Tournament in Livermore this The Livermore Lasers U10G rec-plus finished an incredible one of several corner kicks. Photo - Kevin Donahue past weekend. This was the icing on the cake for the Gunners season with a second place finish in the Sunset Tournament. who have had an overall season record of 22 wins, 0 loses, The Lasers finished first place in their league and made it to 0 ties. This is a season these boys and coaches will never the playoffs in all three tournaments they played, winning one forget. Pictured are (front left to right) James Renouf, Zachary and coming in third in the other. Pictured are: (back row) coach Hollingshaus, Zachary Parodi, Noah Rakestraw, Logan Hartrum, Deana Bartolotto, Caroline Eckel, Emma Hyde, Lindsay Harnish, Branden Trevethan (back left to right) Assistant Coach Dean Caitlyn Quartaroli, and coach Eric Harnish; (front row) Kalea Shepherd, Dominic Shepherd, Jared Tavares, Roberto Iacomini, Bartolotto, Alexah Nava, Lindsey Warren, Haylee Kramar, and Thomas Knierieme, Drew Marples, Cameron Meier and Head Madeline Koning. Not pictured are team members Abby Harnish Coach Mario Iacomini. and Grace Groeniger.

Youth Soccer Wiederecht, Jackson Still, Ryan Racer and Chau and Bailey Sanchez. Top Offensive the strength of Ariana Nino kept the SCA in The Pleasanton Ballistic United Soccer Sam Molz. Carsen Paynter and Nima Habibi Players: Gaby Cabrera, Amanda Chun and check most of the game, when the ball did Club (BUSC) U13 Premier team ended kept the pressure on up top. Erin Overland Avery Jones and Jazmin come too close to the Rage's 18 yard box, league play on Sunday with a hard fought 2 to Merchant Megan Shackley; Top Defensive goalie Juliet Allen was there with several 1 victory over the visiting Rays 97. Ballistic Pleasanton Rage Grey Division 3 U13 Players: Megan Shackley, Miranda Spring, spectacular saves. The 2nd goal was a team scored first when Nick Tucker lobbed a free played in a regional State Cup qualifier Alyssa Chau and Bailey Sanchez goalie effort starting with a cross by Sara Broacha, kick into the top of the area that was headed match against MSC Top Gun from Folsom, Dalia Shafi. a rebound off the post by Megan Von Sosen, into the air by a Rays defender. Cameron in Davis on Saturday, coming away with and an opportunity to pick up another goal Ritchie was in position to clean up the volley a 3 to 1 victory. Rage scoring was led by In a must win game the Pleasanton by Sam Frost who seized the moment and into the back of the net. Megan Shackley who connected on a 50 Rage U12 Orange Premier team pulled scored again. The Rays tied the game before the end of yard free kick from just inside the midline together to accomplish their goal beating the first half. Ballistic's game winning goal with a deflection assist from Erin Overland. SCA 2-0. The first half started with a fantastic Livermore Fusion SC's under 12 came when Chudi Atuegbu switched the ball Adding to the scoring for Rage were forwards goal from forward Sam Frost who placed maroon team secured second place in the into the area and Cameron Ownen's shot was Avery Jones and Jazmin Merchant who each the ball perfectly over the goalie's head. Norcal Soccer's fall league with a 1-1 tie of deflected off the keeper, only to have Mitchell added a goal. The Rage controlled the better part of the the Mill Valley Rockers. Fusion scored soon Wilson collect the trash and score. Precise passing by midfielders Gaby first half; Jordyn Salinas was tough as nails after the kickoff when Amy Moussa delivered As usual, a great team effort with amaz- Cabrera, Amanda Chun and Erin Overland and passed beautifully throughout, while a long throw-in to the mouth of the Rockers' Tri-Valley Aquatics 10 and under medley relay team included ing saves by Ballistic keeper Omeed Ziari, set up many of the scoring opportunities. De- Hunter Vice and Mia Banducci did a great goal. Laura Duterte put her right foot on Amber Fornoles, Claire Suen, Meghan Hogue, and Courtney and standout defensive efforts by Jeffrey Klei, fense was led by their goalie Dalia Shafi who job of controlling the midfield. the ball and knocked it past the keeper. The Nick Tucker, Max Gershman and Tylor Silva. stopped numerous hard shots and defenders, On defense the awesome speed of Sadie teams played defensively for the remainder Lau. The midfield was well controlled by Geoffrey Megan Shackley, Miranda Spring, Alyssa Gozier, quick reactions of Rachel Rice, and The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010 - PAGE 7

participated in 16 of the finals races later in tryouts. More information on the website which includes Holiday Classic T-shirts for the afternoon. Congratulations to TVA’s 2010 eteamz.com/lnll or call 443-5655 the team. Each team plays a minimum of Winter JO Team: Hannah Bergh, Connor three games. Daly, Jonathan Feldman, Amber Fornoles, The tournament will feature a snack bar, Thomas Gjerde, Meghan Hogue, Chris Grizzlies Baseball and admission for spectators is $3 for adults Jhong, Courtney Lau, Jason Lau, Tyler Lu, NorCal Grizzlies Baseball is now holding and free to those younger than 18. The Robert Jordan Reznick, and Claire Suen. evaluations for positions on the 2011 spring Livermore Community Center is located at Finalists included: Hannah Bergh (14) 4444 East Ave., Livermore. Registration – 100 Free, 200 Free, 1650 Free; Connor tournament teams - ages 9U through 14U. Evaluations take place at the indoor forms are available on the Youth Sports page Daly (12) – 200 Free, 50 Back, 100 Back, of the LARPD website. For more informa- 200 Back, 100 IM, 200 IM, Connor had training facility in Livermore. Teams will compete in 14 tournaments tion, contact Michael Sa at 925-373-5733 or to swim his 200 free 3 times in one day: [email protected]. Prelims where he tied for the last spot in beginning in February and ending in July. finals, a swim-off which he won to get into Practices are twice a week during the eve- finals, and the finals swim; Chris Jhong (10) nings. Sessions will be conducted by both – 100 Free, 200 Free, 100 Back, 50 Breast, individual team coaches and other instructors Bowling News 100 Breast, 100 Fly, 100 IM, 200 IM; Jason covering all aspects of the game. Duane Moschetti bowled a 771 series Lau (12) – 50 Fly. For additional information, contact Tom in the Practice Kings & Queens league with Best Times included: Hannah Bergh Graham at 922-5050 or tomg@norcalgriz- games of 266-227-278 (135 pins over series – 100 Free, 200 Free, 200 IM; Connor Daly zlies.org or visit www.norcalgrizzlies.org. average) at the Granada Bowl in Livermore. – 200 Free, 50 Back, 100 Back, 200 Back, Also Mark McCreary shot 812 (134 pins over 100 IM, 200 IM; Jonathan Feldman (14) – 50 average) with games of 266-299-247 in the Free, 100 Free, 100 Fly; Amber Fornoles (10) Cheyenne league last Friday. – 50 Breast; Thomas Gjerde (13) – 50 Free; Baseball Camp Jeremy Stuber bowled a 279 game (75 Meghan Hogue (10) – 50 Back, 50 Breast; Livermore High Varsity Baseball Coach over) in the Generation Gap. Gerald Cain Chris Jhong – 100 Free, 200 Free, 100 Back, David Perotti is hosting a winter baseball rolled 110 over series with games of 247- 50 Breast, 100 Breast, 100 Fly, 100 IM, 200 camp on December 20-22. Each camper will 258-193 in the Tues. Match Point. Also Clint IM; Jason Lau – 50 Free, 50 Fly, 100 Fly, receive individual instruction from coaches McFaddin bowled a 241 game, Joe Lemke 200 IM; Tyler Lu (10) – 50 Free; Claire Suen and Livermore High players, a snack each (8) – 50 Back, 50 Free a 230 and Dustin Wade a 228 game. Gil day and a camp shirt. The 5-12 year old Criste bowled 269 in the 4 Seasons Mod. New Team Records included: Connor camp costs $125 and runs from 9:00-12:00 Daly – 200 Free, 50 Back, 100 Back, 200 Guys & Dolls, Nick Block a 268, Maria Back, 100 IM, 200 IM; Jonathan Feldman everyday. If you sign up before December Lockridge 267, Dave Drab 258 and Alex – 100 Free, 100 Fly; Meghan Hogue – 50 15th (post marked), pay only $105. The Holland a 248. Joe Delise bowled 278 in Breast; Chris Jhong – 100 Free, 200 Free, camp is being held at Livermore High Var- the Cheyenne league. 100 Back, 50 Breast, 100 Breast, 100 Fly, sity Field. For more info to sign up please Senior bowler, Dorothy Poorman rolled 100 IM, 200 IM; Jason Lau – 50 Fly, 100 contact David Perotti at (925) 586-2811 or 78 pins over average for a 208 game in the Fly; Claire Suen – 50 Back, 50 Free; Lee [email protected] or check website Monday Primetimers. Mike Miller bowled Evan - 50 Back www.eteamz.com/lvb 233, Horold Hunt 229, and Frank Cerros Tri Valley also swam 14 relays. Relay- a 222 game. Linda Helbacka bowled 50 only Swimmers included: Free 10-U Girls over average for a 194 game in the Sirs & – Maddy Foster, Tessie Scavone; 11-12 Girls Youth Basketball League Sirettes league. – Olivia Cano, Emily Chong, Sophia Krafcik, Registration is now open for Lay-Ups - a Annika Landreth, Hannah Tsui; 13-14 Girls youth basketball program offering leagues for – Shelby Diehl, Alex Torrez, Katie Tsui; 10-U children in kindergarten through 2nd grade. PGSL Registration Boys – Mattias Blanco, Cole Reznick; 11-12 The 8-week season begins Jan. 22, 2011. Boys – Timmy Lau, JJ Nelson; 13-14 Boys 2011 Registration is now open for There are several locations available. Lay- all divisions in the Pleasanton Phantom Junction Avenue – Kyle Chong, Evan Lee, Caleb Wagner. The Ups is an introductory and non-competitive Girls Softball League. All girls living in 10-U Boys placed Top 8 in both their 200 basketball program. All the components of Free and 200 Medley Relays. Pleasanton , Dublin and Sunol are eligible the program are geared toward making each to play. Two ways to register: 1) Online participant feel successful. The players use at www.pleasantonsoftball.org; 2) Mail- smaller, age-appropriate sized basketballs. in: PGSL, P.O. Box 911, Pleasanton, CA Futsal Club Takes Off Livermore Aquacowboys The hoops are lowered to 8'. The games 94566 (download a registration form from The Livermore Aquacowboys had 15 are played 4-on-4 so each player has more the website). Late fee of $25 applied after By Patricia Koning swimmers qualify individually for the meet opportunity to touch the ball. The registra- 11/30/10. For more information or ques- and another 21 swimmers participated in tion fee is $95, which includes the 8-week tions, email Christine Tanis at christine.t@ When Junction Avenue K-8 the relays in the 14 and Under Winter Junior season, a Lay-Ups t-shirt, and a Lay-Ups pleasantonsoftball.org. teacher Robert Bell decided to Olympics held in Pleasanton Dec. 3-5 basketball. Register on-line at www.Lay- The Livermore Aquacowboy swimmers start an afterschool Futsal Club, Ups.com, or call (503) 799-9293 for further Player Evaluations and Tryouts: in individual events were Sydney Magann, information. Players in the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, & he was hoping that 15 or 20 kids Sarah Swanson, Brianna Reynolds, Allie 8th grades, please read the following infor- might join. Instead, over 100 kids Clark, Taylor Brennan, Haley Hamza, mation carefully: In an effort to continue to Katie Kulp, Cat Elliott, Shahini Ananth, Fastpitch Try-outs improve our players’ experience, PGSL will showed up for the first meeting. Matthew Hayes, Alexander Gonzalez and Lady Hustle will be holding try-outs be holding Player Evaluation Sessions for “I was absolutely thrilled, Trent Trump. for their 18 Gold, 18A, 16A and two 14A ALL players in 3rd, 4th, 5th & 6th grades. LAC scored the most team points ever especially that a third of the stu- softball teams on December 4th and 5th from Attending a player evaluation session is earning the team its highest placement in the 9am-2pm. Try-outs will be held at Robertson mandatory for all players. Following dents turning out are girls,” says standings. Trent Trump was the 2nd place Park and Double Diamond Sports Academy those evaluations, we will have tryouts for Bell, who teaches third grade in finisher in 13 and 14 boys high point stand- in Livermore. Please go to www.ladyhustle- our “Black” Divisions. The goal for these ings. Katie Kulp was the 4th place finisher fastpitch.com to register and obtain more sessions is two-fold: 1) to make sure all the dual-immersion program. in the 13 and 14 girls high point standings. information. Any questions, you may call players are assigned to the correct level of “We have a large Latino popu- LAC had four individual finalists in a total Teresa Borchard 925-785-0846. play for their skill level and experience and of 19 events: Haley Hamza, Katie Kulp, lation with a lot of passion for 2) to balance the teams in each age group to Alex Gonzalez, and Trent Trump. the best of our ability to balance competition soccer. Futsal, which is a lot like New Best Times were achieved by Sarah Bocce Kits for Rent and maximize everyone’s enjoyment. For soccer, is a healthy, inclusive Swanson, Allie Clark, Haley Hamza, Katie Following the debut of two new bocce 7th & 8th grade players, there will not be a Kulp, Cat Elliott, Matthew Hayes, Alexander courts at the freshly renovated Bothwell Player Evaluation Sessions this year. There sport that’s easy to play.” Gonzalez and Trent Trump. Park, the Livermore Area Recreation and will be Black Division Tryouts for those Bell learned about futsal last Park District is now making bocce ball kits wishing to be considered for that division. year when his 10-year-old son California Gymnastics available for rent to the public. All Player Evaluation Sessions and Black California Gymnastics Academy team Bocce ball kits can be checked out for a Division Tryouts (all age groups) will be held played it in the off season from week at a time from the Robert Livermore in January 2011. Additional information and was one of the top teams at the NorCal Community Center. The kits are available at soccer. He joined an adult team Level 5 State Womens' Gymnastics Cham- a detailed schedule for all of these sessions the front counter from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. will be posted on the league web site in mid- and was hooked. pionships. Monday through Friday. Level 5 finished in second place out Rental for one week is $20, plus a $40 December (www.pleasantonsoftball.org). Futsal is essentially indoor of 49 teams. refundable deposit by credit card or cash – a soccer without walls. Played on Results: Rachel Slywester: 10G All- total of $60. The $40 deposit is refundable if Around Champion with a score of 37.35; equipment is returned in good condition. Kits a basketball-sized court, the ball Uneven Bars (9.4) and Floor Exercise (9.45) are rented on a first-come, first-served basis; Pit Bills Perfect moves quickly because of the Champion; 3rd Place on NorCal Level 5 Team reservations are not available in advance. hard surface. Futsal is played (Top six regardless of age division) Rental of a bocce ball kit does not guarantee At Home Emily Balicanta: 10D State All-Around a bocce ball court will be available. East Bay Pit Bulls Basketball with five players on each side. Champion with a score of 37.225; Balance The Robert Livermore Community Cen- “I think futsal is more fun for Beam (9.6) Champion ter is located at 4444 East Ave., Livermore. continued its perfect home win- the kids than soccer,” says Bell. Naomi Chin: 9B State All-Around Bothwell Park is located at 2466 Eighth ning streak with a come from Champion with a score of 36.7; Vault (9.025) St., Livermore. For more information, call behind, 92-87 win over one of “Because of the smaller field and Balance Beam (9.3) Champion 925-373-5700. the top power ranked teams in the of play, each player comes into Jasmyn Cheng: 10C State All-Around Champion with a score of 36.6; Balance ABA, Sacramento Heatwave. contact with the ball more often. Photos - Doug Jorgensen Beam (9.125) and Floor Exercise (9.5) Lacrosse Coach The Pit Bulls had all 5 starters There are more dribbles, passes, Champion Granada High School is looking for a Students in both photos practice their skills at playing futsal. Katie Heckart: 10G 4th Place AA, head varsity boys lacrosse coach. Please in double figures, led by Mario and goals. Many of the greatest Vault, Floorl Baylee Hill: 12C 5th AA; contact Clark Conover AD cconover@ Malave with 20 points and 15 soccer players in the world, like Chloe McGlynn: 12C 9th AA; Maya Frank: lvjusd.k12.ca.us or call 925-606-4800. rebounds, Kevan Martone with Elementary School. 9A 5th AA Messi and Ronaldhino, honed tendent Kelly Bowers purchased 17 and 7 and Jordan Boreman Futsal can be played indoors a T-shirt and the Junction Parent LEVEL 6 STATE MEET their skills at futsal.” Nicole Delfino: Jr D State All-Around Basketball Tournament filing up the stat sheet with 14 After trying to hold Futsal or outside—all that’s really nec- Teacher Association (PTA) is Champion with a score of 37.20; Uneven Bars This December will mark the fifth an- points, 5 assists 7 rebounds and essary are goals and a delineated considering paying for the stain (9.5) and Floor Exercise (9.475) Champion, nual year for the Holiday Classic Basketball Club with 100 kids, Bell split 5th place on NorCal Level 5 State Team (Top Tournament, organized by the Livermore 2 steals. the club into three groups—el- field of play. That low cost is and goals. The PTA also may six regardless of age division) Area Recreation and Park District. The The next Pit Bulls home game ementary school girls, elemen- important to Bell. “This is a hold a future fundraiser specific tournament is scheduled for Dec. 17 to 23 is Thursday, December 9 at 7 low-income school,” he says. in the gymnasium at the Robert Livermore tary school boys, and middle to the Futsal Club. All Valley Divers Community Center. p.m. The team plays its home school—with each meeting on a “Many of our families can’t af- The court would be complete, All Valley Divers went to Mission Viejo The event is open to youth basketball games at Las Positas College, ford indoor soccer clubs.” says Bell, with a surface designed to compete in the Chris Vonk Memorial teams from third to seventh grades, broken 3000 Campus Hill Drive, Liver- different day. About 90 students Diving Invitational on Dec. 3 to 5. Here is down into two tournaments. One tournament have been consistently attend- Right now the club is impro- for futsal. At $20,000, this goal how they did: will be held Dec. 17, 18 and 20 for boys and more. vising with makeshift plastic Nicolette Culver, 8 -9 girls 1 meter Nov- girls in third through fifth grades. The second ing. is beyond the reach of the PTO th Go to the website www.east- ice 67.00, 17 place; Darby Culver, 9 under tournament will be Dec. 21, 22 and 23 for goals and cones to define the th baypitbulls.com or send an email “We love this club,” says or grass roots fundraising, so boys 1 meter JO 96.10, 6 place; 8-9 boys 3 boys and girls in sixth and seventh grades. court boundaries. Bell hopes to he’s pursuing grants. “I’d like to meter Novice, 86.75, 3rd place; Annemarie [email protected] Junction principal Jamal Fields. th Team registration is due by 5 p.m. Hancock, 9 under girls 1 meter JO, 95.65, 8 Monday, Dec. 13. Registration is $215, to purchase tickets. “It’s good exercise and fun, plus create a more formal futsal court create something that the whole place; 7 under girls 3 meter Novice, 51.50, it’s a great way to bring students with goals, benches, nets, and a community can enjoy,” he says. 3rd place; Jackson Gabler, 11 under boys 1 stained surface, which would run “Maybe one day we’ll have adult meter JO, 136.50, 12th place, 10 – 11 boys together and help them connect 3 meter Novice, 130.00, 2nd place; to the school.” about $5,000 including equip- games on the weekends and a Anatoly Nazarov, 11 under boys platform ment and labor. futsal little league.” JO, 131.35, 7th place; 11 under boys 1 meter Assistant Superintendent JO, 182.75, 3rd place; 11 under boys 3 meter Cindy Alba comments that the An initial fundraiser selling Anyone interested in learning JO, 182.85, 3rd place; Lottie Goddard, 11 Futsal Club will help build a Futsal Club t-shirts has generated more about Junction’s Futsal under girls platform JO, 128.75, 5th place; 11 about $250 in profit. The project Club can contact the school at under girls 1 meter JO, 164.75, 3rd place; 11 sense of community at Junction, Under girls 3 meter JO, 169.80, 5th place which became a K-8 school last has generated a lot of inter- 925-606-4720. Anthony Epshteyn, 12 – 13 boys 1 est—Livermore School Superin- meter JO, 188.15, 6th place; 12 – 13 boys 3 year after the closure of Portola meter JO, 200.30, 8th place; Haley Brott, 14 – 15 girls platform JO, 152.90, 14th place; 14 – 15 girls 1 meter JO, 231.55, 18th place; of the game with Stevie Sobers aggressively the mentally and physically tough St. Isidore, fered at the Valley Rock Gym, operated by 14 – 15 girls 3 meter JO, 234.60, 19th place; intercepting Rockers' passes into Fusion's Colton and Andy were high scorers with the Livermore Area Recreation and Park Melissa Parker, 16 – 18 girls 1 meter JO, backfield. After a foul was called just outside eight and six points respectively, while Jake District. The Holiday Climbing Camp offers 283.00, 16th place; 16 – 18 girls 3 meter JO, the 18-yard line, the Rockers tied the score and Michael showed hustle on the defense. participants a chance to try out the gym at 294.80, 12th place late in the game with a fine free kick lofted SM/SC more than made up for their lack a time when it is not open to the public, so over the arms of Fusion's keeper. Fusion of hoops with optimism and perseverance, campers will have the indoor rock walls all continues play in late January with the final and offensively Brandon Harvey scored four to themselves. LNLL Registration points while Xavier Pelican and Logan Finch Livermore National Little League is rounds of the Norcal State Cup. each nabbed two. On defense, Forest Bishop Rock gym staff will provide formal group instruction that focuses on movement, having a walk-in registration on Dec. 9 at showed his mettle with four steals and two Mt. Mikes Pizza on Vasco Rd. from 6:30pm- rebounds in the first half alone, while Brandon technique, belaying, equipment and knots. CYO Basketball There will be a 15-minute break each day, so 8:00pm. This is the final registration before St. Michael's/St. Charles (SM/SC) 6th Harvey demonstrated defensive toughness and agility with five rebounds and three campers are encouraged to bring a snack. grade Spartans CYO team #604 lost to steals for Club Penguin. The four-day Holiday Climbing Camp is Catholic Community of Pleasanotn (CCOP) • • • open to ages 7 to 14 and costs $115, including #601 20-16 in a hard fought CYO basketball SM/SC 408 Gladiators took on St. equipment rental. Camp will be held from 1 game Sunday afternoon. The Spartans were Isidore 404 (6-22). Jonathan Nguyen and to 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 20, through Thursday, down 8-18 at the end of the 3rd quarter but Nathan Findley scored for the Gladiators, Dec. 23, at Valley Rock Gym, 2455 Railroad outscored their opponents 8 to 2 in the final while Jonathan Mulrooney and Wyatt Ave., Livermore. To register for the camp, quarter led by the hard playing of Patrick Moseley played great defense. However, St. Schwartz, who scored 6 points and pulled call 925-373-5700 or visit www.larpd.dst. Isidore's Liam Vettire and his teamates were ca.us. Register by Dec. 13 to ensure a spot down 5 rebounds during the game. Kavan determined and eventually won 22-6. Bagatelos added 4 points and had 2 steals in the camp. with PJ Kalcic fought hard with 3 steals and • • • strong defense. The 1st/2nd grade CYO SM/SC girls • • • played an energized game today. Monarchs Tri-Valley Aquatics The 5th Grade Boys St. Isidore's Team Top Players: Sonia Fletcher, Erin Schrader, Tri-Valley Aquatics's swimmers stepped 522 defeated SM/SC Lightning Bolts, 33- and Karlie Geissbuhler; Shooting Sharks Top up their game this past weekend at the Pa- 14. The Lightening Bolts played a strong Players: Camille Wigginton, Wyatt Nostrand cific Swimming 14-under Junior Olympics game and, showing significant improvement. and Haiden Arruda. Championships, sending 12 swimmers with Junior Saulovich was the high scorer with • • • individual events to the meet. They swam a 8 points and the leading rebounder with 6. The SM/SC 1st/2nd grade 2BN4 War- total of 60 races setting 22 new team records Devin Dominick and Francis Contarciego riors played the 2BN1 Dominators. For the with 31 new personal best times. After a each scored 2 points. Alex Gonzalez scored Warriors, Brandon Pillon was an aggressive bunch of tough morning races, 4 swimmers the first basket of his career. Joey Stangl rebounder. Brendan Paterson battled tough collected 5 rebounds and Trevor Kerby 4 defensively and Dylan Cole was quick with rebounds. Raymond Borden played a terrific many steals. For the Dominators, Max game on offense and defense. Travis Hirbod was the high scorer for the St. Isidore's team. Thorpe attacked the boards and Thomas Carson O'Reilly had 6 steals. McKnight scored many hoops. Reef Swee- • • • ney hustled at both ends of the court. SM/SC CYO 4th grade boys team, aka Club Penguin, hosted St. Isidore. While the score remained close for the first half, Holiday Climbing Camp SM/SC was ultimately defeated 25-8. For Holiday Climbing Camp will be of- PAGE 8 - The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010 County Receives Top Awards Alameda County received in launching the three Fresh Teens gain an understanding of three top awards from the Cali- Start Cafes, said: “These awards the important role of teaching, fornia State Association of Coun- recognize three areas where our and participating seniors learn ties in its annual awards program County has created effective part- in a comfortable setting that for 2010. nerships with other agencies and fosters accomplishment and Alameda County’s New Be- individuals to address important self-esteem. ginnings Initiative for At-Risk needs in our community.” Youth Uprising, located in Youth, a public-private partner- New Beginnings provides a a 25,000-square-foot building ship with the Aramark Corp. much-needed boost in the lives in East Oakland, grew out of food service company, received of at-risk youth – those who challenges faced by Alameda a CSAC Challenge Award. The have been in the juvenile justice County following racial unrest initiative provides paid jobs at system and those who are tran- in 2005 at Oakland’s Castlemont three Fresh Start Cafes to youth sitioning away from foster care High School. County officials who have been in the juvenile – by providing paid jobs and vo- responded by bringing together justice system and foster youth. cational training to prepare them a coalition of community-based Two other County programs for productive lives as adults. organizations that led to the cre- received CSAC Merit Awards. Currently, there are three ation of this one-stop center ad- They are: Fresh Start Cafes: one at the Al- jacent to the school that provides The Teen, Senior and Com- ameda County Recorder’s Office youth and young adults: Com- puter Gadget Connection, a pro- in Oakland, one at the Alameda prehensive health and wellness gram led by the Alameda County County Juvenile Justice Center education, arts and expression, Library that helps local teens in San Leandro and one at the leadership development, and life earn school-required volunteer Castro Valley Library. skills, and career and education credits by teaching seniors basic Officials at the Alameda programs. computer skills. County Library, say the “Com- Today, Youth Uprising in- Youth Uprising, a one-stop puter Gadget Connection” is volves more than 5,100 members center created by Alameda Coun- helping to bridge a generation from eight cities in the county. In ty to provide youth and young gap and providing important surveys of Youth Uprising par- adults with tools in health and skills to people of all ages. ticipants, more than 77 percent Photos - Doug Jorgensen wellness, arts and expression, Teen volunteers in the pro- said the program helped develop Visitors to the annual Holidays in the Vineyards in Livermore Valley Wine Country took care of leadership development, life gram parlay training in library long-term career paths and 81 Christmas shopping, while sampling local vintages. Looking at the crafts in the Wente Vineyards skills and career and education services and basic computers percent felt more hopeful about Estate Winery's barrel room is Lori Burnett. programs. into teaching older adults a wide their lives. “These awards are a gratify- range of computer and internet The $1.8 million program is ing tribute to Alameda County’s skills. The program has become jointly funded by the County and commitment to youth and our so successful that, at any given various philanthropic, individual ongoing efforts to find ways to time, there are up to a dozen donors, and community founda- help young people contribute to trained teens and a waiting list of tions. Weekend Festivities the richness of our community,” seniors wanting their assistance. said Susan S. Muranishi, Alam- eda County Administrator. Light Up the Valley Aki Nakao, Director of Al- Holiday Events Planned ameda County’s General Ser- At Forest Home Farms vices Agency and a key player Relive an old-fashioned holi- Tours at 10am, 11am, 12 noon day by visiting Forest Home & 1pm. Tours are $5 per person Farms Historic Park in December or $8 for both tours taken on the with no admission fee. same day. Saturday, December 11, Saturday, December 18, 10:00am – 2:00pm— Shop for 10:00am – 2:00pm— The Vic- unique gifts from over a dozen torian Glass House Museum artisan vendors at our Holiday will be specially decorated for Market. Enjoy entertainment the holidays and open for tours including sheep dog demonstra- at 10am, 11am, 12 noon & 1pm. tions, carolers and a Victorian Tours are $5 per person Santa. Delicious food will be Forest Home Farms His- available for purchase. The Vic- toric Park is located at 19953 torian Glass House Museum will San Ramon Valley Blvd. in San be specially decorated for the Ramon. holidays. Farm tours are at 11am For more information call and 1pm. Glass House Museum (925) 973-3284.

