VOLUME XLVI, NUMBER 48 Your Local News Source Since 1963 SERVING LIVERMORE • PLEASANTON • SUNOL THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

Livermore to Layoff Staff; Cut Services Faced with the need to cut In the city manager’s office, two The proposed reduction in the state in calculating sales tax continue to decline. We have $3.2 million in spending from its jobs will be gone. Economic de- branch library hours drew pleas payment has resulted in the cur- reached the point where expendi- budget, the City of Livermore, velopment will reduce marketing to the Livermore City Council to rent need for additional cuts. tures outpace income. We have to for the first time, will layoff staff. and travel, expenditures for Poet find a way to keep them open. The city uses a two year bud- reduce services. That also means Services will be reduced. Laureate and the arts commission The libraries in Springtown get cycle. It is now in the second a reduction in employees.” The city will eliminate 43.1 programs, and remove the job of and on Rincon Avenue have been year. When the budget was first Assistant City Manager Troy full time equivalent (FTE) em- a retail consultant. Citywide less open 6 days, 53 hours a week. approved, it was assumed there Brown told the council that all ployees. Currently 31.6 FTE money will be spent on cleaning They will now be open every would be $28.6 million in prop- departments have “trimmed the positions are vacant. The vacant up litter and maintenance. other day, 23 hours a week. The erty taxes and $19.8 million in fat,” eliminating travel, training positions will be eliminated. In the area of public safety, civic center library hours will sales tax coming to the city. As and purchase of supplies. Capital Find Out What's There will be a reduction in there will be a reduction in animal remain the same. of Monday, property taxes were outlay has been deferred, which Happening library hours at branch libraries. control, information technology, Since 2008, Livermore has at $24 million, sales tax at $14.2 means the city will not be replac- The city attorney’s office will re- property and records services. had to cut over $10 million in million ing vehicles. Employee incentive Check out the duce the use of outside legal ser- There would be no reduction in programs and services from its City Manager Linda Barton programs have been removed. second section vices and use of temporary staff. priority level one service calls. budget. A $3.2 million error by stated, “Sales and property taxes (See LIVERMORE, page 4) Section II is filled with in- formation about arts, entertain- ment and special events. There are education stories, a variety of features, and the arts and BART EIR entertainment and bulletin board listings. Looks at Options for Health Care Talks Slated for Extension Lab Retirees Alignments Can Be Lawrence Livermore National Mixed and Matched Laboratory Retirees Association There has been confusion over announced it has scheduled two exactly what the BART program- sets of health care presentations matic environmental impact for retirees on Friday, December report portrays. 4. The presentations will be The EIR looks at nine poten- made by Kaiser and by Extend tial alignments to bring BART Health. Attendance will be free to Livermore and five potential and open to any Lab retiree, in- station sites. According to Marc cluding those who do not belong to the Retirees Association. Roberts, City of Livermore Di- The presentations will be rector of Community develop- made in the Cresta Blanca Room ment, “The EIR looks at worst at Robert Livermore Commu- case scenarios, providing enough nity Center, Livermore. Kaiser information to enable interested representatives are scheduled to parties to evaluate each option. discuss their health programs at The ultimate goal is to select an 8:30 a.m. and again at 1 p.m. alignment. At that time, a project Extend Health representatives environmental review would look are scheduled to present their at the specific impacts of the programs at 10:30 a.m. and again Photo - Doug Jorgensen alignment.” at 3 p.m. Cottage Preschool in Livermore held its annual pre-Thanksgiving celebration. Preschoolers were dressed in headbands and Indian It is possible that the BART The presentations are in- necklaces that they made. In the photo, students entertained visitors with a song about the holiday. board could select a portion of tended to help explain how to one alignment and combine it use the health care plans that are with the portion of another. “The scheduled to start on January study allows you to mix and 1, according to Chuck Meier, match,” according to Roberts. chairmanof the Retirees As- BART Told to Keep Extension on the Freeway As envisioned now, there sociation. That’s particularly The majority of those who loss of property values, increase vide greater access to public About 100 people were on are several at-grade alignments, important for Kaiser, which will transit. hand, with 25 of them speaking. one below and one aerial option. start a new system for Lab retir- commented during a public in crime, visual blight, and an hearing on a BART extension increase in noise that they believe The hearing was held in Liver- There will be another opportunity When it comes to noise, the aerial ees then. Extend Health has also more to take input on a draft made improvements and changes to Livermore were opposed to a would be the result of BART to make comments next Wed., would have the most impact. At environmental impact review that retirees need to understand, station in the downtown. coming into the city. Dec. 2. A hearing will be held grade, the impact would be less Meier said. Several became emotional as Those who supported a down- (DEIR). The DEIR studied nine starting at 6 p.m. at the Robert and could be mitigated with the Both organizations have made they talked about the potential town station, said it would pro- potential alignments. (See HEARING, page 4) use of soundwalls. An under- presentations at fully booked (See EIR, page 4) Retirees Association luncheons, but the many questions that were raised indicated the need for reaching out to larger retiree Portola a Possible Site audiences. Meier said that those who can’t attend may view a vid- For Charter High School eo of the luncheon presentations Livermore School Board Rejects Global Tides Petition at the Retirees Association’s website, http://www.llnlretirees. By Patricia Koning Corporation (LCLC) that over- org/home.html. The trustees of the Livermore sees LVCP and the Livermore Board of Education discussed Valley Charter School (LVCS), two pieces of charter school presented an update on LCLC’s business at the Nov. 17 meet- Proposition 39 request for facili- So. Livermore ing. One was the Proposition ties. He said that LCLC is delay- 39 request for facilities for the ing the submittal of the request to Property Sold to Livermore Valley Charter Pre- give the district and LCLC time paratory (LVCP) high school. to work out details. Ponderosa Homes The second was the Global Tides Proposition 39 stipulates that By Patricia Koning charter petition. local school districts must pro- Floyd Wilson, Executive Di- Bill Bachelor, president of vide charter schools that reside rector of Facilities for the Liver- the Livermore Charter Learning (See CHARTER, page 3) more Valley Joint Unified School District, did not take any chances at last week’s Board of Education meeting. He brought a notary to the meeting to ensure that ev- Zone 7 Votes to Stay erything would be finalized that night on the sale of the District’s South Livermore property. In Bay-Delta Plan “This is one of the best nights By Ron McNicoll Delta. BDCP seems to support I’ve had since I’ve been with Zone 7 Water Agency is re- the dual conveyance. It will give Photo - Doug Jorgensen the Livermore School District,” newing its membership in the us better water downstream,” Pictured at the BRT groundbreaking ceremony are (from left) Livermore Councilmember Marj said Wilson, who will retire in group that is developing the Bay he said. Leider, Pleasanton Councilmember Cindy McGovern, Livermore Mayor Marshall Kamena, Dublin June 2010. Delta Conservation Plan (BDCP). Some 80 percent of Zone 7’s Mayor Tim Sbranti, Alameda County Supervisor Scott Haggerty, Pleasanton Councilmember Jerry After the Board of Education Zone 7 will also continue, for the water comes from the dam at Thorne, Congressman Jerry McNerney, and FTA represntative Ian Eidlin. unanimously approved the sale of the property to Ponderosa Homes next year, as administrator of the Lake Oroville, a part of the State II, Inc. for $6 million, Wilson and contract that supports the group. Water Project. The water goes Jeff Schroeder, the Senior Vice Directors unanimously ap- through the Delta, where it picks Work Begins on Bus Rapid Transit President of Land Acquisition proved extending membership up taste and odor elements and A groundbreaking ceremony Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) The route starts at the national and Development for Ponderosa in the BDCP for two years when salts, which Zone 7 has to treat. was held Monday for a transit would provide faster travel, laboratories in Livermore, stops Homes, signed the contract. they met Nov. 18. The dual conveyance, which program that is expected to re- fewer stops and a more frequent at a variety of locations including The District purchased the Board president Dick Quigley somewhat resembles the pro- duce travel time from Livermore schedule than current bus service. the transit center in downtown 13.55-acre South Livermore reminded the board why Zone 7 posed Peripheral Canal of the to BART in Dublin-Pleasanton It is expected to begin operations Livermore, both BART sta- property, which is located near is involved. “We need to fix the (See ZONE 7, page 4) by twenty percent. in early 2011. (See BRT, page 3) Robertson Park, in 1998 as the site for a new school. The stu- dent population of Livermore did not increase as expected, in Inside Pet of the Week part due to changes to the City of Rosalita is a Dachshund/Chihuahua mix who was picked up Livermore’s General and Master Art & Entertainment...... Section II Short Notes...... 10 as a stray. She is only about 2 years old and is as sweet as Plans, and the new school was pumpkin pie! To meet Rosalita, come to Valley Humane Society Bulletin Board...... Section II never needed. Sports...... 7 at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton, open Tues-Sat from 11AM The California Department of Classifieds...... 10 Obituaries...... 9 to 5PM. Visit the web site www.valleyhumane.org or call 925- Education requires that school districts pay an annual 1% fee of Editorial...... 4 426-8656 for more info. Buy your Holiday Home Tour tickets the assessed value on unused or Mailbox...... 5 today and support homeless pets like Rosalita! Visit the web site for details. (See PROPERTY, page 2) Roundup...... 3 PAGE 2 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 Livermore School Board Approves Retirement Enhancement Package, Extra Compensation for Assistant Superintendents By Patricia Koning tage of the package. Ultimately, Classified Managers/Confiden- she will begin using accumulated also approved $20,000 for con- already approved for recruiting a The trustees of the Livermore that would will cost the district tials, the Livermore Management vacation on Dec. 21. sulting fees that will be paid to new Superintendent, the District Board of Education approved a more. This means that Miller, Association, and Superinten- On Nov. 17, the Board of Miller for help developing the will realize an estimated $24,852 retirement enhancement pack- who is retiring effective Feb. 1, dents. Education approved $17,000 2010/11 school year budget in in savings. The Cosca Group, age that could generate savings 2010, qualifies for the package. If 50 certificated, 30 clas- in additional compensation for the spring. who is conducting the executive of $615,500 to $1.1 million. The Another incentive for LEA sified, four management, and Martinez, who will serve as the The remainder of Miller’s search, states that a new Super- decision came at the Nov. 17 members is the drop in retiree one confidential FTE retire, the interim Superintendent. Bowers salary through the end of the intendent should be in place by meeting. Employees who accept health benefits from $10,000 to package will generate $618,510 will receive $12,000 and Kinder school year is $115,852. After April. the package will receive a one- $7,500 annually, effective July in savings over normal attrition. will receive $7,000. The Board the personnel costs and $35,000 time $6,000 payment if they are 1, 2010. Employees who are With 60 certificated FTE and the between the ages of 50 and 59. considering participating in the same numbers from the other Retirees who are at least 60 years package must inform Human groups that number increases PROPERTY old will receive $7,000. Resources by January 15, 2010 to $1.1 million. The savings is (continued from page one) “We’re viewing this as a with a final decision by Feb. 1. generated by the salary differen- trade-off to layoffs,” said Su- For the package to generate ad- tial between a retiring employee surplus sites. The intent behind District was free to request bids “We are actively negotiating with perintendent Brenda Miller. The equate savings, at least 50 mem- and new hire. this requirement is to discourage from private entities. Four formal Ponderosa Homes to see what we hope is that encouraging older bers of the Livermore Education Trustee Chuck Rogge ex- school districts from being in the proposals were eventually sub- can do together there.” teachers to retire will save the Association (LEA), the teachers’ pressed concern about the Dis- real estate business. The South mitted; the District chose Pon- The money for the property jobs of some newer teachers, who union, must participate. If 50 trict’s ability to replace so many Livermore property is assessed derosa Homes’ bid because it best will be paid in two increments. are the first to go in a layoff. The LEA members do not participate, senior teachers. “In the past when at $8.9 million, which translates reflects the needs of the District. Ponderosa placed a $100,000 District is expecting to lay off the offer will be withdrawn. we’ve had to hire 40 or 50 teach- into an annual liability of $89,000 Ponderosa was brought into the down payment into an escrow more teachers this spring. Assistant Superintendent ers we’ve never had a problem,” for the District. process by LARPD. account last week. The balance “I’m very much in favor of Mike Martinez said that of the said Martinez. “However, in this The District began the process “We are very happy with this of nearly $6 million will be paid maintaining as many of our 166 eligible LEA members, 61 job market, we’d likely find a lot of selling the property in April property. It is a great opportu- when the City of Livermore’s younger teachers as possible,” are age 61.5 or older. Those of experienced teachers.” 2007, first advising government nity,” said Schroeder. “We plan planning commission approves said trustee Bill Dunlop. “They teachers have already attained Extra Compensation entities of the pending sale. The to work with LARPD on the the new use of the land. will be the core of our long term the maximum retirement ben- for Assistant Livermore Area Recreation and development to create something Schroeder said that process staff.” efit under the California State Superintendents Park District (LARPD) expressed that works for them. We look will likely take 9 to 12 months, as To be eligible, employees Teachers Retirement System When Superintendent Brenda interest but ultimately did not forward to building houses on the property was originally zoned must have five years of service (CALSTRS). Miller retires on Dec. 21, her have sufficient resources. The this property someday.” for school use. The proceeds credit with the District, have Martinez presented data on duties will be distributed among Livermore Charter Learning Cor- Scott Kamena, who serves on from the sale must be used for turned 55 by June 30, 2010, and normal attrition. Typically each Mike Martinez, the Assistant poration (LCLC) also pursued the LARPD Board of Directors, capital improvements. “We have retire between July 1, 2009 and year 20 certificated, 10 classi- Superintendent of Administrative the property as a site for both said that they are very excited a backlog of $85 to $100 million June 30, 2010. Assistant Superin- fied, two management, and one Services, Kelly Bowers, the As- the Livermore Valley Charter about the chance to expand park in capital improvement projects tendent Kelly Bowers explained confidential full-time employee sistant Superintendent of Educa- School (K-8) and Livermore facilities, especially in that loca- that we don’t have money for that the benefit is being offered (FTE) retire. The package is tion Services, and Susan Kinder, Valley Charter Preparatory (high tion because of its proximity to right now,” said Wilson. “So retroactively. Otherwise teachers being offered to all employee the Executive Director of Fiscal school). Robertson Park and the Main- we have plenty of uses for this who have already indicated that groups: LEA, Service Employees Services, until a replacement is After no other government tenance Service Center. “It’s re- money.” they will retire by the end of the International Union, California found. Miller’s effective retire- agency expressed meaning- ally an ideal place for us to have calendar year delay taking advan- School Employees Association, ment date is Feb 1, 2010, but ful interest in the property, the additional acreage,” he added. The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 - PAGE 3 VALLEY ROUNDUP

Garamendi on Committees the Livermore Police Department. An electrician Congressman John Garamendi, (D-Walnut was brought in. Power has already been restored Creek, California), announced that the House to the irrigation controllers. Work is still needed Democratic Steering Committee has approved to repair the lighting system. All night practices recommendations to appoint Garamendi to the and games have been canceled until repairs are House Transportation and Infrastructure Com- complete. The damage and repairs are estimated mittee and House Science and Technology Com- to be a loss of $25,000 to $30,000, with repairs mittee. The full Democratic Caucus is expected expected to take about a week. to approve these recommendations at its next If any members of the public has any meeting. knowledge about this crime, please contact the “I am absolutely delighted to have this op- Livermore Police Department at 925-371-4900. portunity to create quality transportation and LARPD encourages neighbors around parks and technology jobs for residents of the 10th Con- ball fields to be observant of activities around the gressional District and Northern California,” park and call the police to report any suspicious Congressman Garamendi said. “I want to thank activity. my colleagues for assigning me to the House Transportation and Infrastructure and House Science and Technology committees.” Traffic Enforcement Funds “I look forward to sitting on the House Sci- More traffic enforcement and safer streets ence and Technology Committee, where I will be are coming to Livermore beginning this month able to steer federal assistance and policy to the thanks to a recent $103,750 grant awarded by critical research potential of Lawrence Livermore the California Office of Traffic Safety. Increased Photo - Doug Jorgensen National Laboratory, Sandia National Laborato- special traffic enforcement measures are on tap The 2nd Annual “Put A Little Love in Your Heart” fundraiser for Open Heart Kitchen was held ries, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and for the Livermore Police Department as law en- last Thursday at Blacksmith Square in downtown Livermore. Live music was provided by: Roger the University of California, the Joint Genome forcement continues its commitment to keeping Kardinal. There was wine tasting and appetizers. In the photo, those attending took part in a Institute, and other regional labs and universi- roadways safe through both enforcement and silent auction. For more information about Open Heart Kitchen, call 925 580-6793 or go to www. ties,” said Garamendi. education. openheartkitchen.org. “The safety of our community remains our top priority and that means safer driving conditions Pleasanton Military Families for our motoring public”, said Lt. Mike Peretti, Remembered grant director for this project. “Lives continue BRT Congressman Jerry McNerney (CA-11) spoke to be unnecessarily lost or impacted by improper (continued from page one) on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives driving habits and the Livermore Police Depart- to recognize Pleasanton Military Families, a tions in Dublin-Pleasanton, and “BRT will be used to bring em- my taste,” he declared. ment will not tolerate it”. eventually ends at Stoneridge ployees to work sites, students to The Federal Transit Authority group that organizes welcome home celebrations The goal of the Vehicle Impound Program for returning servicemembers, sends care pack- Mall in Pleasanton. The use of schools, shoppers to stores, and was represented at the ground- (VIP) grant is to assist in efforts to deal with bus signal priority would keep ages to troops overseas, and provides support to increased traffic safety problems and reduce the those going to medical appoint- breaking by Eric Eidlin, a com- the families of active military personnel. number of persons killed and injured in traffic lights green for the bus. During ments,” Thorne continued. From munity planner. He said that the His remarks included the following: “The collisions. The grant activities will specifically peak hours, buses would arrive an environmental view, the buses FTA is historically responsible Pleasanton Military Families leads a public target DUI Enforcement, suspended or unli- at stops every 10 minutes and use clean, hybrid technology. for funding rail systems, such as recognition program for our service members censed drivers and motorcycle safety. This will other times during the day every There is a low floor design that BART. The interest in funding by hanging yellow streamers along Main Street be done through the implementation of strate- 15 minutes. BRT is an interim makes it easier for the elderly and BRT is that it provides an off- marked with the names of residents serving in gies which may include DUI/driver’s license solution to a full BART extension disabled to board the buses. Each rail-like ride at a much lower our Armed Forces. My family was honored that checkpoints, special enforcement operations, and to Livermore. bus has a bike rack. cost. The system costs $22 mil- the Pleasanton Military Families hung a yellow educational efforts. Bids on the project have come Congressman Jerry McNer- lion, including the new buses. A pennant for my son Michael while he was serving The grant also provides funding for overtime in 62 percent below the original ney was described as having been rail project would cost hundreds in the Air Force. to conduct special enforcement activities. engineering estimates. “It’s a re- instrumental, along with former of millions and even billions, “In addition, Pleasanton Military Families New this year is the addition of special ally good time to bid out public Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher, he added. In addition, there are holds warm welcome home ceremonies and Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operations. works project,” declared Pleas- in obtaining the federal funding. enhanced amenities at the BRT sends packages to troops overseas. All of these Motorcycle fatalities have been on the rise in anton City Councilmember Jerry McNerney said it was im- stops, such as benches, a shelter, efforts to support our active duty personnel and California, increasing 175 percent statewide in Thorne, chairman of Livermore bike racks, and a flag sign indi- their families give due honor to the sacrifice and portant to have local officials he the last decade, from 204 killed in 1998 to 560 Amador Valley Transit Author- could work with to obtain fund- cating when the next bus is due service of these young men and women. killed in 2008. “I urge my colleagues to join me in recogniz- ity. ing. “This is a very important to arrive. Livermore Police Officers will be conducting He said of the project, “It took project. It will take 400,000 cars Supervisor Scott Haggerty ing the Pleasanton Military Families for their specialized enforcement efforts throughout the dedication and commitment to our men and a real partnership between many off the road each year. It is an thanked a variety of people for course of the next year. Extra officers will be on levels of government to fund this investment well made.” their efforts in making BRT a women in uniform." duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcycles. project.” The federal govern- The federal funds came reality. He called the system, “A Officers will be cracking down on traffic viola- ment provided $11 million, State Park Vandalized tions made by motorcyclists and other vehicle through the regular transit budget viable commute option for our Sometime between Saturday afternoon and drivers that result in too many motorcycle colli- Measure 1B $1.1 million, county process. Asked about stimulus citizens. Community consensus Monday morning, the lighting system at Rob- sions, injuries and deaths. and local funds accounted for the funds for a BART extension to was achieved to allow BRT to ertson Park’s sand-based soccer complex was Funding for this program was provided by a remainder of the $13.8 million. Livermore, McNerney said there move forward.” Haggerty also vandalized, and copper wiring was stolen. Staff grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety Thorne said BRT would bring is money available. He would noted that none of the ground- for the Livermore Area Recreation and Park through the National Highway Traffic Safety transportation, economic and en- like to see it come to this area. breaking festivities were paid for District discovered the vandalism on Monday Administration. vironmental benefits that would McNerney said he doesn’t expect by tax dollars. about 12:15 p.m. when inspecting the complex improve the quality of life of the BART extension to take the The Nighthawk Jazz Band for the day’s activities. Correction those living in the area. “The fast, predicted 10 to 25 years to reach from Las Positas College pro- Pull boxes along the wiring run were opened The article on Nottingham Cellars in the Nov. frequent service we believe will Livermore. “That is too long for vided the entertainment. and wires were cut and, in some cases, pulled out. 19 edition of The Independent stated "We are increase ridership. Maybe we can Nearly every pull box around the soccer fields essentially leasing space from Cedar Mountain." lure some of the people off the had been tampered with. Because of this damage, That is incorrect. Cedar Mountain does not lease freeway,” he added. there was no electrical power to the irrigation space. Nottingham Cellars processes wine at Economic benefits include controllers or to the field lights. Cedar Mountain's facilities. 120 construction jobs. About LARPD has contacted, and filed a report with, 63 percent of the money will go to Alameda County businesses.

CHARTER (continued from page one) within their boundaries with sub- Middle School, which would be- tricts for an online K-12 school. specific aspects of the program, stantially equivalent facilities. In come a K-8 site like Joe Michell Alameda County is the only Bay such as the governance structure, 2005, the Livermore Valley Joint School. Such a move would ful- Area county to receive the peti- employee qualifications, health Unified School District gave fill the State-mandated require- tion, which was sent to 14 dif- and safety, and special educa- LVCS the Sonoma School site, ment to substantially change the ferent counties. The Dublin and tion. which formerly housed Adult governing structure of Portola, a Pleasanton school districts also McHaney said the financial Education to meet the require- result of the school being in Year rejected the petition, along with documents were the most com- ment. A decision on the site for 4 of Program Improvement (PI). many districts across the states pelling weakness of the petition. LVCP is expected by spring. A decision by the Board on the such as Hemet, Rocklin, Orange, “They were wholly inadequate,” LVCP will open at the start of fate of the Portola site is expected Riverside, and Los Alamitos. she explained. “The revenues the 2010/11 year with a freshman by mid-March. “To approve a charter school were overstated and the expenses class of 110 students. One idea LCLC and the Livermore petition, it must present a sound understated. They would be was to house the LVCP students School District also are exploring educational program that is likely operating in the red right out of in classrooms at either Livermore other options besides Portola that to succeed,” said Jackie McHaney the chute.” or Granada High School. “I think would be suitable for LVCP. of Thurbon and McHaney, the The District’s findings are both sides agree that shared use Global Tides Petition District’s legal counsel. “This is a summarized in a 51-slide pre- at one of the high schools would Rejected decision that should be carefully sentation that is available at be very problematic,” Bachelor The Board also voted unani- considered because you are hand- www.livermoreschools.com in said. “We have discussed the mously to reject the charter ing over the keys to the education the agenda for the Nov. 17, Portola site as an option. I am school petition submitted by of those children. Ninety-one 2009 Board meeting. Among confident that my board can make Global Tides @ Alameda County. cookie cutter petitions really the problems, the petition stated that work.” There were no representatives raises a red flag.” that all teachers would meet the At the Oct. 6 Livermore Board from Global Tides at last week’s School districts have five definition of “highly qualified” of Education meeting, assistant meeting or the public hearing criteria they can use to deny a according to No Child Left Be- superintendent Mike Martinez held on Oct. 6. No one spoke charter school petition; District hind, but of the six teachers who presented a plan for closing Por- in support of the petition at that staff found that the Global Tides signed the petition, only one has tola Elementary School at the end hearing. petition did not meet three of the necessary certification. The of this school year and moving On Sept. 4, Global Tides sub- those criteria. Superintendent petition also indicates a class the students to Junction Avenue mitted petitions to 91 school dis- Brenda Miller recommended that size of between 82 to 90 students the Board deny the petition on the per teacher, well in excess of grounds that it presents an un- state law. sound educational program, that For more information on Char- County Will Present Report the petitioners are demonstrably ter School Development Systems, unlikely to successful implement which created Global Tides, visit For Greener Living Dec. 1 the program, and that the petition http://charterschooldevelopment Alameda County planning their suggestions. The report is lacks responsibly specific com- systems.com. staff will present a review of ideas intended to help the county form prehensive descriptions of certain gathered from South County resi- its pollution reduction policy dents about what can be done by in unincorporated areas to help individuals and local government meet global warming improve- to curb climate change. The effort ment standards. is known as the Community Ac- The ideas at the previous tion Plan (CAP). meetings focused on such things The Valley presentation will as making it easier to finance take place from 6 p.m.. to 8 p.m. solar panels for homes and busi- Dec. 1 at the Martinelli Event nesses, planting low-water plants Center, 3585 Greenville Road, in yards, improving the frequen- Livermore. There will be a sec- cy of Wheels bus service, and ond public review in Hayward promoting ride-sharing. from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 2 at Minutes of the previous meet- Eden United Church of Christ, ings are available at the county’s 21455 Birch St. web page, acgov.org. Go to the The draft report providing green box in the upper right cor- grass-roots suggestions about liv- ner, click on “Alameda County ing greener will be distributed at Community Climate Action the meetings. They are the result Plan,” and then scroll down to of meetings held in September, “documents”. There is also a in which people sat in small slide show there that outlines the discussion groups and offered various conservation categories.

