Reward Tops $10,000 For Arrest Of Horses' Killers - The Independent

PAGE 2 - The Independent, OCTOBER 30, 2008Jackson Avenue ElementaryCelebrates the End of RemodelingBy Patricia KoningOn the morning of Wednesday,Oct. 22, the entire studentbody at Jackson Avenue ElementarySchool gathered on the frontlawn to celebrate the grand openingof their newly remodeledschool.“We’re very excited that thisday has come,” said Jackson principalTammy Rankin. “It feelslike a brand new school.”In her remarks, she thankedDirector of Facilities Floyd Wilson,Steve Tatum and DanPendleton of Pencon, Inc., RickWatt of PNH Construction, theJackson PTO for the new soundsystem and marquee, and MacSmith for designing the new stingraymascot.All of the classrooms were redone,along with the multipurposeroom and playground blacktop,and the playground was expanded.Jackson opened in 1964and is one of the older schools inLivermore.Construction began at the endof the 2006/07 school year andwas finished at the beginning ofOctober. The project was fundedthrough Measure L, a threeagencybond that Livermore voterspassed in 1999, providingfunding for school facility improvements,the Robert LivermoreCommunity Center, and theCivic Center Library.“It’s brought a breath of freshair to the school. Everything isnow so cohesive, beautiful, andclean. I love all the extra storagespace,” said Jackson kindergartenteacher Barbara Claus.Claus, who has taught at Jacksonfor 28 years, said the constructionwas not as difficult asFarmers and ranchers can nowtake advantage of an extendedapplication deadline for the EnvironmentalQuality IncentivesProgram (EQIP). The cut-off datefor 2009 EQIP contracts, originallyset for October 31, has nowbeen extended until December 5.Local producers can continue tosign up for program benefits atUSDA Natural Resources ConservationService (NRCS) officesthroughout California, includingLivermore.EQIP, a voluntary conservationprogram funded through theFarm Bill, provides financial andtechnical assistance to agriculturalproducers to help them improvetheir natural resources andland management. Since a newFarm Bill was enacted by Congressearlier this year, rules forimplementing this year’s EQIPand other programs are still beingdeveloped by officials inWashington D.C. NRCS in Californiahas chosen to extend thedeadline to allow producers tocontinue signing up for programbenefits while that rulemakingprocess is completed.In 2008, California NRCSpartnered with farmers and ranch-Photo - Doug JorgensenA spruced up Jackson Avenue Elementary School sign greetedstudents.the staff expected. “We had tomove twice, but they were finishedahead of schedule and thecrew was so nice,” she said.On hand for the grand openingwere Livermore School SuperintendentBrenda Miller, ExecutiveDirector of Student Servicesand Special Education BobSee, Executive Director of Maintenanceand Operations MikeNagle, and School Board membersBill Dunlop and AnneWhite.The school choir led the studentsin the song, “This schoolis your school” to the tune of“This land is your land,” whichhad the catchy line “Jackson wasbuilt for me and you.”To celebrate the end of the remodeling,Jackson students submittedtheir best drawings andpoetry in a school-wide contest.Deadline Extended to Sign Up forEnvironmental Incentives Programers on nearly $54 million in conservationcost share contracts.Alameda County was allocatedover $300,000 of that year’s funding.The contracts covered abroad spectrum of natural resourceenhancements includinggrazing land management; increasingirrigation efficiency;integrated pest management; riparianprotection and wildlifehabitat, and more. Assistance canbe in the form of structures suchas irrigation or livestock waterdevelopments, as well as incentivepayments for managementactivities.“This is a very important conservationprogram with huge potentialto help our farming andranching community in theirstewardship of the land,” saysNRCS Soil ConservationistMorpheus Anima. “EQIP inAlameda County is anunderutilized resource. We hopeto reach out to more of our localproducers and let them know thatthis program is available to helpmeet resource needs on theirlands.” Last year, all eligible applicationswere funded forAlameda County.Kindergartner MarcellaKumamono and first graderAbhinandan Dhingra won the K/1 coloring contest. Second graderOlivia Tabaracci and third graderAudrey Cordisco won the 2/3drawing contest. Fourth graderTaylor Potter won the fourthgrade poem contest. At the celebrationshe read her poem,which captured the din of constructionand the comparativequiet.Rankin also announced thededication of the school officeto Gerri Gibson, who was theschool secretary for 28 years.Gibson, who retired last year, wasat the ceremony, but had no ideashe was being honored.“They just told me I shouldcome today,” she said. “I’m quitehonored and touched. I reallyenjoyed the years I spent here.”To conclude the celebration,Rankin cut a large red ribbonwith the help of Student CouncilPresident Helga Forstreuter, VicePresident Claudia Bui, TreasurerIsabella Widmann, and SecretaryChloe Shubin, after which yellowand black balloons were releasedinto the air.Recyclers Entry Race to Finish in DerbyBy Victoria KamerzellSix Livermore residents competedin the Red Bull SoapboxRace in San Francisco on Oct.18, naming their team"Recylers." One of the team’smembers is a welder who createdthe vehicle from recycledchildren’s bicycles.The race was judged onspeed, showmanship and creativity.All of the soapboxes wererequired to be human poweredand weigh less than 176 pounds.Dustin Moore, 24, was theLivermore team’s driver. He saidhe entered the race because itgave him and his friends somethingdifferent to do. He wasunaware of the race’s lavishprizes including an all-expensivetrip to NASCAR. The Recyclerswere one of thirty-threeteams competing in SanFrancisco’s Mission neighborhood.In addition to participatingin the race, each team wasrequired to put together a skit.On a warm day in San Francisco,thousands of fans packedinto Dolores Park to watch therace. Although soapbox racingis historically performed by children,the Red Bull Race, namedafter the highly caffeinated beveragethe company makes, isonly open to contestants overeighteen. The crowd of 100,000,which one DJ described as unprecedented,was reflective ofthe age limitation. The audiencewas made up of clusters of hiplookingmen and women in theirtwenties along with an occasionalparent carrying a baby ina sling or pushing a brightly-coloredstroller.The fastest soapbox racer,Team Trash, broke the U.S. recordspeeding nearly forty-miles anhour down San Francisco’s notoriouslysteep hills. The Vallejoteam got their name from theirday job: all of the members ofTeam Trash work in the sanitationindustry. Team Trash builttheir soapbox to mimic the realgarbage trucks from their job.They created an educational skitto teach the audience membersabout the importance of recycling,and proper disposal oftrash.To protect the racers and givethe crowd enough space, the policeblocked off several streets.The course began at 21 st Streetand ended at 18 th Street. The Recyclers,along with several of theteams, did not build their soapboxwith brakes. Stacks oftightly packed hay were pushedagainst metal barriers to helpbreak the impact of a potentialcrash. When the team The BreakfastClub descended into the hay,their soapbox fell apart.The soapboxes came in manydifferent forms such as a Rubik’sCube that was designed to solveitself as it was moved. Three studentsfrom San Francisco Universitybuilt the Rubik’s Cube. Thedriver, Chris Foley, claims he cansolve a Rubik’s Cube in less than100 seconds. All three friendssaid they are obsessed with solvingpuzzles, and that building asoapbox that would solve itsown, seemed like the perfect challenge.Some of the other soapboxdesigns included the Star WarsDeath Star, a donut on wheels, aslice of pepperoni pizza, and theGolden Gate Bridge. The TreeHuggers, who won second place,created a model redwood treewhich the driver literally huggedas he raced it down the course.The Tree Hugger’s skit parodiedthe battle between conservationistsand loggers.Soapbox racing officiallystarted in the United States at thebeginning of the twentieth centurywhen a reporter, noting thatthe sport was popular with youngchildren in his Ohio town, startedthe children’s Soap Box Derbyin 1932. Red Bull began sponsoringraces in 2000 in Belgium.Since then Red Bull has sponsoredsoapbox races in nearlythirty countries leading to whatsome say is a revival of adult soapboxracing. The San Franciscorace was judged by a celebritypanel including the drag performerHeklina, the executivechef of Incanto and the author ofthe Offal Good food blog ChrisCosentino and professionalsurfer Jamie Sterling.Before the race I asked TheRecyclers what they would do ifthey did not win. Dustin responded,“We’ll probably justkeep on going” joking that therewere many more hills in San Franciscofor their soapbox to conquer.The Recyclers did not winthe contest. However, upon leavingthe event, another team’ssoapbox was seen being pushedthrough the street’s of the Mission.One passerby yelled out,“Did you win anything?” Theteam’s driver sheepishly answeredno as his partnerstruggled to push him through alight that had just turned green.To learn more about the RedBull Soapbox races visit theirwebsite at: http://www.redbullsoapboxusa.com.