Photos - Doug Jorgensen The menorah in Livermore was lit last Saturday. In the lower photo, Livermore Mayor Marshall Kamena begins the ceremoney. In the upper photo, those in attendance held lighted candles as part of the event.

Photos - Doug Jorgensen Lights were turned on last Friday at Deacon Dave Rezendes’s home at 352 Hillcrest Ave in Livermore, Casa del Pomba. A candelight procession was held followed by a blessing of the lights. Then the more than 350,000 lights were turned on. Visitors can walk through the display, which is open from 6 pm to 9:30 pm Sunday through Thursday, and 6 pm until 10:30 pm Friday and Saturday. There is no admission charge. All the donations collected in the coin toss, ponds, and at the door are for Santa’s Secret Service. Visit www.casadelpomba.com for more information.

SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF THE SEASON The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010 - PAGE 9

Citizens Police Academy ment puts on two academies per year, Zumba Gold (Fast Fitness); Fit The Livermore Police Depart- spring and fall. for Fifty (Slower Paced Fitness); ment is now accepting applications Yoga; Beginning Line Dancing; In- for its 19th Citizens Police Academy. Laurel Creek Walk termediate Line Dancing; and Gentle The academy will run from February Pleasanton Naturalist Eric Nicho- Exercise (Sittercise). 2, 2011 – May 25, 2011 with a gradua- las will lead wild walk around Laurel For more information on class tion ceremony on May 27, 2011. The Creek on Saturday, December 18 dates and fees, please call (925) academy sessions will be held every from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. This will be 931-5365. Wednesday evening from 6:00 p.m. the first guided hike in this area of to 9:30 p.m. at the Livermore Police Pleasanton. Job's Daughters Department. There will be one day Participants will learn about local There is a youth group for girls long session held on a Saturday or wildlife, plants, habitats, tracking, ages 10-20 right here in Pleasanton, Sunday during the academy. Ap- and much more. Plan to get dirty the Masonic youth group called plicants must be at least eighteen on this trek. Bring water, a sense of Job’s Daughters. It was founded in years of age, live or work in the City adventure, and dress with the weather 1920 to provide an opportunity for of Livermore, not have any prior in mind. Children under the age of young women to work together to felony convictions, and not have had 15 must be accompanied by an adult learn about themselves and to help any misdemeanor convictions within during the entire hike. others. the last three years. There are no Meet at Laurel Creek Park, 5875 Job’s Daughters is open to girls physical requirements, and no costs Laurel Creek Drive in Pleasanton. ages 10 to 20 who have a Masonic involved for the participants. Fee is $6 for residents/$9 for non- Heritage. The Citizen Police Academy residents. For information call, the For 90 years, Job’s Daughters has is a program designed to educate Department of Parks and Community been actively promoting friendship members of our community about Services, 931-5340. and service. The organization was the various roles of the Police founded by Mrs. Ethel T. Wead Mick Department, introduce them to the in Omaha, Nebraska. The group takes law enforcement community, and Nature Programs The Livermore Area Recreation it name from the Book of Job and in give them an inside look at how the particular to a reference in the 42nd department operates on a daily basis. and Park District ranger staff has two Photo - Karen Vizzard programs planned for the upcoming Chapter that says, “And in all the land Participants will be presented with a were no women found so fair as the Sean and Sarah Preston Hesler, walking into Morne Rouge, one of the villages they are serving variety of topics including; patrol op- weekend. The Geminid Meteori Shower Daughters of Job.” in northern Haiti. erations, communications, evidence Meetings follow a long tradition collection, hiring and recruitment, will be the topic of the Sat., Dec. 11 event. Meet Ranger Glen Florey at 8 of order where members learn how traffic, animal control, laws of arrest, to run an efficient meeting and speak search and seizure, investigations, p.m. at the Wetmore Road entrance to Sycamore Grove Park. The Geminid publicly. Meetings are held twice HAITI crime analysis, terrorism, and many a month. Activities and events are others. Each session will be taught shower peaks earlier in the night than peacekeepers had introduced mortality rates are the worst in had still not been delivered to most, so if the skies are clear some planned by the members with the cholera to their country. by a member of the Livermore Police assistance of adult volunteers. the western world. Inadequate the birthing clinic. “It’s just as Department with expertise in the spectacular multi-colored meteors To get past hostile roadblocks will be visible. This program includes Job’s Daughters is an organiza- nutrition and poor hygiene are bare as before,” Sean wrote in field. The sessions are designed so tion dedicated to meeting the needs that were stopping other vehicles widespread. People are gener- an email. that participants get involved ask- about a mile walk into the park to get to the darkest part of the sky. Please of today’s young women and their and sometimes attacking oc- ally too poor to afford medical In addition, medicine has not ing questions and doing hands on challenges of tomorrow. activities. A tour of the Department dress warmly and wear comfortable cupants, they dressed in scrubs help for childbirth or childhood been available to local residents walking shoes. Canceled if raining. There are conventions, mystery and masks to rush a perfectly is included in the first session. trips, mystery dinners, trips to the diseases. Hospitals turn patients during their absence. “This is the In addition to the Wednesday Mistletoe Magic is the topic for healthy volunteer to the hospital Sun., Dec. 12. Meet Ranger Amy zoo and other amusement parks... away who can’t pay up front. brutal irony of violent protests, evening sessions, participants will even Disneyland. by ambulance as if she were a be able to go on a ride-a-long with a Wolitzer at 10 a.m. at the Wetmore Folk medicine is common, with worse than our Haitian friends Road entrance to Sycamore Grove There are also several opportuni- cholera patient. mixed results. had ever seen…driving us out, patrol officer spending several hours ties for scholarships to assist with working the streets of Livermore. Park. A kiss under a sprig of mistletoe The ruse worked to get them A Catholic hospital has a doc- when we’re most needed,” he in a doorway is nice, but a kiss under continuing education. Participants will have an opportu- Job's Daughters also believes past a roadblock where Haitians tor on duty one day a week but added. nity to spend several hours with a mistletoe growing from the boughs of an enormous oak is a magical ex- in community service and special attacked and stoned the bus be- charges too much for many local However, the need remains dispatcher listening in as emergency projects. The national project sup- hind them. They never learned calls are received and dispatched. perience. Join this three-to-four-mile residents. For those who can pay, – the cholera epidemic continues, walk up into the hills of Sycamore ports HIKE (Hearing Impaired Kids what happened to the other bus’s The Saturday or Sunday all day ses- Endowment). Over the last 25 years, a single nurse, not particularly with more than 2,000 deaths. The sion will include time spent on the Grove in search of this strange para- occupants. skilled, is on duty. sitic plant. Along the way, learn about the organizatoin has raised thousands Heslers are determined to stay at firing range where the participants of dollars to provide kids with hearing Sean, a 2002 graduate of For much of their first three least another year. will get to shoot a variety of weapons the natural history of mistletoe as well as its role in folklore and legends. assistance. The 2010 State project was Livermore High School, and weeks in Haiti, Sean did almost Their escape by ambulance deployed by patrol and SWAT team Camp Taylor. It is a summer camp Sarah, from the midwest, were members. The SWAT team and K-9 Canceled if raining heavily. everything except medicine. was hair-raising but just one There is a $5 per vehicle parking for kids with heart disease. Job's newly licensed naturopathic doc- program will each put on extensive Daughters was able to provide enough He drove vehicles, delivered more adventure. They found that demonstrations, and the participants fee. A $2 donation is requested to help tors when they arrived in Haiti in support the programs. Participants backpacks with supplies for this year supplies and served as security the U.S. embassy was actively will be allowed to do role-playing and next year. The 2011 State project late October. They had been in- guard for women at the clinic unhelpful, not only declining with the SWAT team to see what a may call 925-960-2400 for more information. is "Freedom Dogs." It is a program spired to go there by “Mountains with construction workers com- help when they asked for it but SWAT team member might experi- that provides soldiers who have PTSD Beyond Mountains,” the power- ing and going. There were no later demanding lists of petty ence during a critical incident. with service dogs that help them get ful account of Paul Farmer’s Anyone interested in attending the Senior Exercise back to a normal life. physical attacks but plenty of administrative details by repeated spring Citizen Police Academy must efforts to bring medical care to The City of Pleasanton will pres- Girls interested in creating life- comments and catcalls. “There’s telephone calls as they were mak- complete an application by January 7, ent a new roster of exercise classes long friends and reaping many other Haitian poor. not much respect for women ing their escape. 2011. Applications can be obtained in 2011, absorbed from the recent benefits such as developing a strong As students at Southwest Col- there,” he said. By contrast, Chileans and from the kiosk at the Livermore departure of the QUEST program at sense of self-esteem, confidence in Police Department, from the com- lege of Naturopathic Medicine in However, he was able to Uruguayans from a nearby Unit- Las Positas College. public speaking and the ability to un- Tempe, Ariz., the Heslers sought munity section of the department’s Specifically designed for partici- dertake any task, please contact Mrs. practice medicine for one day. ed Nations mission went out of website www.livermorepolice.org, pants aged 50 and up, the following Staci Whitlock at 925-462-7644. out opportunities to provide simi- Others in the Mama Baby Haiti their way to make them safe. or by contacting Sergeant John Hurd classes will begin during the week An informatoin sessoin will be lar kinds of help to the needy in group managed more, including “With all the ups and downs of at (925) 371-4857. of Tuesday, January 4 at the Pleas- held Sunday, December 12th at 2pm Mexico. Both spent hundreds of Each Citizen Police Academy is anton Senior Center, 5353 Sunol at the Pleasanton Masonic Center at delivering four babies. the past weeks, I wouldn’t trade limited to 30 students. The depart- volunteer hours in communities The medicine the Heslers (the experience) for anything,” Boulevard: 3370 Hopyard Rd. south of the border. They would learned in Tempe is not so much he says. “With all the things put word out on the street about the high tech interventionist that could go wrong, and some- a health clinic next day and find medicine taught in conventional times did, I learned a lot about DUI Enforcement Focus in December dozens of kids at the door in the medical schools as the lifestyle myself.” morning. approach practiced in some In the longer term, it may be Through September of this in the fight against driving while then deploy throughout Alameda During medical school, Sean health maintenance organiza- possible for Mama Baby Haiti year, DUI related injury colli- under the influence of alcohol County in search of impaired served two years as president of tions such as Kaiser’s preven- to set up birthing clinics in other sions have increased 36% from and/or drugs.” drivers. This high visibility en-

