Orinda’s #1 News Source! The Orinda News Gratis Published by The Orinda Association 12 Issues Annually Volume 30, Number 1 Delivered to 9,000 Households and Businesses in Orinda January 2015 Orinda Association Names Volunteer of Year By MAGGIE SHARPE Staff Writer Volunteer of the Year “I have known Dick for over 10 years, he Orinda Association (OA) has named and to me he personifies the real spirit TDick Burkhalter its 2014 Volunteer of behind the Volunteer of the Year award,” the Year and Orinda Intermediate School’s said OA president Bill Waterman. “He Others First organization the recipient of has selflessly volunteered to help the com- its 2014 William Penn Mott, Jr. Environ- munity on several fronts, from his many mental Award. different Rotary Club activities to Orinda Community Foundation work to driving our seniors in the OA’s Seniors Around Town program. He always has been ‘hands on’ in MARY FRIESE Students in OIS' Others First program wrapped presents at the Bay Area Crisis Nursery in mid- that he takes the initiative and always seems December. L-R (standing): Lucy Wilson, Mina Jenab, Spencer Schneide, Isabella Nordstedt, ready to pitch in and help.” Emma Stephens, Arman Marchiel and Chinmai Srinivas, (sitting) Sophia Pinto, Stephanie Burkhalter said he is honored to receive Friese and Mikayla Smith. the award. “It is quite an honor to be selected as the Volunteer of the Year in a give back to the community that has given tee, Orinda Association, Seniors Around community that is full of volunteers, and so much to our family. That is where it Town, Soccer 4 All, Orinda Chamber of it is a great experience to be associated all started, and I’m still enjoying helping Commerce, Orinda Public Works Aesthetic with all these wonderful folks,” said Bur- others.” Review Committee and Shingletown Lions CONTRIBUTED PHOTO khalter. “We moved to Orinda in 1970 so As well as the Rotary Club, Burkhalter Club. Burkhalter has travelled extensively Orinda Association's 2014 Volunteer of the Year that our children could attend these great has served with the Orinda Community on behalf of Orinda Rotary in support of Dick Burkhalter (L) pictured with "one of the lo- public schools. When I joined the Orinda Foundation, Grandfather’s Club of Ameri- various international projects, including cals" on a recent trip to Australia Zoo in Adelaide, Australia. Rotary Club in 1990, I found the avenue to ca, Lamorinda Village Formation Commit- [See Awards page 14] Monteverde Apartments Opens Its Doors to Seniors By FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER varying income levels: seven units for the Staff Writer lowest Average Median Income (AMI), 14 at the next level and 45 units at a higher fter a three-month delay, the Mon- AMI level. Each unit can accommodate up Ateverde senior apartment complex to three people. Rental prices at each level at 2 Irwin Way recently opened its doors vary according to the number of persons in to residents. Named for the verdant green each unit and the head of household must hills surrounding the property, Monteverde be at least 62 years of age. offers 67 affordable one-bedroom/one- Monteverde is the first affordable hous- bathroom apartments, each between 616 ing complex built in Orinda since the 1980s. and 717 square feet. It is situated at the site of the former Orinda Built by Eden Housing, whose mission library – a site that was identified by City of is to build and maintain high-quality, af- Orinda officials during a previous round of fordable housing communities for those the Housing Element that called for increas- with lower incomes, Monteverde serves es in Regional Housing Needs Allocation. FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER low-income seniors earning at or below 30 A deed restriction on the property required Monteverde, the new senior apartment complex at the corner of Irwin Way and Orinda Way, opened in to 50 percent of the Contra Costa County that the land be used for a public benefit and December to its first residents. area median income. Residents pay 30 not for commercial development. percent of their household income for rent. In 2008, the city issued a Request for Pro- A specific number of units are held for the posals for the development of an affordable OUSD Faces Wave of Criticism senior project and Eden was selected to de- velop the property. Eden participated in an By SALLY HOGARTY old Freiman, the school principal initially extensive entitlement and approval process Editor handles any questions of residency. “The during which many community meetings principal would talk to the parents, the where held. Eden modified Monteverde’s he Orinda Union School District’s student and office staff. Most incidents are design based on community input. T(OUSD) actions to dismiss and then resolved at the school level. If it can’t be The new community is located in the reinstate a second-grade Latina student [See District page 19] downtown Village area at the corner of made the district and the City of Orinda the Irwin Way and Orinda Way across from topic of myriad publications and Internet the Safeway parking lot. The property is articles – and not in a good way. Allegations IN THIS ISSUE intended for independent living and easy of racism and the classification of Orinda News access to transportation, shopping and as a wealthy, elitist suburb filled media Housing Element 7

SYLVIA JORGENSEN community services, such as the library and Internet sites. The Dec. 8 school board MOFD 5

A young friend helps the Orinda Association's (OA) and community center. meeting was moved to the Orinda Library Police Blotter 5 Kate Wiley with the welcome baskets for resi- On-site amenities include a large com- Auditorium to accommodate the number of Around Town dents at Monteverde senior apartments. The OA Fitness Guide 9-10 munity room with television and a full speakers wishing to be heard on the topic and the Orinda Satellite Rotary Club put together Local Groups 13, 18, 19

the baskets and delivered them in mid-December. [See Seniors page 16] as well as television crews. Performing/Visual Arts 2 At the heart of the controversy is how Schools/Students 11, 12, 15, 17 the school district determines residency, Business Buzz 20 whether race plays a factor and what type Calendar 17

Car Time 7

of investigative techniques it employs.

ECRWSS Classified 16

Customer

Postal School board policies as well as the State 4 PERMIT# Editorial 4

CA ORINDA, of California require districts to follow Everyday Changes 18

PAID objective rules for determining residency Obituaries 6

POSTAGE

US and to investigate questions of residency Orinda Association 3 NON-PROFIT Roving Reporter 8 when brought to its attention. Something to Howl About 12 According to the district’s attorney, Har- 2 n The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 Visual Arts New Year Exhibit Features Eclectic Mix of Artwork

By ELANA O’LOSKEY during January. The public is invited to an Staff Writer artist reception on Sunday, Jan. 4 from 2 to 4:30 pm when light refreshments will ne way to start the New Year, accord- be served. The embroiderers are offering Oing to Turkish playwright Mehmet two demonstrations of their work at the Murat ildan is, “For a new year to bring reception – a great chance to learn all about you something new, make a move, like a stitching from the experts. butterfly tearing its cocoon! Make a move!” Jill Landau of Walnut Creek has been This sentiment puts one in mind of the work painting for 30 years and loves the chal- exhibited by Jill Landau, Melody Hesaraky, lenge of it. “People think it’s easy, but it is Tom Winn and members of the Embroi- not easy. It is work and I just happen to love derer’s Guild of America, Valley Quail the work, trying to get something to look Chapter. The Orinda Arts Council presents like what I’m looking at, or get the feeling their work at the Orinda Library Gallery of what I’m looking at,” says Landau. “My parents were art collectors, and I grew up CONTRIBUTED PHOTO surrounded by the works of Milton Avery, Jill Landau's oil on board entitled Sunny House will be on display at the Library Gallery during January. Janice Fish, Alice Neel and Jane Freilicher – beautiful work which is embedded in born in Tehran, Iran, and recently graduated and powdered minerals. me.” Landau will be showing more than from the University of Brighton, England. Sheila Iskin, outreach coordinator, and 25 works, all representational and impres- Hesaraky discovered a love of the geom- members of the Embroiderer’s Guild of sionist in nature. Look for Sunny House, a etry, architecture and patterns inherent in America (EGA), Valley Quail Chapter 14” x 18” oil on board painting. She hopes her Persian background while exploring (QVC), have a theme for their show: “Our people will feel some kind of kinship with different mediums – textile design, mixed Most Precious Tools.” Among the 50+ her work, the way the light is presented, or media collage, paintings, wood and metal. works exhibited, look for needlebooks, experience something they haven’t seen In Brighton, she interned with Pam Glew, scissor cases and fobs they have created before at all. a contemporary artist known for ingrain- which highlight the way they store their Melody Hesaraky of San Francisco was ing imagery onto richly textured vintage most important tools. They hope people flags and textiles. This experience helped will enjoy seeing the fruits of their labors Hesaraky realize she could use her talents including Sharon Kerst’s Cross Stitch and to pursue graduate studies in textile design Queen Stitch Etui, a 4” x 2” 4.5” hand-em- while honoring her Persian aesthetic. She broidered box containing needlebook, scis- is showing 20 works of mixed media col- sor fob, scissor case, scissors and assorted lage and ink paintings. Look for Glorious tools. At the artist reception, members are Destruction, an 8.3” x 11.7” mixed media holding a stitching demonstration and a on paper. Having lived in many differ- free “how to make a new stitch” demo. The ent cultures around the world she says, EGA is a national, not-for-profit organiza- “Art is my best friend; it doesn’t have tion dedicated to the study and preservation any age and is always there when I need of the art of embroidery; see www.ega-gpr. it.” org for more information. Many pieces of Tom Winn of San Leandro has been embroidery created today qualify as fiber working with clay for almost 12 years. art. The QVC meets at the Faith Christian “Curiosity drew me to work with clay to Fellowship Church, 860 Bancroft Road start with. After that I wanted to see how in Walnut Creek, and alternates morning far I could go with mastering shapes and and evening meetings to accommodate creating pieces that were functional or just members who are working and members esthetically pleasing,” says Winn. He will who don’t like to drive at night. For meet- be showing about 25 ceramic works includ- ing details and membership information ing basic functional pieces such as bowls in the QVC, contact Sheila Iskin at 925- as well as decorative pieces created using 680-8877. non-standard firing techniques like raku, As to the value of art in our community, pop-off glazing and pit-firing. He hopes Landau says, “Art is the life of any com- people get a sense of the variety of types munity and a reflection of the community of ceramic works that are possible and the we live in. I’m a firm believer in art in the different effects that can be created from schools, art everywhere.” clay and glazes, which are basically mud Tom Winn says, “Personally, I just enjoy the feeling of drinking a cup of coffee from a mug that I made myself and that feels good in my hands.” Visit the gallery at 26 Orinda Way dur- ing normal library hours – Mon. through Thurs., 10 am to 8 pm; Fri. and Sat., 10 am to 6 pm; and Sunday, 1 to 5 pm. All libraries are closed Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day and Jan. 19 for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Call 925-254-2184 for more information or visit http://ccclib.org. The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 n 3 Orinda Association

A Message From the OA President Volunteer Opportunities Resolve to Volunteer! ach month the Orinda Associa- Etion (OA) will feature a volunteer Bill Waterman opportunity in this space. If you have a few extra hours and would enjoy a ell, it’s 2015, so now is a good time a number of non-profits and charity or fulfilling volunteer endeavor, this is the Wto reflect on our goals for the New service organizations that welcome new place to look! Year. One of the best goals I ever set for members. These include Rotary Clubs, the And, if you are an Orinda nonprofit or myself was to get involved in the com- Orinda Woman’s Club and Orinda Juniors, service group seeking help for upcoming munity by volunteering – in my case with garden clubs, the Arts Council and the events or programs, let us know all about the Orinda Association (OA), but there are California Independent Film Festival – the you and your volunteer opportunities so many non-profit groups that offer great op- list goes on! we can feature your organization in this portunities to contribute in Orinda and the Speaking of volunteering, the Orinda spot as well as in our online Volunteer greater Lamorinda area. If you are thinking, Association will celebrate its 2014 Vol- Guide and office information. “I’d like to get involved and contribute but unteer of the Year and William Penn Mott You can contact the OA via email at just don’t know where to start,” then the Jr. Environmental Award winners at our [email protected]., by phone OA can help. dinner on Feb. 8, at the Orinda Country at 925-254-0800 or stop by the office SALLY HOGARTY We operate a Volunteer Center in three Club. This year the OA received quite a located in the plaza level of the Orinda The OA's Seniors Around Town drive program ways: (1) we post current, specific and local number of nominations – and we thank Library. Office hours are 9 am to 12 pm recently held a holiday luncheon for both vol- volunteer opportunities on the OA’s web- everyone for taking the time to suggest and 1 pm to 4 pm Monday - Friday. unteer drivers and senior riders. site under the Volunteer tab; (2) we have a worthy candidates. The 2014 Volunteer of Volunteer Guide on our website that lists the Year winner is Dick Burkhalter, one more than 50 local groups that seek help of the many dedicated members of the from volunteers; and (3) our OA staff can Orinda Rotary Club. Dick also volunteers assist with questions about volunteering as a driver for the OA’s Seniors Around in our office, by phone or in person, 30 Town ride program and is a trustee with hours a week. So if you’re thinking about the Orinda Community Foundation. Our this, now is a great time to start by check- William Penn Mott Jr. winner is Others ing out our OA website, looking over the First, a group of more than 400 Orinda Volunteer Guide and calling us with ques- Intermediate School (OIS) students in- tions. Starting this month, we are featuring volved in service projects in Orinda and a “Volunteer Opportunity of the Month” on the Bay Area. The OA congratulates the OA page. Dick and the students, parents and teach- We are all so busy, and yet many people ers of Others First at OIS. A heartfelt say they are happy they decided to con- thanks to all for their generosity and their tribute to a non-profit, despite their busy contributions! schedules. Here in Orinda we have quite Happy New Year!

