Cool Earth Wins Appeal to Build Solar Array

VOLUME XLIX, NUMBER 9 Your Local News Source Since 1963 SERVING DUBLIN • LIVERMORE • PLEASANTON • SUNOL THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012

The Alameda County Board Tony Chen, director of busi- on the TVC board, said that su- The next application in line is now is under construction. of Supervisors upheld Cool Earth ness development for Cool Earth, pervisors should not approve any from Pegasus Energy Partners, The county’s agricultural ad- Solar’s application for a solar en- said that the project will generate new solar arrays until the county which is proposing an installa- visory committee has expressed ergy installation in the Altamont, 270 jobs, an estimate based on a has a policy in place concerning tion on 2000 acres not far from very strong concerns about what denying an appeal by the Tri-Val- model created by the National the placement of solar installa- Cool Earth. When the county it sees as the threat to the remain- ley Conservancy (TVC). Renewable Energy Laborato- tions on agricultural land. heard of that application in the ing farming lands. It called on the Supervisors voted 4-0, at their ries. Hansen said that approval making, staff said there was a county last summer to slow down meeting Feb. 28, with supervisor The East County Board of without waiting for policy could need for a policy to be in place the policy formation process, Nadia Lockyer absent. Zoning Adjustment (BZA) ap- have big impacts down the line for the future. so that all views and more data Cool Earth Solar, which is proved a conditional use permit when it comes to preserving the Pegasus’ 2000 acres is more could be considered. Find Out What's based in Livermore, would pro- for Cool Earth in December. The county’s agricultural land. than one-half of the 3957 acres County planning staff contin- duce enough electricity on its panel’s vote was 2-1, with Larry TVC is concerned that ap- of prime agricultural land in ues to work on a policy draft. It Happening 140-acre installation to power Gosselin voting against it, and proving Cool Earth before policy the county. Most of it is in the is expected to be ready in five or Check out the 7000 homes. The site is close to Jim Goff and Jon Harvey for it. adoption would set a precedent Altamont, in the vicinity of the six months. a substation that enables the cur- However, TVC appealed that for future applications, said county’s first approved solar in- Tony Chen, director of busi- second section rent to go into the power grid. decision. Rik Hansen, who serves Hansen. stallation by Green Volts, which Section II is filled with infor- (See COOL EARTH, page 4) mation about arts, entertainment and special events. There are education stories, a variety of features, and the arts and enter- Livermore School tainment and bulletin board. District to offer Transitional Bankhead Theater Kindergarten By Patricia Koning Sees Increase When kindergarten registration begins this week, parents In Sold-Out Events will see a new option – Transi- Nearly halfway into the Bank- tional Kindergarten. This new head Theater’s fifth season, the grade is the result of The Kin- Livermore Valley Performing dergarten Readiness Act of Arts Center (LVPAC) reports 2010 (Senate Bill 1381), which that the percentage of events that amended California Education have sold out has nearly doubled Code to change the required compared with the same period birthday for admission to kin- last season. Ten of the 15 events dergarten and first grade. held at the theater since January The intent of the new law 1, 2012 were sell outs, including is to move the kindergarten shows offered by LVPAC Pres- cutoff date – the date by which ents, touring productions, and a child must turn 5 – from Dec. resident companies such as the 2 to Sept. 1. The change will be Livermore-Amador Symphony and Tri-Valley Repertory The- (See TRANSITIONAL, page 6) atre. With approximately two dozen sold-out shows in the Livermore Lab first five months of the 2011- 2012 season, LVPAC is on track Budget Stable to soon surpass the number of sold-out shows for the entire 12 Photo - Doug Jorgensen For Now, But months of last season. Cricket, owned by Sharon Fogerty, listen as second grader Jasmine Beltran reads. The sold out shows repre- ‘Turmoil’ sent all performing arts genres, Expected In 2013 from dance, classical and vocal Facing “budget turmoil” in groups, to contemporary music Therapy dogs lend an ear to Marylin Avenue students Washington this autumn, Law- and hard-rocking jazz and blues By Patricia Koning rence Livermore National Labo- artists. In addition, educational to read to certified therapy dogs. at the Rincon and Civic Center With help from Valley Humane Dogs, it turns out, are great PAWS to Read, which was mod- branches of the library. Society, which also supports the ratory Director Parney Albright events, such as the annual Sci- listeners. For struggling read- reassured employees last week ence on Saturday series spon- eled after a similar program in “Twice, PAWS to Read came library program, that problem ers, the act of reading out loud Pleasanton, has reached hundreds to evening reading events at was solved. that the Lab’s budget appears sored by Lawrence Livermore in front of class or to a teacher stable for the remainder of the National Laboratory and Cali- of kids in the three years since its Marylin and everyone loved it, In February, the therapy dogs can be stressful and frustrating. inception. the kids and the dog owners,” began coming to Marylin every fiscal year, which ends Septem- fornia Theatre Center’s weekday However, if you make a dog the ber 30. performances of plays for young Still, Gail Turner, coordina- she says. “A lot of these kids Wednesday afternoon in coor- audience, those concerns seem tor of PAWS to Read, knew just can’t get to the library in the dination with the BELIEVES However “there is a great deal people, have also been reaching to melt away. of uncertainty in Washington full capacity. Two of this season’s there were some kids who were evening and they are the ones afterschool program. Every in- That concept was the motiva- still missing out. In her role who need it the most.” terested child was given a chance over final appropriations” for the fundraising galas, which include tion behind the Livermore Pub- next fiscal year and beyond, he a festive post-show reception as a volunteer reading tutor at While everyone at the school to read with the dogs in the first lic Library’s wildly successful Marylin Avenue Elementary supported the idea of a regular few weeks. The BELIEVES co- wrote in an email that circulated (See THEATER, page 8) PAWS to Read Program, which School, she encouraged kids to PAWS to Read program on site, ordinator is now working with Laboratory-wide. The Laboratory is doing all gives children the opportunity come to PAWS to Read nights insurance was the problem. (See READING, page 8) (See BUDGET, page 6) Employers Invited To Sign Up for LPC Career Fair Livermore to Begin Talks Las Positas College invites Bay Area employers to register For a Hotel in the Downtown by April 6 for its annual Majors, The Livermore City Council Livermore Avenue. The site is Career and Employment Fair to approved a negotiating rights currently occupied by SpeeDee be held Thursday, April 26, from agreement with Sonnenblick Oil Change and a parking lot. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Industries LLG on a proposal to The property is designated as Employers will have the op- build a luxury hotel in downtown a hotel site in the Downtown portunity to interview students Livermore. Specific Plan. and recruit for full and part-time The council vote was unani- The developer has been in- career openings and summer mous, with some concerns about volved with prior hotel proj- jobs. Interested employers are potential massing to be addressed ects including the Loews Santa invited to contact Scheanelle in the near future. Monica Hotel, the Waldorf As- Green, Career/Transfer and Em- The negotiations will provide toria Boca Raton Restort, and Le ployment Center Coordinator, terms for the purchase of proper- Rivage Resort & Spa in Sacra- at (925) 424-1423 or sgreen@ ty located at the southeast corner mento. Proposed in Livermore is laspositascollege.edu. of Railroad Avenue and South (See HOTEL, page 8) Las Positas College is located at 3000 Campus Hill Drive in Livermore. Hosterman Looks Back at

Changes Over Last 8 Years Photo - Doug Jorgensen In her state of the city talk last This is Hosterman’s final year Castlewood Country Club workers and UNITE HERE Local 2850 were joined by hundreds of religious week, Pleasanton Mayor Jennifer as mayor. leaders, students, union members, and participants in Occupy Oakland and Occupy San Francisco for a Hosterman took a look back at Hosterman said, “In 2004, as peaceful march through Pleasanton on Saturday. They walked from Civic Park in downtown Pleasanton to her eight years in office, while a new Mayor, the big crisis in Castlewood Country Club. The day marked the two year anniversary of the lock out of Castlewood staff commenting on the current status Pleasanton surrounded the Oracle members over health care. A proposed plan would require higher contributions from workers who previously of the city. She stated, “I feel con- takeover of PeopleSoft, our own had not had to pay. The new fees were $366.93 a month for single policies and up to $739.08 for families. fident that at the end of my term, homegrown tech company. The After rejecting a counter-proposal from the union, Castlewood locked workers out on February 25, 2010. we today have a better, stronger, thought of 3,500 PeopleSoft Maria Ramirez, a Castlewood janitor, declared, “Chase Bank took away my home in the foreclosure crisis. and more self-sufficient Pleasan- jobs leaving our city was pretty Castlewood took away my job and my health care in the lockout. Working people won’t have anything Rabbit Adoption left unless we stand up for ourselves.” Last August, the General Counsel of the National Labor Relations ton than we had in 2004.” devastating.” Hi. Our names are Hans and Board issued a complaint charging that Castlewood has maintained an unlawful lockout “in order to deny Pieter. We’re young Dutch boys, The talk was presented during The city worked with Oracle. the locked out employees the right to return to their former positions of employment because they joined 6 weeks old. We were born at the a luncheon hosted by the Pleas- Now, today, as a result of those and/or supported the Union, and to discourage employees from engaging in Union activities.” An ongoing shelter. We're friendly, confident anton Chamber of Commerce. (See STATE OF CITY, page 10) hearing on the case is expected to conclude March 1. boys. We can be adopted together or separately. We are too young to be neutered, but our mandatory PET OF THE WEEK neuter is included in the adoption Inside Aloha. My name is Kona. Someone must have put Kona fee. To meet Hans and Pieter, join coffee in my water because I am a little dynamo who loves us this Saturday from 12-3 pm at Art & Entertainment...... Section II Roundup...... 3 to chase things and roll around like a kitten. I might even our Adoption Event at the Dublin do a little hula for you before I pounce on my next target. Petco, 11976 Dublin Blvd. Are you Bulletin Board...... Section II Short Notes...... 9 Please adopt me and I will be your loving companion able to adopt, volunteer or foster? Classifieds...... 10 Sports...... 7 and playmate. Come on down and meet him and his best EBRR can use the help. For more friend, Josie (not pictured). Interested in learning more? info, call 925-519-1723, or email Editorial...... 4 Obituaries...... 9 Call 925-426-8656 or go online to www.valleyhumane.org [email protected]. Visit Mailbox...... 4 or www.facebook.com/ValleyHumaneSociety to see other www.eastbayrabbit.petfinder.com adoptable dogs and cats. Valley Humane Society is located to see more pet profiles. at 3670 Nevada Street in Pleasanton.

PAGE 2 - The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 ACE Encourages Dreaming About Destinations That Are Fun By Ron McNicoll Dove said that the train is a real sible to link via bus to the San as an “excellent destination for a tive academy who came along to sent is the clickety-clack of train After its regular early morning boon for seniors. They are en- Jose Computer Museum and the stroll with friends or lunch with learn more about the train, and tracks. The ACE rails are welded commuter trips to Silicon Valley titled to a 50 percent discount San Jose Museum of Art. a business partner. “ share their ideas about how the together, so there are no gaps that last Friday, the ACE commuter at all times. They could board at Roxanne Lindsay visited the People east of the Valley could commuter express could become produce noise. express played host in mid-morn- Pleasanton or Livermore, and pay Museum of Art in December make Livermore or Pleasanton greener. There are a few tables. They ing to invited guests on a ride to just one-half of the regular one by taking ACE. She is the out- a day trip, or stay overnight, The leg of the trip from Pleas- enable people to play cards, eat show just what the train route is round-trip ticket fare of $12.25. reach representative for ACE. if they choose. Coming from anton to San Jose took about one a snack, or use a laptop. The all about. Travelers can make it a one- Lindsay saw a show by former Silicon Valley, passengers can hour. There was a one-half hour train is set up for wireless com- Besides appreciating the scen- day trip by catching one of the Independent photographer Bill have an afternoon start, and stay layover where ACE fed guests munication. ery ranging from the tranquility morning trains, and then leave Owens, who has an international overnight. lunch for a modest donation. The existence of an ACE train of Niles Canyon’s high-rising from San Jose at about 3:30, 4:30 reputation, because of his books, STUDENTS WANT TO Some riders took the op- surprised some people when hills and tall trees to the sparkling or 5:30 p.m. gallery prints, and lectures. MAKE TRAINS GREENER portunity to experience a quick it began in 1998. In the early shallow ponds at Alviso in the Their ACE tickets include Lindsay has had talks with The free trip, which included turn around the Diridon Sta- 1990s, Stacey Mortensen and South Bay, riders learned the a free shuttle bus ride to other Livermore wine growers about press, politicians and commu- tion, an Italian revival building, Brian Schmidt were employees benefits of bringing the leisurely transportation in San Jose. In attracting riders from Silicon Val- nity members, drew about 200 constructed in 1935. The walls of the San Joaquin County Public person into the world of ACE. downtown, there are many res- ley. The ACE web site also talks riders. Among them were 40 are covered with murals. It is Works Department. They were Pleasanton senor activist Jack taurants and shops. It’s also pos- about Pleasanton’s downtown students from a Stockton alterna- listed on the National Historical assigned the task of shooting Register. down the idea of having a train Diridon, named after a Santa from San Joaquin County to Clara supervisors who was a Silicon Valley. The public works transit advocate, is not a large staff just didn’t think it would NOMAD PLANETS IN mercial quantities. Reactors station. However, there is plenty work. SPACE? generate molybdenum-99 in of room for waiting, ticket sales, However, as the two con- There may be far more “home- their fuel rods. It decays into and a modest lunch counter that ducted their studies, they found less” planets drifting through Tc-99m, which can be extracted sells sandwiches, chips and non- increasingly that such a train the galaxy than there are planets chemically. alcoholic drinks. would work. So they turned bound gravitationally to stars, The sole source of Tc-99m There is a small display of things around by recommend- according to an imaginative in North America is a Canadian the history of rail travel in Santa ing the creation of ACE. They analysis at Stanford’s Kavli Insti- reactor scheduled for shutdown Clara County, with photos dating wound up with the two top jobs tute for Particle Astrophysics and in 2016. Cyclotron production back to the late 1800s that show at ACE to help the idea become Cosmology. would be welcome because horse drawn streetcars. operational. They still hold those The analysis is extrapolated many hospitals already have The station is intermodal. positions, and were on board for from astronomical observations cyclotrons to produce medical Valley Transit Authority (VTA) the ride. and known gravitational forces. radioisotopes with half-lives measured in minutes. buses link to the ACE and Penin- Service increased from two Outside our solar system, more than 500 planets have been de- The Tc-99m production research in Vancouver concentrated sula Amtrak trains and VTA light trains to three in 2001. Currently tected orbiting distant stars. In addition, recent studies have found on proton irradiation of molybdenum-100 targets using different rail. VTA has such a far-ranging there are 1600 round trips rid- about a dozen unattached planets wandering through space. These energies and geometries. The efficiency of Tc-99m production bus system that it’s possible to ers daily along the route. The discoveries exploited a phenomenon called gravitational lensing, and extraction was crucial for reasons of potential hospital costs. ride ACE to Diridon, then board train starts in Stockton and ends in which the light from a distant star is seen to focus and brighten Molybdenum is very expensive to buy. Cyclotrons are expensive the a VTA bus to Gilroy, Santa in San Jose. There are stops in briefly because of the gravity from a planet passing in front of it. to operate. For the same reason, the research team had to design Cruz or Monterey. Livermore and Pleasanton and at (Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory pioneered the use of recyclable targets. A MELLOW RIDE Great America. Connections with this technique in the 1990s.) Study leader Paul Shaffer said the new production method is FOR COMMUTERS local transit systems can be found Louis Strigari, leader of the Kavli research team, estimates that compatible with many cyclotrons around the world. Cyclotron- The trip from the Tri-Valley at nearly all stations. there could be 100,000 times more “nomad” planets than stars. He produced Tc-99m is not yet in medical use pending regulatory to San Jose has some excellent With the Silicon Valley econo- also supposes that any with a thick atmosphere and warmth built approval, which the Canadians believe will take two years. scenery in the wide open spaces. my picking up, ACE is beginning up by the decay of radioactive elements might host bacterial life. For the more distant future, cyclotrons are also the source of In some of the urban spots, to think about adding a fourth That speculation in turn leads to another, that wandering, radioactive materials used in PET (positron-emission tomogra- though, it shows one of the truths train in another year. It’s costly. microbe-laced planets might be helping to spread life around the phy) scans, the three-dimensional imaging process which medical of human existence. People keep Price tag on a passenger car is galaxy. authorities expect will eventually replace most uses of Tc-99m. their front yards looking good, $2.5 million. A cab car, which The advent of more powerful telescopes in another decade is but the back yard,which most combines engine and passenger expected to help identify nomad planets among many other fea- SCIENCE GROUPS OPPOSE GRANT ACT people don’t see, can be another functions, costs $2.8 million. A tures in the night sky. One of these is the Large Synoptic Survey More than 80 scientific organizations have banded together story. train requiress two cab cars, one Telescope, under development in the Chilean Andes with consider- to send a letter to every member of Congress expressing concern The greatest satisfaction for a at each end, because the trains do able help from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. about the Grant Act, formally called HR 3433 — a bill which commuter is not having to fight not turn around. Four cars would would require the public posting of funded scientific grant pro- traffic. Instead, one sits in high- be used on the fourth train. Two SUPPLIES OF MEDICAL ISOTOPE posals. back upholstered seats, and can of the current runs have five cars. Canadian cyclotron research has produced a new way to gener- Organizations which signed the letter include associations like barely hear the train’s horn. Ab- The busiest consists of six cars. ate significant quantities of technetium-99m, a radioactive isotope the American Chemical Society, the American Institute of Physics that is medically valuable and widely used. However, its supply and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. Lead- has been in question because it is produced in aging and sometimes ing scientific universities also signed, including the University of unreliable nuclear reactors. California and all its campuses individually. The research has been done at the TRIUMF accelerator labora- Their concern starts with forcing confidential and proprietary tory in Vancouver. information into the public domain whether or not it has been Technitium-99m, whose scientific symbol is Tc-99m, is used in patented or otherwise protected. some 20 million diagnostic tests per year worldwide for organs like Premature disclosure could make it impossible to seek a patent the heart, lungs, kidneys and liver. That’s about 85 percent of all for original work, the letter to Congress claimed. It could reveal nuclear medical diagnostic imaging procedures, so a loss of supply confidential lines of research, allowing “competitors (including could create significant challenges in hospitals. foreign scientists and industries) to steal cutting-edge American Tc-99m emits gamma rays at an energy useful for medical ra- intellectual property – eroding our ability to stay at the forefront diation detectors. Its six-hour half-life means that patient radiation in critical scientific and engineer fields.” does is minimized. The “m” stands for “metastable,” meaning that The letter goes on to object to the public identification of grant it lasts far longer – is closer to stable — than most gamma-emitting reviewers, whose confidentiality today allows them to evaluate isotopes. proposed research frankly and without fear of retaliation. Tc-99m is one of the many radioactive materials discovered The confidentiality of the process “has helped to foster many in the 1930s at Ernest Lawrence’s Radiation Lab in Berkeley. A seminal discoveries throughout all science, engineering, and memoir by nuclear pioneer Glenn Seaborg says the 1930s re- mathematics,” the letter claims. searchers weren’t expecting practical value when they created new Its success “depends on the willingness of qualified reviewers nuclear species. In fact, he said, they would have “scoffed at” the to be candid and critical as needed in the evaluation of research idea. History often surprised them. “Some of those that would proposals . . . without the anonymity provided in the current have been most scorned have turned out to be among the most process, many researchers would not be willing to review propos- valuable,” he said. als.” He drew from this observation a lesson that “everyone should The bill was passed by the House Committee on Oversight understand: we cannot very often predict the practical applications and Government Reform Committee on November 17, the day of basic science, but we can predict that those applications will oc- after it was introduced. Sponsor of the bill was the chair of one cur, to the enduring benefit of man.” of the committee’s subcommittees, Rep. James Lankford (R-OK.) Although Tc-99m was discovered in cyclotron research, nuclear The chair of the full committee, Darrell Issa (R-Calif.), was a reactors turned out to be more economical at producing it in com- co-sponsor.