Naturopaths Without Borders and tive medicine clinics. It seems countries. In the meantime the the same time period in 2009 in The Alameda County “Avoid forcement will include officers received the Outstanding Leader- especially suited for a poverty- the City of Livermore. the 21” Holiday Enforcement patrolling in cities other than need is urgent where they are. Campaign begins December where they are employed. ship Award from his peers. Sarah stricken third world that has no The Heslers hope for more medi- In an effort to stop the increase in DUI collisions and injuries 17th and continues through Janu- If citizens observe a driver was head of the student govern- access to sophisticated equip- cal volunteers. Their operation ment and president of Naturo- caused by those collisions, the ary 2nd. Livermore PD Traffic they suspect may be impaired, ment demanding high levels of needs basic supplies like baby Livermore Police Department Officers will adjust their work they are asked to safely call 911 paths Without Borders at a time maintenance and training. Even blankets, toothbrushes, tooth- when Sean was a director. They will increase its impaired driver hours to be on patrol during the and report their observations. It refrigeration of medicines, taken paste and soap, and nutritional enforcement and education dur- night and early morning hours is important to provide a detailed married last year in Carmel. for granted in most of the U.S., supplements. Money is the most throughout the campaign. description and last known lo- After graduating and obtain- ing the month of December and can’t be assured. versatile because Moma Baby the upcoming holiday season. The Livermore Police Depart- cation of the vehicle. Citizens ing their licenses, they were The naturopathic approach Haiti can apply it to the latest “Our goal is to eliminate ment will host the Avoid the 21 should only follow the suspected hired to head a Haitian birthing emphasizes nutrition and hy- needs. impaired driving within our com- “Strike Night” on the evening impaired driver if they can do clinic that was supposed to be giene, personal care and close Those interested in contribut- munity,” said Sergeant John Hurd of December 17 More than 200 so safely. completed and ready to operate. relationships between doctors (or ing can do so via the website, who supervises the Traffic Unit. law enforcement officers from When they showed up in late Oc- mid-wives) and patients. http://www.mamababyhaiti.org/, “In order to be successful in our across the county will stage in tober, it proved to be still under The Heslers often recommend where they can also learn more efforts to eliminate impaired Livermore to discuss impaired construction as well as waiting multivitamins, especially in the about the organization and its driving in Livermore we need all driving enforcement strategies. for delivery of 40 beds and other face of widespread malnutri- needs. community members to assist us The deputies and officers will furniture and supplies. tion. They practice acupuncture, Their employer is an Oregon which is also supported by many nonprofit midwife organization mainstream medical organiza- called Moma Baby Haiti, which tions, and botanical medicine, offers free medical care in an ef- or herbalism, which is generally fort to lower brutally high rates of not, although botanical chemicals illness and death among pregnant are found in many medicines. Andrew Miland Kappadahl women and infants. They empha- Sean is convinced that natural After a long and hard-fought was physically able, he loved Friday, December 10, 2010 at size natural delivery rather than medicine works and works well, battle with cancer, Andy passed hiking, camping, fly-fishing and 11:00 a.m. at the Dunwoody the Haitian custom of injecting especially in the third world. away in Atlanta, Georgia on De- enjoying the great outdoors. Baptist Church. Andy’s family drugs to force rapid births in Perhaps because nutritional stan- cember 5, 2010 at the age of 71. Andy is survived by his wife, is planning a celebration of his Andy was born on September order to clear crowded birthing dards are so low, perhaps because Linda, a resident of Atlanta, life in Livermore at a date and 23, 1939 in Alameda, California rooms. patients respond positively to the Georgia, his son David Kap- time to be announced this com- first medical attention they have to Miland and Louise Kappadahl. padahl, his daughter, Allison ing Spring. The Moma Baby Haiti model ever received and the doctors He grew up in Livermore, and Kappadahl, his sister, Linda Kap- involves midwives who will care seem genuinely to care about graduated from Livermore High padahl Stedman, his grandson for the mothers and infants for the their welfare, the results can be School in 1957. He served in the Evan Kappadahl, his nephew first six weeks of life. Then the “miraculous,” he says. United States Navy and worked Jason LaVance, his cousins, Matt Heslers will take over. “We’re not Legally, the Heslers are pri- as a civilian in Vietnam and in Silva, Fran Silva, Steven Leal, trained in neonatal care,” Sean mary care doctors licensed in other countries all over the world Christopher Leal, and his aunt, says. “We discuss boundaries the state of Arizona to prescribe as a construction project man- Frances Leal. Andy’s family is with the midwives because some and administer drugs like an- ager. At the time of his death he grieving and we will miss Andy pregnant women have illnesses tibiotics and undertake minor had resided in Atlanta, Georgia very much, however, we take apart from their pregnancies.” surgery. There are restrictions; for the past several years. Over comfort in knowing his suffering The area where the Heslers for example, they can’t prescribe the course of Andy’s life, his is over and he is at peace. work is a cluster of eight villages narcotics. If a patient arrives with career would take him to almost Andy’s wife Linda has planned in the north, near Cap Haitien, serious injuries or a life-threaten- every part of the world, but when a memorial service in Atlanta, Haiti’s second largest city after ing illness, Sean says, they will time allowed for it, and when he Georgia which is scheduled for Port au Prince. Villagers number stabilize and transport the victim about 75,000. They speak Creole, to a hospital – not unlike what which means the Heslers and might happen in a small U.S. other U.S. staff need translators. clinic. The medical challenges are Returning to Haiti on Monday, huge. Haiti’s infant and maternal they found that the furniture PAGE 10 - The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010

Photos - Doug Jorgensen Livermore School of Dance performed “Holiday Treasures From Around The World,” at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore. The evening featured a selection of diversified dance from around the world including holiday, classical, and contemporary styles of dance and music. Performances included jazz, tap, hip hop and lyrical/contemporary styles of dance. Look for more photos on The Independent website, www.independetnews.com

Variety of Fitness Classes Offered Through LARPD Get a jump start on your new sociation of Recreation and Park is $163. Price ranges from $89 to $134. fied Trainer Debbie DeLisle. All viewed on page 29 of the online year’s resolutions by signing up District's Award of Distinction For anyone interested in just Real Fitness Boot Camp is programs are held in the gym- Winter/Spring 2011 Classes & early for fitness classes starting in for Best Innovative Program for a workouts without the added offered for those who don’t have nasium at the Robert Livermore Programs Brochure. The first ses- 2011. The Livermore Area Recre- large district. More than 250 have extras of Livermore’s Biggest much time to fit in a workout Community Center, 4444 East sion starts on Jan. 3. Space is lim- ation and Park District has team participated in the program to get Loser, Real Fitness for Real but still want to get in shape. Ave., Livermore. Participants ited for these popular programs, ed up again with Real Fitness to in shape and get healthy. People is just the thing. These This early morning group work- are encouraged to wear comfort- so early registration is advised. offer a variety of classes to the The Biggest Loser program workouts include both cardio- out will kick-start your day able workout attire and bring a Early registration opens Monday, Livermore community. includes group training, progress vascular and resistance/strength with high-energy cardiovascular towel and water bottle. Non-scuff Dec. 13. Participants may view Livermore’s Biggest Loser tracking, nutritional guidelines, training. This class ideal for those and resistance training. Build athletic shoes only are permitted the brochure and sign up online class, with the slogan “The Road weekly weigh-ins and challeng- who have been in the Biggest strength, gain lean muscle mass in the gym. Locker rooms and at www.larpd.dst.ca.us. Regis- to Wellness, One Step at a Time,” es. The 10-week program meets Loser program for a while or for and get rid of unwanted body fat. shower facilities are available tration is also taken by phone at is back with two available ses- twice weekly and kicks off with anyone who already does some Some level of fitness is highly for use. 925-373-5700 or in person at the sions. The popular program, a weigh-in, body measurements physical activity. The program recommended. Cost is $80-90. Specific dates and times Community Center. which began in April 2009, and “before” photograph. Cost meets twice weekly for 10 weeks. Classes are taught by Certi- of these fitness classes can be received the 2010 California As- LEGAL NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS www.independentnews.com

LEGAL NOTICES is hereby registered by the FICTITIOUS BUSINESS This statement was filed with NOTICE OF PETITION or by your attorney. org Attendance at Networking mon 11 to 3. TVAR at (925) DONATE VEHICLE: RE- following owner(s): NAME STATEMENT the County Clerk of Alameda TO 9.IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR Conference is Non-manda- 803-7043 or visit our website CEIVE $1000 Grocery Cou- FOR INFORMATION Van NGO, 6237 Wade Ct., FILE NO. 445288-455289 on November 23, 2010. Ex- ADMINISTER ESTATE O or a contingent creditor of tory. Specifications regarding at www.tvar.org. pon. Your Choice. Noahs Arc PLACING LEGAL Pleasanton Ca 94588 The following person(s) doing pires November 23, 2015. F: the decedent, you must file the above may be obtained 4)FOUND - No Kill Animal Shelters. NOTICES This business is conducted business as:1)Play The Game The Independent Legal No. VERNA MARIE PAYNE your claim with the court and at the Current Contracting Advance Veterinary Treat- CONTACT BARBARA @ by:an Individual Products, 2)Torture Me Again, 2903. Publish December 9, Case No. VP10539371 mail a copy to the personal Opportunities Internet website FOUND AN ANIMAL? FREE ments. Free Towing, IRS Tax 925 243-8000 The registrant began to 301 Earhart Way, Livermore 16, 23, 30, 2010. 1. To all Heirs, beneficiaries, representative appointed by at www.acgov.org. SECTION. Call Barbara 925 Deductible, Non-Runners. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS transact business under the Ca 94551 is hereby registered creditors, contingent credi- the court within four months 12/9/10 243-8000 to let 33,000 house- 1 - 8 6 6 - 9 1 2 - G I V E . fictitious business name (s) by the following owner(s): STATEMENT OF tors, and persons who may from the date of first issu- CNS-1997930# holds know! (CAL*SCAN) NAME STATEMENT ABANDONMENT FILE NO. 444391 listed above on November CFL International, Inc., 301 otherwise be interested in the ance of letters as provided in The Independent Legal No. AUTOMOTIVE 5, 2010 Earhart Way, Livermore Ca OF USE OF will or estate, or both, of: Probate Code section 9100. 2900. Publish December S E L L Y O U R U S E D The following person(s) do- Call Barbara Signature of Registrant: 94551 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS VERNA MARIE PAYNE The time for filling claims will 9, 2010 10)AUTOS WANTED CAR HERE. ing business as:BR Travel NAME at 925-243-8000 0R www. Services, 211 Wildrose Com- /s/:Van NGO This business is conducted 2.A PETITION FOR PRO- not expire before four months This statement was filed with by:a Corporation FILE NO. 403660 has been filed by: from the hearing date noticed ANIMALS independentnews.com Pay mons #6, Livermore Ca 94551 The following person(s) has BATE the County Clerk of Alameda Registrant has not yet begun STEPHEN ANDREW PAYNE above. by Credit Card for any Clas- is hereby registered by the (have) Abandoned The Use 2) CATS/DOGS on November 5, 2010. Ex- to transact business under in the Superior Court of Cali- 10.YOU MAY EXAMINE the sified or Display ads. following owner(s): of The Fictitious Business for pires November 5, 2015. the fictitious business name fornia, County of Alameda file kept by the court. If you ADOPT A DOG OR CAT, Barbara Ann Roby, 211 Wil- Name: adoption information contact EMPLOYMENT The Independent Legal No. or names listed. County are a person interested in the drose Commons #6, Liver- Wild Smiles, 4200 East Av- Valley Humane Society at 2896. Publish November 25, Signature of Registrant: 3.THE PETITION FOR estate, you may file with the 56) ADULT CARE more Ca 94551 enue Suite 100, Livermore 925 426-8656. December 2, 9, 16, 2010. /s/:Guillermo Iglesias PROBATE of Will and court a This business is conducted Ca 94550 Request for Special CAREGIVERS This statement was filed with for Letters Testamontary (Form DE-154) of NEEDED for elder care. by:an Individual The Fictitious Business Notice Adopt a new best friend: FICTITIOUS BUSINESS the County Clerk of Alameda 4.THE PETITION FOR PRO- the filing of an inventory and TVAR, the Tri-Valley Animal Light housekeeping The registrant began to trans- Name Statement was filed NAME STATEMENT on November 24, 2010. Ex- BATE requests that: STE- appraisal of estate assets or Rescue, offers animals for errands transportation act business under the ficti- on November 19, 2007 in the FILE NO. 445057-445058 pires November 24, 2015. PHEN ANDREW PAYNE be of any petition or account as adoption every Saturday meal prep personal care. tious business name (s) listed The following person(s) doing County of Alameda. The Independent Legal No. appointed as EXECUTOR. provided in Probate Code and Sunday, excluding most Please fax resume above on October 12, 2010 business as:1)Apoyo Re- The Name of the Registrants 2899. Publish December 2, 5.THE PETITION requests the section 1250 holidays. Saturdays from 925 371-8118 Signature of Registrant: search, 2)Apoyo Soft, 4451 are: . 9, 16, 23, 2010. decedent’s will and codicils, if 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, dogs /s/:Barbara Ann Roby Arabian Rd., Livermore Ca Klifford Todd Kapus DDS, A Request for Special No- any, be admitted to probate. form is available from the and cats are available at 60) BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY This statement was filed with 94551 is hereby registered by FICTITIOUS BUSINESS 1476 Maplewood Drive, Liver- tice the Pleasanton Farmers The will and any codicils are court clerk. of out of area the County Clerk of Alameda the following owner(s): NAME STATEMENT more Ca 94551 Market at W. Angela and BE WARY available for examination in 11.Attorney for Petitioner: companies. Check with the on October 28, 2010. Expires Rodin Porrata, 4451 Arabian FILE NO. 444977-444978 Renee Kapus, 1476 Maple- First Streets. Two locations Ralph Kokka (SBN 143519) local Better Business Bureau October 28, 2015. Rd., Livermore Ca 94551 The following person(s) doing wood Drive, Livermore Ca the file kept by the court. will showcase cats only: Chil- Patton Martin & Sullivan, DONATE YOUR CAR: before you send any money The Independent Legal No. This business is conducted business as:1)Jess Catering, 94551 6.THE PETITION requests Petsmart in Dublin noon to 4 dren’s Cancer Fund! Help LLP or fees. Read and understand 2893. Publish November 18, by:an Individual 2)William Jess Caterer, 1568 Signature of Registrant: limited authority be granted and the Pet Food Express in Save A Child’s Life Through 6600 Koll Center Parkway, any contracts before you sign. 25, December 2, 9, 2010. Registrant has not yet begun Cheryl Drive, Livermore Ca /s/:Klifford Todd and Renee to administer the estate under Livermore 1 to 4. Sundays, Research & Support! Free Va- Suite 250 cation Package. Fast, Easy & Shop around for rates. to transact business under 94550 is hereby registered by Kapus the Independent Administra- cats are at Petsmart in Dublin FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Pleasanton, CA 94566 1 to 4, and PetCo in San Ra- Tax Deductible. Call 1-800- the fictitious business name the following owner(s): This statement was filed with tion of Estates Act. (This au- NAME STATEMENT 925 600-1800 252-0615. (CAL*SCAN) FILE NO. 444824 or names listed. William K. Jess, 1568 Cheryl the County Clerk of Alameda thority will allow the personal Signature of Registrant: Drive, Livermore Ca 94550 on December 3, 2010. The representative to take many The following person(s) doing The Independent Legal No. /s/:Rodin Porrata This business is conducted Independent Legal No. 2904. actions without obtaining business as:Sunshine Natural 2901. Publish December 9, Products, 819 Rincon Ave., This statement was filed with by:an Individual Publish December 9, 16, 23, court approval. Before taking Livermore Ca 94551 is hereby the County Clerk of Alameda Registrant has not yet begun 30, 2010. certain very important ac- 16, 23, 2010. registered by the following on November 18, 2010. Ex- to transact business under tions, however, the personal the fictitious business name FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NOTICE OF INVITING BIDS owner(s): pires November 18, 2015. representative will be required Notice is hereby given that or names listed. NAME STATEMENT Maria Lourdes Rodriguez, The Independent Legal No. to give notice to interested sealed competitive bids will 2897. Publish November 25, Signature of Registrant: FILE NO. 445533 persons unless they have 3636 Montrose Pl., Livermore The following person(s) do- be accepted in the office of the December 2, 9, 16, 2010. /s/:William K. Jess waived notice or consented Ca 94551 ing business as:Wild Smiles, GSA-Purchasing Department, This statement was filed with to the proposed action.) The Hector Rodriguez, 3636 4200 East Ave #100, Liver- County of Alameda, 1401 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS the County Clerk of Alameda Independent administration Montrose Pl., Livermore Ca more Ca 94550 is hereby Lakeside Drive, Suite 907, NAME STATEMENT on November 16, 2010. Ex- authority will be granted un- 94551 registered by the following Oakland, CA 94612 NET- FILE NO. 445237 pires November 16, 2015. less an interested person files This business is conducted The following person(s) do- owner(s): WORKING/NORTH COUNTY The Independent Legal No. an objection to the petition by:Husband and wife ing business as:Lizard Patch Tri Valley Orthodontics LLC., BIDDERS CONFERENCE 2902. Publish December 9, and shows good cause why The registrant began to Designs, 5338 Bianca Way, 7605 Mines Road, Livermore RFQ #900794 for 2011 Ford 16, 23, 30, 2010. the court should not grant the transact business under the Livermore Ca 94550 is hereby Ca 94550 Crown Victoria Police Inter- authority. fictitious business name (s) registered by the following FICTITIOUS BUSINESS This business is conducted ceptor, Tuesday, December 7.A HEARING on the petition listed above on September owner(s): NAME STATEMENT by:a Limited liability com- 14, 2010, 10:00 a.m. – Gen- will be held in this court as 20, 1995 Jenny Mostek, 5338 Bianca FILE NO. 445229 pany eral Services Agency, 1401 follows: Signature of Registrant: Way, Livermore Ca 94550 The following person(s) doing The registrant began to Lakeside Drive, Room 906, Date:January 4, 2011 th /s/:Maria Lourdes Rodriguez This business is conducted business as:SusanPrep 1856 transact business under the 9 Floor, Oakland, CA NET- TIME: 9:30am DEPT: 201 This statement was filed with by:an Individual Third St., Livermore Ca 94550 fictitious business name (s) WORKING/SOUTH COUNTY at: the County Clerk of Alameda Registrant has not yet begun is hereby registered by the listed above on December BIDDERS CONFERENCE Superior Court of California, on November 19, 2010. Ex- to transact business under following owner(s): 3, 2010 RFQ #900794 for 2011 Ford County of Alameda pires November 19, 2015. the fictitious business name Susan Larik, 2377 College Signature of Registrant: Crown Victoria Police In- 2120 Martin Luther King, The Independent Legal No. or names listed. Ave., Livermore Ca 94550 /s/:Cynthia Gomez terceptor, Wednesday, De- Jr. Way 2894. Publish November 18, Signature of Registrant: This business is conducted This statement was filed with cember 15, 2010, 2:00 p.m. Berkeley, Ca 94704 25, December 2, 9, 2010. /s/:Jenny Mostek by:an Individual the County Clerk of Alameda – Castro Valley Library, 3600 8.IF YOU OBJECT to the This statement was filed with The registrant began to trans- on December 3, 2010. Ex- Norbridge Avenue, Chabot FICTITIOUS BUSINESS granting of the petition, you the County Clerk of Alameda act business under the ficti- pires December 3, 2015. Room, Castro Valley, CA NAME STATEMENT should appear at the hearing on November 23, 2010. Ex- tious business name (s) listed The Independent Legal No. Responses Due by 2:00 FILE NO. 444688 and state your objections or pires November 23, 2015. above on August 2, 2010 2905. Publish December 9, pm on January 21, 2011 The following person(s) do- file written objections with the The Independent Legal No. Signature of Registrant: 16, 23, 30, 2010. County Contact : Tudor S. ing business as:JC Nails court before the hearing. Your 2898. Publish December 2, /s/:Susan Larik Mosu (510) 208-9614 or via SPA, 4555 Hopyard Rd. Ste appearance may be in person C9, Pleasanton Ca 94588 9, 16, 23, 2010. email: Tudor.Mosu@acgov. The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010 - PAGE 11 LEGAL NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS www.independentnews.com