The Orinda Association

The Orinda Association is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to: • Maintaining and improving the quality of life in Orinda; • Promoting awareness and discussion of is- sues that are important to the community; • Encouraging and recognizing volunteer ef- forts to enhance the beauty, character, and security of Orinda.

P.O. Box 97 26 Orinda Way (Lower Level Library) Orinda, California 94563 Phone: 254-0800 Fax: 254-8312 www.orindaassociation.org OFFICERS President Bill Waterman Vice President: Joe Garvey Secretary Alison Dew Treasurer Cindy Powell Membership Jim Luini BOARD MEMBERS Maura Aars Maryam Asgari Joe Haughin Chris Laszcz-Davis 4 n The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 Editorial Letters to the Editor Closure of Fire Station residents of that area have had to depend on our Regarding the closure of the Honey Hill fire Honey Hill Fire Station to provide emergency station, two things are undeniably true. services. If the new station is built, response First, the response time of fire trucks and times to NW Lafayette will be reduced by two paramedics will be increased to hundreds of minutes – at no cost to Lafayette residents. It’s homes in Orinda. a great deal – for them! Second, the taxpayers of Orinda and Moraga Instead, the cost will be borne by the taxpay- will be paying for a fire station located in La- ers of the MOFD who will have their response fayette. times increased by two minutes. No one has How does this make sense? studied increased risks of longer response times – Mary Del Santo in terms of loss of life and property. The MOFD Board hopes to save money on operations, but Honey Hill Station Must Stay what is the real cost? What is the value of a life Open lost while waiting too long for help to arrive? Steve Cohn, in his letter in the December What is the value of a house that burns down issue, seems to imply that, since we in north simply because the fire department couldn’t get Orinda have so few emergency calls, we do there in time? not deserve the same excellent response times While there would certainly be an improve- he enjoys. In fact, he suggests that we vote to ment in response times to NW Lafayette, these tax ourselves an additional amount to pay for times still won’t meet acceptable standards. service to north Orinda. I thought we were all Lafayette should be promoting a replacement one fire district. Why should the residents of station of its own, not moving ours from Orinda List of The Orinda News Advertisers Page Page to Lafayette! north Orinda alone be expected to pay down Arts & Entertainment Taxi Bleu 2 the unfunded liabilities on behalf of the entire I understand why Lafayette would support Moraga Art Gallery 2 Real Estate district? Besides, both MOFD director Kathleen this move. What I don’t understand is why any Automotive AG Realty Famulener and Steve’s candidate Nate Bell were resident of the MOFD would do the same. Orinda Motors 7 Alexander Gailas 3 Orinda Shell 11 Better Homes & Gardens – John Robertson quoted in the paper as saying they believed the Beauty and Fitness Lisa Shaffer 20 financial situation is turning around and that the CoreKinetics 10 Coldwell Banker district will be able to cover its debt in the future. Two Minutes Can Be A Long Time In Forma 10 Laura Abrams 13 Steve quotes several statistics regarding the Steve Cohn, in his December letter to the edi- Living Lean Exercise & Eating Program 18 Patti Camras 9 Churches Shellie Kirby 14 number of emergency calls to north Orinda. His tor, supports the plan to close the MOFD Honey Lafayette Orinda Presbyterian Church 8 Maureen Wilbur 11 numbers may be accurate, but they are totally ir- Hill Fire Station and open a new one with Con Dental Pacific Union relevant. Only response time matters! He says Fire in Lafayette. This move would increase Dr. Kristi L. Doberenz DDS 8 Virginia and Paul Ratto 6 there will only be a “minimal impact” on the response times to many parts of north Orinda Dr. Mary Smith DDS 3 Leila Schlein 7 Educational/Camp Soheila Smith Real Estate Honey Hill response area. Closing the Honey by two minutes -- so the question becomes why Old Firehouse School 9 Soheila Smith 15 Hill Fire Station in order to “share” a new station is two minutes crucial to our safety? St. Marks Preschool 19 Village Associates in Lafayette with Con Fire would result in a sig- Most of Orinda and all of Lafayette north of Financial and Insurance Services Dexter Honens II 14 nificant increase in response times. How many Highway 24 are designated “Very High Fire Breedlove Insurance Services 20 April Matthews 3 RPM Mortgage Karen Murphy 15 additional people will die because it took too Hazard Severity” zones by the State of Cali- Dianne Crosby 14 Ann Sharf 5 long for help to arrive? How many more homes fornia. This means that the area is extremely Kat Rider 6 Clark Thompson 17 will burn down? Will it increase the chances of vulnerable to fires like the Oakland Berkeley Garden/Landscaping Restaurants/Catering an Oakland Hills-type firestorm? What does he Firestorm of 1991, which grew from a small Blue Ridge Landscaping 18 Baan Thai 6 McDonnell Nursery 5 Casa Orinda 5 mean by “minimal?” If his life was on the line, grass fire to a major incident within half an hour. Tree Sculpture 14 La Mediterranee 15 would it still be a “minimal” impact? It is important to note that because of the Medical Lava Pit 16 The Committee to Save Our Honey Hill Fire OSHA “two in, two out” rule, there have to be Dr. Brian Clark 12 Loard’s Ice Cream and Candy 6 Station opposes the plan to close our station and four firefighters on scene before they can enter Medicine Shoppe 2 Siam Orchid 15 Dr. Kristin Walker 13 Village Inn Cafe 3 move it to Lafayette. We are concerned that in- a house to effectively attack a fire or search for Pet Service Zamboni’s Pizza 3 creased response times will place us all at greater possible victims. Since there are only three fire- Animal House Pet Sitting 12 Retail Stores risk. And we cannot understand why the MOFD fighters on an engine, they have to wait for the Theatre View Veterinary Clinic 12 Echo Grove 2 Board has, up to now, supported this plan. We second engine to arrive. Waiting two additional Professional Services Morrison’s Jewelers 2 Cruise Adventures Unlimited 19 Orinda Books 15 assumed their first obligation was to protect the minutes could be the difference between life and Law Office of Victoria Robinson Smith 14 Theatre Square 20 lives and property of MOFD residents, not those death, between a house burning down or not, of people who live in Lafayette. between a firestorm or not. to replace the one they closed. November’s election. Phillips, unlike the other You can read more about the proposal to close The proposal to close Station 43 and replace it For more information go to www.savehoney- members of the City Council (Worth, Glazer, the Honey Hill Station at our website: www. with a joint station in Lafayette adversely affects hillfirestation.com. Smith, and Orr) wants to keep Orinda’s semi- savehoneyhillfirestation.com. And please sign all of Lamorinda in another way. It means that – Carol Bergren rural charm, prevent overcrowded schools, and our petition so that the MOFD Board will know we will forever have one less fire station in the put a height limit on the city’s buildings. you oppose this move. area to respond to emergencies. We have had Change Has Come To Orinda The City Council team that went out of – Ellen Dale one less station since the Contra Costa Board of That egregious monopoly that has dominated existence in December 2014 did irreparable Supervisors closed the NW Lafayette station in the Orinda City Council for many years has damage to Orinda. Closing Station Only Makes Upper Happy Valley two years ago. We don’t finally come to an end. One example is the construction of the Eden Sense for Lafayette want to make this dangerous situation perma- For the last four years, the like-minded forces Housing/Monteverde project at 2 Irwin Way I totally understand why the City of Lafayette nent. If the MOFD goes ahead with the plan to of Amy Worth, Steve Glazer, Victoria Smith, (across the street from the Orinda Way firehouse would support the plan to close Orinda’s Honey close its Honey Hill Station, MOFD constituents Dean Orr, and Sue Severson had unbridled and the local branch of Citibank). This Irwin Hill Fire Station and build a new fire station on will be paying the same amount of tax money control over the entire City Council. Severson Way monstrosity violates Orinda’s 35-foot El Nido Ranch Road at Lorinda Lane in Lafay- for significantly reduced service. The MOFD opted not to run in 2014. height limit and blocks views of nearby hills. ette. The county closed their station in NW La- should keep Station 43 right where it is, and Con A new candidate, Eve Phillips, not only Another example is the Housing Element, fayette more than two years ago. Since then, the Fire should build a station in northwest Lafayette won a seat on the council but came in first in [See Letters page 16]

The Orinda News prints 9,000 copies and is published 12 times a Opinions of The Orinda News are expressed on the year by The Orinda Association. The office is located at 26 Orinda The Orinda News editorial page. Views of writers and letters to the editor are Way (lower level of the Library). All rights reserved. The publication is A Publication of their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The sent out by direct mail (Permit #4, Orinda Post Office) and distributed The Orinda Association Orinda Association or of The Orinda News. Advertisements to key locations throughout the city. Mailing Address appearing in The Orinda News are not to be construed as Editor...... Sally Hogarty P.O. Box 97 Assistant Editor...... David Dierks Orinda, California 94563 endorsements by The Orinda Association or The Orinda News. Copy Editor...... Maggie Sharpe Telephone: 925 254-0800 Letters to the Editor are printed on a space-available Advertising Representatives...... Jill Gelster, Elana O’Loskey Fax: 925 254-8312 basis and should be no longer than 400 words. They must in- Editorial Committee...... Jill Gelster, Sally Hogarty, clude the writer’s first and last name, signature and telephone www.orindanews.org Charlie Jarrett, Jim Luini, Elana O’Loskey, number. Mark Roberts, Bill Waterman, Kate Wiley Send letters to: Editor, The Orinda News, P.O. Box Staff Writers...... Jennifer Conroy, Bobbie Dodson, Valerie Hotz, 97, Orinda, CA 94563, fax them to 254-8312, or email Jeanette Irving, Charlie Jarrett, Kathryn G. McCarty, to [email protected]. Letters to Editor for Fran Endicott Miller, Elana O’Loskey, Mark Roberts, John Vanek, Bill Waterman, Bonnie Waters the February issue are due January 8, 2015. Contributing Writers ����������������Elizabeth Bennette, Konnie Ghu, Pascale Siu Graphics...... Aspen Consulting: Jill Gelster & David Dierks Printing...... Folger Graphics For display advertising rates, call Jill Gelster at 925-528- 9225 or email to [email protected]. The deadline for the February issue is January 8, 2015. The OA is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 n 5 MOFD / Police / Drugs Fire Captain Details High Level of Service POLICE BLOTTER November 2014 By DAVID DIERKS 257 service calls including two vegeta- Assistant Editor tion fires, 136 emergency medical service (EMS) calls, 12 vehicle accidents and 107 aptain-Paramedic Anthony Perry talk- other calls. “I often teach new firefighters Burglary, Auto: 4 incidents: Nation’s Arrests Ced about unit responses in October at to approach every person’s issue as an Giant Hamburgers, Wagner Ranch DUI Misdemeanor Arrest: 1 arrest: the Nov. 19 board meeting of the Moraga- emergency, whether it is our definition of an Elementary, Moraga Way and Wilder/ Camino Pablo/Miner Rd. Orinda Fire District (MOFD). “Moraga- emergency, a life-threatening emergency, Hwy 24. Motorist Assist Arrest: 1 arrest: St. Orinda Fire is something special. It offers a or not,” said Perry. “It could be something Burglary, Commercial: 1 incident: Stephens/El Nido Ranch Rd. very high level of service because we have simple like a flooding condition or a smoke Moraga Way. Public Nuisance Arrest: 1 arrest: the resources to provide that high level of detector that is out. To them that’s a prob- Burglary, Residential: 3 incidents: Davis Rd. service,” said Perry. “We are committed to lem and if we can’t fix it, we like to hand Oakwood Rd. and Arbor Dr. (2). Shoplift Arrest: 2 arrests: Moraga providing the highest level of emergency deliver them to a person who can.” Checks – Non-Sufficient Funds: 1 Way and Safeway. and public service in response to the needs Perry described three incidents to illus- incident: Orinda Way. Stolen Vehicle Recovery: 1 incident: of our community.” trate his point, one a service call and two Drunk in Public: 2 incidents: Rite St. Stephens/El Nido Ranch Rd. During October, MOFD responded to medical emergencies. Aid and Brookwood Rd. Suspicious Vehicle Arrest: 1 arrest: “The service call was a flooding condi- Grand Theft: 1 incident: Moraga Safeway. tion,” he said. “It’s pretty common, espe- Way. Traffic Stop Arrest: 7 arrests: Fish In Rainy Weather, cially when it starts to rain, and we respond Identity Theft: 4 incidents: Kite Hill Ranch Rd./Old Tunnel Rd., Oak Hill to flooding conditions. It could simply be a Terr., Counter Report at Orinda PD, Rd./Hwy 24, Camino Pablo/Camino Law Requires Head- clogged gutter or storm drain.” In this case, Davis Rd. and Estates Dr. Sobrante (2), Davis Rd./Bates Blvd., lights Turned On a resident walked into a fire station and Petty Theft: 6 incidents: Orchard Rd., Bryant Way and Shell Station. reported a broken water pipe in her front Camino Sobrante, Arbolado Ct., Honey Warrant Service Arrest: 1 arrest: f you’re driving in the rain with your yard with the water threatening to flow into Hill Rd., Wanda Ln. and Paintbrush Ln. Camino Pablo/Ardilla Rd. Iwindshield wipers on but your head- her house. Petty Theft from Vehicle: 1 incident: lights off, are you breaking the law? Firefighters discovered that the home- Brookwood Rd. Orinda BART Station Generally speaking, the answer is “yes.” owner’s sprinkler valve was broken. Due to Threats: 1 incident: undisclosed No incidents. There are still some Orinda residents the broken valve, they could not shut down location. who appear to be unaware of the “wip- the sprinkler and had to shut off the main Vandalism: 2 incidents: Martha Rd. ers on/headlights on” law that has been water supply. “That person now has no and Ardilla Rd. on the books for nearly 10 years. The water. If they have a gas water heater, they Vehicle Theft: 3 incidents: Bates law requires that a vehicle’s headlights might have to turn off the water heater and Blvd., Hilldale Ct. and Bates Blvd./ – Compiled by Jeanette Irving, be turned on whenever its wipers are in they might not be comfortable relighting Davis Rd. Orinda Police Department consistent operation, day or night. the pilot light. A simple problem turns into Technically, there are two exceptions. a multi-hour ordeal for that family.” The One is if the wipers are on intermittently firefighters were able to dig up the valve during light rain. The other is if a vehicle and replace it and the sprinkler was back in is equipped with daytime running lights service within a matter of minutes. “Obvi- (DRLs) that illuminate the headlights ously, they were on radio and available for only at reduced brightness to make the another call at any time. Those kinds of vehicle more visible to oncoming traffic. things mean a lot to people, and it means My suggestion is to turn on headlights a lot to us.” The homeowner subsequently (low beam) whenever you need to turn made a donation of $500 to the Rescue One on your wipers, regardless of the in- Foundation that helps support the district’s tensity of the rain and whether or not paramedic programs. your vehicle has DRLs. This is because The other two calls illustrate, “differ- rainfall intensity can change quickly ent perspectives on a medical call. There and DRLs don’t turn on taillights. Think are two main parameters when we run a about when you’re driving on Highway medical call and the patient’s needs dictate 24 during periods of heavy rain, even which route we choose. It could require in the middle of the day. Rooster tails rapid transfer to the hospital or rapid [on- of water thrown at your vehicle from site] intervention,” said Perry. those in front can make it very difficult The first call involved a cyclist on a rural to see clearly. So please – don’t be a roadway. “The initial response was the fire “dim bulb.” When it’s raining: Wipers engine with three personnel on the scene, a on – headlights on! We’ll all drive more very narrow road, a sharp turn and traffic safely when we can see each other more whizzing by,” said Perry. When the engine clearly. arrived, they found a man writhing on the – Mark Roberts, Chair of the Orinda ground. “The patient had an obvious head Traffic Safety Advisory Committee injury. There was a bicycle helmet that [See MOFD page 16] 6 n The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 Obituaries He Was the Love of My Life – Remembering Barclay Simpson