PAGE 4 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 EIR (continued from page one)

EDITORIAL ground alignment would have the and Junction Avenue would ne- One of the key issues BART a community,” said Roberts. He least impact. There are two types cessitate digging up the streets. would consider in determining added that BART does increase Save The Air Race of noise connected with BART. A cut and cover process is used. the location of stations and the the number of people in an area. It’s estimated that Bay Area motorists riding alone One is referred to as “wheel “The area would be a construc- alignment has to do with poten- That does have an impact on make seven million trips every day, most by commut- squeal,” which occurs when tion zone for 12 to 24 months,” tial development. the number of calls for service. trains go in and out of curves. said Roberts. The trench would The downtown specific plan However, people don’t get off of ing to and from work. The second is wind created by be 40 to 50 feet wide, which allows 3200 units. Downtown a train, steal a TV, jump back on Though a special fast lane is available to carpools, the train itself. would still allow cars to use the already has sufficient units within the train and go home. “If that and though carpools can cross the bridges toll-free, If you already live near the right-of-way, which is 110 feet a half mile to meet the criteria. were the case, the police would the carpool lanes are used by only 17% of Bay Area freeway or a railroad track, the wide. If the downtown were combined just have to wait on the platform impacts would differ very little. The City of Livermore is cur- with a station with development to arrest them,” said Roberts. vehicles. They can be mitigated, according rently conducting workshops to potential, such as Vasco, it would When it comes to a downtown Hoping to spur carpools and other alternatives to to Roberts. design the stations. be unlikely that more units would station, Roberts said it would solo driving, such as transit, and bikes, the Bay Area Track siting can also have an Roberts said that the sta- be required. Development at receive more attention from the tions need to be appropriately some of the other stations is police, because it is easier to Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) spon- impact on noise levels. Roberts points out that new homes built designed for their surroundings. constrained by the UGB, free- patrol. The presence of officers sors a two-month summer “Spare the Air Race.” Our at grade along the railroad tracks For example, in the downtown, way, airport protection area, and would deter crime. “When Chief Tri-Valley is an active participant. already have sound walls. On the the amount of parking would be quarries, for example. Sweeney looked at the data, there The results of this past summer’s competition have other side of the tracks in older relatively small. A downtown sta- The Greenville and Isabel/I- was very little difference in crime areas of the city, there are mainly tion would match the architecture 580 stations are adjacent to the before and after a station was just been announced. Among the winners are Kaiser wooden fences. Soundwalls and style of the downtown, while urban growth (UGB). In addition, built,” said Roberts. Permanente of Pleasanton, the Hacienda Business Park would have to be added. That a station located elsewhere in the Isabel is impacted by the scenic Pleasanton has expressed Owners Association, and the City of Pleasanton. would provide two benefits. It community would match its sur- corridor ordinance, as well as concerns about an alignment that Fourteen Tri-Valley businesses participated, with would take out the BART sound. roundings. the airport protection area. The goes down El Charro and through It would also be helpful in reduc- Most of the criteria for se- Stanley/Isabel site is outside of the quarry area. There have been CO2 savings four times that of last year. ing noise impacts from the train lecting an alignment is cumula- the UGB. It would require a vote meetings with Pleasanton to This race is a way to fight smog and have fun. Kudos traffic that uses the tracks now. tive over the entire route. In a by Livermore residents to move gain an understanding of their to BAAQMD and all the winners and participants. You If BART were to come into multiple station alignment, each the UGB. concerns. In addition, a third station would contribute some Crime is another issue that has public hearing will be scheduled are making a difference. Livermore, the concern has been what happens to people who have benefit to the overall extension. come up at hearings. Roberts said in January to take comments As Lisa Fasano of BAAQMD observed, “Anytime homes near the tracks. There There is potential for transit ori- that Police Chief Steve Sweeney from Pleasanton residents on we can encourage people to reduce their use of single would be a need to build grade ented development at the Vasco plans a presentation at the next the EIR. occupancy vehicles, by taking transit or joining a car- separated facilities for BART, site and the Greenville site. While station workshop on Dec. 10 on Asked about the potential for possibly the ACE train, and the Greenville has a conditional TOD what he has found. three stations: Isabel, downtown pool, is a win for air quality. ... These organizations regular train traffic. Roberts said designation in the city’s general (The meeting begins at 6 p.m. and Vasco, Roberts said, “That that each segment is different. plan, Roberts said the studies are at the Shrine Event Center in would take an additional chunk One place is very tight. Others finding that the units would be Livermore.) of dollars. The trick is to add range from 100 to 200 feet wide. difficult to build within the half “He looked at stations and new ridership. There would be “At grade, it may be necessary mile walking radius. The urban talked to BART officials. He questions about whether that LIVERMORE to acquire some of the adjacent growth boundary and the freeway found that stations reflect the would occur with three stations. (continued from page one) properties, including homes,” limit the possibilities. “Plus, it is communities in which they are The pricetag for two stations is he stated. not a very nice walking environ- located. If there were no prob- already fairly dramatic given Early separation packages have on Sundays and both branches on An underground alignment ment. That does matter. If there lems in a community, there would the need to build the yard and been offered. Maintenance has Mondays; then keep them open would eliminate that need. were a nice environment, people be no problems at stations. BART purchase new vehicles.” been reduced “across the board.” However, the proposed under- would walk further,” commented does not change the character of other days. “We need those small Roberts. All temporary positions are libraries,” she declared. ground alignment down Portola gone. Barton explained that the phi- Both Barton and Brown men- losophy behind retaining current HEARING tioned the contribution of em- hours at the civic center library (continued from page one) ployee bargaining groups in was that there would always be Livermore Community Center, making the cuts. Employees have the greatest potential for TOD. Noise was also an issue raised would be a parking shortfall a library open in the city. The 4444 East Avenue. In addition, they both connect to by David Williams. He suggested if the station were built in the stepped up to increase contribu- branches would be open alternate The eventual outcome will be tions to retirement. They have the ACE train, meeting another a recording be made of BART on downtown. Raymond added days. the selection of a preferred align- agreed there will be no cost of goal of providing intermodal an elevated track and then played that it is important to build the Sue Gallinger, head of library ment to bring BART to Liver- connections. living increase in wages. at the next hearing. He declared, Isabel/I-580 station. services, said, “We did not want more. Three alignments end at When asked what the time “That would get rid of five of Bob Baltzer supported a route Barton said, “The employees Greenville Road, two go to Vasco frame was for the extension, the have made significant and impor- to close any library completely. your suggested routes.” that came through the downtown Road near the current ACE sta- reply was 10 to 25 years. BART Henry Shay pointed out that tant contributions to enable us to The branches will still provide a and ended at Vasco Road. “It is tion, two terminate in the down- board member John McPartland the Greenville terminus would the only option that comes close close the budget gap.” full range of services, including town. These options would have storyhour.” She said consider- said his commitment was to take the greater amount of traf- to meeting MTC requirements Brown told the council that two stations. Both the Greenville speed up the process. “For today, ation was given to closing the fic off of I-580. Land is already for TOD,” he pointed out. If the staff continues to pursue produc- and Vasco routes include one that our mission is to give a good available there for a maintenance civic center library on Sundays. route were only along the free- tivity improvements. “We are not goes through the downtown. Sev- listening to what you have to say. yard. Shay suggested that the way, there would be no TOD and out of the woods yet. The state However, it is the busiest day and eral going through the downtown BART has no vested interest in assumption people would walk it brings the prospect of attempts is predicting a $15 to $25 billion the least costly to keep open. leave the freeway at El Charro any of the alignments,” he said. to BART if it came into the to overturn the urban growth shortfall next year.” Councilmember Marj Leider and go through the quarry area. The public weighed in follow- downtown is invalid. “Only a boundary. He called the Isabel/I- The concern is that the state suggested that closing the Rincon One exits the freeway near Las ing the presentation on potential small fraction would walk from 580 the “worst possible option.” will once again come after local Branch leaves students in a low Positas Blvd.; another goes along routes. the 2000 units there. You would There would be no TOD and no funds in an effort to balance the income area without access to Portola and Junction Avenue into Bonnie Hamilton stated, “I am have to build a very large parking ACE connection. state budget. Barton pointed out, computers to use for homework the downtown. concerned about the impact of garage. Any option other than the Clark Streeter said he felt that “We have managed our dollars There are also two one-station BART going through Livermore freeway would be more costly a lot of people would use public assignments. She was concerned alignments. One goes down I-580 well. Forces outside our control about the impact. on a precious species - myself. I and attract more controversy.” transit if there were a station are impacting local budgets.” and ends at Isabel and I-580, live near the railroad tracks. The Martin Eisenberg offered a downtown, including himself. Gallinger said that Rincon the other uses El Charro, goes Steve Stewart, president of the possibility that BART would totally different viewpoint. He Kathy Streeter talked about would still provide the home- through the quarry area and stops Municipal Employees Negotiat- use the railroad right-of-way has had previously lived near the crime potential. She noted that work program. Students would at Isabel and Stanley Blvd. already had a negative impact on BART Rockridge Station. “I when a station came into down- ing Association, addressed the miss one day, Tuesday. Each of the two station align- council. He represents the largest me. People in Livermore want am excited about a station in town Hayward, crime dropped. One speaker suggested vol- ments is predicted to add 30,000 BART to stay where it belongs, number of Livermore employees. downtown Livermore. One thing She said that downtown to Vasco unteers be used to run the librar- riders to the system. The one on the freeway.” Stewart stated, “Our members missing there is public transit. makes the most sense, with its ies. station alignments would add Her comments drew applause made a real tough decision. We If BART only came along the opportunity for TOD. She stated, 20,000. “There would be signifi- and a few boos. freeway, as soon as parking lots voted to contribute the highest Mayor Marshall Kamena “Whenever change is proposed, cant improvements in traffic on Kent Franklin worried that an were full, they become useless. It people get nervous. They only amount per employee in conces- pointed out that replacing some- I-580,” according to the DEIR. aerial alignment would impact is not really BART to Livermore. look at the short term impacts, sions. Nine and a half of the 11 one’s job by a volunteer who (The study allows decision works for free is not something privacy. He said the extension It would be for those from Tracy not the long term benefits. Don’t positions to be eliminated are our maker to mix and match the should be parallel to the free- that he would support. “It is and Stockton.” He added that let fear make up your minds. members.” He asked the council alignments.) way. a downtown station should be difficult to close libraries. They Economic development is good to make sure there are no other One of the criteria MTC Linda Jeffrey Sailors won- underground. for everyone. It brings money in options, such as use of the reserve would be the first to return to has established evaluating the dered if the DEIR took into Valerie Raymond questioned for things we want.” funds, to avoid layoffs. service when monies are avail- strength of future stations is consideration previous studies the projected TOD for the down- The comment period on the Using one time money, such able.” the amount of transit oriented that looked at an intermodal con- town. She suggested that it would DEIR ends Dec. 21, 2009. Writ- as reserves to retain services or Resident Clarence Hoenig development (TOD) that could nection at Greenville Road. She be “cheating” to count units ten comments can be sent to: employees, could be an option if suggested the city consider a par- be built within a half mile of the also wondered whether eminent outside the half-mile radius that BART Planning Department, the city knew what the next year cel tax to fill the budget gap. station. The more that can be domain would be used to take MTC uses to judge TOD. Within Attn. Malcolm Quint, 300 Lake- would look like. Councilmember Councilmember Jeff Williams built, the more likely a station both homes and businesses to the half-mile area are single fam- shore Dr., Oakland, CA 94612; John Marchand made that obser- would receive funding through provide right of way. Sailors ily homes, schools and churches. or by email to info@barttoliver- said that some of the city’s advi- MTC. The Vasco and downtown vation, noting that the problem is sory boards may be energized to wanted to make sure that any In addition, she predicted there more.org. stations are considered to have noise impact was mitigated. the state has failed to address its raise money to put back into the budget problems. Next year may system. be twice as bad. “I have no better ZONE 7 Barton said city staff is al- (continued from page one) ideas than staff has proposed to ready moving forward with ideas 1980s, would carry water around Zone 7’s influence on the BDCP. close the city’s budget gap.” on how to make changes in the were put there, as has been students could travel via Shadow Mayor Marshall Kamena or under the Delta, to Zone 7 and General manager Jill Duerig said suggested, “We could integrate Cliffs’ paddle boats to the area city to reduce spending in the the other 28 state water contrac- added, “It’s very, very tough to let that is unlikely, because Zone 7 the environment and water into along the cliff walls of the former future. Five teams of employees tors. Obtaining better water qual- has membership on several key people go. I can’t support using something that might be pretty Kaiser quarry. There they can see are working on “Transforming ity would cut expenses for Zone committees and authorities in reserves for ongoing expenses. If special.” the separations in the aquifers. 2010.” The teams will look at 7, because less money would the BDCP. The Department of Water “Re- things get worse, reserves would They could also see the siphon such things as better and active have to be spent on treating wa- On another item, the board sources has interpretative centers that pulls water out of the Arroyo provide a lift.” use of volunteers, the potential ter, said Quigley. voted unanimously to save more at Oroville, San Luis Reservoir Del Valle and into Shadow Cliffs, Springtown resident Linda to share or buy services from San Francisco and East Bay than $100,000 of staff time an- and Pyramid Lake. We could put said Lunn. Avila said she was “shocked” by other agencies; and green issues Municipal Utilities District, nually by eliminating the staff’s one where the water slides would Visual experiences like those whose water is viewed by many the cutback in library hours at the to reduce energy costs. quarterly task of providing fi- have been,” said Quigley. can provide science students and Valley residents as superior to nancial updates to the board. Springtown branch. “It is used by In addition, there will be Director Bill Stevens said that others in the public with a good that of Zone 7, doesn’t send their Director Steve Kalthoff made the families and the elderly. Many of more citizen input into the next maybe formation of “Friends of sense of how the mechanics of the elderly cannot get to the civic water through the Delta. They suggestion. Director Chris Moore the Chain of Lakes” is in order. water work in the Valley, said budget. Barton said, “Staff wants have had their own pipelines for center library. Kids need to have agreed it’s time to eliminate the He thought that although most of Lunn. to change how we proceed and decades. report. He noted that when the the libraries open. It is a place the mined-out gravel pits won’t Lunn was honored by the to engage the community re- The dual conveyance would report was first requested five to check out books they cannot be acquired until a few years board at its meeting in October. garding its services and budget also have the ability to deliver years ago, by Jim Kohnen, who from now, it may be time to have afford to buy.” She suggested Palmer said then that she first priorities.” more water to the state water was a director then, there was the public become more aware of knew Lunn many years ago, closing the civic center library contractors. not the level of oversight by the the future water and flood control when as a teacher she brought Zone 7 has been acting as board that exits now. Moore cited resources. students to Zone 7. “He worked an administrator for the BDCP. more frequent finance committee Along those lines, David with many of my students, pro- It collects a fee for the service. meetings as an example. Lunn, who retired in October moting water education. He was However, the agency would like Friends of Shadow Cliffs re- after 29 years on Zone 7’s en- a repository of knowledge of our to move out of that duty, said ceived a plug from Quigley, who gineering staff, told The Inde- zone,” she said. Publisher: Joan Kinney Seppala assistant general manager Kurt is a member of it. The group is pendent this week that Shadow Quigley said, “I worked with Associate Publisher: David T. Lowell Arends. He said it’s likely that (INLAND VALLEY PUBLISHING CO.) Editor: Janet Armantrout considering uses for a patch of Cliffs would offer an excellent Dave (privately on trail matters) that will be possible in the next land near Shadow Cliffs that was teaching opportunity to the pub- for 10 years before I got on the six months. An individual paid by The Independent is published every Thursday by Inland Valley Publishing Company, 2250 First St., to be occupied by an expanded lic to show how the water basin board. I ran largely because of Livermore, CA 94550; (925) 447-8700. Application to Mail at Periodical Postage Prices Pending at the the BDCP is the likely successor, Livermore Post Office and additional mailing offices. The Independent is mailed upon request. Go to www. water slide business. The project is managed. his urging. We worked on many independentnews.com to sign up and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The he explained. Independent, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550. fell through. Lunn, who for years was trail projects in the Valley. He has Director Sarah Palmer asked Quigley said that if a water Advertising rates and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (925) 447-8700 supervisor of the underground knowledge that’s unsurpassed. during regular business hours or by fax: (925) 447-0212. whether giving up the administra- information interpretive center reservoir for Zone 7, said that He will be missed at Zone 7.” Editorial information may be submitted by [email protected]. tive paperwork would diminish The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 - PAGE 5 Woman With Recovery House Livermore Residents Given Hopes to Save it from Foreclosure Preview of High Speed Rail By Ron McNicoll By Ron McNicoll living sober fully on their own. Like the others, Nicole fol- meetings of the Rail Policy Taxpayers Association, have Valley residents were given There are happy endings when Seyda said that her own experi- lows the house rules, which Group. The politicians include said that the cost estimates by the include regular attendance at a close-up look at what bringing it comes to saving homes from ence in recovery from drugs and Livermore Mayor Marshall Ka- authority are not realistic. It will foreclosure in the Valley. 12-step recovery meetings. She a high-speed train here would alcohol convinced her to start the mena, Pleasanton Mayor Jennifer cost many billions more. Senior citizen Joan Lennon facility, because she saw there also attends a church fellowship mean when two consultants to Hosterman, and Alameda County SEEKING BASIC of Livermore has found one of was no other transitional housing that is welcoming to people in the California High-Speed Rail Supervisor Scott Haggerty. INFORMATION those happy endings, thanks to for women in recovery in the Val- recovery. Authority (CHSRA) appeared at CONGRESS MEMBERS At the Livermore meeting, a reverse mortgage negotiated ley. She said that Livermore does “We’re all supportive of each a scoping meeting. SEEK FUNDS people asked questions about by Maggie O’Connell of the have a facility for men. other. No one is judging you, or The meeting was held Nov. Voters in November 2008 the general nature of the high- Reverse Mortgage Store. Seyda and Kamil now want scrutinizing you in any way. I 10 at the Robert Livermore authorized general obligation speed project, and how it might Seyda Harding Kaynak hopes Chase Bank, which took over love the environment, the people Community Center. Less than a bonds of up to $9 billion to be used as an aid for commuting, for a happy ending, too. She the mortgage from Washington and how I feel in general,” said dozen of the public were on hand Nicole. launch the L.A. to San Francisco with links to BART and the ACE wants to save her spacious south Mutual, to recognize a new loan in the first hour of the event in The tough part for people who project. Ogden and Hertz told train line. Pleasanton home not only for deal that they worked out with a mid-afternoon. They asked big- herself and husband, Kamil, but Chase counselor in Oakland. If abused substances is to make the The Independent that the major The line would work well picture questions about the main also for women who live there as the bank approves the deal, the transition into “normal life,” said plan already designated might in bolstering both ACE and corridor, which will run from Los a transition in their recovery from house would be saved from slated Nicole. “I don’t know how to live have a chance to obtain federal BART, with many riders switch- Angeles and San Diego to San drug and alcohol addiction. foreclosure on Dec. 14. a normal life. I’m an addict. I am funding in the near future. The ing among the three modes of rail Francisco. The facility, called Tranquility So far, though, Chase has not relearning how to live my life in Department of Transportation transit, said Ogden. It’s possible They also saw maps about Sanctuary, has served 15 women gotten back to them concerning a responsible and mature way. (DOT) has allocated $8 billion in that ACE service could be run all how an Eastbay route could be in the past two years, with a ca- their status. One of the Chase The house has been a blessing federal stimulus package money day long, with its own right of added. If all segments of the link pacity of eight at any one time. bank’s counselors allegedly told for me.” for high-speed rail. way, instead of having to share were built, it could take passen- The Kaynaks have been trying Seyda that there have been com- Taylor, who has lived at the Gov. Arnold Schwarzeneg- tracks with Southern Pacific, as gers from Fremont, through the to work with lender Chase Bank, munication problems since Chase home for three months, said that ger early last month asked for it does now. if she didn’t have that place, she Valley, to Stockton, Sacramento and have had some extensions on has had to add thousands of $4.7 million in stimulus money. Fares on the route from San the foreclosure. However, Dec. would be homeless. and Modesto, where it would people to its staff on foreclosures. A week later, a letter signed by Francisco to Los Angeles are 14 looms as the latest deadline. It has been an immense training “It’s a huge family environ- hook up to the main route to Sens. Dianne Feinstein and Bar- projected to be about one-half Learning anything about the fate job. Things do slip through the ment. It supports everything that southern California. bara Boxer, and 22 California those of the commuter airlines. of the home has been frustrating, cracks, the bank counselor alleg- everyone does. They helped me The eastern route once was congress members, including The trip would take three hours said Seyda. edly told her. find a sponsor (in recovery). I go considered as the way to bring the Rep. Jerry McNerney, D-Pleas- or less. That’s a time savings for In Livermore, Lennon tried One possible good sign for to meetings every day. This saved Southern California route over anton, backed the request. anyone going from downtowns dealing directly with a lender Seyda and Kamil has been that my life,” said Taylor. to San Francisco. However, the The congressional letter asks of San Francisco and Los Ange- in her situation. She was facing they have had extensions on “It would be a shame, if any- high cost of rebuilding bridges the DOT to put California at the les, because they don’t have to foreclosure because she broke earlier foreclosure dates, as they thing happens to that home. in the Fremont area convinced I know how many they have head of the funding list. The state travel to the airports. her kneecap, and lost her courier tried to work out an economic the CHSRA to head to San Fran- helped. I don’t know that I would has been working on plans for 13 Travelers also would save time job for two local charities. solution with the bank. cisco from the Central Valley via When the lender wasn’t The Kaynaks are not poor. still be here, without them,” said years, and is ahead of any other by not having to arrive one hour Pacheco Pass near Gilroy. responsive, Lennon turned to Kamil sells real estate. Although Taylor. project in the United States, says before a flight for security. While Pleasanton also had objected O’Connell, who personally Seyda’s real estate sales’ income In the two years that the the letter. there would be some security on to that route, citing traffic and waived her own commission, in went way down several years Kaynaks have operated the home, The letter emphasizes the high-speed rail, it wouldn’t equal noise impacts from the train. order to bring down the cost to ago, she has managed to com- they have had a total of 15 wom- creation of jobs. The signers told that of air travel. The CHSRA consultants, Lennon. The lender’s response plete some real estate sales. She en staying there, said Seyda. It Transportation Sec. Ray LaHood If the whole system were built Brent Ogden and Rob Hertz, of waiving its fees was a direct also is working 40 hours a week has been an important transition that the project would create out, the line would be so busy said there is support locally for result of O’Connell’s kind and at Stoneridge Mall managing a for them to be successful on their 45,300 jobs directly. With a rip- that trains at the well-traveled an Altamont link to the Central positive attitude, said Lennon. shop, and functions as on-site own, she said. ple effect creating other jobs, the junctions would be leaving every Valley to take care of East Bay Saving her duplex has cleared administrator for the recovery Seyda said she realizes that a total number would be 126,900, four minutes, said Ogden. bank is a big organization, try- passengers only, with no possibil- up Lennon’s money worries. She home. She said that she is doing according to the letter. An report in 2005 estimated has no more house payments. She ing to take care of all the work it ity of going across the Bay. it all to save the home for the Many of the planning and that it would take from eight to can live on her Social Security women. needs to do on the immense fore- The consultants said that the engineering jobs could start im- 11 years from initial funding to check and the income from a ‘THEY SAVED MY LIFE’ closure rate in the United States. authority knows that it doesn’t mediately, with the remainder complete the first segment of the rental on the property. The women are very apprecia- The people dealing with her on want to operate where it is not beginning by 2012, including train line. Because the timing of “I thought my situation was a tive about the home. One of them, the phone have been personally wanted. Spreading information some of the construction jobs. construction depends on raising lost cause. Robin, has been living there for sympathetic to what she is doing, at the scoping session is part of There has been opposition the funds, it’s hard to say now “She proved me wrong. I am four months. She told the Inde- though they keep saying that their the process to get feedback about to the rail project. The critics, when that will go into operation, so happy,” said Lennon, who pendent that “it’s a wonderful hands are tied. attitudes here about it. including the Howard Jarvis said Ogden. signed the papers earlier this experience. They are absolutely Valley officials have been

week. wonderful people. They saved dealing with the question at The reverse mortgage is based my life.” on equity in her home. The lender Robin had been clean and will take over the property after sober for 11 years, but then was Lennon dies. stressed because her husband O’Connell said that she hopes cheated on her, and her father word gets out in the senior com- died. She went on a four-day munity that they can look into binge. In her current situation, reverse mortgages as a way to that wouldn’t happen because (Opinions voiced in letters in the administration of approved included in The Independent’s wholesome and affordable food save their homes, if they have “there is someone there to catch published in Mailbox are those medications including life saving generous and ongoing support of supply raised in this country sufficient equity in them. you. I have a huge family there of the author and do not neces- EpiPens and Glucagon. I update local arts groups. by family farmers and ranchers RECOVERY HOME (at the home). They give you all sarily reflect the opinion of The and maintain my CPR and First like us. WANTS MIRACLE you need. You don’t feel like Independent. Letter Policy: The Aid certifications. None of these Since not everyone in this Kaynak hopes she has a happy you’ve failed.” Independent will not publish tasks require a nursing credential Give Thanks To A country has access to high-qual- ending about her potential fore- A woman living there for the anonymous letters, nor will it or medical degree. However, all Farmer or Rancher ity food, you may wish to demon- closure, too. She called it “need- past month, Nicole, said, “It’s publish letters without names. Health Services Clerks provide Darrel and Karen Sweet strate your gratitude by helping ing a miracle.” very peaceful here. It’s like a Frequent letter writers may have crucial support to overwhelmed Sweet Family Ranches Seyda and Kamil converted those in need. family. They have helped my re- publication of their letters de- teachers and crowded classrooms. Livermore the house two years ago into a covery. I can see what is going on In the spirit of the holidays, layed.) Fortunately, most parents at my The food at the center of your support our local food bank, state-recognized facility for aid- with me, and how I was covering school have a clear understand- ing women in their transition to up my addiction.” family gatherings this holiday Open Heart Kitchen. ing of my responsibilities to their season started on a family farm More Than Band-Aids children. Does Pleasanton need or ranch like ours. Let us tell you Mary Snell more District nurses? Of course. a little bit about our family ranch Kaiser Grants Aid Sr. Health Services Clerk Do Health Services Clerks need so that you too will know where Walnut Grove expanded hours? Absolutely. your food comes from. Elementary School Mr. McNicoll, please get your We raise cattle east of Liver- Support Program Pleasanton facts straight before making such more. It’s a family business that I am a Health Services Clerk misleading public comments Three Kaiser grants totaling began in 1868 and now includes choices they make that affect for the Pleasanton Unified School about my job. three generations and three fami- $18,000 are helping Senior Sup- their health.” District, one of many Health Ser- lies that live and work on the port Program of the Tri-Valley • $1,000 for the purchase of vices Clerks in this District who improve services to the elderly ranch. Even four-year old Audrey Kaiser Health Education printed take enormous pride in the jobs in Livermore, Pleasanton, Sunol materials, to be used in many of Thank You helps us feed the cows and watch we do. That being said, I'd like Sally Swanson and Dublin. the Senior Support programs. for wildlife. The grants are for nutrition to invite Independent reporter Publicity Chairman Our beef cows spend their The grant “cuts printing costs and anyone else who doubts my and weight control education, for while providing important health, Livermore-Amador lives on the pasture. The ten purchasing educational materials, nutrition and fitness information worth, to spend a typical, three Symphony Guild month old calves are shipped and for a wellness program for to our clients,” said Carol Gar- hour day in my Health Office The Livermore-Amador Sym- to Harris Ranch where they are the staff of the nonprofit orga- berson, Senior Support Wellness at Walnut Grove Elementary phony Guild would like to extend raised under strict food quality nization. Services Director. School. Perhaps then they would its thanks to The Independent for and safety and animal welfare They are particularly welcome • $2,000 for a wellness pro- understand that my job duties in- publicizing our recent fund-raiser guidelines. The Sweet family because funding has declined in gram for Senior Support staff, volve much more than just "put- “POPS Travels the World” held is proud of its contribution to several areas while the number encouraging them to care for ting on Band Aids." How about at the Barn on November 6th and your safe and wholesome food of elderly needing help is in- their own health so that they screening entire classrooms for 7th. This support contributed to supply. creasing, according to Marlene can better serve the senior com- lice, calming panicked parents, a fine turnout at both concerts. This holiday season join our Petersen, Executive Director of munity. “The stresses of budget assisting vomiting students and We particularly appreciate hav- family in giving thanks for the the Senior Support Program. cuts, along with an increasing comforting sick students whose ing our announcement placed in “This is the season of Thanks- number of seniors in need of parents or parent designees can- a prominent spot in the October giving, and we are truly thankful help make this wellness grant not be reached even after hours of edition of The Independent Mag- to Kaiser,” she said. “The grants especially welcome,” according multiple phone calls? Not to men- azine and having a photographer make a real difference to the staff to Executive Director Petersen. tion providing immediate first aid come to an orchestra rehearsal and clients alike.” She particularly thanked Kaiser for numerous head injuries, cuts, The grants come from the to take a picture of soloists Dale manager Frank Lattuca, who scrapes, bee stings and possible Larsen and Wendy Mason and Kaiser Permanente Diablo Area volunteered to sponsor the well- Community Benefit program. broken bones, all of which are conductor Arthur Barnes. Pro- ness effort. meticulously documented. They are: Senior Support Program of ceeds from these annual pops • $15,000 for a weight con- I'm trained and authorized to concerts benefit our community the Tri-Valley has served seniors recognize symptoms and provide trol program emphasizing heart 60 and older since 1981. Its orchestra which begins its 47th and diabetes health for seniors. programs aim to keep seniors treatment for medical conditions season at The Bankhead Theater A pilot program began at one living independently as long as including diabetes and serious al- with a concert “Hits From Four senior site in August and the full possible. It provides services lergies. Let's not forget managing Centuries” on December 5. The program will start at two new free of charge. hundreds of student Health files Livermore-Amador Symphony is senior sites in January. Program “We are very grateful to all of and the responsibility of assisting very much appreciative of being coordinator Debbie Whiteside our funders, donors and volun- said the program will “provide teers,” said Petersen. “They make practical nutrition information” a real difference in the lives of the and teach elderly participants growing senior population in our to “take responsibility for the community.”