The Independent, OCTOBER 30, 2008 - PAGE 9including a penalty shot given to the Powerin the first half. This was a true team effortwith all the Pumas looking at this game asa key to a better season. Pumas have had atough time scoring but the one goal on thisday was enough to get them past a very goodPower team. Scores: Predators 6, Patriots 1;Power 0, Pumas 1:Best Offensive Players: Bryson Sherman,Kevin Crispell, Daniel Reedy, Predators;Josh Kardos,Sabastien Sannajust, KevinRodriguez - Pumas; Best Defensive Players:Michael Roeder, Brett Lewis, Sohan Shah,Predators; Joel French, Ali Tayed, PeterHenze, Chase Torquemada - Pumas;California GymnasticsCalifornia Gymnastics Academy competedthis weekend in highly competitivemeet in Vallejo. Girls competed in level 4,5 and 6 and did a great job.LEVEL 4 Rachel Sylvester in youngerage group earned first place all around witha score of 37.775, scoring 9.1(1) on vault,9.1759(1T) on bars, 9.575(1) on beam and9.725(1) on floor. In the same age division,Emily Balicanta finished second all aroundwith a score of 36.275, receiving 9.025(6T)on vault, 9.05(3T) on bars, 8.925(4) on beamand 9.275(4) on floor. Naomi Chin took 3rdall around wit the score of 35.725 scoring9.1 (4) on vault, 9.175(1T) on bars, 8.35(6)on beam and 9.1(5) on floor. Maya Frankfinished6th all around with the score of34.975, on vault she got 9.2(3), on bars8.4(10), on beam 8.575(3) and on floor8.8(10T).In the older age group, Shannon Paynetook first place all around with the score of37.450. She scored 9.125(5) on vault, 9.2(3T)on bars, 9.35(2) on beam and 9.775(1) onfloor.Baylee Hill took second all around withthe score of 37.075. She scored 9.25(3)onvault, 9.2755(1) on bars, 9.45(1) on beamand 9.1(6) on floor. Savannah Chrupalofinished fourth all around scoring 9.275(1T)on vault, 9.25(2) on bars, 8.45(7) on beamand 9.3(2) on floor.LEVEL 5 Katarina Weissbach in themiddle age group took sixth all around withascore of 35, receiving 7.85(12) on vault,8.75(5) on bars, 9.175 (4)on beam and9.225(3) on floor. Her sister Alexandra, in theolder age group, finished second all aroundwith ascore of 36.225, scoring 8.75 (4) onvault, 9(6) on bars, 9.325(2) on beam and9.15(4) on floor.LEVEL 6 Isabella Orecchia, in theyounger age group, finished fourth all aroundwitha score of 36.85, including 9.2(8) onvault, 9.25(2T) on bars, 9(5) on beam and9.4(2T) on floor. In the older age group,Elizabeth Higa finished third with a score of36.875, receiving 9.35(4T) on vault, 9.3(1)on bars, 9.3(2T) on beam and 8.925(9) onfloor. In the same age group Celina Moufarrejfinished fifth all around with a score of35.850. scoring 8.875(9) on vault, 8.225(8)on bars, 9.3(2T) on beam and 9.45(2) onfloor. Dori Lucero finished eight with an allaround score of 35.175, and 8.85 (10) onvault, 7.475(9) on bars, 9.525(1) on beam and9.325(4) on floor.Amador Valley JV FootballIn a game that was much closer than thefinal score indicated the Amador Valley JVDons lost 51-28 to the visiting De La SalleSpartans. The game was a back-and-forthaffair, featuring six touchdowns of 50 yardsor more and another 38-yard strike.The Dons were forced into punt formationon their opening series drive after movingthe ball out to the 39 yard line. CarsonEwanich, back to punt, took a low snap anddecided to run. Before the Spartans couldreact, the speedy Ewanich had raced 61 yardsto the end zone and Amador was up 7-0.It didn’t take long for De La Salle toanswer. Taking over at their own 40, theyscored with a 60-yard run on the first playfrom scrimmage to tie the score. Things thenseemed to settle down, as Amador and De LaSalle each exchanged three-and-out punts andthe Dons got the ball back — pinned deepat their own 3 yard line. On the first play,Ewanich took the hand off in the end zone fora run up the middle. Finding no room there,he bounced to the right, the short side of thefield, and the race was on. A desperationdiving tackle nearly tripped Ewanich at theSpartan 40, but he regained his balance tocomplete the 97-yard touchdown run, puttingAmador up 14-7.With two minutes left in the half, theSpartans moved the ball down to the Dons 3yard line and were looking to tie the game.However, a penalty, a dropped pass in the endzone, and a couple of big tackles, by BrianHill and Andrew Garcia, forced De La Salleto settle for a field goal.The Dons attempted to run out the clockon the first half, but were unable to move theball and gave De La Salle the ball back at theSpartans 49 with 48 seconds remaining. TheSpartans struck on the first play, throwing adeep post pattern to an open receiver to takea 24-14 into intermission.The run of Spartans and Dons ‘big plays’continued unabated after the break. It startedwith the second half opening kickoff, a 95yard kickoff return by De La Salle to put themup 27-14. Not to be deterred, the Dons cameright back with their own big play. On the firstplay after the kickoff, Cameron Ashtiani tookthe ball at the 16 yard line and showed off hisspeed sprinting 84 yards for the touchdown.The Dons trailed by only six, 27-21.On the subsequent drive, a big Spartanrun and pass put them in scoring position atthe Dons 26 yard line. However, a botchedoption play resulted in a fumble and theopportunistic Ewanich picked up the looseball at the 30. Once again the race was on, andEwanich went the distance, returning it 70yards for his third touchdown of the game.With 7:51 left in the third period, the Donswere back on top 28-24. Unfortunately, it wasto be the last Dons score of the evening.A 38-yard Spartans touchdown pass gavethem the lead back, 31-28, with four minutesremaining in the third quarter. After the Donswent three-and-out, DLS put together a 12play time consuming drive to go up 38-28 atthe 6:40 minute mark of the fourth quarter.The game quickly got away from the Dons.De La Salle took advantage of a fumble on theDons first play – scoring two plays later fromthe twenty. A penalty kept the Dons fromgetting anything going on their next possessionand the Spartans added one more touchdown.Ewanich had a 60 yard return on theensuing kickoff to help move the ball downto the Spartans 10 yard line before timeexpired.Despite losing the game, Amador put upimpressive offensive yardage, racking up 351yards of total offense. Ewanich had 180 yardsof rushing on seven carries, a 60-yard kickoffreturn, and a 70-yard fumble recovery for atotal of 310 yards. Ashtiani, also had a bannerday, rushing for 122 yards on 10 carries.Sixteen players recorded tackles. BrianHill and Cameron Seams led the way withfour and a half each and Andrew Garciafollowed with four.Gymfinity GymnasticsThe Level 4, 5, and 6 teams fromGymfinity Gymnastics competed at theHollywood Invitational hosted by North BayAthletic Association in Vallejo, on Sunday,October 26, 2008. All of the Level 4 girlsmade it to the State Championships scheduledfor December 6th and 7th. The Level 5and 6 ladies qualified to go to Zones in hopesof making it to the Level 5 and 6 StateChampionships to be held later in November.Level 4 - Younger: VAULT: PaigeChew, 9th, 8.9; Megan Hebert, 12thT, 8.85;Kaylee Brist, 12thT, 8.85. BARS: Chew,6th, 9.15; Hebert, 8th, 8.7; Brist, 9th, 8.5.BEAM: Chew, 4th, 8.375; Hebert, 5th,8.325; Brist, 14th, 7.125. FLOOR: Brist,4th, 8.75; Chew, 6th, 8.65; Hebert, 8th, 8.6.ALL-AROUND: Chew, 5th, 35.075; Hebert,8th, 34.475; Brist, 10th, 33.225. Middle:VAULT: Jessica Biggs, 11th, 9.0. BARS:Biggs, 10th, 8.75. BEAM: Biggs, 7th, 8.3.FLOOR: Biggs, 12th, 8.7. ALL-AROUND:Biggs, 11th, 34.75.Level 5 - Younger: VAULT: KatieMathers, 10th, 8.175. BARS: Mathers,10th, 7.65. BEAM: Mathers, 8th, 8.675.FLOOR: Mathers, 11th, 8.825. ALL-AROUND: Mathers, 10th, 33.325. Middle:VAULT: Mariel Chiong, 14th, 8.1. BARS:Chiong, 8th, 8.7. BEAM: Chiong, 14th,8.025. FLOOR: Chiong, 13th, 8.6. ALL-AROUND: Chiong, 14th, 33.125. Older:punting, the ball to the Colts 17 yard line. TheColts moved the ball to their 42 before RaiderCB Trevor Berryman intercepted a pass andreturned it 10 yards. The Raiders were heldto 4 & out. The Raider D returned the favorand forced the Colts out in 4. On the Colts27 yard line it took only 2 plays before RaiderRB Kane “The Rabbit” Millerstrom foundhis hole and pickeds up 6. The Colts refusedto give up and capped off a 63 yard march tothe end zone for 6 with a pass completion thatstunned the Raider D. After a 4 & out for bothteams the clock ran out ending the last regularseason game in a tie.Steelers vs. the Saints: The last regularseason game of the Senior Division saw theSteelers & Saints battle it out. After severalposessions for each side, the Steeler D forceda quick Saints punt fielded by RB Joshua Yuwho returned it to the Saints' 20 yard line. TheSteeler QB Kyle Moreno connected with RBZack Wilhite in the back of the end zone forthe 1 st score of the game. Again the Steeler Dforced a Saints punt then take a knee to endthe half. The Steelers started the 2 nd half going3 & out only to have the punt blocked. TheSaints picked up a quick 1 st down on 2 playsthen fumbled the ball, which was recoveredby Steeler LB Sumner Huston. The Saints Dforced the Steelers to another 3 & a punt. TheSaints returned the punt to the Steelers 16yard line, four plays later the Saints added 6.The Steelers came right back when RB JoshuaYu got to the outside and ran 40 yards to pickup 6 of his own. Steeler D-lineman BillyRodgers recovered Saints' second fumble ofthe game. It only takes 3 plays before RBJoshua Yu got around the outside taking theball 47 yards for his 2 nd 6 of the day. TheSaints offense came up with a little trickery,picking up 40 yards on a pass play that caughtthe Steeler D off guard, 2 plays later the Saintswere in for their 2 nd TD and the 2 point PAT.The Saints D got the ball back for their offensewith 1:46 left to play but the Steeler D refusedto let this one get away and quickly shutdownthe Saints forcing them out in 4. The Steelerstook a knee to end the game with a win. 20-14Bowling NewsLauretta Hammer, in the Monday GetawayFours League, rolled 183 pins overseries average with games of 226-214-226ending with a 666 series at the Granada Bowlin Livermore. Steve Mason, in the FridayCheyenne League, bowled 135 pins overaverage with games of 255-300-222 for a 777series.Kevin Nix, in the Getaway Fours, rolled82 over average with a high game of 242. DickBraden, in the Balhorn/O’Dell ConstructionLeague, bowled a 243 game. In the ModifiedGuys & Dolls,e Billy McClain had a nice setof 290-258-214 for a 762 series; EricWilliford rolleda 263 game; Martin Allena113 over series with games of 204-222-236.In the Kings & Queens, Craig Truscottbowled exactly 100 pins over series averagewith games of 179-210-212. Joe Palmerrolled 56 over average with a 209 game. JoeFioretti was 84 pins over average with a 219game. In the Reno Gamblers, Frank Danneilbowled a 237 game. Scott Hylton, in theCheyenne League, turned in a 268 game,Kristen Moore 725 series with a 276 game,Darin Smith a 771 series with games of 258-245-268, Dave DeBus 108 over series withhigh game of 255, Donna Mason a 226 gameand Khris Hamilton, with a 132 average, a205 game.Senior bowler John Foscalina bowled a602 series including games of 182-186-234.In the same league, Mike Miller rolled a 223game, Bob Stein 233 and Otis Farris a 220.In the Sirs & Sirettes League, Alma Taasevigenrecorded a 234 game.Girls LacrosseGirls New Player Lacrosse Festival forgirls in grades 1 to 8 will be held Sun., Nov.16 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Thomas Hart MiddleSchool in Pleasanton. Cost is $39 (includesstick & ball).Registration is now open atwww.pleasantonlacrosse.com Questions?Kelly French at troynkelly@aol.com. Spring2009 registration is now openPGSL Registration2009 Registration is open for all divisionsin the Pleasanton Phantom Girls SoftballLeague. All girls living in Pleasanton,Dublinand Sunol are eligible to playPGSLsoftball. Two ways to register: 1)Online at www.pleasantonsoftball.org; 2)Mail-in: PGSL, P.O. Box 911, Pleasanton,CA94566 (download a registration formfrom our website). For more information orquestions you can email Nancy Costa atPleasanton LL SignupLittle League registration for all threeleagues in Pleasanton. Go to Sportability.com/pll or walk up registration at the PleasantonSports Park; or Sunday 11/2 – 11-2 at thelibrary.Sharks TicketsThe Livermore Area Recreation and ParkDistrict is selling San Jose Sharks hockeytickets for the upcoming season. All ticketsare $51 and located in the Upper Reservedsection.Available tickets are: 7:30 p.m. Saturday,Jan. 17, vs. Detroit Red Wings; 7 p.m.Saturday, March 14, vs. Los Angeles Kings;an d7 p.m. Saturday, April 4, vs. AnaheimDucks.To reserve tickets, please call LARPD at925-373-5700.Little League SignupRegistration for the 2009 Season of allthree Livermore Little Leagues will take placeon Saturday, November 15 at the LivermoreHigh School Student Union. All players ages5-18 are welcome. The hours of registrationare 10 am to 2 pm. New players need to bringproof of residency and birth certificate. Checklocal league’s websites for further details.Livermore