By KATHRYN G. MCCARTY value of hard work. While enrolled at U.C. there, but beamed when reflecting that her Staff Writer Berkeley, he was twice forced to drop out children, like their parents, love art. When of school. First, when WWII began and he they were young, she and her husband he miracle of my life.” That’s how was chosen to serve in the elite U.S. Naval “planted the seed.” “TSharon Simpson describes her Air Corps, the Flying Golden Bears, and “The arts are a critical part of civil husband Barclay Simpson. Over a cup of a second time when his father became ill society and education,” said Barc in an coffee on a recent December afternoon, her and needed his help in the family business. interview with the U.C. Berkeley News eyes light up as she spoke of the love of her Over several decades Barc, (he insisted I Center. He added that the new building life. The couple had been together 41 years, call him that, and not “Mr. Simpson”) led would “ensure that U.C. Berkeley and the raised seven children and welcomed six the family company as it evolved into a City of Berkeley have a world-class visual grandchildren and four great-grandchildren world leader in structural connectors. He CONTRIBUTED PHOTO arts center befitting these communities for to their family, when Barclay passed away smiled when I asked him what a connec- Barclay and Sharon Simpson with daughter Julie at least the next century.” on Nov. 8, at the age of 93. tor was. Simpson Erwin. Barclay, Sharon said, “understood the I initially met the Simpsons in March Our interview took place in a dining U.C. Berkley Art Museum. When I told importance of giving back. Giving people of 2013, when I went to their home for a room that was covered, floor to ceiling, in him I’d never had the opportunity to visit a chance was something that Barc firmly short interview. That short interview lasted magnificent works of art – created by both that museum, he assured me I was going believed in.” almost three hours. During our meeting recognizable masters as well as young art- to enjoy it. The couple spent decades contribut- regarding Barc’s receiving the Berkeley ists. The Simpsons’ lives were intertwined When Sharon and I spoke about my ing to many causes in the arts, education Medal, the University of California’s with the arts. Their first date was at an art earlier interview with Barc, she explained and sports. Their namesakes include: the highest honor, he spoke often of his wife. festival. After they married, they owned a that Barc was good at making suggestions. Sharon Simpson Center at Cal Shake- Without hesitation Barc said, “The best fine art gallery in Lafayette for 13 years. People were simply “caught up in Barc’s speare Theater; the Simpson Center for decision of my life was marrying Sharon.” Barc was also a trustee of the California enthusiasm.” I know I was. At his sug- Student-Athlete High Performance at U.C. A child of the Depression, Barc knew the College of the Arts and chairman of the gestion, I visited the museum and plan on Berkeley; and the Sharon Hanley Simpson attending the new Berkeley Art Museum Library and Barclay Simpson Sculpture and Pacific Film Archive that is slated to Studio in Oakland at the California College open next year. Sharon’s eyes grew wistful of the Arts. as it dawned on her that Barc would not be [See Simpson page 16] Yolanda Eldred Enjoyed Her Life n June 7, longtime Orinda resident OYolanda N. Eldred passed away peacefully from the world she loved so much into the arms of her Savior. Yolanda died at home surrounded by her children and grandchildren, listening to her favorite opera arias. Yolanda was born Jan. 6, 1920 in Savan- nah, New York. After graduating from high school at 16, she moved to New York City to study acting at New York University. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Yolanda Eldred. She also worked with stage productions in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She subse- Theatre; Yolanda continued her attendance quently worked as a medical secretary at at the Bruns Amphitheater up until her final the Long Island School of Medicine where year. She revived her acting career with she met W. James Eldred. They married and several commercials and a role in the local moved to San Francisco, where Jim did his television series, Trauma, when she was residency en route to becoming a highly in her late 80s. Actively engaged with all respected thoracic surgeon in Contra Costa who knew and loved her, she truly enjoyed County. In 1955, Jim and Yolanda moved her life. to Orinda, where they and their eventual Yolanda is survived by her children brood of six little swimmers became the Mary Lee Loughman, Dina Fiatarone, Ju- quintessential Orinda Park Pool family. liet Montagnon, Jim Eldred and Roxanne Yolanda is fondly remembered for her Wieber; by her grandchildren Maria, Carlo, passion for cooking for family and friends Jimmy, Annalisa and Gianni Fiatarone; Tra- gathered boisterously around the dining vis and Denver Schaffarzick; Carmen and room table. Both Jim and Yolanda enjoyed Michael Montagnon; and Brenna and Ryan raising champion herding dogs Bouviers Wieber; and by her great-grandchildren des Flandres. They were both passionate Damian, Tanner and Caleb. lovers of the arts, especially opera. For Yolanda is predeceased by her son many years, Jim and Yolanda were season Charles in 1969 and her husband, Col. W. ticket holders at the California Shakespeare James Eldred MD, F.A.C.S., in 2006. The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 n 7 Housing / Cars Fifth Cycle Housing Element Ready for HCD Car Time Making Time For Your Vehicle By FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER

Staff Writer by John Vanek standing room only crowd filled the A Orinda Library auditorium for the 10th e rely on our vehicles every day to looked at regularly. and final public comment session regarding Wget us through our lives. We carry There is a time commitment that must the city’s fourth draft of the proposed 5th precious cargo to school, sports and scouts. be dedicated to your car. Make a plan to be Cycle Housing Element plan. The special When your daily driver goes down it throws without your car for a day or so when you meeting, held in early December by the a wrench in the works. Your time is so valu- bring it in for service. An oil change will Orinda City Council, drew supporters, able that you cannot afford to be without take less time if that is all that is needed. detractors and those seeking to fully under- your wheels. Sometimes there is just no There is a recent trend where car owners stand the housing element process. time to deal with a broken car. give a very short time frame to have their The three and a half hour special meeting That is why I preach preventative main- cars serviced. We need time to take care concluded with a City Council consensus tenance. I have seen several vehicles within of your car. It also helps to have a good that all three of the proposed sites be pre- the last week that had failures that could understanding of what kind of service will sented to the Department of Housing and have been avoided. These are emergency be done. Have this conversation with your Community Development (HCD) with situations like grinding brakes and dead shop before you bring in the car. Speaking wording that the city is considering the batteries that cause chaos and disruption of time, be sure to give yourself enough three alternatives and would like HCD’s in our lives. There is also a disruption to time to check in your vehicle. This is for affirmation that the sites meet the city’s your car care professional. Your emergency the benefit of your car as well as your car obligations under state law. The state has FRAN ENDICOTT MILLER turns into their emergency. A car is towed care provider. 60 days to comment, which will ideally Alex Ryan, 9, and his sister Annabelle, 7, were in suddenly and you need it back right Time is a hot commodity these days allow the city to make its final selection two of many Lamorinda Martial Arts Studio stu- away. These disruptions can be avoided and nobody can afford to lose it. Planning dents to speak out about the possible re-zoning by the deadline extension of April, 2015. of the studio's location at 1 Orinda Way. with regular check-ups. Your vehicle should to make time for your car will save time City Attorney Osa Wolff stated that due get checked out at least once a year. Not a and avoid chaos in the future. Neglect- to the tight time frame, the presentation typically have long waits when trying to quickie oil change but a total inspection ing your car or neglecting to plan for of all three sites is prudent, and that while merge into Moraga Way traffic and that including an under-hood and under-car your car will cost you time in the long the deadline would be met, the city is not added housing would only increase the inspection. The belts, battery, brakes, tires run. I am always available for automotive bound to the three as described and can traffic problem. and other wear-and-tear items must be consultation. make substitutions among the various areas. Alvin Donner, a member of the Santa Councilmembers conceded that there Maria Church community, says the council are issues with each of the proposed sites, is moving in the right direction but ex- the number two alternative (The Orinda pressed his concern over alternative one, Community Church at 10 Irwin Way, St. the Santa Maria Church site at 40 Santa Mark’s Church at 451 Moraga Way, and St. Maria Way. “This site has poor access and John Orthodox Church at 501 Moraga Way) a steep driveway,” he said. “The elevation being most problematic due to its distance change, equivalent to a 12-story building, from public transportation. Resident Chet needs to be taken into account.” Martine expressed his concern over this The most prolific protest at the meeting particular location, citing the potential for was against alternative three, The Orinda increased traffic woes. He said that he and Community Church/Rite Aid/1 Orinda Way his Orchard and Overhill Road neighbors [See housing page 14] 8 n The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 Roving Reporter

Roving Reporter Q: What would make Orinda a more positive place to live? Charlie Jarrett

great idea as we certainly think of our three communities as one,” said Haet. Terri Moss Bookbinder and her friend Jeanine Hunt were drinking coffee and chatting about a controversy over the Orinda School Board’s hiring of a private investigator to help the school board deter- mine appropriate home residency of chil- dren attending local schools. Bookbinder CHARLIE JARRETT said she would like to have an event in Lucia Bennhoff, Maureen Rosati-Wee and Jackie Smith. Orinda that shows how people inside and CHARLIE JARRETT outside of Orinda promote diversity. “I was research and read The Orinda News to find Greg and Lucia Haet. very distressed at the way Orinda has been out about upcoming events. One problem rinda residents Greg and Lucia Haet portrayed as a city of the one percent as she has encountered in Orinda is finding Osaid they love Theatre Square. “I think elitist white people who want to keep other childcare that allows her to pick up her we could draw an enormous number of pe- people out,” said Bookbinder. “I think we children after 5 pm. She currently uses the destrians to the downtown area to dine and are a community that promotes diversity, childcare services where she works, as it is shop if they could experience what a great I just don’t think that is the opinion other impossible to get home from work by 5 pm. area it would be to shop in, if it were free of people have of us. I think we need one big She would like to gather information and cars,” said Greg Haet. “I think a long-term social mixer. I am not an event planner, references from other mothers regarding solution for Orinda would be to close the but I think we need something to facilitate this problem. “It would be valuable if there eastbound Highway 24 entrance at Bryant connecting people on a deeper level in this were a community event where childcare Way.” The couple thinks a Theatre Square/ community. Something other than a wine- providers could meet one-on-one with Moraga Way street fair would be great to and-dine event.” parents,” said Kaplan. promote pedestrian traffic, local businesses Lucia Bennhoff, Maureen Rosati-Wee and community arts and crafts. They also and Jackie Smith said they would like a would like a joint Lamorinda community year-long event calendar that is broader calendar that lists activities that organiza- in scope than such sources as The Orinda tions have throughout the year. “I think that CHARLIE JARRETT News, local club web pages and the Orinda a broad joint community calendar is really a Jeanine Hunt (L) and Terri Moss Bookbinder. Association website. “There is a need for a combined three-community Lamorinda cal- endar,” said Smith. In addition, the friends thought that such a calendar could be set up to generate emails about specific events. They also suggested a community event every year, perhaps in a local park, where communities and clubs could disseminate information about their activities. Smith also mentioned the Nextdoor web page. “Those who use it like it, but not many people are enrolled and a broader base of community event alerts is needed,” she said. Jenny Kaplan said that when she and her husband decided to move to Orinda, CHARLIE JARRETT Jenny Kaplan and baby Kaplan. primarily for the schools, they did a lot of