The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 - PAGE 3

as a SEDFZ. That designation expired on January (MTC) and Association of Bay Area Govern- 10, 2010. Approval of AB 348 reinstated SEDFZ ments (ABAG) are working on a regional plan effective until January 1, 2017. in response to state legislation, AB32 and SB375. The purpose of a Safety SEDFZ is to improve AB32 calls for the reduction of Green House Primary Deadline March 9 Chabot College’s first grants developer under the traffic safety, reduce traffic injuries and fatalities Gas (GHG) emissions to 1990 levels by the The nomination period for the June 5, 2012 College’s Title III grant. on roadways by imposing higher traffic fines as year 2020 and an 80% reduction of 1990 levels Presidential Primary Election will close at 5:00 a deterrent. The City portion of Vasco Road has by 2050. SB375 links land use to transportation p.m. on Friday, March 9, 2012. In the event that Walmart Grocery Appealed experienced 2.32 collisions per million vehicle planning. an incumbent officer fails to file for re-election, Pleasanton residents, Angela Wilmes and miles as opposed to the statewide average of 1.69 According to a press release issued by the Tea the nomination period for that office is extended Linda Martin, have appealed the approval of for similar type facilities. Approximately 40 per- Party, “The outreach process was rigged from until Wednesday, March 14, 2012 for any eligible Walmart’s plans to open a grocery only store in cent of these collisions are speed related. the beginning and the public has no idea what candidate, except for the incumbent. Pleasanton. is being planned for their local communities. Nomination documents are available at the The Planning Commission will hear the appeal Regional Planning Opposed Additionally, MTC and ABAG have violated Alameda County Registrar of Voters Office, 1225 at its March 14 meeting. The East Bay TEA Party and the Tri-Val- the Brown Act public meeting rules by requir- Fallon St., Room G-1, in Oakland. Candidates The approval was authorized by the zoning ley Patriots will be joining other TEA Party ing individuals to pre-register for the meetings, identify the type of individual they were when for municipal offices should contact the respec- administrator. The determination was that the groups, along with local control and property rights advocates, to speak out in opposition to they registered, among other tactics. MTC tive City Clerk for information on obtaining proposal was consistent with the existing zoning the OneBayArea plan at the Association of Bay and ABAG hired trained facilitators to hold a nomination documents. for the site, which has been a grocery use since 1984. The site on Santa Rita Road was previously Area Governments Executive Board Meeting on minimum number of public outreach meetings; For more information, contact the Registrar March 15 in Oakland. 9 meetings (one per county) to determine the of Voters office at (510) 272-6933. occupied by a Nob Hill Market. The city council accepted the decision by the “The plan is a cookie cutter solution that fate of 9 million citizens. Facilitators contrived Local offices include 13th Congressional administrator at its Feb. 7 session. calls for high density, low income stack-and- a consensus process to manipulate attendees to District, represented by Pete Stark (D); State A Planning Commission decision could also pack housing next to mass transit in all nine Bay vote for predetermined outcomes with vague Assembly District 15, represented by Joan Bu- be appealed. In that event, the matter would go Area counties. Local jurisdictions will have to information and limited choices. This results in chanan (D); State Senate, District 7, represented to the city council for a final decision. adopt their plans or they won’t get any of these all nine bay area counties with a shared “vision” by Mark DeSaulnier (D); Alameda County Board At the Feb. 7 council meeting, proponents transportation funds. This amounts to extortion!” of high density, stack-and-pack housing next to of Supervisors District 1, represented by Scott and opponents of the plan for the neighborhood according to Heather Gass, an East Bay resident mass transit. This plan will ruin the uniqueness Haggerty, and District 4, represented by Nate grocery spoke. and East Bay TEA Party leader. of the cities within the Bay Area.” Miley; Zone 7 Flood Control, 3 seats open are Opponents cited minimum wages paid by The Metropolitan Transportation Commission held by Sandy Figuers, Dick Quigley, and Chris Walmart, and impact on other groceries and Moore. their union workers as reasons to deny the application. Electric Vehicle Stations Proponents said that a new anchor tenant Legislation that establishes how common was needed to improve business in the shopping interest developments, such as condominiums center. There was also a need for a grocery store and homeowner associations, determine where to in the area, they declared. put electric vehicle charging stations for residents passed the Senate last week and was sent to the Rock Throwers Arrested governor’s desk. The Livermore Police Department have ar- The measure, Senate Bill 880 by Senate Ma- rested five male juveniles for acts of vandalism jority Leader Ellen M. Corbett (D-San Leandro), that occured Feb. 18 in the areas of Arlene Way, follows up on previous legislation passed and Charlotte Way, Felicia Way, and Almond Avenue. signed into law last year that prohibited common During the vandalisms, the suspect(s) launched interest developments from preventing the instal- large river rocks resulting in significant property lation of electric vehicle charging stations. The damage. The damaged items include mailboxes, vehicles, and residences. original bill, Senate Bill 209, took effect Jan. 1. According to statements made by the suspects, “This legislation, along with SB 209, makes the vehicle used during the commission of the electric vehicles a practical option for more vandalisms was a 2002 Subaru Forrester. The consumers, and it helps California in its quest to suspects stated they threw the rocks while the move toward cleaner energy that is better for the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed, environment,” Corbett said. “SB 880 establishes damaging mailboxes, vehicles, and homes. a fair process for common interest developments During interviews with the suspects, they were to determine where to put charging stations in remorseful. At the time of the offense, they did common parking areas.” not realize their actions could have caused injury to others. New Chabot President The five suspects were arrested and booked The Chabot-Las Positas Community College at Juvenile Hall in San Leandro. District (CLPCCD) Board of Trustees appointed Susan Sperling, Ph.D., President of Chabot Fines Double on March 1 College. Sperling, dean of social sciences and Governor Brown’s approval of AB 348 reau- 25-year veteran administrator and educator at thorizes the Vasco Road designation as a Safety the college, becomes the ninth president in the Enhancement Double Fine Zone (SEDFZ). college’s 50-year history and was selected after County portions of Vasco Road between Dalton a national search. Sperling’s appointment was Avenue in Livermore and Walnut Boulevard in effective Feb. 22. Brentwood started Double Fine Zone enforce- During her 25-year career at Chabot College, ment in January 2012. The City portion of Vasco Sperling has served in a variety of capacities Road between I-580 and Dalton Avenue will including faculty member, faculty leader, ad- start Double Fine Zone enforcement on March ministrator and community liaison. Her many 1, 2012. positions with the college and district include In 2006, the State Legislature passed legisla- district-wide Faculty Association President and tion authorizing the designation of Vasco Road PAGE 4 - The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 Analyst Criticizes National Report EDITORIALS On National Security Laboratories An anthropologist who has many lab employees . . . that Charles Curtis, during Congres- out from corporate headquarters, studied the culture of Lawrence the Bechtel management style is sional testimony two days after rewarding paperwork measures The Perils of Micromanagement Livermore and Los Alamos deeply resented,” he wrote. the report was published. of safety over scientific produc- Over the years, many have argued passionately about weapons laboratories has criti- “One has to wonder if the After telling the House Armed tivity, widening pay differen- the morality and mission of Lawrence Livermore National cized a National Academy of report was cooked.” Services Committee “that em- tials, managerial obsession with Laboratory, which opened in 1952 with the primary goal Sciences panel for what it left Bechtel is the major for-profit ployee morale was nose-diving bonuses, corporate information of contributing to the nation’s nuclear weapons program. out of a report that found fault partner in the consortia that man- and that the Labs were in danger control in place of a culture of Some protest the Lab’s activities focusing on morality, with federal micromanagement age the two laboratories. of losing their best scientists,” academic freedom, and, in the some on politics, others on the proper role of a university of the labs. The report was issued after a they then blamed the problem case of Livermore, massive lay- in society. Hugh Gusterson, the anthro- study by the National Academy’s entirely on the federal micro- offs executed with the finesse of Today, it comes as a profound disappointment that the pologist, agreed with the Na- National Research Council at the management. Donald Trump.” future of the Livermore Laboratory is being paved not by tional Academy panel that micro- direction of Congress. This had the effect of “giving The National Academy report management at the national level Gusterson’s views have been Bechtel and the new management and subsequent testimony fit thoughtful discussion and careful policy review, nor even “is harming the labs.” published in the February 28 consortia an undeserved free “nicely with currently fashion- by the passions of protest, but by petty bureaucracy. Earlier However, he called the panel’s issue of Bulletin of Atomic Sci- pass,” Gusterson wrote. able narratives about the evils this month, a National Academy of Science panel reported logic in giving flawed manage- entists. To Gusterson, the present of government bureaucracy and that the quality of science and engineering is declining be- ment by the laboratories’ contrac- He took strong exception for-profit management system the redemptive power of private cause micromanagement by the National Nuclear Security tors “an undeserved free pass.” to comments by the two lead has introduced negative features contractors. Unfortunately, (they Administration is stifling creativity. Then Congressional “I know from conversa- authors of the National Acad- like “rotating managers in and don’t) fit so well with the facts,” testimony made the point even more strongly. Former Sandia tions and correspondence with emy report, Charles Shank and Gusterson said. director Paul Robinson called the NNSA-Labs relationship “unworkable.” Former Berkeley Lab director Charles Shank joined former Deputy Energy Secretary Charles Curtis in calling it “dysfunctional.” Former Los Alamos director Sig i-GATE iHub Names Cities to Non-profit Boards Hecker called it “stifling.” As a continued demonstration es,” said John Marchand, Mayor ships, conduct fundraising, and “We are excited by the col- Former Livermore director George Miller may have of strong municipal public-pri- of Livermore. create strategic programs. White laboration that i-GATE brings to summarized the worries most effectively, wondering “how vate partnership, the i-GATE In- Rob White, interim CEO for will also continue in his current the Davis community,” expressed much longer the national security laboratories will be able novation Hub (iHub) announced both i-GATE non-profit Boards, role as director of economic de- Rochelle Swanson, Mayor Pro to sustain their greatness” if the government continues to Tuesday that it has expanded its explained that by expanding the velopment for Livermore. Tem of Davis. “By focusing treat them like job shops. two non-profit boards, the Na- membership of the Boards to With cities from the Sacra- on the research, academic, and The nation’s leaders should treat Lawrence Livermore, tional Energy Systems Technol- include four cities as full voting mento, East Bay and Central Val- business sectors, the i-GATE Sandia and the other national security laboratories as the ogy (NEST) Commercialization members, “i-GATE has shown ley regions, i-GATE has linked consortium creates opportuni- Center and the i-GATE Devel- its commitment to working as a research, academic, financial, ties for new relationships and great scientific resources that they are, clearing away the opment Corporation, to include cohesive, regional partnership.” and business interests together advancement of technologies that tangle of petty rules that satisfy bureaucrats but do little if four mayors and their respective Appointed as interim for a pe- to accelerate innovation and cre- will draw the Sacramento and anything to promote good science or good administration. city managers from the i-GATE riod of approximately 12 months, ate connectivity for technology Easy Bay regions together.” The Laboratories and their staffs deserve better, and so do partner cities. White will actively build partner- startups. the nation and the public. The size of each Board will increase from 19 to 25 members, providing the four mayors Reconsider Recycling with voting positions and the Retiree Group Raises Pleasanton has prided itself on leading the way when it associated city managers with comes to green ideas. It was a surprise then, when the city ex-officio positions. The Board Funds For Legal Appeal expansion will become finalized opted out of mandatory recycling, the only city in Alameda The UC Livermore Retiree retirees received UC group health Orange County retirees, the Cali- County to do so. on March 30, 2012. Group that is suing to regain coverage under a succession of fornia Supreme Court rendered a The reasoning behind the decision was that they wanted Livermore and Dublin have medical coverage from the Uni- contracts that began in 1952 and decision that an implied contract to study the impact of such a program on garbage rates. already been selected by the non- versity of California has raised ended at the beginning of 2008, for benefits coverage can exist. Other cities have found that companies that provide garbage profit Boards. The remaining enough funds to proceed with when a for-profit contractor took The principle appeared valid for two cities will be selected from its appeal of a Superior Court over Laboratory management. the Livermore suit as well, giving collection services, can mostly offset any increase in cost the existing i-GATE city partners to them by selling the recyclables. judge’s decision to deny the The Retiree Group claims that Requa and the Retiree Group re- of Pleasanton, Danville, San Ra- group’s claims. the University has a legal obliga- newed grounds for optimism that Pleasanton should reconsider its decision. mon, Fremont, Tracy, Lathrop, Two months ago, the founder tion, through an implied if not an appeal is worth pursuing. West Sacramento, and Davis. of the grassroots group, Joe explicitly documented contract, The Retiree Group’s appeal “The increase in city par- Requa, expressed concern that to continue providing health care will likely be followed by the ticipation in i-GATE through its it might run short of money to to retirees even though it was no filing of a UC court brief and non-profit Boards demonstrates pay its attorneys, forcing them to longer the sole manager of the then one by the Retiree Group at- strong regional commitment to choose a less expensive and less Laboratory. torneys, according to an attorney COOL EARTH satisfactory path, such as seek- Superior Court Judge Frank (continued from page one) public-private collaboration in familiar with court proceedings. fostering technology job creation ing financial damages instead of Roesch denied the Retiree Oral arguments at the Appeals ness development for Cool Earth, sus here today.They are the next and supporting small business- medical coverge. Group’s claim last May. Court level may take place by told supervisors that he under- project. They understand the new Laboratory employees and Since then, in a case involving year’s end, he speculated. stands, “the preservation of rules that we establish will apply agricultural land is important to them, and anyone coming to Tri-Valley Conservancy” and down the line,” said Bazar. others. Bazar said later about Cool “We worked hard to find land Earth, “if we didn’t see a lack of that would not impede (agricul- significant impacts here, we’d tural preservation),” said Chen. have concerns on this one, too.” The site has not been tilled for Carson also asked about the (Opinions voiced in letters that they found in mom’s purse. mend Livermore Downtown, Inc. Fear Itself 15 years. It is not covered by a county’s vulnerability to a law published in Mailbox are those Most children are put onto mood (LDI) and their Executive Direc- Joyce and Paul Brown conservation easement or the suit from any solar operator over of the author and do not neces- altering drugs by their parents. tor, Rachael Snedecor, for taking Livermore Williamson Act, he said. approving Cool Earth before a sarily reflect the opinion of The I can’t think of a more likely the initiative to repair and repaint The only thing we have to fear The Williamson Act keeps a policy is in place. Bazar said that Independent. Letter Policy: The place for the cycle to start than Livermore’s historic train depot. is fear itself. parcel’s assessed valuation low, planning staff and the county Independent will not publish there. Most people who smoke Working with Sherwin Williams We are perplexed by the letter as long as the landowners sign an counsel’s office say there is no anonymous letters, nor will it weed, just smoke weed; some do Paints and Majestic Painters, written by Mr. Favero last week agreement that the parcel won’t legal problem. publish letters without names. so for health reasons. Most find LDI has significantly improved in which he professes to love be taken out of agricultural use. It Dick Schneider spoke for the Abusive letters may be rejected it relaxing, like a glass of wine. their corner of L Street and his gay friends and relatives and or edited. Frequent letter writers shows the landowner’s desire to Sierra Club in support of TVC. I’ve personally never enjoyed Railroad Avenue, while protect- wishes them no ill, yet he would keep the land in agriculture. He said the club is in favor of so- may have publication of their letters delayed. Letters should be marijuana. In my opinion, the ing the long-term stability of an deny them the benefits of mar- Chris Bazar, director of the lar power, but supervisors should inequities in our economy, lack important Livermore landmark. riage and equal protection under county Community Develop- wait on Cool Earth, until there is submitted by e-mail to editmail@ compuserve.com.) of access to life affirming goals, As one of LDI’s neighbors and the Constitution. ment Agency, told supervisors a policy. “We think it’s the cor- have more to do with heavy drug members, we are delighted with The right to equal protection that Cool Earth found “one of rect way to bring about public use than using marijuana. the station’s new look. under the law is not a novel con- the few parcels not in the Wil- policy,” said Schneider. Thank You His arguments about gay Working to enhance the down- Deb & Bob Cilk cept. Over the ages, the United liamson Act, and that is critical Schneider, a co-author of the marriage leading to polygamy, town through special events, Pleasanton States Supreme Court has repeat- to our view for denial of the TVC county’s open space initiative, getting married to farm animals shopping and dining promotions, appeal.” said that the application appar- Bob and I have been doing edly recognized the civil rights Chen said that the land will ently violates Measure D, in that or whatever it is that people and physical improvements has of minority groups who were the Coat and Blanket Drive since bring up, is the same old ri- been LDI’s mission for the past keep its agricultural zoning. Cool it is infrastructure. Measure D 1999. Even after 13 years, we too insular to protect themselves Earth respects the land, and will clearly said that infrastructure diculous baloney that they’ve 26 years. Our community is from the will of the majority. continue to be humbled beyond argued for years. Bigots used indeed fortunate to have such a use low-impact technology to should be provided in open space description at the generosity We owe our gratitude to these install its materials, which are at only to serve local needs. Power those arguments back when it dedicated and successful orga- judges for ending segregation in of our wonderful community. was considered indecent for the nization. the cutting edge of sustainable delivered to the grid doesn’t meet Whenever we’ve placed a call public schools, allowing inter- equipment, he said. that requirement, he said. so-called “races” to mix. Sci- racial marriage, and prohibiting for donations, we’ve been del- ence now proves that there is Supports for the solar arrays Supervisor Scott Haggerty uged with coats, blankets, warm The Diet of Lent racially restrictive neighborhood will be augured into the land. told Schneider that whether the no genetic differences between Lucas Nelson covenants. There is a word for clothing, socks, blankets, sleep- people whose skin colors or eye “The land will not change. The power is confined to Livermore ing bags, etc. Many have come Livermore this: progress. technology we put in eliminates or not, “it’s still sustainable.” He shapes are different. It all has Last Wednesday marked the The federal judges in Cali- concrete anchors. It can be au- was chairing the meeting, and fresh from the cleaners, some to do with where your ancestors have never been worn, and some beginning of Lent, the 40-day fornia have twice correctly rec- gured in, as a ground screw, and called for the motion to deny the lived in relation to the equator period preceding Easter when ognized the civil right of gays can be removed. You would not application. Nate Miley made people have donated brand new and the weather in that particular items.All of these items were do- Christians would abstain from and lesbians to marry. Apart be left with a field of concrete the motion, seconded by Wilma area and the skin adapting to the meat and dairy products in re- from the “who,” there is nothing anchors. That’s important. It has Chan. nated in the wonderful, generous amount of sun received. We are and anonymous spirit of sharing. membrance of Jesus's 40 days that makes their decisions stand been our philosophy since day Cool Earth, which is based all one race scientifically. of reflection before launching out from the plethora of cases in one,” said Chen. in Livermore, received the sup- How blessed we are to be part of I think it’s clear that children such a dynamic and thoughtful his ministry. which the right to equal protec- STAFF SAYS NO port of the Livermore Chamber are too immature to be allowed to tion has been confirmed. PRECEDENT SET of Commerce, Innovation Tri- community - recession or not, Devout Christians who still marry – ever. His mentioning of observe meatless Lent help re- Mr. Favero concludes his Supervisor Keith Carson Valley, Congressman John Ga- our neighbors still give what they the Man/Boy Love Association asked staff whether an approval ramendi, Assemblymember Joan can, and then some. duce chronic diseases, environ- letter with fears about a slip- of Cool Earth would impact the Buchanan, and Mike Clevenger, being welcomed in our society mental degradation, and animal pery slope with vile and absurd We’d like to thank you for and old codgers walking down process of drawing up a county president of Pegasus. your continued support of our abuse. In the past four decades, consequences. This was a tactic policy on solar locations and Clevenger said, “We com- the aisle with youngsters is just dozens of medical reports have that was used by the proponents collection efforts to benefit our the most bizarre notion and is only conditions. pletely support the project by "neighbors in need." Sometimes linked consumption of animal of Prop 8 in their campaign. The “That’s one of the basic issues Cool Earth. It’s a different mag- meant to once again place gays in products with elevated risk of federal judges even refer to the it does "take a village" to help the same company as those who we are grappling with. This is the nitude (than ours). You set stan- each other weather the storms, heart failure, stroke, cancer, and Prop 8 proponents’ use of “un- second project, and Green Volts dards that they agreed to. Their would prey on children – which other killer diseases. A 2007 U.N. founded fears.” and boy, does our community science and sociology has proven was first. This came when there project is smaller than ours. rise to the call. report named meat production Actions based on fear and was not a critical mass, before it There are not as many impacts as over and over again that most as the largest source of green- lack of information can have dire triggered more global issues, what we would need to address pedophiles are members of the house gases and water pollution. consequences. History is replete and decided we had to review with a larger project.” Ugly Bigotry child’s family. Usually, it’s a Undercover investigations have with examples. In this regard, Paulette Kenyon policy,” said Bazar. Dale Kaye told supervisors parent. So, why even bring up documented animals being raised we have received excellent guid- Pleasanton “Cool Earth was on the fence that Innovation Tri-Valley’s sup- that topic? Shouldn’t he be more for food under abject conditions ance from Franklin Delano Roos- (in regard to timing), but we felt port includes that of Livermore’s I guess you have no limits on worried about parents marrying of caging, crowding, depriva- evelt who said, “The only thing it was close to the end of the two national laboratories. Kaye how long a letter should be; how- their children, if he is going to tion, drugging, mutilation, and we have to fear is fear itself.” pipeline. We decided it was not said that Cool Earth was helping ever, in the case of Tony Favero, I worry about that? really fair to penalize a project to create jobs. It’s important to manhandling. wish you had. The guy just keeps It’s just sad to see such a hate- Lent offers a superb oppor- almost out of the pipeline,” said erase hurdles for green busi- on digging himself in deeper. He Terrific Column ful letter in response to the pas- tunity to honor Jesus's powerful Kay Ivins Bazar. nesses to grow. disingenuously begins his letter tor's open and loving acceptance “We are pleased to see Pega- message of compassion and love Pleasanton praising his gay “friends:” yet, of gay people who wish to share for all living beings. To stop sub- after that, he descends into the What a terrific column by the sacrament of marriage, just sidizing disease, devastation, and Carol Graham in the Independent usual hateful diatribes used by like everyone else. What good cruelty. To choose a wholesome the Glenn Beck crowds. Magazine last week. does such intolerance do for any nonviolent diet of vegetables, Too bad it can't be read by Publisher: Joan Kinney Seppala His stab at logical or scientific of us, really? Bigotry of any kind fruits, and grains and a vast array Associate Publisher: David T. Lowell thought, comparing gay marriage the entire world. Of course, (INLAND VALLEY PUBLISHING CO.) Editor: Janet Armantrout is ugly and counterproductive. of meat and dairy alternatives. there would always be those who to marijuana advancing to hard It's a diet mandated in Genesis drugs is so full of baloney that I would think it doesn't apply to The Independent is published every Thursday by Inland Valley Publishing Company, 2250 First St., Liver- Train Depot's New Look 1-29 and observed in the Garden them. But I do hope that some more, CA 94550; (925) 447-8700. Mailed at Periodical Postage Prices at the Livermore Post Office and can’t believe he even advanced additional entry office: Pleasanton, CA 94566-9998. The Independent is mailed upon request. Go to www. Len Alexander of Eden. who read it will take it to heart as independentnews.com to sign up and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The that argument. There are many Executive Director, Liver- Entering "vegetarian lent" in Independent, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550. more people who have gone cell phone use has become a huge more Valley Performing Arts your favorite search engine pro- social problem. Thank you. Advertising rates and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (925) 447-8700 straight to hard drugs using pain during regular business hours or by fax: (925) 447-0212. Center vides ample tips and recipes. Editorial information may be submitted by [email protected]. meds their doctors prescribed or I’m writing to thank and com-

The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 - PAGE 5 A Passion For The Rainforest Leads Botanist To Fight Human Diseases By Jeff Garberson and other neurological diseases. A prominent botanist with a Some 27 universities in 11 coun- passion for preserving the rain- tries work with him and his Wyo- forest and exploring medicines ming colleagues, exploring the in native cultures is helping mechanisms by which BMAA to make inroads into one of can attack neurons, fold proteins the most difficult problems in into malfunctioning shapes and medical research: understand- interfere with cell reproduction. ing and treating the neurological He considers the researchers diseases Alzheimers, Parkinsons the cream of the crop in terms of and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, research talent. They “talk daily” or ALS, better known as Lou and “meet once a year,” he told Gehrig’s disease. the Bankhead audience. On the The botanist is Paul Allan day that he spoke, he had visited Cox, whose studies of plants and Lawrence Livermore National human diets on Guam a decade Laboratory and was excited at ago have led to one of the most the possibility of being able to promising approaches to un- Paul Allen Cox do research using some of its derstanding the diseases, which sions about a rare disease that is specialized facilities, particularly afflict millions worldwide. extremely difficult to study. the Center for Accelerator Mass In 2003, Cox showed that a Interest continues to remain Spectrometry. natural neurotoxin called BMAA high, particularly because Cox However, Cox’s true passion becomes concentrated in the diets has worked indefatigably to find is still visiting other parts of the of certain Guananian villagers, cyanobacteria where elevated world and learning how different who then develop some of the ALS levels appear. cultures have developed health world’s highest rates of ALS. One example was the observa- practices and medicines from the Since then, he and research- tion that veterans returning from local environment. ers around the world have found the first Gulf War, posted to the He spoke almost reverently elevated levels of BMAA in the Middle East in 1990-91, were of visiting Ogimi, a village in brains of Alzheimer’s and ALS nearly twice as likely to become Okinawa, which appears to have patients in North America. They ALS victims as veterans who the longest-living and neuro- have identified a universal source were not posted there. logically healthiest people in the of BMAA in blue-green algae Cox traveled to the region world. More than 31 percent called cyanobacteria that are once the increased rates became of local residents are older than found nearly everywhere. Now, clear and found that cyanobac- 65, he said. One elderly person they have taken early steps to teria were plentiful in the desert after another amazed him – even explore the detailed biophysical soil. Desert dust also coated the people aged 90 and older -- with role that BMAA may be playing wings and bodies of aircraft, so ballet-like movement and flexible in causing the failure of human that mechanics were doused with joints as well as sharp, youthful motor neurons. dust while working below. thought processes. Ever one to explore native More recently, there appeared While he recognizes that cultures, Cox has even found to be ALS clusters in New Hamp- general good nutrition may be a an unusually healthy village on shire associated with living near factor, he also wonders whether the Japanese island of Okinawa certain lakes where cyanobac- the villagers have something where exceptionally long-lived teria are sometimes found. A “neuroprotective” in their diets or residents might offer clues to Dartmouth neurologist, Elijah environments. They are exposed something neurologically protec- Stommel, has taken note of to BMAA, he said, but they seem tive in the diet. the clusters but also cautioned not to die from it. Cox discussed his findings at against reaching conclusions He was unwilling to speculate Livermore’s Bankhead Theater about what caused them. on what that the protective factor last week as part of the Rae Dor- Cox has established an Insti- might be, but left the Bankhead ough Speaker’s Series. tute of Ethnobiology in Jackson audience with the tantalizing Cox is a Harvard-trained bota- Hole, Wyo., to explore ALS impression that he might be able nist who wrote his dissertation on to identify and reveal it. ethnic medicines. After his mother died of breast cancer, he moved to the Samoan Islands, where he had learned the language as a Mormon missionary, to look for possible remedies for breast cancer in indigenous medicines derived from the rainforest. While there, he studied herbal medicines prescribed by elderly healers. One in particular, derived from the bark of the native malama tree, was used against viral hepatitis. Cox suspected it might be more widely useful. His efforts in this area have led to development of prostatin, a promising AIDS drug. He also helped arrange for 20 percent of future pharmaceutical profits from use of the drug to be returned to Sa- moa, which is one of the poorer regions in the Pacific. In 1997, Time magazine named Cox one of 11 “heroes of medicine” for his contributions through botany. For his efforts to save the Samoan rain forest, he received the Goldman Environ- mental Prize, sometimes called the Nobel prize for environmental conservation. At the Bankhead, Cox’s focus was on the neurological diseases, the damaging effects of BMAA and the possibility of prevention. BMAA stands for beta-me- thylamino-L-alanine, which can over-stimulate neurons and ex- haust them so they can’t func- tion. There seems to be an issue of individual susceptibility as well as environmental exposure, Cox said, since low level BMAA exposure is universal but most people don’t get the neurological diseases. Long before Cox came on the scene, a high rate of neurological disease was known in the Cham- orro people of Guam. BMAA was suspected as a possible cause because of its presence in the Chamorro diet, which uses flour made from the roots of cycad plants. Cox, ecologist Sandra Banack and biochemist Susan Murch observed that others on Guam did not suffer the same high rates of disease found among the Chamorro in and around Umatac Village. Their investigations found that BMAA becomes concentrated 100,000 times in the food chain from the plants to fox bats, which eat cycad seeds and are considered a delicacy by the Chamorro. They also found that BMAA at highly elevated levels in the brains of Chamor- ros with the neurological disease complex. To establish a baseline of brain BMAA levels, they examined the brains of 15 deceased Canadians. To their surprise, the only two Ca- nadians with elevated BMAA had died of Alzheimers disease. Follow-up investigations produced similar results, with elevated BMAA brain levels more likely to be found in patients who died of neurological disease than those who did not. Their findings, and the suggestion that BMAA might contribute to or cause neurological disease, generated interest in the research community as well as cautions about reaching quick conclu- PAGE 6 - The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 Lab Layoff Suit Scheduled For Fall A lawsuit filed by five former in October were combined into Last month, in a news release, employees against the consor- a single case called Andrews vs Gwilliam suggested that the tium that operates Lawrence LLNS, to be heard in Superior Laboratory has not followed the Livermore National Laboratory Court in Oakland. policy of its federal sponsor, the was continued until October 1. The plaintiffs allege that the U.S. Department of Energy, with The five were among 440 laid layoffs were improper in several respect to the impact of work- off by the Laboratory in May respects, including age discrimi- force reductions on particular 2008, shortly after the consor- nation, according to Gwilliam. age groups. He cited a 2011 tium took over the big research In earlier action, the court re- memorandum by Energy Secre- facility with promises of improv- jected a blanket charge that age tary Steven Chu that discusses ing efficiency. discrimination was practiced guidelines for reductions involv- Of those laid off, 130 filed against all the plaintiffs, but the ing 50 or more employees. formal complaints with the age complaint can be pursued It was unclear how that guide- California Department of Fair specifically in the Andrews case, line would be applied in a legal Employment and Housing, ac- Gwilliam said. action over a reduction that cording to a fact sheet issued by The five plaintiffs were in occurred three years before it their attorney, Gary Gwilliam of their 50s and 60s when they were was issued. A spokesperson Oakland. The five to be heard let go. at the Laboratory said, “We do not think he (Gwilliam) will be successful under the appropriate legal standard.” In an interview earlier this BUDGET week, Gwilliam was critical (continued from page one) with fiscal reality. “While I am of the Laboratory on general Photo - Doug Jorgensen it can “to maintain stability pleased with the progress and grounds. He said, “It is unfortu- Daffodils are in full bloom on Daffodi Hill in Livermore. The blossoms can be seen from Stanley throughout the expected federal the savings from these actions, nate that the Laboratory doesn’t Boulevard. budget turmoil,” he wrote. the Lab needs to take additional step up to the plate and take re- Albright’s message was at steps for FY13 and beyond,” sponsibility” for those who were least temporary reassurance in McMillan wrote. laid off at a vulnerable age at the response to a more ominous “With labor comprising 63 start of an exceptionally severe message that was circulating at percent of the budget, a smaller economic downturn. Appeals Court Allows Lab to Los Alamos National Labora- workforce is part of the solution.” He said he has “gathered tory and that had also spread to As a result, he has submitted a 300,000 documents” as well as Continue Operating Biosafety Lab Livermore. voluntary reduction plan to the collecting formal depositions of A federal appeals court has facility with the exception of the there any proof that the LLNL Los Alamos Director Charles Laboratory’s federal sponsor top managers and reached the upheld the continued operation DOE not considering the impact BSL-3 facility is more prone or McMillan sent an email on Feb- the National Nuclear Security conclusion that the Laboratory of the Lawrence Livermore of a possible terrorist attack. attractive to terrorist theft and re- ruary 21 warning Los Alamos Agency, as required by law. had dishonestly claimed to be National Laboratory's biosafety- In September, 2009, the U.S. lease of a pathogen by an outsider staff to anticipate a voluntary He pledged to treat employees forced into layoffs by budget level 3 facility. District Court for the northern than any other BSL-3 facility," workforce reduction of 400-800 “fairly and respectfully,” with said Judge Milan Smith. "To the “in a matter of weeks rather than shortfalls. The Lab's BSL-3, which district of California decided “open and effective communica- contrary, the record reveals that months” because the laboratory tion” and “more details as soon as Those shortfalls did not tru- opened in February 2009, allows that a subsequent DOE revision LLNL is actually one of the most is facing a budget shortfall of NNSA approves the plan.” ly exist, he said. Instead, he Livermore researchers to conduct of the environmental assessment “around $300 million.” At Livermore, Director Al- charged, the real problem was experiments on a wider range of had adequately considered the heavily guarded federal facilities, Los Alamos has been cutting bright said, “The Laboratory the higher fee and added layers microorganisms than could be impact of an intentional terrorist in contrast to hundreds of rela- costs aggressively for several can remain on a sound footing if of senior management brought in worked with in the past. attack. tively unguarded BSL-3 facilities months, anticipating “significant final appropriations for FY13 are by the new for-profit contractor, The Ninth Circuit Court of In its most recent decision, the nationwide." budget uncertainties,” he said. consistent with FY12” – in other which ironically had competed Appeals issued the decision Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, The three-judge panel also However, the reductions have words, if there were no major to run the Laboratory with the Feb. 7. In an earlier ruling, the hearing an appeal from Tri-Val- found that a terrorist's theft and not been enough to keep up budget cuts. promise of more efficient man- court had previously upheld all ley Cares, agreed with the district release of lethal pathogens were agement. aspects of the U.S. Department of court verdict in a 3-0 ruling. too unlikely to be a significant “By April 2008, they had Energy's (DOE) original environ- "Nowhere in the record is danger. all the money they needed,” he mental assessment for the BSL-3 TRANSITIONAL said. (continued from page one) Kindergarten. In his January budget proposal, Governor Jerry phased in by moving the cutoff Brown called for eliminating date up one month each year until the program to save over $220 the 2014/15 school year, when million in the 2012/13 school A Cowboy Round-Up to Support the cutoff date will be Sept. 1. year. Eliminating the program Transitional Kindergarten will won’t be easy, however. The serve those students who fall in state legislature would have to Livermore High School Sports the gap between the old and new repeal Senate Bill 1381, some- By Patricia Koning section of the LHS website getting by.” football and basketball games. kindergarten cutoff dates. For the thing that most educators think On Saturday, March 10, the (http://livermorehs.schoolloop. LHS Cowboy Boosters pro- The Boosters pay for the food 2012/13 school year, that means is unlikely. Livermore High School Cow- com/). vides grants to the LHS athletic and sports teams provide the students born between Nov. 2 and To spare Districts the costs of boy Boosters Club presents a About 175 people usually programs. Cofer says that in the manpower; the two split the Dec. 2, 2007. starting a new program in another Cowboy Round-Up fundraiser attend the LHS Cowboy Boost- last two years, they have given profits 50/50. “It’s a really good Melinda Hall, director of from 6 to 11 pm at the Robert ers annual fundraiser. However, a grant to all of the sports pro- way to raise money,” says Cofer. tough fiscal year, Gov. Brown did “A team can raise $2,000 on a curriculum and special projects, make Transitional Kindergarten Livermore Community Center. Board President Suzanne Cofer grams at the school. Amounts estimates that about 83 students All proceeds will benefit sports is hoping to draw over 200 this range from a few hundred to a good night.” optional in the 2012/13 school LHS Cowboy Boosters holds a in the Livermore Valley Joint year, although the change to the programs at Livermore High year. “Now, more than ever, our few thousand dollars. Recent Unified School District will be School (LHS). sports programs need community LHS Cowboy Boosters grants monthly General Meeting on the kindergarten cutoff date will second Monday of each month eligible for Transitional Kinder- remain. Some districts, includ- Dinner includes tri-tip, BBQ support,” she says. have purchased uniforms for garten in the next school year. at 7 pm in the LHS Library. The ing San Francisco Unified, have chicken, a baked potato bar, BBQ The Livermore Valley Joint track, soccer, and basketball; nets next General Meeting will be on Statewide, an estimated 40,000 cancelled their Transitional Kin- baked beans, cole slaw, and salad Unified School District has pro- for water polo and tennis; and students will be eligible. Monday, March 12. dergarten programs, while others with dessert by Nothing Bundt vided no funding for high school bleachers and field equipment The Robert Livermore Com- “Research shows that students have made their programs contin- Cakes. The evening will also and middle school athletics pro- for baseball. who attend kindergarten readi- munity Center is located at 4444 gent on state ADA funding. include dancing, with Amos grams for the past two years. For LHS Cowboy Boosters also East Avenue, Livermore. ness programs like Transitional Farrand said the Livermore Productions spinning the music, many years, parents of athletes runs the snack shack at most Kindergarten are more likely to District is committed to Transi- raffle baskets, and live, silent, have been asked to provide do well in school and attend col- tional Kindergarten. “We believe and dessert auctions. Auction donations to make up shortfalls lege,” said Hall. “This program this is the right thing to do for our items include vacation home in funding, called a “fair share” supports the concept of giving students,” she declared. rentals, hotel stays, restaurant donation. Those amounts have our youngest learners the gift Other local school districts gift certificates, wine tasting, a risen in recent years due to the of time.” are still deciding about Transi- snowboard, San Francisco Gi- lack of District funding. A Transitional Kindergar- tional Kindergarten. The Dublin ants tickets, and golf. Fundraising by individual ten Planning team led by Kim Unified School District’s Board Tickets are $45; $30 for LHS sports teams now goes to just run- Farrand, a teacher on special of Education voted on imple- coaches and staff. Purchase a ning programs, not extras as in assignment, is working on the menting their program, called table with seating for eight for years past. “Last year the football curriculum and other details Developmental Kindergarten, $360 and LHS Cowboy Boost- team raised about $12,000, which of the program. The team also on Tuesday, Feb. 28. Pleasanton ers will donate $45 to the sport helped make ends meet,” says includes kindergarten teachers, Unified School District trustees of choice. To order tickets, visit Cofer. “I know other programs two elementary school princi- have yet to make a decision. the LHS office or the Boosters are operating in the red or barely pals, and early learning special- ists from Las Positas College and the Laboratory Employees Children’s Center. The proposed name is SPROUTS for Students Participating in Readiness Op- portunities Using Themes in Science. The District plans to offer four transitional kindergarten classes, one in each of the Dis- trict’s four geographic quadrants: Croce/Altamont, Jackson/Arroyo Seco, Marylin/Junction/Rancho, and Smith/Sunset. Credentialed teachers will teach Transitional Kindergarten. “We are considering pairing a classroom teacher with an educational aide to keep the student to teacher ratio lower and better meet the needs of these students,” explained Farrand. The focus of the Transitional Kindergarten program will be on science, technology, engineering, art, and math or STEAM. “We firmly believe that initial learning in these areas will strengthen the foundation for our youngest students and prepare them for the California Common Core Stan- dards and their 13-year academic career in the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District,” stated Hall. Transitional Kindergarten will be funded through state ADA money so running the program won’t pose additional costs to the District, although developing curriculum and planning the program will take staff time. “We won’t be educating any more students next year than we are this year,” noted Livermore Board of Education trustee Anne White. There has been confusion about the fate of Transitional The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 - PAGE 7