National- www.lnll.us, LivermoreAmerican- www.eteamz.com/lall,Granada- www.eteamz.com/granadall.VAULT: Rachel Pombo, 12th, 7.95; ChelseaWerner, 13th, 6.8. BARS: Pombo, 10th,8.375; Werner, 13th, 6.0. BEAM: Pombo,11th, 8.325; Werner, 13th, 6.0. FLOOR:Pombo, 12th, 8.05; Werner, 13th, 6.25.ALL-AROUND: Pombo, 11th, 32.7; Werner,13th, 25.05.Level 6 - Middle: VAULT: SaraVukojevic, 7th, 8.4. BARS: Vukojevic,10th, 8.0. BEAM: Vukojevic, 10th, 7.625.FLOOR: Vukojevic, 10th, 8.6. ALL-AROUND: Vukojevic, 10th, 32.625.Edge GymnasticsEdge Gymnastics of Dublin competed inthe 2008 Hollywood Invitational, October26, hosted bybNorth Bay Athletic Association.Level th – Division – Younger: Vault:Gabriela Levya-Montiel, 4th, 9.200; SkylarRelova, 12th, 8.600; Jennifer Dawson, 15th,8.075; Bars: Relova, 2nd, 9.300; Levya-Montiel, 4th, 9.200; Dawson, 6th, 9.150;Beam: Relova, 1st, 9.200; Levya-Montiel,3rd, 9.150; Dawson, 13th, 8.150; Floor:Relova, 3rd , 9.275 Dawson, 4th, 9.225;Levya-Montiel, 5th, 9.175; All Around:Levya-Montiel, 2nd, 36.725; Relova, 3rd,36.375; Dawson, 11th, 3 th.600Division – Middle: Vault: Serena Chan,2nd, 9.150; Amanda Czetli, 3rd, 9.125;Danielle Mullins, 12th, 8.550; BriannaLonderee, 14th,8; Bars: Chan, 2nd, 9.300;Czetli, 3rd, 9.225; Londeree, 5th, 9.175;Mullins, 9th, 8.950; Beam: Czetli, 2nd (T),9.025; Mullins, 4th, 9.000; Londeree, 5th,8.950; Chan, 13th, 8. th25; Floor: Chan, 1st,9.350; Mullins, 3rd, 9.300; Londeree, 4th,9.225; Czetli, 15th, 8.150; All Around:Chan, 3rd, 36.225; Mullins, 5th, 35.800;Londeree, 6th, 35.775; Czetli, 9th, 35.525.Pleasanton Jr. FootballPleasanton Junior Football Leaguescores:The Seahawks turned in one of theirbetter all-around games of the season, as theybattled to a 14-6 win over the Redskins,claiming the top seed for the upcomingPleasanton Junior Football League Seniorplayoffs. The Seahawks defense allowed butthe six points, getting outstanding play froma number of players. Linebackers ParkerDalton, Cale Rubinson and Ray Bartolomucciled the way with sensational efforts. LinemanNate Vickers set up with first Seahawks scorewhen he picked off a batted Redskins pass.Grant Soyka and James Frair were all overthe Redskins defensive backfield throughoutthe game, forcing the Skins quarterback intoa pair of interceptions. Alex Jadar, Vickersand Kevin Miller (playing his first game ondefense) did a nice job of slowing down thepowerful Redskins running game.With the defense clicking, it was up to theoffense to get it down when they had theirchances. And they did just that. QuarterbackNick Mendonca scored the first touchdownfor the Hawks, following the big and strongoffensive line of Miller, Vickers, Tyler Rains,Soyka, Ryan Walsh and Usman Khan. Tightend Harrison Heiser had a great game goingup against the big Redskins defensive ends.The win sends the Seahawks into the playoffsas the top seed where they will face the toughSaints, a team much stronger than their 1-6mark. A win this week would send theSeahawks into the championship game,which will be played Nov. 8 at Casey LewisStadium.Jaguars vs. Falcons: In a game whichwas much closer than the final score indicates,the Jaguars completed the regular season witha 44-12 win over the league’s most improvedteam, the Falcons in Pleasanton Junior FootballLeague JV actionThe first half of the the game was a battleback and forth, as both offensive units movedthe ball up and down the field in the battlebetween the 5-1 Jags and the 1-5 Falcons.The key for the Jags was twice stoppingthe conversion attempts of the Falcons for a16-12 lead in the second quarter. The Falconsmoved the ball better on the Jags defensebetter than any team in the league has donethis season.Running back Javon Kemp created problemsfor the Jags defense and the two teamsbattled throughout the first half.In the second half, the Jags were finallyable to pull away from their tough opponents,thanks in large part to the play of AnthonyIrizarry. Irizarry scored a pair of touchdownson long runs, then threw two more touchdownson halfback option passes, both thespeedy Connor Caspersen.Nick Reyes scored the first touchdownof the game on a 65 yard run down the leftsideline on the games first play for the Jagsand fullback Josh Miller added the othertouchdown for the Jags.The offensive line of Jacob Blair, AaronBanks, Jacob Wilson, JP Pasteur, NickPasteur and Chase Barkdull turned in greatperformances.Sean Thomas and Reyes added a fewconversions for the Jags who moved to 6-1.The PJFL Senior 49ers put in a strongdefensive effort along with an offense thattook advantage short fields to post a 22-6 winover the Raiders in flag football action. TheNiners defense limited the Raiders to a pairof first downs and intercepted three passes inthe win.The defense held the Raiders to a fourand-outon the Raiders first drive; the Ninerstaking over on the Raiders 30. Alec Hillmanran for 20 on first down to get down to the10 and then, three plays later scored aroundright end, squeezing into the corner. Theconversion was unsuccessful and 49ers led 6-0.On the ensuing drive, Kevin Murphyintercepted a pass and nearly ran it back fora score, getting stopped on the Raiders eight.On the first play, Trent Kravitz went aroundright end for the score. This time the conversion,a short pass to Kevan Knaggs, wascomplete for a 14-0 lead.The Raiders answered with a drive of theirown to narrow the score to 14-6 at intermission.Murphy got his second pick of the gameto start the second half and the Niners wereonce again in business at the Raiders 35.Kravitz went left for 25 yards on first down.After losing four on the next play, Kravitzfound Knaggs over the middle and the bigguard found his way into right side of the endzone. The conversion from Kravitz to AdamAlviso provided the final margin of victory.On the remaining drives, Aaron Silvaposted a couple of nice runs, good for 27yards, behind the blocking of Austin Simmonsand Josh Spaugh, but the Niners couldn’t getinto the end zone again.The PJFL brought the Colts to theRaiders for their 3rd match up in the intermediatedivision. In the first offensive series,the Colts moved the ball 34 yards beforeRaiders safety R. Landsman had a deflectedpass land in his arms. After a 35 yard returnand 15 more on a penalty the Raiders' offensetook the field only to go 4 & out. There wasno scoring in the first half. The 2nd halfstarted with the Raiders going 3 and outOrganizations wishing to run notices inBulletin Board, send information to PO Box1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care ofBulletin Board. Include name of organization,meeting date, time, place and theme orsubject. Phone number and contact personshould also be included.Golden Circle Seniors Annual Bazaar,Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 4th and5th from 9am to 3 pm. at the RobertLivermore Community Center, 4444 EastAvenue, Livermore. Most items are handmadeby this local group and include: babyitems, kitchen items, scarves, hats, shoppingbags, doilies, wine bottle covers, lap robes,and many more items all at reasonable prices.Again this year, Grandma’s closet will beopen for some slightly used treasures andtrivia.Birds of Brushy Peak, hike on BrushyPeak led by Anthony Fisher 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.,Sunday, November 9. This landscape oftenproduces great views of eagle, hawks andfalcons. www.ebparks.org 1 -888-EBPARKS.Trick or Treat, Rosewood GardensSenior Living will host their annual safe trickor treating party on Fri., Oct. 31 from 6 to 8p.m. Bring your little ones out to trick or treatwith our friendly elderly residents. Candyand delicious refreshments provided. Costumecontest for all age groups. RosewoodGardens is located at 35 Fenton Street inLivermore.25th Annual Holiday Home Tour,Sun., Dec. 7, hosted by Soroptimist Internationalof Livermore. Five beautiful homeselegantly decorated for the holidays will beopen to you from 11:00 AM -3:00 PM.Tickets are $25 per person tax deductible. Allthe money collected goes to support localcommunity projects benefiting women andchildren. The tour begins at Alden LaneNursery, 981 Alden Lane, Livermore. Foradvanced tickets make checks payable to SILand mail to: Soroptomist International ofLivermore, P.O. Box 812, Livermore, CA94550. Tickets will be available at Proctor’sCustom Framing, 2200 First Street, or fromany Soroptimist member. Tickets may alsobe purchased the day of the tour at Alden LaneNursery. Raffle tickets will be sold for cashprizes and gift baskets. For more informationplease call President Anita Thompson, 925-449-0612, or Charlotte Newman, 925-449-4079. For information about Soroptimistplease go to www.sifounderregion.org.Trail Adventures (Save Mount Diablo),Sun., Nov. 2, races starts at 9 a.m. Half-Marathon, 10K Run, and Family Hike beginningat Castle Rock Park in Walnut Creek,climbing the fire roads up the slopes of MountDiablo and finishing at Castle Rock. Theevent includes pre and post race entertainmentby a live band and lunch for all participants.Fee $40.00 for all events. Day of registrationsopen at 7:00am all events start at 9:00 am.www.savemountdiablo.orgPleasantonians 4 Peace is again sponsoringa candlelight vigil in front of theMuseum on Main, 603 Main Street, downtownPleasanton, November 12, Wednesday,at 7 PM. The Vigil will be followed immediatelyby a peaceful march to City Hall.Participants will reflect on the human andmonetary costs of the war, honor veteranswho have sacrificed, and visualize ways ofmoving beyond this conflict to a morepeaceful world. This is monthly event, thesecond Wednesday of the month, as long asnecessary.Handling the Holidays, Hope Hospicebereavement program offers two sessions tocope with the holidays following the loss ofa loved one. Nov. 5, 6:30 p.m. Hope HospiceBereavement Center, 6500 Dublin Blvd.,Suite 214; 829-8770. Nov. 7, 10 a.m.,Pleasanton Senior Center, 5353 Sunol Blvd.Please RSVP to Hope Hospice at 829-8770.The Livermore Community ThanksgivingDinner is having a planning /volunteermeeting. If you are interested in helpingout, please attend on Wednesday, November12th at 7 p.m., in the Bothwell Center at 8thand H streets. Volunteer sign-ups will beginat this meeting. For more information pleasecheck our website: www.LCTD.orgLivermore Adult Education instructorssought, is in the process of creating itsWinter/Spring class schedule. Specificallysought are instructors for Tai Chi, Italian,dance, and beginning Spanish. Those with atalent or skill to share please call, 925-606-4722. Need not be credentialed to apply.Widowed Men and Women of NorthernCA., general meeting Tues., Nov. 4, 1:30p.m. at the Dublin Library. Lt. Liz Greshamfrom the San Ramon Police Department willbe the guest speaker. She will bring a new"taser" to demonstrate, and discuss holidaysafety. Happy hour in Pleasanton at theSheraton Hotel, Fri., Nov. 7, 5 p.m., RSVPto Lorraine at 846-5695 by Nov. 6. Birthdaydinner at Hilton Restaurant in PleasantonSat., Nov. 8, 5 p.m., RSVP to Marge, 828-5124 by Nov. 6. Reminder: reservations forthe Christmas party with payment to Athenedue by Nov. 14.Valley Spokesmen Bicycle TouringClub, Sat., Nov. 1, 47 miles Dublin toCastro Valley, meet 9 a.m. at ShannonCenter, Peter Rathmann, 828-1973. Sun.,Nov. 2, 55 miles St. Helena, Lake Hennessey,Lake Beryessa and Pope Valley, meet 9 a.m.on Church Street, Don Carpenter, 228-1096.Wed., Nov. 5, 25 miles to Moraga, meet 9a.m. at Heather Farms, Pete and SharonCulshaw, 932-0790.The Barn Bash, hosted by DiscoveryChurch of the Nazarene, Sat., Nov. 8, 4 to 8p.m. 3131 Pacific Ave., Livermore. Activitiesfor all ages including children's games,chili cook-off, karaoke, cake walk, and snackbar. Free admission. All are welcome.Jose Maria Amador Chapter, D.A.R.,Daughters of the American Revolution,meeting 9:30 a.m. Sat., Nov. 8. Members aredescended from Patriots of the RevolutionaryWar of Independence from England. Prospectivemembers are always welcome. For moreinformation and meeting location, contactSusan at 699-4147.Coping with the Holidays when dealingwith cancer, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 13,ValleyCare Medical Plaza, 5725 W. LasPositas Blvd., Suite 240, Pleasanton. Examineways to set priorities and delegate responsibilitiesand learn simple relaxation techniques.Free. Reservations are required. Forinformation, call The Wellness Community,933-0107.Blast from the Past Singles Dance,Sat., Nov. 8, 8 p.m. to midnight, MarriottHotel, 11950 Dublin Blvd., Pleasanton.Hosted by the Society of Single Professionals,dance to the hits of the 60s and 70s. $20at the door. Information, visitwww.ThePartyHotline, or call 415-507-9962.Book Sale, Friends of the LivermoreLibrary will hold their monthly book sale onSunday, November 2, from 12:00 noon to 4p.m. in front of the former Library at 1000South Livermore Avenue in Livermore. Fictionand nonfiction books, magazines andaudiovisuals are sold at deep discountedprices and there will be a table of free books.From 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. books will be sold for$ 2.00 a shopping bag full of books.Amador Valley Quilt