International Film Showcase Returns The Italian Film Noir feature Human Capital marks the International Film Festi- val's return after its December hiatus. The film has won 38 international awards and is Italy's submission for Best Foreign Language Film at the 87th Academy Awards. Human Capital tells of two prominent families enmeshed with the hit and run injury of a young waiter. The film runs Jan. 30 - Feb. 5 at the Orinda Theatre. Go to www.Lamorindatheatres. com after Jan. 25 for show times. The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 n 9 Fitness Guide 2015 Orinda Fitness Guide

By ELANA O’LOSKEY http://breathemovebewell.com Staff Writer Co-owners Bridget McCarthy and Gaby Diskin are certified instructors who offer hat defines fitness for you and your quality Pilates instruction. Group classes Wfamily? One common definition is Mon. - Sat., drop-ins OK, private lessons “the condition of being physically fit and available. Onsite massage and nutrition healthy.” Experts agree that regular exercise workshops. builds muscles, burns fat, lowers choles- terol, eases stress and anxiety and leads to CoreKinetics Pilates Studio restful sleep. What’s not to like? January 50 Vashell Way, #120 is the cliché month to begin, continue or 925-709-3279 change up your exercise routine: what’s www.corekinetics.com working, what’s not, what goals fit for right A fitness and post rehabilitation program now (pun intended)? Myrna Witt, of the based on the method designed by Joseph Orinda Arts Council, suggests reading The Pilates and Eve Gentry, enhanced and Power of Habit by C. Duhigg (available at presented by Carolyn Mueller. Your first CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Three dedicated individuals at fitness in Orinda. Orinda Books), as a way to migrate from session is a fitness analysis which includes Breath Move Be Well where you are to a new place. We hope Posture, Alignment and Gait Analysis eral gym area, state of the art cardio and yoga. Designed to help people integrate a our guide assists you in exploring how tailored to your needs so fitness becomes strength training equipment, large bright healthy routine ensuring lifelong fitness and to take exercise beyond routine so that it faster and more efficient. You’ll also receive class studio and new functional training health. New program focusing on high per- truly serves the physical well-being of you a set of movements to take with you to studio. Try any class or first visit for free; formance mental skills training to remove and your family. If you know of a fitness enhance your study and goals. during January take any three classes for the roadblocks to your highest goals. resource in Orinda we’ve missed, email us free. at [email protected]. In Forma Integral Fitness Meadow Swim & Tennis Club 23A Orinda Way, Suite 6 Lamorinda Martial Arts Studio 20 Heather Lane All-In-Fitness 925-254-6877 1 Orinda Way, Suite 6 925-254-3861 1 Orinda Way, Suite 2 http://informaorinda.com 925-639-4096 www.gomeadow.com 925-317-2207 In Forma is a full-service fitness center www.tkdlmas.com/ Four tennis courts (two are lighted), http://all-in-fitness.com which offers a wide range of fitness and Nationally ranked instructors teach all many clinics, private classes, interclub Art of Strength training methods, equip- cardio classes, personal training, yoga, Pi- levels of Tae Kwon Do classes from 4 matches for both adult and junior classes. ment and programs proven to improve lates reformer, TRX training, Parkinson™s year olds to adults. Large, bright and airy Women’s league participation includes Bay strength and endurance for all age and exercise therapy group, and Barre classes. studio with bathrooms for girls and boys. Area Ladies League, Flex Leagues, Contra fitness levels. Widely used by NFL, NBA, Newly remodeled facility includes a gen- Free parking in shared lot. Highly recom- Costa Spring League and more. Gentlemen MLB and NHL teams throughout the coun- mended by local reviewers. Open seven participate in recreational weekend play try, they are your choice for sport specific days, 8 am – 9 pm, ample parking. Check and UTSA and Flex Leagues at all levels. training in Lamorinda. online schedule for details. State-of-the-art heated infinity pool with six lanes for lap swimming and a shallow area Body Strong Pilates Living Lean by Sheena for wading and play (April through Octo- 82 Sleepy Hollow Lane 2 Theatre Square, Suite 140 ber). Learn-to-swim program, competitive Orinda CA 94563 925-360-7051 swim team and masters swimming. 925-451-1117 www.livingleanprogram.com http://bodystrongpilates.com A comprehensive nutrition and exer- Moraga Valley Swim and Tennis Club Class is offered with modifications and cise program designed for fat loss, muscle 15 Risa Court challenges to accommodate your level of gain and improved long term health and 925-376-4110 fitness. Meets Thursdays from 9-10 am fitness. Program includes a customized www.moragavalleypool.org in downtown Orinda location with ample nutrition plan, weekly measurements and Private club; inquire regarding member- parking. Private instruction available. consultation, personal training (core fo- ship. Member of the Orinda Moraga Pool Instructor Colleen Hummer Carter is a cused). Small group classes include spin, Assoc., U.S. Aquatics Council and U.S. Certified Pilates Instructor and a Certified TRX, abs, circuit training, boxing and [See fitness page 10] Personal Trainer with the National Acad- emy of Sports Medicine.

Breathe Move Be Well

1 Northwood Drive Jeff Bartee Orinda CA 94563 Living Lean's Sheena Lakhotia (R) helps a client 510-290-3428 get into shape at her Theatre Square studio. 10 n The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 Fitness Guide Salsa Dance Lessons With Tomaj t Fitness from page 9 Orinda Community Center 28 Orinda Way Tennis Assoc. Pool is open April through 925-254-2445 October and has six lanes, a diving board www.salsawithtomaj.com area and sizeable shallow play area; also No partner required and no experience a baby pool. Tennis is open all year, four necessary for salsa dancing lessons on courts, upper courts refurbished with Mondays, Beginners 7-8 pm, Intermedi- Har-Tru crushed stone. Observation deck ate/Advanced 8-9:30 pm. Open Dancing overlooking pool and tennis areas. Many before and after each class - starts at 6:45 Olympians trained here including: Heather pm. Drop-in rate $15 per person. Series Petri, Water Polo 2012, London; and Matt classes available. Biondi, 1992 Barcelona. Family oriented club with many activities year-round. Sleepy Hollow Swim and Tennis Club 1 Sunnyside Lane Orinda Country Club Tennis & Fitness 925-254-1126 315 Camino Sobrante www.sleepyhollowlegends.net 925-254-4313 Private recreational facility; inquire www.orindacc.org regarding membership. Family oriented Private club; inquire regarding member- CONTRIBUTED PHOTO facility offering excellent swim, tennis and ship. The Fitness Center overlooks beautiful A master instructor from Lamorinda Martial Arts Studio prepares students for a Tae Kwon Do class social programs for members. Recently warm-up drill. Lake Cascade and offers members cardio revitalized Olympic class rim-flow gutter equipment, weight machines, dumbbells, age which affords members access to tennis also info about parks and trails. Adult system pool – the gutters reduce turbulence and a stretching area. The new Fitness Stu- and swim programming, and participation sports leagues begin in spring and sum- – with eight lanes; a racer’s dream. New dio offers group exercise classes including in social activities. mer, info online. Dance and Fitness classes separate children’s activity pool. Eleven cycle, TRX, yoga, and muscle conditioning. offered year-round at the Orinda Parks & tennis courts with full time USPTA certified Inquire about the Social Membership Pack- Orinda Fitness Recreation Department including: ballet, tennis instructor. 15 Altarinda Road Polynesian dance, flamenco, line dancing, 925-528-9425 ballroom dance, yoga, dancercise, boot Yoga With Jeanne www.orindafitness.com camp, Pilates, Nia, Tai Chi Ch’uan/Qigong, 72 Scenic Drive Personal training onsite or in your home. meditation and Zumba. 925-254-0193 Group training and individually tailored www.yogawithjeanne.com workout routines with a mixture of car- Orindawoods Tennis Club Jeanne Dowell teaches public classes dio, core stability, balance and resistance 650 Orinda Woods Drive at the Orinda and Moraga Communi- training. Fitness assessment to track your 925-254-1065 ty Centers. You can begin a class at progression. Small spin classes (first class www.orindawoodstennis.com any time, first class is complimentary. free) and circuit training. Athletic training Private membership club; inquire regard- She is available for private sessions for with Miramonte coaches and/or ex-athletes ing membership. Seven championship individuals or small groups, in your for young athletes. courts, pro shop, locker room, sauna and home or hers. Try her meditation class as pool. well. Orinda Parks and Recreation Depart- ment Orinda Community Center 28 Orinda Way 40+ Norcal Tennis Champs Place CONTRIBUTED PHOTO 925-254-2445 Teachers Tomaj Trenda (R) and Shahla Fisher http://www.cityoforinda.org Third at Nationals can’t stop dancing at the Orinda Community Cen- ter where they teach salsa classes. Seasonal activity guide available online,

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO (L-R) 1st row: Kristin Rosenbaum, Hilary Leutenecker, Stephanie Yee, Darlet Lin, Kay Sander, Laura Kim; 2nd row: Andrea O'Brien, Ellie Kann, Janet Absher, Robin Rudolph, Marcy Sharafian, Pascale Siu, Jessie Thomas, Jennifer Glass. By PASCALE SIU the team had three match points in a third Contributing Writer set tiebreaker to advance to the finals, but ultimately lost to Oregon 3 matches to amorinda women from local tennis 2. Playing New England for third place, Lclubs competed in the USTA 40+ Andrea O’Brien, Jessie Thomas, Darlet league this season, emerging as Northern Lin and Stephanie Yee pulled out a final California Sectionals Champion against a team victory. field of 171 teams and winning a spot in the “It was so much fun. Everyone contrib- 2014 National Championships held Nov. uted to the team’s success,” said co-captain 7-9 at Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort in Stephanie Yee. “This fantastic group of Rancho Mirage, California. ladies (and great friends) trained so hard,” During the first two days at Nationals, said Yee. “It was super fun to compete at the team won a round robin featuring teams Nationals together and to watch the play- from Texas, Florida and Middle States to ers’ hard work pay off. It was a great team make it to the final four. In the semi-finals, effort.” The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 n 11 Students Oakland City Council Lauds Glorietta Student for Work with Homeless

By KATHRYN G. McCARTY used the money he raised to purchase and to think about helping them.” She said the Staff Writer deliver them to the homeless, with the hope family is proud of her son and that the idea that he would “at least help some people.” to give sleeping bags to the homeless was wish that someday there will be no According to Mesfin’s mother Selam Le- “all him.” “Ihomeless people in the world,” said gesse, the sleeping bags were roughly $30 Oakland City Council members also Natthan Mesfin, a young man on a mis- each and were “of very good quality and praised Mesfin’s work. “I am so inspired by sion. The 10-year-old Glorietta Elementary reasonably priced.” the fact that you conceived an idea, and you School student was commended by the A few months later Mesfin and his fam- did it. And you did it in the service of oth- Oakland City Council for his outreach ily loaded up the bags and started their ers,” said Councilmember Lynette Gibson efforts to the homeless at its Nov. 18 meet- first deliveries in Oakland and Berkeley McElhaney. She praised the boy for being ing, when they presented Mesfin with a before heading to San Francisco. When strong enough to follow his convictions. proclamation. they approached a man in a wheelchair, “That’s a powerful example for us all.” Mesfin’s interest in helping the homeless Mesfin asked him if he knew how to open Councilmember Rebecca Kaplan thanked originated several years ago when he visited CONTRIBUTED PHOTO the bag. “He said ‘yes, of course, I was in Mesfin for positively impacting people’s Ethiopia, where he saw many poverty- Natthan Mesfin receives a commendation for the Navy.’” The veteran asked the group to lives. “You are really helping people in a stricken, homeless people. Twice he gave his work with the homeless from the Oakland go to Glide Memorial Church, where they very direct way, and it’s really beautiful,” money to a young boy he encountered on City Council. continued to distribute the sleeping bags. said Kaplan. the streets. Other homeless kids also asked reports of people dying on the streets in “I came home happy because I gave out all Mesfin plans to continue his work and for help. Mesfin said he couldn’t get the the Bay Area because of the cold, so he the sleeping bags,” said Mesfin. is raising funds to buy and distribute more vision of homeless people out of his mind. devised a plan. Mesfin said he “made my “He always has a very soft heart when it sleeping bags. Legesse says her son also “I cannot forget about it,” he said. whole entire family promise to give me comes to homeless people,” said his mother. hopes to interest the community “to help Last year at the family Christmas table, money and I raised a lot of money.” He “He never passes someone asking for help others in their own ways.” For more in- Mesfin said he “thought about the home- then shopped for quality sleeping bags that on the street without asking us to give them formation or to help out, email Legesse at less people.” He was concerned about news could withstand very cold temperatures and something. So it was very natural for him [email protected]. Orinda Juniorettes Spirit of Giving