March 31. Each player pays a $25 refundable truly inspiring,” says Paul Holocher, Head volunteer fee. Sibling discounts apply. With Coach Cal Poly Soccer Program. “With three the help of local businesses and residents, Norcal Regional Academy League teams LJFL has a limited number of scholarships and several younger teams in development, for needy families. Applications are available we’re really looking forward to watching the at www.LJFL.org and must be submitted player growth and new talent emerge from by March 31. West Coast Soccer Club.” admin@West- For those interested in coaching, ap- CoastSoccerClub.com For the love of the plications are available at www.LJFL.org. game WWW.WestCoastSoccerClub.com LJFL provides training for all coaches. No The college prep program is designed to experience is necessary. deliver the core knowledge and confidence Registration will close when the league players need during the recruiting process. It reaches 12 teams. No players are ever cut. helps both players and parents know what to All players play the entire game on offense expect and how to be ahead of the process. or defense. Players are not limited to a The next course will take place on few plays per game. Everyone plays the March 7, 2012 at 7pm at the Livermore entire game. Public Library. For additional information, interested For more information about the different parents should visit: www.LJFL.org. Presi- soccer programs and the college preparation dent and Vice-President of LJFL are Rico program offered by West Coast Soccer, please Richardson and Matt Archer. visit www.westcoastsoccerclub.com.

Community Day at A’s Livermore community can support Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District (LVJUSD) athletic programs by attending the Oakland A’s vs. Cleveland Indi- ans game on Sunday, April 22. The National Anthem will be performed by Livermore’s own, Granada High Junior, Braden Sweeney. Family packages, field level seats, tailgate BBQ, parking, t-shirts and more are available. Sponsor packages are available and include sponsor name on event signage and t-shirt. The order deadline is March 31, 2012. The Chargers and Cowboys squared off in playoff action More information can be found during last year's Pleasanton Junior Football League season. at the LVJUSD website (www.livermoreschools.com) or by emailing communityrela- Registration is now underway for the upcoming season. See [email protected]. sports notes for details. Pleasanton Seahawks swim team members take time out for a Bocce Kits for Rent meal following the Cabrillo Senior Meet. For the results of the The Livermore Area Recreation and Park District is making bocce ball kits available meet, see sports notes. for rent to the public. Bocce ball kits can be checked out for a Pleasanton Jr. Football Back) & Kyle Kenny (50 Breast). week at a time from the Robert Livermore Pleasanton Junior Football League Junior: Kat Cory (dropped time in 5 Community Center. The kits are available at (PJFL) is now taking registration for the events); Miranda Heckman (BTs: 50/200 the front counter from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 2012 Contact Football, Flag Football and free); Bella Hernandez (first two JOs: 200 Monday through Friday. Cheerleading season. PJFL offers contact free/100 back); Grace Kim ( JOs: 50 free/100 Rental for one week is $20, plus a $40 football and cheerleading for boys and girls breast); Lara Serban (dropped in 200 free/100 refundable deposit by credit card or cash – a in the 2nd through 8th grades, as well as flag breast/100 IM); Justin Tsai (first Far Western total of $60. The $40 deposit is refundable if football for boys and girls in the 2nd through 100 back); Tanaya Gondhalekar (100% equipment is returned in good condition. Kits 12th grades. Everyone plays in PJFL. There BTs); Laurel Heckman and Christy Neufeld are rented on a first-come, first-served basis; are no tryouts and there are no cuts. ( 3 BTs; Paulina Umansky (first 11-12 JO reservations are not available in advance. Contact Football registration includes 100 breast); Emma Valentine (3 BTs); Nja Rental of a bocce ball kit does not guarantee a uniform and all necessary equipment and Zumiga ( JO, 200 fly); Niklas Bengtsson a bocce ball court will be available. contact players practice 3 times per week (4 BTs); Kevin Gao (100% BTs); Paarsa The Robert Livermore Community Cen- beginning in early August and play games Heidari (BT, 50 back); Alex Kuang (first ter is located at 4444 East Ave., Livermore. on Saturday’s at the Pleasanton Sports Park JO, 200 fly); Will Rose (first 11-12 JO, 200 Bothwell Park is located at 2466 Eighth beginning in early September. back); Ben Sproul (6 new best swims); Tim St., Livermore. For more information, call Flag Football registration includes a Yao (first 11-12 Far Western 100 breast); 925-373-5700. jersey and all necessary equipment and flag Matt Li (5 best swims). players practice 1 time a week beginning in Senior Highlights include: Rachel Bench mid-August and play games on Saturday’s 200 IM, Hannah Bergh 200 Back, Maxime College Prep at Hart Middle School beginning in mid- Rooney 500 Free (4:38) and Moriah Simonds West Coast Soccer Club has launched a September. 500 Free (5:01). Both Maxime and Moriah college preparation program for high school Cheer registration includes a uniform and won that event. players. The program is designed to inform training and cheerleaders practice two times Senior Elite: Eva Chung (BTs: 100 free, and help soccer players who have aspirations per week beginning in late June and cheer 100 back); Cayla Jetter (BTs: 1650 free/400 to play at the collegiate level. It provides an on Saturday’s at the Pleasanton Sports Park IM); Celina Li (BT 200 back); Tony Shen in-depth step-by-step process for players to beginning in early September. (BTs: 200 back/400 IM); Nick Silverthorn get placed in college soccer programs at the For more details and to register a (BTs: 50 free/200 breast); Marissa Bergh junior college (JC), NAIA, Division 3, Divi- player visit PJFL.com. Follow PJFL on (BT 400 IM); Marissa Brown (BT 100 free); sion 2, and ultimately Division 1 levels. All Facebook at Facebook.com/PleasantonJu- Chris Dourov (BT: 50 free/100 back); Nick players, boys and girls, age 13 and above, niorFootballLeague. Johnston (BT 200 fly); James Thompson can participate. (BT 200 IM). “The Livermore Valley has produced Seahawks Compete extremely talented soccer players with the Another busy weekend of competition potential to take their game to the next level. was on hand for the Pleasanton Seahawks Jr. Football Expands I’m very proud and excited about the college February 19-20. The age group swimmers Due to its success over its five-year preparation program we’ve put together this attended the WCAB C/B/A+ Meet in Walnut existence and the support of LARPD and the year,” says Troy Dayak, founder of West Creek and the Senior/Senior Elite swimmers high school football programs, Livermore Coast Soccer Club. “West Coast Soccer has attended the Cabrillo Senior Meet in Santa Junior Football League (LJFL) is expanding attracted and produced some of the brightest Cruz. Many best times and new cuts were to include all children aged 7 through 14 (as of soccer players in the area, both on and off the achieved. August 31, 2012.) Football participants will field. When players join West Coast Soccer, Pre Novice: Alcina Kenny (100% best learn the fundamentals of contact football they can expect advanced-placement style times (BTS: 50 free/back, 25 fly) & swam in a safe and positive environment and play training that will help them stand out and a beautiful, legal butterfly race; Adora Do regardless of talent level or ability. Cheer get noticed by college recruiters.” (BTs 2 of 3 events: 50 back/25 breast) participants will learn the fundamentals, This year, West Coast Soccer began and had legal finishes with no DQs; Adam cheer at games and compete locally. All offering small-group classroom sessions, Valentine (BTs 3 of 5 races: 50 free/ back games will be played in Livermore at the as well as, individual counseling for players & 25 back) & is turning into quite the back- high schools. All practices will take place interested in taking their soccer game to the stroker; Dominick Wonosaputra (BTs 4 of 5 in Livermore. The season begins on August next level. The program is designed to deliver events: 50 free/back, 25 back/breast) & took 1 and concludes in early November. age- and grade-appropriate information with nearly 10 seconds off 25 breast; Jonathan Online registration is open at www. a clear next-steps process. Wu (BTs 25 breast taking over 2 seconds LJFL.org. “Troy Dayak and his coaching staff’s off his best time). There is an early registration discount commitment to developing young players to Novice I: Vaishnavi Rao (4 LTBS includ- of $50. Registration costs increase after play soccer at their highest potential level is ing a LBT B time); Vasuki Rao (4 LTBs, including 3 LBT B times & 4th B time); Sofia Stiles (4 LBTs); Andrew Li (LTB in 100 free & won USA Swimming IM Ready Award at the meet). Intermediate I: Cloe Gosselin (100% BTs 6:6); Erik Holmes (new B time & 2 top out of 8 finishes); Aditya Mehta (new B time, 2 top out of 8 finishes). Intermediate II: Olivia Kim (took 9th place in “All Time Top 10” 8&U 50 fly); Mattias Bengtsson (new “A” 25 fly); Max Cory (new “A” 25 breast); Lexi Barrera (new “B” times: 100 free/breast, 50 back); Devin Cox (100% best times). Pre Junior: New B-times: Samantha Snow, Sophia Bueche, Catharine Ren, Chris Lam, Lily Hu; New A-times: Duhita Gond- halekar, Nicole Stiles, Nick Wonosaputra, Sruthi Mukkamala; New JO Cuts: Vickie Luo (50 Fly) & Alex Ren (100 Free, 200 Free, 100 IM); New Far Western Cuts: Kyra Black (100 PAGE 8 - The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 THEATER (continued from page one) at a slightly higher ticket price over the year. Last season, the sca. Highlights among the other in support of LVPAC’s overall LVPAC Presents series achieved scheduled shows are blues singer operations, were also two of the a remarkable 80 percent capacity Lizz Wright, a rising star of the fastest to sell out. October’s Fifth overall and reached audiences jazz world who appears on March Anniversary Gala with blues from an increasingly wider geo- 21st, Aquila Theater’s inspired guitarist Robert Cray and this graphic base. production of the Oscar Wilde month’s Winter Gala featuring Audience growth has also al- comedy The Importance of Be- The Music of ABBA/Arrival lowed the Bankhead Theater to ing Earnest on March 28th, and from Sweden both sold out well attract a greater range of artists. legendary singer Rita Coolidge in advance of the event. Tickets Increased to nearly 50 events this on March 30th. Resident com- for the final fundraising event of season, the 2011-2012 LVPAC pany Del Valle Fine Arts brings the season, Almost Elton John Presents series includes such the busy month to a close with and the Rocket Band, on Satur- first-time guests as the innova- the Atlantic Brass Quintet on day, May 5th, are selling quickly tive dance company MOMIX Saturday, March 31st. Tickets as well. and singer/songwriter Al Stewart for these and all other scheduled “The Bankhead Theater has last fall and upcoming evenings shows in the 2011-2012 season emerged as a significant cultural with comedian Paula Poundstone are on sale now at the Bankhead resource for the Tri-Valley area and legendary rock icon Edgar Theater ticket office or online at and beyond,” says LVPAC’s Ex- Winter. The planned 2000-seat www.bankheadtheater.org. ecutive Director Len Alexander. regional theater will further The Bankhead Theater is “As awareness of the theater has broaden the spectrum of larger located at 2400 First Street in grown and the quality of the en- name acts and full-scale enter- Downtown Livermore. The ticket tertainment has earned attendees’ tainment that can be presented. office is open Tuesday through confidence, we’ve been able to March starts with the con- Saturday from 12:00 noon to offer a greater variety of events, temporary Latino dance of Luna 6:00 p.m. On performance days better reflecting the community’s Negra Dance Theater on March the ticket office remains open cultural diversity and broad 1st, followed a week later by the through intermission. interests.” Not every show is ex- opening of resident company To purchase tickets call 925- pected to sell out; programming Livermore Valley Opera’s new 373-6800 or visit www.bank- is designed to achieve a balance production of Puccini’s To- headtheater.org HOTEL (continued from page one) a four story, 192 room hotel with munity Development Director, massing of the proposed hotel as a restaurant, bar, meeting rooms, explained that the size, type soon as possible. He wanted the fitness center, pool and spa. The and look of the hotel would be council involved in the actual de- hotel will resemble a cluster of part of the negotiation process. sign before it had gone too far. “It buildings. The terms and conditions of the is important to involve us in what Councilmember Laureen agreement would come back to it looks like,” he declared. Turner requested a clarification the council for approval. The negotiations are sched- on who owns the property. She Uranga explained that the uled over a period of four months. Photo - Doug Jorgensen also said she was concerned site was previously owned by That allows time for further de- The cast of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland includes Jeff Zolfarelli as the King of Hearts and about the size of the structure and the Redevelopment Agency. It sign development and plans for a Riley Greenough as the Queen of Hearts. The Civic Arts Stage Company production plays March aesthetics, asking if the council was transferred to the city earlier finance package to proceed. The 2 and 3 at 7:30 p.m. and March 3 and 4 at 2 p.m. at the Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., could make changes in the pro- this year. Uranga stated, “It is in council would have two more Pleasanton. For tickets or information, go to www.firehousearts.org. posal when it comes before it. jeopardy. The ownership will be looks at a design before it would Eric Uranga, Assistant Com- reviewed by an oversight com- be finalized. mittee, which will determine In the application, Sonnen- whether the land should be dis- blick writes, “Our vision is to READING posed of or if it can be held by develop a first class luxury hotel (continued from page one) the city.” on a property that we believe is Councilmember Stewart Gary the finest site in the entire City of classroom teachers to identify school curriculum,” says Turner. asked that the city take a look at Livermore. Because it is also the students who will benefit most “I think it says a lot about the all of the rooms and conference gateway to the downtown area, it from the program. Marylin staff. They are enlight- space that would be needed in the must make an architectural state- “PAWS to Read creates one ened, imaginative, innovative, downtown. If not all of the rooms ment, instead of having a plain more opportunity for students to and courageous.” and meeting space required could vanilla facade.” have positive emotional attach- The kids aren’t concerned not be accommodate on the pro- According to Sonnenblick, the ments to books and reading,” says about the research data or fund- posed site, would the city need to hotel would draw visitors from Marylin Avenue reading special- ing dollars. They just care about provide a nearby parcel. the surrounding businesses and ist Sharon Dragoo. “As a staff the dogs. “I like how the dogs Gary also wanted the city to industries in the region, includ- working tirelessly at improving just listen to you,” says Luis, a have a say in who would oper- ing the wine industry. Proposed our literacy instruction, we cre- third grader. “And you can pet ate the hotel. He suggested that are street level retail and/or res- ate those opportunities when we them.” there are more boutique operators taurant space. The five potential can, and support them when they PAWS to Read is currently available than those listed by operators for the Livermore hotel come our way. We welcome our offered at the library’s Rincon Sonnenblick. “Let’s go fishing,” are Hilton, Marriott, Interconti- new reading friends, the won- Branch from 3 to 4 pm on Fridays he stated. nental Hotel Group, Hyatt and derful dogs and their even more through March 30. For more Councilmember Bob Woener Starwood. Artist, Sally Haig, has an exhibit of her work currently at Wente wonderful handlers. Gail Turner information and to register, call also wanted to take a look at the Vineyards Estate Tasting Room, 5565 Tesla Road in Livermore. was instrumental in making this the Rincon Branch Library at It will be available for viewing through March 30 daily from happen.” 925-373-5540. 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. An artist’s reception will be held from 1 Turner observed that the kids to 3 p.m. on Sun., March 4. The public is invited. There is no seem much more settled when reading to the dogs. “When I admission charge. Sally works with images, old photos, pieces tutor, a lot of them are fidgety, of paintings from another era, acrylic paint and gel medium, but with the dogs they are so and likes having layers of texture and text in her paintings. She focused,” she says. tells a story with each painting. She takes a personal interest or A 2010 study by the UC Davis subject, researches the topic, and then creates her stories on Veterinary School found that stu- canvas or paper. She can start a painting with one idea, such dents participating in the All Ears as a woman’s face and layers of butterflies or a question to be Reading Program, developed by answered, such as; where did country music come from? Or Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue what was life like for Elizabeth I? For more information please Foundation, saw gains in reading visit www.sallyhaig.com fluency between 12 and 30%. At a time of shrinking school budgets, it’s no small thing that PAWS to Read is completely volunteer driven and poses no additional cost to the Livermore Valley Joint Unified School Library Accepting Entries District. “This is the first time therapy for Teen Art Exposition dogs have been used to this extent and as a continuous part of the The Livermore Public Library work will be judged and ribbons invites teens to participate in the awarded. 2012 Teen Art Exposition and The community is invited to Contest. attend the Artist’s Reception on The Friends of the Livermore Tuesday, April 24, 2012 from Public Library are sponsoring 6:30pm to 7:30pm in Commu- this unique opportunity for teens nity Room A of the Civic Center to share their artistic talent with Library. local artists and the citizens of For more information and to Livermore. access entry forms, please visit Livermore residents in the TEEN SPACE on the Livermore sixth through twelfth grades are Public Library’s website at www. encouraged to submit a piece livermorelibrary.net or contact of original art. Works eligible Sandy at 373-5500 ext. 5583. for this exhibit are limited to visual media including painting, sculpture, photography, textiles and collage. Entries will be accepted Thursday, March 1, 2012, through Friday, March 30, 2012, at the Civic Center Library. The first five entrants will each receive a $10.00 gift certificate generously donated by Way Up Art and Frame in Livermore. Teen artwork will be on display from April 2 through April 29, 2012 in the Civic Center Library Art Gallery during the library’s regular hours. Artwork will be shown as space allows. On Thursday, April 5, 2012, art- The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 - PAGE 9

Job Search Seminars The Livermore Public Library pm, Thursday, March 29, Shasta the Children’s Storytime Room of seminar is designed for those who fee is $5 per person or $8 for both Pleasanton VFW Post 6298 and offers both passport application and climbing guide Chris Carr has made the Civic Center Library, 1188 South are new to Medicare and for those tours taken on the same day. Tour American Legion Post 237 will host a photo services. For more informa- more than 145 successful ascents of Livermore Avenue. For further infor- who are considering replacing their tickets can be purchased in the Gift workshop on resume writing on Tues., tion or to schedule an appointment, Mount Shasta. He will show the major mation, please contact Youth Services current Medicare insurance plans. Shoppe. Children ages 2 and under March 13 at Las Positas College in please visit the Library’s website routes, including Avalanche Gulch, at (925) 373-5504, or consult the web- Topics covered in the class include the are free. Livermore. at www.livermorelibrary.net or call Casaval Ridge, Sargeant’s Ridge, site: www.livermorelibrary.net. following: basic Medicare benefits, For more information about Forest The workshop will be held start- 925-373-5508. Hotlum Glacier, the West Face, and Medicare alphabet soup and what Home Farms Historic Park call (925) ing at 4 p.m. in building 2400, room more. Learn what it takes to make A-B-C-D means, Medicare supple- 973-3284 or visit www.SanRamon. 2411A. a safe and successful summit climb Donate Prom Dresses mental (medigap) plans, Medicare ca.gov. Forest Home Farms Historic Outdoor Programs from someone who has climbed, With prom season right around Advantage plans: HMO and PPO, Park is located at 19953 San Ramon E-mail Bill Oliver oliver4@llnl. Climbing Mount Whitney: The the corner, The Princess Project is gov with name and phone number if skied, and guided on the mountain prescription drug plans, and coor- Valley Blvd., just south of Pine Valley Hikers’ Trail: 7 pm–8:30 pm, Thurs- for 18 years. Register for this free encouraging women across the Bay dination with other health insurance Road in San Ramon. planning to attend. This provides a day, March 1, slides and information presentation at www.rei.com/dublin, Area to raid their closets and give their head count and mailing list to keep including employer plans, retirement on climbing this highest peak in the a seat will be held until the scheduled old prom, bridesmaid or other formal plans, VA, and COBRA participants posted on any changes contiguous U.S. via the Whitney start time. Free, open to the public, dresses a good home. The Princess that may arise. It also allows an op- Space is limited and reservations Marsh Creek Hike Portal Trail. Come find out about REI, 7099 Amador Plaza Road, in Project is a San Francisco based non- are required. Please call 800.284.2878 Take a guided hike on new Marsh portunity to forward a parking pass permits, physical training, gear Dublin. Customer Service Depart- profit that provides new and nearly Creek-VI on March 25 from 10 a.m. for that day. or visit Find an Event on www.Our- and clothing, altitude sickness and ment for more information about new prom dresses and accessories SanRamonHospital.com to register to noon. It will be on a first registered basis. weather considerations, fishing for these programs, (925) 828-9826. to high school girls who could not Join Scott Hein, Save Mount If there are more than 20 registrants California golden trout, and more. for the seminar on March 3. otherwise afford them. Since The HICAP presents the Welcome to Diablo Board Member and nature we will hold a second set of work- Register for this free presentation at Princess Project was founded in photographer, on a tour of three small shops. Confirmation is required by www.rei.com/dublin, a seat will be Education Nominations Medicare class at locations through- 2002, over 18,000 girls have received out Contra Costa County. For a sched- adjacent properties meant to protect Friday March 9. held until the scheduled start time. The Pleasanton PTA Council is dresses and accessories through dress segments of Marsh Creek, the second At the conclusion of the resume Free, open to the public, REI, 7099 now accepting nominations for the ule of other classes, visit http://www. nd giveaway events - all for free. cchicap.org/wtm.html. longest and least disturbed creek in writing workshop, the student will Amador Plaza Road, in Dublin. Cus- 22 annual Excellence in Education Those interested in donating Contra Costa County. They include be able to: Describe the purpose of tomer Service Department for more Awards. The Pleasanton community dresses and accessories to The Prin- the newly announced purchase, a resume; recognize resume formats; information about these programs, is encouraged to nominate a special cess Project, they can drop off their Fun on the Farm Marsh Creek-VI, along with neigh- describe the main components of a (925) 828-9826. teacher, administrator, or staff mem- dresses and accessories now through Forest Home Farms Historic Park boring Marsh Creek-IV where habitat resume; develop accomplishment POLES for Hiking & Outdoor ber of the Pleasanton Unified School Saturday, March 3rd, at several East and the Glass House Museum host restoration has been underway for the statements; define applicable mili- Exercise: 7 pm–8:30 pm, Thursday, District. Bay locations: Fun on the Farm from 10am to 2pm past three years, and Marsh Creek-II, tary/work skills (Knowledge/skill March 8, Learn how to use poles to Individuals should be nominated Bar Method San Ramon, 3211 the second Saturday of each month. which connects the other properties based and transferable/soft skills); engage your whole body while hik- based on personal merit and exempla- Crow Canyon Place, Suite C, San Each month features special free by a cattle tunnel underneath Marsh draft a cover letter; and assemble a ing or walking. Jayah Faye Paley, ry contributions to public education Ramon; G.R. Doodlebug, 3626 activities: Creek Road. business portfolio. creator of the award-winning DVD in Pleasanton. Nomination forms and Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville; March 10, 2012: “National Plant a The new property is the second The college is located at 3000 “POLES for Hiking, Trekking & eligibility requirements are available Walking” will demonstrate how to Stoneridge Mall, One Stonerige Mall Flower Day” and “Vintage Vehicles”- volcanic plug dome and the seventh Campus Hill Drive, Livermore. on the Pleasanton PTA Council web- Road, Pleasanton. This month the City will present two small parcel we’ve protected in the expand hiking or walking horizons. site at www.pleasantonpta.org. Chance to practice walking with top The need is for dresses of all themes. past year, and is located at the mouth Nomination forms and required lengths, sizes, fabrics and colors. The Celebrate National Plant a Flower of Dark Canyon, east of Clayton. Passport Day quality poles. Register for this free nomination letters must be received The Livermore Public Library presentation at www.rei.com/dublin, dresses should be current, in excellent Day with a visit to the organic garden. Densely vegetated yet highly vis- by Friday, March 16, 2012 at 4:00 condition and be dry-cleaned. Acces- Visitors will be able to plant a flower ible from Marsh Creek Road, Marsh is hosting a special passport event a seat will be held until the scheduled p.m. A public ceremony for the at the Civic Center Library at 1188 start time. Free, open to the public, sories are also accepted accessories seed to take home. Creek-VI is a “twin” of the nearby honorees will be held on Monday, (but no shoes, please). Additional Car enthusiasts will be able to volcanic extrusion preserved last South Livermore Avenue on Satur- REI, 7099 Amador Plaza Road, in May 21, 2012 at Trinity Lutheran day, March 10, from 10:00 a.m. until Dublin. Customer Service Depart- information and guidelines can be take a ride back in time with a vin- year, and includes two interesting Church. found at www.princessproject.org. tage vehicles display. From 10:30am houses. The two domes are part of a 3:00 p.m.. The Library is joining the ment for more information about For more information contact Department of State in celebrating these programs, (925) 828-9826. to 1:00pm, the Bay Area Horseless complex of unusual volcanics in the Adrienne Herz at 925-485-9401 or Carriage Car Club will be on-site with Marsh Creek - Morgan Territory area Passport Day in the USA 2012, a Lightweight Backpacking Basics: [email protected]. national passport acceptance and 7 pm–8:30 pm, Thursday, March 22, Medicare Seminar vehicles that date from 1915 (or even which support rare species such as the San Ramon Regional Medical earlier!). View 1928-1931 Model A’s endemic Contra Costa manzanita and outreach event to provide passport expert Mike Dibrell will provide Center is hosting a free commu- information to U.S. citizens and to excellent tips on lightweight back- Baby Storytimes exhibited by the Diablo A’s organiza- Mount Diablo fairy lantern. nity seminar, Welcome to Medicare, tion from 10:00am to noon. Forest The tour is less than a mile in accept passport applications. packing techniques. Included are Livermore Public Library presents Saturday, March 3, from 10 a.m. to U.S. citizens must present a valid shelters, backpacks, food choices, and special story times for “pre-walkers.” Home Farms’ tractor volunteers will length. Heavy rain cancels. Space fuel efficiency. Register for this free 12:30 p.m. The seminar will be held also have restored tractors and ‘hit or is limited to 50 participants. Spaces passport book when entering or re- These 20-minute programs are for in the South Conference Room in the entering the United States by air. U.S. presentation at www.rei.com/dublin, you and your baby to bond through miss’ engines on display. fill quickly. a seat will be held until the scheduled South Building located on the hospital Tours of the restored Victorian Meet at the Park-N-Ride lot in citizens entering the United States books, songs, and gentle tickles. Plan campus at 7777 Norris Canyon Road, from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean start time. Free, open to the public, to stay after storytime and visit with Glass House Museum will be offered Clayton - call for directions. Wear REI, 7099 Amador Plaza Road, in San Ramon. at 10am, 11am, 12pm and 1pm and sturdy shoes and bring plenty of and Bermuda at land borders and sea other moms/dads and babies. Diane Whaley from HICAP ports of entry must present a passport Dublin. Customer Service Depart- These babies-only programs are tours of Forest Home Farms Historic water. ment for more information about (Health Insurance Counseling and Park, including the tractor museum, RSVP to Save Mount Diablo at book, passport card, or other travel free of charge and take place every Advocacy Program), a program of the documents approved by the U.S. these programs, (925) 828-9826. Tuesday, at 11 a.m., from March 20 at 11am and 1pm. Each tour lasts (925) 947-3535. Climbing Mount Shasta: Tips for Department of Aging in Contra Costa approximately 45 minutes and the government. through April 24, 2012. County, will present the seminar. The the Novice and the Expert: 7 pm–8:30 All programs will take place in