Guild, meetsSaturday, November 8, at 1:30 p.m. at thePleasanton Middle School, 5001 Case Avenue,Pleasanton. This meeting will featureEllen Anne Eddy presenting a lecture onThread Magic. She is one of the premierthread artists in the country. The guild is anonprofit educational association for quiltersof all skill levels. Anyone interested inquilting may attend. For further informationabout the guild or upcoming speakers, pleasevisit http://amadorvalleyquilters.org.Holiday Boutique, Heritage Estates,Senior Retirement Community, 900 EastStanley Blvd., Livermore. Fri. and Sat.,Nov. 7th and 8th 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days.Handcrafted holiday gifts exclusively madeby senior residents. There will be uniquehandbags, beautiful blankets and scarves,custom jewelry, holiday ornaments, etc.There will also be home baked goods andcandies. For more information call 925-518-5752 Bingo, The Pleasanton Seahawks alongwith the Buena Vista Home is hosting bingoon November 8th at Livermore Bingo Ranch.Bingo Ranch is located 851 Rincon Ave,Livermore. Please call 925 606-7777 formore information. Bingo begins at 6:30 p.m.Parenting Your Aging Parent, class isfor current and future caregivers of agingparents or other relatives and will providesupport, information, and resources. RuthGasten, a Valley parent educator for over 35years, who cared for her mother until her deathat the age of 95, will facilitate the class. Theclass will meet on the third Wednesday of themonth from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. You mayattend any or all of the sessions. On Wednesday,October 15, the class will be held inRoom G-1 at Amador High School. OnNovember 19 and December 17, the classwill be held in the Amador High SchoolLibrary Conference Room B. Register bycalling Amador Valley Adult Education at426-4280, or come to the first class and signin. Singles dance, single professionals ofall ages are invited to meet new friends wholove to dance to the greatest hits from the 60sand 70s, Saturday, November 8, 8pm-Midnight,at the Marriott Hotel, 11950 DublinCanyon Rd, Pleasanton. This party is sponsoredby The Society of Single Professionals,the world’s largest non-profit singles organization.The cost is $20 at the door. Anyonewishing more information about this andmany more parties may visitwww.ThePartyHotline.com or call 415/507-9962.Shop ‘Til You Drop Holiday Boutique,Wednesday, November 5, from 6-9pm at Vintage Hills Elementary School,1125 Concord Street in Pleasanton. Severallocal vendors will showcase items that areperfect for gift giving. Hand made jewelry,unique clothing and accessories, home decor,beauty products, kid’s educational items, andmuch more. Drawings for raffle prizes willtake place during the evening. Refreshmentswill be available.Spooktacular time at Forest HomeFarms, hearing stories, singing songs, doinga craft and enjoying some refreshments! Afterthe program participants can visit the pumpkinpatch! Storytime with the Farmer will beheld on Thursday, October 30, from 10 a.m.to 11 a.m. Children must be accompanied byan adult. Only children need to register. Preregisterby calling the San Ramon CommunityCenter at (925) 973-3200 or online atwww.sanramonrecguide.com (SR residentsonly). Cost is $4 for residents and $5 for nonresidents.Activity #56165, Ages 3-5. Spaceis limited. Forest Home Farms is located at19953 San Ramon Valley Boulevard, SanRamon, just south of Pine Valley Road.Wine for a Cure, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation,in collaboration with Zephyr Grilland Bar, Sunday, November 9. The night willshowcase wine from the Livermore Valleyand paired with local culinary dishes. TheWine for a Cure event will raise money toprovide funds for the research necessary tofind a cure for cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosisis a fatal, genetic disease that affects over30,000 children and young adults in theUnited States. The evening will includesilent and live auctions. Tickets http://nca.cff.org/wineforacure, information 415-989-6500.Ohlone Audubon, meets 7:30 p.m.Tues., Nov. 4, Casa Sandoval, 1200 RussellWay, Hayward. Bill Bousman will discuss"Breeding Birds of Santa Clara County,"Santa Clara Audubon's recent publication.Refreshments. Information, call 510-507-3383.Totally 80s, Smith Elementary School,Livermore presents an Autumn Treasures,annual dinner, dance and auction, Nov. 7 at6 p.m. at the Palm Event Center in Pleasanton.Tickets at www.smithelementary.org.ValleyCare Auxiliary Holiday Boutique,The ValleyCare Auxiliary will holdtheir annual Holiday Boutique on Thursday,Friday and Saturday, November 6, 7 and 8 inthe main lobby at ValleyCare Medical Centerin Pleasanton; and Monday, November 17 inthe lobby of LifeStyleRx in Livermore.Featuring holiday décor and specialty giftitems from the Auxiliary Gift Shops, theHoliday Boutique offers an opportunity tofind those special gifts, and at the same timesupport your community hospital. Boutiquehours 7am - 7pm; Saturday 8am-3pm.Donlon Elementary Annual HolidayBoutique will be held Saturday, November8, from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. 4150 DormanRd., Pleasanton (behind Lucky’s). Shopwith a variety of vendors and handcrafters.Raffle tickets will be on sale from 9 am-2:15pm each prize is valued at $25 or more..Raffles will be drawn at 2:30 pm. All raffleproceeds benefit Donlon Elementary School.For more info, email Patty atDonlonAHB@comcast.net.RELIGION10 Great Dates, Couples seeking toenrich their marriage experience can join 10Great Dates any Saturday evening throughNov. 15 at Centerpointe Church in Pleasanton.Sessions begin at 6 p.m. with a videopresentation covering the evening’s discussion.Couples leave by 6:30 p.m. for theirdate. All evenings are designed to stand aloneso there is no attendance requirement. Complimentarychild-care is provided for childrennine and under. The fee is $20 for theworkbook that covers the 10 sessions. Foradditional information, please callCenterpointe at 925-846-4436 or seewww.centerpointechurch.info.Mass of Remembrance, celebrated at7:30 p.m. on Nov. 3 at St. Elizabeth Seton,4001 Stoneridge Dr., Pleasanton. Bring asmall picture or memento.Community Service of Remembrance,Fri., Nov. 14, 7:30 p.m. St. Philip LutheranChurch, 8850 Davona Dr., Dublin. Hostedby Hope Hospice. Event includes candlelighting ceremony, reflection and music.Potluck will follow. Candles are $5 each.Information, call Hope Hospice at 829-8770or email info@hopehospice.com.Tri-Valley Unity Church, “Old Turtle’sWisdom” is the topic of Rev. Steve Maynard’sSunday morning lesson on Nov. 2. Meetingat the Radisson Hotel, 6680 Regional St.,Dublin, at 10 a.m. The service will includea readers’ theater by the church youth. Ongoinggroups and classes, as well. All arewelcome. (925) 829-2733,www.trivalleyunity.com.Winners in the Furry Faces Pet Photo Calendar Contest are nowposted on-line. The project is a fundraiser for Valley Humane Society.Photo entries were accepted September 1st thru October 1st.There were 113 photos entered in the contest. Judges selected 50 tobe put on the website for online voting. Then for two weeks startingOctober 8th through the 22nd, people could vote online at thewebsite www.valleyhumane.org for their favorite pet photos. Eachvote equaled a dollar donation. Participants could enter as manyvotes for each photo as they wished.Each day brought in anywhere from 66 to 622 votes, that is,until the final day, when over 1700 votes came pouring in all dayand night. Gina Rutigliano, creator of the calendar contest, stayedat work until all hours of the night tallying votes and updating theweb page every few minutes.“There was some real competition going on,” she said. “And it’sall for a great cause.”When midnight finally hit, the voting page came off and a slideshow of the 13 winners went live.Calendars are available for pre-purchase for $20 each. They willbe available sometime in November. The price will go up to $25 onDecember 1st.To purchase calendars or for more information on Valley HumaneSociety, go to www.valleyhumane.org or call 925-426-8656Tuesday through Saturday, 11am to 5pm.Pet Photo Contest WinnersCan Be Seen Online

PAGE 10 - The Independent, OCTOBER 30, 2008Photo - Doug JorgensenAntonio Rodriguez III, as the Engineer, stands in front of astatue of Ho Chi Minh.Vietnam Era Musical a HitAt the Bankhead TheaterBy Janet ArmantroutIt’s not every day that a full-size helicopter replica descends on astage. However, the Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre production of"Miss Saigon" included just that.Miss Saigon opens the musical theater season for the company.Performances are at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore.The story is a Vietnam era version of Puccini's "Madame Butterfly."Director John Baiocchi has done a good job in bringing outthe various themes: love can happen between unlikely people inunlikely places, war has consequences beyond the end of the fighting,and a mother who is willing to make sacrifices for her child.The production drew a standing ovation from the opening nightcrowd.The play opens just weeks before the turmoil of the Americanevacuation of Saigon in 1975. The first scene takes place in a seedynightclub in Saigon. It is a place where GIs go to get-away from warand where the workers dream of just getting away.A yearning on the part of the bar girls is expressed in the song,"Movie in My Mind," that includes a desire to find "a world faraway, where life is not unkind."While at the bar, Chris (Ronald Houk), an American G.I., meetsand falls for Kim (Kelly Park), a young Vietnamese woman from thecountryside who has just arrived in Saigon and is working at thenightclub. Chris is both distressed and surprised at finding happinessamidst the brutalities of war. He sings, "I liked my memoriesthe way they were. Now, I'll have to remember her - just her."Chris is forced to return to the states without Kim. He eventuallymarries Ellen (Morgan Breedveld). Kim, who is still in Saigon withtheir son that Chris is unaware exists, dreams of reuniting with Chrisand having their son become an American citizen. She eventuallyescapes from Vietnam and ends up in the red light district ofBangkok, where Chris and his wife find her.One of the moving moments focuses on the children fathered byGIs who were left behind. "War isn't over when it's over" includesthe message that the children left behind are living reminders of allwe failed to do. It is sung by a former GI, John (Alex Orenberg), whois now working to protect the children. Photos of children are projectedon the screen behind him.Another scene of intensity is "The American Dream," theEngineer's vision of all the wondrous things he'll find if he reachesAmerica. The Engineer is the proprietor of the various nightclubswhere Kim works. Antonio Rodriguez III portrays the Engineer, anopportunist who works to make things happen to his advantage.The cast is excellent, with the voices needed to perform an allmusical play.Performances continue 8 pm Fridays/Saturdays and 2 pm Sundaysthrough Nov 9, at the Bankhead Theater, 2400 First Street,Livermore.Tickets are $35 for adults (18-60), $33 for seniors (60+), and $25for juniors (under 18). There is a substantial discount for groupspurchasing 20 or more tickets. Note that the Bankhead Theater willadd a facility fee to the price of each ticket. Tickets can be purchasedat the Bankhead Theater box office, online atwww.livermoreperformingarts.org.or by calling 925-373-6800.It should be noted that the performance contains material that issexual.Children of Winter on Nov. 6Warren Miller's "Children ofWinter," the largest action sportsfilm, will be shown at theBankhead Theater on Thurs.,Nov. 6 at 8 p.m.The film is presented in highdefinitionand narrated by skiingicon Jonny Moseley. Thisyear’s film takes the viewer on aescape to global destinations, includingJapan, Austria, Iceland,and more. Included issnowboarding’s Olympic GoldMedalist Seth Westcott chargingdown the Alaskan backcountry,surf legend Gerry Lopez shredingthe Oregon steeps, and ChrisAnthony taking on LeadvilleColorado’s legendary Skijoringcompetition.Tickets are $18. They can bepurchased by calling925.373.6800 or online atwww.bankheadtheater.org or atthe theater box office, BankheadTheater, 2400 First Street, DowntownLivermore, CA 94550Gem Artist to PresentProgram in LivermoreAward winning Artist GlennLehrer will present a special programfor the Livermore ValleyLithophiles Gem and MineralClub.The program will be Wed.,Nov. 5 starting at 7:30 p.m. inthe community meeting room atthe Livermore Civic Center Library,1188 So. Livermore Avenue.The public is welcome.There is no admission charge.Lehrer is internationally recognizedas one of the finest gemstonecarvers of our time. Hisfluid gemstone carvings and preciselyfaceted stones are featuredin custom, fine jewelry and exquisitegemstone sculpturesaround the world.A graduate gemologist, he haswon 10 awards for his jewelryand gemstone designs: sevenCutting Edge Awards and oneSpectrum Award from (AGTA) theAmerican