PAGE 6 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 The Holidays Begin . . .

Photos - Doug Jorgensen Shoppers got up early last Saturday to take advanage of special bargains during the Earlier Than the Bird event in downtown Livermore. In the photo in upper left are Victoria Smith, Matty Flores, and Paula Flores. Photo at lower right are Colene Bens and Veronica Bens at In Between Stitches. The upper right photo shows that even husbands got into the act.

Magical Holiday Evening

In Pleasanton, the Magical Holiday Evening was held Friday. The stores were decked out for the holidays. There was entertainment and fun, along with bargains for shoppers. In the photo at right, enjoying the sights and sounds of the evening, are Vickie LaBarge with her grandchildren Natalie, Avery and Tim LaBarge. The lower left photo is of members of the Valley Concert Chorale, who serenaded visitors with sounds of the season. The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 - PAGE 7

Pleasanton Ballistic United Soccer Club U10 Barage are the NorCal State Cup Premier Champions. U10 Barage competed in NorCal State Cup Finals over a two weekend period in Manteca to take the title. They won their bracket by defeating the Bay The Livermore Bombers U10B won first place in the 2009 Dublin Oaks Roadrunners in the championship Game 3-1. Pictured are Pleasanton Rage U9 Orange went 2 and 0 in the final round of the Crossroads Tournament by defeating the Newark Pumas in the Andrew McGinty, Mark Molz, Tommy Kramer, Ben Blackfield, championship match. The championship match came down to a Nor Cal State Cup. They finished #1 in their Super 3 Bracket against triple overtime shootout where the Bombers came out victorious 3-2. Joe Geasa, Jack Harker, Coach Alec Taylor, Nathan Williams, two strong opponents and #5 overall in Northern California. The Leading up to the championship match, the Bombers fought through Neal Inchauspe, Christopher Kilday, Liam Siu, Nico Lemoine, first game posted a score of 3-0 against the Mustang Blast an extremely tough bracket in which all matches were exciting. The and Ian Slominski. and the second game posted a score of 2-0 against El Dorado Bombers won their first match 4-2 against hosting team, Dublin Eclipse Luna. With excellent offensive and defensive playing, Fireballs. The second Match against the San Ramon Blackhawks Offensive Players: Sami LaBella, Malissa Reportable (PRT) Times: Jason Chen. Rage was able to shut out both teams securing their first place ended in a 3-3 tie with the Bombers rallying from a 3-1 deficit to tie it Shadle, Brookey Villanueva; Top Defensive Players: Kayla Bowers. finish. Pictured are (top row) Darin Preszler, Donn Frizzell and up in the second half. A 2-2 tie with the Fremont Spartans in the final Pleasanton Ballistic pool match placed the Bombers in the championship game against the The Pleasanton Ballistic United Soccer Dominique Dourneau; (middle row) Nicolette Trucco, Yasmine Pleasanton Seahawks Club (BUSC) U12 recreational champions Springer, Hope Alley, Emma McLaughlin, Jessica Jensen, Jenna Newark Pumas. The team finished the season undefeated and in first In preparation for the December Junior represented the league in four games at the place. The Bombers pictured are Coach Gary Arruda, Coach Bobby Olympics (JO), the Pleasanton Seahawks Crossroads post seasonal tournament this past Brown; (front row) Emma Dourneau, Hanna Fleshman, Madison Jackson, Coach Jeff Bouillerce; players (standing, left to right) Zachary (PLS) turned in many new cuts and times Saturday and Sunday. The Rays got off to Mole, Kylie Racer, Sarah Baxter, and Maddie Macedo. at the Orinda OAPB Last Chance Meet, a great start by beating Newark 5-2. Jeffery Anderson, Stephen Billowitch, Nick Bouillerce, Manuel Veruzco, Alex November 14-15. New B Times: Sara Jef- Deguchi assisted Keegan Locher, Keegan as- Forgatsch, Aaron Eppstein, Jack Perry; (kneeling) Chase Dunn, Drew frey and Michael Martin. New A Times: sisted Jordan Singh, Andrew Bailey assisted Samantha Howell, Taylor Park, Aditya Jeffery Deguchi on goals. After half time, Arruda, Braden Jackson, and Charlie Ridings. Not present for the Gupta, Wolfgang LaChance, Rishab Nair, with the score 3-1, Rays' Jordan Singh scored their pool, the Rays then faced off against a just before the half. Then Livermore scored photo was Trenton Green. Tyler Rhoads, Michael Yao, Madison twice more on stolen free kicks. Scrappy Union city, going down by one in again half way through the second half. Rays Burson, Analese Chinn, Stephanie Jeffrey, In the second game on Saturday the the 1st half on a penatly kick and in the end retaliated when Bailey assisted Deguchi. The Dylan Devries, Chloe Bantock, Bridget Rays continued their undefeated streak by dropping one more in a 2-0 loss their 1st Rays ended tourament play placing fourth Robertson both took shots on goal before Booe, Heather Chandler, Elise Cox, Maya besting the Danville Sharks 6-0. When it of the season. in eight Bay Area teams. Pleasanton Rage Malissa Shadle came up with the second Gilchrist, Bernadine Martin, Roshni Nair, Pleasanton Rage U12 Premier came came to scoring, Keegan Locher assisted Playing for the consolation prize the boys goal, assisted by Robertson. Kayla Bowers Cassidy Booe and Emily Saccullo. Jordan Singh, Damian deguchi assisted then took on Livermore and were again bested away from their re-match against the played amazing defense at the mid-spot, New JO Cuts: Anna Parker, Alex Gil- Heritage Dynamite with a big2-0 win. Sami Keegan Locher, Damian did the same back in a barn burner losing 4-3. Locher scored CYO Basketball and Brookey Villanueva was also strong christ, Regis LaChance, RJ Scott, Brian to Keegan, Andrew Bailey assisted Joey first on a throw in from Deguchi. Livermore St. Raymond's 8th grade (818) defeated LaBella broke the game open with the first at mid-field. In addition to scoring goals, Lee, Andrew Song, Caleb Wang and Theresa goal, scored on a beautifully placed ball by Brasil and Kevin Yang assisted Joey Brasil then put in two. Deguchi assisted Singh to St. Michael/St. Charles (SM/SC) (814) 39-17 LaBella and Shadle played well all around Martin. New Far Westerns (FW) Cuts: for the final score. On Sunday, leading even the score. Livermore scored again (continued on page 8) Makenna Elias. Sophie Santos and Carley and were a big part of the important win. Top Seohyun Kim and Tony Shen. New Pacific PAGE 8 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 Study Suggests Reforms Needed in Food Stamp Program A recently released statewide cates (CFPA) captured an ad- also food insecure” says Ken that details estimates of lost food participation will not only help • Providing a phone or a web survey conducted by the Univer- ditional 208,000 people living Hecht, Executive Director of stamp benefits and the resulting Californians in need, but will also based interview process to avoid sity of California, Los Angeles in these households who are the CFPA. “Children may not be economic impact for counties bolster economic activity; a win- trips to the food stamp office (UCLA) shows that 2,875,000 also likely to suffer from food as vulnerable to food insecurity and the state. Based on these cal- win situation for all involved. “In • Joining 46 other states that California adults report strug- insecurity. because parents will do their best culations the report estimates that times like these we can’t afford do not require a fingerprint image gling with food insecurity, the “Food insecurity as reported to protect their children from $126,885,000 in benefits would to let valuable federal resources to complete enrollment; and ability to obtain enough food on by the adult head of household these struggles—but they are not have gone to eligible Alameda go unused” says Tia Shimada, • Reducing paperwork by a regular basis. Of the households almost always indicates that always successful”. County residents if the partici- Nutrition Policy Advocate at the converting to a semi-annual sim- surveyed in Alameda County, the problem affects the rest of Food insecurity and poor nu- pation rate had reached 100%. CFPA. plified reporting system 95,000 adults reported suffering the household as well. It makes trition are pressing problems in Furthermore, the additional food The report outlines solutions The Lost Dollars, Empty from food insecurity. Using data sense that when an adult is af- California. One of the existing stamp benefits would have gener- aimed at reducing barriers to food Plates report and other informa- on the surveyed households, the fected it’s likely other adults, if solutions, the federal Food Stamp ated approximately $233,470,000 stamp participation, such as: tion is available at www.cfpa. California Food Policy Advo- not the entire household, are Program, is severely underuti- in economic activity. • Removing the asset test, so net/ldep/ lized. CFPA released a report en- The report suggests that in- households don’t have to hit rock titled Lost Dollars, Empty Plates creasing Food Stamp Program bottom before qualifying Seahawks to Host Junior Workshop Provides Information on Grant Application Process Olympic Swim Meet The cities of Dublin, Liver- ganizations that serve Tri-Valley at the Livermore City Council strongly encouraged for the cities The City of Pleasanton’s Dolores Bengtson Aquatic Center will be more and Pleasanton will co- residents. Chambers, 3575 Pacific Avenue of Dublin and Pleasanton. Both the host site for a large swim meet in the coming weeks. The Pleas- sponsor two application work- The first workshop is slated in Livermore. workshops will be identical in anton Seahawks Swim team will host a three-day Junior Olympic shops for all fiscal year 2010-11 for Monday, December 7, from Staff will discuss the appli- format and content. It is only nec- swim meet that begins on Friday, December 4, and continues through Livermore Housing and Hu- 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the cation processes and distribute essary to attend one workshop. Sunday, December 6. man Services grants, Pleasanton Pleasanton City Council Cham- application packets at the work- To RSVP for attendance at one The meet is expected to draw about 2,000 swimmers and guests Housing and Human Services bers, 200 Old Bernal Avenue in shops. of the workshops, please contact who will begin to arrive each morning at 6:30 a.m., with competi- and Community grants, and Dub- Pleasanton. Attendance at one of the Fan Ventura at (925) 931-5348, tion beginning at 8:00 a.m. The meet will continue each day until lin Community Development A second workshop will be scheduled workshops is manda- or send an email fventura@ approximately 8:30 p.m. Block grants. The workshops held on Wednesday, December tory in order to apply for City ci.pleasanton.ca.us. The city of Pleasanton has been working closely with the Se- are designed for non-profit or- 9 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. of Livermore funding and is ahawks to develop plans for a both a successful competition and reduced impact on the neighborhoods surrounding the Aquatic Center, located at 4455 Black Avenue near Santa Rita Road. Accordingly, City staff has developed a traffic flow system for the Aquatic Center LARPD Increases Field Use Fees; to facilitate competitor drop-off, and participants have been notified of pre-designated parking locations that would reduce the impacts on the surrounding neighborhoods. Honors Retiring Employees The Gingerbread Preschool and Alisal Elementary School parking lots will be used as overflow parking. Swim meet parking is prohib- The Livermore Area Recre- Assistant General Manager many projects at LARPD parks the city should be paying for the ited in any of the business lots on the south side of Black Avenue. ation and Park District board ap- John Lawrence replied that the and trails. capital improvements, not the Swimmers are advised not to park in the Amador Valley High School proved increases to the reserved groups had been kept informed. Goodman stated, “The district district. As a tenant, the district parking lot on Saturday morning, as the entrance will be blocked sports field use rate for both The Board also acknowledged is losing two valuable employees. would pay utilities and make by mid-day to accommodate the staging of the Hometown Holiday youth and adult group rentals at the retirement of two longtime We appreciate all their years of minor improvements. Parade scheduled that evening in downtown Pleasanton. its meeting last week. District employees. service.” Director Scott Kamena said For more information, please contact Ian Anderson at (925) Effective Dec. 1, youth sports Senior Recreation Supervisor Directors also discussed a there were different types of 931-3423. field rentals will increase from $5 Brian Tibbets is retiring after proposed Master Property Agree- landlord/tenant relationships. For per hour to $10 per hour. Adult 26 years with the District. He ment between LARPD and the example, a dentist leasing prop- sports field rentals will increase has supervised aquatics, adult City of Livermore. The purpose erty would be responsible for all from $15 per hour to $20 per day care, senior services, youth of the agreement is to clarify use of the improvements. hour. A new fee of $50 per hour and adult sports, facility rent- and maintenance of facilities Goodman noted that there for synthetic turf fields was also als, special events, open space, including trails, parks and build- have been issues about who is approved. classes and maintenance during ings that are owned by the City responsible for improvements. in CYO basketball action. St. Raymond's Wiedenfeld was able to put up 4 points as went on a 10 point run in the second quarter well. At halftime SM/SC had a one point This is the first change in his time at LARPD. He managed and managed by LARPD. Among them are the handicap to open up a 15 point halftime lead. Michael lead and came out strong in the second half. sports field fees since July 2004 the Robertson Park Equestrian An agreement established restrooms at the Barn. There have Ditzel's hot shooting led a third quarter Nicole Bartels and Katherine Gomez each comeback but SM/SC couldn't sustain the scored a basket to strengthen the lead but St. when rates changed from $8 per Center Arena Cover project, as in 1970 indicated that the city been issues at Ravenswood and momentum through the end of the game. Isidore fought back and with less than two game to $5 per hour for youth well as oversaw the maintenance would acquire park property. the Carnegie Building as well. “It Ditzel had 8 points and an assist for SM/SC. minutes in the game, SM/SC was leading Greg Plantenga had 5 points and 3 assists. by one. Led by Daniela Walker, Katherine and $15 per hour for adults. of many District facilities. The district would improve and is a discussion that needs to take Grant Perry and Justin McKee hit the boards Gomez and Sierra Marshall, the defense held These fee increases are expected Park Specialist-Construction maintain the parks. place. Unlike a business, we are with 9 and 7 rebounds respectively. Jeffery strong and was able to keep their one point to generate about $25,780 in Bob Tipton is retiring with 27 Warner played tough defense and also con- lead. Olivia Volponi and Maddison Bjorge Director David Furst ex- serving the same public.” tributed 5 rebounds. provided help off the bench to make the final additional revenue annually for years of service to the District. pressed some concerns about the A revised document will be • • • score 12 – 11. the District. His passion for “safety first” SM/SC CYO 7th Grade Girls American • • • way the agreement is currently brought back to the Board meet- League Team hosted Catholic Community SM/SC 3rd grade boys CCOP (330) Director Steve Goodman helped develop the Tot Lot In- written. One was a statement that ing in December for discussion, of Pleasanton (CCOP) in this year's first vs SM/SC Eagles 43- 10 Logan Finch, asked whether staff had been in spection Form for the District. the city and district would have a round of what's become a great rivalry. Anna Nicholas Melendez and Aidan Ackerman with final approval expected in Neitzel had another terrific game in the paint scored for the Eagles with Alex Clarke and contact with the sports groups He has coordinated construction relationship akin to landlord/ten- January. The agreement must with six points to go with her 14 rebounds, Jonathan Mulrooney on defense. to let them know about the rate and performed hands-on work for ant. Furst said that in that case, also be formally considered by and Samantha Trask defended well at the • • • point and ran the offense well at the other CCOP (329) - SM/SC vs Eagles 43-13 increase. the Livermore City Council. end, doing a great job protecting the ball and CCOP were led by Brandon Villanueva and penetrating off the dribble when she found Joshua Valentine on offense and Patrick Gal- a seam. Amanda Montano presented an of- lagher and Cooper Eastman with defensive fensive threat on top of her usual tenacious steals. Brad Couture, Mickie Enad, Nicolas defense. In a game that was close the whole Rodriguez, Parth Gupta and Sharwin Patil Funds OKed to Purchase Historic Farm way, CCOP sank the game's last basket at the all contributed to the team defense. Eagles The Livermore City Council a working horse area and other The city would repay the buzzer, coming away with a 26-24 victory Tamur Asur , Brent Cisterman and Wyatt economy. She pointed out that in a great opening game of this year's series Moseley all scored while Michael Gauch voted to accept funds that will outbuildings on site. loan over a 20 year period. The the state of California, in a very between these two teams. and Robert Sandoval contributed to a strong allow it to purchase the historic The farm is currently the loca- estimated yearly payment would • • • defense. down economy, for the first time SM/SC 7th grade CYO team #711 edged • • • Hagemann Farm. tion of Hoofprints on the Heart, be $104,842. created an incentive for filmmak- St. Isidore team #709 31-27 in a hard fought SM/SC 3rd grade boys Warriors (#336) In September, the U.S. De- an adaptive riding program for FILM COMMISSION ers. “Filming is very lucrative. It battle Sunday. Ryan Holmes led SM/SC with vs. St. Joan Scorpions (#337). Warriors won 13 points, excellent defense, and some very 19-16. The Scorpions dominated the first partment of Housing and Urban disabled persons. Hoofprints The council also voted to is a job creator. There are location crucial steals. Devin Darden chipped in 9 half, holding the Warriors to only 2 points Development approved funding operates the only program of its reallocate $7500 in tourism and fees, purchase of supplies, use of points while Jordan Murdoch added 5 points, in taking a 12-2 lead. The Warriors, in turn, for up to $1.8 million for the kind for persons with disabilities special event grant funds from 5 rebounds, and had 2 steals. With both teams outscored St. Joan in the 2nd half to take local restaurants and hotels. The in a penalty situation which allowed both the lead at 17-16 with less than one minute acquisition. in the Tri-Valley. Clients range the California Independent Film impact is huge in Livermore.” teams free throw opportunities, Brandon left to play. The Scorpions were unable to Hagemann Farm is a 5-acre from children with autism and Festival to the Livermore Valley Cory’s 6 rebounds occurred mostly towards equalize in the time remaining, giving SM/SC There is something shooting the end of the game and helped SM/SC hold the win. Key players for St. Joan were Rico remnant of the original 60,000 Down Syndrome to adults and Film Commission. every week in this area, she told on for the win. Guevara and Carson Griffey on offense, and acre Rancho el Valle de San Jose seniors suffering from a stroke, The film festival has moved • • • Alex Johnson and Jacob Smith on defense. the council. Mainly, they are The 7th grade girls SM/SC NUTZ Key players for SM/SC were Caleb Hardesty, land grant awarded in 1839 to the dementia or simple the effects to Orinda. commercials and short films. brought home a much needed win against who also had one successful free throw, and Bernal, Sunol and Pico families. of aging. Currently, Hoofprints The decision was made to give a tough St. Joan team. The NUTZ came Malini Tia on offense. Key defensive play- Kaye said that currently the com- out hard and fast in the first half with a ers for SM/SC were Roberto Iacomini and Buildings on the site include the is working with the Veterans the money to the film commis- mission is scouting locations for 22-11 score at the break. But St. Joan's #4 Zach Macintire. Pico-Bernal/Mendenhall house, Hospital to expand the Horses sion, because it was related to the knew how to sink 3 pointers and forced the • • • the next Terminator film. “That’s NUTZ to pull out everything they had just SM/SC 3rd grade boys Destroyers hosted one of the oldest remaining for Heroes program. It has been film industry. the kind of movie, a major feature to stay ahead in the 2nd half. A final score the Livermore Lakers and played a well wooden farmhouses in the Tri- found that adaptive riding therapy Dale Kaye, Chamber of Com- of 28-24 brought out the toughest defense fought contest on Sunday, 11/21/09. Both film, we are trying to bring in,” SM/SC has had to play this season. Bella teams showed a lot of skills. The Destroyers Valley. There are fully preserved provides additional therapeutic merce CEO and head of the film she said. "Smurph" Murphy brought her best game to played strong but fell short to the Lakers with functional historic barns, work- benefit to veterans with a variety commission, noted that filming the court when her team needed it most. With the final score of 10 to 18. Jayden Hurskin, 5 attempts, 4 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 points Christian Pitcher, and Xavier Pelican led the shops, the Mendenhall cow barn, of brain and body injuries. has a significant impact on the she helped solidify the win for the NUTZ. Lakers in scoring and rebounding, Gabe Kirah VanTrease also brought her skills to Parrish also rebounded well and logged his the forefront with 5 attempts, 4 rebounds, 2 first assist of the season. Alejandro Cabassa, steals and 4 points. Sarah Partridge led her Matthew Larson, Ryan Heise, and Trevor team with 8 points, 8 steals and 4 rebounds. White all played impressive team defense. Natalie Assemi and Jessica Elfin held a strong Noah Wiesner, RJ Mata, Owen Dawson, stance against St. Joan with a combined 14 and Brandon Harvey added points for the Research Could Lead to New Treatment for Kidney Stones rebounds, 13 attempts and 6 points. Jordon Destroyers while Alec Lewis and Jose Ramos Volponi and Katie Johnston rounded out the battled hard underneath to lead the team in By producing some of the tide-mineral interaction. in the laboratory. to bind strongly, the researchers efforts with 3 steals, 4 rebounds, 13 attempts rebounds. Eric Valdez and Dylan Jess played highest resolution images of Inorganic minerals play an By improving the resolu- and 4 points. tough defense. found instead that the peptides • • • • • • peptides attaching to mineral important role in most biological tion power of an Atomic Force did not attach to the surface un- CYO 5th Grade Boys - SM/SC #514 SM/SC Thunder (3014) 16, CCOP surfaces, scientists have a deeper organisms. Bone, teeth, protec- Microscope (AFM), the PNAS less the crystal growth slowed. (Terminators) lost to St. Raymond #515. (3011) 11:Thunder Players: Isabella Carrano, understanding how biomol- The score was 20-12. St. Raymond had Zakiya Clark, Kate Hottinger, Abby,Grace tive shells or the intricate cell authors were able to image indi- The peptides needed to bind in strong offensive play from Jeremy Santos Leary, Megan Mossinger, Allison Scher, ecules manipulate the growth walls of marine diatoms are some vidual atomic layers of the crystal a specific way to the face, which and Andrew Cabral and great defensive play Kamy Farro, Mallorie Steiner. crystals. This research may lead displays of biomineralization, interacting with small protein by Max Ureta and Marco Coronel. Termi- • • • takes more time than a non- nators Zach Scribner and Matt Benavidez 3rd grade SM/SC basketball Cobras 21, to a new treatment for kidney where living organisms form fragments, or peptides, as they specific attachment. As a result, provided some goo offensive plays. Jose CCOP 31. SM/SC Cobras top players: Adam stones using biomolecules. structures using inorganic mate- fell on the surface of the crystal. the growing layers of the crystal Mariscal and Matthew Budrewicz showed Murphy, Alex Curuna, and Jordan Collom. The research, which appears some great defense. • • • rial. Some minerals also can have The images also revealed a were able to shed off the peptides • • • The Livermore SM/SC CYO 3rd Grade in the Nov. 23 online edition of negative effects on an organism mechanism that molecules can as they attempted to bind. The SM/SC Wolves (5th grade boys) Boys - "Shooters" faced off against a chal- the journal Proceedings of the such as in kidney and gallstones, use to bind to surfaces that would played a very close game against a quick St. lenging St. Joan of Arc - "Hoosiers". The But when the researchers Isidore team but came up short in the final "Hoosiers" won the offensive battle although National Academy of Science, which lead to severe suffering normally repel them. The high slowed down the crystal growth minutes by a score of 30-26. The Wolves the "Shooters" fought tough under the boards. explores how peptides interact and internal damage in humans resolution images showed that rate, the peptides collapsed onto started slowly in the first quarter but picked Top all-around players for the Hoosiers with mineral surfaces by accel- up offensive momentum in the second quarter included Kyle Davidson, Sean Kearns, and and other mammals. peptides will cluster together the surface so strongly that they on the back of strong shooting from Kavan Jack Hildebrand. Top Defensive Players for erating, switching and inhibiting Understanding how organisms on crystal faces that present the completely stopped growth. The Bagatelos and Ryan Nunes. A 12 footer the Shooters included Jack Burke, Drew Dil- their growth. limit the growth of pathological same electronic charge. Under from Kevin Prill along with a slashing left lon and Grant Dufek. Top Offensive Players researchers proposed that the hand drive to the basket by Frank Gomez for the Shooters included Jacob Peterson, Ian The team, made up of re- inorganic minerals is important certain conditions the peptides phenomenon is due to the unique pulled the Wolves to within four points at Partridge and Logan Vinson. searchers from Lawrence Liver- in developing new treatment would slow down growth, while properties of bio-polymers, such the half. Coaches Bagatelos and Murdoch adjusted the game plan during the break more National Laboratory, the strategies. But deciphering the under other conditions the pep- as peptides or polyelectrolytes, and the Wolves immediately responded on Lacrosse Registration Molecular Foundry at Lawrence complex pathways that organ- tides could speed up growth. which fluctuate in solution before both ends of the court. Solid defensive play Girls lacrosse Spring 2010 registration Berkeley, the University of from Kevin Emerson and strong rebounding is now open. It is open to girls in grades 2 isms use to create strong and ver- On another face of the crystal, resting in a stable configuration by Gomez and Nunes turned the tide for the to 8. Registration is now through the end of California, Davis and the Uni- satile structures from relatively where the peptides were expected on a surface. SM/SC squad. At the end of the quarter November 2009 at www.pleasantongirlsla- versity of Alabama, for the first simple materials is no easy feat. SMSC evened the score and appeared to crosse.com. Questions? Richard Murphy at have momentum in their favor. In the final [email protected]. Spring season time produced single-molecule To better understand the process, period the St. Isidore offense suddenly caught runs from February(continued to May 2010. on page 12) resolution images of this pep- scientists attempt to mimic them fire as they hit a series of tough shots to pull in front by six points. With a little over a minute remaining a rebound and eight foot jumper from Emerson pulled the SM/SC team to within four. However, even with an aggressive half court trap that resulted in two turnovers, the Wolves were unable to close the scoring gap and time ran out. • • • SM/SC 5th grade boys "Flying Cows"(#512) had a tough loss 31-6 against CCOP (#509) Sunday. The Cows were decid- edly short-handed, only being able to field 6 players total, but Zachariah Eme, Robert Sutter, Andrew Marty, and Noah Kluball really stepped up their games in both offense and defense. • • • 4th grade SM/SC Crushers faced a tough opponent in St. Isidore (4013) on Sunday. From the tip off, SM/SC was able to score with a basket by Emily Trask. With great passing by Katherine Gomez, Regan The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 - PAGE 9 Fair Board Taking Applications to Fill Vacancy The Board of Directors for well as brief detail on how their responsible for policy over- of 10 hours each month. Contract Specialist at BART, the Chief Financial Officer for the Alameda County Agricul- experience and professional sight and general operation of Retiring Board member, Pete responsible for the selection of Leisure Sports in Pleasanton. His tural Fair Association announced expertise would be of benefit to the 267-acre Alameda County Ruggeri has served on the Board Contractors and Consultants responsibilities include financial its intent to fill a position on the the Fair Association. Applicants Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. The for the past seven years. Ruggeri and the oversight of contracts planning, debt financing, prop- Board that is being vacated by a must reside within the County of Fairgrounds is home to more serves as President and Chairman for various projects including, erty sales and acquisitions and retiring member. All interested Alameda. than 300 events year round, with of the Board of the professional the San Francisco Airport Exten- legal matters. He also coordinates parties are required to complete Submissions should be ad- an annual attendance in excess consulting firm Ruggeri-Jensen- sion, projects associated with the the entitlement process for de- and submit a formal application dressed: Alameda County Agri- of 3,000,000 patrons. Since the Azar & Associates. “Director system wide Earthquake Safety velopment projects. Mr. O’Brien by January 20th, 2009. Formal cultural Fair Association, Attn: Fair Association is a 501(c)3 Ruggeri, with his almost 40 years Program, technology enhance- has a strong background in both Applications are available by Executive Committee, 4501 Nonprofit Corporation, no com- of professional civil engineering ments related to train control finance and real estate develop- calling the CEO’s office at (925) Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton, pensation is provided to its Board experience, has been a valuable and contracts required for day ment, and is a CPA. O’Brien 426-7501. Applicants should CA 94566. Members. Board Members are contributor to the success of the to day system operation. Pe- began his service on the Fair include information on their The Board of Directors is requested to invest a minimum Fair Association. We will truly gram was appointed to the Fair Board in 2001. community involvement, as miss his expertise,” said Rick Board in 2001 by the Alameda For more information, please Pickering, CEO. County Board of Supervisor Nate visit our website at www.Alam- Board Member Anthony Pe- Miley. edaCountyFair.com or call (925) Police Launch Holiday Click It or Ticket gram moves into his second Board Member Patrick 426-7600. The Livermore Police Depart- Currently California has a seat of the California Office of Traf- term as President. Pegram is a O’Brien begins his second term ment is letting drivers know that belt usage rate of 95.4 percent, fic Safety. “This should be the registered engineer and Principal as Vice President. O’Brien is as part of the 2009 holiday Click but that still means over 1.5 mil- season of joy and thanksgiving, It or Ticket mobilization that lion people in the state are not not tragedy.” started on November 17th and buckling up. Properly restrained More than 175 local law will continue until November Home at Sunset Seeks Donations drivers, passengers and children enforcement agencies statewide the use of a loading dock in a 30th, officers will be out in force have a 50 percent better chance and the CHP will be participat- Home at Sunset has been serv- people in finding help, a church looking for anyone – driver, pas- ing the Tri-Valley for five years with a free food program, and warehouse. There is no space to of surviving a crash than unbelted ing in this year’s Click It or store the food once it is unloaded. senger or child – not properly Ticket mobilization. Funding to with free foods, three-four days a places to obtain the food and the occupants. Those ejected from week, and toys at Christmas. toys they need at Christmas. All the agencies and churches in restrained. Click It or vehicles in crashes or roll-overs support California’s Currently, the group is provid- Home at Sunset has been town seem to have the same prob- “There is absolutely no ques- are up to 35 times more likely to Ticket campaign was provided lem. If anyone wants to donate tion that seat belts save lives,” ing 33,000 bags of groceries to working as a clearing house die than restrained occupants. by a grant from the California those in need. Home at Sunset for the Toys for Tots for 10 space in a “condo warehouse” or said Chief Steve Sweeney. “There are no excuses. Noth- Office of Traffic Safety through tries to provide people with years. The current number of warehouse with a dock, Home at “Buckling up will not only save ing is worth risking the lives the National Highway Traffic enough food for several meals volunteers is over 120, and that Sunset, Free, Fresh, Foods, will you a heavy fine, it can also save of you or your family,” said Safety Administration. and days. The group mainly includes several groups that may consider giving them a 100% your life.” Christopher J. Murphy, Director serves the “working poor.” include 4000 people such as Cor- tax write off for the use of the Home at Sunset is unique in nerstone Church, and nineteen space. that it donates to 20 other agen- other groups that are not as large, Patricia Carter, founder and cies, programs, shelters and sev- Bethel Church, Sunset Church, CEO, said, “I believe the count 2-1-1 Connects to Essential Services eral soup kitchens. When there Celebration Center, The Fountain for feeding needy people in this Whether an individual is look- care, senior care, veteran services organizations that need help serv- is enough to go around service is Community Church, The Rock Tri-Valley is about 5000 families. ing for some extra assistance or and much more. Without 2-1-1, ing and preparing meals; and extended to up to 60 agencies. Church, Christian World Church, So those numbers come out a lot someone is looking to help those callers can make an average of collecting, sorting, packing, and The goal of Home at Sunset and recently the Livermore Gar- higher if you add the four or six less fortunate, 2-1-1 is the an- eight phone calls to different delivering donations. is to have some central storage dens, and Estate Mobile Home people in each family. Sometimes swer. In Alameda County, ques- numbers before finding the ser- For charities and organiza- space and be able to bring semi- Park. Also involved, at times, are blended families have eight or tions about local food banks, free vice they need. tions, 2-1-1 can help connect trucks of food to this Valley from Faith Chapel, Vineyard Church twelve people in one household. Thanksgiving meals and food For families and individuals programs with those in need, two well known National level and several Spanish Churches Many families are all living to- baskets, canned food drives, vol- in need of extra assistance, 2-1- listing organizations as a possible companies (that donate foods at and Korean Churches, Discovery gether in one house.” unteer opportunities and more, 1 can provide Alameda County resource in their area and direct- times). All of the the local agen- Church, and the Soup Kitchen, All local agencies serve from can all be answered by dialing residents with information on cies and churches could then Tri-Valley Haven, Shepherd’s babies to the elderly and all those ing them to donation centers. in between. Home at Sunset is a one simple number: 2-1-1. local food banks and supple- For more information about come to one Livermore food Gate, St. Michael’s and St. Vin- storage center and obtain what cent De Paul. private non-profit 501 C 3. The 2-1-1 is a free, confiden- mental food programs available 2-1-1 and the types of resources group is seeking donations. They tial, easy-to-remember number both during the holidays and available, please contact Eden they can use. The food and toys distribution Staff-volunteers currently is so large that there is a need for can be sent to to Home at Sunset, that connects Alameda County throughout the year, as well as I&R’s Executive Director, Bar- P O Box 1101, Livermore, Ca pre-screen callers to determine pick up groceries and take them “paid help” so the program can residents to essential community bara Bernstein, at 510-537- to alternating agencies, and continue to grow. People have 94551-1101. information and services, includ- their eligibility in the Food Stamp 2710, ext. 8; bbernstein@ede- churches, three times a week; 52 been generous in giving of them- For information, go to www. ing healthcare, rent and mortgage Program. nir.org; or visit the website at weeks a year; 156 times a year. selves, their time, fuel, transpor- homeatsunset.com. assistance, food and shelter, job For volunteers, 2-1-1 can help www.211alamedacounty.org. The program is becoming an 8 tation costs, and prayers. training, transportation, child- individuals and groups identify to 16 hours a day, seven days a The group has been offered week. Its resource center assists