ALL CASH VENDING 127) LOST/FOUND 165) HOUSE/ROOMS/RENT- SERVICES 181)FINANCIAL SERVICES 185)SCHOOLS/EDUCATION Be Your Own Boss! ROUTE! LOST or FOUND AN ITEM ALS TO SHARE Cash for your 25 Machines + Candy All 177)BUSINESS SERVICES CASH NOW! ATTEND COLLEGE for $9995. Vend3 877-915- FREE SECTION RENT YOUR EMPTY LIV- structures settlement or ONLINE from Home. *Medi- Call Barbara 925 243-8000 ING SPACE. Advertise in ADVERTISE YOUR HOME, annuity payments. cal, *Business, *Paralegal, 8222. All major credit cards property or business for sale accepted. (CAL*SCAN) The Independent and reach Call J.G. Wentworth. *Criminal Justice. Job place- over 33,000 homes and busi- in 240 California newspapers. 1-866-SETTLEMENT ment assistance. Computer LOST KEYS - Livermore Reach over 6 million readers 71) HELP WANTED Area nesses with your message. (1-866-738-8536). available. Financial Aid if for ONLY $550! 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Call Mon-Fri. 1-800-345-6289. planning is the key to an easy transition. (CAL*SCAN) Short moves—within the same or to a nearby town – may be HOME HOLIDAY TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED relatively straightforward. But longer moves require serious con- BOUTIQUE AD COME SHOP sideration of how and when your pet will be transported, and what call Barbara 925 243-8000 SAT Dec 11th 12pm-4pm will happen during the move. or go on-line at 2632 Cowan Way Your home is going to be a tumble of boxes and bubble wrap www.independentnews. Livermore Also available pay by during the final moving days, so you may consider boarding your com GREAT CHRISTMAS Credit Card for Classified and GIFTS! pet with a friend, a pet sitter or at a kennel, where there will be less Display Ads. commotion. 155)NOTICES 72) HELP WANTED/DRIVERS Otherwise, make sure the animal is secure during chaotic periods “NOTICE TO READERS: when doors may be left open. Company Drivers (Solos California law requires that *GREAT & Hazmat Teams) contractors taking jobs that to- Attend to food and water, trying to stick as close to the normal PAY * GREAT MILES * CDL- routine as possible. A Required. We also have tal $500 or more (labor and/or dedicated & regional positions materials) be licensed by the If your pet is traveling with you to your new home, he or she gets available. Call 866-789-8947. Contractors State License “packed” last and “unpacked” first. If your pet is not used to using Swift (CAL*SCAN) Board. State law also requires a crate, introduce him/her to it ahead of time. If you are driving to that contractors include their Company Drivers (Solos license numbers on all adver- your destination and your pet is not used to traveling in a car, practice & Hazmat Teams) *GREAT tising. Check your contractor’s with short trips in the weeks before your move. PAY *GREAT MILES *CDL- status at www.cslb.ca.gov If you are moving far away, consider whether your pet will travel A Required. We also have dedicated & regional positions or 800-321-CSLB (2752). with you or via air cargo. If your pet is going to fly, either with you available. Call: 866-448-1055 Unlicensed persons taking in the cabin or in cargo, make sure you are clear about airline rules SWIFT. (CAL*SCAN) jobs less than $500 must before making reservations. Most airlines will allow very small state in their advertisements REGIONAL CDL DRIVERS that they are not licensed by crated pets and service dogs to travel in the cabin. NEEDED! Gordon Trucking, the Contractors State License Small animals in crates may travel on buses and light rail. Only Inc. Sign on bonus in some Board.” service dogs are allowed on Amtrak. areas! Current Openings on our NCA Fleet. Home weekly REAL ESTATE 2. Put someone in charge. During packing and unpacking, and especially while in transit, available! Consistent Miles & The Federal Fair Housing Act, Time off! Full Benefits, 401k. Title VII of the Civil Rights make sure someone responsible is for watching out for your beloved We have lots of Freight! www. pet. If he/she will be sent via air freight, assign a responsible friend TeamGTI.com 1-888-832- Act of 1964, and state law 6484 EOE. (CAL*SCAN) prohibit advertisements for or family member to drop off and pick up your pet from the airport housing and employment on time. Airlines will only hold onto animals for a few hours before Driver - NEW PAY PLAN that contain any preference, transporting them to a kennel at the owner’s expense. with Quarterly Bonus Incen- limitation or discrimination tive! Lots of freight. Daily or based on protected classes, 3. Investigate rules and regulations. Weekly Pay. Van and Re- including race, color, religion, Different states – even different municipalities – have different frigerated. 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Other states have households/businesses that similar bureaus CLASSIFIEDS receive Horses and ponies coming into California must have a current The Independent know about it. To place an ad go health certificate, including evidence of a negative Equine Infectious ************** Anemia (EIA or “Coggins”) test within 6 months prior to entry. Reaches to www.independentnews. com or call Barbara at Health certificates are recommended for all animals, but are only 33,000 Homes 925 243-8000 required for cats and dogs if coming here from a rabies quarantine Direct mail area. to 160)BOAT/RV and RETAIL LOOKING FOR RETAIL 4. Make an appointment with your veterinarian. Livermore, Dublin, You want to be sure your pet is healthy enough to travel and is Pleasanton & Sunol OR STORAGE SPACE? up-to-date on necessary vaccinations. Get copies of his/her medical Call Barbara Great Location Off Hwy 580 records and ask for a health certificate. 925 243-8000 On Kitty Hawk Road If your pet is going to be shipped by air, discuss with your vet 76)HELP WANTED/SALES For Details Email: [email protected] whether sedation is advised. AVAILABLE TO TRAVEL? 5. Records and identification. Earn Above Average $$$ 162)HOMES FOR SALE If your dog or cat escapes your yard on an adventure, chances are Selling with Fun Successful By advertising with Business Group. No Experi- he/she will return home before mealtime. But if an animal gets loose The Independent while traveling, the chances of being found are greatly diminished. ence Necessary. Paid Train- you reach over 33,000 ing. Lodging, Transportation homes and businesses Many states require dogs, and sometimes cats, to have rabies tags Provided. 1-877-646-5050. affixed to their collars. Your pet should also wear an identification (CAL*SCAN) with your message. To place an ad, call Barbara tag. Birds and lizards should be banded. Carry registration papers MERCHANDISE 925 243-8000 for horses and ponies. 109)EQUIPMENT FOR SALE 6. Creature’s comforts. NEW Norwood SAWMILLS- Dogs and cats traveling by air can be transported in carriers or LumberMate-Pro handles portable kennels. logs 34” diameter, mills “Select a portable air-transport kennel that’s large enough for your boards 28” wide. Automated quick-cycle-sawing increases pet to stand and move around a bit,” advises Allied Van Lines. efficiency up to 40%! www. Smaller animals and birds can be shipped in special shipping con- NorwoodSawmills.com/300N tainers available from pet stores or airline freight departments. (They 1-800-661-7746 ext 300N. can travel in their cages if you are driving to your destination.) (CAL*SCAN) If your pet is traveling by air, give him/her food five to seven hours 115)ESTATE/GARAGE/ YARD SALES before departure and water about two hours in advance. Be sure to arrive at the airport early. Exercise your pet on a lease RAIN OR SHINE! Call Bar- bara 925-243-8000 or go to at the airport and administer any medications or sedatives. www.independentnews. If your pet is traveling with you on a plane, it must be in a small com before 8am Tuesdays carrier that fits under your seat (check with your airline). to get your ad in for the next If your pet is traveling in cargo, make sure a responsible person edition. will be at the pickup point on time. MOVING SALE Birds, fish, turtles, snakes, rabbits, hamsters or gerbils can usually Saturday December 11th, 8:00am to 1:00pm travel via air express. 5388 Carnegie Loop, Liv. Tropical fish should be packed for shipment by pet suppliers. If EVERYTHING MUST GO! that’s not possible, you can transport fish in their aquarium by placing Refrigerator, Ping Pong it in a corrugated carton, padded with crush paper. Remove about Table, TV, Desks ETC. half the water along with any equipment, such as aerators or heaters, that might shift and break the glass. MOVING SALE! 7. Security. SAT 8am-4pm For air travel, make sure the latch on the crate is secure. Attach 1191 Bannock St.. Livermore the lease to the outside of the crate. Label the crate clearly and make Furniture, Refrigerators, sure your pet is wearing an identification tag. Enclosed crates should Washer/Dryer, Table/Chairs, be marked as “Live animal” plus your name, address, phone number TV’s, Beds, Weight/Lifting and any special handling instructions (i.e. “This End Up”). Equipment, Tools, More! If you are driving to your destination, keep your pets on leases 118) FREE/GIVEAWAY outside of the car. Try never to leave them alone, locked in a vehicle. GOT OLD JUNK If you must, park in the shade and crack several windows for cross FREE/GIVEAWAY ventilation. SECTION Call 925 243-8000 Barbara 8. Plan the path to your new home. If you are traveling by car or truck, remove water containers from 120)HEALTH/MISC. crates and cages to avoid spills. Make sure the carriers are fixed in HIP REPLACEMENT SUR- place so they won’t tip or slide around during the drive. GERY: If you had hip re- placement surgery between Don’t allow dogs to put their heads out windows. Don’t lock your 2003 - present and suffered pets in the car without cracking the window. problems requiring a second Plan plenty of stops for exercise and potty breaks. Make sure the revision surgery you may be hotels, motels or camp grounds where you plan to stay allow pets. entitled to compensation. Attorney Charles Johnson 1- If you are camping, bring a stake to attach the lease to. 800-535-5727. (CAL*SCAN) Travel sometimes has an adverse effect on birds. Keep the cage 125)HOUSEHOLD GOODS covered while on the road, so the bird remains calm. Keep strangers, especially children, away from your pets. Even Place your household items here for sale. Call gentle animals can behave unpredictably in unfamiliar surround- 925 243-8000 or go on-line ings. at 9. Helping pets feel at home. www.independentnews.com Your new home will be strange and possibly frightening to your pets. Keep them inside until they are used to their new surroundings. A familiar toy or blanket can help ease fears. Make sure to feed them the same food they are used to, and stick to old routines. Fish will need new water and probably neutralizing chemicals to avoid shock. 10.Finding a new vet. Find a new veterinarian as soon as possible after you have moved. If your previous vet did not give you a recommendation, check with the American Animal Hospital Association at 1-800-2522242 or the Humane Society in your new community. Then you and your pets can happily settle into your new home. Cher Wollard is a Realtor with Prudential California Realty, Livermore. PAGE 12 - The Independent, DECEMBER 9, 2010 Livermore School District Receives Several Grants The Livermore Valley contact Teacher on Special As- $13,000 East Bay Tri-Val- Joint Unified School District signment, Pauline Huben at (925) ley Community Collaborative (LVJUSD) has been proactively 606-3204 or email phuben@ Grant (Career Technical Edu- securing grant funding in order lvjusd.k12.ca.us. cation). LVJUSD has worked to continue to move forward with $250,000 Competitive En- with the Tri-Valley Educational school programs in lean budget hancing Education Through Collaborative (TEC) and been times. LVJUSD has been award- Technology (EETT) Federal awarded start-up funding toward ed the following new grants to Grant to Enhance the Use the development of a viticulture enhance student opportunities in of Data to Improve Student pathway, as an extension of the education: Achievement. LVJUSD has been Livermore High School agricul- $5,000 PG&E Bright Ideas awarded $250,000. It is one of tural science program. The pri- Solar Schools Program Grant. only two districts in Alameda mary goal of the collaborative is The LVJUSD elementary science County to receive this highly to develop a multi-tiered program specialists and TOPScience Part- competitive grant. This grant is that strengthens career explora- ners will work on developing and designed to help the District use tion/awareness and Career and assembling 3rd and 4th grade kits data effectively for college and Technical Education (CTE) path- for inquiry based activities and career readiness by improving ways in high wage, high skill oc- demonstrations. Students will student achievement and clos- cupations for students in middle demonstrate their understand- ing the achievement gap. The school proceeding to high school ing of energy in multiple forms funding will support and expand and on to post secondary educa- including the idea that electrical current district efforts through tion throughout the region. energy from stored and solar the acquisition of state-of-the- For further information on sources can be converted to heat, art technology, curriculum and the East Bay Tri-Valley Com- Bonnie is shown with several of the Old English Baby light and motion. This will entail professional development. munity Collaborative Grant, building of solar electric houses, For further information on contact Director of Curriculum/ passive solar-heated houses and the EETT Competitive Grant, Special Projects, Melinda Hall at Small Sheep Keep Weeds solar racer cars. contact Assistant Superintendent, (925) 606-3202 or email mhall@ For further information on Cindy Alba at (925) 606-3224 or lvjusd.k12.ca.us. the PG& E Bright Ideas Grant, email [email protected]. In Check in Vineyards A small flock of Old English powered electric fence and pro- Using targeted grazing to con- BabyDoll Southdown Sheep tected with a Livestock Guard- trol vegetation in the vineyard is were grazing the weeds in the ian Dog (LGD). Bonnie is an a perfect way to get the job done vineyard at Rodrigue Molyneaux Anatolian/Akbash cross and has without harmful chemicals, fossil Volunteers Can Sign Up to Estate Winery during Holidays been raised with the sheep since fuels, and causing emissions. The in the Vineyards festivities last she was old enough to leave her sheep also work the ground with Take Part in Bird Count weekend. The miniature sheep, mother. As opposed to her fellow their small hooves and fertilize as Batteate Baby Dolls, are a heri- working dogs used for herding, they go. It’s a match that’s made Volunteers are invited to take the Ohlone Audubon Society, and skill level and endurance. The tage breed originating from Eng- the LGD’s job is simply to protect in heaven! part in the second annual Christ- the initiator of the new Christmas count circle is divided into over land from the days before refrig- the sheep. mas bird count in eastern Alam- Bird Count. “We’re very excited two dozen sections, each with eration when a small animal was eda County. with the response and concern a leading birder with specific desired as not to waste meat. The Ohlone Audubon Society from interested citizens.” knowledge of the area. Today, they have found their and the Alameda Creek Alliance Birders and volunteers with To get involved, visit websites place in the vineyard. Because are sponsoring the event on Fri- any level of experience can par- ohloneaudubon.org or www. of their small size (24” at the day, December 17th in eastern ticipate and are assigned to teams alamedacreek.org. shoulder), they are perfectly Alameda County. based on their bird identification suited to graze between the rows The count area is in the vi- and under the vines. They are cinity of Sunol, Pleasanton and contained with a portable, solar Livermore, and includes five East Bay Regional Parks, significant San Francisco watershed lands, and birding hotspots such as lower Mines Road, Sunol Wilder- ness, Del Valle Reservoir, and the Springtown area in Livermore. Rich Cimino, the count com- piler, invites backyard birders to participate by counting bird spe- cies and submitting information to him. He can be contacted at 925-353-0266. The Christmas Bird Count is an annual nationwide volunteer- based bird survey effort coordi- nated by the Audubon Society to promote bird conservation and assess long-term trends in winter bird populations. In the largest citizen science effort in the world, tens of thousands of volunteer birders and scientists armed with binoculars, bird guides and checklists will take part in Christmas bird counts throughout the Americas from mid-December through early January. Audubon and other organizations use data collected in this longest-running wildlife census to assess the health of bird populations and to help guide conservation actions. “Our bird count will involve volunteers, ornithologists, and agency staff in bird conservation and monitoring, and will promote stewardship of bird populations and habitats within the Alameda Creek watershed,” said Rich Cimino, Conservation Chair of THE INDEPENDENT • SECTION II THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 Art, Community, & Education

Paintbrush Diplomacy Opens at the Harrington Art Gallery The Firehouse Arts Center’s Harrington Gallery will host an exhibit of inter- national children’s art, “Celebrations Around the World,” from the permanent collection of Paintbrush Diplomacy. The exhibit will be on view December 11, 2010-January 12, 2011. The Firehouse Arts Center is located at 4444 Railroad Avenue in downtown Pleasanton, Calif. Paintbrush Diplomacy seeks to promote peace and understanding through the universal language of art and encourages awareness of international issues through art exchanges and exhibits of works by children ages 5-18. In conjunction with the exhibit, the Firehouse Arts Center will host Young @ Art for children ages 5 to 11 years on Saturday, December 11, 2010, from 10:00- 11:45 a.m. The children will visit the Harrington Gallery to view the exhibit. They will then go to the Center’s art studio to create an art piece themselves. The fee for the program is $12 for Pleasanton residents and $15 for non-residents. Registrations may be completed at (925) 931-5340 or online at http://online. activecommunities.com/pleasanton, Code 49828. Also complementing the exhibit will be a presentation by Paintbrush Diplo- macy’s executive director, Louise Valeur on Wednesday, December 15, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. She will speak about the organization’s mission to create peace through the paintbrush by facilitating international student exchanges and coordinating a university diplomat program for college students studying abroad. The suggested donation is $5 with student admission free of charge. Harrington Gallery hours are Wednesday-Friday 12:00 noon-5:00 p.m., Saturday 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., or one hour prior to each Firehouse Arts Center performance and during intermission. A donation of $2.00 is suggested. Detailed information about Paintbrush Diplomacy is available at http://paint- brushdiplomacy.org. More information about the Firehouse Arts Center may be found at www. firehouseartscenter.org. Pictured at left is “Global Family” by Shrevashe Chakraborty, age 9, India.

Documentary Film Series to Screen 'Afghan Star' The Pleasanton Library is hosting a series “move people from guns to music.” thor of the critically acclaimed memoir West of documentary films at the new Firehouse However, in a troubled country like of Kabul, East of New York, and the recent Arts Center. Afghanistan, even music is controversial. history of Islam, Destiny Disrupted, has Afghan Star, the final film in the series, Considered sacrilegious by the Mujahid- lived a life in two worlds. “In 1948, when will be screened on Dec. 16. deen and outright banned by the Taliban I was born, most of Afghanistan might as The film begins at 7:00pm. Doors open (1996-2001), music has come to symbolize well have been living in the Neolithic Age. 6:15pm. Seating on first-come, first-served freedom for the youth. While the conflict still It was a world of walled villages, each one basis. rages many of those taking part are literally inhabited by a few large families, themselves After 30 years of war and Taliban-rule, risking their lives. linked in countless ways through intermar- pop culture has returned to Afghanistan. This documentary follows the three riages stretching into the dim historical Afghan Star - a Pop Idol-style TV series – is month process from the regional auditions memories of the eldest elders.” searching the country for the next generation to the final in Kabul. Behind the scenes at Mir Tamim Ansary is an author and com- of music stars. Over 2000 people are audi- all times, we gain unprecedented access to mentator on Afghanistan. tioning and even three women have come the lives of contestants, fans and producers There is no admission charge. The Fire- forward to try their luck. The organizers, alike. house Arts Center is located at 4444 Railroad Tolo TV, believe with this program they can Mir Tamim Ansary, Afghan American au- Avenue, downtown Pleasanton. 2 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 Art & Entertainment

Tiffany’s to Open For the Rockettes By Patricia Koning more recreational classes. They have been On Sunday, Dec. 19, dancers from Tiffa- practicing their routine, choreographed by ny’s Dance Academy (TDA) will have the Tiffany to instrumental holiday music, for opportunity of a lifetime—opening for the the past three months. The TDA dancers are Rockettes’ Radio City Christmas Spectacular the only opening act for the 6:30 pm show in San Jose. A total of 29 dancers will per- on Dec. 19. form, ranging in age from five to 18 years. The opportunity came about after dancers “This is going to be such a wonderful from the TDA Company performed in the experience for these dancers,” says Tif- New York City Dance Alliance competition fany Henderson, co-owner of TDA with her in Santa Clara in March. Joe Lanteri, execu- husband Paul. “This is the biggest audience tive director of the New York City Dance they’ve ever performed before and in the Alliance, has been selecting opening acts largest venue. It’s also good exposure to for Rockettes’ shows at competitions across precision dancing, which is where a lot of the country. Photos - Doug Jorgensen professional dancers work.” On Dec. 6, TDA dancers had another Dancers prepare for their opening number (top photo). In the lower photo, Tiffany The group includes dancers from the TDA unique opportunity when they performed Henderson adjusts the hat of one of the young performers. Performing Company and students from the (See TIFFANY'S, page 4) Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 3