Gem Trade Association;the NITCH Award; and anaward from the prestigious Idar-Oberstein Carvers and EngraversAssociation in Germany. Hisaward winning gemstones andjewelry designs have appearedon the cover of thirteen majorjewelry publications, and numerousarticles have been written describinghis craftsmanship. Fourof his carvings have been featuredin the Modern Jewelers’Gem Profile collection.Lehrer has pioneered some ofthe world’s largest gemstonesculptures. The grandest andmost technically challenging isBahia, a 5-foot, 450 poundquartz crystal with golden rutileneedles, comprised of threepieces cut from a single 800-pound quartz crystal. It hangslike a jewel pendant, suspended30 feet from the ceiling by twothin (3/16”) steel cables. Knownas: “The World’s Largest Pendant,”it is on display in thelobby of the Gemological Instituteof America campus inCarlsbad, CA. Bahia was createdin collaboration with LawrenceStoller, and has been on exhibitionat the Carnegie Museum inPittsburgh, PA., and the Los AngelesMuseum of Natural History.Senior Players Present Comedy,Melodrama in PleasantonThe Pleasanton Senior Players are back on center stage with theirannual comedy production, slated to run Friday, November 7 throughSunday, November 9 at the Pleasanton Senior Center, located at 5353Sunol Boulevard.This year, the show opens with “So Nice Not to See You” about anauthor and her secretary working in a Bahamas retreat. The eveningcontinues with “Heaven Will Protect the Working Girl," a melodramafull of colorful characters and venomous villains.Showtimes are 7 p.m. Fri., Nov. 7 and 2 p.m. Sat., Nov. 8 and Sun.,Nov. 9. Tickets are $9-$11 and may be purchased either in advancedor at the door. For more information, please call (925) 931-5365.From left to right are Talk Hawks Stacy Shaw, Tiffany Lee, JessicaPadula, Natalie Kellner, Jacquie De Fremery, and Katie Philpott.Not pictured: Anthony PasseroTalk Hawks Come with AwardsThe Las Positas College TalkHawks won first place at the recent2008 Santa Rosa InvitationalSpeech and Debate Tournament.Their scores earned themthe title of number one speechteam in the tournament. Theyoutperformed teams from SanFrancisco State University, SanJose State University, Chico StateUniversity, and several communitycolleges."Over the past few years ourstudents have set a very high standardfor themselves on the forensicsstage. Each year they continueto outperform their ownexpectations," said Tim Heisler,instructor and Talk Hawks advisor."These students have workedhard to keep Las Positas Collegecompetitive with major universities.We are all very proud ofthem."The Talk Hawks won 17awards in the 20 events they participatedin. Three of the tournamentstop four speakers werefrom Las Positas College. In additionto individual honors theTalk Hawks also won thetournament's 1st place SweepstakesAward. The following studentswon awards:Brentwood, Natalie Kellner4th Place - Open Dramatic InterpretationCastro Valley, Stacy Shaw 1stPlace - Open Speech to Entertain1st Place - Open InformativeSpeaking 1st Place - Open CommunicationAnalysis 2nd TopSpeaker of the TournamentDublin, Anthony Passero 4thPlace - Novice Persuasive Speaking5th Place - Novice ImpromptuSpeakingLivermore, Jacquie DeFremery 1st Place - Open PersuasiveSpeaking 2nd Place - OpenInformative SpeakingKatie Philpott 1st Place - OpenImpromptu Speaking 3rd Place -Open Communication Analysis3rd Place - Open PersuasiveSpeaking 3rd Place - Open ExtemporaneousSpeaking 3rd TopSpeaker of the TournamentPleasanton, Tiffany Lee 2ndPlace - Open Persuasive Speaking4th Place - Open InformativeSpeaking 4th Place - Open CommunicationAnalysis 5th Place -Open Poetry Interpretation 4thTop Speaker of the TournamentJessica Padula 4th Place -Open Speech to EntertainART EXHIBITIONS OPENAn exhibition with the theme, "Mayan Mexico and More," willbe on display in the Livermore Library, Nov. 1-30. The exhibitionwill feature drawings, paintings and photographs by CharlotteSeverin and artists Kathleen Elin, June Ferreri, Carole Hilton,Mary Ann Johnston, Renee Rollins, Jerry Severin and JustinTrent from their March 2008 trip to various locations in Mexico.There will be a reception on Sat., Nov. 1 from 2 to 4 p.m. Thepublic is invited to attend. There is no admission charge. Thelibrary is located at 1188 So. Livermore Ave. For information,call 373-5500. Pictured is "Mt. Alban," a watercolor by CharlotteSeverin.Alexander’s Fine Art will hostits first Disney Fine Art eventintroducing the work of RodelGonzalez. Opening will be Sat.,Nov. 1 from 3 to 6 p.m. Rodelwill hand-embellish six Never-Before- Seen limited editionreleases exclusively atAlexander’s Fine Art. Thereception will be at 608 MainSt., under the Pleasanton arch.RSVP by calling 846-6015 orsending an email toalexandersgallery@sbcglobal.net.The event is free and open tothe public.Textile Show atGalleryThe Livermore Art AssocationGallery will feature the textilesof Caryne Finlay-Mount duringthe montha of November.Caryne specializes in coutureart-wear garments. She also designscostumes for the LivermoreValley Dance Theatre. Her worksuse original fabrics from silk kimonoand obi, as well as handdyedpieces featuring ecofriendlybamboo fiber.Caryne is inspired by localvineyards and the ocean. Shesays, “The wonderful yarns availableeasily translate to creaturesof the sea, thus many of my texture-laden,hand-knitted scarvesare named after creatures of thesea.”The gallery will be displayingmany pieces from her collection,which will be for sale.Oother local artworks, which celebratethe harvest theme of “Orangesand Golds," will be on display.LAA Gallery is located in theGinkos by Maclyn PonsLAA ShowOpens at BankThe Livermore Art Associationwill open the 6th annual“Bank On It” show at US Bankin Livermore on Thurs., Nov. 6.Local artists will fill the entirebank with 80 artworks. The displaywill remain up until November19th. Most artwork is for sale.There will be an awards receptionon Wednesday, November12th from 3:30 to 5:00 pm.Snacks will be served. The showcan be viewed during US Bank’sbusiness hours: Mon-Thu 9:00-5:00, Fri 9:00-6:00, and Sat 9:00-1:00. US Bank is located at 2125Second Street, Livermore.For more information call theLAA Gallery at 925-449-9927.Coat by Caryn Finlay-Mount.historic Carnegie Building at2155 3rd St., Livermore. Hoursare 11:30-4:00 Wed-Sun. Formore information call the Gallery925-449-9927.

The Independent, OCTOBER 30, 2008 - PAGE 11Book signing, featuring Pleasantonauthor Douglas Kendall, "America'sReigning Cats & Dogs! Election2008." The signing will be at BordersBooks, 4575 Rosewood Dr., Pleasantonon Nov. 8 from 1 to 3 p.m.Information. 227-1412.Resurrection Dance Theatre of Haiti,November 1-3 at Holy Cross LutheranChurch in Livermore. Presented bythe Haitian Timoun Foundation. Theperformers in the troupe were oncehomeless, living on the streets, andmany of them were child slaves(restaveks). The performances willfeature the music and dancing of thetheatre group, and an opportunity tohear founder Michael Geilenfelddescribe life in Haiti. Sat., Nov. 1, 7p.m.; Sun., Nov. 2, 9:30 a.m. withDance Percussion Workshop at 11a.m. and Mon., Nov. 3, 9 a.m. all atHoly Cross Lutheran Church, 1020Mocho St., Livermore. Other performanceswill take place at GranadaHigh School and the Livermore ValleyCharter School. For more informationvisit www.HopeInHaiti.org.Livermore’s Got Talent 2009 Auditions,applications accepted now toJan. 3, 2009. Auditions at theBankhead Theater, 2400 First Street,Livermore. $25.00 application fee.Sponsored by NBC Bay Area, theRotary Clubs of Livermore, the LivermoreArea Recreation and ParkDistrict, and Waste Management, Inc.All proceeds go to the Rotary communitygrants program.www.LivermoresGotTalent.com;auditions@livermoresgottalent.comMaurie Louis, Public Relations Director.Cuda Ridge Wines is having a tastingat First Street Wine Company onNovember 6th from 6:00 - 8:00 PM.Come meet the winemaker and tasteall of the Cuda Ridge Wines for anominal fee of $5.00. All of the CudaRidge Wines are also available forpurchase at First Street Wine Com-pany. First Street Wine Company islocated at 2211 1st Street in downtownLivermore.Bankhead Theater Tours, “behind thescenes” public tours of the LivermoreValley Performing Arts Center’snew Bankhead Theater, which lastapproximately 30 minutes, begins inthe lobby of the theater. Tours will beconducted on the fourth Tuesday ofeach month at 5:30 p.m.. No advancereservations are required. BankheadTheater, 2400 First Street, DowntownLivermore. Information 925-373-6800The Wild Vine Gallery is featuring thefollowing local artists: August: AngelaJohal, abstract oil paintings,September: Hayley Ferreira, muralpaintings. October: Linda Ryan, figurativeacrylics, reception Oct. 16, 7 to9 p.m. November: Jennifer Severo,portrait, figures, reception Nov. 14,7 to 9 p.m. December: Lisa and RonRigge, photography, reception Dec.4, 7 to 9 p.m. 2187 First St., downtownLivermore; 243-0700.Joan’s Farm and Pumpkin Patch,Back by popular demand, Oct. 1-31,9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily. Mines Rd.,LivermoreShakespeare’s Associates presentsscenes from 'The Seagull," Mon.,Nov. 3, 7 p.m. Livermore Library,1188 So. Livermore Ave. Free admission.Authors, Arts and Morepresented by Friends of the LivermoreLibrary.Author Zoe Ferarris, "Finding Nouf,"Sun., Nov. 16, 2 p.m. LivermoreLibrary, 1188 So. Livermore Ave.Free admission. Authors, Arts andMore presented by Friends of theLivermore Library.Contra Costa Wind Symphony, concertdevoted to "monsters and heroes,"with music from "The Phantomof the Opera," "Godzilla Eats LasVegas," "Superman" and others. JozselCsikota conducts "Concerto for Trumpet"by Alexander Arutinunian withhis son Gergo as soloist and "Concertofor Symphonic Band" byFrigyes Hidas. 2 p.m. Nov. 16. Centerfor the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr.,Walnut Creek. $18 regular admission,$15 seniors, $12 students.wwwlesherartscenter.org.www.ccwindsymphony.org.Vocal recital, Sarah Sloan Vocal Studio,Sun., Nov. 9, 3 p.m. RossmoorRetirement Community, WalnutCreek. students will perform in theNational Association of TeachersSinging Around East Bay Recital,showcasing talent from all over theTri-Valley as well as Contra CostaCounty. Music by Stephen Sondheim,Adam Geutell, Noel Gay andGiovanni Paisiello. Free admission.Studio is located in Dublin. Information,719-4984 orwww.sarahsloan.net.Shakespeare’s Associates presents'The Seagull," a comedy in four acts,by Anton Chekhov, Nov. 21-23, atThe Bankhead Theater in Livermore.Tickets at 925-373-6800 or throughwww.LivermoreShakes.org, are $30- $45, with discounts for students,seniors, military and full-time educators.Show times are Friday at 8pm,Saturday at 2pm and 8pm, and Sundayat 7pm.The Best Man, Role Players Ensemble,Oct. 10-Nov. 1. Danville Town MeetingHall, 201 Front St., Danville.314-3400.Ekphrasis Art and Poetry Exhibition,through Dec. 22. Windermere’sdowntown Livermore office, 1790First Street Two receptions will beheld. Windermere Welcome Homewill sponsor a Visual Arts receptionsometime in October. The City ofLivermore will sponsor a Receptionfor Poets and Artists the afternoon ofNov. 22. For more information, contactCher Wollard at 925 824-4824 orcherw@windermere.com or ConniePost at connie@poetrypost.com.Miss Saigon, Tri-Valley RepertoryLEGAL NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDSTheatre (formerly Pleasanton Playhouse),Mainstage Musical, BankheadTheater, 2400 First St., Livermore.Nov. 1, 2, 7, 8, 9. Fri. and Sat. 8 p.m.,Sun. 2 p.m. 925-373-6800,www.livermoreperformingarts.org.Creatures of Impulse presents "Tri-Valley High - Episodes of Terror,"Thurs., Oct 30 & Fri., Oct. 31, 2008;7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Veterans MemorialBuilding, 301 Main Street, Pleasanton.$10 in advance; $15 at the door- Amador Theater Box Office. Boxoffice hours are Monday throughFriday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and fortwo hours prior to the performance.http://www.civicartstickets.org, 925-931-3444.San Ramon Symphonic Band, Nov. 1,8 p.m. Dougherty Valley PerformingArts Center, 17011 BollingerCanyon Rd. $5 adults, free studentswith valid ID or youth under 12.www.SanRamonPerformingArts.com,973-ARTS.Poetry Readings, Ellen Bass and KevinHearle, sponsored by Livermore PoetLaureate Connie Post. Sun., Nov. 2,4 p.m. Ravenswood Historic Site,Arroyo Rd., Livermore. $5.www.poetrypost.com.Best of Momix, company of dancerillusionists, Sun., Nov. 2 at 4 p.m.Dougherty Valley Performing ArtsCenter, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd.Tickets are $34.www.SanRamonPerformingArts.com,973-ARTS.Veterans' Day Celebration, November2, including music by the PleasantonCommunity Concert Band.From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in VeteransPark, Peters and Division Streets,Pleasanton. Free. Information: 925-846-5897 orwww.pleasantonband.org.Kyle Eastwood, Tuesday, November11, at 8 p.m., his second album “ParisBlue” resonates with swing, groove,and funk overtones. Tickets $50/$35/$30/$25/$12 students.www.independentnews.comLEGAL NOTICESFOR INFORMATIONPLACING LEGAL NOTICESCONTACT BARBARA @925 243-8000FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 416177The following person (s) doingbusiness as:O’Keefe Consulting,2110 WedgewoodWay, Livermore Ca 94550 ishereby registered by the followingowner (s):Dennis O’Keefe, 2110Wedgewood Way, LivermoreCa 94550This business is conductedby:an IndividualRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business under thefictitious business name ornames listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Dennis W. O’KeefeThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon September 29, 2008. ExpiresSeptember 29, 2013.The Independent Legal No.2391. Publish October 9, 16,23, 30, 2008.