Wayne R. Woodruff many cous- Jane Sandoval 24, 2012. He is survived by his (Robin). He is the loving grand- Wayne R. Woodruff, retired ins, nieces, Marjorie (Marge) Jane San- James Marzoline wife, Tina, his children, Michael father of Raquel, Caroline, Justin, physicist and avid mountaineer, n e p h e w s doval passed away peacefully James Marzoline, native and Jannine, 3 grandchildren, Jack, Andrew and Cate. died suddenly December 18, a n d g o d - on Saturday, January 14, 2012. Bay Area resident, passed away Brionana, Sierra and Clayton, He became a member of the 2011. He was 80. c h i l d r e n . Her beloved husband, Gerald peacefully from a year long battle his mother, Sheri Alexander, his Knights of Columbus in 1960. He was born in Upland, Cali- Diane was (Jerry) was by her side. She was with pancreatic cancer on Sat- brother, Daniel Alexander and He was a vocal advocate of UAW fornia and graduated from the predeceased 72 years old. urday, February 18, 2012 at his sisters Dian Turner, Deborah Local 6000. He was a longtime University of California in June by her lov- S h e home in Livermore, CA. Brooks, and Dena Rosenthal plus supporter of the University of 1953. The following Monday, ing husband was born James is survived by his only many nieces and nephews. Michigan football program. he went to work at the Radiation F r a n k i n in Fossil, daughter Charlet Davis, his Dennis was born in San Diego, A funeral mass will be held Lab, now known as Lawrence November Wyoming last surviving sibling Eleanor CA. He graduated high school in March 2, 2012 at St. Michael Livermore National Laboratory. 2011. to Alfred Huxler, and cousins, nieces and Corona, CA and attended Cal Church in Livermore, CA. He participated in most of the Diane grew up in Newark and R e e v e s nephews. Poly University. He owned his In lieu of flowers, a memorial atmospheric tests in the Pacific, graduated from Notre Dame High and Nellie own business in Livermore, CA fund in memory of Donald has was later named test group direc- School and San Jose State Uni- L a y l a n d Robert “Aaron” Brown before moving to Cedar Creek been established at the Alzheim- tor for the Nevada Test Site, and versity. She earned her teaching o n D e c . 8/29/72 – 2/25/12 six years ago. er’s Foundation of America, then was off-site director for a credential and taught first grade 8 , 1 9 3 9 . Resident of Livermore Services will be held Friday, 866-232-8484, or charity of the number of Plowshare events. and kindergarten for twelve When she Aaron was born in Livermore March 2 at Providence Funeral donor’s choice. Meanwhile, he received a Master years and remained a teacher was seven, and attended Granada High Home, 2079 Hwy 71 East in of Science degree in physics from at heart. She enjoyed her home the family School. Hegraduated from Long Bastrop, TX at 5:30 p.m. Cal State Hayward. in Sunol with Frank and her ac- moved to Nampa, Idaho. Marge Beach State University. He A long time Sierra Club mem- tive part in that community. She was the youngest of six sisters was an avid Donald Walter Hramiec ber, he led club outings in the was a “mother” to many, with and one brother, who have all volleyball Donald, 76, died of heart and Sierra, Washington Cascades, her door and heart always open. passed. At the age of 17, her fam- p l a y e r , lung complications on February Maroon Bells in Colorado and She was a devout member of St. ily moved to Gerlach, NY, where golfer and 26, 2012 with his wife and chil- the Austrian and Italian Alps Augustine’s Catholic Church. she attended high school and met skier and he dren at his and private treks in Tibet and She loved going to the beach, ski- her husband, Jerry in her junior was a Mas- side. He Nepal. For many years he was ing and traveling in their motor year. After graduating, she and ter Mason was born the foreign trips chairman for the home as well as spending time Jerry were married and had three in the Los M a r c h National Outings Committee. He at their cabin in Pinecrest. She children, Trina Voelker, Oakley, C e r r i t o s 1 , 1 9 3 5 also taught a climbing class for was a devoted wife, daughter, CA; Jerry Sandoval, Oakley, CA; Lodge in i n H a m - the Sierra Club San Francisco mother, grandmother and friend. and Leah Sandoval, Manteca, S o u t h e r n t r a m c k , Chapter rock climbing session. She will be deeply missed by all CA. There are five grandchildren, California. Michigan. As a skier, he competed regularly who knew and loved her. Jason Brown, Kyle Voelker, He will H e i s and won medals in his age group A Funeral Mass was celebrat- Jared Voelker, Kylee Flecken- always be remembered for his s u r v i v e d in NASTAR events. ed at St. Augustine’s Catholic stein, Sarah Sandoval and one ability to make people laugh, his by Eliza- Interested in the perform- Church in Pleasanton. Burial great granddaughter, Maylee smile and his charming person- beth, his ing arts, shortly after he retired was at St. Michael’s Cemetery Brown. They all were the love ality. He had a zest for life and wife of 49 from LLNL in 1991, he joined in Livermore. of her life. loved all animals. years, and three children Alex BRAVO, the volunteer organiza- Arrangements by Callaghan In 1965, she moved to Liver- He is survived by his mother (Denise), Clare (Matt) and Peter tion for the San Francisco Ballet. Mortuary. more where Gerald worked as a Kay, father Charlie, sister Lara He was president of BRAVO fireman for 31 years at Lawrence and nephew Chase and two cous- and Associate Trustee of the San Helen Young Harville Livermore National Laboratory ins Jessica and Dax from Texas. Francisco Ballet Association Resident of Livermore and and they raised their three chil- May he rest in Peace! from 1999 until 2003. He helped then resident of Campbell, CA dren. Marge and Gerald were A Visitation will be held on create an on-line system for re- 3/15/1918 – 2/13/2012 married for 52 years. Marge was Saturday, March 3 at 4 p.m. with cruiting and assigning volunteers Helen was a long-time piano an avid bowler and loved the a Funeral Service to begin at 4:30 to chaperone student dancers teacher, library volunteer at St. outdoors. She enjoyed gardening, p.m. at Callaghan Mortuary, 3833 backstage during rehearsals and Lucy School, then Friend of the camping and boating. She was East Avenue, Livermore, CA. performances of Nutcracker. He Campbell Library, St. Lucy Altar very active in the Little League Donations can be made to the also performed supernumerary Society stalwart as well as loving Association and often completed SPCA in Aaron’s memory. roles in some of the SFB’s story mother, grandmother and great in firemen musters competitions, ballets. grandmother. Her husband Doug but most of all she absolutely He is survived by his wife Dennis Cole Alexander died in 2007 after 65 years of adored her children and grand- Dennis Cole Alexander, age Laureen, niece Linda Bond, happy marriage. Their children, children. Up until the time she 56, passed away Friday, February nephews Michael and Paul Ham- Jim, Kathy and Mark, grand- became ill, she never missed a mons and Charlton and Kevin children, Fred, Anne-Laure, and sporting event, holiday, birthday Woodruff. Patrick, and great grandchildren or any school activity. She will Valentin and Alexandre will miss truly be missed by all who knew them both. and loved her. Diane Mae Fries Family and friends were in- A celebration of life will be Resident of Sunol Diane Mae Fries, 78, of Sunol, vited to a Memorial Mass at St. held at 2 p.m. on March 9 at Cal- California, passed away on Feb- Lucy Church in Campbell on laghan Mortuary in Livermore. ruary 21, 2012. She was born in Feb. 28. A Reception at Bellar- Newark, California on October 1, mine College Preparatory in San 1933, the only child of Fred and Jose followed. In lieu of flowers, Emily Rieder. She is survived by her family requests donations to her daughters Lynnette McDon- Heifer.org or Catholic charities ald (Frank) and Lori Konecny in her honor. (Dave); her granddaughters Marjorie (Marge) Claire and Sarah and her cousin Norma Rezendes; as well as PAGE 10 - The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 Mythbusters Entertain, Educate STATE OF CITY (continued from page one)

Students at Dublin High School efforts, Oracle is a stable an- Phase I of the Bernal Commu- The Staples Ranch develop- By Carol Graham interest at the open house, which equipment and software to ensure chor in the Pleasanton business nity Park was recently completed. ment will yield new retail uses. Mythbusters’ Adam Savage featured 20 Demonstration Sta- that students are learning on tools community; some of the space It features a lighted little league The East Side Specific Plan will and Kari Byron must be used to tions, including DHS’s Gael they may use in their career,” said vacated by PeopleSoft created baseball field. Funding options set the stage for future develop- it by now. As two of the hosts Force Robotics, San Jose State lead teacher Eugene Chou. an opportunity for Kaiser Per- are being considered for future ment in that portion of the com- of The Discovery Channel’s Engineering Ambassadors and Dublin School District’s Da- manente to expand in Pleasanton. park phases that will be designed munity. Focus won’t be limited to popular TV show, their presence UC Berkeley College of Engi- vid Haubert, stated, “We are “We ultimately got Dave Duffield using an adopted “grand park” new and current activities. Work regularly arouses a high level of neering. “Adam and Kari arrived committed to our STEM program (founder of PeopleSoft) back concept. Kottinger Creek was related to historic preservation interest, enlivened by a touch of early, before the event started, – Science, Technology, Engi- alarm, wherever they go. so they could meet with the neering and Mathematics. The too, through Workday, his new restored. The Marilyn Murphy and hospitality will further so- On February 22, the pair students at the stations privately MythBusters event hits right in Pleasanton-based company. The Kane Trail opened, as well as the lidify the Downtown. Following captivated a 1,000-person audi- – which the students loved,” said the center of the bulls eye for us. company is being watched as the first segment of the Iron Horse through on our Climate Action ence as they answered students’ Morehead. We could never buy publicity next big IPO in the tech indus- Trail in Pleasanton. Plan will result in energy changes questions and shared humorous Sophomore Mehdi Khairalla, this good.” try,” declared Hosterman. Hosterman said, “Social me- in the community, including LED behind-the-scenes anecdotes at dressed in a black suit and tie, Morehead agreed. “This event She thanked the city council dia has changed the way that we street lights and more solar sys- Dublin High School’s (DHAS) dark Wayfarer sunglasses and was a huge shot in the arm for the and various commissioners for communicate. There is Cam- tems. Demands for City services, Engineering Academy Open sneakers, used a remote control STEM program. The feedback their efforts. paign Finance Reporting so there such as library, youth sports, House. to maneuver R8M1 – a robot he was positive across the board. We Hosterman continued, “As a is transparency and the public can senior programs, including trans- “Do you consider what you and several friends created in had a perfect storm of everything result of a shared vision, over view campaign contributions.” portation, and overall community do science or just determined three days - through the crowd. working: the weather, the traffic, the past eight years Pleasanton When it comes to the econ- enrichment will continue to grow. curiosity?” asked event modera- “We’d hoped to build a robot that the enthusiasm of the volunteers has seen some dramatic improve- omy, there’s evidence that the These needs will be met with a tor James Morehead. would hand off questions to Mr. and the audience – and how en- ments that have made the city local economy is on a slight range of programs and services Byron feigned surprise. Morehead,” he said. tertaining Kari and Adam are in more appealing to residents, busi- uptick. In the private sector, the that are consistent with commu- “Aren’t they the same thing?” Although the popular Myth- person. Everyone saw how cool nesses, and visitors. At our very city is seeing modest growth and nity expectations. she asked. Busters robot Blendo did not and fun science can be.” heartbeat, Main Street, we’ve a very slow recovery with the Hosterman in closing, stated, Since 2003, MythBusters’ make an appearance at the event, Many students asked about seen renovations and upgrades emergence of new businesses, “I would like to say that it has hosts Savage and Jamie Hyne- Savage did speak about the the MythBusters’ childhood to historic buildings. The city development and commercial been my greatest pleasure to man have set out to test the valid- combat robot he and Hyneman dreams. “I’d always wanted to be invested $5 million dollars in leases. Commercial vacancies serve as your Mayor for the past ity of hundreds of urban legends, created for 1995’s Robot Wars. a working artist, a sculptor,” said the renovation of the Veterans were down from a year ago and 8 years. We have been through myths and rumors. Many of them “Jamie wanted to build a robot Byron, who joined the production Memorial Building.” now stand at 18.5%. The new a lot and learned a lot together. involve firearms, explosions and that no one else was thinking in 2003 as part of the Build Team. collisions, including an infamous about,” said Savage. “That’s “My dream job found me.” There have been many chang- Clorox innovation campus is Thank you for giving me this cannonball mishap last Decem- actually one of Jamie’s primary Savage said that the example es elsewhere in the retail com- under construction. That trans- remarkable opportunity.” ber that sent a cantaloupe-sized, modes of thinking, ‘What can I set by his parents gave him confi- munity as well, including some action marked the largest office 30-pound projectile bouncing do that no one else is thinking dence to pursue his own goals. “I big management turnovers at lease transaction in Alameda and out of the Dublin bomb range about?’ Which means half of his wanted to be a designer for Lego the Stoneridge Shopping Center. Contra Costa counties between and into a nearby residential ideas are so harebrained you fear - the coolest toy ever invented. I In 2008, the center was acquired August of 2010 and August of neighborhood, causing property for his sanity. The other half are had cities of Legos in my room by the Simon Property Group. It 2011. Also signing leases in 2011 damage but no injuries. so brilliant, you fear for yours.” until I discovered girls at like, is thriving with new tenants and were Advantage Sales and Mar- 'Free to Be' “I just want to let you know Constructed from an upside 20,” he said. “I wanted to work patrons. keting, MegaPath Networks, and, right off the bat that we aren’t down wok spinning 75 miles per on Star Wars. I thought about a lot Traffic is an issue said Hoster- at the end of 2011, Pacific Office Awards and setting anything on fire tonight,” hour, Blendo proved to be too of different things I wanted to do. man. “The city’s location at the Automation announced that it Savage told the lively crowd. much for his opponents. “His The best part about my parents’ vortex of two major interstate would be moving to Pleasanton Fundraiser Set Based in San Francisco, Myth- matches typically lasted five encouragement was that I felt freeways means that regional from Alameda. The Pleasanton Soul Shoppe will host its first Busters has filmed more than 50 seconds,” said Savage. “It went like any of them were possible. I changes bring change for us. Gateway Shopping Center on annual “Free to Be” Awards and episodes in and around Dublin. like this: Blendo enters the arena, could actually make a living do- There is now an 11-mile carpool Bernal Avenue opened. Fundraiser on March 3, 2012 in “This is like our second shop,” tries to steer – which Blendo was ing something I really like.” lane on eastbound I-580 from Local home values have re- Pleasanton. Elementary schools said Savage. not very good at, but it doesn’t Perhaps the question most Hacienda Drive in Pleasanton to mained stable within the context that have filmed short bullying Morehead, parent of a DHS matter. Opponent enters arena, frequently asked the guests was, Greenville Road in Livermore of the overall California real es- prevention videos will receive student and member of the En- touches Blendo. Opponent com- “What can we look forward to to relieve gridlock on the second tate market. As a result, property cash prizes to support them in gineering and Design Academy, pletely decimated.” when the show begins its new most traveled freeway in the Bay tax revenues were fixed in 2011 their efforts to be a safer and presented questions students After two fights that resulted season in March?” Area. We’re seeing progress on at about $50 million. Sales tax more peaceful school commu- submitted over the past weeks. in his opponents’ parts flinging “Our kickoff episode is called the State Route 84 Improvement revenues continue to expand and nity. The public is invited to “Have you ever regretted doing into the audience, Blendo was Duct Tape Island,” said Savage. come and vote for their favorite an experiment or been too afraid considered too hazardous to “We attempt to survive, thrive project that is so critical to our totaled $18.5 million last year. city.” The national unemployment video, and raise funds for further to do one?” he asked. continue but was awarded co- and get off an island using noth- anti-bullying programs. “I regretted Chinese water champion status in exchange for ing but duct tape. We built and When it comes to public rate in January of this year was safety, the city joined 38 other 8.3%, which is being touted as an The “Free to Be” event will torture before we even did it,” withdrawing from the competi- attempted to escape on a 21-foot take place on Saturday, March agencies in the East Bay Re- improvement over 2011. State- laughed Byron. “I thought it tion. outrigger canoe made of duct 3, 2012 from 10:30 a.m. to was a terrible idea, but I was “Yeah!” said Savage, nod- tape.” gional Communications System wide, the unemployment rate 1:00 p.m. at Pleasanton Middle pretty new to the show and I ding sagely. “That’s the way it’s Byron said she looks forward Authority to work together to was 11.1% in December. Here in School, 5001 Case Ave., Pleas- was like, ‘All right, you must done.” to the episode testing a Chinese develop a radio communication Pleasanton, it was 5.2%. anton. Reservations are available know what you’re doing.’ Then Tickets to the open house had Fire Dragon – a two-stage rocket system that ensures complete and An agreement was reached at soulshoppe.com. Admission I thought, ‘Wait a minute. If we been snatched up hours after with a booster that eventually total communication interoper- with the Pleasanton police of- is free. confirm this, wouldn’t it be . . . being offered. The audience, burns out after igniting a number ability for agencies in Contra ficers union that includes all The “Free to Be” event will torture?’” consisting largely of students and of smaller arrows that are shot Costa and Alameda counties in officers paying the full employee feature the video finalists, an- Another student asked, “You their families, also held represen- out of the front of the missile the event of an emergency. share of their retirement costs. nouncements of the winners and th don’t really cover ghosts or the tatives from California’s 7 Sen- shaped like an open-mouthed Hosterman talked about the The 2010-11 budget also includes a special performance from the paranormal on the show. Why?” ate District and State Assembly dragon’s head. parks and public facilities built a new $1 million dollar Public band Utah Girl performing its “You can’t test the negative,” District 18, the City of Dublin, Savage added, “We’re driving during her time in office. The Employees Retirement System new single “Free to Be.” esco. answered Savage. “All you’ve the Alameda County Office of out to the middle of the Mojave Amador Theater was renovated. Stabilization Fund, to help pay Founded in 2001 and based in proved if you go looking for Education, East Bay Regional Dessert to test it.” A newly designed and expanded down our unfunded liability. the San Francisco Bay area, Soul ghosts and don’t find them is Parks District, the Dublin Cham- “Yes,” said Bryon, gravely. 24-acre Val Vista Community Hosterman commented that Shoppe travels the country to that either they don’t exist or ber of Commerce and the United “Far, far from here.” Park was opened as was Al- the great American statesman bring its message to elementary that you just don’t know how to States Army Combat Support After the event, Savage said, viso Adobe Community Park, a Ben Franklin once said, “When schools. Soul Shoppe has helped find them.” Training Center. “I love the enthusiasm of our 75,000 students through its work- Bryan added with a smile, Lawrence Livermore Na- younger fans. They are so ener- seven-acre historical park. The you’re finished changing, you’re Firehouse Arts Center celebrated finished.” shops and other resources to sup- “But we have been testing spon- tional Laboratory presented a getic, it makes public speaking port schools to be safe and caring taneous combustion for the last donation of $10,000 to the En- a pleasure. I only wish we could its first anniversary and serves “Well, we’re not finished yet as an economic engine for our in Pleasanton. So what is next for places where kids learn and go 10 years.” gineering and Design Academy. have talked longer.” home happy. V Robots were of particular “Our courses use state-of-the-art vibrant downtown. Pleasanton,” she asked. No Controversy, As Board Clears Planned Parenthood Counseling for LPC Contraceptive services and from one faculty member while “The services that we are A bonus for low-income stu- importance for testing for STDs or a demonstration on campus. counseling will be provided by she was putting fliers on cars, providing are already provided dents in the Friday service is to avoid contracting them. Staff said that the district’s Planned Parenthood on Fridays she felt that the momentum on (Mondays through Thursdays) that they won’t have to pay out Wilding-Clore said that she insurer said the district is fully at Las Positas College. the board was for bringing in by the student health service. of their pockets for lab work, was angry to find a flier on her covered for any liability that The Chabot-Las Positas Com- the Friday services by Planned The only difference is that we which can cost from $45 to $54. car that showed an aborted fetus. could ensue. As for any demon- munity College Board voted Parenthood. will bring in a microscope, which Planned Parenthood is quali- She said that the point of having strations, the usual rules for any unanimously at its meeting Feb. Redmond, a nurse who for- helps the ability to diagnose fied to provide that service free contraception counseling is to demonstration on campus would 21 to sign a contract with Planned merly taught English at a com- (diseases),” said McNichol. The to patients who are covered by avoid unplanned pregnancies, be true. Security would see to it Parenthood to provide services. munity college, had objected microscope will also be used the Medi-Cal or by Family PACT which would eliminate any con- that students are not bothered in Although Pleasanton resident that the values of a community rest of the week by student health (Planning Access Care and Treat- classes or on the campus. college should not be associated sideration of an abortion. Kathy Redmond tried to make services, so it adds something to ment), a state program. Also at the meeting, the presi- Trustee Marshall Mitzman of people aware of the forthcoming with Planned Parenthood. She LPC’s efforts at no cost to student STUDENTS SPEAK UP Hayward asked for staff to report decision by leafletting cars at also was concerned that the col- dent of the Associated Students of health services, she said. FOR THE SERVICE LPC, Amir Salehzadeh, said that back in six or eight weeks to see LPC, there was no opposition lege might be sued, for example, On Fridays there are fewer from any audience member to the if RU 486 were prescribed, and a At the college board meeting, the organization backs the con- how the new service is going. He classes, so the service has not student Shellee Wilding-Clore tract, and feels “it would greatly also wants to obtain a summary decision at the meeting. woman died from taking it. been offered. Redmond told The Indepen- However, Donna McNichol, urged the board to approve the improve student life. It would of other Bay Area colleges that The LPC budget won’t be contract. She said that she cir- provide service that is costly now, are using Planned Parenthood dent later that she was not at the director of expansion for Planned paying anything for the Friday meeting, because her main goal Parenthood Mar Monte in San culated a petition, obtaining 218 and it would be free.” on their campuses. He had no was simply to tell people about Jose, said that RU486 is not pre- service. Planned Parenthood names in little more than three In the board discussion, trust- objection to the LPC contract, but it. Also, judging by the recep- scribed by Planned Parenthood will cover its costs from student hours on campus. She cited ees had questions about liability wants more information as part of tion she said that she received counselors. payments. statistics that emphasized the of the district in case of a lawsuit due diligence for monitoring.