By KONNIE GHU & with this project,” said Konnie Guo, vice ELIZABETH BENNETTE president of the Orinda Juniorettes. Contributing Writers The Juniorettes’ most recent project was Operation Christmas Child, which t’s hard to imagine a group of teen- provides children in underprivileged areas Iage girls sitting down to make quilts with school supplies, toys and clothing. The on a Saturday morning, but the Orinda program has gained thousands of supporters Juniorettes have done just that. They also since it started in 1993. For the past three donated a goat through Heifer International, years, the Juniorettes have made Operation supported girls’ education through the Christmas Child their November project. Malala Fund and knit hats for premature Each girl purchased a few items such as babies. crayons, markers, stuffed animals or hair The Orinda Juniorettes of California clips. They packaged the gifts in shoeboxes, are a group of high school girls who take then wrapped and decorated the boxes with part in community service projects, some ribbons and stickers. After a day of packag- COLLEEN MCCULLOUGH (L-R) top row: Sondra Abruzzo, Leila Minowada, Colleen McCullough; bottom row: Sarah Rockwood, conventional and some unique. Started ing, one club member reflected, “Not only Konnie Guo, Madeleine Becker, Lara Sanli. in 2010, the Juniorettes are a division of is it so much fun to embrace the holiday the Orinda Junior Women’s Club and the spirit with my friends, but Operation national General Federation of Women’s Christmas Child is such a worthy cause,” Clubs. They plan monthly projects in says Madeleine Becker. “Taking part in it which they focus on a specific charity. In allows us to make a difference and give September, the Juniorettes made 16 quilts, back during the holiday season.” which they donated to children in need, Activities like these inspire the Junio- specifically the homeless and those suffer- rettes to continue their charity-related ing from HIV or AIDS or who were born activities year round. Last month, they addicted to drugs. With quilt kits provided assisted at Saint Anthony’s soup kitchen in by Children’s Quilts/East Bay Heritage San Francisco, held a bake sale and began Quilters, the Juniorettes laid out patterns, preparations for a school-wide textbook ironed and sewed the quilts together. More drive in the spring. experienced sewers taught other members Juniorettes welcome new members. In- how to use a sewing machine. “It’s so great terested high school girls in the Lamorinda how we were able to have fun, learn how to area are invited to email the Juniorettes at sew quilts, and give back to the community [email protected]. 12 n The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 Local Groups / Animals

Garden Club and Scouts Made Something to Howl About... Orinda Look Merry for the Holidays Animal Tales ANOTHER YEAR By BOBBIE DODSON Staff Writer

rinda certainly had the Christmas spirit Jennifer Conroy Othis December thanks to the Orinda Garden Club and Boy Scout Troop 237. Ten scouts and four dads from the troop nother year has flown by and all hopes themselves they are a little too old to climb joined with Garden Club members to hang Aare that it has been a wonderful year those drapes all the way to the ceiling and wreaths all around town. The scouts were for you and your companion animals. The then jump to the floor. especially good on the ladders. passage of time is both a blessing and a The absolute key to determining how Mark Patten, troop leader says, “We’ve curse for those of us who share our lives your animal is aging is by having a close been helping hang wreaths for several years with animals. We enjoy and cherish the relationship with your veterinarian who and always a good time is had by all. After time with them and, yet, we cannot ignore has been monitoring your animal’s health gathering at the Bank of America parking the fact that the majority of companion at the very least through annual check animals have shorter life spans than we ups. As the animal ages and still remains "This is a lovely way for adults humans. The benefit for our animals is that in good health, I recommend visits to the and youth to work together we can be there for them in their time of veterinarian at least twice a year so that any to express love and joy be- aging and, with good nutrition and health changes can be detected. This is especially care so readily available, there is no reason important in the case of cancer or other yond themselves,” said Andy why our companions cannot enjoy the full diseases that may not fully impact your Amstutz, whose wife Carole extent of their life spans. animal until it is too late. Every cat or dog BOBBIE DODSON Each species, of course, ages differently, should be accustomed to having you physi- is a Garden Club member. (L-R) Carter Fife, Sam Sernett, Troop 237 Senior Patrol Leader and Andrew Patten (on ladder) with different concerns and supports. For cally check its body frequently. This can helped hang wreaths in early December. cats and dogs there is a ready body of be part of the regular grooming routine. It lot, we got the job done quickly, especially information available through your own is important to see if there are any unusual since all were well fueled by the donuts and Boy Scout Sam Sernett enjoyed hanging veterinarian, through the Internet, and lumps or growths; if fur is disappearing hot chocolate provided by the garden club.” the wreaths as well. “I enjoy working along- through the experience of others to help from a particular area; if eyes are clouding; Garden club member, Carole Amstutz, side my fellow scouts while beautifying your animal age with relative ease. or if the animal flinches when touched in who with her husband, Andy, also helped the community I live in. The organization Perhaps the trickiest part of aging is that certain areas. Those are just a few of the with the wreath hanging, adds, “The club represents selfless service and brother- it creeps up on us. One day we are agile and signposts requiring prompt veterinary at- bought the wreaths from the scouts and then hood. I try to live up to these standards pain free; suddenly, the next day we move tention. Of course, if your cat or dog is added bows and pine cones. This is a lovely and fulfill them in my everyday life, and more slowly and the aches and pains sur- acting abnormally, a visit to the veterinarian way for adults and youth to work together the wreaths gave our town that extra little face. The same is true for our cats and dogs. is definitely called for. to express love and joy beyond themselves.” holiday sparkle.” Jumping, running, climbing, tumbling are Discuss with your veterinarian topics all part of their early activities and they may such as a change of diet, the addition of continue with those activities into their se- vitamins or supplements such as glucos- nior years. Dogs, especially, want so much amine, various therapies including hydro- to please their humans. They will keep on therapy. It is never wise to make abrupt running after that ball even if it hurts. Cats, changes in your animal’s life and, so, for on the other hand, may not want to admit to example, if you change from a regular diet to a senior diet, do it gradually by introduc- ing small quantities of the senior food to the Echo Grove's January regular food, increasing and exchanging the Charms volume until the shift is complete. Be cognizant of other needs of the senior animal. For example, more trips to relieve will almost certainly be necessary and greater patience may be required. Dogs that enjoy walks will continue to enjoy them but the distance may need to be shortened. Cats who like that multi-level cat tree may need to have the tree’s “limbs” lowered. Water bowls should be kept well filled and daily grooming becomes even more of a comfort. Games of fetch can be adjusted to shorter distances for throws, shorter time periods, and even rolling the ball for the dog Broadening their charms to include instead of tossing it in the air to prevent the the neighboring towns of Moraga and dog from air jumping. The purchase of a Lafayette, Echo Grove's January charms therapeutic pet bed can be helpful for the feature Campolindo and Acalanes high aging dog or cat. schools. To receive your free charm, Enjoy the slower pace of your companion just say the magic words – “Happy animal’s senior years. The rush for frenzied New Year” – when visiting the store at activity is behind you and together you Theatre Square. can enjoy relaxing together, watching the sunset, smelling the roses. The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 n 13 Local Groups

Friday Forum Speaker Addresses Orinda Woman’s Club Beneficiary Forms Human Trafficking rinda Woman’s Club is accepting applications for the major beneficiary awards Oof 2015. Accepted applicants must fulfill the criteria: 1) serving youth, women By BOBBIE DODSON growing crimes in the United States,” says and children primarily in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties; 2) a 501(c)(3) orga- Staff Writer Bryant. When a local 17-year-old girl was nization with an income no greater than $2 million annually. taken from a grocery store in her sleepy Application forms can be acquired from Orinda Woman’s Club, Beneficiary irst Friday Forum (FFF) ushers in its Sacramento suburb, Bryant was shocked Chair, 925-254-1162 or [email protected]. F2015 season with a topic much in the that human trafficking was occurring right news today. Ashlie Bryant, vice president in her backyard. The incident inspired her of development for Break Free, will speak and three friends to found Break Free, Inc., on The Race to End Human Trafficking a division of 3Strands, to raise awareness on Jan. 9, 1:30 pm, in the Sanctuary of and funds about the crime. 28th Annual Festival of Trees Break Free’s website states: “There are more slaves today than were seized from Raises $40K Africa in four centuries of the trans-Atlantic slave trade. The modern commerce in hu- mans rivals illegal drug trafficking in its global reach and in the destruction of lives.” It is estimated there are 29 million slaves in the world today, generating about $32 bil- lion each year – and the number is growing. The Bay Area is one of the top markets for human trafficking in the U.S. In a 2009 report, the FBI identified 13 areas with the largest incidence of child sex trafficking in the nation. San Francisco was one of them. “We need to find out about human traffick- ing, where it occurs, ways to combat it and how victims can be helped,” says Bryant. “Break Free believes knowledge is power and seeks opportunities to educate our CONTRIBUTED PHOTO PHOTOS BY CHARLIE JARRETT Ashlie Bryant of Break Free will speak on "The youth, especially, and all people so they A very happy Jean Barnhart (L) won the trip to Mexico at the Festival of Trees luncheon while local Realtor Race to End Human Trafficking." too can help fight it.” Patti Camras took to the runway as one of Helen Lyall's models. Bryant’s diverse responsibilities with Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Break Free include speaking, training and rinda Woman’s Club president Alison Community Service Committee. Helen Knox Drive, Lafayette. educating. She is also a part of the Cali- OKling, along with Elene Lee, Festi- Lyall of Clothes for Women at Riverfront “Human trafficking is one of the fastest fornian Attorney General’s roundtable in val of Trees chair and Susan Domingos, in Napa outfitted statuesque models in up- Sacramento that focuses on collaborative publicity chair, were on hand to welcome to-the-minute fashions. As they sashayed solutions to the crime. In 2013 Bryant was more than 540 attendees at the San Ramon up and down the runway, the upbeat music Speakers For 2015 awarded a Resolution of the California Marriott on Nov. 20. Dan Ashley, Channel kept things moving. Guests at the event January 9 Ashlie Bryant, Vice State Senate for her dedication in the fight 7 news anchor, emceed the sold-out lunch- contributed more than $40,000 to fund the President Of Break Free, against human trafficking. time event and explained how the funds chosen beneficiaries. For more information “The Race To End Hu- Bryant has extensive professional expe- raised support the Court Appointed Spe- about the Orinda Woman’s Club, see www. man Trafficking” rience in marketing, communications and cial Advocates (CASA) program, Holden orindawomansclub.org. February 6 Dr. George Breslauer, public relations. Prior to founding Break High School in Orinda and the group’s – Elana O’Loskey, Staff Writer Newly Retired Uc Pro- Free, she held executive marketing and fessor, “Russia, Ukraine, communications positions in Silicon Valley. And The West In 2015” She has a B.A. in International Relations March 6 Dr. Joel Kramer , Director and French from U.C. Davis. Of The Neuroloical Insti- Over the past three years, Break Free has tute At Ucsf On Demen- presented information on human trafficking tia/Alzheimers Research to more than 7,000 students in schools and April 10 Kenneth Wiseman “Parks colleges. A race at Lake Merritt in Oakland Forward: A New Project in November raised more than $60,000 for To Protect State Parks In the cause. A similar event in Folsom last California” September raised more than $100,000. May 1 Dr. David Sedlak “Wa- Darlene James, chair of the FFF team, ter 4.0 The Past, Pres- hopes people will attend the Friday forum. ent, And Future Of The “While human trafficking may not be a World’s Most Vital Re- pleasant topic, it is one about which we all source” need to gain a greater understanding and June 5 Dog Day: Three Pre- learn about ways we might help combat sentations On Service it,” says James. “We hope many will attend Dogs; Guide Dogs For to become educated about this important The Blind; Dogs For issue of our day.” Diabetics; And Canine Refreshments will be served in Fellow- Companions ship Hall at 1 pm. For information, call 925-283-8722. 14 n The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 Continuations

t Awards from page 1 cludes a sense of community.” Every year, OIS and an enthusiastic member of Others some 400 OIS students spend more than First. “I started doing Others First in sixth Polio Plus and Operation Smile, which 3,000 hours volunteering their time at local grade,” said Friese. “My older sister Em- raises funds for surgery to repair cleft pal- non-profits. In 2014, students took part in ily was involved in Others First before I ates in children. a variety of environmentally focused volun- went to OIS so I knew about the program. “He also took soccer uniforms and an teer activities including the Olive Festival, At the end of her eighth-grade year, Emily ambulance and fire truck on behalf of our cleaning up the Wagner Ranch Nature Area, received an award (Ellen D. Amen Award club to Tala, Mexico,” said fellow Rotary walking dogs and helping with mailings at for Volunteerism) for the most hours Club member Gary Wong. “He has been the San Pablo Animal Shelter, sorting food throughout her years at OIS. She and my in charge of the Rotary Spring Egg Hunt at the Contra Costa Food Bank, the Special mother both inspired me to help out in the for several years, headed up our team for Olympics Bridge to Bridge Run and tree community.” Orinda Action Day and shepherded our maintenance at the Moraga pear orchards. Friese said the group completed many project for the electronic scoreboard at “It’s a great group, especially since it’s projects in 2014, including preparing Wilder. Dick is an enthusiastic, tireless centered around youth,” said Waterman. and serving lunches at Glide Memorial and faithful supporter of the Rotary Club “It’s a fantastic opportunity because it Church in San Francisco. “Another project of Orinda and the personification of the allows youth to get a feeling for public I enjoyed was gift wrapping presents for attitude of ‘giving back to the community.’” service from a very young age. The fact that children at Bay Area Crisis Nursery,” said so many students are involved is amazing Friese. “It allowed me to take a step back William Penn Mott, Jr. Environmental – teachers, parents and students are doing from my life and realize that not everyone Award a great job.” is as privileged as we are in Orinda.” Others First is a student organization at Others First has been in action at OIS The 13-year-old said she’s really happy OIS dedicated to building a volunteer ethic for 10 years, said parent Annette Linney, that Others First is receiving the OA award. at an early age. Its mission is “to remind who coordinates the program. Her son, “I think that it will show OIS students and our students that a complete education in- eighth-grader Scott Linney, is part of the parents that Others First is a great program Green Team, which picks up recycling and to be involved in,” she said. “I think the cleans up the campus at lunch time. “It’s award will raise awareness about the pro- great that the program is finally getting gram and what we are trying to achieve. I recognized with this award. It will also let hope others are encouraged to volunteer other students learn about the program and because it is one of the most rewarding start volunteering as well,” said Linney. experiences a middle school student can Stephanie Friese is an eighth-grader at have.”