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 416106The following person (s) doingbusiness as:Cal StateSmogs, 3985 First Street, SteF, Livermore Ca 94551 ishereby registered by the followingowner (s):Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St.,Livermore. 925-373-6800,www.livermoreperformingarts.orgShakespeare’s As You Like It, presentedby Amador Valley HighSchool, Nov. 13, 15, 20, 21 and 22at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 14 at 11:30 a.m.at the Amador Theater, 1155 SantaRita Rd., Pleasanton. Info and ticketskhartman@pleasanton.k12.ca.us.Shakespeare in Hollywood, Las PositasCollege production, Nov. 14, 15, 21,22 at 8 p.m. and Dec. 23 at 2 p.m. $10general admission, $7 seniors andstudents. 3000 Campus Hill Dr., Livermore.424-1100Felici Piano Trio, Nov. 15, 8 p.m. DelValle Fine Arts concert, BankheadTheater, 2400 First St., Livermore.Tickets at 373-6800 or,www.livermoreperformingarts.org.Young Musicians’ Festival, Sunday,November 16, 4:00pm CenterpointeChurch, 3410 Cornerstone Ct., Pleasanton.Admission is free - donationsReservations Needed forHometown Heroes CelebrationThe City of Dublin will host a "Hometown Heroes" Celebrationas part of its 5th Annual Winter Concert Series. The celebration willinclude a performance by the Air National Guard Band of the WestCoast at 2:30 p.m. on Sun., Nov. 9 at the Dublin Senior Center, 7600Amador Valley Blvd.The Hometown Heroes celebration will recognize local veterans.There will be a Color Guard Flag ceremony and the introduction ofspecial guests.There is no admission charge for this event. However, reservationsare required. To sign up in advance, call 556-4500 or go towww.DublinRecGuide.com refer to activity #19277. A limited numberof seats may be available at show-time depending on preregistration.Todd Ganz, 2574 GeldingLand, Livermore Ca 94551This business is conductedby:an IndividualThe registrant began to transactbusiness under the fictitiousbusiness name (s) listedabove on June 30, 2008.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Todd GanzThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon September 25, 2008. ExpiresSeptember 25, 2013.The Independent Legal No.2392. Publish October 9, 16,23, 30, 2008FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 416314The following person (s) doingbusiness as:MaterialsData, Inc., 1224 ConcannonBlvd., Livermore Ca 94550 ishereby registered by the followingowner (s):Materials Data, Inc., 1224concannon Blvd., LivermoreCA 94550This business is conductedby:a CorporationThe registrant began to transactbusiness under the fictitiousbusiness name (s) listedabove on September 19,1983.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Elaine Joanne Rykken-JohnsonThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon October 1, 2008. ExpiresOctober 1, 2013.The Independent Legal No.2393. Publish October 9, 16,23, 30, 2008.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 416663The following person (s) doingbusiness as:ThompsonVideo Consulting, 590 RegulusRoad, Livermore Ca94550 is hereby registered bythe following owner (s):Greg Thompson, 590 RegulusRoad, Livermore Ca94550Michelle Thompson, 590Regulus Road, Livermore Ca94550This business is conductedby:Husband and wifeRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business under thefictitious business name ornames listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Greg Thompson andMichelle ThompsonThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon October 9, 2008. ExpiresOctober 9, 2013.The Independent Legal No.2394. Publish October 16, 23,30, November 6, 2008.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 416361The following person (s) doingbusiness as:In-The-Cuts,2026 First Street, LivermoreCa 94551 is hereby registeredby the following owner (s):Lia M. Cormier, 1980 PonderosaDrive, Livermore Ca94551This business is conductedby:an IndividualThe registrant began to transactbusiness under the fictitiousbusiness name (s) listedabove on September 27,2008.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Lia M. CormierThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon October 2, 2008. ExpiresOctober 2, 2013.The Independent Legal No.2395. Publish October 16, 23,30, November 6, 2008.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 416515The following person (s) doingbusiness as:DFC Appraisal,3655 Camelot Ct.,Pleasanton Ca 94588 ishereby registered by the followingowner (s):Daniel Campisi, 3655 Camelotare welcome. Featuring all students(age 2 - 21) of Livermore-basedmusic program Sycamore StringsAcademy, as well as guest studentsfrom the Suzuki Program at CrowdenMusic Center, Berkeley and YingQuan’s Violin Studio, San Ramon.The students will perform a variety ofstring music from classical pieces bycomposers such as Mozart, Bach,Paganini, Dvorzak and Warlock, toSwedish fiddle tunes andKindermusic. Host: Sheyda SabetanPiano Accompaniments: Katie WaldaTeachers: KC Still, Ying Quan, GoranBerg, Violin, Viola, Christina Berg,Guitar – KindermusikEast Village Opera Company,rockband, string quartet and vocals.Sun., Nov. 16, 4 p.m. DoughertyValley Performing Arts Center, 17011Bollinger Canyon Rd. $39.www.SanRamonPerformingArts.com,973-ARTS.Ct., Pleasanton Ca 94588This business is conductedby:an IndividualRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business under thefictitious business name ornames listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Daniel CampisiThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon October 6, 2008. ExpiresOctober 6, 2013.The Independent Legal No.2396. Publish October 16, 23,30, November 6, 2008.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 415775The following person (s) doingbusiness as:Ajah Designs,38670 Greenwich Circle, FremontCa 94536 is hereby registeredby the following owner(s):Amie Anne Rashe ConradThis business is conductedby:an IndividualRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business under thefictitious business name ornames listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Amie Anne Rashe ConradThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon September 16, 2008. ExpiresSeptember 16, 2013.The Independent Legal No.2397. Publish October 16, 23,30, November 6, 2008.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 416298The following person (s) doingbusiness as:VinnSoft, 3974Stoneridge Dr. #7, PleasantonCa 94588 is hereby registeredby the following owner (s):Gurjinder Singh, 3974Stoneridge Dr. #7, PleasantonCa 94588This business is conductedby:an IndividualRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business under thefictitious business name ornames listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Gurjinder SinghThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon September 30, 2008. ExpiresSeptember 30, 2013.The Independent Legal No.2398. Publish October 23, 30,November 6, 13, 2008.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 416703The following person (s) doingbusiness as:Tri-ValleyCrush, 5626 Lydia Ct., LivermoreCa 94550 is hereby registeredby the following owner(s):Tommy Lee Olsen Jr., 5626Lydia Ct., Livermore Ca 94550This business is conductedby:an IndividualRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business under thefictitious business name ornames listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Tommy Lee Olsen Jr.This statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon October 10, 2008. ExpiresOctober 10, 2013.The Independent Legal No.2399. Publish October 23, 30,November 6, 13, 2008.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 416701The following person (s) doingbusiness as:VGTECH Solutions,2709 Wheatman Ct.,Pleasanton Ca 94588 ishereby registered by the followingowner (s):Indira VijayalakshmiThangavelu, 2709 WheatmanCt., Pleasanton CA 94588This business is conductedby:an IndividualRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business under thefictitious business name ornames listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Indira VijayalakshmiThangaveluThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon October 10, 2008. ExpiresOctober 10, 2013.The Independent Legal No.2400. Publish October 23, 30,November 6, 13, 2008.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 416966The following person (s) doingbusiness as:WindmillEquestrian Center, 3316 DyerRoad, Livermore Ca 94551 is

PAGE 12 - The Independent, OCTOBER 30, 2008LEGAL NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDShereby registered by the followingowner (s):True Leap Forward Inc., 3316Dyer Road, Livermore Ca94551This business is conductedby:a CorporationRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business under thefictitious business name ornames listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/:William David MunsonThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon October 17, 2008. ExpiresOctober 17, 2013.The Independent LegalNo.2401 . Publish October 30,November 6, 13, 20, 2008.ANIMALS1) CATS/DOGSADOPT A DOG OR CAT, foradoption information contactValley Humane Society at925 426-8656.Adopt a new best friend: TVAR,the Tri-Valley Animal Rescue,offers animals for adoption everySaturday and Sunday, excludingmost holidays. On Saturdaysfrom 9:30 am to 1:00pm, both dogs and cats areavailable at the PleasantonFarmers Market at W. Angelaand First Streets. Two locationswill showcase cats only:Petsmart in Dublin from noonto 4 and the Pet Food Expressin Livermore from 1 to 4. OnSundays, cats are available atPetsmart in Dublin from 1:00to 4:00, and PetCo in San Ramonfrom 11:00 to 3:00. Formore information, call TVAR at(925) 803-7043 or visit ourwebsite at www.tvar.org.FOUND AN ANIMAL? FreeSection. Call Barbara 243-8000 to place an ad.LOST A FAMILY PET? FreeSection. Call Barbara 925243-8000 to let 49,118 householdsknow!AUTOS/BOATS/RV’S/TRUCKS7)AUTOS WANTEDDONATE VEHICLE: RECEIVE$1000 Grocery Coupon. YourChoice. Noahs Arc - SupportNo Kill Shelters, Advance VeterinaryTreatments. Free Towing,IRS Tax Deductible, Non-Runners.1-866-912-GIVE. (CAL*SCAN)DONATE YOUR CAR:Children’s Cancer Fund! HelpSave A Child’s Life ThroughResearch & Support! Free VacationPackage. Fast, Easy &Tax Deductible. Call 1-800-252-0615. (CAL*SCAN)WE BUY DAMAGED &Flooded Cars. Highest pricespaid, 1998 too 2009. 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Call925 243-8000 or go on-lineatwww.independentnews.comAlso you can pay by CreditCard for Classifiedand Display Ads.127) LOST/FOUNDLOST or FOUND AN ITEMFREE SECTIONCall Barbara 925 243-8000NOTICES/ANNOUNCEMENTS151)ANNOUNCEMENTSAxis Health Center4361 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton.Serves Valley residentswith emphasis on those withlow income. The center hasgeneral medical services, familyplanning, well baby, prenataland maternity programs,social services, blood pressurechecks, WIC food supplementprograms, premaritalblood test, sports/camp physicals,TB screening, free transportationavailable. 925 462-1755155) NOTICES“NOTICE TO READERS: Californialaw requires that contractorstaking jobs that total$500 or more (labor and/ormaterials) be licensed by theContractors State LicenseBoard. State law also requiresthat contractors include theirlicense numbers on all advertising.Check your contractor’sstatus at www.cslb.ca.gov or800-321-CSLB (2752). 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A 25-word classified ad costs $550,is placed in 240 communitynewspapers and reaches 6million Californians! Call formore information (916) 288-6010; (916) 288-6019www.Cal-SCAN.com(CAL*SCAN)ADVERTISE EFFECTIVELY!Reach over 3 million Californiansin 140 community newspapers.Cost $1,550 for a3.75”x2” display ad Supervalue! Call (916) 288-6010;(916) 288-6019,www.Cal-SCAN.com(CAL*SCAN)Looking for a cost efficientway to get out a NEWS RE-LEASE? The CaliforniaPress Release Service is theonly service with 500current daily, weekly andcollege newspaper contactsin California. Questionscall (916) 288-6010.www.CaliforniaPressReleaseService.com (CAL*SCAN)178)FINANCIAL SERVICES$50,000-$250,000 in BusinessCredit Lines Available.Unsecured 50k+ Guaranteedwith 720+ FICO, Stated Income,Perfect for Startups,60Sec Pre-Approval. BusinessCredit Consultants.www.SeedCapital.com 1-866-988-SEED(7333)(CAL*SCAN)www.independentnews.com180)HANDYMAN SERVICESAAA HANDYMAN SERVICESBIG OR SMALLWE DO IT ALL!925 548-4202Not Licenced185)LEGAL SERVICESEviction for Landlord's OnlyMichael Notaro, Esq.