Luedloff’s approach to creating ance depending on the thickness an authentic 19th century Japan is and weight of a slipper.” infused into every feature of pro- No detail will be sacrificed for duction: music, staging, set design, the sake of cultural authenticity. lighting, costuming and even the “We want the audience to feel singers’ individual movements. the indirect, subtle and graceful “We start with Puccini’s won- movement of the people of Naga- derful music which, while very saki in contrast with the impulsive, Italian and romantic, uses idioms confident movement of the hedo- of Japanese music,” explains Lu- nistic American Navy Lieutenant edloff. “We also consider all visual who has entered their world,” adds elements, from the scenic design Nealy. “These subtleties, along to authenticity of costumes. For with the singers’ and orchestral example our performers will wear voices, will tell the tale on another kimonos as they should be worn, level.” one side folding over the other to Puccini’s “Madama Butterfly” create smooth line in movement. will be performed Saturday, March Color and patterns become very 12, 8pm; Sunday, March 13, 2pm; important, particularly for the gei- Saturday, March 19, 8pm; Sunday, sha, whose kimonos represent sta- March 20, 2pm. tus and hierarchy, and our kimonos Pre-opera talks are offered one will reflect that authenticity.” hour prior to each performance. Luedloff will be just as par- Ice Cream & Opera – Children’s ticular concerning the movement Opera Learning Adventure part of of everyone on stage. “The cloth- both Sunday matinees. ing and footwear of 19th century Tickets are available through Japan necessitates a specific kind the Bankhead Theater online at of movement, with limitations in www.livermoreperformingarts. the size of a step a woman might org or on the Livermore Valley be able to take, and a sense of bal- Opera’s website at www.livermo- revalleyopera.com Brian Clay Luedloff works with an opera singer. A Rare 'Butterfly,' Fresh Approach by LVO’s Director Luedloff

‘Tis the season for butterflies formances with the Metropolitan - “Madama Butterfly” that is. Opera and San Francisco Opera, Puccini’s ever-popular and tragic who first suggested Brian Luedloff love story of a U.S. Naval officer to direct. and a Japanese Geisha seems to be “As a director, he is able to get the “production du jour” as many the artists to become their charac- companies are performing it this ters,” explains Mills. “He is kind, opera season. Livermore Valley thorough, and very respectful of Opera (LVO) is no different in that the music. It is a rare stage director respect, as this emerging regional who can get what he wants without opera company, now in its 19th sea- the singers even knowing it’s his son, will bring it to the Bankhead idea. They think it’s their idea. It Theater this March. all works toward a more integrated “Madama Butterfly” is a staple production. I personally can’t wait of the standard operatic repertoire to see what Brian does with “Ma- for companies around the world. dama Butterfly.” It is the most-performed opera in Though LVO’s production will the United States, where it ranks as not be Luedloff’s first “Butterfly,” Number One in Opera America’s his vision for the March production list of the 20 most-performed op- will be unique – maybe even rare eras in North America. Yet Liver- - in comparison to productions that more Valley Opera’s “Butterfly” Sara Nealy, LVO’s Executive Di- most opera fans have seen. Nealy will have a distinctive character rector. “Mr. Luedloff serves as Di- explains. in its production of the Puccini rector of Opera Theatre at Univer- “LVO will be producing a much masterpiece. LVO is bringing a sity of Northern Colorado where layered ‘Madama Butterfly,’ one fresh, out-of-town perspective he has directed several operas that honors the spirit of the opera with director Brian Luedloff who including ‘Pirates of Penzance,’ by striving for a cultural authentic- hails from Colorado, by way of ‘Hänsel und Gretel,’ ‘The Bartered ity that will infuse our production Chicago, Boston, Vermont and Bride,’ ‘The Impresario,’ ‘le Nozze with energy representing the clash many other east coast locales di Figaro,’ and ‘la Cambiale di of cultural values that is at the where he has directed and staged Matrimonio.’” heart of ‘Butterfly.’ Through his numerous operas. However, it was nationally- directing and staging, Luedloff “Livermore Valley Opera is known soprano and voice coach, will bring to life the old-world excited about bringing a fresh vi- and member of LVO’s Advisory Japan in which geisha Cio-Cio San sion to the Bay Area, that of rising Council Erie Mills, whose own (“Butterfly”) lives, with its rich and talent, Brian Clay Luedloff,” says 25-year opera career includes per- graceful traditions.” 4 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 Art & Entertainment Youth Symphony with Mission of Community Outreach The Livermore-Pleasanton dedicated conductor. He is very fall and winter, and early Febru- Youth Outreach Symphony friendly to the musicians and takes ary to late May in the spring. The (LPYOS) was founded by John great responsibility for every single LPYOS rehearsals are weekly on Ingram of Pleasanton and Liver- rehearsal and performance.” Wednesday from 7 PM to 8:30 PM more High School student Robert The LPYOS has recruited tal- in Ingram’s Concert Hall. Shi. It is a nonprofit charity orga- ented young musicians from Liver- In the works now are two nization with the only to entertain more and Pleasanton. It enrolls the Christmas concerts which feature the underserved and disadvantaged interested high school and junior Christmas music and classical fellow citizens in the whole Bay high school students with at least music. The LPYOS will present Area. The targeted audience moderate instrumental abilities. A its first concert at the Livermore includes retired veterans, nursing typical LPYOS musician can earn VA Rehab Center at 7 PM on De- home patients, hospice patients, 30-40 community service hours cember 10, 2010. All VA hospital children hospital patients, cancer each year through rehearsals and residents and Tri-Valley military hospital patients and special needs performances. LPYOS currently personnel and families are wel- groups. has 32 regular members, many of come. Admission is free. For more Ingram is the conductor of the whom are state and county honor information about the organization new symphony. When asked about bands students. The program has and their performance schedules, Mr. Ingram, Robert comments, two seasons each year: early Sep- please refer to www.lpyos.org. “Mr. Ingram is an extremely tember to late December in the John Ingram

TIFFANY'S Reflections Arts Winners (continued from page 2) selections from the Nutcracker In October, TDA celebrated Move on in Competition at First Republic Bank’s holiday its 10th anniversary. Tiffany is The Pleasanton PTA Council Firehouse Arts Center this year,” tography: Rylee Galletti, 2nd GR, party at the Palace Hotel in San pleased with the success of the held its eighth annual Reflections said Jodie Vashistha, Pleasanton Hearst; Zara Fatteh, 4th GR, Hearst; Francisco. Sixty dancers from studio. “Through the recession Arts Recognition Program on PTA Council President. “The Fire- Varsha Ramakrishnan, 7th GR, Har- the cast of Tiffany’s production we’ve been hiring. We are always Dec. 1 at the new Firehouse Art house Arts Center is perfect for live vest Park Middle School (HPMS); of the Nutcracker performed for looking for dance teachers,” she Center. performances so for the first time Hayden Mitchell, 11th GR, Amador two hours. says. “We have more kids taking Pleasanton students, from kin- in our history, we were able to have Valley High School (AVHS). Last year, Tiffany was contacted more classes and we’re doing dergarten through 12th grade, en- a select number of students present Literature: Sudiksha Gudipati, by an event coordinator from First more performances throughout the tered their work in six categories: their entries to our audience. Our 1st GR, Vintage Hills; Stacy Si- Republic Bank looking for dancers community.” photography, visual arts, literature, live presentations included Saloni manuki, 5th GR, Alisal; Sandhya to perform at a customer apprecia- TDA has added several new musical composition, dance chore- Wasnik, a dancer from Fairlands Kalavacherla, 6th GR, HPMS; Da tion holiday party. “About 35 of programs recently. The Hip Hop ography, and film/video produc- Elementary, Brendan Hwang, a Eun Kim, 10th GR, AVHS our dancers performed and had a Crew, a track within the Perform- tion. There were 310 young artists violinist Hearst Elementary, Esther Visual Arts: Mahika Sharma, really great time so we expanded ing Company, has about 100 danc- from eight Pleasanton schools who Forest, a film maker from Walnut Kindergarten, Fairlands; Sophia the cast this year,” says Tiffany. “I ers including many male dancers. submitted entries for this year’s Grove, and Sandhya Kalavacherla, Kang 4th GR, Mohr; Lucille Bell, love giving my dancers opportuni- Another popular new program is program to their local PTA or from Harvest Park Middle School 7th GR, HPMS; Linyan Tian 10th ties to perform in many different the Company “Lite,” offered in PTSA sponsored program. who read her literature entry.” GR, AVHS venues. I don’t want them thinking Livermore and Pleasanton. From these 310 entries, Reflec- She added, “We are extremely Musical Composition: Hannah dance is only about competition “The Company Lite is for danc- tions Committees at each school grateful to our sponsor Bay Area Jang, 1st GR, Hearst; Brendan and trophies.” ers who want to participate in the identified students in each cat- Academy of Music for helping to Hwang, 4th GR, Hearst; Logan In mid-November, six TDA Performing Company but with a egory and age level to represent make our change of venue pos- Kane, 9th GR, AVHS dancers performed at another First lighter course load,” says Tiffany. each school at the Council level. sible; the staff at the Firehouse Film/Video Production: Amala Republic Bank event, this time “It gives dancers and their families Over 60 entries were submitted to Arts Center, and the Pleasanton Rao, 2nd GR, Hearst; Esther For- at the DeYoung Museum in San a chance to try out the Company the Pleasanton PTA Council for PTA Council Reflections Com- est, 3rd GR, WG; Varsha Ramak- Francisco. In keeping with the mu- and balance dance with other ac- recognition and were showcased mittee, Eileen Armstrong, Susan rishnan, 7th GR, HPMS seum’s Degas exhibit, the dancers tivities.” on December 1 at the Firehouse Marceno and Diane Van Wagner Dance Choreography: Mahika performed as figures from Degas’ In Company Lite, dancers take Arts Center. These students were whose coordination made the night Shamra, kindergarten, Fairlands; iconic ballerina paintings. Also about three hours of dance classes awarded certificates by Parvin Ah- such a huge success.” Saloni Wasnik, 5th GR, Fairlands on Dec. 6, dancers from the TDA each week, compared with six to madi, Pleasanton Unified School Advancing Entries are: Pho- Newport Beach studio performed eight hours for the regular Perform- District Superintendent, and Jodie as swans at a First Republic Bank ing Company. Both the Company Vashistha, Pleasanton PTA Council event at Thomas Keller’s Bouchon Lite and Performing Company par- President, at Wednesday’s ceremo- Christmas Show Presented by restaurant in Beverly Hills. ticipate in two competitions each ny. Also in attendance were Joan On Dec. 18, TDA will stage year, but the Performing Company Laursen, School Board Trustee- American Legion Post its annual production of the Nut- also attends in two conventions. Elect, Valerie Arkin, School Board The 3rd Annual Christmas Show will be presented by American cracker at the Chabot Theater in For more information on TDA, Trustee, and Jim Hansen, Amador Legion Post 237 on Dec. 12. Hayward with shows at noon and visit www.tiffanydance.com. For Valley High School Principal. The festivities will begin at 1:30 p.m. at the Veterans Hall in Pleas- 3 pm. The cast includes over 300 more information on the Rock- Entries advancing to the next anton. The show will include fun, mystery and excitement starring The dancers between the two shows. ettes’ show and to order tickets, level, Peralta PTA District, were Magic of the Islands. Special guest will be Santa Claus. “We’ve added Mother Ginger on visit http://www.radiocitychrist- announced at the event. Admission is $10; children under 5 admitted free when accompanied stilts,” says Tiffany. “Each year mas.com/nationaltour/. TDA danc- “Pleasanton PTA Council was by an adult. we have to keep coming up with ers are performing at the Dec. 19, extremely happy to be have been Proceeds benefit veterans programs. For tickets and information, call creative parts for the younger kids, 6:30 pm at the HP Pavilion in San able to hold our annual Reflections 784-6808. The Veterans Hall is located at 310 Main Street, downtown like the dancing Christmas trees.” Jose. Arts Recognition Program at the Pleasanton. Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 5 Holiday Performances and Events Are Planned Amador Valley High School Ravenswood to Host Yuletide Celebration Performs Winter Concert The annual Ravenswood Victo- Asbury Bell Ringers and dance for the holidays. Meet the bobbin rian Yuletide celebration is set for programs by Triple Threat Per- ladies from the Lace Museum and Amador Friends of Music an- work that my students do each and this Sunday, December 12. Festivi- forming Arts and Trinity Arts watch them make lace. nounced plans for the Amador every day,” said Jon Grantham, ties are from noon to 4 p.m. Dance Academy. There is no admission charge. Valley High School (AVHS) Win- Director of Bands at Amador Val- There will be a variety of crafts There will be homemade baked Ravenswood Historic Site is at ter Concert, featuring four award- ley High School. “It is a pleasure for children. Café Art will provide goods, hot cranberry apple cider, 2647 Arroyo Rd., Livermore. winning concert bands and the Jazz to teach such fine young people. a ceramic ornament that can be hot chocolate, coffee and ice cream Any questions about the event B Ensemble. The concert will be The community should be proud of personalized and fired later at the cones available for purchase. Do- or volunteer opportunities, please held on Tuesday, December 14, at how well they are represented by Studio. Livermore Military Sup- cents will lead tours of the cottage call Valarie Huff, Yuletide Chair- 7pm in the Amador Theater at 1115 the members of the AVHS March- port Admission will help children museum, which has been decorated man at 925-292-4112. Santa Rita Road, Pleasanton. ing Band.” Leading the ensemble write Christmas notes on cards to The Marching Dons recently of 221 students are drum majors troops in Iraq. Livermore Pleas- earned their place in school history Kathy Yuh, Nick Park and Eric anton Pediatrics will make picture by earning their highest placement Butler, and colorguard captains frames and Thomas Marcel, D.D.S ever in the Western Band Associa- Laura Bjork and Olivia Foort. will give out balloons and present LHS Concert to Benefit tion’s 5A Championships, receiv- Amador Friends of Music a special craft. ing 4th place recognition with a Toys for Tots (AFM), is a non-profit 501(C)(3) Parents can shop for unique score of 90.55 for their field show organization which provides orga- gifts, decorations and jewelry in Livermore High School Tri-M ments will be provided. entitled American Voices. Class nization, fundraising, and volun- the Gift Shop . A family photo with Chapter 4792 will present its Sec- Tri-M Music Honor Society 5A hosts the largest ensembles in teer support to the music program. St. Nicholas and Mrs. St. Nicholas ond Annual Toys for Tots Benefit is an organization composed of the circuit. For more information, go to ama- can be taken by professional pho- Concert on Tuesday, December 14, students dedicated to music as “I am immensely proud of the dormusic.org. tographer Maggie Cruzer (with 2010 at 7:00 p.m. in the Livermore well as academics and community yours or her camera) as children High School Theater. Featured in service. Twice a year, Livermore receive a small gift. this free winter concert will be High School Tri-M holds benefit Wind Symphony Presents Concert Scooby, the miniature horse Livermore School District music concerts to help organizations such Maestro Duane Carroll and the School, will sing “Have Yourself will provide rides around the estate students as well as a special per- as Toys for Tots. This year, to cre- Contra Costa Wind Symphony a Merry Little Christmas.” In ad- in his cart. formance by the Tri-Valley’s own ate a community amongst music celebrate the holiday season on dition to singing with the chorus, There will be continuous en- Vintage Brass Quintet. Please students, new chapters were cre- December 13 in a concert of carols Anderson has performed in local tertainment featuring the Unitar- bring a new and unwrapped toy to ated at several middle schools and and other festive music featur- theater productions. ian Universalist Band, Livermore help spread holiday cheer. Refresh- Granada High School. ing the Contra Costa Children’s Shannon Polley, now in her High School Chamber Choral, Chorus, a harpist, a vocalist, a fifth year as the wind symphony’s Festival of Carols Set for Sunday guitarist, a celebrity narrator, and harpist, will perform “Harp Christ- handbell choir is directed by Betty an audience sing-along. mas.” A senior at Monte Vista A Festival of Carols featuring church’s handbell choir as well Gail Hunt. The performance will begin at High School in Danville, Polley traditional Christmas music as as accompanists on strings. The A reception will follow the 7:30 p.m. in the Lafayette-Orinda has been studying the harp since well as some unusual arrangements program includes traditional carols concert in the church’s worship Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox age 5. will be held at 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. as well as special readings of the center. For additional information, Drive, Lafayette. Admission is Dick Callahan, the public ad- 12, at Centerpointe Presbyterian Christmas season, including the please see the church’s web site, free. dress announcer for the Oakland Church, 3410 Cornerstone Court. Nativity story from Luke 2. www.centerpointechurch.info, or Athletics, UC Berkeley football, Performing the music will be The choir is led by director call 925-846-4436. Directed by cofounder Iris La- and St. Mary’s basketball, will the Centerpointe choir and the and organist Katie Walda. The manna, the chorus will sing “Three narrate “The Night Before Christ- Noels,” a medley of Christmas mas.” Handmade Jewelry Featured in Trunk Show selections, “Ding Dong! Mer- Carroll will lead the wind sym- rily on High,” and “Silent Night.” phony, now in its 31st season, Studio Seven Arts will feature will showcase Octavia Bloom’s crafted pieces that are exclusive to Guest guitarist Julio Reyes will in selections including “Holiday the colorful handmade jewelry freshest and boldest designs in the Studio Seven Arts. These include accompany the singers in “Mary Rhapsody,” familiar carols, and from Octavia Bloom at a special gallery,” said Jenny Christiansen, necklaces and earrings. More Had a Baby.” Leroy Anderson’s popular “Sleigh trunk show at the gallery on Dec. owner and designer of Octavia information about the event is Vanessa Anderson, a member Ride.” The audience will be invited 11. Bloom jewelry. “My collection, available by calling Jan Mahood of the chorus for 11 years and a to join the chorus in a sing-along. Octavia Bloom’s founder and with all unique pieces appeals to of Studio Seven Arts at (925) senior at San Ramon Valley High designer Jenny Christiansen, a na- both dressy holiday looks and for 846-4322 or go to www.studios- tive of Pleasanton who now lives in modernized casual with a style- evenarts.com Interfaith Christmas Choir Montana, creates fresh and original first attitude.” The gallery is located in the jewelry pieces that are expressive The trunk show is on Saturday heart of downtown Pleasanton on and Art Display This Sunday and circular, like Mandalas. Jenny Dec. 11th, from 10am to 2:00pm. Main Street. began in the jewelry business with Highlighted will be custom hand The Livermore Interfaith Christ- Choir, Pleasanton Handbell Choir a very small collection of hand- mas Choir and Art Display will be and the LDS Church along with crafted jewelry, inspired mainly presented Sunday, December 12 audience participation singing as a hobby, but things changed Golden Gate Boys Choir, Bellring- at 1501 Hillcrest Ave., Livermore favorite Christmas Hymns. quickly and expanded rapidly from 6 to 9 p.m. The final number of the evening when her line was discovered then ers Perform Concert The schedule is follows: will be the Hallelujah Chorus sing picked up by Anthropologie. She St. Michael’s Catholic Church 6 - 6:45: Christmas Art Display Tickets are $15 adult, $10 along. has grown Octavia Bloom steadily will host an Advent-Christmas senior/student, $5 children 12 and Instrumental Music. This is a great opportunity to since 2005, named partially for the Concert on Fri., Dec. 10 at 7:30 7-8:15: Choir Performances, and under, and $35 for a family join together and share the Spirit of famous street in San Francisco. p.m. ticket. which will include numbers from Christmas through music. Holiday “It’s great to be back in my Featured will be the Golden the Unitarian Universalist Church, St. Michael’s is located at 458 refreshments will be served fol- childhood home for the 2010 Gate Boys Choir and Bellringers Maple St., Livermore. St. Charles Borromeo Catholic lowing the performances. holidays and the Studio Seven along with the St. Michael’s Music Church, Livermore High School For tickets or information, call Arts special Saturday Trunk show Ministry. 925-447-1585 x18. 6 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 Entertainment & Community New Gifts and Toys Needed For Tri-Valley Families Tri-Valley Haven’s Holiday Program helps low income and homeless families, and survivors of domestic and sexual violence, celebrate the holidays by provid- ing them with gifts and food. The program will serve over 950 Tri- Valley families (5,000 individuals) this year. Support of the local com- munity is needed to make this event a success. Tri-Valley Haven is requesting donations of cash, gift cards, new toys, and gifts for teens, women, men and seniors, to meet the needs of the Tri-Valley community. New, non-violent gifts and toys may be dropped off at Tri-Valley Haven’s Holiday site at: Discov- ery Church, 5860 Las Positas Rd. (behind the 7/11 on Vasco Road) in Livermore on Friday, December 10 from 9 am – noon and 1 – 4 pm. For additional information, please call Christine at Tri-Valley Haven at (925) 667-2707. Santa Claus at Fire Station Santa Claus will be at Fire Sta- Livermore High tion #18 in Dublin on Saturday, December 18 from 11:30 am - 3:30 pm as part of the Holiday Presents 'Pride Toy Drive. Have a picture taken with Santa on the antique fire engine, learn the and Prejudice' latest holiday safety information, have some milk and Otis Spunk- Livermore High School’s latest production is an adaptation of Jane meyer cookies, sing holiday carols, Austen’s novel, Pride and Prejudice. The play is being performed by a and listen to firefighters read their cast of twenty-four, supported by a tech crew of five. favorite holiday story, “A Firefight- Performances are December 9, 10, 11 at 8 p.m. in the Livermore er’s Night Before Christmas!” A High Theatre. $10 donation is suggested. All pro- The cast includes Elizabeth Bennet (Emily Serdahl) and Mr. Darcy ceeds will go towards supporting (Skyler Jones); Mr. Bennet (KJ Brown) with no male heirs and five the Alameda County Firefighters daughters to marry off; Mrs. Bennet (Maria Oliveira). Her daughters Holiday Toy Drive. The station meet the eligible gentlemen of Hertfordshire, England on a quest to is located at 4800 Fallon Road, find a suitable match. Besides Elizabeth, there are Jane (Elise Ebbing- Dublin. For more information or haus), Mary (Shea Tanner), Lydia (Abby Peterson), and Kitty (Alyssa to make a donation, call Aisha Proudfoot). Gentlemen entertained as suitors include: Wickham (Tyler Knowles at 556-4584 or email Campbell), Pastor Collins (Steven McCloud), Bingley (Ryan Church) [email protected]. whose sister, Caroline (Emily Persson), quite disapproves; as does New and unwrapped toys, gift Darcy’s aunt, Lady Catherine de Bourgh (Bronwyn Hagerty). cards and monetary donations can Supporting cast members include: Colonel Fitzwilliam (Austin An- also be made through December 24. The Alameda County Fire drade), Mr. Gardiner (Matt Sebastiao), Mrs. Gardiner (Nicole Blair), Department, Alameda County Georgiana (Carrin Whitehurst), Charlotte Lucas (Rachel Lackey), Sir Firefighters Association and the William Lucas (Matt Calder), Lady Lucas and Housekeeper (Debbie City of Dublin are sponsoring the Watson), Officer, Male Servants, Dance Partners (Andrew Kolb-Gou- holiday toy drive, which will go veia, Gabriel Pasillas, Bahram Sherwani, and Dylan Spooner) to such groups as the U.S. Marine All seats are reserved. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased at Corps, Tri-Valley Haven, Toys www.livermorehighonline.com or at the door. for Tots, and Shepherd’s Gate of Livermore. Donations can be made at the The Bennet family is pictured in the top photo (back) Mrs. Bennet following locations: Station #16, played by Maria Oliveira; (middle) daughters Jane played by Elise 7494 Donohue Dr.; Station #17, Ebbinghaus, Elizabeth played by Emily Serdahl, and Mary played 6200 Madigan Rd.; Station #18, by Shea Tanner, and Mr. Bennet played by KJ Brown, (front) Lydia 4800 Fallon Rd.; ACFD Dublin played by Abby Peterson and Kitty, Alyssa Proudfoot. In the lower Fire Prevention Office, 100 Civic photo are Elizabeth Bennet is played by Emily Serdahl (left), Mr. Plaza; and Dublin Senior Center, 7600 Amador Valley Blvd. For Darcy by Skyler Jones. information, call 833-6606. Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 7 New Downtown Review Art Studios The Miraculous 'Messiah' by Nancy O’Connell Nina Flyer, playing the lowest note During the intermission, while Handel’s Messiah was per- of the keyboard part. everyone worried about his fate, Grand Opening formed by the Pacific Chamber After a brief orchestral overture, refreshments were served. The Symphony on Fri., Dec. 3 at the the tenor, Thomas Glenn, sang his talented Cantabella Children’s Kicks Off With Inaugural Bankhead Theater in Livermore. first recitative, “Comfort Ye My Honors Choir with their high, This masterpiece has been pre- People.” His voice carried to the clear voices entertained those in Monthly Second Saturday Event sented to audiences more times back of the theater, and he enun- attendance. This Saturday, December 11, the Bothwell Arts Center’s than any other work in the clas- ciated each word. His sixteenth Maestro Kohl announced after Downtown Art Studios, an “open working space” center for sical music repertoire since its notes were in tune and he leapt an the intermission that the man was visual artists, kicks off its monthly Second Saturdays Open inception over 250 years ago. In octave interval with ease. Glenn going to be “just fine.” Studios with a “Holiday Art and Secondhand Supply Deals” 1741 Handel himself conducted recently graduated from the Adler Marnie Breckenridge, soprano event, introducing artists who have already signed up for space it from the harpsichord, as was Fellowship program with the San soloist, in “Rejoice Greatly, O and works by several friends of the Bothwell. The event is then the custom. Orchestras were Francisco Opera. scheduled for 11-4pm at 62 So. L Street (near KFC and the directed by the first violinist or by His career is filled Railroad Station). the keyboard artist. There was no with promise The property is owned by the City of Livermore, who wanted conductor wielding a baton. Han- The chorus, to add more activity to the Downtown Cultural Arts District and del composed over 200 pages of t r a i n e d u n d e r offered it to LVPAC’s Bothwell Arts Center at reduced rent for the musical score in just 24 days! the direction of use as art studios. Bothwell staff, volunteers, and artists, along According to the program notes, he Robert Lappa, with significant help from Livermore Valley Performing Arts said after finishing the orchestra- entered, singing Center staff, have worked diligently since shortly after ArtWalk tion, “Whether I was in the body “And the Glory to clear, clean and renovate the interior. or out of my body when I wrote it of the Lord.” The “It’s going to be an ongoing project,” says Linda Ryan, I know not.” sopranos sang with great feeling. Daughter of Zion” had a glorious Manager of the Bothwell Arts Center and co-Manager of the Kathy Streeter spoke briefly Their high birdlike voices charmed quality to her voice. The orchestra new Downtown Art Studios. “We’re at the point where artists before the performance, asking for the audience. When the altos had a never overshadowed her. It was can move in and start working. We’ll keep working to create contributions from the audience. few bars alone, their voices carried sensitively attuned to her every a more fun and creative environment.” Future plans include She pointed out that only 60% of well, as did the men’s. nuance. installing blinds, painting the storage area, renovating the office the expenses are raised through When Torief Borsting, baritone, Later, the tympani and two and walk-in refrigerator room, as well as creating colorful “Van actual ticket sales. Then the four entered with his bass recitative, trumpets joined in for the famous Gogh-ish” murals on the lower window areas outside. soloists appeared with Maestro “Thus Saith the Lord,” he executed Hallelujah Chorus. Maestro Kohl Ryan is joined by Co-Manager Carol Edwards and Arthur Lawrence Kohl, and the magic his difficult passages with ease. turned to the audience and brought Barinque. A long-time Bothwell volunteer and House Manager began. The two women soloists Erin Neff, mezzo-soprano, sang everyone to their feet. Some peo- at the Bankhead Theater, Edwards has worked as the ArtWalk were dramatically dressed – the the alto solos and captivated the ple had even brought their musical Artist Coordinator for 3 years, and taught arts & crafts to seniors alto, Erin Neff, in a lavender gown audience. There was a magnifi- scores so that they could sing every for several years. Barinque brings a graphics design and urban which shimmered under the bright cent quality to her voice. In her word, but the house was too dark. art style to the mix. Barinque has been intensely involved in stage lights; the soprano, Marnie aria, “O Thou That Tellest Good No one in the audience could see diverse downtown arts from assistant curator at Ryan Fine Art Breckenridge in a rich, red evening Tidings to Zion,” the violins had their score, or even their programs. gallery, to curating exhibitions and is the creator of Breakdance dress. Throughout the chorus and some tricky leaps and running A dim lighting would be very much Competitions at It’s All About Dancing, the third of which is the orchestra the women wore sixteenths. Using uniform bow- appreciated by all. (Even in Davies set for January. bright blouses of reds, greens and ing, they played their parts skill- Symphony Hall, there is enough Downtown Art Studio Members who will start settling in blues over long black skirts. One fully. Maestro Lawrence Kohl, light during the performances so to create by Saturday’s event include Nova Starling, Joanna felt almost sorry for the men in using only his expressive hands that everyone can glance at his Crawshaw, Dale Myers, Holly Consol, Arthur Barinque, and black tuxedos, white shirts, and to conduct, gave careful and pre- or her program.) The only word Kathy Hill. black bow ties. cise cues as he brought the aria heard from the audience on Friday The Bothwell Arts Center is a project of the Livermore Valley The house was nearly full. to a close. When conducting the night was Hallelujah! Performing Arts Center. At its main site on 2466 8th Street, sup- Some families brought their chil- small chamber orchestra, his mo- A short Part III followed fea- ports musicians, visual artists, dancers, acting troupes, singers dren, who were quiet and attentive. tions were restrained, but when he turing five more numbers. When and more by providing inexpensive space rental in a friendly The Pacific Chamber Symphony brought in the full chorus, he gave the bass, Mr. Borsting, sang “The environment. The Bothwell’s other fund-raisers include Art- was small, as it would have been big, generous arm movements so Trumpet Shall Sound” the first Walk in October and the New Orleans Bash at the Bothwell, in Handel’s time. that even the men in the last row of trumpet, Ron Blais, was heard. He coming up in 2011. Volunteers looking for a way to help can The harpsichord added texture the chorus would have no difficulty played very well with good phras- contact [email protected]. LVPAC is a not-for-profit to the music, but was heard most in following his cues. ing and intonation. corporation. clearly in certain recitatives when A Bass solo followed. Just be- The final chorus, complete with accompanying the soloist with the fore the close of this solo, a man trumpets and tympani, filled the basso continuo, the first cellist, in the chorus fainted and fell off entire theater with sounds of tri- of the platform, striking his head. umph and glory. The enthusiastic Men from backstage came out. A audience rose to give the perform- Old Mission Performance by Ohlone Chamber Singers violinist put down his instrument ers a standing ovation. This year marks the 25th an- genius, this five part choral and or- bridge, England. and rushed to help. For a moment All four soloists were superb. niversary of the Ohlone Chamber chestral piece was first performed Old Mission San José is men in black tuxes surrounded We are fortunate to have this Singers, performing during the on Christmas Day in 1723. located at 43300 Mission Blvd., the figure on the floor of the stage. professional symphony appear in holiday season at Old Mission San As in previous years, the au- Fremont. Tickets are $10-$15 and Then two men supported him as Livermore. With the Bankhead Jose. Performances are Saturday, dience joins in singing favorite can be purchased at 510-659-6031; they led him off. Theater and its excellent acoustics December 11, 8 pm and Sunday, Christmas carols as part of the www.smithcenter.com Throughout the intermission we can look forward to more per- December 12, 4 pm. performance. The concert ends Contact Jackie Whitehouse at The choir, accompanied by people speculated that the stage formances of outstanding quality. with Bob Chilcott’s special ar- 510-659-6158 or jwhitehouse@ lights were very hot, and the strain For the next Pacific Chamber Sym- chamber orchestra, performs rangement of “The Twelve Days of ohlone.edu for more information. Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Mag- Christmas,” originally performed of having to stand motionless in a phony concert in January, reserve nificat.” Considered to be one of by the King’s Singers in Cam- black suit or tux for over an hour your tickets early. the grandest illustrations of Bach’s had caused the fainting spell. 8 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 Art & Entertainment