LEGAL NOTICES ing business as: Flynn Road CORPORATION to call an attorney right away. escrito en esta corte y hacer cumpia con los requisitos telephone number of plaintiff’s owner(s): Hamid Sultan Baloch, CEO Ranches, 11995 So. Flynn If you do not know an at- que se entregue una copia para obtener sevicios legales attorney, or plaintiff without Michele Juliana Burkett, 16 This statement was filed with FOR INFORMATION Rd, Livermore, CA 94551, NOTICE! You have been torney, you may want to call al demandante. Una carta gratuitos de un programa de an attorney, is: Fawn Dr, Livermore, CA the County Clerk of Alameda PLACING LEGAL is hereby registered by the sued. The court may decide an attorney referral service. o una llamada telefonica no servicios legales sin fines de (El nombre, la direccion y 94550 on January 27, 2012. Expires NOTICES following owner(s): against you without your be- If you cannot afford an at- lo protegen. Su respuesta lucro. Puede encontrar estos el numero de telefono del This business is conducted by January 27, 2017. Call 925-243-8000 Paul James Fagliano, 4435 ing heard unless you respond torney, you may be eligible por escrito tiene que estar grupos sin fines de lucro en el abogado del demandante, o an Individual The Independent Legal No. First Street #341, Livermore, within 30 days. Read the for free legal services from a en formato legal correcto sitio web de California Legal del demandante que no tiene The registrant began to trans- 3180. Published February 9, FICTITIOUS BUSINESS CA 94551 information below. nonprofit legal services pro- si desea que procesen su Services, (www.lawhelpcali- abogado, es): act business under the ficti- 16, 23, March 1, 2012. NAME STATEMENT This business is conducted by You have 30 CALENDAR gram. You can locate these caso en lacorte. Es posible fornia.org), en el Centro de JEFFREY FLETTERICK tious business name(s) listed FILE NO. 460836 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS an Individual DAYS after this summons and nonprofit groups at the Cali- que haya un formulario que Ayuda de las Cortes de Cali- SBN 270847 above on 12/28/2011. NAME STATEMENT The following person(s) doing The registrant began to trans- legal papers are served on fornia Legal Services Web usted pueda usar para su fornia, (www.sucorte.ca.gov) LAW OFFICES OF JEFFREY Signature of Registrants:s/: business as: Livermore Ford, FILE NO. 460105 act business under the ficti- you to file a written response site (www.lawhelpcalifornia. respuesta. Puede encontrar o poniendose en contacto FLETTERICK Michele Juliana Burkett The following person(s) doing 2266 Kitty Hawk Rd, Liver- tious business name(s) listed at this court and have a copy org), the California Courts On- estos formularios de la corte con la corte o el colegio de 4354 TOWN CENTER BLVD, This statement was filed with more, CA 94551, is hereby business as: XO Pandora above on 1/25/12. served on the plaintiff. A letter line Self-Help Center (www. y mas informacion en el Cen- abogados locales. AVISO: Ste 114 #106 the County Clerk of Alameda Online Broadcasting, 3107 registered by the following Signature of Registrants:s/: or phone call will not protect courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or tro de Ayuda de las Cortes Por ley, la corte tiene derecho EL DORADO HILLS, CA on January 11, 2012. Expires owner(s): Independence Drive, Liver- Paul Fagliano you. Your written response by contacting your local court de California (www.sucorte. a reclamar las cuotas y los 95762 January 11, 2017. more, CA 94551, is hereby Livermore Auto Group, Inc, This statement was filed with must be in a proper legal or county bar association. ca.gov), en la biblioteca de costos exentos por imponer (916)933-8641 The Independent Legal No. 2266 Kitty Hawk Rd, Liver- registered by the following the County Clerk of Alameda form if you want the court to NOTE: The court has a statu- leyes de su condado o en un gravamen sobre cualquier (916)941-3913 fax 3179. Published February 9, owner(s): more, CA 94551 on January 25, 2012. Expires hear your case. There may tory lien for waived fees and la corte que le quede mas recuperacion de $10,000 o 16, 23, March 1, 2012. This business is conducted by (1)Jacob Stansky, 5177 January 25, 2017. be a court form that you can costs on any settlement or cerca. Si no puede pagar mas de valor recibida me- DATE: (Fecha): JUL 22, FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Peony Drive, Livermore, CA a Corporation The Independent Legal No. use for your response. You arbitration award of $10,000 la cuota de presentacion, diante un acuerdo o una 2011 The registrant began to trans- NAME STATEMENT 94551 (2)Jarrod Anders, 3177. Published February 9, can find these court forms or more in a civil case. The pida al secretario de la corte concesion de arbitraje en un Clerk (Secretario) FILE NO. 460854 6960 Reno Drive, Arvada, act business under the ficti- 16, 23, March 1, 2012. and more information at the court’s lien must be paid que le de un formulario de caso de derecho civil. Tiene J. DE JESUS tious business name(s) listed The following person(s) doing CO 80002 California Courts Online Self- before the court will dismiss exencion de pago de cuotas. que pagar el gravamen de la By /s/: This business is conducted by above on 7/5/2005. SUMMONS business as: REALTYWORLD help Center (www.courtinfo. the case, as the person sued Si no presenta su respuesta corte antes de que la corte Deputy (Adjunto) Co-partners Signature of Registrants:s/: (CITACION JUDICIAL) - STARS, 11501 Dublin Blvd CASE NO. RG11587151 ca.gov/selfhelp), your county under the fictitious name of a tiempo, puede perder el pueda desechar el caso. J. DE JESUS Ste. 200, Dublin, CA 94568, The registrant began to trans- Jay Gill, President law library, or the courthouse (specify). caso por incumplimiento y act business under the ficti- This statement was filed with is hereby registered by the NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: nearest you. If you cannot pay !AVISO! Lo han demanda- la corte le podra quitar su The name and address of The Independent Legal No. following owner(s): tious business name(s) listed the County Clerk of Alameda above on 11/1/2011. the filing fee, ask the court do. Si no responde dentro de sueldo, dinero y bienes sin the court is: 3178. Published February 9, Leading Stars, Inc., 10221 on January 27, 2012. Expires (AVISO AL DEMANDO): Signature of Registrants:s/: KWAKU A. DANSO, and clerk for a fee waiver form. If 30 dias, la corte puede decidir mas advertencia. (El nombre y direccion de la 16, 23, March 1, 2012. Meyer Ct., Stockton, CA January 27, 2017. you do not file your response en su contra sin escuchar su Hay otros requisitos corte es): Jacob Stansky / Co-owner The Independent Legal No. DOES 1 to 10 INCLUSIVE FICTITIOUS BUSINESS 95209 This statement was filed with on time, you may lose the version. Lea la informacion a legales. Es recomendable SUPERIOR COURT OF NAME STATEMENT This business is conducted by 3176. Published February 9, case by default, and your continuacion. que llame a un abogado in- CALIFORNIA the County Clerk of Alameda 16, 23, March 1, 2012. YOU ARE BEING SUED BY FILE NO. 460108 a Corporation on January 11, 2012. Expires PLAINTIFF: wages, money, and property Tien 30 DIAS DE CAL- mediatamente. Si no conoce COUNTY OF ALAMEDA The following person(s) doing The registrant began to trans- may be taken without further ENDARIO despues de que a un abogado, puede llamar 5672 STONERIDGE DR January 11, 2017. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO business as: Rock Candy act business under the ficti- The Independent Legal No. warning from the court. le entreguen esta citacion a un servicio de remision a NAME STATEMENT EL DEMANDANTE): PLEASANTON, CA 94588 Cakes, 16 Fawn Dr, Liver- tious business name(s) listed 3181. Published February There are other legal y papeles legales para pre- abogados. Si no puede pagar FILE NO. 460693 INVESTMENT RETRIEV- more, CA 94550, is hereby above on N/A. 16, 23, March 1, 8, 2012. The following person(s) do- ERS, INC. A CALIFORNIA requirements. You may want sentar una respuesta por a un abogado, es posible que The name, address, and registered by the following Signature of Registrants:s/: The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 - PAGE 11

NOTICE OF APPLICATION ing Services, 1020 Ventura the petition in the following EMPLOYMENT 127) LOST/ FOUND requires that contractors in- Ave, Livermore, CA 94551, TO newspaper of general circu- FOUND clude their license numbers is hereby registered by the 65) HELP WANTED SELL ALCOHOLIC lation, printed in this county. Small, male, black & white on all advertising. Check your BEVERAGES following owner(s): The Independent JANITOR / FLOOR TECH contractor’s status at www. Edward Gonsalves, 1020 CHIHUAHUA (tuxedo) Date of Filing Application: Dated: February 15, 2012 Evening Shift. Must have found in Livermore near cslb.ca.gov or 800-321-CSLB January 13, 2012 Ventura Ave, Livermore, CA /s/: Winifred Y. Smith own transportation and (2752). Unlicensed persons 94551 Rincon/Olivina. Looking for To Whom It May Concern: Judge of the Superior Court clean driving record. taking jobs less than $500 This business is conducted by his home! Please contact The Names(s) of the The Independent Legal No. must state in their adver- an Individual (925)245-0595 Theresa (925)918-3028 Applicant(s) is/are: 3193. tisements that they are not The registrant began to trans- 56) ADULT CARE or theresa.angelcare@ Fat Chance Entertainment, act business under the ficti- Published February 23, March yahoo.com licensed by the Contractors Inc. tious business name(s) listed 1, 8, 15, 2012. Independent Contractors State License Board.” The applicants listed above above on N/A. ANIMALS Wanted, Senior Home REAL ESTATE are applying to the Depart- Signature of Registrants:s/: Health Care. Must have ex- LOST ment of Alcoholic Beverage Ed Gonsalves 2) CATS/ DOGS perience. Senior Solutions, Red Poinsettia Clip Inland Valley Publishing Earring Co. Control to sell alcoholic bev- This statement was filed with ADOPT A DOG OR CAT, for Inc 925-443-310 Lost downtown Livermore, erages at: the County Clerk of Alameda adoption information contact Client Code:04126-00001 160) BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Friday 12/16. If found, 2300 FIRST STREET on February 2, 2012. Expires Valley Humane Society at Re: Legal Notice for of out of area Bay Area Housing STE 120 February 2, 2017. 925 426-8656. BE WARY please call (925)447-1762 Classified Ads LIVERMORE, CA 94550- The Independent Legal No. companies. Check with the The Federal Fair Housing 3153 3188. Published February Adopt a new best friend: local Better Business Bureau Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Type of license(s) Applied 16, 23, March 1, 8, 2012. TVAR, the Tri-Valley Ani- before you send money or NOTICES/ANNOUNCEMENTS Act of 1964, and state law Market Showing Signs mal Rescue, offers animals for: fees. Read and understand FICTITIOUS BUSINESS for adoption every Saturday 155) NOTICES prohibit advertisements for 47 - On-Sale General Eat- NAME STATEMENT any contracts before you sign. housing and employment and Sunday, excluding most Shop around for rates. TO PLACE A ing Place FILE NO. 461497 holidays. On Saturdays from that contain any preference, Department of Alcoholic CLASSIFIED AD Of Improvement The following person(s) do- 9:30 am to 1:00 pm, dogs are MERCHANDISE limitation or discrimination Beverage Control ing business as: Cal State By Kelly DeYoreo available at the Pleasanton 115) ESTATE/ GARAGE/ call 925-243-8000 based on protected classes, 1515 Clay St. Ste 2208 Smogs, 3985 First Street, Farmers Market at W. An- including race, color, religion, The housing market continues to show some signs of improve- Suite F, Livermore, CA YARD SALES “NOTICE TO READERS: Oakland, CA 94612 gela and First Streets. Two sex, handicap, familial status ment. The number of Americans who signed contracts to buy homes (510) 622-4970 94551, is hereby registered 60’s Trea- California law requires that locations will showcase cats ESTATE SALE or national origin. IVPC does The Independent Legal No. by the following owner(s): only: Petsmart in Dublin from sures plus new items: contractors taking jobs that rose in January to the highest level in nearly two years, supporting not knowingly accept any 3182. Publish February 16, Hardeep S. Sanghera, 4998 12:00 to 4:00 and the Pet Glassware, Furniture, total $500 or more (labor the view that the housing market is gradually coming back. 23, March 1, 2012. Moorcroft Cir, Stockton, CA Extreme in Livermore from Sewing, Beads & bead and/or materials) be licensed advertisements that are in The National Association of Realtors said Monday that its index 95206 12:00 to 4:00. On Sundays, by the Contractors State Li- violation of the law. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS string supplies, Linens. of sales agreements rose 2 percent last month to a reading of 97. This business is conducted by cats are available at Petsmart Hartman studio piano, cense Board. State law also NAME STATEMENT an Individual in Dublin from 1:00 to 4:00, Tools, Kitchen. Also, W That’s the highest reading since April 2010, the last month that FILE NO. 461540 The registrant began to trans- and Pet Extreme in Livermore The following person(s) doing act business under the ficti- med clothes, Silver jew- buyers could qualify for a federal home-buying tax credit and the from 12:00 to 4:00. For more elry, Amana refrigerator business as: Automax, 3765 tious business name(s) listed information, call Terry at last time the reading was above 100. & more. First Street, Livermore, CA above on 2/10/2012. (925) 487-7279 or visit our Friday & Saturday Contract signings typically indicate where the housing mar- 94551, is hereby registered by Signature of Registrants:s/: website at www.tvar.org ket is headed. There’s a one-month to two-month lag between a the following owner(s): Hardeep Singh Sanghera March 2 & 3 This statement was filed with FERAL CAT FOUNDATION 8:00AM-4:00PM signed contract and a completed deal. The gain in signed contracts Fazli Auto Sales Inc, 1006 Cat & kitten adoptions now the County Clerk of Alameda CASH ONLY Natwick Way, Brentwood, at the new Livermore Petco supports some other evidence of improvement in the housing CA 94513 on February 10, 2012. Expires Mayview Way February 10, 2017. on Saturdays from 10:00AM market. This business is conducted by Livermore The Independent Legal No. to 2:30PM. We have many a Corporation Follow signs from Holmes According to DataQuick, a San Diego-based real estate news 3189. Published February adorable, tame kittens that The registrant began to trans- and analysis company, the number of Bay Area home sales rose last 16, 23, March 1, 8, 2012. have been tested for FIV & & Catalina. act business under the ficti- FELV, altered & vaccinated. Benefit LAS Guild. month to the highest level for the month of January in five years, tious business name(s) listed FICTITIOUS BUSINESS We also have adult cats & boosted by lower prices, ultra-low mortgage rates, a modestly above on N/A. NAME STATEMENT ranch cats for adoption. Signature of Registrants:s/: FILE NO. 460725 improved economy and a record level of investor purchases. Farhad Fazli, CEO The following person(s) doing Last month absentee buyers – mostly investors – purchased This statement was filed with business as: East Bay Rabbit a record 25.4 percent of all Bay Area homes sold, up from 22.8 the County Clerk of Alameda Rescue, 1945 Fifth Street, on February 14, 2012. Expires Livermore, CA 94550, is percent a year earlier. February 14, 2017. hereby registered by the fol- The median price paid for a Bay Area home, however, fell The Independent Legal No. lowing owner(s): year-over-year for the 16th consecutive month as distressed sales 3183. Published February Joan Wegner, 1945 Fifth 16, 23, March 1, 8, 2012. – short sales and foreclosures - rose to the highest level since Street, Livermore, CA 94550 early last year. Distressed sales made up 51.9 percent of all Bay FICTITIOUS BUSINESS This business is conducted by NAME STATEMENT an Individual Area sales. FILE NO. 460312 The registrant began to trans- A total of 5,479 new and resale houses and condos sold in the The following person(s) doing act business under the ficti- nine-county Bay Area in January. That was up 10.3 percent from business as: Rockstar Audio, tious business name(s) listed 4,966 in January, 2011. The year-over-year sales increase was the 3111 Independence Drive above on 12/2009. Unit A, Livermore, CA 94551, Signature of Registrants:s/: seventh in a row, according to DataQuick. is hereby registered by the Joan Wegner Alameda County has significantly outperformed the region, with following owner(s): Scott Wood, 1046 Sunrise This statement was filed with a sales volume (number of homes sold) a whopping 23.9 percent Ridge Drive, Lafayette, CA the County Clerk of Alameda higher than January, 2011. 94549 on January 25, 2012. Expires The median price paid for all new and resale houses and condos This business is conducted by January 25, 2017. an Individual The Independent Legal No. sold in the Bay Area last month was $326,000. That was down The registrant began to trans- 3190. Published February 2.8 percent from a revised $335,500 in December, and down 3.6 act business under the ficti- 16, 23, March 1, 8, 2012. percent from $338,000 in January 2011. Last month’s median was tious business name(s) listed ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE the lowest since April 2009, when it was $304,000. above on 1/17/2012. FOR CHANGE OF NAME The median’s low point of the current real estate cycle was Signature of Registrants:s/: Case No. HG12617224 Scott Wood SUPERIOR COURT OF $290,000 in March 2009. The peak was $665,000 in June/July This statement was filed with CALIFORNIA, 2007. To some degree, the decline in median price reflected a shift the County Clerk of Alameda COUNTY OF ALAMEDA in the sales mix (in other words, a greater number of lower-priced on January 17, 2012. Expires TO ALL INTERESTED January 17, 2017. PERSONS: homes are selling, compared to higher-priced homes.) The Independent Legal No. 1.Petitioner: “While it’s clear prices have edged lower in some areas recently, 3184. Published February Amy Burchett filed a petition last month’s Bay Area median of just $326,000 is a reflection of 16, 23, March 1, 8, 2012. with this court for a decree how skewed the market has become toward distressed, lower-cost FICTITIOUS BUSINESS changing names as follows: Present Name: NAME STATEMENT properties. In some areas, the higher-end sales have slowed in re- Molly Rose Wilson FILE NO. 460352 Proposed Name: cent months as many struggle to qualify for loans and others just The following person(s) doing Molly Rose Burchett sit tight,” said John Walsh, DataQuick president. business as: Vapor Ware- 2.THE COURT ORDERS In many local cities, low inventory continues to present a chal- house, 7697 Hawthorn Ave, that Livermore, CA 94550, is all persons interested in this lenge for would-be buyers. The number of available homes for sale hereby registered by the fol- matter appear before this at this time of year is the lowest it has been in quite a long time. lowing owner(s): court This is leading to multiple offers and bids over asking price on Interlated Ventures, LLC, at the hearing indicated be- 7697 Hawthorn Ave, Liver- low some properties in good condition, particularly in the lower price more, CA 94550 to show cause, if any, why range of the market, as first time buyers and investors compete for This business is conducted by the a Limited liability company petition for change of name a limited number of homes. The registrant began to trans- should not be granted. Any Home sales may also receive a further boost from the rising act business under the ficti- person objecting to the prices occurring in the rental market, as households cycle out of tious business name(s) listed name above on 11/27/2002. changes described above homeownership and into renting. This trend is making it cheaper Signature of Registrants:s/: must file a written objection to own rather than rent in a growing number of cities. Jason Larson - Managing that includes the reasons for “We might see a spring season better than the numbers are Member the objection at least two This statement was filed with court predicting,” Jay Brinkmann, the Mortgage Bankers Association’s the County Clerk of Alameda days before the matter is chief economist, said during the MBA conference in Florida this on January 18, 2012. Expires scheduled to be heard and week. January 18, 2017. must appear at the hear- The Independent Legal No. ing to The number of renters in the country has increased during the 3185. Published February show cause why the petition housing crisis, while home ownership dropped to a 14-year low. 16, 23, March 1, 8, 2012. should not be granted. If no However, with rental costs rising nationwide, more renters may FICTITIOUS BUSINESS written objection is timely NAME STATEMENT filed, be lured to buying a home, particularly with home prices falling FILE NO. 461078 the court may grant the peti- and mortgage rates hovering at record lows. The following person(s) do- tion without a hearing. Mike Fratantoni, MBA’s vice president of economics and re- ing business as: D and D NOTICE OF HEARING search, is forecasting home sales to increase 10 percent in 2013. An Fabrication, 592 Sonoma a. Date: 04/20/2012 Ave, Livermore, CA 94550, Time: 8:45 AM Dept: improving employment picture, if it continues, also is expected to is hereby registered by the 504 have a positive impact on housing, MBA economists noted. following owner(s): b. The address of the Still, “everything is going to be based overall where the David Abbley, 592 Sonoma court is: Ave, Livermore, CA 94550 24405 Amador Street economy goes,” Brinkmann said. “This is going to be a slow This business is conducted by Hayward, CA 94544 year. There are a number of headwinds we’re facing in terms of an Individual Hayward Hall of Justice economic growth.” The registrant began to trans- 3.a. A copy of this Order To act business under the ficti- Show Cause shall be pub- Leslie Appleton-Young, Chief Economist for the California As- tious business name(s) listed lished at least once each sociation of Realtors, agrees that there are reasons for optimism, above on 1/1/2004. week but doesn’t see major changes ahead in 2012. “This was the Signature of Registrants:s/: for four successive weeks third consecutive month where we’ve seen home sales above the David Abbley prior This statement was filed with to the date set for hearing on 500,000 annualized threshold, so we’re off to a relatively strong the County Clerk of Alameda start,” Apple-Young said in February. on February 2, 2012. Expires “We foresee a modest increase in California home sales in 2012, February 2, 2017. The Independent Legal No. prices that aren’t going to be moving significantly, and continued 3186. Published February opportunities for first-time buyers and investors. Housing afford- 16, 23, March 1, 8, 2012. ability remains very positive in California.” STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT Kelly DeYoreo is a Realtor with OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS Prudential California Realty, Livermore NAME FILE NO. 454509 The following person(s) has (have) abandoned the use of the Fictitious Business Name: New Vice President of Mortgage Cal State Smogs, 3985 First Street, # F, Livermore, CA Originations Selected 94551. UNCLE Credit Union has announced the hiring of Marty Pe- The Fictitious business Name Statement for the Partnership tersen as the assistant vice president of mortgage originations. In was filed on 7/29/11 in the this capacity, he will assist credit union members with obtaining County of Alameda. first mortgages. The full name of Registrant: Harjit Deo, 595 Bourne Lane, Petersen previously served in a comparable role at Technology Danville, CA, 94506 Credit Union in Palo Alto, where he processed mortgage loans This business was conducted ranging from $100,000 to $3 million. His earlier employment by: Harjit S. Deo Signature of Registrant: includes real estate development and sales, as well as manage- /s/: Harjit S. Deo ment of the Real Estate Lending Department at Valley First Credit This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Alameda Union. Among his professional memberships are the National on February 10, 2012. Expires Association of Mortgage Bankers and the Global Coalition of February 10, 2017. Mortgage Partners. The Independent Legal No. 3187. Published February 16, Petersen will rotate among the UNCLE Credit Union branch 23, March 1, 8, 2012. locations. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 461095-96 The following person(s) doing business as: (1)All Pro Fire Protection (2)All Pro Pump- PAGE 12 - The Independent, MARCH 1, 2012 serves 485 students. Last year, bient light and easy access to the school opened a new building outside space,” says Clark. “The Valley Montessori students to be featured at for the upper school. classrooms are designed to be On Thursday, March 15, con- community spaces.” ference attendees will tour VMS For more information on AMS Montessori Society of America conference and Golden Oak Montessori and the AMS conference, visit School in Hayward. In addition www.amshq.org. Parent & Com- By Patricia Koning to the AMS accreditation, VMS munity Day on March 16 is open For teachers Vera Hotchan- is of interest because the entire to the public, but registration is dani, Andi Schwipps-Allison, campus was designed as a Mon- required. Bethany Mills, and 25 of their tessori school. To learn more about VMS, students, ages 6 to 9, from Val- “We have large, spacious visit the website at www.valley- ley Montessori School (VMS), classrooms with plenty of am- montessorischool.com. March 16 will be another ordi- nary day of school with one big exception. From noon to 3 pm that day, they will conduct their regular activities inside a walled, glass classroom at the San Fran- cisco Marriot Marquis. The glass classroom will be a key attraction at the American Montessori Association (AMS)’s annual conference from March 15 to 18 in San Francisco. Friday, March 16 is Parent & Commu- nity Day, open to all parents in the San Francisco Bay Area. The glass classroom pays homage to Dr. Maria Montessori’s demonstration of her revolutionary method of educating young Pictured above is a current lower elementary classroom. (Photo Frida Azari). children at the 1915 Panama Pacific International Exposition designed materials, and self-di- “The AMS accreditation is in the public domain, the term in San Francisco. Hundreds of rected learning. Docents will pro- shows we are an authentic Mon- can be used freely without any onlookers gathered around a vide observers with an overview tessori school,” says Hamar. “The guarantee of how closely a pro- glass classroom to watch Dr. and will be available to answer accreditation process was a lot of gram applies Dr. Montessori’s Montessori teach a group of questions. work, but it was good and healthy work. three- to six-year-olds who had “People will notice differenc- for our school growth.” VMS is also one of a few never before attended school. es from your typical classroom An estimated 20,000 schools Montessori schools that of- “We are honored to have at an elementary school,” says worldwide practice Montes- fers education from preschool our students and teachers fea- VMS Head of School Rosalind sori-style education. However, through eighth grade. The school tured in the demonstration glass Hamar. “Montessori classrooms because the term “Montessori” was founded in 1976. It currently classroom,” says VMS Associ- are very quiet and teachers spend ate Head of School Ann Clark. a lot of their time observing.” “Our teachers are happy to share Valley Montessori is the only their passion for Montessori. Montessori school in California Our students are proud to show that is accredited by AMS. The how independent and capable school is also accredited by the they are.” Western Association of Schools The glass classroom will and Colleges (WASC) and is spotlight hallmark features of a provisional member of the Montessori education, including California Association of Inde- mixed-aged classes, specifically pendent Schools.

Classroom as set up in an early Montesorri school.