(510) 522-2666Visit:www.notarolaw.com187)SCHOOLS/INSTRUCTIONGET CRANE TRAINED! Crane/Heavy Equipment Training.National Certification Prep.Placement Assistance. FinancialAssistance. Northern CaliforniaCollege of Construction.www.Heavy4.com Use Code“NCPA1” 1-866-302-7462.(CAL*SCAN)Good news. Bad news. Whatdo all those statistics mean?By Cher WollardSales of existing homes in California have risen 12 percentthis year and are projected to increase even more in 2009.That’s good.The reason sales have increased is because home prices fell 6percent in the past year.That seems bad.But falling prices means the state’s affordability index hasdoubled to 48 percent.So that is good. Or is it bad?There is an old Islamic story about a wise man whose favoritestallion escapes. His neighbors offer their condolences: “Youare unlucky. That is so bad,” they said. The wise man answered“Who knows? Maybe it’s bad. Maybe it’s good.”The next day, the stallion returns leading a pack of wild horsesto the wise man’s door.“That’s good,” his neighbors said. “You are so lucky.” But thewise man answered “Who knows? Maybe it’s good. Maybe it’sbad.”The story continues with other such examples of “good” and“bad” being in the eye of the beholder. Such a philosophy easilyapplies to the real estate market.The housing market in Livermore is a microcosm of the state:properties are selling more briskly than in 2007, but at significantlylower prices.As of September, the city had a four month supply of resalehomes on the market. That means that if no new properties cameon the market and sales continued at their current rate, it wouldtake four months to sell off the current inventory.The National Association of Realtors considers six monthsinventory to represent a “balanced” market. By that definition,Livermore would look to be in a sellers’ market at this time.However, we know that home prices have softened. In September2007, the median sales price was about $615,000. Todayit is $480,000. Does this mean that homes that would have soldfor over $600,000 a year ago are now selling for less than$500,000? Not quite.The current market is heavily skewed to the lower end of themarket, as investors and first-time homebuyers snatch up bargains,many of them foreclosures and distressed properties.In all of 2007, only 48 Livermore homes sold for less than$500,000, about 8 percent of total resales. So far this year, 252homes – slightly more than half the sales – have been at thatprice point.The opposite is true at the upper end, although to a lesserdegree: Last year saw 87 sales over $1 million. The tally so farthis year has been almost one-third of that, at 33. In part, this maybe due to the increased difficulties of securing jumbo and superjumbofinancing, while loans up to $729,750 have been easier tosecure since changes were enacted to FHA earlier this year.And sellers are getting savvier about pricing their homes.Last year, average sales prices were 96 percent of list. This year,the average Livermore property sells for 98 percent of the askingprice.The one statistic that has stayed fairly steady is the length oftime it takes to sell homes in this market, referred to as Days onMarket (DOM), at 75 days.The story in the Bay Area as a whole is even starker. Homesales rose an amazing 45 percent over 2007, while the medianhome price fell 40 percent. In part, more homes have sold in theless expensive communities, those hardest hit by the downturn,including Brentwood and Antioch. And foreclosure sales are atnear record levels. For all of Alameda County, foreclosures represented37.9 percent of resales.“Inland markets have spoken: Sales take off when prices drop30 percent or more from the peak. Closer to the coast, prices insome areas continue to hold up much better. However, sales aren’tshooting up by as much, if at all. One reason is fewer foreclosureson the coast mean fewer motivated sellers willing to drop prices.Meantime, mortgage money remains tight for pricier homes, andinland buyers looking to move up now have less equity to doso,” said John Walsh, MDA DataQuick president.“For the inland markets,” he continued, “September’s relativelystrong sales provide more evidence that a recovery gotwell under way this summer. Now it’s just a question of whetherit will stay on track and provide stable prices and fading foreclosuresin 2009, or will it get derailed by an economic crisis.”While smart investors are aggressively buying up many ofthese properties, many other folks who were previously pricedout of the Bay Area market are taking advantage of low pricesand good interest rates to purchase their first homes.DataQuick explains the change in affordability: “The typicalmonthly mortgage payment that Bay Area buyers committedthemselves to paying was $1,890 last month (Sept. 2008), downfrom $2,121 the previous month, and down from $3,171 a yearago. Adjusted for inflation, current payments are 27.3 percentbelow typical payments in the spring of 1989, the peak of theprior real estate cycle. They are 45.3 percent below the currentcycle’s peak in June 2006.”Most of these statistics reflect activity before the economicpanic that swept Wall Street and the bond markets in late Septemberand October. It is unknown how these changes, or thesubsequent “bailout package” will impact the local housingmarket. The first of the “bailout” money is being dispersed thisweek and next, which could make home financing easier to obtain.Cher Wollard is a local Realtor.'Marketing with Stars'Debi Zentner, a Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist withDiversified Capital Funding, is one of five mortgage industryprofessionals chosen from around the country to share her marketingstrategies at the Mastery Business Plan convention in LasVegas, Nev., Nov. 10-13.Zentner, who entered the Mastery Business Plan’s contest forthe best mortgage industry marketing practices in the country,will participate in a panel on Nov. 12 called “Marketing withStars.”As a Mortgage Planning Specialist, her business goal is toinstill a level of service, trust and value so her clients have whatshe likes to call a “WOW” experience.She says her marketing strategy is based on her commitmentto exceed her client’s expectations through consistent and timelycommunication. To that end, she has developed on a thoroughplan for contacting and following up with her clients at preciseintervals with personal touches like handwritten notes, informationalemails and congratulatory phone calls.Zentner has placed within the top 10% of her company’s mortgageprofessionals for the past four years. She is on schedule toearn her company’s President’s Club distinction again this year.Place your ad online atwww.independentnews.com

The Independent, OCTOBER 30, 2008 - PAGE 13Dental HygieneThe Chabot College Department ofDental Hygiene invites the public toattend an Information Day to learnabout its Dental Hygiene program onSaturday, November 1, from 10 a.m.to 1 p.m. in Building 1900, Room1904.This free event will feature a presentationby Chabot faculty and studentsthat includes program information,enrollment requirements, and informationabout the dental hygieneprofession. A panel of students currentlyenrolled in the program willaddress issues such as coping with theworkload, family life, financial aid,and housing. The program will concludewith a Q&A session and a tour ofthe Chabot College dental hygieneclinic.The California Employment DevelopmentDepartment reports thatdental hygienist and dental assistantare the #1 and #2 occupations with thefastest growth in the state. The demandfor new professionals in these positionsis expected to grow by 57% overthe next five years.The two-year dental hygiene programat Chabot College is accreditedby the Commission on Dental Accreditationof the American Dental Association,a specialized accrediting bodyrecognized by the council on Post-Secondary Accreditation and by theUnited States Department of Education.Through this special admissionprogram, students are exposed to primaryoral health care, clinical practice,research, educational theory, adultlearning concepts and communicationṪhe program at Chabot College isavailable for only $20 per unit, plus thecost of books and instruments. Studentsenjoy the benefit of a 5:1 studentto faculty ratio and a lot of individualsupport from instructors.Students work in a fully operativedental clinic where they treat patients.For registration information pleasecall (510) 723-6700. Chabot Collegeis located at 25555 Hesperian Boulevardin Hayward.Beard Growing ContestFirst Street Alehouse in Livermorewill hold the first annual Beard GrowingContest.The event begins with contestantsmeeting at the Alehouse on Sat., Nov.1 at noon for a group picture, drinksand appetizers. Contestants must beclean shaven (mustache is the onlyexception).There is a $20 entrance fee whichincludes two free pints and appetizerson Nov. 1 and on Dec. 20, an awardceremony with prizes for differentcategories. There will be many differentcategories, including the following:longest, ugliest, thickest and mostcreative.A full beard is required to be includedin the group photo to be takenat the reception on Dec. 20. The photowill be framed and hung on the wall atthe Alehouse, 2086 1st St., Livermore,information (925) 371-6588.HalloweenGuggenheim Entertainment presents,“It’s Like, Halloween!” in celebrationof Pleasanton’s spooky Halloweenseason on Fri., Oct. 31 at 4 p.m.at Stoneridge Shopping Center in Pleasanton.Kidgits and their families will goback to the future with three materialgirl witches who just wanna have fun!A totally tubular playlist of 80s musicwill rock at the annual Witch’s Ball asPunkin’ Pie, Battrina and Candy Rapperhost their own “Star Search” for anew addition to the girl band. Onelucky audience member will get to jointhem on stage!After the performance trick-ortreatingstations will be set up for kids.There will also be Witchie-Poo’s “Disor-Dat”Dance Party, Count Dracula’sCooky Countdown and HalloweenPictionary Party with the Frankensteins.A volunteer photographer will alsobe on hand to take photos ofStoneridge’s littlest ghouls and goblins,with all proceeds benefitting theSimon Youth Foundation.The Simon Kidgits Club is a club forkids ages 3-8. Check out the website athttp://www.simonkidgitsclub.com.Sign up at Guest Services and receivecomplete program details as wellas a schedule of events for the year. Theannual membership fee is $5 per member.Police Explorer PostBased on the success of the YouthPolice Academies provided by the department,the Livermore Police Departmentdeveloped a Police Explorerpost in 2007. The explorer post hasbeen established and is now acceptingapplications. The post is designed toprovide an opportunity for communityyouth to become involved in lawenforcement.The Boy Scouts of America sponsors“Learning for Life.” Learning forScottish Games to Get New LookThe Livermore Area Recreation and Park District is gearing up forthe sixth annual Livermore Scottish Games and Celtic Celebration,coming up in spring 2009. This time around, the District is partneringwith event producer Renaissance Productions to design, market andbring to life the 2009 Scottish Games.Patrons to the event will see an array of new offerings as LARPDand Renaissance Productions plan to extend the levels of entertainmentdiversity and interactive experiences to the show. Familyfriendlyevents and Scottish activities will highlight next year's event.There will be bagpipe bands, Celtic rock bands, drumming, fiddling,highland dancing, Olympic-style competitions and kids' games. Therewill be genealogy and clan tents and plenty of Scottish merchandiseand food.A new Calling of the Clans ceremony will introduce and honorall the Scottish clans in attendance for the weekend. Historically, theCalling of the Clans was a gathering of clans in preparation forbattle, unifying all the clans as one.In a nod to their original incarnation centuries ago, modern ScottishHighland Games will revolve around athletic and sports competitions.Heavy athletic events such as the caber toss, weight toss andimpressive displays of strength and skill will draw in visitors, whowill be able to try their hand in the competitions.Renaissance Productions runs successful events throughout theWest Coast and consults on events of all genres around the country.The Sixth Annual Livermore Scottish Games and Celtic Celebrationwill be held on May 16 and 17, 2009, at Robertson Park, 3200Robertson Park Road, Livermore. For more information, please visitwww.larpd.dst.ca.us or www.livermoregames.com.Life is a non-traditional scouting program.There are many varieties ofExplorer Posts including; Aviation,Engineering Technology, SkilledTrades, Fire Services, Social Services,Arts and Humanities, and Law Enforcement.The Explorer Post will provide participantswith career training. It is astructured program to promote responsibilityamong the participants. Expectationsinstilled