Franklin Max Gibson her formative years in Pleasanton her lifetime love and husband of Arrangements by Callaghan he began a dedicated 32-year family and friends. He was an Franklin “Max” Gibson passed and graduated from Amador 53 years, Wilfred “Will” Forney. Mortuary. military career as both a fixed avid reader and lifelong learner away peacefully at his home in Valley High School. She loved She was born May 17, 1932. wing and later a combat helicop- and enjoyed discussing most Livermore playing soccer in the youth pro- She was a loving mother Lt. Col. Thomas J. Laut, ter pilot. He became a member any topic with others. His keen o n O c - gram and to her children Debbie Griffin, of the California Air National insight and warm sense of humor, tober 30, USAF Ret. strength of character and high in- continued Michael Forney and Linda Coy; Lt. Col. Thomas J. Laut, USAF Guard’s 129th Rescue Wing at 2009, sur- tegrity enriched the lives of those as a young sons-in-law Don Griffin and Ret. passed away peacefully in his Moffett Field where he served r o u n d e d fortunate enough to know him. adult. She David Coy; and daughter-in-law San Ramon home on November as an Instructor Pilot and was by family A celebration memorial will was gifted Cindy Forney. She adored her 11, 2009, after a short battle with involved in humanitarian rescue after a long be held on the NASA parade with an art- grandchildren: Jason and Spring cancer.. He and life saving efforts over both battle with grounds at Moffett Field on ist’s view Griffin, Barbara and Kai Bilo- was sur- land and sea until his retirement p r o s t a t e December 5th at 11:00 a.m., fol- of the world bran, Kelly and Kit Adamo, and rounded by in 2000. His professional and c a n c e r . lowed by a reception beginning at and the tal- Lisa and Brenen Miller, Chris family and heroic service throughout his ca- He was a 12:30 at the nearby Tied House in ent that goes Forney, Nichole Coy, Andrew f r i e n d s . reer brought him military awards kind and Mountain View. All are welcome with it. Coy and Jayden Avila, as well H e w a s recognition including the Silver g e n t l e Laura Kay Mayo to attend. Take the Moffett Blvd Franklin "Max" Gibson She has as her great grandchildren: Ethan born Dec. Star and Distinguished Flying man who exit off Hwy 101 and follow the two children: a Miller and Camile Adamo. 2, 1944. Cross. was dear- signs to the Main Gate. In lieu of son, Benjamin Wigley, currently Joan loved spending time with T o m Tom had a love of road trips, ly loved by all who knew him. flowers donations may be made serving on active duty in the U.S. her family, friends and her dog; w a s t h e the outdoors, current events, He relied on his strong Christian to the Sacramento SPCA or other Army and a daughter, Sadie Co- Bella, She enjoyed volunteering adored fa- animals, and spending time with faith to help him through his ill- favorite charity of choice. naty-Mayo of Danville. at Cancer Society/Discovery ther of Jen- ness. Max was born in Athens, Laura also is survived by her Shop, shopping, bus trips to the nifer Rice Tennessee on July 24, 1947 parents, George and Dorothy local casinos with her friends, and Aaron to D.C. and Vineta Gibson. At Thomas J. Laut Mayo of Pleasanton, her siblings: playing cards, reading and gar- Laut. He the age of 19 he enlisted in the Lou Ann Perry and her husband, dening. i s a l s o Navy and was stationed out of John of Redlands, CA; Jim Mayo The family wishes to extend survived by brother Larry Laut, Long Beach, California. After of Pleasanton, Ed Mayo and his our grateful thanks to the excep- former wife Nina Irvin, and a two tours in Vietnam, he was wife, Tina, of Livermore and tional caregivers atHillendale multitude of other friends, family, honorably discharged in 1970. Christina Anderson and her Home Care, and the Angels at and associates. He lived the next 39 years in husband, Brian, of Cottonwood, Hope Hospice that supported The son of Ken and Dorothy California, calling Livermore CA; along with many nieces and Joan and the family throughout Laut, both deceased, Tom was home for the past five with his nephews. the process. born in Massachusetts and grew wife Georgette. A special companion to Laura A Celebration of Life will be up in Ohio where he graduated Max was employed by Fed- was her care dog, Sunny. held Friday Dec 4th at 11:30 a.m. from West Lafayette High School eral Express for many years Memorial services are pend- at the Marriott, 11950 Dublin in 1962. During his youth he be- before becoming an employee of ing Canyon Rd., Pleasanton. came an Eagle Scout, was a camp Kaiser Permanente’s Livermore In lieu of flowers please send counselor, and spent his summers facility. He loved a good game Barbara “Joan” Forney donations to Hope Hospice 6377 at his beloved family cabin in the of baseball and always rooted for Pleasanton resident Joan en- Clark Ave Ste 100 Dublin, CA Berkshires. the San Francisco Giants and the tered into eternal rest peacefully, 9458 or the American Cancer Tom graduated from Ohio New York Yankees. When he was surrounded by her loving family, Society 7000 Village Parkway State University in 1968 and able, he enjoyed playing golf. on Nov 21, 2009. She follows Ste E Dublin, CA 94568. entered the U.S. Air Force where He often volunteered at Harvey Green Elementary School in Fremont, working in the library and teaching art to students. His home was his favorite place to be, and his greatest pleasure in life was spending time with his family and friends and playing with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Georgette, his sons Michael and Aaron (their wives Jennifer and Sara) from his first marriage to Constance L. Gibson; daughters Lori Sipes and Jennifer Por- ter, and 8 grandchildren: Toby, Talitha, Corey, Barrett, Paige, Kyrie, Audrey, and Aravis. He was preceded in death by his older brother, Gordon, in Sep- tember 2009 and is survived by his younger sister Karen Drum- wright of Riceville, Tennessee. Donation in his memory can be made to the Disabled Veterans of America or Kaiser Hospice. Arrangements by Callaghan Mortuary.

Laura Kay Mayo Laura Kay Mayo, who grew up in Pleasanton, died Nov. 12, 2009 in Oakdale after a long ill- ness. She was 47. Born in Oakland, Laura spent PAGE 10 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

less women and children each year. holiday books, gourmet cookbooks, office. In his new position, Yousofi gram. The free workshop will take Last year, Congressman McNer- Annual Toy Drive ney collected and delivered over Express Fitness is holding its Some arrive with just the clothes on photographic collections, collectible will specialize in residential sales place on Monday, December 7, from their backs, seeking a fresh start. For books, games, and more. throughout the East Bay. 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Las Positas 9,000 cards with touching and per- annual toy drive to support the Tri- sonal messages of thanks. Valley Haven and their families. more than 25 years, Shepherd’s Gate For information, contact the Prior to joining Coldwell Banker College, 3000 Campus Hill Drive in has served over 9,000 women and Dublin Library (925) 828-1315 Residential Brokerage, Yousofi Livermore, in Building 1600 in the To participate in the program Their wish list by age group is make or purchase a holiday card, available at the Pleasanton club where children, providing Christ-centered owned California Home Realty and Staff Lounge. The workshop will housing and services such as profes- First Financing Group, Inc., where he provide prospective students with write a message of thanks inside to toys can also be dropped off. The Herzog Achievement a service member, and deliver the drive goes through December 7th. sional counseling, drug and alcohol Bob Herzog of Pleasanton, Agent managed real estate agents and loan information about career opportuni- recovery, and job skills training to officers for five years. He has more ties in surgical technology, the edu- card to Rep. McNerney’s office in Express Fitness is located at 4250 for Farmers Group, Inc. has achieved Stockton or Pleasanton by Wednes- Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton. help women and children rebuild the company's highest award to than six years experience in financ- cational commitment involved, and their shattered lives. ing, real estate, office management the application process. 1 day, December 2nd. Cards should If information is needed contact district managers and agents for remain unaddressed and envelopes Sue Evans at 989-4113 or sueevans- Shepherd’s Gate is a non-profit "outstanding overall performance." and short sales. Surgical Technologists are mem- organization that receives no govern- Coldwell Banker Residential bers of surgical operating room teams unsealed. [email protected] Herzog joins a select group of fel- Cards may be sent in Pleasanton ment funding, and relies on commu- low achievers as a member of the Brokerage in Pleasanton is located who assist surgeons, registered nurs- nity donations and support. If you are at 5980 Stoneridge Drive #122, and es, or other medical personnel during to: 5776 Stoneridge Mall Rd., Suite Hike the High Hills prestigious President's Council. 175, Pleasanton, CA 94588. Informa- interested in learning more or helping, Farmers Executive Vice President can be reached at 925.847.2200. medical procedures. According to the The Livermore Area Recreation contact Steve McRee at (925) 443- Yousofi may be reached directly at Employment Development Depart- tion at (925) 737-0727. and Park District ranger staff will of Field Operations Jerry Carnahan 4283 ext. 206. Donations can be sent announced the selection of Herzog at [email protected] ment Labor Market Information, the offer a program on "Hiking the High to 1660 Portola avenue, Livermore, or 925.997.7338. Surgical Technician is among the top Hills" on Sun., Nov. 29. Farmers' Los Angeles-based home of- CEO at Fremont Hospital CA 94551 or donate online by going fice. Presidents Council members will 20 fastest growing occupations in Fremont Hospital, a 96-bed be- Meet Ranger Pat Sotelo at 9 a.m. to www.shepherdsgate.org. Alameda County. havioral health facility serving ado- at the Wetmore Road entrance to be honored at a conference held at the Food and Gift Drive JW Marriott Hotel on Pennsylvania Students admitted to the Surgi- lescents and adults, has announced Sycamore Grove Park. Mobile Modular in Livermore is cal Technology program may work Avenue, Washington, D.C., Septem- conducting a drive to fill a storage the appointment of Sidney Ono as Need to burn off some of those Rummage Sale toward a Certificate of Achievement Chief Executive Officer, effective calories during this time of Thanks- Clear out your clutter that can ber 30 through October 4. container to the brim with food and Herzog represents Farmers' or Associate in Science Degree in Nov. 16. Ono has more than 20 years giving feasting? Join LARPD ranger be someone else’s treasures for the gifts for local families in need. Surgical Technology. For additional annual Rummage Sale put on by the member companies in automobiles, Toy and clothing donations may of hospital executive and operations staff on a moderately strenuous hike information and an application for experience at California hospitals, in- up to the highest hills in Sycamore Livermore Area Recreation and Park homeowners, life and business be dropped off until Dec. 8; food insurance. enrollment, visit the Las Positas cluding experience at both private and Grove Park. Hikers should get some District. Sign-ups are open now to until Dec. 17 at McGrath RentCorp College Health Sciences website at sellers seeking a new home for their headquarters, 5700 Las Positas Rd., public facilities. He holds a master’s stunning views of the Livermore www.laspositascollege.edu/SURG/ in public administration from the Valley and the surrounding heights. possessions. Model Trains Livermore. Please come to the front index.php A 10-by-10-foot space with an reception desk. University of Southern California and The ranger guide will point out some European Train Enthusiasts (ETE) For registration information a master’s in business administration of the natural and historical features 8-foot table can be rented for $35. colorful HO scale model trains will Food items should be nonperish- please call (925) 424-1554 or go Here sellers can showcase their be- able. Clothing and toys are needed for from Pepperdine University. along the way. Bring plenty of water be on display at the Blackhawk online at www.laspositascollege.edu. Ono stated, “I am honored to be- and snacks. This hike will cover about longings that are up for sale. Items Museum. Trains travel through an all age groups, baby to adult. Las Positas College is located at 3000 for sale must be of garage sale variety come a member of Fremont Hospital. four miles with some fairly steep “Old World” countryside. With a Campus Hill Drive in Livermore. From the doctors and staff members climbs and last more than two hours. and in working condition. No food, handcrafted modular layout, a host candy, car parts, large furniture, cars, Math Whizzes that I have met already, I can tell we Canceled if raining. of guest engineers, and the rails full Harvest Park Middle School stu- all share the same passion for quality There is a $4 per vehicle parking motorcycles or any commercial items Cards for Troops of locomotives; the ETE brings a dents Eugene Chen, Brian Shimanuki, Congressman Jerry McNerney patient care, dynamic staff relations fee. A $2 donation is requested to help are allowed. unique model train display every The LARPD Rummage Sale will Jerry Li and Ian Zhou competed in (CA-11) offered a reminder that and an overarching results-oriented support the programs. Participants year This exhibition is open from the Mathleague's first competition of mentality." may call 925-960-2400 for more be held from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, there is still time to participate in his Friday following Thanksgiving until the year at Stanford last month. As third annual “Holiday Cards for Our Ono replaces Jay Kellison, who information. Jan. 30, at The Barn, 3131 Pacific the middle of January. a team, they finished first (defeat- Ave. Selling space is limited and sells Troops” program before the Wednes- has been CEO at Fremont Hospital, European Train Enthusiasts, ing Miller Middle School and John a Psychiatric Solutions, Inc. (PSI) out quickly, so early registration for Hopkins for the first time). Eugene day, December 2 deadline. Donations Needed Inc. (ETE) is the premiere North “The holiday season can be a facility, for the past four years. Kel- sellers is recommended. Sellers can American organization focusing on had a perfect score of 46 to win the Shepherd’s Gate donations are sign up by visiting www.larpd.dst. individual competition, Brian was difficult time of year for the men lison has been promoted to Division down significantly for November. educating the public on the subject President for PSI and will be respon- ca.us and printing out and turning in of European Railroading. Founded in second with 45, and Jerry and Ian and women who serve our country,” The community’s help is needed the form along with the space rental 1973, ETE serves modelers, railway finished with 43 and 41 respectively. Rep. McNerney said. “Being away sible for 11 facilities in California, to ensure that the vital services and fee. Deadline is Jan. 25 for any spaces fans, related organizations, and the They had a perfect score on the team from friends, family and the comfort Nevada and Washington. housing for battered and homeless round for an overall score of 64/66. of tradition during the holidays is Fremont Hospital is a private, still available. For more information, community through public events, Mathleague is in the same format as women and children continues at call 925-373-5700. working model displays, media pre- an incredible sacrifice. Thoughtful modern 96-bed behavioral healthcare MATHCOUNTS - where Eugene will facility that provides services to ado- Shepherd’s Gate. sentations, and the publication of a be defending state champion in the words of encouragement and support Currently donations to Shepherd’s quarterly journal, the ETE Express. countdown round this spring. from our community can make a huge lescents (ages 12-17) and adults. Gate are down over 30% for the Tree Pickup This is the ninth year that the ETE has These four teamed with Christine difference in boosting the morale of month of November. The ministry Boy Scout Troop 941 in Pleas- been on display at the Museum. Blackhawk Museum began dis- Xu and Jeffrey Zhang in the Math our brave men and women who serve depends on financial gifts collected anton is holding a Christmas tree playing unique automobiles to the Notations third math contest in an our country with honor.” at this time of year to compensate recycling program. This community public in 1988, and offers a variety international high school geometry Congressman McNerney is col- during times of deficit throughout service is offered to help with the of exhibitions, lectures and programs contest. Harvest Park Middle School lecting cards for service members the rest of the year, so no programs collection and recycling of trees. throughout the year. There are cur- finished second (11/12) to Chiles recovering from injuries and stationed Suggested donation is $5 for trees High School of Tallahassee, Florida and services are cut. rently eighty classic cars from every (perfect 12/12). away from their families this holiday The organization is working hard up to 8 feet and $10 for trees over 8 automotive era on display in two Additionally, the 2009 Fall Start- season. He will then hand-deliver to provide the vital care that is nec- feet or flocked. Donations go directly expansive, granite galleries. Black- up Event was held in September. the cards to soldiers at Walter Reed essary to break the cycles of abuse, to support local scouting activities hawk Museum is a 501(c)(3)nonprofit corporation and is open to the public There were several students from Army Medical Center in Washington, addiction and homelessness. During throughout the year. Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 Harvest Park who took the test, a D.C. and sailors and marines at the this time of year especially, women To arrange for a tree to be picked am to 5:00 pm. Special holiday hours 100 problem, 30-minute individual National Naval Medical Center in and children need a safe, warm place up in Pleasanton, please call 399-1377 included the Monday & Tuesday be- competition. From Harvest Park, Bethesda, MD. to call home and Shepherd’s Gate is or go to www.troop941.org. fore Christmas and New Years Eve. Eugene finished first in the nation with Congressman McNerney is also there for them. Admission to the Museum is $10 for a score of 65. Jerry Li finished 4th in partnering with local organizations “We are so very grateful for the Adults, $7 for Seniors and Children the country, Brian Shimanuki was 6th, to send holiday cards to troops past giving and support of Shepherd’s Holiday Book Sale 6 and under are free. Ian Zhou was 9th, Christine Xu was stationed overseas. Cards collected Friends of the Dublin Library will 11th and Hansen Shi was 12th. Gate, and have great faith that the host a Holiday Book Sale on Sat., Dec. by Congressman McNerney will be community will respond at this urgent 5 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Library, Real Estate News included in troop-support packages time, to help us continue our mission,” 200 Civic Plaza. Surgical Technology organized by the Danville Blue Star said Steve McRee. Coldwell Banker Residential Moms, Packed With Pride in Stockton There will be a great selection Brokerage announced that Moe Prospective students are invited to Shepherd’s Gate, with campuses of hardcover books in excellent attend a workshop about Las Positas and the Pleasanton Military Families in Livermore and Brentwood, serve Yousofi has joined the company as and sent to Iraq and Afghanistan. condition, ideal for gift giving. Also a sales associate in its Pleasanton College’s Surgical Technology pro- more than 650 battered and home- offered will be children’s books, LEGAL NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS www.independentnews.com