LARPD Reports Tax Revenues Appear to Be Stabilized The Board of Directors for Livermore. the Livermore Area Recreation The Operating Budget is bal- and Park District (LARPD) re- anced with a few changes. The viewed the midyear budget for District is shifting more funds to 2011-2012 during a workshop watering parks than anticipated held last Wednesday. because of a dry winter season. Property tax revenue appears Directors approved adjust- to be stabilized compared to ments to the Capital Improve- previous years. This spring will ment Plan Budget based on be LARPD’s last year for an timing of upcoming projects. annual $363,000 debt service Anticipated construction of the payment for past construction of conversion of two sports fields at the Maintenance Service Center Robertson Park into artificial turf – a joint effort with the City of fields is planned for summer. THE INDEPENDENT • SECTION II THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 Art, Community, & Education

Page 4 - documentary film Page 5 - Jayme Stone

Page 2 - Diane Shuur

Page 9 - Mad Science 2 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 Art & Entertainment

Diane Schuur performs March 3. Schuur Leads Off Month of Jazz Marco Stefani Opening a month filled with had amassed her own collection head Theater stage for a single jazz performances at the Bankhead of recordings and particularly em- intimate performance on Saturday Theater, Grammy Award-winning braced the music of singers such March 3 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets range singer Diane Schuur will perform as Washington, whom she looked from $29 to $51 for adults and $14 Pleasanton Tenor to on Saturday, March 3, 2012. upon as a primary inspiration, for students. Known for a rich and deeply ex- and also Sarah Vaughn and Ella LVPAC Presents welcomes a Make His Debut at pressive voice, Schuur brings what Fitzgerald, to whom she is now wide range of acclaimed musi- The Chicago Sun Times called, often compared. cians, dancers, actors, comics, “one-of-a-kind velvet style” to a Schuur developed a rich and and other artists to the Bankhead Firehouse Arts Center broad range of musical genres, resonant vocal style early on and Theater each year. Coming next from the classic hits of Duke made her first public performance is contemporary blues singer Lizz Tenor Marco Stefani will make his hometown debut at Pleasanton’s Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald, to at a local hotel when she was just Wright who performs numbers Firehouse Arts Center on Sat., March 17 at 8 pm. Latin-inspired jazz and the popular ten years old. After high school, from traditional jazz and blues, to The Firehouse Arts Center is located at 4444 Railroad Avenue in songs of the 1960s and beyond. she played jazz gigs around the gospel tunes and her own deeply downtown Pleasanton. Over the past three decades as she northwest until an informal audi- personal songs. Wright appears Stefani will present a recital of songs and arias featuring Liszt's has explored every corner of the tion in 1975 led to a gig at the for a single performance at the Tre Sonetti di Petrarca. He will be collaborating with pianist Sunny 20th century musical landscape, Monterey Jazz Festival. There, her Bankhead Theater on Wednesday, Yoon. Diane Schuur has emerged as a smooth vocals attracted the interest March 22. Stefani completed his undergraduate studies at the University of the modern day legend in the very best of jazz saxophonist Stan Getz and She will be followed by the Pacific and is a three time alumnus of the Music Academy of the West. jazz tradition. he invited her to play in a talent legendary Rita Coolidge on Friday He received a Master of Music degree from the Jacobs School of Mu- Although blind from birth, showcase at the White House. evening, March 30. After rising to sic at Indiana University and made his professional debut in Puccini's Schuur grew up immersed in the Schuur released her debut album, fame in the 1970s and 1980s with Gianni Schicchi with Stockton Opera. Deeply interested in performing rich and melodic sounds of 1940’s Deedles, in 1984. Since then, she chart-topping popular songs such recitals, he recently sang in the Song Continues... Master Class series and 1950’s jazz music. Her father, has collaborated with a remarkable as “All Time High” and “We’re All with Renée Fleming at Carnegie Hall and won two awards from the a police captain, played the piano array of artists across multiple Alone,” in recent years Coolidge has turned her incomparably pure Marilyn Horne Song Competition. This summer, he will perform at and her mother kept a formidable genres including jazz, rock, pop and, most recently, classics from and versatile voice to new interpre- the Opera Theatre of St. Louis as a Gerdine Young Artist. collection of Dinah Washington and Duke Ellington recordings the golden era of country music. tations of beloved jazz standards, “Marco’s talent was brought to our attention by one of our vol- at their home just outside Ta- Twice the recipient of the Grammy delighting her fans and winning unteers who had seen him perform at University of the Pacific,” said coma, Washington. Nicknamed Award for Best Female Jazz Vocal her new and enthusiastic audi- Firehouse Arts Center Theater Supervisor Rob Vogt. “We reviewed a Deedles, Schuur learned to sing Performance, Schuur has appeared ences. DVD of his recital and realized that he had great talent that should be Washington’s signature song, solo and with such musical greats The Bankhead Theater is lo- shared with his home community. We’re very excited to bring him to “What a Difference a Day Makes” as Getz, B.B. King, Ray Charles, cated at 2400 First Street in Down- the Firehouse stage.” as a young child. With the rare Stevie Wonder, and Quincy Jones town Livermore. The ticket office Tickets are adult: $20, $22, $22; student: $18, senior $18, $20, gift of perfect pitch, she was able at some of the most prestigious is open Tuesday through Saturday $20. Tickets may be purchased online at www.firehousearts.org up to to teach herself piano by ear and venues in the world. from 12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. three hours prior to the performance, by phone at (925) 931-4848, or later received formal training at With her unique vocal styling On performance days the ticket in person at the Firehouse Arts Center Box Office. Box Office hours the Washington State School for and versatile 3-1/2 octave range, office remains open through in- are Wednesday-Friday, 12 noon-6:00 p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m.-4:00 the Blind. Even now, she continues every concert with Diane Schuur termission. To purchase tickets p.m., and for two hours prior to the performance. The entrance to free to play her own piano accompani- makes for an unforgettable evening call 925-373-6800 or visit www. parking is on Spring Street near First Street. ments. By her early teens, Schuur of music. She will grace the Bank- bankheadtheater.org Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 3 Haiku Poets Featured at Ravenswood Poetry Reading on Sunday Two acclaimed haiku poets will Quarterly,” “The Heron’s Nest,” be guest readers on Sunday after- and the “Seventh Quarry” (U.K.). noon, March 4, at Ravenswood She was nominated for a Pushcart endless variety, Historic Site. Prize in 2008. She participated in The event, part of a continuing the Speak Peace exhibit sponsored exciting entertainment series sponsored by the City of by Kent State University. Land Livermore and poet laureate Cher Shapes, recently published by Wollard, will be held 2 to 4 p.m. Richer Resources una Negra TONIGHT! at Ravenswood Historic Site, 2657 Publications, is her first po- Arroyo Road, Livermore. etry collection. She also writes L Dance Theater Mar 1 at 7:30pm Jerry Ball founded Haiku North children’s fiction, and works for America. He has been president Science Buddies, an educational E ervescent and Passionate of the Haiku Society of America nonprofit. She has an M.Phil. in Contemporary Latino Dance for two terms. He also served as Politics from the University of editor-in-chief of San Francisco Oxford and a B.A. from Duke Haiku Anthology and has written University. ed Molly FRIDAY NIGHT! several books of haiku, including An Open Mic will follow the Mar 2 at 8pm Pieces of Eight. Ball has a Master’s featured readings. R degree in Foundations of Math- Sherry Weaver Smith to read. The public is invited to attend. A Harmonious Blend of Music ematics and post-graduate studies Admission is $5; students with ID from a Range of Traditions in philosophy and education. He are admitted free. was a teacher for 50 years and is Sherry Weaver Smith’s poems For information, contact Cher retired from both the community have been published in the “Arizo- Wollard at 925 824-4824 or ch- iane Schuur college system and Cal State Long na Literary Magazine,” “To Topos: [email protected], or see Mar 3 at 8pm SATURDAY Poetry International,” “California D NIGHT! Beach. www.livermorelit.com A Modern Day Legend in the Best Jazz Tradition Best Selling Author to Present Program to Writers osca by Giacomo Puccini Karen Joy Fowler is author of For more information about at [email protected] TMar 10–18 Sat/Sun at 8/2pm the New York Times best selling California Writers Club Tri-Val- or (925) 960-9834 or visit www. Livermore Valley Opera book, The Jane Austen Book Club, ley branch, contact Violet Moore trivalleywriters.org. which was made into a movie and selected as a New York Times Notable Book. She will present rout Fishing in America The Plausibility and the Art of TMar 15 at 7:30pm the Good Lie for Fun and Profit, Silly Songs to Serious Music for All Generations focusing on how to bring a sense of authority and believeability to a story, for the California Writers Club Tri-Valley Branch. izz Wright The meeting will be Saturday, L Mar 21 at 7:30pm March 17, 2012 at 1:30 – 4:00 p.m. A Rising Star in the World of at Four Points by Sheraton, 5115 Contemporary Blues and Jazz Hopyard Road, Pleasanton, 94588 (south of I-580 between Owens Drive and Gibraltar Drive). In addition to being a successful ay Ungar & Molly Mason author, Ms. Fowler is a photogra- J Family Band pher and an avid reader. She lives Mar 23 at 8pm in Davis with her husband. They The Heart and Soul of have two adult children. Traditional American Music Tri-Valley branch invites writers of all genres and experience levels to learn about their craft at its monthly meetings. ome from NY: The cost for CWC members is H Laura Hamilton $10, and nonmembers, $15. Any- Mar 24 at 8pm F one interested in the program or Livermore-Amador Symphony PARKINGREE the organization may attend with no obligation to join. Reservations ! required. For a seat, contact An- BUY TICKETS nette Langer at reservations@tri- 925.373.6800 valleywriters.org or 925-484-5924 www.bankheadtheater.org by Tuesday, March 13, 2012. 2400 FIRST STREET | Downtown Livermore 4 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 Community Library to Show Documentary The documentary filmAutumn Gem will be shown at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 11, 2012 at the Livermore Public Library Civic Center, 1188 S. Livermore Av- enue. Meet the “Chinese Joan of Arc,” Qiu Jin, a radical women’s rights activist who defied tradition to become the leader of a revolutionary army. Qiu Jin boldly challenged traditional gender roles and demanded equal rights and opportunities for women. She was the first woman to lead an armed uprising against the corrupt Qing Dynasty, for which she was arrested and executed. She became the first female martyr for China’s 1911 Revolution and is celebrated as a national heroine today. As this year marks the centenary of the 1911 Revolution that ended impe- Fred Setterberg rial rule in China, it is especially crucial to acknowledge the role of women during the country’s transition to a modern nation. Lunch Bucket Autumn Gem sheds light on a seminal figure who continues to serve as an inspiration to Chinese Paradise Author at women today. While Qiu Jin is a familiar figure in China, she is largely the Library unknown outside of the country. Autumn Gem is the first docu- Fred Setterberg, author of "Lunch Bucket Paradise," will be mentary feature on Qiu Jin in the at the Pleasanton Library for a 2 p.m. presentation on March U.S. Using scholarly interviews, 11. archival materials, and dramatic The book provides a look back at the mid-century California recreations based on her original family dream. In these times of high unemployment and dimin- writings, Autumn Gem brings the ished expectations, suburban life in 1960s California seems like story of Qiu Jin to life. a distant dream. Autumn Gem was produced and With the sharp wit of a master storyteller, Fred Setterberg directed by two San Francisco Bay Chinese Culture Center San Diego event. chronicles his childhood in a blue-collar suburb of Oakland. Area Chinese American filmmak- Chinese Historical Museum, and The Friends of the Livermore Like a Bay Area Garrison Keillor, Setterberg reveals the ers, Rae Chang and Adam Tow. the Official Qiu Jin Museum in Library have underwritten this pro- quirks of his family and neighbors with nuance and care. He It stars former China National Shaoxing, China. Autumn Gem has gram as part of the Friends Authors poignantly explores class, masculinity, and modern life amidst Wushu Champion and Hollywood been screened at over 100 venues and Arts Series. For additional the intoxicating abundance of a new California. stunt actress Li Jing. Their part- worldwide. events, check the library’s website In advance of this book’s publication, sections of Lunch ners include the San Francisco There is no charge for this at www.livermorelibrary.net. Bucket Paradise have won prizes from The Florida Review, Literal Latte, and Solstice Literary Magazine. Fred’s coming-of-age casts a bittersweet pall on today’s world in light of the good life far out of reach for working- class families today. Reading his words, we realize the true meaning of the phrase “lunch bucket paradise:" it symbolizes Flowers, Vintage Cars in Spotlight During 'Fun on the Farm' an era of prosperity for blue-collar Americans that may never Forest Home Farms Historic to take a ride back in time with Farms Historic Park, including the come again. Park and the Glass House Museum a vintage vehicles display. From tractor museum, at 11am and 1pm. Fred Setterberg is the author of several non-fiction books, host Fun on the Farm from 10am 10:30am to 1:00pm, the Bay Area Each tour lasts approximately 45 including the award-winning The Roads Taken: Travels through to 2pm the second Saturday of Horseless Carriage Car Club will minutes and the fee is $5 per per- America’s Literary Landscapes and, with Lonny Shavelson, each month. be on-site with vehicles that date son or $8 for both tours taken on Toxic Nation and Under the Dragon. He has been a staff writer Each month features special from 1915 (or even earlier!). View the same day. Tour tickets can be for the East Bay Express and editor of Travelers’ Tales America free activities: 1928-1931 Model A’s exhibited by purchased in the Gift Shoppe. Chil- and has written for the New York Times, The Nation, and scores March 10, 2012: “National the Diablo A’s organization from dren ages 2 and under are free. of other national and regional magazines. Lunch Bucket Para- Plant a Flower Day” and “Vintage 10:00am to noon. Forest Home For more information about dise is his first novel. He lives in Oakland, California. Vehicles”- This month the City will Farms’ tractor volunteers will also Forest Home Farms Historic Park Towne Center Books will sell Mr. Setterberg’s book at the present two themes. have restored tractors and ‘hit or call (925) 973-3284 or visit www. event. For presale, please call 925/846-8826. Celebrate National Plant a miss’ engines on display. SanRamon.ca.gov. The program is free and open to all. No registration required. Flower Day with a visit to the Tours of the restored Victorian Forest Home Farms Historic For more information, call Penny Johnson, 925/931-3405. The organic garden. Visitors will be Glass House Museum will be of- Park is located at 19953 San Ra- library is located at 400 Old Bernal Avenue, Pleasanton. able to plant a flower seed to take fered at 10am, 11am, 12pm and mon Valley Blvd., just south of home. 1pm and tours of Forest Home Pine Valley Road in San Ramon. Car enthusiasts will be able

Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 5 Award Winning Banjo Player on Firehouse Stage Award-winning banjoist Jayme Diabaté. Stone will stop at the Firehouse Stone’s other award-winning Arts Center on his California album, “Africa to Appalachia," tour. both departs from and honors the He will perform at 8 p.m. on banjo’s long role in world music. Fri., March 16. The Firehouse Arts He embarked on that project with Center is located at 4444 Railroad the knowledge that the hide-cov- Avenue in downtown Pleasanton. ered instrument with an “extra” A two-time Juno Award win- drone string known as the banjo ner who was called the “Yo-Yo actually originated in West Af- Ma of banjo” by the Globe and rica. He was particularly curious Mail, Stone performs an eclectic about the music that may not have array of music inspired by folk made it across the ocean on slave traditions from around the world. ships headed west from Senegal His Firehouse Arts Center per- and Mali in the 1600s. The album formance will include selections is a musical collaboration with from his latest album, “Room of singer and kora maestro, Mansa Wonders," which features music Sissoko. from Norway, Sweden, Bulgaria, Tickets are adult: $15, $20, Brazil, Italy and North America. and $25; child: $12; senior $20. Highlights are a movement from Tickets may be purchased online at Bach’s French Suite, a Moorish www.firehousearts.org up to three sword-fighting dance and Stone’s hours prior to the performance, own “lush, edgy” originals. by phone at (925) 931-4848, or in Stone draws inspiration for person at the Firehouse Arts Center his music from varied disciplines Box Office. Box Office hours are such as Japanese poetry, Brazil- Wednesday-Friday, 12 noon-6:00 ian literature and instruments p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m.-4:00 found while traveling in remote p.m., and for two hours prior to the Jayme Stone to perform at Firehouse. Malian villages. He is influenced performance. The entrance to free by diverse artists such as Anouar parking is on Spring Street near Brahem, Bill Frisell, and Toumani First Street. 6 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 Art & Community

Samples of student artwork. Arroyo Seco to Host First Art Walk By Carol Graham Arroyo Seco Elementary students have created one-of-a-kind artwork to auction at their first-ever Art Walk on Friday, March 9 at 6:30 p.m. “Everyone’s excitement is catching,” said committee chairperson Kandice Olcese. “Each class worked collectively to come up with a project. They really went all out creating unique pieces of art.” Artwork includes canvas paintings, a tiled table (each student painted a tile), a seashell wind chime, and a ceramic cookie jar. Do- nations from Way Up Art, Chris Tolbeck Photography and Art Glass Studio helped the young artists see their ideas come to life. “Art being an almost non-existent subject in our public schools is a shame,” said Olcese. “We are trying to raise funds for things that the bare-bones budget doesn’t allow.” One program sponsored by the PTA is the Fine Arts Mini Expe- Tri-Valley TV Summer Camper shooting a segment of "Tri-Valley Youth View." rience. “Three times each school year, FAME volunteers present lessons in every classroom teaching music or art fundamentals and highlighting a composer or artist,” said program lead Carrie Prisbey. “The lesson concludes with an art project that coordinates with the Learn How to Produce a TV Program teaching.” Although the school’s Parent-Teacher Association has held dinner Middle or high school students Camp will run from 9 a.m. – 1 on experience in television pro- auctions in the past, with classrooms donating baskets of goodies or who may be thinking about choos- p.m. each day. The fee is $495 and duction, Tri-Valley TV Camp will services, participation has decreased over the years. “We’ve been ing video production for a future registration is limited. provide students with an overall getting fewer and fewer classes participating,” said Olcese. “We career are invited to attend the For the past three years, stu- picture of the production process, decided it was time for a change. Two parents put their heads together Tri-Valley Summer Camp. Of- dents have produced a one hour helps prepare them for related and came up with the art walk. fered by Tri-Valley Community special that aired on TV30 titled courses in video and provides an “I can tell you, students really enjoyed this experience.” Television, this TV Camp includes “Tri-Valley Youth View." edge for their future in the televi- The students’ artwork will be on display the week of March 5th an introduction to studio produc- “Students not only had the op- sion industry. Experienced ROP – 9th after school in the multi-purpose room. The silent auction on tion, field production, writing, portunity to work with our staff at Media instructor Mitch Eason will Friday night caps off a family-oriented evening of fun including producing and digital video edit- a real television station, but have be returning as Camp Director. bingo and raffle prizes such as free Wednesday ice cream for a year, ing. The day camp consists of a interviewed Mayors, Congress- The camp is located at the front-of-line lunch pass for a year, gift cards and tickets to family- total of 20 hours and is open to man, up and coming rock bands, Tri-Valley Community Television friendly events. middle and high school students newspaper editors and others,” Studios of TV28, TV29 and TV30 “Our teachers have so much going on,” said Olcese. “Classroom in grades 6 – 12. Participants will said Melissa Tench-Stevens, Ex- which is on the grounds of the participation was not mandatory, but they all found time to contribute.” work within a group to produce a ecutive Director of Tri-Valley TV. Pleasanton Unified School District, Livermore Arts Association is lending the school a display system TV program. "We have already had inquiries 4663 Bernal Avenue, Suite B in to provide a gallery-like presentation. Now in its fourth year, the TV from residents waiting for us to Pleasanton. “I am looking forward to seeing all the art together and showing Camp has sold out the past three open the registration. Our staff For more information and to reg- off just how creative our students are,” said Olcese. “I know people summers. Two sessions will be of- enjoys working with the students, ister for the Tri-Valley TV Camp, are already thinking about next year, and I think this event will only fered to campers. The first session and some of the students have gone visit the Tri-Valley TV website at grow from here.” will take place June 11-15. The onto working with us at the station. www.trivalleytv.org or phone the Arroyo Seco Elementary is located at 5280 Irene Way in Liver- second session will be available It is a win-win for all.” station at 925.462.3030. more. from August 6-10. Tri-Valley TV In addition to providing hands-

Livermore Library to Offer Lego Workshops in March Livermore Public Library pres- in engineering fundamentals will • Learn engineering terms spe- register for only one workshop. basis and will be limited to 20 at a ents a series of workshops intro- introduce children to projects they cific to the projects In addition to the workshops, time due to space constraints. ducing engineering fundamen- can build and will guide them • Acquire a greater understand- there will also be a free-play area This event is appropriate for tals to children by working with through the process. Through ing of how engineering applies to to work with LEGO™ from 2 to children ages 4 and older and is LEGO™. These programs will these workshops, children will: everyday life 4 p.m. for those who are waiting free of charge. To register for a take place on Saturday, March 17th, • Learn how to identify LEGO™ Registration is required for the for, or who have completed their workshop, please call the Youth from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Storytime materials two workshops, which will be held workshops, and for those who were Services Desk at (925) 373-5504. Room of the Livermore Public • Learn how to apply the engi- at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Registration is not able to sign up for a workshop. For more information, please visit Library, Civic Center. Two in- neering concepts from the projects underway. Each workshop is lim- Admission to the free-play area the Library’s website: www.liver- structors from Play Well TEKnolo- to real-world situations ited to 20 children; each child can will be on a first-come, first-served morelibrary.net. gies, a regional firm specializing Community THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 7 Armchair Travelers to Give Gllimpse of the Two Koreas Frank Rainer and his wife, one, but two guides and a driver, Sigrid, traveled to the Korean we found that the highlights of our peninsula last September. They trip to North Korea were attending will present a program on their the colorful Arirang Grand Mass Los Vaqueros Reservoir travels at the Livermore Library Gymnastic and Artistic Perfor- The lake of the Los Vaqueros grieved for the death of the on the ranch; Kent also dressed on Thurs., March 8 at 1:30 p.m. mance and, the Demilitarized Zone Reservoir is easily visible below majestic trees. Their average age in the western style. He died of Frank writes that while there (DMZ) at Panmunjom. The former our house. At times it is a bright was 400 years. The oldest was cancer in 1954. She lived on to would not be enough room to fit was as spectacular as any commu- sky blue, reflecting a few small 800 years, with an eleven-foot make her own reputation. From all of the information on a real nity extravaganza could be where white clouds. Occasionally, it is diameter trunk. That tree was Rancho to Reservoir, one of the postcard, it would presumably the 100,000 young performers far almost hidden by a finger of fog. born about 1600, meaning that it books detailing the social history travel more quickly than the outnumbered the audience. The Some days it is a dark gray with witnessed the life of the Ohlone, of the Vasco area required of postcards sent to relatives from latter is the site where the Korean waves rumpling its surface: it native American tribes, and later the CCWD by the government, the Hermit Kingdom. This nick- armistice was formally negotiated has a mysterious look. When that the changes in their lives brought describes her: “In community name refers to the centuries that to cease if not technically end the happens, I am reminded of all the by the Spanish missions. Some history there are always a few the Korean peninsula was cut off hostilities in Korea. past life that lies hidden beneath of the oak lumber was used in men who are remembered as from the rest of the world. Now In the south, Jeju Island has its surface. furnishing the visitor’s center at larger-than-life characters. It is the north, officially called the become a popular hedonistic The reservoir lies in a val- the reservoir site. rare for a woman to be recalled Democratic People's Republic of destination for young South Ko- ley to the north of Livermore, Just about in the center of the in this fashion, but former Vasco Korea (DPRK) is still cut off in rean newlyweds. It is know as the mostly in Contra Costa County. reservoir underneath the waves rancher Edith Ordway certainly many ways. In contrast, the Re- "Hawaii of Korea." South Korea It was a Mexican land grant, the are the foundations of the houses ‘stands tall’ in local memory and public of Korea in the south is a is steeped in centuries of history Rancho Cañada de los Vaqueros. belonging to Edith Grant Ord- legend.” booming and bustling society that as exemplified by Gyeongju, the Three brothers-in-law, Francisco way, who bought her property Locals interviewed for the ships is modern technology to the capital of the ancient Silla Empire. Alviso, Manuel Miranda, and in 1948. She was a rich woman, book recalled Mrs. Ordway as “a far corners of the world. Today it is called the "museum Antonino Higuera, applied for inheriting wealth from her fam- real cowgirl who could out-gun He explains that the trip to without walls." Together with the property. Governor Michel- ily. Her grandfather, Adam Grant, and out-fight the boys.” She these two contradictory lands was Seoul, this city and Jeju Island are torena approved their petition in immigrated to California from owned exotic pets, including almost an afterthought. The plan the three most visited destinations 1844. Three years later they sold Scotland in 1850, in time to earn monkeys. The book continues, was to travel along the Northwest by South Koreans. the land to Robert Livermore. his wealth by selling drygoods “Although charming and gra- Passage across Canada form The public is invited to a slide- By the late 1850s many Basques to the gold miners. Her father, cious when sober, she was a real Greenland to Russia on a Russian show of the travels as part of the from Argentina had settled in Joseph D. Grant, continued in his hellcat when she drank and she icebreaker. The trip was canceled. Armchair Travelers program on the valley. To English speakers father’s footsteps. The Murphy, would take a shot at anybody The decision was made to travel Thurs., March 8 at 1:309 p.m. The and spellers, the sounds of V and Grant & Company store at the without provocation. A neigh- the two Koreas, the north just re- presentation is entitled, "Korea B in Spanish were confusing. northeast corner of Sansome bor recalled that he often drove cently opening up to tourist. from Both Sides of the DMZ." The word Basque came to be and Bush Streets in San Fran- guests to town who had been hit The flight into North Korea The Livermore Library is lo- pronounced and spelled Vasco cisco was destroyed in the 1906 by buckshot.” was via Beijing, where visas for cated at 1188 So. Livermore Ave., in English. The popular name earthquake and fire. The new Last year the CCWD enlarged the four-day journey were ob- Livermore. There is no admission for the area became “the Vasco,” version still stands on that site to- the reservoir, but that is a story tained. Accompanied by not just charge. and the road through the valley day—the Adam Grant Building. for another column. One night I “Vasco Road.” Eventually the The Grants also lost their San was watching the reservoir under Livermore family sold the prop- Francisco mansion in the fire and the light of a rising full moon. erty. Through the years it has had decided to build a new home in All was quiet and then, probably many other owners and tenants. Burlingame. While they waited only in my imagination, out in In 1988 the Contra Costa for it to be built, they lived at the middle of the lake bubbles Water District approved a project Grant Ranch, which is today the were coming up from the bottom to build a reservoir in the valley. largest Santa Clara County park, and popping on the surface. The quality of the drinking water encompassing 9,553 acres west (Readers can reach me at that the district supplied to its of San Jose on the Mt. Hamilton [email protected].) 430,000 customers in Central Road in Hall Valley. They bought and Eastern Contra Costa County the property in 1880 and built needed to be improved. The Wa- a house on the ranch two years ter District began acquiring land later. Edith, born in 1902, prob- until they owned 18,500 acres ably learned her riding and shoot- of open space surrounding the ing skills there. They did not run proposed 1,450-acre reservoir. cattle but raised polo ponies. Construction began in 1994; the After acquiring her land in the project was completed in three Vasco from Oscar Starr, Edith years. A formal dedication was and her husband, Kent Ordway, held on 2 May 1998. A major had renovation work done on part of the project was the rerout- the Starr home and guest house. ing of Vasco Road; it now runs to He had a swimming pool dug in the east of the valley. front of the main house. They Under the mysterious waters also built a log cabin out near the of the reservoir are the stumps old corrals on the place. They of almost 1,000 valley oak trees. liked to have barbecues and pic- The valley oak, California’s nics there. They lived year-round largest deciduous oak, can grow on the ranch and became famous as tall as 125 feet. We witnessed for their wild parties and antics. the harvest from our house and Edith was a beautiful woman. She dressed in jeans and shirts 8 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 Art & Entertainment