whom the Orinda formula of mainstream t housing from page 7 sports and tough academics doesn’t work. site. More than half in attendance were “These kids need an alternative place,” she youth and adult supporters of Lamorinda said. “Let’s keep LMAS the way it is.” Martial Arts Studio (LMAS) located at Voicing support for the Housing Element 1 Orinda Way. LMAS owner John Drath was 26-year Orinda resident Valerie Sloven, successfully rallied his devoted students who stated her belief in regional planning, and parents to attend the meeting and voice and thanked the council and staff for their concerns over the possible destruction of time, acknowledging that the Housing their beloved studio. But after clarification Element process has been arduous. She by Vice Mayor Victoria Smith that ground reminded the assembly that “Orinda is not floor zoning would not change and that an island,” and that “We need to do our any development would take place on a part to create a Bay Area that is livable for second and third story, Drath humorously everyone.” Eartha Newsong concurred, apologized for the crowd he had assembled. stating that many residents of affordable But, he continued to express concern that housing are teachers and other valued development of the site would likely entail community members, and not necessarily a mass remodel of his entire building and “people with guns.” the possibility that he might need to find The 5th Cycle Housing Element is part a temporary substitute site for the school. of a state law mandate requiring that cities LMAS students, ranging in age from five include adequate land area zoned to accom- through 18, spoke eloquently and passion- modate their “fair share” of the regional ately about the effect that LMAS has had on need for affordable housing. In order to their lives, and pleaded that the council not meet HCD’s housing mandate for the next select their site for zoning. Clara Wu, age eight year period, Orinda must allocate 227 13, discussed the merits of Drath’s studio units of housing in the following income and his lessons. “You can’t find a family at levels: 84 very low; 47 low; 54 moderate; just any studio,” she said. Sisters Liesl and and 42 market rate. City Planner Emmanuel Emily, ages 10 and 9, stated that LMAS “is Ursu clarified that the city’s role is limited like a second home.” And Susan Levy, par- to identifying sites and establishing zon- ent of an LMAS student, shared her support ing to allow property owners to develop stating that LMAS is a place for those for as desired. The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 n 15 School / Students Youth Ink Writers Reflect on Their Work

By KATHRYN G. MCCARTY who live or attend school in Orinda. The Contributing Writer prompt for this year’s contest is “Choices.” “We can’t wait to see how Orinda’s hat I love best about writing is talented youth writers will approach this “Wthat you can create whatever you year’s prompt although they can write want, and there is no right or wrong,” said about anything they choose,” said Tracy Sage Kang, 13. Last year, Kang won an Cummings, president of Orinda Juniors. Honorable Mention in the Orinda Juniors’ While Kang said, “Entering a writing Youth Ink 2014 program with her story contest is a fun way to share my love for

“Don’t Judge a Fish.” writing with other people, and for me to CONTRIBUTED PHOTO “I was inspired to write it by a quote by hear other people’s writing as well,” con- Youth Ink winner Sarah Inouye from Orinda Inter- Albert Einstein that my PE teacher wrote test organizers see other values in writing mediate School with Tamara Ireland Stone, an on the board,” the eighth-grader said. as well. author who spoke at the event. Inspiration for Sarah Inouye’s first-prize Co-chairs Elizabeth Casey and Leigh fantasy.” winning story “Listen” was found in her Colburn said that, “Though Orinda students Inouye, who describes herself as “pas- belief that if people “just tried to understand are fortunate in many ways, our community sionate” about writing, said, “When you and listen to each other, there would be a does not shelter them from the stresses of write everything is yours. You create amaz- lot less hate and evil.” The seventh-grader adolescence.” ing people and different worlds.” at Orinda Intermediate School added, “I The Orinda Juniors believes that provid- [See Youth page 18] write stories about everything really – the ing a healthy outlet, such as the arts, can characters and places just fly at me from out build self-esteem. The confidence built of the air, and I have to write about them!” from the event “carries over to all aspects of With the submission deadline for Youth life — including school, social interactions, Ink 2015 looming, these young writers are family and the community.” exploring fodder for new stories. The annu- Casey expects the submissions to be al creative writing contest, sponsored by the “wide-ranging and very diverse. We get Orinda Junior Women’s Club, is open to all some that are quite personal, some hi- sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade students lariously funny and others that are pure School Calendar JANUARY Note: Schools closed for Winter Break through Jan. 2, closed Jan. 19 for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Public schools closed Jan. 26 for staff development.