MEETINGS/CLASSES $10 Youth (under 12): $5 Children (5 The Princess and the Pea, Civic Arts Stage Figure Drawing Workshop, every Friday and under): $3. Company, Dec. 10, 11, 17 and 18, 7:30 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Artists bring their Third annual Ohlone College Music De- p.m. and Dec. 11, 12, 18 and 19, 2 p.m. own materials and easels. Open to all art- partment’s Christmas Extravaganza, Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Rd., ists. Professional artist models (nude). No Saturday, December 11, 2pm, featuring Pleasanton. Ticket information www. instructor. Students under 18 need written all four of Ohlone’s wind ensembles firehousearts.org parental permission to attend. Cost $20 under the direction of Maestro Tony Cle- Firehouse Kids, The Princess and the Pea per session. At the Bothwell Art Center ments: the award winning Ohlone Wind by Civic Arts Stage Co., Sat., Dec. 11, 11 2466 8th St. Livermore. Coffee, tea and Orchestra, the Ohlone Community Band, a.m. Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Rd., refreshments are available. Call or email the Mission Peak Brass Band, and the Pleasanton. www.firehousearts.org Barbara Stanton for more info about the Ohlone Tuba Ensemble - one of only two The Little Engine That Could, Dec. 18-23, workshop, 925-373-9638 - microangelo@ such ensembles in California. The pro- Presented by Bay Area Children’s Theater earthlink.net. gram includes arrangements of Christmas at the Front Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Art Critique and Coffee, every Friday, carols and other holiday favorites. “The Canyon Rd., San Ramon, 973-3343 or 10 a.m. at Border's Cafe, Rose Pavilion, Night Before Christmas” is a special SanRamonPerformingArts.com. Pleasanton. Information at poetryoncan- treat, featuring a special guest doing the Firehouse Kids, TBA, Sat., Jan. 8, 11 a.m. [email protected]. narration. Smith Center at Ohlone Col- Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad lege, 43300 Mission Boulevard, Fremont. Ave., Pleasanton. www.firehousearts. MUSIC/CONCERTS Tickets $10 - $15; 510-659-6031; www. org Music every Saturday in the tasting room smithcenter.com. For more information Through the Eyes of Faith, featuring from 12 to 4; open every day if the gate contact Jackie Whitehouse at 510-659- Faith Alpher in a moving and funny one "Mendocino Matilijas" watercolor on Yupo paper by Charlotte is open and for sure on Fridays, Satur- 6158 or [email protected]. woman show. Sun., Jan. 9, 2 p.m. Bank- Severin. days and Sundays 11 to 5. Red Feather The Cool Tones Big Band to perform at the head Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Winery, 5700 Greenville Rd., Livermore. Pleasanton Public Library on Sun., Dec. Adult content. 925-373-6800, www. Information at 449-1871 or www.red- 12 from 2 to 3 p.m. Library programs are livermoreperformingarts.org. Reception Set for featherwinery.com free and open to everyone. The Friends Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Tri-Valley Chris Bradley's Jazz Band, plays at The of the Pleasanton Library are sponsor- Repertory Theatre musical comedy Pen Women Exhibit Sunol Jazz Cafe (In the Center of Sunol) ing the program: Call Penny Johnson at production. Performances weekends the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month 925/931-3405 for information. 400 Old Jan. 21-Feb. 6, 2011, 8 p.m. Fridays and The public is invited to the artists’ reception for the Diablo/Alameda 7:30-9:30 p.m. The band features real Jazz Bernal Ave., Pleasanton. No registration Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. Bankhead Branch of the National League of American Pen Women (NLAPW) from the 1920's, 30's, 40's. required. Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Call “Believe/Achieve Art Exhibit.” Blacksmith Square Saturday Concerts, San Ramon Symphonic Band, Dec. 17, 7 462-2121 or go to www.trivalleyrep.com The exhibit will be at the John O’Lague Galleria and the Hayward Thomas Coyne Winery, John Christopher p.m. “In Dulci Jubilo” Holiday Christmas for information. Cellars, Swirl Tapas Bar and Victorian Concert. Dougherty Valley Performing Cabaret, Pacific Coast Repertory Theatre, City Hall Dec. 3, 2010 to Feb. 9, 2011. Olive Oil present live music in the Square, Arts Center, 10550 Albion Rd., San Jan. 21-22, 27-29 8 p.m. and Jan. 23 The reception will be held Dec. 17, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. There is no 3 to 6 p.m. Wine tasting (fee waived Ramon, 973-3343 or SanRamonPerform- and 30, 2 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, admission charge. with purchase), food at menu prices. No ingArts.com. 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. Artists participating are Natica Angilly, Kazumi Cranney, Evelyn outside food or adult beverages. Corner Chanticleer, “A Chanticleer Christmas,” firehousearts.org Glaubman, Elizabeth Hack, Leona Nichandros, Dori Pendergrass, Char- of South Livermore Ave. and Railroad Thurs., Dec. 23, 7:30 p.m. Bankhead The Lion in Winter, Jan. 21-Feb. 12, Village lotte Severin, Pallavi Sharma and Barbara Spanskie. Ave. downtown Livermore. Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Presented Advent Christmas Concert, Fri., Dec. www.livermoreperformingarts.org or by Role Players Ensemble Theatre. www. Hayward City Hall is located at 777 B Street. 10, 7:30 p.m. Golden Gate Boys Choir 925-373-6800. danvilletheatre.com Pen Women writers will be performing original works at the reception. and Bell Ringers. St. Michael’s Music Hot Club of San Francisco, “Best of the Music and refreshments will be provided. Ministry, 458 Maple St., Livermore. Bay,” sizzling, swinging New Year’s Eve COMEDY NLAPW began in 1897 in Washington D.C., when three well known $15 adults, $10 seniors/students, $5 celebration. Fri., Dec. 31, 8 p.m. Bankhead Big Fat Year End Kiss Off Comedy Show professionals in the fields of writing and art were denied access to the children, $35 family. Tickets email st- Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. Tickets XVIII, Will Durst & Friends Dec. 30, 7 press club because they were women. They formed their own organiza- [email protected] or or information www.livermoreperformin- p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., call, 447-1585 ext. 18. garts.org or 925-373-6800. Livermore. tion of 17 women of achievement in letters, art and music composition Vocal Jazz & Combo Concert, 8 p.m. Ying Quartet, 8 p.m., Sat., Jan. 8, Del Valle for networking and support. Presently about 4000 meet for support and Dec. 10. Las Positas College Perform- Fine Arts Concert, Bankhead Theater, DANCE inspiration. ing Arts Center, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., 2400 First St., Livermore. Tickets or The Nutcracker, Valley Dance Theatre 30th Livermore. Performing Arts Events Line information 925-373-6800, www.liver- Annual Production, December 11, 17, at 925.424.1100 or go to www.laspositas- moreperformingarts.org. 18 & 19, 2010 - 7:00 p.m; December 11, ART/PHOTO EXHIBITS international issues through art exchanges college.edu/performingarts Cypress String Quartet, Sun., Jan. 9, 12, 18, & 19, 2010 - 2:00 p.m. Bankhead Livermore Art Association Gallery, and exhibits of works by children ages New World Music Academy is holding its 3 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Theater, 2400 First Street, Livermore. All located in Carnegie Park, offers art 5-18. Harrington Gallery at the Firehouse 5th Annual Winter Recital on December Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www.fire- seats are reserved. Adults $24, $27 & $33; classes, unusual gifts, painting rentals, art Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleas- 11. It will start at 11:00am. The Recital housearts.org Students 17 and younger $18. Purchase exhibits and information pertaining to the anton. www.FirehouseArts.org. is held at the Academy location, 1258-H Diavolo, cinematic experience of dance and online at www.bankheadtheater.org, by art field, 2155 Third St., Livermore. The One-of-a-Kind art jewelry from newest Quarry Lane, Pleasanton. There will be gymnastics, Fri.-Sat., Jun. 14 and 15, 8 phone at 925-373-6800 or in person at gallery has been open since 1974 and is Gallery member, Ethereal Designs, at a food drive to support Alameda County p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., the theater box office. Highlighting the run as a co-op by local artists. Hours are a Trunk Show on December 11th from Food Bank in lieu of an admission fee. Livermore. www.livermoreperformin- 30th annual full-length production of Wed.-Sun. 11:30-4 p.m. For information 11-7pm at Ryan Fine Art Gallery, 171 So. For additional information, please contact garts.org or 925-373-6800. the Tchaikovsky's holiday classic The call 449-9927. J Street, Livermore, gallery hours 12-6 the Academy at 925-462-5400. Tingstad & Rumbel - American home-style Nutcracker will be Taeko drummers Livermore Art Association, Winter Holi- Thursday-Friday and 12-4 on Saturdays. Motown Holiday Revue with Top Shelf, music, Fri., Jan. 14, 8 p.m. Firehouse Arts and a large Chinese Dragon who will day Celebration Art Show at Dougherty www.lindaryanfineart.com. Dec. 11, 8 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. perform during the Chinese segment of Station Community Center in San Ramon. First Ever Second Saturday Open Studios 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. Tickets or information www.firehouse- the ballet. Public performances will be The show features more than 30 art works Event at the new Bothwell Arts Center's firehousearts.org arts.org accompanied the Livermore-Amador by 20 local artists including metal works, Downtown Art Studios: Holiday Art Instrumental Jazz Concert, 8 p.m. Dec. Rodgers & Hammerstein with Hart, Sat., Symphony pit orchestra. The Cantabella paintings and photography. All art is for and Secondhand Supply Deals, 11-4pm 11. Las Positas College Performing Arts Jan. 15, 8 p.m. and Sun., Jan. 16, 2 p.m. Children's Chorus and Harmony Fusion sale. The show will run from November on Saturday, December 11th, 62 So. L Center, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Liver- Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad will add vocal entertainment to selected 1st to December 17th. The Dougherty Sta- Street, Livermore. more. Performing Arts Events Line at Ave., Pleasanton. www.firehousearts. performances. tion Community Center is located at 17011 Harrington Art Gallery exhibit, Look of 925.424.1100 or go to www.laspositascol- org Friday Night Dance Parties, themed Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon. Jazz, Saturday, January 29, 2011 – Tues- lege.edu/performingarts Al Jarreau, 8 p.m. Jan. 28, Dougherty parties each Friday night from Salsa to Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 day, February 22, 2011. Gallery Reception Concert with the Bay Bells, Dec. 12, 3:30 Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Swing, includes a group dance lesson a.m to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Saturday, January 20, 2011, 3 to 5pm. p.m. Dublin Senior Center. The Bay Bells Albion Rd., San Ramon, 973-3343 or at 8:15. $15 cover charge, 8:15 dance Paintbrush Diplomacy, December 11, Bay Area artists such as Chester Elmore, annual appearance continues with their SanRamonPerformingArts.com.. lesson, 9:00-10:30 for dance parties. It's 2010 – January 12, 2011, International Joan Finton and James Gayles will be performance of Silver Bells. Bay Bells All About Dancing, 171 So. J Street, Children’s Art Exhibit Works from the featured in an exhibit that celebrates have been entertaining audiences through- ON THE STAGE Livermore. 925-449-9292, or studio@ permanent collection of Paintbrush jazz and how it can inspire visual artists. out the country for the past 25 years Bah HumBug! Scrooge’s Christmas itsallaboutdancing.com. Diplomacy, an organization that seeks This exhibit will be held in conjunction and represent over 200 years of musical Carol, Dec, 3-12, Presented by San New Performance Group, combines dance, to connect the world one paintbrush at a with our annual Campana Jazz Festival, experience featuring over 100 bells and Ramon Community Theater at the Front gymnastics and acrobatics. Four hours of time. Promoting peace and understanding February 17-20, 2011. Firehouse Arts chimes. It is true holiday entertainment Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Canyon week of training to start. Two dance classes through the universal language of art, the Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. the whole family will enjoy. Call (925) Rd., San Ramon, 973-3343 or SanRa- as well as tumbling and flexibility class. organization encourages awareness of www.firehousearts.org. 556-4500 for more information. Adults: monPerformingArts.com. Information, contact gymfinityjuli@

Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 9

yahoo.com or [email protected]. Ave., Pleasanton. 931-3400. No registra- includes finger sandwiches, savory sweets Dance Studio @ Gymfinity. tion required. , tea and punch. Tables seat four, but larger Brinda Dixit, Bharatanatyam Aranget- parties can be accommodated. Register ram or Solo Dance Debut, Sun., Jan. CHORAL early to avoid disappointment. Call (925) 2, 4 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Sing it yourself Messiah, Valley Concert 452-2100 for more information. St., Livermore. Free admission. Event Chorale. Fri., Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m. Trin- Livermore Interfaith Christmas Choir includes live music, refreshments and ity Lutheran Church, Pleasanton Ticket and Art Display - Sunday, December dinner. information at www.valleyconcertcho- 12 – 1501 Hillcrest Ave., Livermore - 6 rale.org. - 9 pm. 6 - 6:45 Christmas Art Display AUDITIONS/VOLUNTEERS Cantabella Children’s Chorus Annual and Instrumental Music. 7-8:15 Choir Solo Piano Competition for young artists, Winter Concerts, Tomorrow Shall Be Performances, which will include num- sponsored by Las Positas College Music My Dancing Day, Saturday, December 11, bers from the Unitarian Universalist Department, open to ages 14 through 2010, at 1:30 P.M. featuring the training Church, St. Charles Borromeo Catholic 24. The winner will perform George and performing choirs and introducing the Church, Livermore High School Choir, Gershwin’s, “Rhapsody in Blue” at the new Honors Choir, and at 4:00 P.M. the Pleasanton Handbell Choir and the LDS May 4, 2011 Orchestra Concert as part of performing choirs and the new Honors Church along with audience participation the inaugural season for the new Barbara Choir. At Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, singing favorite Christmas Hymns. The Fracisco Mertes Center for the Arts. The 1385 South Livermore Avenue, Liver- final number of the evening will be the application deadline is February 10, 2011. more. Children aged kindergarten through Hallelujah Chorus sing along. This is a high school will perform choral music, great opportunity to join together and The selection will take place in February. accompanied by dancers and chamber share the Spirit of Christmas through To request application forms and informa- musicians. Repertoire includes dance- music. Holiday refreshments will be tion, please contact Music instructor Mary themed numbers and pieces from African, served following the performances. Campbell, mcampbell@laspositascol- German, English, Catalan, Hebrew and 3rd Annual Christmas Show presented by lege.edu, (925) 424-1118. American Folk Song traditions. Audience American Legion Post 237 on Dec. 12 at Livermore's 2011 Regional Talent Com- participation, too. Tickets at the door: 1:30 p.m. at the Veterans Hall, 301 Main petition is now accepting applications. adults $15, children 10 and under $10; in St., Pleasanton. The show will include Top winners in each of two categories advance online: adults $12, children 10 fun, mystery and excitement starring The - youth (17 and under) and adults (18 and and under $8, at Cantabella.org. Magic of the Islands. Special guest will be over) - will each take home $2,500. This 25th Annual Christmas at the Mission, Santa Claus. Admission is $10; children competition will feature singers, dancers, Ohlone Chamber Singers conducted by under 5 admitted free when accompanied bands, pianists, magicians, comedians and Dennis L. Keller. Saturday, December by an adult. Proceeds benefit veterans other types of performances. Aspiring 11, 8 pm and Sunday, December 12, 4 programs. For tickets and information, performers from anywhere are invited pm. Accompanied by chamber orchestra, call 784-6808. to audition and compete. Information perform Johann Sebastian Bach’s "Magni- Celebration of Light, Fri., Dec. 17, 5 to 7 and applications for auditions are avail- ficat" and numerous familiar carols. The p.m. at Hacienda School, 3800 Stoneridge Guitarist Performs His able at LivermoresTalentCompetition. concert ends with a special arrangement Dr., Pleasanton. Students will present com. Applications must be received by of Chilcott’s "The Twelve Days of Christ- plays and activities from ancient civiliza- Rockin' Holiday Show December 31, 2010. mas," previously performed by the King's tions around the world. The focus will Concerto competition, Prometheus Singers. Old Mission San Jose, 43300 be on astronomy. Weather permitting, Symphony Orchestra of Oakland is Mission Boulevard, Fremont. Tickets: there will be telescopes to view the sky. World class guitarist, Gary Hoey, is heading back to Livermore after sponsoring a concerto competition for $10-$15 available at 510-659-6031, The public is invited to attend. cmachi@ his visit during Guitar Player LIVE! in September. He will be perform- Bay Area string, wind and percussion www.smithcenter.com or at the door. headsup.org. ing at the Sapphire Restaurant and Lounge, bringing his Ho Ho Hoey’s players age eighteen years or younger. Ball at the Mall, Fri., Dec. 31, Stoneridge Rockin’ Holiday Show to town. The competition will be held on Tuesday OPERA Shopping Center, Pleasanton. Presented Gary’s “Ho Ho Hoey” series of Christmas CDs and on-air station Met Opera Theater-casts, 10 a.m. simultane- by Pleasanton North Rotary as a fund- evening February 1, 2011. The winner visits during the holiday season have become an annual staple at hun- will perform with the orchestra on Sunday, ous viewings and 12 encore rebroadcasts of raiser for children in the community. Live May 22, 2011, and will receive a $200.00 Metropolitan Opera productions at Dublin's music, piano bar, premium no-host bar, dreds of radio stations nationwide. Moreover, his live interpretation award. Contestants are to perform from Regal Cinema, 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays champagne at midnight, souvenir glass, of “Ho Ho Hoey” continues to grow new fans each year. So much so memory a complete concerto or work - Schedule: Dec. 11, Jan. 5: Verdi's "Don hors d’oeuvres and more. Information and that Hallmark’s musical greeting cards feature two of Gary’s “Ho Ho for solo instrument and orchestra. The Carlo;" Jan. 8, 26: Puccini's "La Fanciulla tickets at www.ballatthemall.org. Del West;" Feb. 12, Mar. 2: Glass's "Nixon in Livermore Reads Together, the 2011 book Hoey” classics. application deadline is January 25, 2011. Doors for the performance open at 5:00pm, with the option of a buffet Applications are available by calling (925) China;" Feb. 26, Mar. 16: Gluck's "Iphigenia is “1906” by James Dalessandro. Novel 447-3659 or online at www.promethe- in Tauride;" April 9, 27: Rossini's "Le Comte centers on the 1906 San Francisco earth- dinner prior to the show, served from 5:00-7:00pm. Points North featur- ussymphony.org. Ory;" April 23, May 11: Richard Strauss's quake and fire. Month long celebration ing Eric Barnett, will be opening from 7:00-8:00pm. Gary Hoey will be "Capriccio;" April 30, May 18: Verdi's "Il will be kicked off on Sunday, January 23, on from 8:00-10:00pm. Seating is limited, buffet seating is tables of four, Trovatore;" May 14, June 11: Wagner's 2011 at 2 p.m. with a presentation by the MOVIES "Die Walkure." author, James Dalessandro. A reception every attempt will be made to seat your party together, first come, first Classic Film Series, Vine Cinema and will follow featuring famous San Fran- served. Tickets for the performance are $15 general admission, or $35 Alehouse, 1722 First St., Livermore. MISCELLANEOUS cisco food treats and turn of the century Schedule: Dec. 9: Gone with the Wind; for a buffet dinner and performance. Sapphire Restaurant and Lounge Holiday Tea, Sat., Dec. 11, 12:30 p.m. and music by Greg Pane. Variety of events is located in Downtown Livermore, 2300 First Street. and Jan. 13: Star Wars. All movies begin at Sun., Dec. 12, 12:30 p.m. Dublin Heritage planned during the month of February 7 p.m. Information at www.VineCinema. Park and Museums, Donlon Way. $25 per at the Civic Center Library, 1188 So. Buy tickets online through the Bankhead Theater ticket of- com or 447-2545. person Luncheon served in the holiday Livermore. Information available at www. fice, 2400 First Street, online at www.bankheadtheater.org, or call Documentary film, Afghan Star, Dec. 16. glow of this historic setting. The menu livermore.lib.ca.us 925.373.6800. Pleasanton Library hosting at the new Firehouse Arts Center. No reservations are required. Admission is free. Doors open 6:15 p.m., film at 7 p.m. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. (Info on movie www.afghanstar.com.) For more information, call Penny Johnson, 931- 3405. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Rail- road Avenue, downtown Pleasanton. Going Places: A Classic Film Series, shown the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. in the Pleasanton Library's meeting room through June 2, 2011. The program is a partnership of Las Positas College and the Pleasanton Public Library proudly pres- ent. Candy Klaschus, film historian and Coordinator of the Humanities Program at Las Positas College, is the host. There is no admission charge. 400 Old Bernal 10 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 Community Conference Invites Middle School Age Girls Soroptimist International of Registered Nurse Amy Sluss the San Ramon Valley is holding will serve as keynote for the par- its seventh-annual She’s All That ents. Her talk is entitled Raising conference for middle school girls Confident Daughters and will on Feb. 12 at San Ramon Valley emphasize the challenges today’s High School in Danville. young women face and contrast Registration is open now at them to what their parents may www.soroptimist-sr.org. The cost have faced in prior generations. is $30 for those who sign up by Jan. The emphasis will be on how par- 22 and $35 after that. Complimen- ents can support their daughters. tary admission is available to those Parents will also choose three who cannot afford to attend. The workshops including presenta- conference will run from 9 a.m. to tions on nurturing the preteen 3 p.m. Lunch is included. soul, healthy relationships, teen “The She’s All That conference empowerment, and cyber safety. started as a way to help middle A “Live Your Dream” expo with school girls address issues most informational exhibits will supple- affecting their lives,” said So- ment the workshops for both par- roptimist conference marketing ents and daughters. chairperson Robyn Forman of San Forman, a Business to Business Ramon. “More than 2,000 young marketing consultant who owns girls have attended over the years her own company, says she truly and the feedback we’ve received believes this event makes a differ- has been both positive and gratify- ence in the lives of young girls. “If ing.” As in previous years, parents we wait until high school to reach will be invited to attend as well as these girls, it’s too late,” she states. During the month of November, Livermore’s Christensen Middle Schools, boys 7th grade basketball the girls but will participate in a “They need to feel comfortable separate program. in their own skin and we believe team organized a food drive to help the Open Heart Kitchen (OHK). During the morning students would This year’s event features She’s All That will help them get drop-off items at their school. All players collected canned goods and nonperishable food items to Chevron Talent Management there.” be donated to OHK. Pictured are Scott Newby, Jullian Ghereben, Brennon Dillard, Cory Cathrea, and Advisor Chris Howard who will Forman says that attendees Brett Wilkinson, at Open Heart Kitchen after the delivery. Not pictured, but who were a great help in help break the ice for the girls and come from throughout the Tri-Val- making this a success food drive, are Trevor Valone, Sooraj Saxena, Isaiah Campbell, Doug Anderson, set the tone for the day. Howard ley and LaMorinda regions and Dylan Medeiros, Michael Darden, Austin Welier, and TJ Calva. has been lauded as a role model that often girls attend with their for confident, vibrant, and em- friends. “She’s All That is a day powered young women and girls that combines learning with fun and frequently presents in front of for parents and children. It is very large audiences. She will share her gratifying for the Soroptimists that passion for helping others to better we can contribute to the commu- the lives of women and children nity by helping to turn these girls locally. into vital and productive young Following Howard’s presen- women.” tation, the girls will select three For more information please workshops from a list that includes visit www.soroptimist-sr.org/ or go sessions on talking to boys, self to Facebook at http://bit.ly/SISRV- defense, relating to parents, deal- Facebook and Flickr at http://www. ing with mean girls, yoga, social flickr.com/photos/sisrv/ savvy and personal style. Talk Hawks Bring Home More Trophies Las Positas College student Tournament at CSU Northridge on Adam Neylan of Livermore won November 20 and 21.” First Place in Open Programmed Since October, the Las Positas Oral Interpretation at a recent College Talk Hawks forensics forensics competition among team has won two First Place in colleges including Stanford Uni- Community College Sweepstakes versity, Pepperdine University, awards at tournaments. Following and UCLA. is a list of the individual award- “This was the toughest compe- winners at the recent tournament: tition of the season,” said director Katie Johnson, Livermore: of Forensics Janet Brehe Johnson. Finalist Open Duo Interpretation “The Talk Hawks faced the fierce and Finalist Open Poetry Interpre- competition with grace and poise, tation; Adam Neylan, Livermore: and advanced into several final First Place Open Programmed Oral rounds. They all came home stron- Interpretation and Finalist Open ger competitors for having been Programmed Oral Interpretation; up against some of the nation’s Salim Rawazi, Dublin: Finalist best performers in forensics,” she Open Poetry Interpretation; Bran- The Las Positas College Talk Hawks win awards at a statewide forensics tournament. Top row from noted. don Rogers, Livermore: Finalist left to right: Salim Razawi, Dublin; Brandon Rogers, Livermore; Adam Neylan, Livermore; Jenella “Thirty-seven colleges, most Open Duo Interpretation; Lanea Presley, Livermore; Lanea Warren, Pleasanton. Bottom row from left to right: Katie Johnson, Livermore; of which are four-year colleges Warren, Pleasanton: Finalist Open Jordan Adelman, Livermore; Director of Forensics Janet Brehe Johnson; Megan Sinclair, Hayward. and universities, competed in Prose Interpretation and Finalist Photo - Courtesy of Las Positas College The Robert Barbera Invitational Open Informative Speaking.

Community THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 11

Coldwell Banker Tops $105,000 for Habitat for Humanity Coldwell Banker Residential of prizes including a $5,000 cash Brokerage Community Founda- prize donated by Princeton Capi- tion, the philanthropic arm of the tal, trips to Spanish Bay and the residential real estate services com- Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, a $500 pany, announced that it has raised Target gift card, an Apple iPad and more than $105,000 for Habitat for iPod Shuffle, and myriad other Humanity, the nonprofit organiza- prizes donated by generous com- tion that helps low-income families panies and individuals throughout build their own homes. Northern California and beyond. The donation was the result of Coldwell Banker is the only a month-long community-wide national real estate firm to embrace raffle held throughout Coldwell Habitat for Humanity as its official Banker Residential Brokerage’s corporate charity. The company 58 Northern California offices. has funded and built numerous Entitled “Homes and Hope,” this Habitat homes since the beginning year's campaign was the 12th of its affiliation with the nonprofit annual fund-raiser by Coldwell organization in 1993. In Northern Banker for Habitat for Humanity. California alone, the Coldwell “Thousands of our agents, man- Banker Residential Brokerage agers and staff came together to Community Foundation has rais- make this year’s raffle a huge suc- ing more than $2 million through cess,” said Rick Turley, president the efforts of its sales associates, of Coldwell Banker Residential managers, staff and clients. The Brokerage in the San Francisco Coldwell Banker team has also Bay Area. “They donated their volunteered more 43,000 hours time, money and resources, and and participated in the construc- The Livermore Knights of Columbus presented a check for $2,025.01 to St. Michael School benefiting because of them we are going tion of 127 Habitat for Humanity the Science Camp Program. Tom Silvey (Grand Knight) and Paul Hendrickson (Program Director) homes. th to be providing homes and hope delivered a check to the principal, Sister Emmanuel Cardinale, O.P and five students from their 6 Grade for many deserving Habitat for To learn more about Coldwell th Class. The money was raised with the specific purpose, to offset the funds needed to send each 6 Humanity families throughout Banker Residential Brokerage’s grade student to Science Camp. Each year the Knights of Columbus run Pancake Breakfasts to raise Northern California in 2011.” Habitat for Humanity fund-raising funds to donate to the community. This benefit, one of many, represents the Knights of Columbus Coldwell Banker Residential efforts or to make a financial con- commitment to supporting our local community. Other beneficiaries include Veterans, Vocations, Brokerage agents, managers and tribution, please contact your local Birthright, and Christmas Food Baskets. You will see a Red Banner at the corner of Fourth and Maple staff purchased tickets on behalf Coldwell Banker Residential Bro- when a Breakfast is being held. A special thanks to all in the community who supported this worthy of their clients, family, friends and kerage office or call 925.275.3085. cause. Nationally, the Knights of Columbus, last year alone, raised and donated more than $151 million themselves, which were in turn en- All proceeds benefit local Habitat to charitable needs and projects. Knights of Columbus also volunteered more than 69 million hours tered into a drawing for a number for Humanity chapters. of their time to charitable causes.