artist Peggy Magovern. Cultural Arts WINERY EVENTS Ohlone College Music Department, Fri., Donlon Way, Dublin. Featuring Amazing Building, 4455 Black Avenue, Pleasanton. Winemaker Series at The Winemaker's March 9, 8 p.m. Smith Center at Ohlone Mr. Pete. A former Ringling Bros. and Public is invited. No charge. Pour House: evening with fine food College, 43600 Mission Boulevard, Fre- Barnum and Bailey Circus Clown. $5 Carolyn Lord, nationally recognized art- from the Winemaker's Pour House and mont. Pieces covering a wide variety of youth. www.ci.dublin.ca.us ist, will teach Preparation for Drawing & wine pairing with the winemakers from musical styles. Included will be "Send Top Shelf's: Disco Fever, Motown revue, Painting the Figure Model, designed to the Livermore Valley Wine Country. The in the Clowns" by Sondheim, featuring March 24, 8 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, guide the novice, and inspire the expe- Winemaker's Pour House, 2241 First Flugelhorn Soloist Cliff Mercer; "Suite 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. rienced artist. No prerequisite required. Street, Livermore. Wednesday, March from Porgy and Bess" by Gershwin, the firehousearts.org. Morning and evening classes will be 7, 2012 - Charles R Vineyards. 6:30 p.m. "Die Fledermaus Overture" by Strauss, Pleasanton Community Concert Band, offered on 6 consecutive Mondays: - 8:00 p.m. For more information (925) "The Beatles Go Brass" by Lennon and spring concert, March 25, 2:00 - 3:15. February 2–March 26, 2012, 9–11 a.m. 215-2656, www.winemakerspourhouse. McCartney, and more. Tickets: $8-$15. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad and 7–9 p.m.. The class fee is $120, which com Parking: $2. 510-659-6031 or smith- Avenue, Pleasanton. 447-7270. includes drawing materials. Contact The Chocolate and Cabernet, Fenestra Win- center.com An Evening with Rita Coolidge, 8 p.m. Figurehead Gallery to sign up: ball@ ery, March 10 and 11, noon to 5 p.m. Youth Music Festival, 10th annual March 30. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First figureheadgallery.com. Wines paired with different chocolate festival Sat., March 10, 2 p.m. at the St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. Goran Konjevod, a mathematician, is dishes, both savory recipes and sweet Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad org or 373-6800. teaching Introduction to Paper Fold- chocolate treats. $12.50. 83 Vallecitos Ave., Pleasanton. For tickets, visit www. The Dunwell's Pop Rock Band from Leeds, ing: Pleating and Simple Folds. This Rd., Livermore. firehousearts.org. England, 8 p.m. March 30, Firehouse Arts 4-session course covers basic paper- Gold on Greenville, Charles R, Bent Creek, Pinkalicious presented by Bay Area Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. folding techniques, gives an overview McGrail, and Wood Family wineries are Children's Theater, March 10-18, Fridays www.firehousearts.org. of traditional and modern approaches on the Leprechaun wine trail celebrating 7 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 2 and 4:30 p.m. Front Atlantic Brass (Quintet) March 31, 8 p.m. to origami design, and leads the stu- "Gold on Greenville" on St. Patrick's Day, Row Theater. www.sanramon.ca.gov Del Valle Fine Arts Concert, Bankhead dent through a sequence of projects. March 17, noon to 4:30. Gold Medal Wine Jayme Stone, Banjoist Extraordinaire, Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. www. Artist Patricia Poulos Leonard Diagrams, instructions, and paper will tasting and delectable desserts will be March 16, 8 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. of Reno, Nevada has received a be provided. No prior paperfolding featured. Be sure to enter the Greenville 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. Bill Harley, 2-time Grammy winner, Sat., experience necessary. Classes will be Gold Gift Basket Raffle. $5 tasting fee at firehousearts.org. March 31, 2 p.m. matinee and 8 p.m. Special Recognition Award for offered 4 consecutive Sundays: February each winery. Molly’s Revenge, Fri., March 16, 6 to 9 p.m. late show. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 artwork in the "14th Annual Realism 26–March 18, 2012, 2:00-4:00 p.m. Cost Barrel Tasting Weekend, March 31, St. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 3350 Hop- Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www.fire- Juried Online International Art is $80 plus $15 for paper and materials. 2012 – April 1, 2012 at over 35 Wineries yard Road, Pleasanton. Molly’s Revenge housearts.org. Contact The Figurehead Gallery to sign throughout Livermore Valley, noon to is returning to St. Clare’s for St. Patrick’s Exhibition" hosted by Upstream up: [email protected]. 4:30 p.m. Chance to taste wines before Day Dinner. Molly’s Revenge is a dynamic, ON THE STAGE People Gallery. This international Everything Poetry (in two parts), Second they have been bottled, getting a behind acoustic Celtic band known for its unique Legally Blonde, Diablo Theatre Company, exhibition received approximately Saturday Soup-workshops 2nd Saturday the scenes look into the winemaking and infectious enthusiasm. Tickets are The Musical performs at the Lesher Cen- of every month, 10 a.m.-12 noon Fire- process. Meet winemakers, bottle your $40 per adult, $20 for children under 12. ter for the Arts in Walnut Creek, February 100 entries from around the house Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Avenue, own wines, enjoy food pairings, and That includes a dinner of corned beef 10 - March 3, 2012. For tickets call (925) world. 21 artists were selected Pleasanton; Third Tuesday Trope- poetry other activities that vary by winery. and cabbage with beverages. Members 943-SHOW or purchase online. by the juror Laurence Bradshaw, critiques 3rd Tuesday of every month, Tickets are $30 advance ($35 event day) of the public are invited. It is not neces- Moon Over Buffalo, by Ken Ludwig (of 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Towne Center Books, and include 2 days of barrel tasting, sary to be a member of St. Clare’s to Lend Me a Tenor fame), is a wild and Professor of Art at the University 555 Main Street, Pleasanton. Contact exclusive discounts, keepsake glass, and buy tickets. Tickets are available at the wacky backstage farce ably helmed of Nebraska at Omaha, U. S. A. Cynthia Bryant at PleasantonPoetry@ special activities at each winery. For a church office. For more information call by award winning director Jim Colgan. Leonard's painting was entitled, ci.pleasanton.ca.us. list of activities, participating wineries, 925-462-4802. Chanticleers Theatre’s first show of the Figure Drawing Workshop, every Friday and to purchase tickets, visit www. Music Dept. Benefit Concert with Wake 2012 season, Feb. 24 to March 18, 8 p.m. “Livermore Grape Vines." She 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Artists bring LVwine.org the Dead, Fri., March 16, 8 p.m. Las Positas Fri. and Sat., 2 p.m. Sundays. Chanticleers moved from the Tri-Valley to Reno. their own materials and easels. Open College, Barbara F. Mertes Center for the Theatre, 3683 Quail Ave., Castro Valley. The exhibition will be featured to all artists. Professional artist models MUSIC/CONCERTS Arts Main Stage Theater, 3000 Campus General admission $18, seniors, students, (nude). No instructor. Students under Music every Saturday in the tasting room Hill Dr., Livermore. Advance purchase military $15. Tickets www.chanticleers. online during February, 2012 at 18 need written parental permission to from 12 to 4; open every day if the gate tickets will be available online at www. org, [email protected] or www.upstreampeoplegallery.com attend. Cost $20 per session. Bothwell is open and for sure on Fridays, Satur- brownpapertickets.com with the venue 510-SEE-LIVE (510-733-5483) Arts Center, 2466 8th St., Livermore. Cof- days and Sundays 11 to 5. Red Feather of Las Positas College, or call 1-800- Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Civic and continue for 12 months, closing fee, tea and refreshments are available. Winery, 5700 Greenville Rd., Livermore. 838-3006. Tickets will also be available Arts Stage Company, March 2 and 3 at January 31, 2013. Call or email Barbara Stanton for more Information at 449-1871 or www.red- at the door. For further information 7:30 p.m.; March 3 and 4 at 2 p.m. Fire- ART/PHOTO EXHIBITS info about the workshop, 925-373-9638 featherwinery.com call the Performing Arts Events Line at house Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Livermore Art Association Gallery, lo- - [email protected]. Tri-Valley Medieval and Renaissance 925.424.1100 or call Cindy Rosefield at Pleasanton. www.firehousearts.org. cated in the Carnegie Building, offers art Art in Public Places, join a local group Collegium playing session for ama- 925.424.1119 Douglas Morrisson Theatre presents classes, unusual gifts, painting rentals, art of artists and paint on selected Friday teur musicians, Peter Maund, director. Ashu Classical Saxophonist, March 18, 3 "Dividing the Estate" by Horton Foote, a exhibits and information pertaining to mornings around town. ACC/Art Critique Mondays 7:30–9:30 p.m. 7600 Dublin p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad darkly comic portrait of a family divided. the art field, 2155 Third St., Livermore. The and Coffee invites artists to express Blvd., suite 370, Dublin. $25. Information Ave., Pleasanton. www.firehousearts. Directed by Susan E. Evans. Thursday, gallery has been open since 1974 and is themselves in watercolor, acrylic, oil For [email protected] or 925-424- org. February 23, 2012 preview 8:00 p.m.; run as a co-op by local artists. Hours are more details check out the website for 1209 or 925-984-4395 Food for the Soul, a Chamber Music performances through March 18. Doug- Wed.-Sun. 11:30-4 p.m. For information Poetry On Canvas Pleasanton or contact Chris Bradley's Jazz Band, plays at the Concert to benefit Open Heart Kitchen las Morrisson Theatre, 22311 N. Third St., call 449-9927. Claudette at PoetryOnCanvas@Mac. Sunol Jazz Cafe (In the Center of Sunol) on Sunday, March 18, 2012 at 4 p.m.. Hayward. Post-play discussion March 10 Expressionist painter Marco Rosales Com ~ ACC Meets each Friday at vari- the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month First Presbyterian Church, 4th and L matinee. Tickets $10 preview, $20 Sat. Shaw works are on display at Pruden- ous locations. 7:30-9:30 p.m. The band features real Jazz Streets, Livermore. Information contact matinee; $28 evening performances and tial California Realty through March 15. Girls Night Out Classes, Make family from the 1920's, 30's. Janet Holmes, at 925-829-0244 or Phyllis Sunday matinee. (510) 881-6777; www. Prudential California Realty is located at memories by attending a class together. Red Molly, Bluegrass, March 2, 8 p.m. LVPAC Harding at 925-447-8630. dmtonline.org. 1790 First Street, Livermore. The show is Painting, jewelry making and paper art Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Lizz Wright, jazz, March 21, 7:30 p.m. LVPAC Sunol Repertory Theatre Melodrama, open for viewing during regular business are now available to experience locally. St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First "Rogue of the Railway," Fri. and Sat., 8 p.m. hours or by appointment. Contact Cher Classes led by artist Claudette McDer- org or 373-6800. St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. March 9-24. Sunol Glen School, 11601 Wollard at 925 824-4824 or cherw@ mott. For more information e-mail or The Temptations, March 2, 8 p.m. Dough- org or 373-6800. Main St., Sunol. Tickets by mail go to cherw.com for information. call to sign up for classes 510 543-4776 erty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Jay Ungar & Molly Mason, March 23, 8 p.m. sunol.net/srt or call 925.862.0664. Freeze Frame, top 25 photos from Tri-Val- [email protected] ~ Individual Albion Rd., San Ramon. www.sanramon. LVPAC Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 Play On!, a comedy by Rick Abbot. March ley Conservancy contest on exhibit at and group classes available. ca.gov First St., Livermore. www.bankheadthe- 10-11, 16-17, 2012. Friday-Saturday the Livermore Library, 1188 So. Livermore Make It & Take It, 2nd Thursday of each Diane Schuur, jazz, March 3, 8 p.m. LVPAC ater.org or 373-6800. 8 p.m. Sunday 2 p.m. Doors open 20 Ave., March 1-31. On view during regular month, with guest artists and demos. Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Piano and organ concert, featuring con- minutes before show time. Tickets $10. library ours. March is “Fuse Flower Holder” only St., Livermore. www.bankheadtheater. cert pianist Daniel Glover and organist General admission. Buy online at www. Passion for Pastels, Harrington Gallery, $15 Art Glass Studio, 174 South L St., org or 373-6800. Jerome Lenk, Fri., March 23, 7:30 p.m. asburylivepresents.com or at the door. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Livermore. Contact Roberta Jones at: California Symphony, spring concert First Presbyterian Church, Livermore. Asbury Players, Asbury United Methodist Ave., Pleasanton. March 14-April 4, 2012. 925-447-1962 www.artglassstudio. Novacek Plays Rach 3, featuring guest Featuring the music of Liszt, Bach, Franck Church, 4743 East Ave, Livermore. (925) Opening reception, Wed., March 14, 6:30 weebly.com conductor Alastair Willis, who will con- and more. Tickets for this event may be 447-8699. to 8:30 p.m. Free and open to the public. Beginning Stained Glass, start and finish duct a program including Ruslan und purchased for $25 in advance or at the Grease, Amador Valley and Foothill High Group of pastelists reside in the bay area. a small stained glass window (14” x 14”) Ludmilla Overture by Mikhail Ivanovich door. www.brownpapertickets.com. School production, March 17-24, 7:30 www.firehousearts.org. using cutting and manufacturing skills. Glinka, Bartok’s Concerto for Orchestra, Livermore Amador Symphony, concert p.m., Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Livermore Art Association, Spring Art Learn how to use basic glass tools. Limit- and Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. Sat., March 24, 8 p.m. featuring violin Rd., Pleasanton. Tickets at www.fire- Show, March 31 and April 1, The Barn, ed to 8 students. Additional studio hours 3 featuring internationally renowned soloist Laura Hamilton; works by Wagner, housearts.org. Pacific Avenue, Livermore. Awards event are available at a daily, weekly or monthly pianist John Novacek. Novacek Plays Mendelssohn and Dvorak. Bankhead Godspell, March 23, 24, 25, 30 & 31 and Saturday night. www.livermoreartas- rate. Tools and supplies are $174. Does Rach 3 will take place at 4 p.m. Sunday, Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. www. April 1, Fri. and Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m. Las sociation.org not include glass. 5 week class, 2.5 hours March 4, 2012 at the Lesher Center bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. Positas College, Barbara F. Mertes Center each. Your choice of: Weds 10-7, Thurs-Sat for the Arts (1601 Civic Center Drive, Larry Carlton, four time Grammy Winner, for the Arts Main Stage Theater, 3000 MEETINGS/CLASSES 10-9, Sun 10-4. Classes are ongoing. Art Walnut Creek). Tickets ($39-$69) can be March 22, 8 p.m., Firehouse Arts Center, Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. Advance Pleasanton Art League and Livermore Glass Studio, 174 South L St., Livermore. purchased by calling the Lesher Center 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www. purchase tickets will be available online Art Association general meeting, Mon., Contact Roberta Jones at: 925-447- ticket office at 925-943-7469 or by visit- firehousearts.org. at www.brownpapertickets.com with March 19, 7:30 p.m. Guest artist is pencil 1962 www.artglassstudio.weebly.com ing www.californiasymphony.org. Children’s Variety Show, Sat., March 24, 1 the venue of Las Positas College, or call Mission Peak Brass Band, presented by p.m. Dublin Heritage Park and Museums, 1-800-838-3006. Tickets will also be avail- Art & Entertainment THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 9

able at the door. For further information sen, ". . . is knowing . . .;" Robin Estrada's historic downtown Pleasanton. call the Performing Arts Events Line at "Paghahandog;" Reena Esmail's "The Science on Saturday, March 3, 9:30 and 925.424.1100 or call Cindy Rosefield at White Key;" David Conte's "The Home- 11:45 a.m, Restoring Sight to the Blind: 925.424.1119 coming;" and Huang Ruo's "Without Bridging the Medical Gap with Technol- The Importance of Being Earnest, March Words." $25 advance, $20 seniors over ogy; Presenter: Sat Pannu, Teacher: Kirk 28, 7:30 p.m. LVPAC Presents, Bankhead 65, $10 students under 21; at the door Brown. Lawrence Livermore National Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. www. $30, $25 seniors, $10 students. www. Laboratory's lecture series for middle bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. VoltiSF.org. 415-771-3352. and high school students, Bankhead Valley Concert Chorale, March 10, music Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. No COMEDY from weddings and coronations. www. admission charge. www.bankhead- Mafia-esque playsat the Veterans Memo- valleyconcertchorale.org. theater.org rial building on Friday, March 2 at 7:30 Broadway Chorus, March 30 - April 1, 2012 Murder by Merlot, a wine tasteless event. p.m., Pleasanton Teen Improv troupe at the Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Interactive Mystery Dinner Theatre Creatures of Impulse will perform The Rd., Pleasanton. 8 p.m. March 30 and 31; 2 presented by GibsonHouse Mystery Tribe, a teen long-form improv show p.m. April 1. www.trivalleyrep.org. Performers at Sunol Valley Golf Club. based on the long-running reality Fri., March 9. Wine tasting attire most show Survivor. Tickets for both shows OPERA welcome. 3-course gourmet meal and are $5 per person and are available at OperaLIVE! at the Livermore Public Li- farcical mystery play, all for $59 per the door. 301 Main St., Pleasanton. (925) brary, 1188 So. Livermore Ave. Sunday, Sleuth, tax and gratuity included. Seat- 931-4828. March 4, 2pm – 3:00 p.m. Free. Livermore ing begins at 7:15 p.m. The Sunol Valley The Impuls-ible Film Project, Friday, April Valley Opera presents a one-hour per- Golf Club, 6900 Mission Road, in Sunol. 20, Pleasanton Teen Improv troupe Crea- formance of arias from Tosca as well as Reservations required at (925) 862-2408. tures of Impulse return to the Veterans those from other well-known operas. www.SunolValley.com. Memorial Building stage at 7:30 p.m. Tenor David Gustafson, who will sing 5th Annual Cuban Culture Week: March to present a revival of a format made the part of Cavaradossi, Tosca’s lover, 12-16, 2012, Musicians, Singers, Danc- popular by the Un-Scripted Theater will perform. For more details on the ers, Writers. Las Positas College, 3000 Company in San Francisco. Three teams full production of Tosca and the library Campus Hill Drive, Livermore. www.se- of improvisers will take to the streets of preview programs, please visit www. manacubana.org for times and locations Pleasanton to shoot three improvised livermorevalleyopera.com. of events. Information contact Catherine short films based on your suggestion. Broadcast from the Met, Dublin Regal Suárez at CSuárez@laspositascollege. Tickets are also $5 per person, and all Hacienda Cinema. Ernani, March 14; edu or 925.424.1212. tickets are available at the door. 301 Main Manon, April 7 and 25; Turandot, April 14, Ed Kinney Lecture Series, 7 p.m. An Eve- St., Pleasanton. (925) 931-4828. May 2. First date is a morning showing, ning with Isadora Duncan, Tues., March Comedy @ Firehouse Arts with Mike second date afternoon. Check for exact 13. Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 Railroad Pace, March 8, 7:30 p.m. Firehouse Arts curtain time. 560-0900. Avenue, Pleasanton. $10 General Admis- Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. Livermore Valley Opera presents Puccini’s sion, $5 Members & Seniors, $3 Students/ www.firehousearts.org. Tosca, March 10, 11 and 17, 18, Bankhead Teachers with ID. All tickets are paid at Night at the Improv, March 24, 8 p.m. Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore. www. the door. All tickets are open seating. Tickets $10. Front Row Theater, 17011 bankheadtheater.org or 373-6800. Information www.museumonmain.org Bollinger Canyon Rd., San Ramon. www. Recital, featuring tenor Marco Stefani. or (925) 462-2766. sanramon.ca.gov March 17, 2 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center, Trout Fishing in America, March 15, 7:30 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. Infor- p.m. LVPAC Presents, Bankhead Theater, DANCE mation at www.firehousearts.org or 2400 First St., Livermore. www.bank- Luna Negra Dance, March 1, 7:30 p.m. 931-4848. headtheater.org or 373-6800. LVPAC Presents, Bankhead Theater, 2400 St. Patrick's Day-themed Brew Crawl on First St., Livermore. www.bankheadthe- MISCELLANEOUS Friday, March 16 from 6-9 p.m. hosted ater.org or 373-6800. Political Issues Book Club meets the by Pleasanton Downtown Association. Friday Night Dance Parties, themed 4th Tuesday of each month, and reads Costumed guests will sample local parties each Friday night from Salsa to books about issues and trends that craft beer and appetizers in a variety Mad Science for Kids Comes Swing, includes a group dance lesson are driving current affairs in both the of downtown businesses. Information at 8:15. $15 cover charge, 8:15 dance national and international arenas. Topics is available from the Pleasanton Down- lesson, 9:00-10:30 for dance parties. that have been covered include politics, town Association (925) 484-2199, www. to the Pleasanton Library It's All About Dancing, 171 So. J Street, governance, economics, military affairs, pleasantondowntown.net. Livermore. 925-449-9292, or studio@ history, sociology, science, the climate, 2012 Dublin St. Patrick's Day Celebra- itsallaboutdancing.com. and religion. Contact Rich at 872-7923, tion, March 17 and 18, festival at Civic Mad Science of Mt. Diablo brings its traveling science fair to the for further questions Plaza, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parade, March Pleasanton Public Library on Saturday, March 17 at 2:00 p.m. The MOVIES We’re Talkin’ Books! Club is a member- 17, 9:30 a.m. Dublin Blvd. Shamrock 5K troupe’s Up, Up and Away! Program highlights the powerful principles Jewish Cultural Film Series, "An Article centered book group led by a small Fun Run & Walk, Sun., March 18, 8:30 a.m. of air and pressure, and includes experiments and demonstrations. of Faith," Sunday, March 11, 3:30 p.m.; group of book club veterans, with Civic Plaza. www.ci.dublin.ca.us. "Kaddisch Fur Einen Freund (Kaddish reading selections based on member Goodguys 30th All American Get- Mad Science of Mt. Diablo offers a series of programs that meet the for a Friend)," Sun., March 11, 7:15 p.m.; recommendations and consensus. Together, March 24 - March 25, 2012, California Science Curriculum Standards. The programs are hands-on "Mabul (The Flood)," Thurs., March 15, No homework required– share your Alameda County Fairgrounds, 4501 and inquiry based, and provide a strong educational focus in a fun 7:30 p.m. Vine Cinema, 1722 First Street in insights or just listen in! Contact Susan Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton. Over environment. Livermore. To purchase tickets online or at 337-1282 regarding the We’re Talkin’ 3,000 All American or American Powered for more information: www.eatbayjew- Books! Club. Rods, Customs, Classics, Muscle Cars, The program will be held in the library meeting room at 400 Old ishfilm.org or call 510.318.6456 Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasan- Street Machines and Trucks, Vendors and Bernal Avenue. No registration is required. Free admission tickets will Classic films at the Pleasanton Library, ton events: Gem Faire, March 9-11, Fri, Exhibitors, Indoor and Outdoor Car Show, be distributed in the Children’s reading area beginning at 1:30 p.m. Las Positas College and the Pleasanton 12pm - 6pm; Sat, 10am - 6pm; Sun, 10am Swap Meet and Cars 4 Sale Corral, Model Public Library present the series. Theme - 5pm. Adults $7 weekend pass, Child and Pedal Car Show, Arts and Crafts Show, For more information on this and other library events, please visit the this year is ‘Three Great Directors." Ad- under 12 free accompanied by adult. Kids Play Area, Pinstripers Brush Bash and library’s website at www.cityofpleasantonca.gov/services/library, or mission is free. The series is hosted by Gems, Jewelry, Crystals, Beads, Lapidary Auction. For more information visit www. call the Children’s Desk at (925) 931-3400 ext. 8. Candace Klaschus, Professor of Media Equipment, Silver, Gold, all your jewelry allamericangettogether.com. Studies at Las Positas College. Klaschus needs under one roof. Classes and dem- offers a brief talk about each film prior onstrations. www.gemfaire.com to the screening. The three great film Museum on Main, preschool pre-literacy directors featured in this year’s series are program, M.o.M.’s Reading Time. For Howard Hawkes, John Ford and Alfred ages 2 to 5 and families, free reading Hitchcock. Refreshments are served. A program, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Reading complete list of the ‘Three Great Direc- at 10 a.m. with theme crafts following. TRAVEL tors” films is available at the Pleasanton Donations appreciated. No reservations Public Library. Movies will be shown the required. Large groups or playgroups first Thursday of each month through please phone in advance: 925.462.2766 BUG June 7, 2012. No registration required. or email: education@museumonmain. The library is located at 400 Old Bernal org. 2012 M.o.M.’s Reading Time Dates Ave., Pleasanton. For more information, and Themes: March 14, The End of the Located in call Penny Johnson, 931-3405. Rainbow; April 11, Art Smart; May 9, Please and Thank You; June 13, Flag Day; Downtown Livermore CHORAL July 11, We All Scream for Ice Cream; Au- VoltiSF, chamber singers perform Songs gust 8, It’s A Circus; September 12, Fiesta; 2269 Third Street With(out) Words, Fri., March 2, 8 p.m. St. October 10, Creepy Critters; November Mark's Lutheran Church, San Francisco; 14, Thank You, Veterans; and, December (925) 447-4300 Sun., March 4, 4 p.m., The David Brower 12, Light Up the Seasons. The Museum www.travelbuglivermore.com Center, Berkeley. Works by John Muehlei- on Main is located at 603 Main Street in 10 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 Community Lab, College Offer Seminar: 'How Science Gets Done'

A new seminar in the second AltaVista, or Bing assemble their season of the Lawrence Livermore lists of results? How does Expedia National Laboratory (LLNL)/Las find an airline itinerary? How do Positas College Science and En- Facebook or LinkedIn find people gineering Seminar Series will be you may know? How do dating presented on Monday March 5, sites propose possible matches? 6-7:15 p.m. in the Multi-Disciplin- How do banks catch potentially ary Building 2400, Room 2420. fraudulent activities? These, and The seminar is part of a series, many, many more, are examples “Theory to Practice: How Science of graphs in action. Gets Done.” “While some of the graph algo- The March 5 seminar is entitled rithms are subtle and complex, a “A Child’s Garden of Graphs: How surprising number are remarkably a pinch of linear algebra, a smatter- simple. Many can best be under- ing of graph theory, and a spoonful stood and implemented with the of computer science is dominating tools of linear algebra. But the your life.” modern world is also the world The event is free and open to of exponential growth of infor- the public. Parking is $2. mation, and many of the graphs The seminar will reveal math behind these applications are and computer science techniques rapidly growing to extraordinary that collect, sort, categorize and size. How do we deal with graphs process online information. Semi- having tens or hundreds of billions nar presenters are two LLNL ex- of vertices? How can we deal with perts: Van Emden Henson, Ph.D., information at enormous scales? Applied Mathematician; and Andy “Where the mathematician and Yoo, Ph.D., Computer Scientist. the applications scientist devise “The series is designed to en- the algorithms to organize, mine, Talk Hawks pictured are (from left) Lex Newman, Shea Wigton, Salim Razawi, Sarah Kellner, Weston hance the partnership shared by or employ the information, it falls Toste, Alexandra Penn, Scott Ault, Karina Kruel-Anderson, Adam Neylan, and Birney Young. the two Livermore institutions and to the computer scientists to cre- provides a forum for laboratory ate the architectures, hardware, scientists and engineers to share software environments, and imple- their broad range of basic and ap- mentations making the computa- Talk Hawks Bring Home Trophies plied research with the college’s tions possible. In this talk, Van scientific community of students, Emden Henson will describe some The Las Positas College Speech for the National Championship tation - 5th Place, Open Poetry staff and faculty,” said Dean of of the graph-based problems that Team, the Talk Hawks, placed first Tournament. Interpretation - 7th Place; Math, Science, Engineering and have become ubiquitous in today’s among community colleges in the The following Talk Hawk stu- Adam Neylan of Tracy . Open Public Safety Neal Ely, Ph.D. world, and the mathematical tools Individual Event Competition at dents won awards at the recent Programmed Oral Interpreta- Biology Instructor Nan Ho, used to address them, and Andy the Feb. 10-12 Northern California tournament: tion - 3rd Place, Open Dramatic added, “The series offers a way Yoo will describe the challenges Forensics Association’s Champi- Alexandra Penn of San Ramon, Interpretation - 3rd Place, Open onship Tournament. Poetry Interpretation - 4th Place, and approaches to realizing these Open Communication Analysis to look at how science is done. A “This was our first big test of Open Duo Interpretation - 5th unique feature of the series, espe- methods on the most modern com- - 1st Place, Open Duo Interpreta- the season and it launches our tion - 5th Place; Sarah Kellner Place; Weston Toste of Livermore putational engines.” cially for a community college, is championship spring semester,” of Brentwood , Open Dramatic , Open Persuasive Speaking - 4th the focus on the ‘big science’ that For more information about the said Director of Forensics Tim Interpretation - 5th Place, Open Place, Open Informative Speaking LLNL does that requires cross- seminar, please visit the website Heisler. Speech to Entertain - 5th Place; - 5th Place. disciplinary expertise.” at http://www.laspositascollege. “The Talk Hawks won awards Salim Razawi of Dublin , Open Las Positas College is located Following is the abstract: “How edu/news/scienceSeries.php. in every category of competition Prose Interpretation - 4th Place, at 3000 Campus Hill Drive in does Netflix (or Amazon) recom- Las Positas College is located they entered, earning 13 individual Open Programmed Oral Interpre- Livermore. mend the movies (or products) at 3000 Campus Hill Drive in awards and a team sweepstakes you may like? How do Google, Livermore. award,” Heisler said. “A total of 31 colleges and universities participated in the competition. Our Megan Soldati, a resident of Pleasanton has earned placement on the Gonzaga Open-Level Individual Event com- University Dean's List for fall semester 2011. Students must earn a 3.5 to 3.69 petitors finished second overall.” grade-point average to be listed. The Talk Hawks have a history Grace Vickers, a student athlete at Binghamton University, was named to of state, national and international the fall 2011 Athletic Director's Honor Roll after achieving semester grade point awards including a Second Place averages (GPA) of 3.30 or higher. Vickers, who is on the Women's Volleyball Sweepstakes Award from the In- team and pursuing a major in BA Geography General, hails from Pleasanton, ternational Forensics Association’s and attended Amador Valley high school Speech and Debate Tournament. In March, the team will travel to Elizabeth Feldstein, of Dublin, graduated from the University of Delaware's Rome, Italy to participate in this College of Arts and Sciences. Feldstein was among the newest members of the prestigious international tourna- University of Delaware's Class of 2011 whose achievements were celebrated dur- ment once again. In April, the ing Winter Commencement ceremonies held Sunday, Jan. 8 in Newark, DE. team will head to Chicago, Ill. Feldstein graduated in front of an audience of more than 4,000, which included more than 500 other new Blue Hens, as well as UD faculty, administrators and members of the UD Board of Trustees.