LEGAL NOTICES STATEMENT OF 252 Main St., Pleasanton Ca The Independent Legal No. ers Conference is required (PBM) Services Program, Opportunities Internet website cats are available at Petsmart EMPLOYMENT ABANDONMENT OF USE 94566 is hereby registered by 2623. Publish November Responses Due by 2:00 pm at www.acgov.org. in Dublin from 1 to 4, and FOR INFORMATION Wednesday, December 9, 56) ADULT CARE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS the following owner(s): 26, 2009 on January 6, 2010 County 2009, 10:00 a.m. – Lake- 11/26/09 PetCo in San Ramon from 11 PLACING LEGAL NAME Nancy K. McKain, 95 Wind- NOTICE OF INVITING BIDS Contact : Fawaz Khana- CNS-1745787# to 3. Information, call TVAR CAREGIVERS NOTICES side Plaza Building, 1401 FILE NO. 370191 ward Common Unit 2, Liver- Notice is hereby given that chet at (510) 208-9824 or via Lakeside Drive, Room 1107, The Independent Legal No. at (925) 803-7043 or visit our NEEDED for elder care. CONTACT BARBARA @ email: fawaz.khanachet@ The following person (s) has more Ca 94551 sealed competitive bids will 11th Floor, Oakland, CA NET- 2631. Publish November website at www.tvar.org. Light housekeeping 925 243-8000 (have) Abandoned the use of This business is conducted be accepted in the office of acgov.org 26, 2009 errands transportation Information regarding the WORKING/SOUTH COUNTY ADOPT A DOG OR CAT, for FICTITIOUS BUSINESS the Fictitious Business Name by:an Individual the GSA-Purchasing De- BIDDERS CONFERENCE meal prep personal care. Spring Training USA located partment, County of Alam- above may be obtained at PUBLIC NOTICE adoption information contact NAME STATEMENT Registrant has not yet begun RFP #900666 for Pharmacy AT&T Mobility, LLC is pro- Please fax resume at 1453 First St., Livermore eda, 1401 Lakeside Drive, the Current Contracting Op- Valley Humane Society at 925 FILE NO.430318 to transact business under Benefit Management (PBM) posing to construct a new 925 371-8118 Ca 94550 8th Floor, Suite 800, Oakland, portunities Internet website 426-8656. The following person(s) doing the fictitious business name Services Program, Thursday, telecommunications tower fa- The fictitious business name CA 94612 at www.acgov.org 60) BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY business as:Joie de Vie Salon or names listed. MANDATORY December 10, 2009, 2:00 cility located at 1001 Goecken referred to above was filed 4)FOUND & Day Spa, 3059 Hopyard Rd. Signature of Registrant: NETWORKING/PROPOS- p.m. – Fremont Main Library, Road, Livermore, Alameda ALL CASH VENDING! on October 12, 2005 in the 11/26/09 Suites J & K, Pleasanton, Ca /s/:Nancy K. McKain ERS CONFERENCE- N. Fukaya Room A/B, 2400 Ste- County, California. The new FOUND AN ANIMAL? Be Your Own Boss! Your County of Alameda. RFP/SOQ - High- CNS-1741746# 94588 is hereby registered by This statement was filed with County venson Boulevard, Fremont, facility will consist of six (6) FREE SECTION. Call Own Local Vending Route. Full name of registrant land Hospital ATR Project The Independent Legal No. the following owner(s): the County Clerk of Alameda CA Responses Due by 2:00 15-foot steel poles with one Barbara Includes 25 Machines and R.P. Companies, Inc., Inspector of Record Services, 2625. Publish November Thanh Duong, 1177 Foster on November 16, 2009. Ex- pm on January 15, 2010 panel antenna each, one 25- 925 243-8000 to let 49,118 Candy for $9,995. MultiVend 1453 First St., Livermore Wednesday, December 2, 26, 2009 City Blvd. #4, Foster City pires November 16,, 2014. County Contact : Jennifer foot wooden pole mounted households know! LLC, 1-888-625-2405. Ca 94550 2009 at 11:00 a.m. – Highland Ca 94404 The Independent Legal NOTICE OF INVITING BIDS Chan Ngo (510) 208-9604 with a microwave antenna (CAL*SCAN) This business was conducted Project Office, 393 – 13th FOUND - White Fluffy Dog in Scott Feldstein, 1177 Foster No.2630. Publish. November Notice is hereby given that or via email: jennifer.ngo@ (separate); and an equipment by:Corporation Street, Oakland, CA Livermore Stanley - Murrieta BE WARY of out of area City Blvd. #4, Foster City 26, December 3, 10, 17, OPTION- sealed competitive bids will acgov.org Attendance at shelter, equipment cabinets, /s/:Richard K. Corbett Area 925 784-5522 companies. Check with the Ca 94404 2009. AL SITE TOUR – N. County be accepted in the office of Networking Conference is generator located within a 20- This statement was filed with RFP/SOQ - Highland Hospital 6)LOST local Better Business Bureau This business is conducted the GSA-Purchasing De- Non-mandatory. Specifica- foot by 50-foot fenced lease the County Clerk of Alameda FICTITIOUS BUSINESS ATR Project Inspector of Re- LOST A FAMILY PET? before you send any money by:Co-partners partment, County of Alam- tions and bid copies regarding area. Any interested party FREE County on November 9, 2009. NAME STATEMENT cord Services, Wednesday, SECTION. Call Barbara or fees. Read and understand Registrant has not yet begun FILE NO.431721 eda, 1401 Lakeside Drive, the above may be obtained wishing to submit comments any contracts before you sign. Expires November 9, 2014. December 2, 2009 at 4:30 th to transact business under 8 Floor, Suite 800, Oakland, at the Alameda County GSA regarding the potential effects 925 243-8000 to let 38,000 The Independent Legal No. The following person(s) p.m. - Highland Hospital Caf- Shop around for rates. the fictitious business name CA 94612 MANDATORY Current Contracting Oppor- the proposed facility may have households know! 2621. Publish November 19, doing business as:Livermore eteria, 1411 East 31st Street , or names listed. NETWORKING/PROPOS- tunities Internet website at on any historic property may 71) HELP WANTED 26, December 3, 10, 2009. Gas, 160 Holmes St., Liver- Oakland, CA AUTOS/BOATS/RV’S/TRUCKS Signature of Registrant: Attendance at ERS CONFERENCE- N. www.acgov.org. do so by sending comments more Ca 94550 is hereby the Mandatory Networking/ Opportunity Knocking /s/:Scott Feldstein FICTITIOUS BUSINESS registered by the following CountyRFP/SOQ - Highland 11/26/09 to: Project 61095360-SLF 10)AUTOS WANTED Auto Sales This statement was filed with Proposers Conference is NAME STATEMENT owner(s): Hospital ATR Project Special CNS-1743983# c/o EBI Consulting, 11445 DONATE VEHICLE: RE- Self-Motivated the County Clerk of Alameda required Responses Due by FILE NO.430592 Double AA Corp., 1435 Hun- Testing & Inspection Ser- The Independent Legal East Via Linda, Suite 2, CEIVE $1000 Grocery Cou- Easy Schedule on October 13, 2009. Expires 2:00 pm on January 6, 2010 vices, Wednesday, Decem- No.2627. Publish November The following person(s) doing tington Ave Ste 230, So. San #472, Scottsdale, AZ 85259 pon. Your Choice. Noahs Arc No Experience Needed October 13, 2014. business as:Indian Kabob, County Contact : Fawaz ber 2, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. 26, 2009 or via telephone at (717) Francisco Ca 94080 Khanachet at (510) 208-9824 - Support No Kill Shelters, Will Train! The Independent Legal No. 865 E Stanley Blvd., Liver- This business is conducted – Highland Project Office, 428-0401. th NOTICE OF INVITING BIDS Advance Veterinary Treat- Benefits 2614. Publish. November 5, more Ca 94550 is hereby or via email: fawaz.khana- 393 – 13 Street, Oakland, CA The Independent Legal by:a Corporation Information Notice is hereby given that ments. Free Towing, IRS Tax 12, 19, 26, 2009. registered by the following [email protected] OPTIONAL SITE TOUR – N. No.2628. Publish November Apply Within The registrant began to trans- regarding the above may be sealed competitive bids will Deductible, Non-Runners. 1- owner(s): County RFP/SOQ - High- 26, 2009 Or Online @ FICTITIOUS BUSINESS act business under the ficti- obtained at the Current Con- be accepted at the Alameda Nader Nafey, 542 Brookfield land Hospital ATR Project 866-912-GIVE. (CAL*SCAN) LivermoreAutoGroup.com NAME STATEMENT tious business name (s) listed tracting Opportunities Internet County Social Services Agen- Dr., Livermore Ca 94551 Special Testing & Inspec- ANIMALS Call Parm or Ravi @ FILE NO.431049 above on March 7, 2003 website at www.acgov.org. cy Contracts Office, 2000 DONATE YOUR CAR: Chil- This business is conducted tion Services, Wednesday, th (925) 294-7700 The following person(s) do- Signature of Registrant: 11/26/09 San Pablo Avenue, 4 Floor, 2) CATS/DOGS dren’s Cancer Fund! Help by:an Individual December 2, 2009 at 4:30 Ford / Lincoln / Mercury ing business as:Stellar Auto, /s/:Jamileh Aish CNS-1741732# Oakland, CA 94612 NET- Adopt a new best friend: Save A Child’s Life Through Registrant has not yet begun This statement was filed with p.m. - Highland Hospital Caf- 6214 Thornton Suite A5, The Independent Legal No. st WORKING/SOUTH COUNTY TVAR, the Tri-Valley Ani- Research & Support! Free Va- to transact business under eteria, 1411 East 31 Street , Newark Ca 94560 is hereby the County Clerk of Alameda 2624. Publish November BIDDERS CONFERENCE mal Rescue, offers animals cation Package. Fast, Easy & the fictitious business name Oakland, CA Attendance at registered by the following on November 18, 2009. Ex- 26, 2009 RFP CFS-MTFC 2010 – Multi- for adoption every Saturday Tax Deductible. Call 1-800- INDEPENDENT or names listed. the Mandatory Networking/ owner(s): pires November 18, 2014. dimensional Treatment Foster and Sunday, excluding most 252-0615. (CAL*SCAN) CONTRACTORS WANTED Signature of Registrant: Proposers Conference is Agha Ilyas Ahsan, 1835 The Independent Legal No. NOTICE OF INVITING BIDS Care (MTFC), Thursday, De- holidays. On Saturdays from for Senior Home Health /s/:Nader Nafey Notice is hereby given that required Responses Due by SELL YOUR USED CAR Edgewood Rd., Redwood 2632 Publish November 26, cember 17, 2009, 8:30 a.m. 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, both dogs Care Must Have Experience This statement was filed with sealed competitive bids will 2:00 pm on January 6, 2010 City Ca 94062 December 3, 10, 17, 2009. – Alameda County Social Ser- and cats are available at the HERE. Senior Solutions, Inc. the County Clerk of Alameda be accepted in the office of County Contact : Fawaz This business is conducted vices Agency Eden Area Self- Pleasanton Farmers Market at Call Barbara at 925 443-3101 on October 21, 2009. Expires NOTICE OF INVITING BIDS the GSA-Purchasing De- Khanachet at (510) 208-9824 925-243-8000 by:an Individual Notice is hereby given that Sufficiency Center, 24100 W. Angela and First Streets. Registrant has not yet begun October 21, 2014. partment, County of Alam- or via email: fawaz.khana- Amador Street, Shooting 0R www.independent- sealed competitive bids will Information Two locations will showcase to transact business under The Independent Legal eda, 1401 Lakeside Drive, [email protected] Star A, 6th Floor, Room 637, news.com Pay by Credit No.2622. Publish. November be accepted in the office of the 8th Floor, Suite 800, Oakland, regarding the above may be cats only: Petsmart in Dublin the fictitious business name GSA-Purchasing Department, Hayward, CA NETWORK- from noon to 4 and the Pet Card or names listed. 19, 26, December 3, 10, CA 94612 obtained at the Current Con- County of Alameda, 1401 tracting Opportunities Internet ING/NORTH COUNTY BID- Food Express in Livermore for any Classified or Signature of Registrant: 2009. MANDATORY NETWORK- RFP Lakeside Drive, Suite 907, website at www.acgov.org. DERS CONFERENCE from 1 to 4. On Sundays, Display ads. /s/:Agha Ilyas Ahsan STATEMENT OF ING/PROPOSERS CONFER- CFS-MTFC 2010 – Multidi- Oakland, CA 94612 NET- 11/26/09 This statement was filed with ABANDONMENT OF USE ENCE- N. County mensional Treatment Foster WORKING/NORTH COUNTY CNS-1741760# the County Clerk of Alameda OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS RFP/SOQ - Highland Hospital Care (MTFC), Thursday, De- BIDDERS CONFERENCE The Independent Legal No. on November 2, 2009. Ex- NAME ATR Project Commissioning cember 17, 2009, 2:00 p.m. RFQ #900662 for Carpet, 2626. Publish November pires November 2, 2014. FILE NO. 430948 Services, Wednesday, De- – Alameda County Social Ser- The following person (s) has Upholstery and Drapery cember 2, 2009 at 9:00 a.m. 26, 2009 The Independent Legal No. Cleaning Services, Tuesday, vices Agency North Oakland 2618. Publish. November 12, (have) Abandoned the use of – Highland Project Office, 393 Self-Sufficiency Center, 2000 December 8, 2009, 10:00 th NOTICE OF INVITING BIDS 19, 26, December 3, 2009. the Fictitious Business Name – 13 Street, Oakland, CA Notice is hereby given that San Pablo Avenue, Montclair Charco Enterprises dba Mag- a.m. – Lakeside Plaza Build- OPTIONAL SITE TOUR – N. rd ing, 1401 Lakeside Drive, sealed competitive bids will Room, 3 Floor, Room 350B, FICTITIOUS BUSINESS netic Mantras, 95 Windward County Oakland, CA Responses NAME STATEMENT Rm. 222, 2nd Floor, Oakland, be accepted in the office of the Common #2, Livermore Ca RFP/SOQ - Highland Hospital GSA-Purchasing Department, Due by 3:00 pm on January FILE NO.430834 94551 CA NETWORKING/SOUTH ATR Project Commission- 7, 2010 County Contact The following person(s) COUNTY BIDDERS CON- County of Alameda, 1401 The fictitious business name ing Services, Wednesday, Lakeside Drive, Suite 907, : Diane DeVore-Farrugia doing business as:Memories FERENCE RFQ #900662 at (510) 267-8633 or via referred to above was filed December 2, 2009 at 4:30 Oakland, CA 94612 NET- In A Box Photography, 2048 on October 30, 2009 in the for Carpet, Upholstery and p.m. - Highland Hospital Caf- email: [email protected] Pinon Ct., Livermore Ca Drapery Cleaning Services, st WORKING/NORTH COUNTY . Attendance at Networking County of Alameda. eteria, 1411 East 31 Street , BIDDERS CONFERENCE 94551 is hereby registered Full name of registrant Wednesday, December 9, Oakland, CA Conference is Non-manda- by the following owner(s): 2009, 2:00 p.m. – Dublin RFP #900666 for Phar- tory. Specifications regarding Nancy K. McKain, 95 Wind- Attendance at the Manda- macy Benefit Management Sonia L. Bradley, 2048 Pinon ward Common Unit 2, Liver- Public Library, 200 Civic the above may be obtained tory Networking/Propos- at the Current Contracting Ct., Livermore Ca 94551 more Ca 94551 Plaza, The Program Room, This business is conducted This business was conducted Dublin, CA Responses Due by:an Individual by:an Individual by 2:00 pm on January 6, The registrant began to trans- /s/:Nancy McKain 2010 County Contact : Jeff act business under the ficti- This statement was filed with Thomas (510) 208-9613 or tious business name (s) listed the County Clerk of Alameda via email: jeff.thomas@ above on October 12, 2009 County on November 16, acgov.org Attendance at Signature of Registrant: 2009. Expires November Networking Conference is /s/:Sonia L. Bradley 16, 2014. Non-mandatory. Specifica- This statement was filed with The Independent Legal No. tions and bid copies regarding the County Clerk of Alameda 2629. Publish November 26, the above may be obtained on October 28, 2009. Expires December 3, 10, 17, 2009. at the Alameda County GSA- October 28, 2014. Purchasing Department or The Independent Legal No. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS the Current Contracting Op- 2619. Publish November 12, NAME STATEMENT portunities Internet website 19, 26, December 3, 2009. FILE NO.431605 at www.acgov.org. The following person(s) doing 11/26/09 business as:Hey Nay Nay Ink, CNS-1741706# The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 - PAGE 11 LEGAL NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDS www.independentnews.com

ATTN: COMPUTER WORK. 185)FINANCIAL SERVICES 195)SCHOOLS/TRAINING 185)FINANCIAL SERVICES Work from anywhere 24/7. Up Get Out of Debt in Months! Advertisement for Training. TAX RELIEF! Do You Owe to $1,500 Part Time to $7,500/ Avoid Bankruptcy. Not a high HEAVY EQUIPMENT Over $15,000 in BACK mo. Full Time. Training pro- priced consolidation com- TRAINING. Learn to operate TAXES? Need to Settle vided. www.KTPGlobal. pany or a consumer credit bulldozer, backhoe, loader, State, Business, Payroll Tax com or call 1-800-330-8446. counseling program Free motor grader, excavator. Problems, Eliminate Penal- (CAL*SCAN) consultation CREDIT CARD Job placement assistance. ties, Interest Charges, Wage RELIEF 1-866-475-5353. Call 888-210-4534. Northern Garnishments, Tax Liens! Tired of the Same Routine? (CAL*SCAN) PHAT JOB Now Hiring! Full California College of Con- Call American Tax Relief time, travel, hotel, transpor- 187)HEALTH SERVICES struction. www.HEAVY4. 1-800-496-9891. 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TUFF GIRL FITNESS 1. Higher affordability index PETROLEUM SUPPLY: limitation or discrimination Reach 6 million Californians! in Livermore Last year we could be grateful that the Bay Area housing Afford- Keep Army National Guard’s based on protected classes, FREE email brochure. Call is offering a women’s boot Watercraft, Aircraft, Trucks & including race, color, religion, (916) 288-6019.www.Cal- camp beginning January ability Index had risen from a paltry 18 percent in 2007 to about a Tanks rolling! Expand sex, handicap, familial status SCAN.com 4th! For more info visit slightly more reasonable 30 percent. skills through paid career or national origin. IVPC does DISPLAY ADVERTISING in www.tuffgirl.com or email This year it is 49 percent, according to the California Association training. Part-time benefits. not knowingly accept any [email protected] www.NationalGuard.com/ca- 140 Cal-SCAN newspapers of Realtors. advertisements that are in statewide for $1,550! Reach reers or 1-800-GO-GUARD. violation of the law. In Alameda County, the outlook for the third quarter of 2009 is (CAL*SCAN) over 3 million Californians! 157)APT/CONDOS/HOUSE/ FREE email brochure. Call even brighter: 52 percent affordability. TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED TOWNHOUSE/RENTAL (916) 288-6019. www.Cal- That means more than half of all households in the county can AD SCAN.com (CAL*SCAN) call Barbara 925 243-8000 GOT A HOUSE FOR RENT? afford to purchase an entry-level home here. or go on-line at Let the 49,119+ households NEWS RELEASE? Cost-ef- When you consider that many families are settled in homes they www.independentnews. that read the Independent ficient service. The California purchased years ago at much lower prices, the percentage of people com Also available pay by find out about it. . To place an Press Release Service has Credit Card for Classified and ad go to www.independent- 500 current daily, weekly and being able to achieve the American Dream of homeownership is Display Ads. news.com or call Barbara at college newspaper contacts even higher. 925 243-8000 in California. FREE email bro- 2. Low interest rates CLASSIFIEDS 160)BOAT/RV and RETAIL chure. Call (916) 288-6010. Interest rates have been extraordinarily – historically – low all www.CaliforniaPressReleas- year. ************** LOOKING FOR RETAIL eService.com (CAL*SCAN) Reaches OR Conventional mortgages on owner-occupied property over the STORAGE SPACE? 38,000 Homes Great Location Off Hwy 580 almost half-century it has been tracked have averaged about 8.5 Direct mail On Kitty Hawk Road percent, including a period of double-digit rates in the ‘80s. to For Details Email: Average conventional mortgage rates have hovered between 5 and Livermore [email protected] 6 percent through most of 2009, and are currently below 5 percent. Pleasanton & Sunol 162)HOMES FOR SALE Interest rates can have even more impact on the actual cost of Call Barbara By Advertising with The Inde- homeownership than sales prices. 925 243-8000 pendent reaching over 38,000 For example, a home with a conventional 30-year mortgage of homes and businesses with 79)HELP WANTED/SALES your ad placement. Call Bar- $417,000 at 8.5 percent would run about $3,200 per month. At 6 OVER 18? AVAILABLE to bara 925 243-8000 percent, that same mortgage would cost $2,500 and at 4.75 percent, TRAVEL? Earn Above Aver- F O R E C L O S E D H O M E it would cost only $2,175 per month. age $$$ with Fun Successful AUCTION. Northern Califor- That’s a savings of more than $12,000 per year between current Business Group! No Experi- nia. 150+ Homes. Auction: ence Necessary. 2wks Paid December 5, REDC / View and average interest rates. Training. Lodging, Transpor- Full Listings www.Auction. Looked at another way, payments on a $417,000 mortgage at tation Provided. 1-877-646- com RE Brkr 01093886. 5050. (CAL*SCAN) 4.75 percent equal payments on a mortgage of about $285,000 at 8.5 (CAL*SCAN). percent. That’s a significant difference. MERCHANDISE 60+ FORECLOSED CALI- These bargain rates won’t last forever, but while they do, those 118) FREE/GIVEAWAY FORNIA Homes selling by auction December 9th - 12th, looking to buy or refinance have an exceptional opportunity to save GOT OLD JUNK 2009 valued from $32k to money. FREE/GIVEAWAY $749k. Get all the details at 3. Extension of first-time homebuyers’ tax credit SECTION www.HudsonAndMarshall. Call 925 243-8000 Barbara com or call 1-866-539-1086. A tax credit for first-time homebuyers that was set to expire this 121)ESTATE/GARAGE/ (CAL*SCAN) month has been extended through April 30. In fact, homebuyers who YARD SALES 165) HOUSE/ROOMS/RENT- are in transaction as of that date may still get the credit, as long as RAIN OR SHINE! Call Bar- ALS TO SHARE the sale closes before July 1. bara 925-243-8000 or go to RENT YOUR EMPTY LIV- Qualified buyers are entitled to credits of 10 percent of the purchase www.independentnews. ING SPACE By Advertis- price up to a maximum of $8,000. com before 8am Tuesdays ing with The Independent Thus far, an estimated 1.5 million buyers who purchased homes to get your ad in for the next reaching over 38,000 homes edition. and businesses with your ad in 2009 are expected to claim the credit. 125)HOUSEHOLD GOODS placement. Call Barbara 925 4. New tax credit for other homebuyers 243-8000 Place your household items A similar tax credit – this one maxing out at $6,500 – is available here for sale. Call 170)LAND FOR SALE/OUT to other homebuyers. 925 243-8000 or go on-line OF STATE The property purchased does have to qualify as a primary resi- at www.independentnews. By Advertising with The Inde- dence, but the buyers do not have to be first-time homebuyers. This com Also you can pay by pendent reaching over 38,000 Credit Card for Classified homes and businesses with means, current homeowners who want a home that is larger or smaller and Display Ads. your ad placement. Call Bar- or in a different location may be eligible for this tax credit. 127) LOST/FOUND bara 925 243-8000 5. Higher income limits for tax credit LOST or FOUND AN ITEM 172)LOTS & AGREAGE/OUT Even better, the income limits on both tax credits are now higher FREE SECTION OF STATE – $125,000 per year for single homebuyers and $225,000 for mar- Call Barbara 925 243-8000 LAND FORECLOSURE SOUTHERN COLORADO ried couples. 130)MISC FOR SALE 35 Acres - $29,900 Rocky That is especially important in the Tri-Valley, where the median Used Chain Link Gate Mtn. views, Warranty Deed household income of about $100,000 per year is nearly twice the 13'4" Wide x 4' Tall with Survey, Utilities. Enjoy national average, according to most recent available statistics. Hinged Mounting Post and 300 days of sunshine. Low Hardware to Attach to Swing down payment. Call Today! 6. Extension of higher conforming loan limits Gate Operator Elite 1-866-696-5263, x5355 Another benefit from the federal government – one that received CSW-200-UL www.coloradoland bargains.com (CAL*SCAN) less attention but which may ultimately matter more for Bay Area Call 925-872-1321 homebuyers – is the extension of higher conforming loan limits. $250 or BO 20 ACRE RANCH FORE- CLOSURES Near Booming The basic conforming loan limit is $417,000. Last year, Congress Heavy Duty Electric El Paso, Texas. Was $16,900. temporarily increased loan limits for high-cost counties, including Automatic Gate Opener, Now $12,856! $0 Down. Take Alameda and other Bay Area counties. Swing Type over payments $159/month. This means consumers here can borrow up to $729,750 before Model Elite CSU-200-UL Owner Financing. Free Maps/ Good Working Order Pictures. 1-800-343-9444. moving into “jumbo” mortgage financing, which is both costlier and Call Lynn 925-872-1321 (CAL*SCAN) more difficult to obtain. $400 or BO 174)REAL ESTATE AUC- Again, this is especially important in regions such as ours. The DISH NETWORK. $19.99/mo. TIONS national median price of homes sold in October was $173,000. For the Why Pay More for TV? 100+ F ORECLOSED HOME Channels - FREE! 4-Room Bay Area, that figure is $390,000, according to MDA DataQuick. AUCTION, Northern Califor- The median price for home sales that closed during the same period Install - FREE! HD-DVR nia. 150+ Homes. Auction: Plus $600 Sign-up BONUS. December 5, REDC /View in the Tri-Valley was about $602,000. Call Now! 1-866-747-9773. Full Listings www.Auction. The higher loan limits will apply through 2010. Both senators and (CAL*SCAN) com RE Brkr 01093886. many House representatives from California are working to make the NOTICES/ANNOUNCEMENTS (CAL*SCAN) change permanent. 151)ANNOUNCEMENTS 7. Homebuyers tax deduction preserved Axis Health Center The National Association of Realtors was instrumental in con- 4361 Railroad Ave., Pleasan- ton. Serves Valley residents vincing Congress to maintain the tax deduction for interest on home with emphasis on those with mortgages. low income. The center has This popular benefit was on the table during discussions about general medical services, how to keep the federal budget deficit in check, but is no longer in family planning, well baby, prenatal and maternity pro- jeopardy. grams, social services, blood Most interest paid on home mortgages up to $1 million, including pressure checks, WIC food “points,” may be deducted from the income on which federal taxes are supplement programs, pre- marital blood test, sports/ paid. There are exceptions, however, so consult your tax accountant camp physicals, TB screen- for specifics on how much you are eligible to claim. ing, free transportation avail- In addition, the tax deduction for private mortgage insurance, able. 925 462-1755 which many homeowners pay, continues through 2010. 155)NOTICES 8. Homes are selling “NOTICE TO READERS: Sellers too had good news in 2009. California law requires that contractors taking jobs that to- More homes are selling, and they are moving more quickly than tal $500 or more (labor and/or a year ago. materials) be licensed by the In fact, nationwide home sales last month rose at the highest Contractors State License Board. State law also requires pace in two and a half years: a record 10.1 percent in October over that contractors include their September, according to the NAR. These numbers greatly exceeded license numbers on all adver- analysts’ expectations. tising. Check your contractor’s In Livermore, 909 home sales closed through Nov. 23 this year, status at www.cslb.ca.gov or 800-321-CSL B (2752). compared to 767 during the same period last year. Unlicensed persons taking As in other communities, lower priced homes sold faster, some- jobs less than $500 must times for more than the list price. state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by Affordability, attractive tax credits and low interest rates are to the Contractors State License thank for increased buyer interest. Board.” 9. Fewer foreclosures California foreclosure rates remain high – too high. But there is evidence of leveling off. Statewide foreclosure rates held steady from July to August, then fell a dramatic 6 percent from August to September, with another 1 percent decline from September to October. Troubled homeowners continue to struggle, but more are finding solutions in mortgage modifications and short sales, thus avoiding foreclosure. 10. Tri-Valley delights And finally, we can be grateful that we get to live in beautiful Tri-Valley communities in the midst of the vibrant diversity of the Bay Area, in the most exciting and innovative state of this great country. What could be better than that? Cher Wollard is a Realtor with Windermere Welcome Home in Livermore. PAGE 12 - The Independent, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