in the participants willbe high morals, acceptable grade pointaverage, good judgment, and activecommunity involvement. Additionally,leadership, discipline, physicalfitness, teamwork, and professionalismare traits that will be encouraged.The Explorer Post will provide teenagersand young adults with an opportunityto observe and participate in policedepartment activities in order to assesstheir career interest in a police employmentposition.In order to become a LivermorePolice Department Explorer, participantsmust meet the following criteria:be between 14-20 years of age (maximumage to apply will be 19), attendschool and maintain a minimum 2.0GPA, complete an application, pass anoral board, pass a background check,volunteer 15 hours per month at thedepartment, and attend bi weekly meetings.The Explorer Post will be limited totwenty members.Applications can be obtained fromthe front kiosk at the police departmentlocated at 1110 S. Livermore Avenue,Livermore, or by contacting Sgt. JohnHurd.Sleep PioneerPioneer sleep researcher William C.Dement will speak at Las Positas Collegein Livermore on Thursday, October30 in Building 2400, Room 2420on the Livermore campus.Dement's talk will begin at 7 p.m.There is a $7 admission fee for thegeneral public, and $5 for students andstaff. Advance ticket purchases arerecommended.Dement is considered the father ofmodern sleep medicine and currentlyserves as a professor in the Departmentof Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciencesat Stanford University. He authored thedefinitive textbook on the diagnosisand treatment of sleep disorders.He is the founding co-editor of thescientific journal, "Sleep," and has writtenor co-authored more than 500pieces for scientific publications. Forthe general public, he has published anentertaining and informative book,"The Promise of Sleep."In addition to holding the LowellW. and Josephine Q. Berry professorshipat Stanford, Dement also directsthe Stanford sleep research and clinicalprograms department.He participated in the first observationsof rapid eye movement (dream)sleep in the 1950s at the University ofChicago. He is credited as the firstresearcher to recognize rapid-eyemovementas a specific biological statementwith unique properties. His researchhas included major contributionsconcerning the long-term effectsof sleep deprivation.Currently he serves as president ofthe "Coalition to Wake Up America," agrassroots advocacy group made up ofpatients, sleep professionals and concernedcitizens.Dement's talk at Las Positas is sponsoredby the college psychology departmentand the Psi Beta NationalHonor Society.For further information, pleasecontact Ernie Jones in the Las PositasCollege Department of Psychology,ejones@laspositascollege.eduLivermore's Got TalentA “Livermore’s Got Talent” competitionis planned. Top winners ineach age category – youth (17 andunder) and adults (18 and over) – willeach take home $2,500.The competition is sponsored bythe Rotary clubs of Livermore. Proceedswill benefit the Rotary communitygrant programs that assist communityservice organizations.This competition will feature singers,dancers, bands, pianists, magicians,comedians and other performers.Aspiring performers living in theBay Area are invited to audition andcompete. Information and applicationsfor auditions are available atLivermoresGotTalent.com. Applicationsmust be received by Jan. 3, 2009.The finals will be open to the publicon Saturday, February 28, 2009, at theLivermore Valley Performing ArtsCenter’s Bankhead Theater in front ofthree Bay Area celebrity judges.Each contestant is required to submitan audition video or a link to aYouTube video clip. The acts can be 2-3 minutes in length. All of the submittedvideos will be reviewed and the firstround winners will be invited to liveauditions that are to be held on Feb. 8-9, 2009. The winners of these liveauditions will move on to the finals.The Rotary clubs of Livermore areproducing this competition with supportfrom NBC Bay Area, the LivermoreArea Recreation and Park Districtand Waste Management, Inc. All fundsgenerated by this event will benefit thecommunity grants that are presentedby the Rotary clubs throughout theyear. Past recipients of these grantsinclude the Valley Health Care’s mobilehealth unit that supports the healthneeds of our underserved communityand performs as a disaster relief vehicle.Other recipients include theLivermore schools, the Livermore SeniorServices Center, science scholarships,and autistic children funds.Court VolunteersAdults volunteers needed from TriValley Youth Court. TVYC is TVYC isa youth driven justice program for firsttime offenders. The court meets thefirst Tuesday evening of each month atthe Gale/Schenone courthouse in Pleasantonfrom 5:30 - 7:45 pm. For moreinformation, visit our website atww.trivalleyyouthcourt.com or callTonya at (925) 337-7175.Teen Volunteers Needed for newTri Valley Youth Court (TVYC) toserve as Advocates (youth attorneys)and jurors. Advocates prepare andpresent the case for the Defendant.Jurors are needed one evening permonth - the first Tuesday from 5:30 pm- 8:00 pm at the Gale/Schenone courthousein Pleasanton. TVYC is a youthdriven adjunct to the traditional juvenilejustice system for first time teenoffenders. For more information, visitour website atwww.trivalleyyouthcourt.com or callTonya at (925) 337-7175Kids Vote Too!It’s an election year, so the PleasantonPublic Library has decided to getchildren involved in the political process.Between October 14 and November4, children may come into thelibrary and vote for the book characterthey believe would make the best president.The field of candidates, withrepresentatives for younger and oldervoters, has been identified: Dora (theexplorer), Frog & Toad, CuriousGeorge, Aslan, Harry Potter and Mrs.Piggle Wiggle.Become an informed voter; candidatebiographies and statements will beon display in the Children’s Department.Campaigning for a favorite candidateis encouraged!Children are invited to pick up aballot, make a selection, drop it in theballot box and receive an “I Voted:Kids Vote Too!” sticker. Two characterswill be elected, one from literaturefor younger children the other fromliterature for older children. The resultswill be announced Wednesdayafternoon, November 5th.For more information please contactthe Children’s desk at (925) 931-3400 ext. 8.Program CanceledThe children’s program by La LegionFantastique, “Return to the Centerof the Earth”, which was scheduled forSaturday, November 8 at the PleasantonPublic Library has been cancelled.At this time there are no plans for analternate performance.For information on other PleasantonPublic Library programs and eventsplease visit http://www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us/services/library/programs-and-events.html,orcontact the Children’s Desk at (925)931-3400 ext. 8.

PAGE 14 - The Independent, OCTOBER 30, 2008TALK(continued from page one)In Livermore they have spawnedrestaurants, new theaters, andcultural events.""That should be illegal (takingredevelopment funds),"stated Kamena. Cities are suingthe state to prevent future take.Another thing that should beillegal, Kamena said, is having abusiness located in one city andbe designated a point of sale inanother. Because of that practice,Livermore has lost $2 million insales tax revenues it was countingon. A bill had been passed bythe California legislature makingthe practice illegal. However, thegovernor stamped the measure"not a priority," explainedPhoto - Caltrans District 4/ John HusebyPictured are (from left) David Donnelly, Granite Construction Bay Area Branch Manager; MayorMarshall Kamena, City of Livermore; Scott Haggerty, Alameda County Supervisor; Bijan Sartipi,Caltrans Director District 4; Assemblyman Guy Houston, District 15; and Christine Monsen,Executive Director, Alameda County Transportation Authority.HIGHWAY 84(continued from page one)Kamena. That killed the bill forthis year. Kamena said the hopeis that the bill will be reintroduced.Short term plans by the cityto cope with reduced funding isinclude a delay in capital improvementprojects such as fireengine replacement. There willbe a $6 million reduction in overallspending. "It appears it willbe two to three years before thereis a turn-around."By 2015 Livermore will havea nice economic picture, Kamenasaid. He mentioned the Toyotadealership as one reason, with aprojected $1 million in annualsales tax revenues. The second isthat Caltrans used rubberized asphaltconcrete pavement, whichtakes rubber from old tires andincorporates them into the asphaltmix. Approximately18,000 tires were redirected fromlandfills and incorporated intothe roadway pavement, and40,000 tons of pavement andbase materials from the realignedroadway were recycled by incorporatingthem into the new roadway.In the first construction season,Granite Construction exceededits own work schedule byincreasing the number of personneland equipment. The companyused a fleet of high capacityearthmoving equipment to itsfullest potential. At the height ofthe earthmoving operations,Granite was moving 20,000 to30,000 cubic yards of soil perday. As a result, the earthworkthat was planned to take two fullseasons was accomplished in justone season.This project was funded fromthe State Highway Operation andProtection Program (SHOPP).Other projects planned for Route84 will use Measure B funds.Measure B was originally approvedby voters in AlamedaCounty in 1986, and the half-the opening of the Prime Outletplanned for 2010. Stores alreadycommitted include Sax 5th Avenueand Nieman Marcus, as wellas Restoration Hardware. Businessessuch as LAM Research,and Comcast are relocating toLivermore, added Kamena.Accomplishments over thepast year, Kamena said, includethe success of the Bankhead Theater,with over 50,000 in ticketsales valued at over $1 million.New businesses have opened inthe downtown.The Livermore Valley FilmCommission is bringing in filmcrews shooting everything fromcommercials to films.. "I believecent sales tax was re-authorizedin November 2000.“Drive safely, drive carefully,and buy things in AlamedaCounty, so we can pay for moreprojects like this one,” said ChristineMonsen, executive directorfor the Alameda County TransportationImprovement Authority.Monsen spoke about severalprojects planned in the area thatwill use Measure B funds.“I am so proud of this area,”said Scott Haggerty, AlamedaCounty Supervisor, “and the taxpayers who voted for a half-centsales tax that generates about$110 million a year. You are gettingyour money’s worth.”that a feature film is coming. Thatrepresents a $14 million increasein local funds," said Kamena. Henoted that the television show,Myth-Busters, films many of itssegments in the area.Livermore is supporting thegreen movement, continuedKamena. For its efforts, Livermorehas been named the GoGreen Small City of the Year.Livermore is engaged in the SolarCities program, a partnershipwith Pleasanton, with Dublinexpected to join soon. The programprovides information toconsumers regarding the costsand benefits of installing solarsystems. A streamlined permittingand review process has been establishedas part of the program.Green building is mandatoryfor all development.Kamena said there are commitmentsthe city has made.These include revitalization ofthe downtown. "Eight proposalswere received from major developersfor the old Lucky centeron Railroad Avenue. Plans are toraze the buildings soon." A newboutique hotel is moving forward.The city's wish list includesBART to Livermore andhigh speed rail.Youth activities are a priority,including moving forward withthe health initiative. Other programsthat will continue are ReelFocus, which provides film makingopportunities for youth; andthe summer reading program saidKamena.With regard to city personnel,Kamena said the Legacy Programcontinues to provide opportunitiesto train staff from within tocreate institutional memory. CityManager Linda Barton has beenelected vice chairman of theLeague of California Cities CityManagers Division. Retiring willbe Assistant City Manager JimPiper and City Clerk AliceREWARD(continued from page one)of crimes in the future, for waysto prevent people from doing stupidthings.”Mayor Marshall Kamenacommented, “A crime like thisaffects all of us. It impacts thefabric of the quality of life wehave here. It’s a terrible testimonialto life today. Our police departmentwill continue to workon this case with the sheriff departmentsfrom Contra CostaCounty and Alameda County.With the reward, I have renewedhope that we will fund the gunand the person who pulled thetrigger.”Calvert.Last, he mentioned that Livermoreis an award winning city.The First Street streetscape receivedthe California DowntownAssociation Crystal Eagle Awardfor best physical improvement.Kamena noted that this is thehighest award for the entire state.Pathway to Picasso receivedthe Distinguished Program Awardfrom the California Departmentof Corrections and Rehabilitation,Division of Juvenile Justice.The program uses art projects toreach out to at-risk youth.