Community THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 11

Credit Union Restructures Staff As a strategic move to achieve assistant vice president, call center the organization’s long-term ob- manager. jectives, UNCLE Credit Union has announced the restructuring of key Uncle Manager Dublin Honors Citizen of the Year, Young staff members. UNCLE Credit Union has an- “At UNCLE Credit Union, we nounced the appointment of Dean always have an eye on the future Lam as the new manager of the Citizen, and Organization of the Year to help ensure that our organization Lawrence Livermore National stays at the forefront of the in- The City of Dublin announced aged the corporation to donate she serves meals at the Open Heart Laboratory branch. the 2011 Citizen of the Year, Young funds to the Dublin Senior Foun- Kitchen. During the holiday sea- dustry,” stated Harold Roundtree, Lam brings to the organization UNCLE’s president and CEO. Citizen of the Year and Organiza- dation at the rate of $10 for each son, she participated in the Santa’s more than 20 years of experience tion of the Year. hour Ed volunteers. In 2011, Ed’s Breakfast for Dublin children and “This is the best way to achieve in financial services, most recently our goals and those of the members Edwin Osada was named citi- documented hours has provided the Christmas party in Richmond, as a financial center manager at zen of the year; Rachel Reed, a contribution of $3200 to the CA, for under-privileged children who rely on us for state-of-the-art Meriwest Credit Union. There he financial services.” young citizen; and OneDublin.org, Foundation. and their families; she also worked headed a team responsible for en- organization of the year. Ed assumed the leadership with special education students on Gina Bloomfield has been suring both business development named senior vice president/chief The winners were honored of the of the Center’s Tri-Valley making Holiday cards. and member satisfaction. In 2010, during an evening ceremony on Trail Trekkers Program in 2007. She has an excellent record financial officer of the Finance he was awarded the Gold Medal of Division. James Fisher has been Friday, February 24 at the Shannon This highly successful and award of academic achievement as re- Champions for the Santa Clara Val- Community Center. The purpose winning program increased its flected by her high test scores and named senior vice president/chief ley Chapter of the California Credit technology officer of the Informa- of these awards is to recognize membership and popularity to all 3.8 grade point average. She is a Union League. Prior to his position outstanding individuals and groups time highs in 2011. Ed maintains California Scholarship Federa- tion Technology Division. Terri at Meriwest, Lam served in various Checketts has been named assis- who have contributed to the qual- the program's mailing list, and tion life member. Rachel aspires sales, marketing, and managerial ity of life in Dublin this past year. recruits, trains and supervises vol- to earn a college degree in music tant vice president/branch manager capacities at financial institutions of the main branch. Nomination criteria for both the unteer hike leaders for their weekly management with a career goal throughout California. Citizen and Young Citizen of the outings. He also created and main- to promote music as an important Serena Rhoton has been named “We are pleased to enhance assistant vice president/branch Year Awards are based on the tains the group website, www. artistic and developmental tool for our Lab branch team with the ad- Dublin Pride – Integrity in Action trailtrekkers.weebly.com. This site young students. manager of the Pleasanton branch. dition of Dean Lam,” stated Dree Janice Silveira has been named Program’s 10 Characteristics: features the hike guidelines and Kerrie Xavier Chabot, wrote of Johnson, UNCLE Credit Union’s Responsibility, Respectfulness, monthly schedule of the hikes as the orginzation, as an eleven year assistant vice president/branch director of retail banking. “He manager of the Tracy branch. Caring, Giving, Positive Attitude, well as many photos taken by Ed, resident of Dublin, California, I has an excellent track record in Trustworthiness, Cooperation, Do- capturing the many beautiful views would like to nominate OneDub- Sue Nichols has been named as- member service, which makes him sistant vice president, controller. ing One’s Best, Honesty, and Self- of the local trails and parks visited lin.org for the 2011 Organization an excellent fit with our member- Discipline. The Young Citizen of of the Year title. One Dublin.org, Christine Jeffrey has been named focused philosophy.” by the group. the Year recognizes the volunteer As an avid ukulele player, Ed is founded by James Morehead in service of Dublin’s youth in 1st also a part of the Melody Minstrels 2009, is an ongoing independent – 12th grade. Jam Band at the Center. source of education information Stark Recognized as a Award recipients will be recog- Rachel Reed is described as that inspires parents and students nized at an upcoming City Council an outstanding young woman of to succeed in school by showcasing 'Champion for Children' meeting. The Organization of the impeccable character. She has Dublin’s education excellence. It is Year will receive a $500 cash 100% parent- volunteer run and The First Focus Campaign for Karen Bass, Xavier Becerra, Lois been a Girl Scout for 13 years and Capps, Judy Chu, Barbara Lee, prize, and a $300 donation will be active in all aspects of music. She funded. Ongoing activities include Children, a national, bipartisan given to each the Citizen and Youth publication of 450 online articles, child advocacy group, recognized George Miller, Lucille Roybal- earned her Gold Award for Girl Allard, Linda Sanchez, and Lynn Citizen of the Year’s favorite non- Scouts, the highest honor a scout more than 100 videos, and inter- U.S. Congressman Pete Stark as a profit organization. views that promote information “Champion for Children” for his Woolsey. An additional 50 Mem- can achieve, by planning the 1st bers were recognized as “Defend- Edwin (Ed) Osada, has been a Annual Gael Rock - Battle of the on colleges and careers, as well as leadership on issues important to Dublin resident since 1988. Dur- community events geared to those children during 2011. ers of Children” for their support Bands – a district-wide music ing that time, he has demonstrated involved in Dublin schools. In the “Lots of politicians talk about of policies that advance the well- event in 2011. She co-coordinated great leadership and contributed past year OneDublin.org has been kids’ issues, but few back it up,” being of children. and directed all aspects of the tremendously to the seniors at the a major player in bringing together said Bruce Lesley, president of In selecting Champions and event to promote the importance Dublin Senior Center as well as to the community and mobilizing the Campaign for Children. “Con- Defenders, the First Focus Cam- of music education. The proceeds the community at large. In 2011 citizens for discussion and action gressman Stark delivered for kids paign for Children noted leaders went to support the Dublin Unified who introduced, co-sponsored, Ed volunteered over 320 hours to School District elementary music on important issues and decision- in 2011.” Senior Center programs and sup- making. Their website, Youtube Rep. Stark was one of only 50 and voted for legislation to meet program and toward the purchase children’s needs. In addition, the port (equal to an average of six of a $4,000 marimba for the Dublin channel, and facebook pages have Members of Congress whose ef- hours a week) adding to his total received over 150,000 views, forts to protect and improve the fu- organization considered Members High School concert band. She is who demonstrated extraordinary of thousands of hours over the last currently in the process of planning thousands of fans, and continues ture of America’s next generation few years. to grow in support. earned recognition as a Champion. initiative by spearheading activi- the 2nd Annual Battle of the Bands ties such as sponsoring hearings Ed started the weekly One- to be held in February 2012. Information on each of the Other Californians selected as on-One computer PC classes in award recipients can be found on Champions for Children include or garnering the support of their Rachel tutors freshmen and colleagues to improve the health 2004. His knowledge as computer sophomore students in mathemat- the City’s website – www.dublin. House Minority Leader Nancy programmer with Intel, encour- ca.gov. Pelosi, as well as Representatives and well-being of children. ics after school two days a week;

12 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, MARCH 1, 2012 Community

(Organizations wishing to run notices soon as possible to [email protected] in front of the Museum on Main, 603 Main Library, Dublin Library and Pleasanton Senior the John Main tradition, every Monday 5:30 in Bulletin Board, send information to PO or call Dianne Offutt at 1-855-OWL-CROSS. Street, downtown Pleasanton. Participants Center. For information on schedules go to p.m. and 7 p.m. For details, contact Claire La Box 1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care This event is at Owl's Crossing Ranch, 7890 will reflect on the human and monetary aarp.org/taxaide or call 1-888-227-7669. Scola at 447-9800. of Bulletin Board or email information to Camino Tassajara, Pleasanton. Refreshments costs of the war, honor veterans who have Alameda County Master Gardeners. Stepping Stones on Grief Journey [email protected]. Include name will be available. Be ready to buy and sell tack. sacrificed, and visualize ways of moving Visit the Earth Friendly Demo Garden in Liver- workshop, bimonthly event. St. Elizabeth of organization, meeting date, time, place Plus bring baling twine, there is an award beyond this conflict to a more peaceful more Valley wine country and hear Master Seton Church, 4001 Stoneridge Dr., Pleasan- and theme or subject. Phone number and for the most twine delivered. The twine is world. Peaceful War Protest on the fourth Gardeners from the eastern county share ton. 2nd and 4th Thursday at 7:30 p.m. March contact person should also be included. recycled and the proceeds are all donated Wednesday of the month, March 28, between their knowledge about the following topics: 8 & 22, 2012. No preregistration is necessary. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday.) to the improvement of local trails. 5 - 6 at the corners of First and Neal Streets. March 10 – Planting Drought Resistant Con- These sessions are open to all, regardless of Daffodil show, The Northern California Valley Spokesmen Bicycle Touring Questions?? Call Cathe Norman at (925) tainers; and April 14 – Spring in the Garden. religious affiliation. Please call Mary Hagerty Daffodil Society will hold its annual Bay Area Club, Sat., March 3, 52-62 miles from Marti- 462-7495; Matt Sullivan at mjs7882@gmail. Master Gardeners are on duty at the Garden at 925-846-5377 for more information. daffodil show at Alden Lane Nursery, 981 nez to Jelly Belly, meet 8:45 a.m. at Martinez com; or [email protected]. www.Pleas- on the second Saturday morning each Catholicism, St. Michael Catholic Church Alden Lane, Livermore, on Sat., March 3, 1 p.m. Marina, Carol Da Shiell, 989-8321. Sun., March antonians4Peace.org month. This Earth Friendly Demonstration in Livermore will screen all ten episodes to 5 p.m. and Sun., March 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 4, 32 miles Palomares via Schaffer Ranch Spring Boutique , Our Savior Lutheran Garden is full of drought tolerant plants. Its of Father Robert Barron's groundbreaking The show is open to the public. Admission then chose the route beyond, meet 9:30 Ministries will be hosting a Spring Boutique purpose is to provide an educational experi- "Catholicism" series, followed by a question is free. Visit www.daffodil.org or call show a.m. at Shannon Park in Dublin, Gail Blanco, on Saturday, March 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. ence featuring "Water Wise" plants as an al- and answer session led by Suzanne Slupesky, chairman Kirby Fong at 443-3888. 872-1001. Club meeting, Wed., March 7, 7 The event will take place in the gymnasium ternative to the traditional home landscape. Catholic theology scholar. One episode will Ohlone Audubon will meet on March 6 p.m. Round Table Pizza, Dublin, find answers at Our Savior, 1385 S. Livermore Avenue in It is located at 3575 Greenville Road next to be featured per night for 10 consecutive at 7:30 pm at the Castro Valley Adult School, to club questions, www.valleyspokesmen. Livermore. Everyone is invited to attend. the Martinelli Event Center in Livermore. For Mondays through March 12, 2012, from 4430 Alma Avenue 94546. The presenter is org. Wed., March 7, 21 miles Carquinez Strait, Spring into shopping for Easter, Mother’s more information visit http://acmg.ucdavis. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. in St. Michael Parish Hall Claudia Schwalm, who will share images Cummings Skyway, Franklin Canyon loop, Day, graduations, weddings and more. Please edu or call (510) 567-6812. located on the 300 Block of Maple Street, on the diverse avifauna in three regions of meet 10 a.m. at Martinez Marina, Dick Ward, contact the church office with questions, Jungle of Jewels, The American Cancer Livermore, California. Admission is free. For Peru, including Andean Condors, Humboldt 389-6738. Anyone planning to go on a ride 925-447-1246. Society Discovery Shop in Pleasanton is re- additional information on Father Barron's Penquins and Titicaca Grebes. No admission is asked to contact the leader for details on Tri-Valley Republican Women Feder- questing donations of costume or precious series visit www.catholicismseries.com. St. charge and refreshments serve. For more where to meet and what to bring. ated, Linda Paine, Co-founder of the Election jewelry for its annual jewelry event, “Jungle Michael Parish, 458 Maple Street, Livermore, information call 925-447-8843 or go to web GNON (Girls Night Out Networking) Integrity Project, will be the guest speaker. of Jewels” on March 9, 10 and 11, 2012. Dona- 925-447-1585. site www.ohlone audubon.org and The Coco Cabana hosting mixer, Tues., Luncheon is on Saturday, March 10, 11:30 tions are accepted at the shop during open Centerpointe Church, 3410 Cornerstone Volunteer opportunity, Firehouse March 6, 5 to 8 p.m. networking opportuni- a.m., at The Rock House Restaurant, 1840 hours: Monday to Friday 10-6, Saturday 10-5, Court, Pleasanton. Services: 9 a.m. blended- Arts Center Volunteer Program Orientation: ties, tons of raffle prizes, socializing, great Portola Avenue, Livermore. Cost of lunch is Sunday 12-5. The Discovery Shop is located in style with choir and band, family worship. Tuesday, March 20, 7:00pm. RSVP required. food and fun. The Coco Cabana Restaurant, $20 per person. For reservations or informa- the Mission Plaza Shopping Center at 1987-A 10:30 a.m. contemporary led by band, Join our fantastic team of volunteers for 4500 Tassajera Rd., Dublin. $10/pp for tion call Phyllis at 925-462-4931 or email Santa Rita Road, Pleasanton. Contact Monda Sunday School for children and middle- an inspiring and rewarding experience in members, $15/pp for non-members, RSVP [email protected]. Wiseman, Mgr. at (925) 462-7374 for more schoolers. www.centerpointechurch.org; the arts. Positions include Theater Usher, to [email protected] by March 3. www. Livermore Lions Club, 2nd Annual information. All proceeds benefit the Ameri- 925-846-4436. Will Call Window, and Gallery Desk. Theater gnontrivalley.com Crab (renewal) Feed or Corned beef and can Cancer Society’s programs of research, St. Innocent Orthodox Church, 1040 volunteers must be at least 16 years old, Volunteer Case Managers Needed, cabbage (for non-crab eaters) on March 24. education, service and advocacy. Florence Rd., Livermore. Sunday service at and gallery volunteers at least 21. For more The Tri-Valley Youth Court is looking for The event is being held at The Barn, 3131 Pa- Toastmasters - Livermore Lunch 10 a.m. For details please see our website information, or to RSVP, please contact the adult volunteers to act as Case Managers cific Avenue, Livermore. The $45.00 ticket(s) Bunch meets Mondays at noon, conference at www.stinnocent.net or call Fr. Leo Arrow- Volunteer Program at 925-931-4855, or for the middle and high school youth par- is good for all you can eat Crab or Corned room, 2157 First St., Livermore. Learn to de- smith at 456-0845. [email protected] ticipating in the program. Case Managers beef and cabbage. The ticket also enters the velop communication and leadership skills Join in conversation about “The Shack” Livermore Amador Valley Garden contact their assigned cases to remind purchaser in a change for a door prize of a in a supportive environment that fosters Wednesday evenings at 7:30 and Thursday Club will meet on Thursday, March 8, 7:00 them of court nights, class dates and help Nook reader. During the event various other self-confidence and personal growth. www. mornings at 10:30. Pastor Chuck Johnstone at Alisal School's multipurpose room 1454 find/approve community service options. fund raising functions will be held (50/50, livermoretoastmasters.org. will be hosting a discussion group on the Santa Rita Road, Pleasanton. Tom Bressen of The Tri-Valley Youth Court meets on the 2nd raffle). Dessert will be provided for a dona- Operation: S.A.M. "Supporting All Mili- most impactful Christian writing of our time. Urban Farmer will speak on irrigation for the Monday night of the month at the Pleasan- tion to the Livermore Lion's Club. The event tary" is a 501(c)3 non profit military support “The Shack” has sold over 15 million copies garden and lower water use plants. Visitors ton Council Chamber, 200 Old Bernal Ave. runs from 5:30 PM to 9 PM with food served organization based in Livermore. S.A.M. has and tackles questions about God’s role in are welcome. For more information call Bev For more information, please contact Tonya during event by the Lion's and the Leo's. been in operation since January 2004. It human tragedy and how guilt, shame and at 925-485-7812 or visit www.lavgc.org. Clenney at 337-7175/tonyaclenney@com- The proceeds of the event go to support the is dedicated to the continued support of issues of God’s judgment shape our views Bingo, fundraiser for Christensen Middle munityyouthcourts.com or visit http://www. Livermore Lion's services to the community. deployed troops. Preparation of comfort about God. Drop-in participants welcome. School (CMS) 8th grade students for their communityyouthcourts.com. Ticket purchases contact Lion Ben Barrientos packages takes place every other week Location: 4743 East Avenue, Livermore, for DC/NYC trip. Dates at the Bingo Ranch for Youth Volunteers Needed, The Tri-Valley at 925 449 9974 or bbarrientos@earthlink. - all year long. Providing morale support for more information contact the church at 925- this event are Thursday, March 1 and Thurs- Youth Court is looking for youth volunteers net. Livermore Lions' 87 years and still in those deployed. All information provided is 447-1950. Copies of the book available at the day March 15. Bingo Ranch, 3070 Pacific ages 13-17 to act as Jurors, Court Clerks and support of the Livermore community. Some confidential and is not shared for security class. Asbury United Methodist Church, 4743 Ave., Livermore. Call 925-606-7777 for more Advocates. The Youth Court occurs on the tickets may be available at the door. purposes. To submit a name and address, East Avenue in Livermore. information. 2nd Monday night of the month at the Pleas- Kindergarten, Do you have a child turn- inquire about donations or helping, please Adult Inquirer's Class, St. Clare’s Episco- Widowed Men and Women of North- anton Council Chamber at 200 Old Bernal ing 5 on or before November 1, 2012 and visit www.operationsam.org, email opera- pal Church, 3350 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton, ern CA., Brunch buffet breakfast in Liver- Ave. For more information, please contact ready for kindergarten? Come to Livermore [email protected] or call 925 443-7620 adult inquirer's class, Sunday mornings more, March 4, 10:45 a.m., RSVP by March 2 Tonya Clenney at 925-337-7175/ tonyaclen- Valley Joint Unified School District's annual for more information and the calendar of January and February. Learn about the Epis- to Hilda, 398-8808. Lunch in downtown Dan- [email protected] or visit Kindergarten Registration Fair on Thursday, events. copalian faith. Rev. Carol Cook will be the ville, March 7, 11:30 a.m., RSVP by March 4 to http://www.communityyouthcourts.com. March 1 from 3 p.m.-7 p.m. or Friday, March 2 guide. For more information call the church Marsha, 830-8483. General meeting/birthday Garden of Grace Learning Session 4: from 2-6 p.m. at the Robert Livermore Com- RELIGION office 925-462-4802. Sign up on the church luncheon, March 10, 1 p.m., RSVP by March Planning and Planting a Summer Vegetable munity Center. For more information, visit Unitarian Universalist, 1893 N. Vasco kiosk or on the web site: www.stclarespleas- to Marsha, 830-8483. Dinner and entertain- Garden on Saturday, March 3, 11 to 11:45 AM. www.livermoreschools.com. Rd., Livermore. 10:30 a.m. Sunday service. anton.org. ment in Pleasanton, March 15, 6 p.m., RSVP by Rain or shine. Free. Asbury Methodist Church, Foothill & Amador Juniors: Coming Information 447-8747. St. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 3350 Hop- March 7 to Barbara, 426-8876. Friendly bridge 4743 East Avenue, Livermore, classrooms 11 soon to Foothill High School: for only $165, Congregation Beth Emek, 3400 Nevada yard Road, Pleasanton. Services on Sunday, in Hayward, March 18, 1 p.m., RSVP by March and 12. Class taught by Dr. Mark Brunell, Al- learn the strategies needed to outsmart the Court, Pleasanton. Information 931-1055. 8:00 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. All are welcome 13 to Elma, 510-582-1308. Lunch at DVC culi- ameda County Master Gardener, information SAT with Catalyst's SAT Boot Camp! Saturday Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, affiliated with and worship, whether or not you feel called nary facility in Concord, March 22, noon, RSVP at www.asburygardenofgrace.org/ & Sunday, March 3rd & 4th -- class runs 9 a.m. the Congress of Secular Jewish Organiza- to participate in any other way in the com- by March 18 to Ruby, 462-9636. Champagne Armchair Travelers, a monthly program, - 1 p.m. both days; sign up online at www. tions (csjo.org). Information, Rabbi Judith munity. For more information call the church brunch in Pleasanton, March 25, 11 a.m., RSVP will take place at the Livermore Civic Center CatalystPrep.com. This event is sponsored Seid, Tri-Valley Cultural Jews, 485-1049 or office 925-462-4802. with check by March 18 to Jill, 510-881-4788. Library on Thurs., March 8, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. by Foothill's AABC and Amador's PTSA. Ques- EastBaySecularJews.org. St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, Happy hour in Pleasanton, March 29, 5 p.m., Frank Rainer will show digital photographs of tions email: [email protected] for St. Matthew's Baptist Church, 1239 678 Enos Way, Livermore. Services on Sunday RSVP by March 27 to Kathy, 398-8005. Lunch the trip he and his wife Sigrid recently took to FHS students or [email protected] for North Livermore Ave., Livermore. Services on at 8 a.m. and 10:30am. Children's Sunday in Pleasanton, March 31, 11:30 a.m., RSVP by Korea. Adults are invited to this free program AVHS students. Sunday at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Adult Sunday school during the 10:30 a.m. service. For more March 27 to Marge, 828-5124. held on the second Thursday of each month San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club school 9:30 a.m., Children's Sunday school information call the church office at (925) Tri-Valley Democratic Club, meeting in the Community Meeting Rooms of the invites new and long-time residents to at 9:30 a.m. Prayer each Wednesday at 7 447-3289 or SaintBartsLivermore.com. Mon., March 19, 7 p.m. IBEW Hall, 6250 Vil- Civic Center Library, 1188 S. Livermore Av- its monthly luncheon on March 15 at Faz p.m. followed by Bible study at 7:30 p.m. Lenten Retreat, “The Fruits of the Holy lage Parkway, Dublin. Kevin Fagan of the SF enue, Livermore. For additional information Restaurant, 600 Hartz Ave., Danville. The 449-3824. Spirit: Tools to Transform Your Life From the Chronicle will be discussing the Occupation, please call 925 373-5500. speaker will be Harry Hubinger, an author of United Christian Church, celebrating 50 Inside Out” presented by Fr. Tom Allender, 99%ers and how the media covers these Spring Break SAT Prep Class in Liver- a monthly column "Stamps on my Passport." years in the Tri-Valley. 1886 College Ave. at M S.J. at St. Charles Catholic Community, 1315 events. Refreshments, Q&A. more - LARPD is offering an intense SAT The cost is $21. Call Grace, 828-8554, for St., Livermore; worships on Sunday morning Lomitas Ave., in Livermore March 12-14. Fr. Food Matters, the film, will be shown prep class April 2 -5 from 9 am - noon each reservations or information. at 10:30 a.m. Children’s program on Sunday Tom will give two identical sessions each at 7 p.m. on Sat., March 3 at the IBEW Hall, day. Classes will be held at Robert Liver- Citizenship Process, The Hindu Com- morning and first Fridays. The community day 9:45-11:00 am and 7:30-9:00 pm in the 6250 Village Parkway, Dublin. This is a film more Community Center 4444 East Avenue, munity and Cultural Center, of Livermore is welcome. United CC is an Open and Af- church. Monday’s topic is “Love within that challenging the sickness society that the Livermore. Register at larpd.dst.ca.us or 373- (Shiva Vishnu Temple) will be conducting a firming ministry. Call 449-6820 for more brings us true Joy and inner Peace.” Tuesday’s current medical system encourages through 5700, or go to susanprep.com for additional free Citizenship Process and Related Issues information. topic is “Fruits developed within the attitude the heavy usage of strong pharmaceuticals information. presentation on Sat., March 10, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Faith Chapel Assembly of God, 6656 of Patience, Generosity, and Kindness.” and blind ignorance of nutritional solutions. Scholarships available for Amador, This presentation is open to all. Shiva-Vishnu Alisal St., Pleasanton, Sunday School for all Wednesday’s topic is “We live lives of Faithful- This film shows us that food and nutrition are Foothill and Village seniors: In 1965 a Temple Assembly Hall, 1232 Arrowhead ages 9:15 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m., Children’s ness in our families, in our parish, and in our the keys to a healthy lifestyle. Guests from group of Pleasanton educators and busi- Ave, Livermore . This will be a presenta- Church 11:15 a.m. Women's Bible study work.” All denominations are invited to join an organic subscription farm, Farm Fresh To ness people got together for the purpose of tion/talk by Aruna Venkidu ESQ on how to Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Intercessory prayer St. Charles in a spiritual renewal. For more You, will be on hand to discuss their farm raising money and awarding scholarships obtain US Citizenship and related issues. For 1st and 3rd Wednesdays. Please call office at information contact Julie at upcatholic@aol. and bring some of their produce. Potluck to graduating seniors. 47 years later Ama- more information contact Suman Jain at 846-8650 for weekly programs. com or 925-447-4549 ext 114. meet & greet starts at 6:30 p.m. A discussion dor Valley Scholarships, Inc. has awarded [email protected] or call the temple Trinity, 557 Olivina Ave., Livermore. Purim Celebration and Megillah follows the film. For more information, call $469,000 in scholarships. Amador Valley 925-449-6255. Sunday worship at 8:30 and 11 a.m. and 6 Reading at Congregation Beth Emek, 3400 925-462-3459. Scholarships, Inc. awards its general scholar- Free income tax help, Feb. 1-April 14. p.m. Sunday school or Bible study for all ages Nevada Court, Pleasanton, Wed., March 7, 6 Tack Sale, Trash for Trails and Tri-Valley ships as well as 8 memorial scholarships to AARP tax aide volunteers, trained and certi- at 9:45 a.m. Awana is Sunday at 3:30 p.m. p.m. Costumes and noisemakers encouraged. Trailbazers, Inc, are holding a Tack Sale of graduating seniors from Amador, Foothill fied by IRS.. Serving seniors and low-middle Wednesday nights there is adult Bible study Megillah reading will be followed by comi- horse equipment and donations of baling and Village High Schools. Applications for income taxpayers. Robert Livermore Com- at 6:45 and NRG and Re.Gen for youth, and cal entertainment, dessert and schmoozing. twine which is recycled to make outdoor fur- the scholarships can be downloaded at www. munity Venter, 4444 East Ave., Livermore. children's choir for kids. Child care during all Suitable for people and families of all ages. niture. This event is Sunday, March 11 from amadorvalleyscholarshipsinc.org Mondays noon to 4 p.m. by appointment events. 447-1848, www.trinitylivermore.org. Pizza will be available for nominal cost at 10am to 5pm (rain date is April 1). Limited Pleasantonians 4 Peace, is sponsoring only (373-5760) and Saturdays 10:30 a.m. to St. Charles Borromeo, 1315 Lomitas 5:30. Reply to 925-931-1055. Go to www. space available for sale tables. So RSVP as a candlelight vigil, 7 p.m. Wed., March 14 2:30 p.m. walk-ins. Also available at Livermore Ave., Livermore. Meditation groups following bethemek.org for more details.