Photo - Doug Jorgensen Opening round of the Division I NCS playoffs saw Amador Valley High School lose to College Park 34 to 21. In the photo, Falcon running back Dalton Turay (33) is grabbed from behind. The other Pleasanton team in the playoffs, Foothill High, advanced to the next round with a 59 to 37 win over Logan of Union City. Foothill will face De La Salle in a Nov. 27, 7 p.m. game.

annual Bah Humbug. 5k Run/Walk on Sat., Greene 211 in the Sirs and Sirettes league. Photo - Doug Jorgensen Dec. 5. This 3.1 mile course is a certified, flat, Youth bowler, Shawn Donohue shot a paved route beginning at 2694 Bishop Drive Fastpitch Tryouts Amador Valley High School Lady Dons celebrated after defeating Granada, 29 to 7, for the Division 1 The Valley Stompers is putting together 717 series with games of 233-268-216 in the in the Bishop Ranch Business Park. Generation Gap on Sunday. Eric Alvillar, in Race is open to all ages with medals a competitive 18u team for the summer North Coast Section Championship. The Dons win puts them into the Division 1 CIF State Volleyball season. The team will be playing in both the same league,bowled 67 pins over average given to the top 3 finishers in 18 different with a 187 game. Championships. The Amador hosted Menlo Atherton from the Central Coast Section on Tuesday. age groups for those 5 and over. Costume Showcase and Bracket Play tournaments awards will also be given for Most Grinch- throughout the summer. Tryouts are Sat., Dec. Amador is one of fifteen Division 1 schools still in contention for the State Championship. Like, Best Holiday Spirit, and Best Group 5 at Monte Vista High School, 3131 Stone Theme, as well as complimentary holiday Valley Rd., Danville, 9 a.m. to noon. Please Edge Gymnastics ornaments for all participants. arrive early to warm up. Questions? Email EDGE Gymnastics competed in the Race day registration begins at 7:30 a.m. [email protected] 2009 NorCal Level 5 State Championships information and to download the registration is $50 per child and half off after the second and the race starts at 9 a.m. Registration forms hosted by Edge Gymnastics in Livermore (continued from page 8) form, visit www.livermoregirlssoftball.org, sibling. Please contact springtrainingcamp@ and online registration can be accessed from November 21-22. email registration@livermoregirlssoftball. comcast.net for information. our website: www.SanRamon.ca.gov or by Water Polo Results: Level 5: 8B Jennifer Daws , 5th org or call 925-556-5259. calling 925.973.3200. Register now for winter water polo. all-around 35.75, 4th beam 9.15, 5th bars 9.1, LGSA Tryouts The LARPD Lazers Water Polo Team is 6th tie floor 9.0, 7th tie vault 8.5; 8C: Skylar Spring 2010 recreation season tryouts Sharks Tickets currently registering youth and teens for Relova, 5th all-around 35.525, 4th vault 8.75, will be held on Saturday, December 5 for Baseball Camp San Jose Sharks hockey tickets are on sale Baseball Winter Camp winter water polo, November 30, 2009 to 4th tie floor 9.1, 5th bars 8.875, 6th tie beam all registered 10U and Middle School girls. now through the Livermore Area Recreation February 7, 2010. To register, call 925-373- 8.8; Jessica Pulver, eighth all-around 34.425, 4th Annual Tri-Valley Baseball Camp and Park District. Livermore High Varsity Baseball Coach Tryouts will be held at Joe Michell School, will be held Sun., Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It 5751, or visit www.larpd.dst.ca.us. For more 5th tie vault 8.65, 6th tie bars 8.8, 6th tie beam All tickets are $51 for seats in the Upper David Perotti is hosting a winter baseball 8.8; Stephanie Lowe, 9th all-around 34.35, 1001 Elaine Avenue, Livermore. For more is open to girls and boys ages 5 to 13. The cost camp on December 21-23. Each camper will information about the Lazers, visit lazerswp. Reserved section at HP Pavilion in San Jose, clubspaces.com. 5th beam 8.9, 8th bars 8.775 home of the Sharks. Buy your tickets now receive individual instruction from coaches 9A: Hannah Skepner, 2nd bars 9.3, 7th for the following games: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. and Livermore High players, a snack each tie vault 8.675; 9B: Isabella Baldacci, 8th 11, vs. the Dallas Stars; 7:30 p.m. Saturday, day and a camp shirt. The 5-12 year old tie bars 9.25; 9C: Brianna Londeree, 6th Jan. 9, vs. the Detroit Red Wings; or 7 p.m. camp costs $125 and runs from 9:00-12:00 Bowling News bar 9.35; 9D: Serena Chan, 2nd all-around Saturday, March 27, vs. the Vancouver everyday. Those signing up before December Dale Melberg bowled games of 223- 228-177 for a 628 series (120 over) in the 36.675, 2nd bars 9.6, 2nd beam 9.275, 3rd Canucks. 15 (postmarked), pay only $105. The camp is floor 8.95, 4th vault 8.85 Proceeds from Sharks tickets purchased being held at Livermore High Varsity Field Getaway Fours league at the Granada Bowl in Livermore. Dave McGuigan rolled a 246 10C: Danielle Mullins, 4th all-around through LARPD will help provide class rain or shine. For more info to sign up please 35.675, 4th vault 8.85, 5th floor 8.875, 6th scholarships to low-income children in the contact David Perotti at (925) 586-2811 or game in the Tuesday Match Point league, Robert Bourque a 243 game and Mark tie beam 9.225; 10D: Rhianne Khweled, 2nd community. [email protected] or check website all-around 36.75, 1st floor 9.5, 2nd beam Tickets are available for purchase now www.eteamz.com/lvb Eiden a 224. Steve Riddle bowled 67 pins over average with a 226 game and Doug 9.375, 6th vault 8.775, 7th tie bars 9.1 and make perfect holiday gifts. To buy tickets, 12A: Julia Morgin, 4th all-around 35.6, call LARPD at 925-373-5700. Parker was also 67 over with a 235 game Track and Field Sign Ups in Donna's Mixers on Thursday morning. 2nd bars 9.425, 2nd floor 9.15, 5th tie vault Gene Bruihl shot 279 and Ray Salas 278 in 8.95; Natalie Mauch, 8th all-around 34.775, Athletics America is accepting ap- 8th vault 8.825, 8th bars 8.85, 9th tie beam plications for youth athletes between the the Cheyenne league. PGSL Registration Senior bowler Keith Anderson bowled 69 8.775; 13: Claire Koupal, 4th all-around 2010 Registration is now open for all ages of 7-17. 35.6, 2nd beam 9.15, 5th floor 8.85; 14-15; Athletes 18 and older are also invited pins over average with a 210 game. Jo-Ann divisions in the Pleasanton Phantom Girls Braden turned in a 192 game (55 over) in the Lydia Henders , 5th all-around 35.7, 1st bars Softball League. All girls living in Pleas- to join the club and train during the adult 9.525, 4th tie beam 9.025, 5th vault 8.9, 9th sessions. Monday Primetimers. Chuck Edeal rolled a anton , Dublin and Sunol are eligible to 206 game and Bill Ormond a 213 and Dick tie floor 8.25 play PGSL softball. Two ways to register: Practices are held year round on a 1) Online at www.pleasantonsoftball.org; 2) voluntary/drop-in basis and are scheduled Mail-in: PGSL, P.O. Box 911, Pleasanton, CA on Monday through Friday in locations in 94566 (download a registration form from both Pleasanton and Livermore. the website). Late registration fee applies Club participants will have the option after December 1, 2009. For more informa- of competing in AAU and USATF cross tion or questions, contact Christine Tanis at country events, as well as several all-com- [email protected]. ers track meets. For practice times and locations, please visit www.athleticsamerica.com or call Pleasanton Rage U12 Premier LaBella, Hannah McGillivray, Kayla Bah Humbug. 5k Run/Walk Coach Rik Richardson at 925-518-9356 or won League Championship in Bowers, and Christy Jensen. The City of San Ramon Parks & Com- e-mail [email protected] munity Services Department will host the Menlo Park, defeating the Menlo Park Strikers 4 to 1. In a flurry of activity in the first half, shots- on-goal were taken by Carley Robertson, Kayla Bowers and Sophie Santos. Malissa Shadle also took a shot before Sami LaBella was fouled in the box. Defender Hannah McGillivray placed the Penalty Kick straight into the goal for Rage’s first score of the game. Not long after that, mid-fielder Hailey Mann blasted the ball over the heads of the defenders and the keeper for an impressive goal. The second half continued with Rage making an assault on the net with shots-on-goal by Roberston and Bowers and additional shots by Robertson and Makenna Elias. Shortly after the Strikers scored their only goal of the game, Julia Densmore scored on a well-placed ball by Shadle. Then scored a second time with an assist from Katlyn Franciskovich. Bowers, Robertson and Shadle marked their appearances for the day with consistently strong play. The game was won by steady performances by all team members. Photo taken by Rennie Bowers pictures team members (front row) Malissa Shadle, Carley Robertson. Middle Row: Jasmine Dessouky, Makenna Elias, Brookey Villanueva, Sophie Santos, Hailey Mann, Katlyn Franciskovich, Eilis Hegarty; and (back row) Juliana Leedeman, Coach Trisha Gonzales, Julia Densmore, Sophia Brown, Sami THE INDEPENDENT • SECTION II THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 Art, Community, & Education

Festivities marked the official opening of the Devcon Holiday Ice Rink, 400 Old Bernal Avenue in downtown Pleasanton, last week. The ice rink (subject to weather conditions) will be open weekdays noon to 10 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Ice skating admission is good for a two hour session and skate rental is included in admission fees. Cost is $14 for adult skating pass age 12 and over for Pleasanton residents, $16 nonresidents; child Pleasanton resident $12, nonresidents $14; seniors $10. Pictured are members of Golden State Synchronized Skating Teams. 2 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 Art & Entertainment Holiday Music Fills the Air . . . Valley Concert Chorale Invites Peo- ple to Sing-It-Yourself Messiah

Valley Concert Chorale will experience to the area, complete host its fourth annual Sing-It-Your- with professional soloists and ac- self Messiah. companiment by our internation- It will take place at 7 p.m. on ally-known concert pianist Daniel Sun., Dec. 6 at Trinity Lutheran Glover.” Church, 1225 Hopyard Road, Singers are encouraged to bring Pleasanton. their own copy of Messiah, though The community is invited to extra copies will be available to join in singing Part I of Handel’s borrow. The event is also open great choral masterpiece, also to those who wish to listen to the known as the Christmas portion performance. of Messiah. The portions conclude Tickets are $10 in advance or at with a powerful rendition of the the door. Advance tickets may be Hallelujah Chorus. ordered by calling (925) 866-4003, “This is the fourth year we are or by email to info@valleycon- hosting the event for the commu- certchorale.org. Students 18 and nity, which has quickly become a under are free if accompanied by holiday tradition for the region,” a paying adult. said Valley Concert Chorale Presi- More information about the dent Doris Slater. “Last year’s Valley Concert Chorale is available event was a big success, drawing at www.valleyconcertchorale.org over 100 singers from around the or by calling the general informa- Tri-Valley and beyond. It’s great tion line at (925) 866-4003. being able to offer this musical Valley Concert Chorale Chamber Symphony Offers Special Performance of Handel's Messiah The Pacific Chamber Sym- Concert Band phony will present a special per- formance of Handel’s Messiah Plans on Tuesday, December 8, in the Bankhead Theater. The concert 'Seasonal will feature a chorus made up of outstanding local soloists and Surprises' at chorus members. Handel’s Messiah is one of Performance the monumental works in all of The Pleasanton Commu- musical literature. It is probably nity Concert Band presents the most widely performed reli- “Seasonal Surprises” featur- gious work in the world. It was an ing works by Mendelssohn, instant success when it was first Anderson, Holst and other performed in 1742. It was written composers. in just 24 days. The music of the holiday In 1741, Handel was broke, tired, and discouraged. Two unre- season will include familiar lated events converged to change holiday melodies as well as a all that. First, Handel’s wealthy few musical surprises. friend, Charles Jensen, gave Han- The Holiday Concert will del a libretto that he had written be performed on December based on the bible and the book of 6, at 2:00 p.m. at the Amador common prayer, and asked him to Pacific Chamber Symphony Theater, 1155 Santa Rita provide a musical setting. Second, Road, Pleasanton. Handel received a commission pieces in the history of music was large chorus and a large orchestra. detail. The Amador Theater from a Dublin charity to compose complete. The original chorus and orchestra, In any version, however, The doors will open at 1:40 p.m. a work for a benefit performance. The work was first performed although large by contemporary Messiah is an inspired and inspir- The concert is free though Handel combined these two com- at a charitable event in Dublin on standards, were of more moder- ing work of art that rarely fails to donations are appreciated. missions, and the result was The April 13, 1742, with Handel him- ate size. The Pacific Chamber elicit reverence and joy. For more information call Messiah. self conducting from the keyboard. Symphony’s interpretation ad- Tickets are $38/$32/$26. They 925-846-5897 or go to the On August 22, he started work It was an immediate success. It heres more closely to the earlier are available at the LVPAC box Pleasanton Community Con- office at the Bankhead theater, on the piece, never leaving his raised 400 pounds and freed 142 performances, and contains many cert Band website www. elements from the original Dublin online at the website livermore- house, and barely pausing to eat men from debtor’s prison. pleasantonband.org. or sleep. A little over three weeks Today, The Messiah is often presentation. This approach allows performingarts.org, or by phone later, one of the greatest master- performed in large halls, with a for more subtlety and attention to at (925) 373 6800. Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 3 Varied Musical Program Opens Livermore-Amador Symphony's 47th Season The Livermore-Amador Sym- The mood then changes to phony orchestra opens its 47th one of harmony and order with season under the direction of Brahms’ Variations on a Theme by conductor, Dr. Arthur Barnes at Haydn. When composed (1873) it the Bankhead Theater on Saturday was considered to be innovative in December 5, at 8 p.m. Music from that it was the first set of indepen- four centuries will be featured. dent variations for orchestra in the The program opens with the history of music. The initial, some- playful and exuberant music from what austere, theme is followed Mozart’s overture The Marriage of by eight variations, each of which Figaro. Based on Beaumarchais’ has its own distinctive character. writings this is a melodic way of The finale is a restatement of the poking fun at the aristocracy of original theme that is gradually that era. built on a repetitive bass rhythm to produce a grand climax. Joan Tower’s award-winning piece entitled Made in America is the third work to be featured in this program. She explained that her decision to name this piece was based on her affection for the Livermore-Amador Symphony (photo, Jim Oliver) community orchestra. She was amazed to find how many of these groups existed and how geographi- No. 3 to be played by Marilyn that he created music that touches sic Director and piano teacher at cally diverse they were. In her Thompson. This popular work us emotionally. Sonoma State University. view, although less skilled than has been the theme song in several Thompson has a string of ac- “Hits from Four Centuries” will their professional counterparts, movies.. Thompson suggests that complishments - both as a per- be performed Saturday, December the players are enthusiastic, work the reason for such popularity is former and an academic. Her ver- 5, at 8 p.m. Bankhead Theater, hard and play because they enjoy that it immediately catches at the satile career has included chamber Livermore. For more information playing. listener’s heart strings. Although, concerts at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln visit the website at www.livam- The second half of the pro- based on simple melodies and Center, and Boston’s Symphony symph.org. For tickets call (925) gram is dedicated entirely to rhythms, Rachmaninoff was able Hall. She is the pianist for the 373-6800 or visit livermoreper- Marilyn Thompson Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto to combine them in such a way Navarro Trio and is Chamber Mu- formingarts.org. Festival of Carols Performed at Centerpointe Presbyterian Church A Festival of Carols featuring “Joy to the World.” to present this celebration of sea- The handbell choir is directed The suggested donation is $10 traditional Christmas music as Special Bible readings for the sonal music combined with the by Betty Gail Hunt. with proceeds going to support the well as some unusual arrangements Advent season, including the Na- appropriate Bible readings. It will A reception will follow the con- church's choral music program. will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. tivity story from Luke 2, will be be a wonderful event for people cert in the church’s worship center. 13, at Centerpointe Presbyterian interspersed with musical selec- who enjoy great music.” Church, 3410 Cornerstone Court. tions. The audience will be invited Performing the music will be to sing-along on some numbers. the Centerpointe choir and the Organist and choir director Ka- church's handbell choir. They will tie Walda will perform Christmas be accompanied by musicians carol improvisation as well as a playing stringed instruments. French Noel on the church's Allen The program includes candle- organ. light singing of “Silent Night,” as “Great Christmas music per- well as traditional favorites “Hark formed by choirs is one of the the Herald Angels Sing,” “Angels traditions of the Advent season,” We Have Heard on High,” and said Walda. “Our choir is pleased 4 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 Community My Favorite Hike? Well, Since You Asked… By Bob Coomber

after Blue Oak and Hummingbird trails diverge. Staying on Blue Oak, I know I’ll have a rocky “down” followed by a short, steep “up” – both of which seem bliss- fully sane today. The “up” is fol- lowed by a nice flat stretch beneath a canopy of blue oaks and singing birds. The day is gorgeous. I’m still on the easy part, still steeling myself for what’s to come. Blue Oak meets once again with Volvon, and I return to the relative ease of that trail. There’s a nice flat spot at a gate that makes a perfect place to look around and listen (have you noticed a theme yet?). It was warm enough that crickets were still making charming cricket sounds. Large black beetles and I crossed paths several times on this trek, as well as small spiders and big red ants. I could spend a day just watching one square yard of this ground, taking in all that goes on in such a small community. But not today. I’ve only just begun, and soldier on. I’ve now reached Bob Walker Ridge, named for the late outdoors enthusiast whose photographs of local parkland are legendary for their beauty. Bob could capture a moment, and Morgan Territory was one of his favorite subjects. The Volvon Loop circles Bob Walker Ridge. I’m going to circle from the east side of the ridge, since that will allow me to see the Sierra Nevada in the distance. On One of the views in the Morgan Territory area. a windy winter day, if the sun’s out, you can clearly see the Sierra, I see a lot of double takes when and turn. look for critters and bugs. There’s As always, I start on the Volvon and note some of the landmarks if I go out to some of my favorite First off, make sure you have no point going if you’re trying to Trail, meandering toward my turn you’re so inclined. Today’s a little trails. That’s easy to understand. water, a camera, sun screen – all set a speed record, right? to the Blue Oak Trail without a lot hazy, but I still stop many times to Not every day will you come the things you’d bring on a day Making the long drive up the of urgency. Overhead, hawks and take in the valley and the distant across a hiker in a wheelchair hike. Pick up a map at the park- hill to Morgan Territory’s parking vultures keep a look out for their mountains. This is a really won- sitting sideways on Mt. Diablo’s ing lot – since this is an East Bay area finds me full of anticipation. own distinctly different tastes in derful part of today’s hike. Being steepest grades. As a result of Regional Park District hike, maps Where will I have the best chance food. Blue Oak Trail is my usual on the east side of the ridge has these encounters, I get asked are easily located on line (ebparks. of finding a quiet trail? I draw a fall Praying Mantis locator, but an added benefit, as it will shield “what’s your favorite hike?” fairly org) or at the trailhead. Look at the picture of the long loop hike in they were scarce this day. That’s a hiker from the wind blowing off frequently. weather, too, as a clear fall or win- my head. Then we’re here. It’s OK, too, as it’ll give me a reason Mt. Diablo. So here goes. It’s not easy to ter day will be a great time to go. warm, even though it’s November. to come back. I recall how hard Following the Volvon Loop trail find a singular favorite, as bad My favorite open space, the There’s only a very slight breeze some of these gentle hills used is easy, eventually winding down hikes are a bit like bad chocolate place where I got my start as a – not enough to add anything more to be when I began hiking in the in elevation on the west side of the – it’s very, very tough to find one. wheelchair hiking enthusiast, is substantial than a windbreaker to chair, and how silly that now circuit. Once rain starts in earnest, But after reading through notes, Morgan Territory Regional Pre- my pack. I notice my chair has seems. Good conditioning really small, dry rivulets will become tiny reliving all the great hikes right serve. It’s fitting that my favorite is broken another brace, and ques- makes a difference in one’s enjoy- creeks and add more to the ambi- here in our Tri-Valley and looking within this spacious and quiet local tion whether I should be going ment level. Blue Oak winds gently ence. As I reach the low point in the at them less than objectively, I’ll jewel. It’s the perfect time of year on as long and rough a trail as I’d around quiet grass fields, and I stop loop, I have a choice of two trails tell you about my all time favorite. to visit, as birds and animals are ac- planned. Deciding to tempt fate, I to listen to the breeze playing with – do I go “easy” and follow Stone It’s a long one for me, probably tively preparing for winter. Temps roll up the short hill to the interior the vegetation. Acorns are falling Corral Trail all the way down to not quite as rough if you’re walk- have cooled to the “no sweat” on the east side of Morgan Terri- from the big Valley Oaks, as well Morgan Territory Road, or….naw, ing it. But plan on taking the most threshold. Activity is all around tory Road. Today already feels like as the Blue Oaks. let’s live a little. I make a right turn of a day to really savor each twist you as you amble along – stop a winner. My first real test comes shortly onto the Eagle Trail, sliding over every once in awhile to listen and Community THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 5

Make a note to find your way to Morgan Territory and try this hike, or some part of it. Fall is great. Spring is beautiful. Winter is muddy. But there’s no “bad” time to be out there. the piles of acorns dropped from challenged me almost to the point couple of them shaking their big stretch many times I descend into has an uncanny way of dipping old Valley Oaks. This is a seldom of giving up – now the hills are just heads, asking “what the heck is the canyon. A grove of California far below Livermore or Pleasanton used trail – I’ve never run across part of the landscape, not easy, but a guy in a wheelchair doing out Buckeye trees grows on a flat just temps once the seasonal cool- another hiker on Eagle. Most pre- not too tough, either. here?” That’s what it sounded like between the two hills. It almost ing begins. Finally, you have my fer Stone Corral, but that would be Make a passage through a anyway. looks like it was planted by com- favorite local hike, and there are too easy. Heading up Eagle, I stop second gate and the trail opens Clyma is an interesting trail, mercial interests, then abandoned many variants if you want a shorter about halfway to take in a view of up a little. There’s a short hill, but winding past a couple of accesses when the buckeye market went hike or wish to take advantage of Highland Peak to the southwest. it soon levels off to a nice little to the single track trails in the south, or some equally silly notion. the Morgan Backpack Camp off I see my next intersection just a meadow where I’ve seen coyotes canyon below. I tried going down This is a nice stop on a warm day of Highland Ridge and west of few yards away. It’s the start of chasing ground squirrels. Again, that way once, lived to tell about when the trees are leafed out. But Clyma. It’s a much nicer time of the Highland Ridge Trail, most of this part of the park is not heav- it (barely) but learned enough not it’s getting late, and I’ve got only year to hike this one than in July which is on the west side of the ily used – hikers I meet out here to venture down again. It’s dif- a short scamper to the car. or August. Be prepared – bring a road. This trail has the benefit, are never there by accident. They ficult in a chair, but a nice walk Reaching the lower canyon, the lot of water, a light jacket, and a for me anyway, of making a long know how wonderful this long if you’re upright. I’m sticking to trail becomes a wide single track, map, as previously mentioned. I downhill run to its meeting with loop can be. I don’t see mountain the high road today, and it’s get- winding through lush laurels and also pack my headlamp, but heck, Stone Corral. After a short rest I bikers here, either, which is a ting late. Sunlight wanes in the across what would be a creek if I’m slow and need it more than let ’er rip, stopping only to ease shame. It’s a challenge whether late afternoon, but it’s still warm. we had any rain. After a short you. But be prepared in order to the burn in my hands from trying to on foot or pedaling. It’s a trail for I have less than two miles to go. push to the road, I crossed it back be safe. Make a note to find your stay under control. One of several the explorer in us. Endurance is a My favorite feature is just ahead to the parking area. And though way to Morgan Territory and try advantages for me is there are no quality that isn’t innate to us all, – a small, man made pond where it was almost dark, I was sorely this hike, or some part of it. Fall is foot blisters, no worn shoes. And I and takes work to acquire. Once I’ll stop for a few minutes and tempted to head back out, just for great. Spring is beautiful. Winter don’t get calf or quad burn coming you do, though, you can do just wait for animals. Certain times of a few minutes to wait for the owls is muddy. But there’s no “bad” down steep hills. I may run into a about anything. Trails like today’s day are better than others, and the to start up. Shoulders caught me, time to be out there. Hope we meet tree or something, but hey, look make for a perfect excuse to get pond was almost dry – after a few though, complaining that they’d along the trail! Ma, no blisters! in shape. minutes I heard something rumble had enough. I was convinced to Got a trail you’d like to hike or At the bottom of the hill you’ll Stopping to watch the meadow through the brush, only to see two load up the chair and pack to head want to see in print? Please let me notice some of the vegetation’s and take a quick breather, I park dogs run down and jump into the home. know – my e – mail is mr4wheel- changed. The oak savannah at the at the final trail turnoff – a left pond. They were just a couple of I didn’t compute an exact mile- [email protected] . Have a great top has turned into creekside trop- onto the Clyma Trail. This trail country hounds out for a good age, but believe the trip as I’d fin- time exploring! ics – you’ll find it cooler and the is only a few years old, and very time. They waited, naturally, to get ished is a bit more than 8 miles. As trees and brush denser. Laurel and few venture down its gentle grade. wet and muddy before stopping to the year gets later, bring warmer alder trees give this part of the jour- From here, after a long day of say hi to me. Hey, thanks for the clothes, too – Morgan Territory ney an aroma so fine it should be ups and downs, I know I’d have shake, guys. bottled and savored on those long to contend with a long, shallow Clyma runs just east of a large winter days when you’re stuck grade before dropping back to the section of land banked EBRPD indoors. A creek bed meets up parking lot, down a couple of roller property. It will one day be open, with the trail. Although the creek’s coaster ride hills. The breeze has hopefully accessing Highland dry now, in a “normal” rain cycle picked up now, only to the point Peak. I’ll let you know how that it’s a year round stream. This is a of refreshment rather than obnox- hike feels once the access and trails wonderful place in spring. You’ll iousness. It feels good! Passing an are established. Following Clyma also have blue jays checking in on old orchard, I stop to watch some to a flat, sharp corner begins the you, as well as a constant cadre cattle who have stopped to watch best part – at the top of a short of woodpeckers. I could take a me. They don’t appear too miffed ridge, the parking lot is in view. nap here….I could, but I’m barely at my presence in their domain, so The trail is now almost completely halfway through the trip. Onward I say goodbye as I move onward “down”, and since I’ve done this we go, west to the Morgan Terri- and upward. I thought I saw a tory Road crossing. At Morgan Territory Road I was in No Man’s Land…just past halfway with the hilliest part in front of me. The East Bay Regional Park District had the foresight many years ago to place accessible gates on both sides of the road at the Highland Ridge crossing, and I’ve put them to good use. Once on the west side of the road, you’re instantly climbing, though not se- verely. The laurels are thicker over here, which makes this short sec- tion a nice place to rest on a warm day. Highland Ridge Trail is also part of the Diablo Regional Trail – staying on this trail will bring one into Mt. Diablo State Park, which is a good hike for another day. This is another trail that once 6 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 Community Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 7