9 Del Rey Elementary School Parents Club Executive Board Meeting, library, 9 to 10 am. Visit http://dr-orinda-ca.schoolloop.com. 12 Orinda Union School District Board Meeting, 8 Altarinda Road, 6 pm. Visit www. orindaschools.org. Del Rey Elementary School Parents Club Meeting, library, 7 pm. Visit http://dr-orinda- ca.schoolloop.com. 13 Miramonte High School Parent Education: Raising Resilient Girls, theatre, 7 pm. Visit www.acalanes.k12.ca.us/miramonte. 14 Acalanes Union High School District Governing Board Meeting, 1212 Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette, 7:30 pm. Visit www.acalanes.k12.ca.us. 21 Miramonte High School Parents Club Meeting, 9:30 to 11 am. Visit www.acalanes. k12.ca.us/miramonte. 23 Del Rey Elementary School Grandparents Day, , 8 to 11 am. Visit http://dr-orinda-ca. schoolloop.com. Orinda Intermediate School Dances, sixth grade (3:45 to 5:15 pm), seventh and eight grades (6:30 to 8:30 pm). Visit http://ois-orinda-ca.schoolloop.com. 22 Miramonte High School Junior Parent Naviance Workshop, College Career Center, 2 pm and 6 pm. Visit www.acalanes.k12.ca.us/miramonte. 28 Acalanes Union High School District Shakespeare Festival, Acalanes High School, 1200 Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette, 9 am to 3 pm. Visit www.acalanes.k12.ca.us. Holden High School Information Night, 10 Irwin Way, 6 pm. Visit www.holdenhigh. org. 29 Miramonte High School Public Speaking Showcase, Miramonte High School Theater, 7 pm. Visit www.acalanes.k12.ca.us/miramonte. Also Jan 30. 16 n The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 Classified t MOFD from page 5 “From the hills on that side of the district, her.” been stung by a bee on the top of her head that’s impressive,” said Perry. En route to With the help of Moraga police, the and was unaware that she was allergic to was broken and the bicycle was on the the hospital, both paramedics rode in the engine crew distracted the dog and began bee stings. “She was treated and released ground. There was no evidence that he ambulance, allowing them to establish IVs, ventilating the patient. When the ambu- from the hospital in a few short hours,” said was hit by a car or had just crashed on his administer oxygen and alert the hospital’s lance arrived, paramedics completed the Perry. “She vows to carry an EpiPen with own. He was awake, but not verbal.” The trauma center. “The patient underwent assessment, which revealed a low blood her from now on.” The dog was reunited three firefighters immobilized the man and extensive surgeries and will have a tough pressure, high heart rate, poor skin signs with its owner shortly thereafter. prepared him for transport. Within minutes, rehab but is expected to make a nearly full and a constricted airway. “This is a text- MOFD board member Fred Weil lauded the ambulance arrived, freeing up one of- recovery,” said Perry. book anaphylactic reaction,” said Perry. the firefighters. “We hear from time to time ficer to manage traffic while the other four The last example, “is a situation where it “One person from the engine crew got on from self-appointed experts that tell us that helped the patient. was important that the patient was treated the ambulance and drove, allowing the we have too many people showing up at “One note on this call: One of the fire- on scene,” said Perry. Engine 42 responded two medics to continue treatment on the events like this,” said Weil. “The common fighters on duty that day happened to be to a report of a bee sting on a hiking trail. way to the hospital.” One medic managed thread in these incidents is having enough one of the firefighters that was significantly Upon arrival, the crew found an uncon- the airway and the other established an IV people to actually be able to do the job injured in the Highway 24 accident last scious woman with inadequate respiration and administered intravenous epinephrine. that’s necessary and having enough of the year and found himself again in the line – two to three breaths per minute. Her “Within minutes after receiving the medica- right equipment on hand as well. Some- of traffic,” said Perry. “I want to commend large dog was standing guard. “Dispatch tion and increased oxygenation, she began times it’s called wasteful, but it certainly him for doing a tremendous job and not informed us that she made the call and to improve. By the time they reached the was not wasteful for these two people.” thinking twice about it.” The total time for that she had been stung by a bee and felt hospital, she was awake, alert and embar- For more information, visit www.mofd. the call was 32 minutes and 22 seconds. like she was going to pass out,” said Perry. rassed,” added Perry. The woman said she’d org. “That was the last anyone had heard from t seniors from page 1 t Simpson from page 6 kitchen, an exercise room, a library/com- t Letters from page 4 Barc felt strongly about and something our puter learning center and laundry facilities. which mandates construction of low- Sharon explained that as the son of a daughter is carrying on.” A back courtyard features a barbecue area income housing in Orinda, a city that has teacher and inventor, Barc respected the When I approached Barc for another and a raised-bed community garden with no extra room for additional residences. value of education. To help support arts interview for a Veteran’s Day article this a Sunset magazine aesthetic. Designed Accompanying the Housing Element is the and education, the couple formed the year, Sharon responded that her husband to achieve a GreenPoint Rated* score of Second Units program, which will allow Simpson Put Something Back Fund. One was not in good health. Besides, she said, more than 150 points, the development many Orinda property owners to construct of the causes the group championed is Girls he wouldn’t be a good interviewee because incorporates sustainable features such as -- virtually anywhere in town -- guest Inc. When the pair began working with “he always lives for the future.” solar hot water and photovoltaic systems. homes for low-income individuals. Girls Inc. 15 years ago, they learned only Like the seed the couple planted that (*GreenPoint Rated is a project of Build The proper, compassionate and unbi- 4 percent of the 30 girls in the class were grew into their children’s love of art, the It Green, a non-profit organization whose ased way to handle shelter for low-income reading at grade level - so they supported seeds of the Simpson’s philanthropy and mission is to promote healthy, energy- and individuals is to have charities or the the development of Girls Inc.’s literacy community activism will continue to blos- resource-efficient homes in California.) government give these individuals cash program, GirlStart, which has been highly som, insuring that Barc’s legacy thrives far Nearly 300 applications for residency and let these individuals determine where successful. into the future. were received, including 75 from Lamor- they want to live. What would happen if Exposing inner city kids to art, music and Donations in Barclay Simpson’s honor inda citizens. Residents were picked via a Orinda built 1,000 new homes and nobody science was Barc’s passion, said Sharon. may be made to Girls Inc. of Alameda random lottery, with preference given to moved in? “His legacy is helping kids to get ahead,” County, 510-16th St., Oakland, CA 94612. Section 8 qualifiers, such as those currently Eve Phillips, as a new member of the Sharon said. “Girls Inc. was something that Visit http://www.girlsinc-alameda.org. on the Housing Authority of Contra Costa Orinda City Council will not automatically County’s Wait List, those with a household have the votes to bring about the changes member who is a current or veteran mili- that Orinda needs. But her election is a Coupon Clippers - Shop Locally and Save! tary, those with a household member who start. lives, works or has been hired to work in the After winning the Battle of Egypt in late City of Orinda or those with a household 1942, the immortal Winston Churchill said member who was involuntarily displaced what today could be said about Ms. Phillips’ from housing due to a federal or state- election victory: “Now this is not the end. declared disaster or government action. It is not even the beginning of the end. But Leslie Bown is Monteverde’s property it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.” manager. She also oversees Lafayette’s That clique of City Council members -- a Belle Terre, another Eden property, and will clique beholden to such special interests as split her time between the two properties. real-estate developers, construction work- A part-time services coordinator will soon ers, and banks -- that has been ruling Orinda join the team. All Monteverde apartments for many years now has to reckon with the have been allocated and a waiting list has reality that Orindans want change. been started. For more information, call – Richard S. Colman 925-297-4297 or visit www.edenhousing. org. 2015 Publication Schedule Orinda News classified ads ...... classified ads Issue Deadline February 2015 January 5, 2015 Your ad in The Orinda News reaches 9,000 households and businesses in Orinda! Help Wanted March 2015 February 5, 2015 The Orinda Union School District is seeking enthusiastic and qualified individuals as substitute Ad rates are $5 per teachers and aides. To join our team, please apply on www.Edjoin.org. line - $10 minimum There are 32 spaces per line. Count each letter, punctuation mark, and space between words. Household Service Categories Name______Category______Total Clean. Serving Lamorinda homes since 1985. Insured and bonded employees. 376-1004. • For Sale Address______Number of Lines______Cars Instruction Musical Instruments City______Zip______Phone______Email______Tutoring for out-of-the-box kids. I have a doctor- Sports Equipment Write your ad in the boxes below with one letter, space or punctuation mark in each box. Cost is ate in 2e/gifted/learning disabilities. I bring 15 Miscellaneous $5 per line: $10 minimum. years experience in helping kids learn. Come visit • Help Wanted us at Big Minds and see how we can help your child • Household Services succeed! [email protected] Caregivers Services Domestics Rain gutter Cleaning. Roof cleaning, overhang- House-Sitting ing branches trimmed. Charles (h) 925-254-5533 • Instruction or (c) 925-528-9385. Music Lessons Raquel’s Housecleaning. Competent, Reliable, Tutors Trustworthy & Friendly. 10+ years experience! Miscellaneous English Speaking. Call for free estimate 510-772- • Pets 7119. • Pet Care Wanted • Rentals • Services Enclose your check payable to The Orinda Association and mail to Orinda News, P.O. Box 97, Orinda, I buy 1950’s Furniture. Danish modern, Herman • Vacation Rentals/ CA 94563. We reserve the right to reject any ad. Classified ads must be prepaid. Your cancelled check is Miller, Knoll wanted. 1 item or entire estate! Call Home Exchanges your receipt. Rick at 510-219-9644. Courteous house calls. • Wanted The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 n 17 Calendar On The Calendar Orinda Academy's Food Drive JANUARY 3 In Forma’s 20th anniversary party, 6 pm, 23 Orinda Way. Call 925-254-6877. 7 Orinda Parks and Recreation Department and the American Red Cross Blood Drive. To schedule an appointment, visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code Orinda or call 1-800-733-2767. Walk-in donors also welcome. 8 Orinda Theatre Free Movie Night every second Thursday, 7 pm. Visit www.lamorindathe- atres.com/index_orinda.asp. Orinda Books Story Hour with Cathy Goshorn for children aged 2 to 4, Thursdays, 276 Village Square, 10 to 11 am. Call 925-254-7606. Orinda Community Center Thursdays Together board games for seniors, 10 am to noon. $3 residents, $4 non-residents. Call 925-254-2445 or visit www.cityoforinda.org. 10 Orinda Books hosts mother-and-son writing team Caroline and Charles Todd discussing their new book, A Fine Summer’s Day, 276 Village Square, 3 pm. Also attending are fellow authors, Cara Black, Simon Wood, Kelli Stanley and Priscilla Royal. Call 925-254-7606. 17 Moraga Art Gallery, “Art Appassionata” by Lisa Gunn, reception 5-7 pm, 925-396-5407 or moragaartgallery.com Rotary Club of Orinda Dungeness and Drafts All-You-Can Eat Crab Feed, Orinda Masonic CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Lodge, 9 Altarinda Road, 6 pm., courtesy of La Piazza and live entertainment. Tickets are Ninth grade students at Orinda Academy collected over 40 bags of food during a food drive at Orindawoods $50. Visit www.orindarotary.org or call 925-254 6262, ext. 1, for reservations. and donated it to the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. Students included (L-R): Malaya Phelps, Virginia Clark, Yusra Khan and Humah Sultani. Rheem Theatre Live Jazz Series, 350 Park St., Moraga, features award-winning singer Linda Kosut, 7 pm. $20 general; $15 seniors and children. Series runs every third Saturday. Visit www.lamorindatheatres.com/index_newrheem.asp. Community, Culture and Vision 18 St. Mark’s United Methodist Church Celebrate Week of Christian Unity, 451 Moraga Way, Orinda, 2 pm. t. Mark's Church at 451 Moraga Way 20 AAUW presents “The Many Stories of Rosie The Riveter,” 9 am, Holy Trinity Serbian Swill observe the week of Christian Church Cultural Center, 1700 School Street, Moraga. Email communication-publicity@ unity, interfaith relations and Dr. Martin aauwoml.org. Luther King Jr.'s birthday on Jan. 18 at 2 Orinda Parks and Recreation Department Peerless Coffee and Tea Tour to Jack London pm with a workshop featuring Father Tom Square for seniors, 8:30 am to 3 pm. Residents $25; non-residents $29. Call 925-254-2445 Bonacci of the Interfaith Peace Project and or visit www.cityoforinda.org. music by the Chorus of Sufi Reoriented and CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Orinda Books hosts Yiyun Li discussing her novel Kinder than Solitude, now in paperback, guitarist Christopher Giffen. Father Tom Bonacci. 276 Village Square, 7 pm. Call 925-254-7606. 22 Orinda Books hosts Pete Crooks discussing his book The Setup: A True Story of Dirty Cops, Soccer Moms, and Reality TV, 276 Village Square, 7 pm. Call 925-254-7606. Club, 315 Camino Sobrante. 30 International Film Showcase presents the Italian film noir Human Capital through Feb. 5. Orinda Junior Women’s Club community service group. First Tuesday, September through Showtimes will be available Jan. 26 on the website. Visit http://internationalshowcase.org/. June, 7 pm, www.orindajuniors.org. Orinda Rotary. Every Wednesday, noon, Orinda Country Club, 315 Camino Sobrante, 925- AT THE LIBRARY 254-2222. All events are free unless otherwise specified. Library closed Jan. 1 for New Year Orinda Association. Second Monday, 7:15 pm, Orinda Library, May Room, 925-254-0800. and Jan. 19 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. For more information, call 925-254- Orinda Hiking Club. Every weekend and first Wednesday, www.orindahiking.org or Ian at 2184 or visit www.ccclib.org/locations/Orinda.html. 925-254-1465. 7 Teen Advisory Group, first Wednesday of month, Tutoring Room, 4 pm. Make an appoint- Orinda Historical Society. Third Wednesday, 7 pm, 10 Irwin Way, 925-254-1353. ment at the Information Desk. Teens meet with teen librarian to plan fun teen programs and Orinda Job’s Daughters. First and third Monday, 7 pm, 9 Altarinda Road, 925-283-7176. suggest library resources. Teens receive volunteer hours and grow leadership skills. Orinda/Tábor (Czech Republic) Sister City Foundation. Fourth Thursday, 7 pm, social, 7:30 Free Computer & eReader Help, Wednesdays, 5:30 to 7:30 pm. pm, meeting, call 925-254-8260 for location. Paws to Read. First- through fifth-graders practice reading with a friendly dog, Gallery Orinda Teen Advisory Council. Second Wednesday, 4 pm, Community Center, 28 Orinda Way, Room, 3:30 to 4:30 pm. Call or visit the library to register. email [email protected]. 8 English as a Second Language Conversation Circle. Practice English conversation in an Orinda Woman’s Club. Second Tuesday, 9:30 am to noon, call Jean Barnhart, 925-254-3881, informal, small-group setting, Tutoring Room, 1 to 2:30 pm. Preregistration not required. or https://sites.google.com/site/orindawomansclub/. Also Jan. 15, 22 and 29. Walnut Creek Garden Club. Second Monday, 9:30 am, Camellia Room, Heather Farm, 1540 10 Saturday Morning Live! Story time for children aged 3 to 5, Picture Book area, 11 am. Marchbanks Road, Walnut Creek, http://californiagardenclubs.com/content/walnut-creek- Also Jan. 17, 24 and 31. garden-club or [email protected]. January speaker is rose breeder Tom Liggit talking Weekend Paws to Read. First- through fifth-graders practice reading with a friendly dog, on heirloom varieties of fruits, vegetables and roses. Gallery Room, 2:30 to 3:30 pm. Call or visit the library to register. 13 Toddler Lapsit. Story time for children aged 1 to 3 and their caregivers, Gallery Room, 10 CITY/FIRE/SCHOOL DISTRICT MEETING SCHEDULE and 10:30 am. No registration required, but attendance limited to once per week. Also Jan. Acalanes Union High School District. First and third Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m., district office, 1212 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28. Pleasant Hill Road, Lafayette. City Council. First and third Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Library Auditorium, www.cityoforinda.org. Peek-A-Boo Time. Songs, stories, rhythms and rhymes for infants to 18 months, Gallery Historic Landmarks Committee. Fourth Tuesday, 3 to 5 p.m., Library Garden Room. Call Room, 11:30 am. Also Jan. 20 and 27. 925-788-7323. 14 Hat Program. Get ready for National Hat Day (Jan. 15) with hat stories, hat making and a Moraga-Orinda Fire District. First and third Wednesday of the month, 7 p.m.. Visit hat parade, sponsored by the Friends of the Orinda Library, 3:30 pm. www.mofd.org/board/meetings meeting location will be posted on the agenda. 16 Mystery Book Club members discuss The Art Forger by B.A. Shapiro, Tutoring Room, 3 Orinda Union School District Board of Trustees. Second Monday, 6 p.m., OUSD to 4 pm. For 18 years and up. Conference Room, 25 Orinda Way—Suite 200, Orinda, CA 94563. For the latest listing of dates, please check the website at www.orindaschools.org. CLUB MEETINGS Planning Commission. Second and fourth Tuesdays, 7 p.m., Library Auditorium, www.cityo- Diablo Star Chapter #214, Order of the Eastern Star. Second Monday, 7:30 pm. Orinda Masonic forinda.org. Center, Karen Seaborn, 925-689-0995. Friends of the Joaquin Moraga Adobe. Third Monday, 7:30 pm, Gallery Room, Orinda Library, Send calendar items to Maggie Sharpe at [email protected] www.moragaadobe.org. Friends of the Orinda Creeks. Fourth Wednesday, 8:30 am, May Room, Orinda Library, 925- 253-1997. Lamorinda Alcohol Policy Coalition. Third Wednesday, 10 to 11:30 am, Orinda City Hall Sarge Littlehale Room, 925-687-8844, ext. 227. Lamorinda Nature Walk and Birdwatching for seniors. Wednesdays, 9 to 11 am, free. Call 925-254-2445 for weekly meeting place. Lamorinda Sirs for retired men. Second Wednesday, 11 am to 1:30 pm, Holy Trinity Cultural Center, 1700 School St., Moraga, Pete Giers, 925-254-4667. Lamorinda Sunrise Rotary. Every Friday, 7 am, Lafayette Park Hotel, 3287 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, www.lamorindasunrise.com/ or 925-283-8288. Lamorinda Toastmasters. Every Tuesday, 7:30 pm, Temple Isaiah, 3800 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette, www.lamorinda.freetoasthost.net. Jan. 9 speaker AAUW Tech Trek Initiative; Jan. 16 Brazilian exchange student Gustavo Silva; Jan. 23 Laura Simpson on “Walnut Creek’s Development Explosion.” Montelindo Garden Club. Third Friday, 9 am, September through May, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 66 St. Stephen’s Drive, www.montelindogarden.com. January speaker is Claire Splan, author of California Fruit and Vegetable Gardening. Orinda Garden Club. Fourth Thursday, 10 am to noon, September through May, Orinda Country 18 n The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 Health / Beauty

Orinda Historical Society Has Fun Holiday Party Everyday Changes PROTECT, MOVE, EAT Recipes for a Healthy Winter Bonnie Waters

alifornia winters are mild compared for a more substantial meal. Cwith other parts of the United States. Most days are not blustery cold, however Ingredients: we still can experience the toll of seasonal 4 zucchini, sliced into spaghetti on a spiral changes – most notably joint pain and slicer stiffness. There are many possible causes 1 bunch broccoli, rough chopped of seasonal aches. The most common 4 kale leaves, stemmed and rough chopped reasons are: 2 cups of baby spinach