East Bay EDA Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Positive View for Future

Officers with the East Bay Eco- age State and federal resources on jump starting new industries and The 20th Anniversary Event at in presenting the 2010 East Bay nomic Development Alliance (East behalf of our communities – will promoting economic growth in the Jack London Market in Oak- Indicators report, which the two Bay EDA) celebrated the pub- serve us well as we lead the way Alameda and Contra Costa Coun- land not only served to highlight agencies produced to provide a lic/private partnership’s first two out of the economic difficulties ties. past successes and underscore bold glimpse of the current state of the decades on Thursday, December of the past several years,” said “We look back and see the fruits new initiatives, it also provided East Bay economy and to identify 2, by asserting that several factors Alameda County Supervisor Keith of our labors in the resources we the chance for a formal public economic challenges and oppor- – including the region’s burgeon- Carson, chair of East Bay EDA. helped obtain for the dredging of introduction to Karen Engel, East tunities. ing “green” industries and its pen- the Port of Oakland and, more Bay EDA’s new Executive Direc- The event also featured free chant for innovation – suggest the East Bay EDA was formed recently, to assist workers and tor who took over for Bruce Kern, food, live music and a holiday East Bay is well poised to bounce in 1990, amid another period of suppliers affected by the NUMMI who led East Bay EDA for 20 years gift fair. A video presentation also back from the economic downturn troubled economic times. The plant closure,” Carson said. “We before he retired earlier this fall. was featured highlighting East Bay of the past several years. collaboration it has built between look forward to harnessing our col- Engel was joined by Nicole EDA’s accomplishments in helping “The spirit of collaboration that business, government and the lective resources to take advantage Taylor, President and CEO of the to grow businesses, attract capital energizes this partnership – and nonprofit sector has proven to be a of numerous economic opportuni- East Bay Community Foundation, and create quality jobs. has consistently helped us lever- potent force in helping businesses, ties that should not be missed.” 12 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2010 Community

(Organizations wishing to run notices in ing with native species from mountain lions 9:30 a.m. on the first Saturday of the month Flash games for a chance to win up to $1,199. contacting Sharon at 925-399-5072, or email Bulletin Board, send information to PO Box to hummingbirds including over 30 species between Sept. and May at the Asbury United One session of speed. Free bagels and coffee. [email protected]. 1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care of Bulletin of raptors in captivity. Visitors welcome. For Methodist Church, 4743 East Ave., Livermore. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Session begins at Granada Baptist Church, 945 Concan- Board. Include name of organization, meeting more information visit www.lavgc.org DAR is a women's service organization. The 4:00pm. Must be 18 years old. Bingo Ranch, non Boulevard, Livermore. Services: Sunday date, time, place and theme or subject. Phone Livermore-Amador Genealogy Society, women are descended from a patriot of the 3070 Pacific Ave., Livermore. 606-7777. school – 9:45 a.m.; worship service – 11 a.m. number and contact person should also be meeting 7:30 p.m. Tues., Dec. 14. L-AGS American Revolution and are dedicated to pa- Proceeds go to LVCS/CCEF All are welcome. 1-888-805-7151. included. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday.) members will be the guest speakers sharing triotism, preservation of American history and The Bingo Ranch, 3070 Pacific Ave. in Seventh-day Adventist Church, 243 Family Christmas Posada Celebration, interesting ancestors, interesting incidents securing America's future through education. Livermore and is open Mondays, Wednesday, Scott Street, Livermore. 925-447-5462, ser- Sat., Dec. 11, 7 to 8 p.m. Pleasanton Veterans in research, break-throughs, how to share Information, contact Maris at 443-3087. Thursday, Friday and Saturdays. Buenas Vidas vices on Saturday: Sabbath school 9:30 a.m., Hall, 301 Main St., Pleasanton. Posada fol- research, etc. They will share some of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Youth Ranch has been running Bingo for 16 worship 11 a.m. www.livermoresda.org/ All lowed with refreshments and music/singing & interesting things they have found during their Jose Maria Amador Chapter, Pleasanton, years and is now working with Christensen, are welcome. Pinatas. For Info, call: Jorge Victoria (925-462- research. Others will tell how they share their volunteer women's service organization de- Arroyo Seco and East Ave Schools, and Excep- Stepping Stones on Grief Journey, 6723). Free admission, donations accepted. scended from a patriot of the American Revo- tional Needs Network and All American Sports Grief Ministry bi-monthly sessions, Catholic research with family and friends. Congregation lution. Dedicated to patriotism, preservation Academy Teams. Come play Bingo and support Community of Pleasanton. Dec. 9, 23, Jan Holiday Boutique, Donlon Elementary in Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada Court, Pleasanton. Pleasanton hosts its annual Holiday Boutique of American history and securing America's the kids in Livermore. Call 925-606-7777 for 13, 27, Feb., 10, 11 and Mar. 10, 24, 7:30 For additional information contact: Richard future through better education. For more more information. p.m. St. Elizabeth Seton, 4001 Stoneridge on Saturday, December 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Finn, Program Chairperson Email: program@ in the school's multipurpose room. Admission information, contact [email protected] Dr., Pleasanton. No preregistration required. L-AGS.org or phone 510-507-5509. RELIGION Open to all regardless of religious affiliation. is free. Shop from over 30 handcraft artisans Sentinels of Freedom Welcome Home for jewelry, hand built wooden dollhouses, ClutterLess Self Help Support Group, Unitarian Universalist, 1893 N. Vasco Please call Mary Hagerty, 846-5377, for more festive holiday decor, baby and toddler toys, Ceremony and Reception, hosted by Dublin (CL) is a nonprofit, peer-based, self-help sup- Rd., Livermore. 10:30 a.m. Sunday service. information. sand carved agates, knit and crochet gifts and on Monday, December 27, 2010, at 5:30 p.m. port group for people with difficulty discarding Information 447-8747. A Joyful Christmas concert featuring wearables, gift package adornments, girls' in the Community Room of the Dublin Library unwanted possessions. Meetings in Room 7 at Congregation Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada vocalist Dinah Chapman and concert pianist hair clips, ornaments, tablecloths and runners located at 200 Civic Plaza in Dublin. The 7 p.m. every Monday 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Court, Pleasanton. Information 931-1055. Clayton Foor. Sunday, Dec. 12, 1 pm at Tri-Val- -- and so much more, all handmade. Raffle event will honor all current military personnel St. Mary & St. John Coptic Orthodox Church. Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, affiliated with ley Unity, 2260 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. (over 30 prizes). Holiday Treats Table. All who are home on holiday leave who reside in Room 7, 4300 Mirador Drive, Pleasanton. Just the Congress of Secular Jewish Organizations $20 at the door. Come early for pre-concert proceeds benefit Donlon PFC in its support Dublin, Danville, San Ramon, Blackhawk or come or call our one of the volunteers: 925-200- (csjo.org). Information, Rabbi Judith Seid, festivities 11:30-1:00: Christmas basket raffle of our classrooms. Location is 4150 Dorman Alamo. All those families who have military 1943, or go to www.ClutterLess.org. Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, 485-1049 or East- and holiday refreshments. (925) 829-2733, Rd., Pleasanton. For more info, contact don- serving from these areas are encouraged to Birthright Pregnancy Support Service, BaySecularJews.org. www.trivalleyunity.com [email protected]. submit an Information Request Form. Forms looking an office volunteer to assist clients First Church of Christ, Scientist, Liver- Advent-Christmas Concert presented by Peddler Shoppe has gifts for the holidays. may be submitted online at the City of Dub- weekly on Wednesdays 10-2, and substitute more, has services at 10 a.m. every Sunday St. Michael’s Catholic Church on Fri., Dec. Shop on Sunday, December 12, from 10:30 lin website www.dublin.ca.gov, obtained by office volunteers for all days. Also looking and at 7:30 p.m. on the second Sunday of each 10 at 7:30 p.m. Featured will be the Golden AM until 12:30 PM. The Peddler Shoppe is contacting the City Manager’s Office at (925) for a volunteer CPA to assist annually with month. Sunday School for students (ages 3-20) Gate Boys Choir and Bellringers along with located in the Pleasanton Senior Center, 5353 833-6650, [email protected] (for reviewing books and other related assistance. is held at 10 a.m. every Sunday. The church and the St. Michael’s Music Ministry. Tickets are Sunol Blvd., Pleasanton. It features one of a Dublin residents) or contact your City for For information on a variety of volunteer op- reading room are located at Third and N Streets. $15 adult, $10 senior/student, $5 children kind hand crafted items, lovingly made by more information. portunities, please call John Kupski evenings The Reading Room, which is open to the public, 12 and under, and $35 for a family ticket. Tri Valley seniors. All profits are returned to Clothing Drive - Warm men's clothing at 606-8230. We are presently open M-Tu-Fri features books, CDs and magazines for sale. St. Michael’s is located at 458 Maple St., the community. for homeless veterans, plus men's and women's 10 am-2 pm, Thurs. eve. 6-9 pm, and we are For information, call (925) 447-2946. Livermore. For tickets or information, call New Year's Eve Party, Dec. 31, Liver- business attire for Wardrobe for Opportunity. anxious to reopen on Wed. Birthright offers Faith Chapel Assembly of God, 6656 925-447-1585 x18. more-Pleasanton Elks Lodge 2117, 6:30 p.m. Please bring to Tri-Valley Unity prior to 10 a.m. free pregnancy tests, guidance, adoption and Alisal St., Pleasanton, Sunday School for all A Festival of Carols featuring traditional no host cocktails, 7:30 p.m. dinner followed, service, 2260 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, medical referrals, baby and maternity clothing, ages 9:30 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m., Children’s Christmas music as well as some unusual champagne toasts at both east and west coast or call Michele to make other arrangements, and more. Livermore office at 1520 Catalina Church 11:15 a.m. Women's Bible study arrangements will be held at 5 p.m. Sunday, midnight times, music by DJ Felope, bingo (925) 829-1239. Ct., just behind the Granada Shopping Center, Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Please call office at Dec. 12, at Centerpointe Presbyterian Church, games after dinner. $35 per person. Prepaid Pleasantonians 4 Peace, Peaceful War or call 449-5887. 1-800-550-4900 Hotline 846-8650 for weekly programs. 3410 Cornerstone Court. Performing the music reservations required by Mon., Dec. 27, RSVP Protest will be held on the fourth Wednesday number is staffed 24 hours a day. All Birth- Holy Cross Lutheran Church Sunday will be the Centerpointe choir and the church’s to 455-8829. of the month, December 22 between 5 - 6 at right services are free and confidential. www. Service 9:30 a.m. 1020 Mocho St., Livermore. handbell choir as well as accompanists on Livermore High School Choral Boosters the corners of First and Neal Streets. Please birthright.org Information, 447-8840. strings. The program includes traditional carols "Holiday Bingo Blast," Sat., Dec. 18, Bingo join us if you can. Call Cathe Norman at Toastmasters, Amador Valley group meets United Christian Church, celebrating as well as special readings of the Christmas at Mimi's Cafe, 4775 Hacienda Dr., Dublin, 7 50 years in the Tri-Valley. 1886 College Ave. season, including the Nativity story from Ranch, 3070 Pacific Ave., Livermore. Early (925) 462-7495; Matt Sullivan at mjs7882@ gmail.com; or [email protected]. www. a.m. Thursday mornings. Learn to communi- at M St., Livermore; worships on Sunday Luke 2. A reception will follow the concert session at 3:45 p.m., regular session at 6:30 cate more effectively, improve presentation morning at 10:30 a.m. Children’s program on in the church’s worship center. For additional p.m. Free goodie bags to the first 150 to buy-in. Pleasantonians4Peace.org Pleasanton Senior Center VIP Travel, skills and leadership potential. Contact Hal Sunday morning and first Fridays. The com- information, please see the church’s web site, Holiday caroling by the LHS Chamber Choir Cathedral of Christ the Light, downtown Oak- Brown, 462-2412, for information. munity is welcome. United CC is an Open and www.centerpointechurch.info, or call 925- between sessions. land, Fri., Dec. 17, lunch along the Carquinez Livermore Military Families is a support Affirming ministry. Call 449-6820 for more 846-4436. Valley Spokesmen Bicycle Touring Club, Straits, followed by tour of Lindsay Wildlife group for families in Livermore, who have a information. Livermore Interfaith Christmas Choir Sat., Dec. 11, 20-40 miles Monthly Feather Museum in Walnut Creek. Price includes tour, loved one serving in the Military. It is a safe Bible Study, offered Wednesdays, 7:30 and Art Display - Sunday, December 12 Pedals ride, meet 9:30 a.m. at Blackhawk lunch and motorcoach transportation, $78 per place to come and share the joys, tears and fears to 8:30 PM at the Church of Jesus Christ of – 1501 Hillcrest Ave., Livermore - 6 - 9 pm. 6 Plaza, Danville, Karin Ball, 408-406-2286 person. Sign up at the travel desk, 5353 Sunol they have with others who understand what Latter-day Saints, 6100 Paseo Santa Cruz, - 6:45 Christmas Art Display and Instrumental or Alma Schiefer, 330-2228. Sat., Dec. 11, Blvd., Pleasanton. they are going through. All family members Pleasanton. Refreshments served at no cost. Music. 7-8:15 Choir Performances, which 20 miles Danville Farmers' Market, meet 10 Potluck dinner celebrating election are welcome to attend meetings. Meetings are 925-305-9468. will include numbers from the Unitarian a.m. at Heather Farms, Randy Huey, 518-8439. victories and the season hosted by the Jerry held on the 3rd Thursday of each month at the Trinity, 557 Olivina Ave., Livermore. Universalist Church, St. Charles Borromeo Sun., Dec. 12, 47 miles, Dublin to Moraga McNerney Campaign, the Tri-Valley Demo- home of Cindy Gavello, 2851 Tahoe Drive, Services on Sunday at 8:30, 11 a.m. and 6 Catholic Church, Livermore High School loop, meet 9 a.m. at Shannon Center, Peter cratic Club, the San Ramon Valley Democratic Livermore from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. p.m. with Sunday school or Bible study for Choir, Pleasanton Handbell Choir and the Rathmann, 336-0973. Anyone planning to go Club and the American Muslims and Friends Caregiver Support Group, meets 2nd and all ages at 9:45 a.m. Bible study for adults LDS Church along with audience participation on a ride is asked to call the leader for details Democratic Club on Sat., Dec. 12, 6:30 4th Mondays of each month, 6 to 7:30 p.m. and activities for all ages on Wednesdays at singing favorite Christmas Hymns. The final on where to meet and what to bring. p.m. at the IBEW Hall, 6250 Village Pkwy., Learn new coping strategies and ways to better 6:45 p.m. 447-1848. number of the evening will be the Hallelujah Disability Action Network (DAN) meet- Dublin. The McNerney Campaign is bringing care for yourself. No fee to attend. Hope Hos- Granada Baptist Church, 945 Concan- Chorus sing along. This is a great opportunity to ing, second Thursday of each month at 2:00 the main dish. Please bring appetizers, des- pice Inc., 6377 Clark Ave., Suite 100, Dublin. non Blvd., Livermore. Services: Sunday join together and share the Spirit of Christmas pm, Livermore CRIL office, 3311 Pacific Ave., serts and beverages. Speakers include Rep. 829-8770, www.HopeHospice.com. school 9:45 a.m., worship 11 a.m., Tuesday through music. Holiday refreshments will be Livermore. The Disability Action Network is McNerney and other elected officials. www. Pleasanton Newcomers Club, open to Bible study, 10 a.m. to noon. All are welcome. served following the performances. a group of people with all kinds of disabilities trivalleydems.com. new and established residents of the Tri-Val- 1-888-805-7151. The deaf community is invited to worship who are working together to make changes in Senior Support Program of the Tri-Val- ley. Activities include a coffee on the first Community Bible Study Class, book of at First Presbyterian Church in Livermore, the community. The group works on health care, ley is looking for Volunteer Drivers to transport Wednesday of the month, a luncheon on the Luke will be the topic of study in Pleasanton at where ASL transla®tion will be provided housing, access, attendant programs, transpor- seniors to their medical appointments. The second Wednesday of the month, bunco, Mah Valley Bible Church. CBS is a non-denomina- every Sunday during Advent at 10:30 A.M. tation, and other issues affecting people with Senior Transportation Program supplements Jongg, bridge, walking and hiking groups, tional Bible study ministry open to all women, The church is located on the corner of 4th disabilities. For more information, please call existing public and paratransit services by family activities and monthly adult socials. with a special children's program for ages 0-5 and L streets. Jessica Lehman at (510) 881-5743 x5937. providing rides via volunteer drivers. Vol- Information, call 215-8405 or visit www. years old. The class meets on Thursdays from Lady of Guadalupe Celebration, Sat., M.L. Hummel Club, San Francisco Chap- unteers must have a valid driver’s license, a PleasantonNewcomers.com. 9:30-11:30AM beginning 9/9/10 and goes Dec. 11, 10 a.m. St. Augustine Church, 3900 ter, meets second Saturday of each month at registered vehicle, carry automobile liability Learn Scottish Country dancing at the until 5/12/11. More information about the Bernal Ave., Pleasanton. Information email 1 p.m. at member's home. Guests welcome. insurance, and have a clear DMV record. Please Livermore class of the Royal Scottish Country CBS program and registration available by Maria Espinoza, at the following mariaespi- Topics include sharing of Hummel figurine contact Jennifer Cullen for more information Dance Society, San Francisco Branch. Lively [email protected]. news and information. For information, contact at (925) 931-5387 or email: ja.cullen@yahoo. reels and jigs, graceful strathspeys. All ages. Joan Mumma, club secretary, 447-5164 or com. Funding for this program is provided by Adults Mondays 8 to 9:30 p.m. Livermore www/mumma.org/hummel/ Alameda County Transportation Commission Veteran's Hall, 522 South L St., Livermore; Widowed Men and Women of Northern (Alameda CTC). youth or adult Fridays 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the CA., Bunko and optional dinner in Dublin, 2010 Giving Tree Holiday Giving Tree, Valley Dance Theatre School, 2247 Second Dec. 15, 1 p.m. RSVP by Dec. 12 to Jeanne, sponsored by the Livermore Citizens Police St., Suite B, Livermore. Call Margaret Ward, 361-6110. Happy hour in Pleasanton, Dec. 6, Academy Alumni Association (LPD CPAAA). 449-5932 or Sheena MacQueen, 447-1833. 5:30 p.m., RSVP by Dec. 14 to Marge, 828- The tree will be placed in the Livermore Police Good News Bears, nonprofit with a mis- 5124. Friendly bridge, Dec. 18, 1 p.m., RSVP Department lobby through December 15. The sion to distribute stuffed animals to social by Dec. 14 to Ruby, 462-9636. Mexican Brunch lobby is open 9 am – 5pm Monday – Friday. services, emergency services, medical facili- in Pleasanton, Dec. 19, 11 a.m., RSVP by Dec. The Police Department is located at 1110 S. ties and anyone who needs a hug. Based in 17 to Hilda, 398-8808. Livermore Avenue. Donors select a tag from the Livermore, the group reaches around the Bay Livermore Amador Valley Garden Club tree in the lobby and bring the new unwrapped Area and the world. Volunteers needed to hold will meet Thursday, December 9 at the Alisal gift (with the tag attached) back to the chimney collections of gently used teddy bears and other Elementary School multipurpose room, 1454 – the LPD CPAAA will do the rest. Monetary stuffed animals, assist with fund-raising and Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton, at 6:30 pm (pot donations cannot be accepted. However, deliver the animals to organizations supported luck) with program at 7pm. Jenny Papka, gift cards are always welcome. For more by the group. Meetings 2nd Thursday of the co-director of Native Bird Connections, will information, please call the Livermore Police month, 6:30 p.m. at the Livermore Police Sta- speak on "Inviting Birds into the Garden." Her Department Citizens Police Academy Alumni tion. Log on to www.goodnewsbears.org or call non-profit organization focuses on wildlife Association contact at (925) 371-4710. 373-7982 for more information. education with non-releasable wild birds and Daughters of the American Revolution, Sunday Bingo, All regular game pay-outs employs her twenty years' experience work- Josefa Higuera Livermore Chapter, meets $250. Free game guarantees payout of $350.