Author at Livermore Library Gerald S. Henig, Professor earned his M.A. from the Univer- Emeritus of History at California sity of Wisconsin and his Ph.D. State University, East Bay, discuss- in American history from The es Lincoln at 200: In Fact Rather Graduate Center, City University Than Fiction at 2pm on Sunday, of New York. He has written nu- December 6 at the Livermore merous articles on the political and Public Library 1188 S. Livermore military history of the Civil War, Avenue in Livermore. There is no and is the author of Henry Winter charge for this event. Davis: Antebellum and Civil War Professor Henig commemorates Congressman from Maryland, and the bicentennial anniversary of co-author of Civil War Firsts: The Abraham Lincoln’s birth, separat- Legacies of America’s Bloodiest ing fact from fiction with a lively Conflict, which was a selection of presentation on our enigmatic the national prestigious History sixteenth president, as he focuses Book Club and the Military Book on Lincoln as a great emancipa- Club. In April 2007, the book was tor, commander in chief, political published in paperback as A Na- leader, constitutionalist, architect tion Transformed: How the Civil of reconstruction, and as an un- War Changed America Forever. common man. In view of his outstanding record, Talk Title: 'The Gerald S. Henig will soon The Graduate Center of the City Philosophical complete his thirty-ninth year of University of New York honored teaching. One of the most deco- Jerry with its Annual Alumni Baby' rated professors on campus, he Achievement Award for 2008. received the Outstanding Profes- The Friends of the Livermore Alison Gopnik, a leading child sor Award and was a four-time Library have underwritten this scientist, will give a presenta- winner of the Pi Kappa Delta Best program. For additional events, tion at the Pleasanton Library on Lecturer Award. After graduating check the library’s website at “The Philosophical Baby: What from Brooklyn College, Jerry www.livermore.lib.ca.us. Children’s Minds Tell Us About Truth, Love, and the Meaning of Life.” Display Features 20,000 Christmas The talk will be at 2 p.m. on Sun., Dec. 6. Lights Programmed to Music Gopnik examines children’s “Livermore Lights” is unlike Viewers wishing to share in the imaginations, their consciousness, any other home that is decorated and their ideas about love and magic need simply to drive up, for the holidays. It has 48 inde- tune to the posted radio station morality, and finds that the way pendently controlled channels they play, pretend, and explore are and enjoy their own personal light that make over 20,000 Christmas show with friends and family. Tricia Poulos Leonard stands in front of her painting, "Midnight actually part of the most profound lights, flood lights, and rope lights and fundamental aspects of human Join “Livermore Lights” on on the Boulevard." dance in sync to music. Christmas Eve between the hours nature. In her provocative new Matt Phipps started two years book The Philosophical Baby, Ali- of 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM to receive ago, at the age of 17, with 16 a free cup of hot chocolate and a son Gopnik asserts that babies and control channels and a few strings Artist to Present Talk Prior to Parks young children are in some ways candy cane (while supplies last). of lights. Today he has created The display will be available for “actually smarter, more imagina- “Livermore Lights” with 48 chan- & Rec Commission Meeting tive, more caring, and even more viewing from Nov. 28 to Dec. 25. nels of control and over 20,000 Hours are 6:30 to 10 p.m. Sunday Pleasanton artist Tricia Poulos Leonard will be presenting a talk conscious than adults are.” lights. Programming a 2 minute This program was funded by a thru Thursday and 6:30 to 10:30 on "Understanding Abstract Paintings” on December 7 at 6:15 pm at song takes him approximately 16 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 646 Pleasanton City Offices. Her presentation will take place in front of grant from Fit for Life, an initia- hours. It involves choreographing tive of Libraries for the Future and Zermatt, Livermore. her abstract painting “Midnight on the Boulevard,” which is on display the lights to the beat, melody and Guests last year said: “It re- in the lobby of the City Offices at 200 Bernal Avenue. That night, her Metropolitan Life. bass line of the music. Family and For more info regarding the minded me of Disneyland;” “How painting will be on the Parks and Recreation Commission agenda to be friends are helping in the massive did you do that?”; “WOW!;” and considered for purchase by the city. program call Penny Johnson at set up this year. 931-3405. “I’m coming back with my whole Tricia is offering the presentation as a free educational event open to The experience starts the day family.” the public. According to Tricia, “I find that many people are intimidated The program is free and open to after Thanksgiving and plays every all. No registration required. For more information and di- by abstract art because they have not been educated in how to look at this night through Christmas, between rections visit the website www. type of art. I intend to offer some historical background on the develop- the hours of 6:30 PM and 10:00 LivermoreLights.com. ment of the abstract genre and help people understand what the viewer PM. needs to bring to the art in order to understand and enjoy it. I will also give the background and inspiration behind my abstract, “Midnight on Beth Emek to Host Noted Historian, Lecturer the Boulevard”. Tricia is an artist and an educator, with 30 years of experience in Congregation Beth Emek in The program will be held CA 94566 and admission to Mr. Pleasanton Unified School District. She has a BA in Studio Art from Pleasanton will host Fred Rosen- Thurs., Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m. Rosenbaum’s presentation is $15. UCLA. Tricia’s UCLA background in art gave her an ability to create baum, acclaimed historian, teacher From Levi Strauss, A.L. Gump This event is part of the 21st in many different styles. Most recently she has been working in mixed and lecturer and founding director to Gertrude Stein and many others, Annual Contra Costa Jewish Book media abstracts. Her abstracts have won numerous awards in the past of Lehrhaus Judaica, the Adult Jews have significantly impacted & Arts Festival, presented by the few months, including the Pleasanton Civic Arts Council 2009 Award School for Jewish Studies in the the Bay Area as miners, boxers, Jewish Community Federation of Excellence and Best of Class at the 2009 Alameda County Fair. Her San Francisco Bay Area, speaking mountaineers, tycoons and social of the Greater East Bay and the work has been accepted at an International Show in Colorado and won about his new book, “Cosmopoli- reformers. Contra Costa Jewish Community an award at Placerville’s Mother Lode National Show. tans: A Social and Cultural History Cong. Beth Emek is located at Center, and is co-sponsored by Tricia’s website is www.triciastudio.com and she may be contacted of the Jews of the San Francisco 3400 Nevada Court, Pleasanton, Congregation Beth Emek. at: [email protected]. Bay Area.”

8 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 Art & Entertainment

ART EXHIBITS the entire month of Dec. Works in pastel, Orchestra and Band Concert, Las Positas 510.659.6031, www.smithcenterpre- December 5. 18th annual winter concerts oils and a few of her miniatures will be College, Wed., Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. at Res- sents.com entitled “Gaudete! Gaudete!” (Rejoice! on display. Meet the artist at the reception urrection Lutheran Church, Dublin. $12 Dance Performance, Las Positas College, Rejoice!) includes medieval, classical, on Thurs., Dec.10 from 7:00 - 8:30. For general admission and $8 for students Dec. 4 and 5, 8 p.m. Las Positas College traditional and contemporary music more info call or write Barbara 925-373- and seniors. For further information Theater, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Liver- sung in Latin, Hebrew, Finnish, Basque 9638, [email protected], www. call the Performing Arts Events Line at more. $12 general admission and $8 for and English. Singers in grades K-12 will barbarastanton.com or the Wild Vine. 925-424-1100 or call Cindy Rosefield at students and seniors. For further informa- perform choral works accompanied by Information 925-243-0700, events@wild- 925-424-1119 tion call the Performing Arts Events Line pianists and guest instrumentalists at vinelounge.com. www.wildvinelounge. Golden Bough, Dec. 4, 8 p.m. Amador at 925-424-1100 or call Cindy Rosefield the Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Street, com/index.php Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton, at 925-424-1119. Livermore. 1:30 p.m concert features Pleasanton Civic Arts Presents, Tickets Valley Dance Theatre, celebrates its 30th training and performing choirs; 4:00 WINERY EVENTS at http://civicartstickets.org or (925) Anniversary Season with its annual full- p.m. concert features performing choirs Surrealist Claudette McDermott unveils Holiday Preview, Nov. 27-29, 11 a.m. to 931-3444. length production of the Tchaikovsky’s only. Reserved seating available at the her latest work "Birth of an Artist," in 4:30 p.m. Wente Vineyards will welcome Hits from Four Centuries, Livermore- holiday classic The Nutcracker. Perfor- box office or call (925) 373-6800. Seats a solo exhibit presented by Poetry On early holiday shoppers for tastings of Amador Symphony Concert. Sat., Dec. mances Bankhead Theater, 2400 First are $20, $15 and $10. More information, Canvas at the Berry Patch. Working Wente Vineyards sustainably farmed 5, 8 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Street in Livermore. December 12-20. cantabella.org or call (925) 292-2663. in layers, Claudette begins with a estate grown wines, including The Nth St., Livermore. $26, $28. 925-373-6800, Public performances will be accompanied raw canvas and acrylic to texture her Degree wines, tours of the cellars, and www.bankheadtheater.org. the Livermore-Amador Symphony pit OPERA other gifts available in the Estate Tast- Asbury Christmas Concert – Asbury orchestra and holiday carols by Harmony Live Theater-Casts from the Met: 10 backgrounds with a palette knife. Thick ing Room. www.wentevineyards.com. United Methodist Church will hold its Fusion. Evening performances will take a.m. Saturdays at Dublin's Royal Haci- and quick, moving in all directions when Special tasting flights will be developed 13th Annual Christmas Concert at 7 PM place December 12, 18, 19 and 20 at 7:00 enda Cinema. Dates: Dec. 19, Tales of the acrylic dries, it takes shape only when at no additional charge. Wente Vineyards on Sunday Dec. 6, 2009 in its Sanctuary p.m. Matinee performances will take place Hoffman; Jan. 9, Rosenkavalier; Jan. she rubs oil, translucent and handmade Estate Tasting Room, 5565 Tesla Road, at 4743 East Ave. in Livermore. All of on December 12, 13, 19 and 20 at 2:00 16, Carmen; Feb. 6, Simon Boccanegra; paint into the nooks and creases. After Livermore. Asbury’s vocal choirs, the Asbury Band p.m. All seats are reserved. Tickets are March 29, Hamlet; and May 1, Armida. a creative process of rubbing off, the Thomas Coyne Winery Winter Open and the bell choir will be performing. $33, $27 and $24 for adults and $18 for Replays of each opera will be shown on layers come alive and now the painting House, Nov. 27, 28 and 29, noon to 5 Asbury’s pipe organ will also be part of the students 17 years and younger. They may Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. as follows: Jan. begins, with brush in hand and the Artists p.m. New varietals will be released: 06 evening’s musical offerings. The concert be purchased online at www.bankhead- 6, Hoffman; Jan. 27, Rosenkavalier; Feb. Visions, the Breath of Life is upon the Tannat, 07 Graciano, 06 Mourvèdre, 08 is open to the public. A free will offering theater.org or by phone at 925-373-6800. 3, Carmen; Feb. 24, Simon Boccanegra; canvas. Exhibit this week only at 350 Sweet Emilie (a white port style). Visit the can be made at the door. There will be a Tickets may also be purchased in person April 14, Hamlet; and May 19, Armida. historic tasting room located 51 E. Val- punch and cookie reception immediately at the theater box office, 2400 First St., Main Street 11-7 daily. lecitos Road., Livermore, Ca. The tasting following in the Fellowship Hall. For more Livermore, Tuesday-Saturday, 12 noon- MISCELLANEOUS room was built in 1881 and is a landmark information call Jean Braun at 449-4168, 6:00 p.m., and for two hours prior to show Art and wine crawl, downtown Livermore Art and wine crawl, downtown Livermore in the Livermore Valley Wine Country. the church office at 447-1950 or e-mail: time. More information is available www. on Friday, November 27th from 5:30-8 on Friday, November 27th from 5:30-8 Bring a picnic and enjoy sweeping views [email protected]. valleydancetheatre.com. p.m. Over ten galleries, open studios, p.m. Over ten galleries, open studios, of the Livermore Valley Wine Country. Christmas Concert, The public is invited businesses and tasting rooms will be businesses and tasting rooms will be Fine fruits and cheeses will be served. to a free Christmas concert at Our Savior AUDITIONS/VOLUNTEERS open. Pick up a map of participating open. Pick up a map of participating For more information call (925) 373-6541 Lutheran Ministries, 1385 South Liver- Livermore's 2010 Talent Competition locations at the newly opened Ryan Fine locations at the newly opened Ryan Fine http://thomascoynewinery.com more Avenue, in Livermore on Sunday, is now accepting applications. Aspir- Art Gallery, 171 South J Street. There is Art Gallery, 171 South J Street. There is Fenestra Winery Annual Prelude to December 6, at 4:00 pm. This concert is ing performers are invited to audition no charge. www.lindaryanfineart.com or no charge. www.lindaryanfineart.com Christmas, November 27, 28, and 29 from a gift to the community. It will feature and compete in the next Livermore call 925-243-0424 or call 925-243-0424 noon to 5 p.m. There is the normal $5.00 choral, handbell, brass, woodwind and Talent Competition. Information and Speech Tournament, Las Positas Col- The Lindsay Dirkx Brown Gallery is tasting fee for this event. The 130-year-old string music. Our Savior will begin an applications are available at www. lege, Fri., Dec. 4, 1 to 5 p.m. Las Positas hosting an exhibit featuring the Livermore winery building will be decorated in the effort to collect and donate new shoes LivermoresTalentCompetition.com. Ap- College Theater, 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Art Association from November 1-30. Christmas spirit. Taste holiday foods with and socks at this event. Concert-goers plications must be received by December Livermore. $12 general admission and The gallery is located at 12501 Alcosta Fenestra wines. Stained glass art by Ellen are encouraged to bring shoes or socks 11, 2009. The top winners in each age $8 for students and seniors. For further Blvd. in San Ramon. Monday-Thursday Bryant; jewelry by Michele Bucket; knit- of any size; we will be happy to receive category – youth (17 and under) and adults information call the Performing Arts from 8:30 a.m.-9 pm and Fridays from ted stockings and scarves by Jan Bachman; them and deliver them to Lutheran Social (18 and over) – will take home $2,500. Events Line at 925-424-1100 or call Cindy 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. (925)973-3200 or go to quilts by Marla James; and barrel stave Services of Sacramento and Shepherd’s This year's event is open to anyone from Rosefield at 925-424-1119. www.sanramon.ca.gov. candle holders made from Fenestra barrels Gate in Livermore. anywhere, not just Bay Area residents. The Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland, a Holi- An exhibition by oil artist Amy D. Leung by Ken Petersen. For more information, Pleasanton Community Concert Band, two Rotary Clubs of Livermore are again day Home Tour on Sunday, December at John Christopher Cellars, at Blacksmith visit the website at www.fenestrawinery. holiday concert Dec. 6, 2 p.m. Amador sponsoring this event. All net proceeds 6, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in downtown Square, 25 South Livermore Ave., Liver- com or email [email protected]. Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton. will go to the community grants that are Pleasanton. Benefit for Valley Humane more until November 29. Available for 84 Vallecitos Rd., Livermore. 447-5246 Free admission. presented by the Rotary clubs throughout Society. Home tour, shopping, treats, viewing every Thursday to Sunday from or www.fenestrawinery.com. the year. Information is available at www. live music. Tickets are $35 per person. 12:00 -6:00 PM. For information please Tamas Estates, holiday preview, Nov. 27, ON THE STAGE livermorestalentcompetition.com. Proceeds go to support the programs of call 925-456-9463. 28, 29, 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sample class Opera San Jose, performs Cinderella in the Auditions for “Rent,” the Pulitzer Prize- Valley Humane Society, a nonprofit ani- Artists Angela Johal and Katie Caulk vintages including library wines and the Fast Lane: La Cenerentola. Nov. 14-29. Winning musical at Las Positas College. mal rescue organization. Contact Valley works on display at Windermere Welcome Barbera Port. Bring a new unwrapped Italian with English supertitles. California Monday and Tuesday, December 14 and Humane Society at (925) 426-8656 or Home realty through Jan. 4. 1790 First toy for Toys for Tots. 5489 Tesla Rd., Theatre, 345 South First St., San Jose. 15 from 7-10 at the LPC Theater. Bring www.valleyhumane.org. Valley Humane Street, Livermore. The show is open for Livermore. Information 456-2380, www. $51-$91. www.operasj.org. a prepared song appropriate to the show, Society is located at 3670 Nevada Street, viewing during regular business hours or tamasestates.com. Plaid Tidings, holiday edition of Forever with sheet music. An accompanist will Pleasanton and is open Tuesday through by appointment. Contact Cher Wollard at Wente Vineyards offers a preview to the Plaid, November 19 to December 6, be provided. Callbacks on December 21. Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m Tickets can also 925 824-4824 or cherw@windermere. holidays with a Thanksgiving weekend Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings at Rehearsals will be on Monday through be purchased at Towne Center Books and com for information. tasting, November 27, 28, 29, 11-4:30 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. The Douglas Friday nights beginning January 19. The Wine Steward. Flying Solo, a series of exhibits presented by pm. Enjoy a fun and relaxing weekend, Morrisson Theatre, 22311 North Third Performances are April 2 through 18. Ken Poetry On Canvas Pleasanton showing in while you plan your holiday gift-giving. St., Hayward. $25 adults, $22 seniors, Ross will be director and producer. For COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS November & December at the Berry Patch Taste special vintages of handcrafted Nth $25 juniors/students. For tickets call the more information, call (925) 424-1166 or Great Western & Atlantic Train Show, in Downtown Pleasanton on Main & An- Degree, plus cellar selections at all the box office at (510) 881-6777 or go on-line email [email protected]. Nov. 28-29, Alameda County Fair- gela. Schedule-Gary Winter- Nov 29-Dec winery locations: Wente Vineyards Estate towww.dmtonline.org. grounds, Pleasanton. The show features 5; Judi Caplan- Dec 6 -12; Dee Haag- Dec Winery Tasting Room, Wente Vineyards MOVIES 200 - 500 tables of train dealers who offer 13-19; Claudette McDermott- Dec 20-26; Vineyard Tasting Room, Murrieta’s Well, DANCE White Christmas, Dec. 3, classic film everything from HO scale, N scale, Lionel Stan Vierk - Dec 27 - Jan 3. and Tamás Estates. Wente Vineyards, 5565 The Dream Of The Snow Queen, Liver- series hosted by Candace Klaschus, Las (0 gauge), G gauge, Z scale, American Eugenia W. Zobel Exhibit, December 2009 Tesla Rd., Livermore. www.wentevine- more School of Dance holiday show. Positas College. 7:00 p.m. in the Pleas- Flyer (s gauge), hobby tools, die cast AND January 2010, Wente Vineyards yards.com, (925) 456-0439. Performances will be at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. anton Public Library, 400 Old Bernal vehicles, train whistles, scenery items, Estate Winery, 5565 Tesla Road, Liver- on Sat., November 28 at the Bankhead Avenue, Pleasanton. Free. Information: Railroadiania Slides, t-shirts, videos, more. New works of porcelain paintings. MUSIC/CONCERTS Theater. Original story about a young 925-931-3405. railroad gift item, books, photos and much Artist's reception on Sunday, December Livermore Amador Symphony, concert child trying to find the true meaning of the It’s a Wonderful Life as part of its new more. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. Special: 13, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. For information Dec. 2, “Hits from Four Centuries,” 8 holidays. $26, $20 and $18; seniors (65 Classic Cinema series Sunday, December Sell old trains, get free appraisals on site. call 925-443-7266. p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., yrs.) and children 12 and under receive 13, at 2:00 p.m. Grand Theatre Center www.greattrainexpo.com Karen Fleschler will be showing her paint- Livermore. Marilyn Thompson, piano. $3.00 discount. 925-373-6800 and on-line for the Arts, 715 Central Avenue, on the All Breed Cat Show, Nov. 28-29, Alameda ings at Swirl on the Square, 21 South 925-373-6800, www.bankheadtheater. at www.bankheadtheater.org. corner of Central and Seventh Street, County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton. Pre- Livermore Ave., Livermore; Cuda Ridge org. Ohlone College Winter Dance Showcase, Tracy. Tickets are $7.50 for General Ad- sented by Fog City Cat Club. 9 a.m. to Winery, 5385 East Ave., Livermore; and Music Department Recital, Las Positas tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, hip hop, mission seating. They may be purchased 4 p.m. both days. Cat show for over 12 Tesla Vintners, 5143 Tesla Rd., Livermore College, Wed., Dec. 2, 12:30 p.m. Free ballroom, and modern dance. Thurs.-Sat. online at www.atthegrand.org, by phone breeds. Lots of vendors with gifts, toys, through December. admission. On campus, 3000 Campus Hill Dec. 3-5, 8 p.m. Smith Center at Ohlone at (209) 831-6TKT (6858) or in person at supplies, cat trees, beds, artwork, cloth- Barbara Stanton's Figurative Work will Dr., Livermore. For further information College, 43600 Mission Boulevard in the Leona Darr Willis Box Office. ing, jewelry & more. Special: Pedigreed be featured at the Wild Vine in downtown call the Performing Arts Events Line at Fremont. $10. Proceeds support com- kittens for sale, rescue kitten and cat Livermore, Dec.10 to 31. Her Figurative 925-424-1100 or call Cindy Rosefield at munity outreach, costume needs, and CHORAL adoptions, household pet cat judging too. work will be on display at the Wild Vine 925-424-1119. performance supplies. Information Cantabella Children’s Chorus, Saturday, Adult $6, Child $3, Seniors $5, parking $8. www.fogcitycatclub.com Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 9

The Cantabella Children’s Chorus members are preparing for their 18th annual winter holiday concerts, “Gaudete! Gaudete!” (Rejoice! Rejoice!), which will be held for the first time at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore, 2400 First Street, Saturday, December 5. The 1:30 p.m. concert will feature the training choirs and the performing choirs. The 4 p.m. concert will feature the performing choirs only. Director Bee Chow has programmed an unusual mix of choral works from around the world. The program ranges from medieval songs and Handel’s classical Aria Achsah to LeRoy Anderson’s Sleigh Ride, from arrangements of traditional carols to contemporary sounds. The Cantabella choristers will sing in Latin, Hebrew, Finnish, Treasures with Alaina Braatz and Abi Johal, courtesy of Dance Connection. Basque and English. Guest artists will add accompaniments on guitar, violin, cello, flute and percussion. Reserved seating is available at the Bankhead box office or call (925) 373-6800. Seats are $20, $15 and $10. Dream of the Snow Queen to Be Performed For more information, cantabella.org or call (925) 292-2663. Livermore School of Dance will discount. Bankhead theater policy - Saturday Noon to 6:00 p.m., or perform “The Dream Of The Snow states; Children under the age of call 925-373-6800 and online at Queen,” an original story about a 2 will not be admitted. Groups of www.bankheadtheater.org ($3.50 young child trying to find the true 10+ receive $2.00 discount per per ticket phone and web handling meaning of the holidays. ticket. Tickets are available at fee), or at the door 2 hours prior to Pleasanton PTA Council to The presentation showcases the box office window Tuesday performance. classical and modern ballet with Recognize Young Artists pointe work, jazz, lyrical jazz, hip hop, and Broadway show-stoppers. The Pleasanton PTA Council Over 50 entries were submitted to There is a variety of music from will hold its seventh annual Reflec- the Pleasanton PTA Council for The Polar Express, Trans Sibe- tions Arts Recognition Program recognition. They will be show- rian Orchestra, Josh Groban and on Wednesday, December 2, at cased on December 2. Entries Charlotte Church to Tchaikovsky Harvest Park Middle School’s advancing to the next level, Peralta classics from the Nutcracker. Multi-Purpose Room. The recep- PTA District, will be announced at The production will be pre- tion and showcase will begin at this event. sented at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. 6:30pm with the ceremony to fol- This is a free event. The com- on Saturday, November 28, at low at 7pm. munity is invited to attend. For the Bankhead Performing Arts The Reflections Program, spon- more information or to RSVP to Theater, 2400 First Street in Liver- sored by the National PTA, is an the event, please contact Diane more. Ticket prices for assigned arts recognition and achievement Van Wagner at vanwagners@ seating are $26.00, $20.00 and program for students. It provides comcast.net. $18.00. Seniors (65 yrs.) and chil- opportunities for students to ex- dren 12 and under receive $3.00 press themselves creatively and to receive positive recognition for original works of art inspired by this year’s theme, “Beauty is…” The program also raises commu- nity awareness on the importance of the arts in education. Local students, from kinder- garten through 12th grade, entered their work in six categories: pho- tography, visual arts, literature, musical composition, dance cho- reography, and film/video produc- tion. A total of 350 young artists from seven Pleasanton schools submitted entries for this year’s program to their local PTA or PTSA sponsored program. Reflections Committees at each school identified students in each category and age level to represent their school at the Council level. 10 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 Art & Entertainment Soroptimist Host Livermore SmARTs Unlimited Offers Variety Holiday Home Tour of Arts Programs for Kids Soroptimist International of Livermore will host the organization’s 26th annual Holiday Christmas Home Tour on Sun., Dec. 6. Five homes decorated for the holidays will be featured on the tour from SmARTSunlimited will host 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The houses this year are very unique, including an old an open house on Dec. 5 from 1 Victorian and a very new 9000 square foot home in the vineyards. to 6 p.m. The tour begins by obtaining a map at Alden Lane Nursery, 981 Alden Within each heart lies a dream Lane, Livermore. While at the nursery, there will be an opportunity to - in every soul a sense of purpose. win baskets, flowers, trees decorated with cash, etc. For Deborah McQueen, these fun- Tickets are $25, which is tax deductible. Proceeds benefit women and damentals have been the driving children through local projects and charities. force behind her seminal vision for Tickets are available at Proctor’s in downtown Livermore, Alden an accredited children’s perform- Lane Nursery and from any Soroptimist member. Tickets may also be ing arts school in Livermore. To- purchased the day of the tour. ward this purpose she has brought For information, call 449-4079 or 443-5897. to Livermore the talent of Randall Benway, a concert pianist with extensive performing, teaching, Holiday Workshop in Dublin and judging experience, to expand Dublin will host a holiday workshop at the Dublin Heritage Center the school’s upper division piano on Sat., Dec. 5 from 2 to 4 p.m. department. Those attending will be able to make old-fashioned holiday crafts such In 1995 McQueen launched as orange pomander or Victorian Scrap. There will be an opportunity for OperaSmARTS, which was de- a holiday sing-along, and to visit with an old fashioned St. Nick. Hot signed to teach opera to preschool- cider and cookies will be served. ers. “Livermore has been a won- The Dublin Heritage Center is located at 6600 Donlon Way. For derful place to develop innovative information, call 452-2100. arts programming for children” said McQueen. With the success of OperaSmARTS, parents asked Garré to Host Longaberger Kick-off for more. She began writing cur- Longaberger CEO Tami Longaberger and former Cleveland Browns riculum for general music educa- Quarterback Bernie Kosar kick off the holiday season with gift giving tion classes, piano orchestra, show ideas, displays, shopping and more at Garré Vineyard & Winery on choir, and film classes Randy Benway Wed., Dec. 2. Deborah and Randy hit it off The Longaberger Company is holding a Holiday Gathering featur- immediately, perhaps because loving it. It’s what we all want for production, “The Secret Life of ing its American craftsmanship, holiday shopping and the Longaberger they both share a common child- our kids.” Girls,” which will be held at the home business opportunity. It will include the debut of the Debut of the hood in the Midwest. Benway plans to develop the Bothwell Center on January 29, new Hershey’s Kisses Sweetheart Basket Set, San Francisco 49ers and advanced piano department. “I am 30, and 31. After-school and sum- Oakland Raiders basket sets from NFL collection, University of Southern Randy studied with Theodore going to assist on the piano side of mer classes are offered in drama, California basket sets from collegiate collection, and hundreds of others Lettvin and Arthur Loesser in her school. I help students develop music, and dance for children products, starting as low as $30. Cleveland, Raymond Hanson and a solid technique so they can play ages 2-17. ActSmART Children’s The event is free and open to the public from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Food Moshe Paranov at Hartt College anything,” he commented. Theater, a more in-depth perform- and beverages will be available for purchase. of Music, and Nadia Boulanger The idea of having an accredited ing arts summer camp for children Garré Vineyard & Winery is located at 7986 Tesla Rd., Livermore. in France. After twice declining performing arts school for children 3-17, culminates in a full scale For information, call 371-8200. a full scholarship offer form the matured slowly for McQueen. production at the Bankhead, and head of the piano department at “Many of my students are born this year’s Alice in Wonderland Carnegie Open House Scheduled Juilliard, he moved to London to artists right from the start,” says camp is nearly sold out. These study piano with Balint Vazso- McQueen. “Grant Lowenstein, for productions are open to the public The annual Holiday Open House at the Carnegie Building in Liver- nyi. Later in graduate school at example, who came to me at four and include special low cost tickets more will be held Sat., Dec. 5 from 1 to 4 p.m. the University of Michigan, he and now steals the show from his for children to attend. The building houses the Livermore Heritage Guild history center and studied piano with Gyorgy Sandor SAG leads at the Contra Costa SmARTS has applied for 501C Livermore Art Association Gallery. and Louis Nagel and composition Musical Theater. He eats, sleeps, status, after which it hopes to be The 2010 Livermore Heritage Guild calendar will be available for with William Bolcom. Presently and breathes acting. He has been able to offer financial assistance to purchase along with books, pamphlets, postcards and notecards. he performs chamber music as with us for six years and was given children from low income families The gallery offers jewelry, paintings, ceramics, textiles, and much a member of the Redwood Trio, a solid foundation with which to who would like to attend any of more. with violinist Jim Potochny and move forward.” Children deserve the on-site programs. Parents and Heritage Guild members will receive a 10 percent discount on pur- cellist Greg Colburn. He accom- an alternative. They deserve the prospective students may meet chases. Memberships will be available. panies and coaches singers at opportunity to study within an Randy, Deborah, and the entire The Carnegie Building is located on Third Street between J and K th SmARTsunlimited and helps sing- environment where art is the cen- SmARTS staff on Dec. 5 at the Streets in Livermore. For more information, call 449-9927. ers learn how to better prepare for tral focus and academic subjects SmARTSunlimited annual Open auditions with a live accompanist. are supported through integrated House. Raffle prizes include a year Sister City Organization to Pres- “Deborah’s school has it all. Sing- curriculum. of free piano lessons, voice les- ing, dancing, film, and acting; if SmARTSunlimited’s mission is sons, acting, toys for the children, ent 'Posada' it’s art, SmARTSunlimited is the hands-on demos, free assessments to give our young people a vehicle Pleasanton-Tulancingo Sister City Organization will host the tradi- place. Deborah and I have devel- of your child’s playing, and hot for self-discovery and expression: tional Mexican “Posada” on Fri.,. Dec. 18. oped a great working relationship hors d’oeuvres and champagne. to provide well-rounded training It will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Pleasanton Veteran’s Hall, 301 and have a common bond: the Everyone is welcome. in the performing arts disciplines; Main St., downtown Pleasanton. students. We really want to see The studio is located at 53 and to reach out to the community, The festivities will include carols, traditional Mexican desserts, cof- the students become great musi- Wright Bros Avenue, Suite D, particularly to those children who fee, hot chocolate and apple cider. There will be pinatas for the kids. cians. She is one of the best vocal Livermore. Information at www. cannot reach us. The event is for the entire family. teachers around and really knows SmARTSunlimited.com or (925) SmARTS is busy this year ex- There is no admission charge. Christmas basket donations of cash how to inspire her students. They 245-0283. panding programming for actors is optional, are singing, dancing, acting, and with their upcoming black box