PHOTOS BY CHARLIE JARRETT Blood doesn’t circulate to the extremities 2 carrots, spiral sliced Bea Heggie (L) attended the Orinda Historical Society's holiday party at which East Bay MUD's as readily. olive oil Michelle Blackwell spoke on the history of water development in Orinda. In cold weather, our muscles tighten up. sea salt & freshly ground pepper We exercise less in the winter months. 3 cloves of garlic, coarsely chopped Parmesan Cheese (optional) AAUW Presents the Many Stories What to Do: Spiral slice zucchini and carrot into Protect: Keep your body and especially separate bowls. Heat oil in the pan. Add of Rosie The Riveter your joints warm. Layer when outdoors broccoli, and saute until desired tenderness and remove layers indoors. is attained. Add in carrot spirals and stir Move: Less movement means slower fry for 2 minutes. Add in kale and spinach blood circulation and more stiffness. Opt and stir fry until kale and spinach are wilted for exercises that won’t give your joints a (about 1 minute). Turn off heat and add pounding such as gentle yoga and walk- zucchini spaghetti and stir around for 1 ing. Thai Yoga Massage is excellent for minute to slightly wilt zucchini for desired loosening up tight joints and improving texture. If zucchini is still too raw or al circulation. dente, cover the pan with a lid and let sit Eat: A diet containing calcium and for up to 3 minutes to steam zucchini into oin the Orinda, Moraga and Lafayette from the Rosie the Riveter National Park, vitamin D is important for good bone healthful submission. Toss with Parmesan JBranch of the American Association of will lead a historical recounting of Women and joint health. Moderate sun exposure cheese. University Women (AAUW) on Tuesday in WWII—with special highlights sur- available in California even in the winter January 20, for a program examining the rounding war jobs for women, issues sur- helps to provide the body with Vitamin D. Fresh Fig and Kale Toss powerful role of women in the WWII work- rounding the shifting role of women during Adequate vitamin D allows calcium from This salad can be made with either fresh force. The monthly branch meeting begins this era, and the critical role “Rosie” played the foods you eat to be readily absorbed. black mission or green figs. If fresh figs are at 9 am with a light continental breakfast, — who she was, how she got started and Enjoy a calcium rich diet by eating foods not available use dried figs reconstituted followed by a presentation at 9:30 am, at why the branding eventually discontinued. such as broccoli, kale and figs. Here are a in warm water. The sweet fig taste is the the Holy Trinity Serbian Church Cultural For more information about the event, few recipes to get you started. (learning- perfect complement to mild, curly green Center, 1700 School Street, in Moraga. email communication-publicity@aau- tolovekale.wordpress.com). kale in a light, fruity vinaigrette. Guest speaker, Ranger Raphael Allen woml.org. Zucchini and Broccoli “Pasta” (requires Ingredients: a Spiral Slicer) 1 small ripe avocado peeled, seeded and This recipe features zucchini as the pasta rough chopped element, which should be added to the 1/2 t sea salt sauteed vegetable elements only at the last 3 cups of kale – off the stem and rough minute after all the cooking is done and the chopped and massaged with the avocado heat is off. The pasta is more “wilted” than and sea salt for 1 minute to soften the kale cooked to keep it al dente and preserve its 3 figs -Mission or Green Figs, sliced or torn nutrients. It can also be used as a side dish into small pieces 2 carrots – in thin slices or spirals 1 English Cucumber – quartered lengthwise t Youth from page 15 and thinly sliced or spiral cut A panel of local professional writers adjudicate Youth Ink 2015. Co-sponsors Dressing: include the Orinda Association, Friends 2 T olive oil of the Orinda Library and The Orinda 2 T seasoned rice vinegar Community Foundation. An awards cer- 2 t Balsamic Vinegar emony will be held at the Orinda library 2 T maple syrup on Thursday, April 23 from 6 to 7pm. 1/8 t sea salt Winners will receive cash prizes and gift 5 turns coarsely ground black pepper certificates. Submissions are accepted on While especially great in winter, these an ongoing basis through Feb. 18, 2015. recipes are yummy all year round. Re- For more information, visit www.orinda- member for healthy joints any time of year, juniors.org. Protect, Move and Eat! The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 n 19 Business Buzz t District from page 1 A large number of people spoke at the Dec. 8 school board meeting with the ma- Children’s Health Guild Raises resolved, then it is referred to the district,” jority showing support for the second-grade said Freiman. Orinda, like several other student, including David Greenstone, a kin- $115K+ for Worthy Beneficiaries local districts including Los Gatos, San dergarten student at Glorietta Elementary Francisco and San Jose, uses private inves- School: “I want people to be treated fairly.” By ELANA O’LOSKEY tigators rather than staff to help determine Other speakers called the OUSD’s actions Staff Writer residency. “shameful” while Rebecca Verity asked for However, speaking during the Dec. 8 an independent investigation to ensure “that he Children’s Health Guild (CHG) school board meeting, Miriam Storch said racial profiling didn’t take place.” Traised over $115,000 for two benefi- that they were never contacted by the school According to records obtained from the ciaries at its annual Holiday Boutique and district regarding the second-grader and OUSD, recent residency investigations at Luncheon on Dec. 4 at the Ritz Carlton, her mother who live at the Storch home. the district level are as follows: San Francisco. “We are especially proud to The mother is a live-in nanny. “I couldn’t 2011-12 - 0 have launched our first Fund-a-Need at this believe what was happening. No one called 2012-13 – 3 families event, in which all proceeds go directly to ELANA O'LOSKEY us to ask anything. We are parents, not 2013-14 – 2 families Respite Care at George Mark Children’s Over 400 women attended the Children’s Health criminals,” said Storch. 2014-15 – 1 family House (GMCH) and The Family Informa- Guild Holiday Luncheon Fund A Need program at “We are absolutely looking at how we “The six families investigated during the tion and Navigation Desk (FIND) Program the Ritz Carlton, San Francisco on Dec. 4. (L-R) handle these cases,” said OUSD president approximately four-year period represented at UCSF Benoiff Children’s Hospital Oak- Kendall Glynn, CHG President, Holly Grossman (event co-chair), Orinda resident Dayna Long, MD multiple races and ethnicities, including land (USCF BCHO),” says Kendall Glynn, (speaker), and Jennifer Rego (event co-chair). multiple Caucasian families,” said Frei- CHG President. See http://childrenshealth- man. Former OUSD president Christopher guild.org for more information. Joanne Mosellen of Orinda says, “Our Severson noted in his outgoing letter to the Over 400 attended the sold out event, 3-year-old son is an oncology patient at public that “I have seen and experienced which included a talk by Orinda resident USCF BCHO, and we feel fortunate he is how this district values diversity and ac- Dr. Dayna Long. Dr. Long is the named being treated at such an amazing facility tively educates the 125 inter-district transfer recipient of the 2014 National Service where people are passionate about caring students and 26 English language learner Leadership Award by Americorps and the for children.” students.” spokesperson for the “Too Small to Fail: Respite care at GMCH offers parents and Out of a total of 2,542 students, with ap- Talk, Read, Sing” initiative sponsored by caregivers periodic “breaks” from the non- proximately 100 students declining to state, the Bill, Hillary and Chelsea Clinton Foun- stop physical and emotional responsibility the OUSD ethnic breakdown for 2014-15 dation. A Wagner Ranch mother of three of home care for a child with challenging is as follows: boys and renowned pediatrician at USCF medical needs. Some children are in need White/Caucasian 1,803 71.4 percent BCHO, Dr. Long spoke about what the of special rehabilitation, which is difficult Asian 460 18.2 percent FIND program is like in action and how it to provide at home, while others receive Hispanic/Latino 103 4.08 percent feels to be part of something that is making hospice care. See www.georgemark.org/ Native American/other/ a difference to patients and their families for more information. Pacific Islander 49 1.9 percent who are in dire need. FIND was co-founded The FIND program at USCF BCHO African-American 19 .75 percent about a year ago by Dr. Long and Dr. Kelly aims to reduce health inequities by partner- “The allegations of racism were very Meade, associate director of primary care ing families with community resources to hurtful to us,” said Moran. Our district and president of the medical staff at USCF address social determinants of health and SALLY HOGARTY does not use race in any way when con- BCHO. Mary Jane Perna, vice president overcome adversities such as food insecu- David Greenstone, a kindergarten student at sidering residency. There have been lots of philanthropy at USCF BCHO remarked rity, housing instability, secondhand smoke Glorietta, gets a lift from his mother so he can speak at the December meeting. of unfounded statements with no basis in that, “Medical recipients make up 71.2 exposure, access to green space and physi- reality, but privacy laws that protect the percent of children receiving care at UCSF cal activity. See www.childrenshospitaloak- Matt Moran. “This gives us an opportunity student prevent us from responding.” BCHO; 68.2 percent is our budget. CHG land.org/main/departments-services/155. to look at policies and, specifically, see if Residency requirements and policies for and other donors work to close the gap.” aspx for details. we can improve how we communicate with students with divorced parents living in the families. This situation has been hurt- different school districts can be obtained ful not only to the men and women who by contacting the OUSD office at 925- work in the district but to the community 254-4901. as a whole.” t buzz from page 20 As a retired nurse, she is adept at doing manicures and pedicures for diabetic clients Mahan. A talented hair stylist, Enferadi has with sensitivity to their special needs. “It 27 years of experience, six of those years is a pleasure working here with Bob, Fay, at Coiffeur Hut. Jan and Yvonne. We have watched our In addition to cutting and styling hair, children grow up together over the years,” coloring, permanents, highlights, shampoo says Johnson. and sets, Enferadi provides waxing and Johnson and all the stylists at Coif- threading services as well. “Many of my cli- feur Hut will travel to a client’s home to ents like new highlights and red highlights provide services by special request. Plans are very popular these days. For new clients are in the works to remodel the shop I offer a 20-percent discount on a haircut sometime later this year. Keep an eye out and permanent,” says Enferadi. for additional stylists to join this coming Manicurist Judie Johnson has been in fall. the business on a part-time basis for 30 For an appointment at Coiffeur Hut, call years. Previously she worked as registered 925-254-3373. For a manicure or pedicure, nurse at Rheem Convalescent in Moraga. call 925-254-9299. 20 n The Orinda News n JANUARY 2015 Business Buzz

and erosion control. “We are trying to connect with everyone Business Buzz who has vines and are on the lookout for new vineyards,” says Ward. “We encourage Putting a Personal Face the public to attend our meetings, especially individuals interested in planting vines. Our on Local Business number one priority is to help our members Valerie Hotz to make the best wine and in the process to build the Lamorinda region.” To view a map of the proposed Lamor- inda AVA and for more information about To send items for consideration, email AVA,” says Ward. “The farmer growing Lamorinda Wine Growers Association, Hotz at [email protected]. grapes within the AVA will have more of visit www.lamorindawinegrowersassocia- a story to tell, essentially tying his or her tion.com. Leslie Ward can be reached at Lamorinda Wine Growers Association grapes to the land.” Ward is excited about 510-406-5680. While hunting for good ground cover securing the AVA because it will draw visi- for their three-acre property that happened tors to the area. Orinda Chamber of Commerce Serves to have an excellent southwest exposure, Many members of the Lamorinda Wine- Community and Businesses Leslie and Jim Ward stumbled upon the growers Association have 10 to 12 acres Sylvia Jorgensen, president of the Orinda concept of planting grape vines. A consult Chamber of Commerce, wants Orindans with friends who are in the wine business to know the Board of Directors has been in the Los Robles area, an aerial survey working to better serve members and the DAVID DIERKS and a report from a soils engineer led to community as a whole. “We are working Orinda Chamber of Commerce president Sylvia their planting 1,500 pinot noir vines and hard, as previous boards before us have Jorgensen. the Lamorinda Wine Growers Association done, to support a nice shopping experience “Everybody can have a place here and was born. in Orinda,” says Jorgenson. find it very valuable. We enjoy interfacing “Our superb microclimate of cool eve- Programs implemented in order to ac- with the City of Orinda on behalf of our nings and warm days makes Lamorinda the complish this goal include a new member- members.” perfect location for many varieties of the ship program, an improved website, new Mark your calendar for the Comedy lighter red wines and of course all the white computer system and more staff. “There Night at the Orinda Theatre on March 6. wines,” explains Leslie Ward. “We recently are approximately 40 nonprofit organiza- Trivia Beat takes place in April in collabo- petitioned the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and tions in Orinda and about 20 of them are ration with the Orinda Rotary Club. Visit Trade Bureau to designate Lamorinda as an members, including the Orinda Rotary the Orinda Chamber of Commerce at www. American Viticultural Area (AVA) and an- Club, the Orinda Association, Friends of orindachamber.org for a full list of upcom- ticipate having a decision soon.” The AVA Wagner Ranch Nature Area and the Orinda ing events, including luncheons and mixers. are federally recognized regions in the U.S. Arts Council. We throw a lot of love to For more information or to join the and essentially define the distinguishing the nonprofit community by mobilizing Orinda Chamber, contact Candis Katten- features of a grape-growing area. DAVID DIERKS Ambassadors and board members to help,” burg at 925-254-3909. Leslie Ward, president of the Lamorinda Wine AVA designation is a benefit to the wine Growers Association. says Jorgenson. grape grower, the winery that uses grapes A private wealth manager for Merrill from a specific AVA and to the consumer and cultivate up to 5,000 grape vines, while Lynch for the past eight years, Jorgenson as well. “Knowing where a wine comes most members farm 200 to 400 vines. The is an expert at creating 401(k) plans for from is important because it provides more organization hosts special events through- business owners, advising on planning for information about the unique characteris- out the year, including a speaker series retirement and putting children through tics that define grapes grown in a specific which recently focused on sustainability college. “I deal with insurance and trust issues on behalf of clients as well,” says Jor- genson. She is married to Eric Jorgenson, owner of Candlestick Home and Garden, a small business specializing in home repair. The couple has five children. “People working together well is what the Orinda Chamber is all about,” she says.

SALLY HOGARTY Fay Enferadi (standing) and Judie Johnson of Coiffeur Hut in Orinda Village. Coiffeur Hut 2015 marks Coiffeur Hut’s 50th year in Orinda Village and this small business is still going strong. Originally established in 1965 by Bob Mahan and Yvonne Eidson, Mahan recently handed the reins over to Fay Enferadi, as he prepares for retirement later this year. Located at 23L Orinda Way, adjacent to Orinda Veterinary Clinic, there is ample free parking just a few steps away from the front door. Small and cozy with excellent natural light, the salon features oil paintings by local artist Mary Spain and views of native pines trees across the way. Four hair stylists offer their services here – Mahan, Eidson, Enferadi and Jan Tambellini – and Judie Johnson serves as in-house manicurist. A blast from the past is the row of hair dryers, offering cooler settings than blow dryers and gentler treatment of hair. “Rollers and dryers are popular with some clients because they provide less heat to hair,” says Enferadi. “We are all good friends here at Coiffeur Hut. I like doing hair, but it is time for a vacation after 49 years. After all, my wife would like to do some traveling,” says [See buzz page 19]