Community THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009 11

YMCA Delegation Participates in Training Conferences The Tri-Valley YMCA’s Youth Vidya was elected Assembly Clerk & Government delegation recently and Grant Bonham was elected participated in the first of two Senate Clerk. The success of the training and elections conferences Tri-Valley YMCA delegation did at Camp Roberts National Guard not stop there as Madison Brinnon Base in Paso Robles. The 19 stu- and Jordan Nally, also Amador dent delegation was among 2,200 Valley High School freshmen, high school students from across received enough votes to become the state gathered to discuss politi- finalists in their quest to serve as cal issues and nominate and elect Forum Lt. Governor and Forum delegates for State offices. These Speaker of the Assembly, respec- two conferences are in preparation tively. They will continue on to for the Model Legislature & Court the final elections to be held at conference in February during the second Training & Elections which the Youth and Government Conference in January. delegates take over Sacramento The weekend also included to enact laws and adjudicate court time for fun and entertainment. At cases in the actual chambers of our night, students were able to attend State government. the dances, and also participate in The Tri-Valley delegation the inaugural California Idol in made their mark at Camp Roberts which students sang heartily while “Randy,” “Paula” and the infamous as Vidya Awasty and Grant Bon- It was a good year for Livermore Youth Football and Cheer (LYFC). The Warrior pee wee cheerleaders, ham, Amador Valley High School “Simon” judged them. The top freshmen, won statewide positions performers received gold tickets to age 9-11, took 1st place this year in two out of three different cheerleading competitions. The girls in the Forum (the freshmen com- perform again in Sacramento. placed 1st in the USA Regional competition at Santa Cruz at the end of September and again at the ponent of Youth & Government). Diablo Valley Youth Football and Cheer competition at UC Davis on November 8. Pictured are (left to right) Coach Denise Williams, Jaidyn Gonzales, Emily Johnson, Sophia Jones, Lauren Palma, Lexi Carzoli, Cassie Pierce, Macy Williams, Bailey Smith, Coach Kristi Kilbane, Sara Claypool; (kneeling) Kailey McFadden, Jr. Coach Taylor West, Kennidi Self, Kylie Kilbane and Alexia Burrow.

SwimStrong Raises $20,000+ Math Whizzes from Harvest Park SwimStrong, the swim-a-thon possibly help with gifts and other Team KC Foundation, which is held on Oct. 18, raised funds to necessities. run through the Tri-Valley Com- Harvest Park Middle School students Eugene Chen, Brian Shimanuki, assist the children and families Matt and Dana want to thank munity Foundation, go to www. Jerry Li and Ian Zhou competed in Mathleague's first competition of the who are dealing with pediatric can- all of those who swam, sponsored korrinecroghan.blogspot.com or year at Stanford last month. As a team, they finished first (defeating Miller cer. This was the second year the swimmers or donated either money contact Cindy Gary at TeamKC@ Middle School and John Hopkins for the first time). Eugene had a perfect event has been held. Participants or prizes. comcast.net. score of 46 to win the individual competition, Brian was second with 45, raised $20,000 with money still To find out more about the and Jerry and Ian finished with 43 and 41 respectively. They had a perfect coming in. score on the team round for an overall score of 64/66. Mathleague is in The event was started last year the same format as MATHCOUNTS - where Eugene will be defending to assist Matt and Dana Croghan, state champion in the countdown round this spring. the parents of Korrine Croghan, These four teamed with Christine Xu and Jeffrey Zhang in the Math who passed away a year ago fol- Notations third math contest in an international high school geometry lowing a battle with cancer. The contest. Harvest Park Middle School finished second (11/12) to Chiles Croghans felt that by continuing High School of Tallahassee, Florida (perfect 12/12). the event in Korrine's name, they Additionally, the 2009 Fall Start-up Event was held in September. were fulfilling her wishes to help There were several students from Harvest Park who took the test, a 100 others. problem, 30-minute individual competition. From Harvest Park, Eugene The funds earned are assisting finished first in the nation with a score of 65. Jerry Li finished 4th in the families and patients of the Kaiser country, Brian Shimanuki was 6th, Ian Zhou was 9th, Christine Xu was Pediatric Oncology Department. 11th and Hansen Shi was 12th. Funds help with rent and food and with the holidays coming, can 12 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2009

(Organizations wishing to run notices in they donate food. Collection barrels will also be – 12:00 Noon. Hope Hospice Grief Support to volunteer to provide a ride, contact Jennifer the Going Native Garden Tour, set for Sunday, Bulletin Board, send information to PO Box available at the Livermore Transit Center, 2500 Center, 6377 Clark Avenue, Suite 100, Dublin. Cullen at (925) 931-5387 or ja.cullen@yahoo. April 18, 2010, which showcases bird- and 1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care of Bulletin Railroad Ave., Livermore, 5 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (925) 829-8770. To RSVP, please call Hope com. Funding for the Senior Transportation butterfly-friendly, pesticide-free, and water Board. Include name of organization, meeting and the Wheels Administration Office, 1362 Hospice at 925-829-8770. This program is Program is provided by Alameda County conserving gardens. Gardens must be located in date, time, place and theme or subject. Phone Rutan Ct., Suite 100, Livermore, 8:30 a.m. to being held in the new location. Transportation Improvement Authority and Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, and number and contact person should also be 5 p.m. For information about Wheels call 455- Livermore Lions Breakfast Branch invites Measure B Funds. contain 50% or more California native plants. included. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday.) 7500 or go to www.wheelsbus.com. the public to a breakfast meeting on Tuesday, San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club To submit a garden, visit www.GoingNativeG- Annual Holiday Boutique, Dec. 5, 9 Toys for Tots, collection by Livermore- December 1st from 7:30 to 8:00 a.m.. at Poppy invites new and established residents to their ardenTour.org. The deadline is December 1, a.m. to 3 p.m. Veteran's Hall, 522 L Street, Pleasanton Fire Department (LPFD). Toy col- Ridge Golf Clubhouse, 4280 Greenville Rd., December luncheon on Dec. 10th at Izzy's 2009. For more information, email info@ Livermore. Hosted by the Ladies Auxiliary of lection events and locations: Annual Holiday Livermore. $10 for breakfast and program Steaks & Chops, 200 Montgomery, San Ramon. GoingNativeGardenTour.org. The Going Na- the Fleet Reserve Association. Proceeds from Parades held in Pleasanton and Livermore. – pay at the door. Call Lion Gary Potter at 11:30 -2 p.m. Cost is $19.50. Gift exchange tive Garden Tour showcases a wide variety this boutique will be given to the veteran's Parades are scheduled for Saturday, December 925-443-4144 for registration. and music by the Sweet Adelines. Call Myrna, of native gardens: established and mature hospital. 5, at 6:00 p.m. in Livermore and at 5:30 p.m. Ohlone Audubon meets 7:30 p.m. on 925-560-0656 for info. & res. gardens as well as newly installed ones; large Holiday Boutique, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sat., in Pleasanton down Main Street. Toys-R-Us Tuesday, Dec.1 at the Pleasanton Middle Eighth Annual Youth Food Drive, Youth acre lots and townhome gardens and all sizes Dec. 5 at 690 North L St., Livermore All items Toy Collection Day at Toys-R-Us in Dublin. School Library, 5001 Case Ave., Pleasanton. service groups in Livermore, Pleasanton, in between; professionally installed gardens as sold have been made by clients. Funds benefit LPFD Firefighters will collect toys by the John Mena and Adam Shawen will tell how Dublin, Sunol, San Ramon, Alamo, Danville, well as owner-enthusiast inspired ones. Garden GARDEN Tri-Valley, a nonprofit organiza- staged antique fire engine. Pacific Swimming artificial platforms benefit nesting Aechmopho- Walnut Creek and Concord may now volunteer contents range from the full horticultural suite tion for developmentally disabled adults in 14-Under Junior Olympics Championship rus Grebes. Bring slides and cookies for the and request collection sites for the Eighth An- of California natives to a mix of natives and Livermore. Hosted by the Pleasanton Seahawks, Friday member slide show and cookie exchange. nual Youth Food Drive to be held on March Mediterranean plants to locally native plants. Silent Auction and Green Boutique, to Sunday, December 4 to 6, 2009 Dolores Refreshments. Information at 510-507-3383. 6, 2010 by signing up at www.youthservice- If a garden contains 50% or more California Thursday, December 3 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 Bengtson Aquatic Center, 4455 Black Ave. Livermore Lions Host Club invites the council.com/Volunteer/Volunteer.html. Girl native plants, submit the garden by filling out pm at the San Ramon Library meeting room Pleasanton. All Livermore and Pleasanton Fire public to the Wednesday, December 9 meeting Scouts, youth ministries, and 4-H Clubs will the Garden Submission Form at: http://www. (Montgomery Street). Come and shop early. and Police Stations: Station 1, 3560 Nevada 7 PM at the Zephyr Grill, 1736 First Street be participating. Youth Service groups will goingnativegardentour.org/ Sponsored by the San Ramon AAUW (Ameri- Street, Pleasanton; Station 2, 6300 Stoneridge in Livermore for a presentation by Lions in go door to door to collect nonperishable food Job Discovery Group, meets Thursdays can Association of University Women). The Mall Road, Pleasanton; Station 3, 3200 Santa Sight program. Past District Governor Walter and return it to the closest collection site. All at 10:00 a.m. at Unitarian Universalist Church sale benefits students in San Ramon and former Rita Road, Pleasanton; Station 4, 1600 Oak Griffin will speak on the Lions role as the donations will go to local food pantries in the in Livermore. Bring resume (and maybe a few foster girls in the Renaissance Program at CSU Vista Parkway, Pleasanton; Station 5, 1200 eyeglass recycling center for the Western Tri-Valley or to the Contra Costa Food Bank. extra copies to pass around), ideas, roadblocks East Bay. The event is free to the public. Ques- Machado Place, Pleasanton; Station 6, 4550 United States which provides used glasses to Details of the program and locations of col- & any resources to share in a supportive & tions: call Julie at 828-8275. East Avenue, Livermore; Station 7, 951 Rincon Lions Clubs worldwide ensuring the glasses lection sites are available on-line. For more proactive atmosphere of networking at UUCiL. Holiday Boutique 2009, Donlon Elemen- Avenue, Livermore; Station 8, 5750 Scenic are appropriately prescribed and distributed. Information, call 925-998-6513. Contact Brent Parry or Maureen Hamm (Brent- tary School, 4150 Dorman Road, Pleasanton, Avenue, Livermore; Station 9, 1919 Cordoba The program also conducts clinic trips to Pleasanton VIP Travelers, Senior Center, [email protected]) /([email protected]) Pleasanton on Saturday, December 5, from 9:30 Street, Livermore; and Station 10, 330 Airway developing nations to properly dispense the 3535 Sunol Blvd., Pleasanton. 931-5370. for more info. a.m. - 2 p.m., in the multipurpose room. Over Boulevard, Livermore. Police Departments: recycled eyeglasses to those in need. All in- Trip to see "Beach Blanket Babylon," in San Bingo, every Sunday, Games 4 p.m. to 25 handcraft vendors with such items as hand Livermore, 1110 South Livermore Avenue; terested individuals are invited to attend - $20 Francisco, Dec. 16, includes dinner at the 8 p.m. 18 $250 pay-outs, 1 $350 payout, & designed jewelry, journals, dollhouses, soaps, Pleasanton, 4833 Bernal Avenue. includes meeting/dinner/talk – pay at the door. Crab House, $126. Victorian Christmas trip more! Bingo Ranch, 3070 Pacific Avenue, personalized candy bar wrappers and coffee Free Gift Wrapping Party, for seniors Contact Lion Gary Potter at 925-443-4144 for to Nevada City, Dec. 20, $42 members, $44 Livermore. 606-7777. Must be 18 years old to sleeves, greeting cards, t-shirts, holiday decor, only, 2nd annual event hosted by Visiting more information nonmembers. attend. Pacific Avenue, Livermore. 606-7777. music CDs, dolls, and many other gifts. Angels. Dec. 7, 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. at the Health & Fitness Fair, Livermore Civic Reading Volunteers Needed, new group Benefits LVCS / CCEF. Christmas Boutique and Pancake Robert Livermore Community Center, 4444 Center Public Library, 1188 So. Livermore forming to start training in January to become a RELIGION Breakfast. Saturday, Dec 5 from 9 a.m. - Noon. East Ave., Livermore. Limit is three gifts per Ave., December 12 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Barton Reading Tutor. No experience is neces- Divorce Care, Valley Bible Church, 7106 Open to the Public. A pancake breakfast is person, maximum size 9"x12"x18". Gifts are Boardroom. Includes refreshments, healthy sary and training is free of charge. Volunteer Johnson Dr., Pleasanton. 13 week seminar and available for $6 from 9 a.m.-11a.m. Hosted to be boxed. No boxes provided. For informa- snacks, protein smoothies and a raffle drawing. matched to a student who needs help. All the support group for people who are separated by the Livermore Cresta Blanca Girl Scouts. tion, call 443-1000. Demonstrations on how to use a balance ball, materials and training provided needed to bring or divorced. Meetings Mondays from 7 to 9 Located in the Fellowship Hall of the First Friends of the Vineyards Annual Holi- dumbbells and elastic bands. Opportunity to a student’s reading and spelling up to grade p.m. $25 for workbook and other materials. Presbyterian Church. 2020 Fifth Street, Liver- day Party, Sunday, December 20, 2 to 5 p.m. check blood pressure, resting heart rate, body level or above. For more information about Preregistration is required. Contact Mark more. For more information contact Valerie at Music, good food, and wine at the historic fat composition and provide participants with the Barton Reading Program, please contact Porter, 846-9693 or [email protected] 925/577-9052. Ravenswood Estate, 2647 Arroyo Road, Liver- beginning measurements. To RSVP email tuff- Christina Clark at Valley View 925/596-0292, for details or to register. Christmas Craft Faire, Sunday, Dec. 6, 1 more. Harpist Dominique Piana will provide [email protected] or go to www.tuffgirl. or email [email protected]. Advent Extravaganza - St. Charles Bor- to 6 p.m. St. Clare's Episcopal Church, Pleasan- holiday music. The board of directors will pro- com. There is no admission charge. Livermore Moms (formerly Livermore romeo, 1315 Lomitas in Livermore, invites one ton. Handmade gifts, live holiday music, food vide light refreshments. Please bring local wine Dublin Senior Center, trip to Healdsburg, Moms Club) meetings are held the second Mon- and all to attend the Advent Extravaganza on and door prizes. Admission is $8 (kids 5 & under to share. This invitation is open to all Friends Dec. 12, 9:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Includes wine day of each month at 7:00 p.m. and are a great Friday, December 4th at 7:00 to 9:00 pm. The are free) & includes holiday food sampler and of the Vineyards members and guests. country Christmas party, no-host lunch, $30 way to meet other members as well as learn evening will include the Nativity story; a Youth one door prize ticket. For more info, contact Valley Spokesmen Bicycle Touring Club, resident, $35 nonresident. 556-4511. www. more about our community and our roles as Ministry skit; singing carols; creating a family St. Clare’s Episcopal Church at 925-462-4802 Sat., Nov. 28, 47 miles Scotts Valley to Santa ci.dublin.ca.us. mothers. The purpose of the Livermore Moms Advent prayer votive; and cookies & cider. or [email protected] or visit the church website Cruz, meet 10 a.m., Heidi Fraser, 451-1430. Tri-Valley Democratic Club, seasonal is to share ideas and talents so that we may Admission price is food goods or a monetary at www.stclarespleasanton.org Sun., Nov. 29, 30 miles Sunol onto Calaveras party, Sat., Dec. 12, 5 to 7 p.m. IBEW Hall, grow as parents, learn better ways to understand gift which will go to Tri-Valley Food Pantry. A Holly Day Affair DancEscape, 7 to 10 summit, meet 9 a.m. at Livermore Cyclery in 6250 Village Pkwy, Dublin. Congressman our children to help them become confident For questions contact Julie at upcatholic@aol. p.m. Dec. 5 at the Dublin Senior Center, 7600 Dublin, Bob Heady, 980-7989. Wed., Dec. 2, 38 Jerry McNerney will host the event. Dinner and capable individuals. We frequently invite com or 925-447-4549 ext 114. Amador Valley Blvd., Dublin. The decorations miles Livermore to Pleasanton and Blackhawk provided by the campaign, you can bring des- speakers to make presentations. Meetings are St. Charles Borromeo & St. Michael's are up. The fire is delightful. Celebrate the back to Livermore, meet 10 a.m. at the airport, sert. Volunteers needed to help with the party, free for members, as well as for first time visi- Catholic Churches, present Fr. Bob Mendonca season with friends and the big band sounds of Bill Goodwin, 487-0521. Club meeting Wed., contact Doug Graven 530 320 7022, doug@ tors. Contact [email protected] for speaking on "Shepherd and Sheep." The pro- 3 O'Clock Jump. Swing, tango, rumba, waltz Dec. 2, 7 p.m. Round Table Pizza in Dublin, jerrymcnerney.org, more information gram is Thursday, Dec. 3, between 9:15 -11:15 and cha cha, too. $9 Dublin resident, $10 non- election of officers. Anyone planning to go on The Dream of the Snow Queen, Nov. 28, Free English Conversation Classes at a.m. Childcare is available for a nominal fee. resident by Dec. 4 / $12 at the door. 925-556- a ride is asked to contact the leader for details 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Livermore School of Dance Pleasanton Public Library on Tuesdays from Contact Cheryl at 925-292-0506. Hosted by 4511, www.DublinSeniorCenter.com on where to meet and what to bring. presents a holiday story showcasing classical 7 p.m. to 8:30 pm, Wednesdays from 12 noon WINGS (Women In God's Spirit), a group Walkin’ in a Winter Wonderland, a Livermore-Amador Genealogical Soci- and modern ballet, jazz, hip hop and Broadway to 1 p.m., and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 11 for women of all religious backgrounds. At Holiday Home Tour on Sunday, December 6, ety, meets Tuesday, December 8, at 7:30 p.m. showstoppers. The Bankhead Theater, 2400 a.m. 400 Old Bernal Ave. The program is the St. Charles campus, 1315 Lomitas Ave., from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in downtown Pleasanton. at Congregation Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada First Street, Livermore. Tickets: $26, $20 and free and open to all. No registration required. Livermore. Benefit for Valley Humane Society. Home Ct., Pleasanton. Christine Rose will speak on $18, seniors and children receive $3 discount. For more information call Janice Bauman Faith Assembly of God, Pleasanton, 6656 tour, shopping, treats, live music. Tickets "Military Records Between the Revolutionary Box Office 925-373-6800 or online at www. (925)-931-3411 Alisal St. Sunday school for all ages 9:30 are $35 per person. Proceeds go to support and Civil Wars." Visitors welcome, no charge. bankheadtheater.org. No web/phone fee ($3.50) Sons in Retirement (SIRS), informal a.m., workshop 10:30 a.m., children's church the programs of Valley Humane Society, a Map to the site: www.L-AGS.org/maps/PLS- at the Box Office. social group for retired men who meet once a (ages3-12) begins at 11:15 a.m. Last women's nonprofit animal rescue organization. Each of BethEmek.html Marie Ross 925-447-1806 Tuff Girl Fitness in Livermore is offer- month for lunch. No fees, dues, etc. Variety of Bible study for '90 at 10 a.m., 55+ senior the eight featured homes on the tour is unique. La Leche League International, free ing a free preview boot camp for women in activities include golf, chess, hiking, etc. The ministry meets first Friday of each month 7 For more information and to purchase tickets woman to woman breast-feeding support. Livermore on Saturday, December 12 from 8 Livermore SIRS 101 group meets at the Dou- p.m. Women's ministry will host a Christmas to the Holiday Home Tour, contact Valley Meets first Monday of each month 10 a.m. a.m.-9 a.m. at a indoor location in Livermore bletree Hotel, 720 Los Flores Rd., first Tuesday luncheon on Sat., Dec. 5 at noon. Cost per Humane Society at (925) 426-8656 or www. to noon, Trinity Baptist Church, 557 Olivina, (TBA). Morning workout, refreshments, of each month, 11:45 a.m. Contact Chuck Petty, person i $12. Bring an ornament to exchange. valleyhumane.org. Valley Humane Society is Building B #205, Livermore. Please RSVP healthy snacks, protein smoothies and a raffle 447-4704 or [email protected]. Please call the church office, 846-8650, if you located at 3670 Nevada Street, Pleasanton and to Stacy Hattori, 373-0987. dshattori@sbc- drawing afterwards. To sign up for this free Gardens are being sought to participate in would like to attend the luncheon. is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to global.net, www.LLL.org. 24-hour hotline, boot camp go to www.tuffgirl.com or send an 5 p.m Tickets can also be purchased at Towne 1-877-452-5324. Net meetings: Dec. 7, Jan. email to [email protected] Center Books and The Wine Steward. Tickets 4, Feb. 1. Thanksgiving Dance, Single Profes- may also be purchased the day of the event at Book Sale, Friends of the Livermore Li- sionals of all ages are invited to celebrate Lions Wayside Park. brary monthly book sale on Sun., Dec. 6, noon Thanksgiving with new single friends, Sat- A Giving Tree will be set up in the lobby to 4 p.m. in front of the former library, 1000 urday, November 28, 8 p.m.-midnight, at the of the Livermore Police Department through So. Livermore Ave. in Livermore. Fiction and Pleasanton Marriott, 11950 Dublin Canyon Dec. 17, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. Those nonfiction books and audiovisuals are sold at Road, Pleasanton. Adults of all ages are wishing to donate, select a tag from the tree deeply discounted prices. There will be a table welcome. $20 at the door includes dancing to and bring back a new unwrapped gift with of free books. From 3 to 4 p.m., books will be current hits and oldies. Coat & tie/dressy attire the tag attached. Monetary donations cannot sold for $2 a shopping bag full. are recommended. Anyone who wishes more be accepted. However, gift cards are always Livermore Adult Education is seeking a information about this and many more singles welcome. The Police Department is located Spanish speaking instructor to teach a bilingual parties may visit www.ThePartyHotline.com at 1110 So. Livermore Avenue. To arrange beginning computer class for the Winter/Spring or call 415/507-9962. for a sponsorship or more information, call session. Need not be credentialed. For further Tri-Valley Seniors: rides available to 371-4976. information call 925-606-4722 ext. 7142. medical appointments. Seniors who require 16th Annual Holiday Food Drive, drop Handling the Holidays, Planning ahead, door-to-door service are now eligible for a nonperishable food donations into the food examining feelings and fears, brainstorming ride to their medical appointments. Volunteers bank barrels available aboard all Wheels buses with other family members, and expectations use their personal vehicles to drive seniors to during the period of Mon., Nov. 30 to Sun., are areas we will explore. Hope Hospice offers and from medical appointments. Seniors must Dec. 6. All food collected will be donated to the a program to discuss strategies that can make be 60 and over, living in Dublin, Livermore, Tri-Valley Haven Food Pantry. Unlike in past a difference in how to manage to “Handle the Pleasanton or Sunol, and unable to find a ride years, riders will be required to pay a fare even if Holidays." Friday, December 4, 10:00 a.m. (relative, friend, bus, paratransit). For a ride or