02/03/2011 - The Independent

VOLUME XLVIII, NUMBER 5Your Local News Source Since 1963 SERVING LIVERMORE • PLEASANTON • SUNOL THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011Pleasanton Schools to Go for Parcel TaxFind Out What'sHappeningCheck out thesecond sectionSection II is filled with informationabout arts, entertainmentand special events. There areeducation stories, a variety offeatures, and the arts and entertainmentand bulletin board listThorne NamedTo NationalCommitteeNational League of CitiesPresident James Mitchell, Jr.,announced the appointment ofPleasanton City CouncilmemberJerry Thorne to his third termon the National League of Cities’(NLC)2011 CommunityandE c o n o m i cD e v e l o p -ment Policyand AdvocacySteeringCommittee.T h e c o m -mittee takesthe lead indevelopingNLC federalpolicy positions in the areas ofcommunity and economic development,financial institutions,international trade, housing, landuse, and recreation.As a member of the committee,Thorne will play a key rolein shaping the League’s policypositions, while advocating onbehalf of America’s cities andtowns on Capitol Hill, with theAdministration, and at home.“Participation with the PolicyCommittee gives Pleasanton avoice on Capitol Hill in mattersimportant to our City’s economicdevelopment. It also allows methe opportunity to interact withelected leaders from all overthe country and bring home toPleasanton the best ideas forcommunity and economic development,"said Thorne.Councilmember Thorne hasalso been reappointed to theEnvironmental Quality PolicyCommittee for the League ofCalifornia Cities. In addition todeveloping League policy on EnvironmentalQuality, the committeerepresents cities and townsacross California with the StateLegislature in matters related toEnvironmental Quality.PET OF THE WEEKEllie is about one year old, andpossibly a Pekingese/TibetanSpaniel mix. Although she is stilla bit shy, she warms up quicklyto people she knows. Kids arealso a great match for her! Ellieis easygoing and enjoys goingout on walks. On February 5thfrom 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., she will beavailable along with other puppiesand dogs. To learn more aboutadoptable animals, call 925-426-8656 or visit the website www.valleyhumane.org. Valley HumaneSociety is located at 3670 NevadaStreet in Pleasanton. Hours areTues.- Sat. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.Photo Courtesy of Shoshannah ReedBy Ron McNicollPleasanton Unified SchoolDistrict trustees voted unanimouslyto place a $98 parcel taxon a mail ballot that will be dueback to the election authoritieson May 3.If successful, the measurewould raise $2 million each yearfor its four-year life. It could beextended by the board voting toplace it on the ballot again.By voting on Feb. 1 at a specialmeeting, the board was ableto meet a deadline of 5 p.m. Feb.Photo - Doug JorgensenPleasanton’s Lydiksen Elementary School multipurpose room was filled with the smell of freshlyprepared food from all over the world on Tuesday for the school’s International Festival. Duringthe school day, students visited booths representing more than 20 countries where they learnedabout the history, heritage, and food of each. In the evening, two young Lydiksen chefs preparedan international meal for families and the community. There were also dance performances, music,and food samples from a variety of countries. The recipes for the food have been published in thefirst Lydiksen International Cookbook. For information, call the school at 426-4420. DiscussingThe Netherlands with students is Wendy Vanderhorn KellerIt's All in the Genes When It Comes toCombatting Antibiotic Resistant BacteriaResearchers at LawrenceLivermore National Laboratory(LLNL) have discovered a newway to combat antibiotic resistantbacteria by using the bacteria’sown genes.For more than 50 years, antibioticshave been used to treat avariety of deadly infections andsaved countless lives. Its broadintroduction and application haschanged the face of medicineworldwide.Despite the advances made toantibiotics over the years, the listof antibiotic resistant bacteria,Land Use, TransportationPlanning Work TogetherPlanning for land use andtransportation will be go hand inhand as regions and cities moveto comply with new state laws.SB 375 aims to reduce greenhousegas emissions throughdevelopment of a SustainableCommunities Strategy (SCS),which integrates transportationand land use planning. The SCSmust be adopted as part of thenext regional transportation plan.Specifically, the strategy mustidentify areas in the nine-countyBay Area to accommodate all ofthe region’s projected populationgrowth, including all incomegroups, for at least the next 25years. It must try to achieve targetedreductions in greenhousegas emissions from cars and lighttrucks.AB 32 set a 2020 greenhousegas emissions reduction goal intolaw. The law directs the CaliforniaAir Resources Board (ARBArt & Entertainment....... Section IIBulletin Board............... Section IIClassifieds...........................1-Editorial.................................4Mailbox...................................4Inside2 to place the question on theMay 3 ballot.The May 3 balloting is importantfor success, accordingto the district’s consultant on theelection, Charles Heath. If thevote came later, it would overlapwith absentee mail balloting witha possible statewide election inearly June.Heath told trustees at theirmeeting Jan. 27 that school districtsthat held their local measureelections before statewide electionswere largely successful.such as MRSA (Methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus),E.coli, Salmonella and Campylobacter,is growing and becomingone of the world’s most serioushealth concerns. Infections onceroutinely treatable have nowbecome more difficult to combatand potentially more lethal.Paul Jackson and his LLNLteam come have taken a new approachto combating antibioticresistant bacteria by developinga new generation of antibiotics,based upon a much deeper understandingof the bacteria’s ownor Board) to begin developing actionsto reduce greenhouse gaseswhile also preparing a scopingplan to identify how best to reachthe 2020 limit. The plan to meetthe 2020 target is to be adoptedby early in 2011.Four Bay Area agencies areworking on the SCS. They areABAG, MTC, the Bay AreaAir Quality Management District(BAAQMD), and the SanFrancisco Bay Conservation andDevelopment Commission. Inaddition to land use and transportation,the plan will address airquality and adaptation to climatechange.Alameda County SupervisorScott Haggerty hosted a workshoplast Saturday to updateelected officials and staff on thenew laws and planning effortsin the Bay Area to meet the newlaws. He told those present, “This(See PLANNING, page 8)Roundup..................................3Short Notes.............................9Sports......................................6Obituaries................................9Those that held them at the sametime or a little later were not successful.Heath’s polling showed thatthe parcel tax has a likely chanceof gaining support from 71 percentof voters. Two-thirds supportis needed to pass a parcel tax.If the election were successful,having it in May also willturn on the revenue spout to thedistrict in time for next year’sschool funding. Tax collectionswill be made in December andApril, with the cash going to thegenes. The method consists ofturning the pathogens’ own genesand processes against it.“Rather than looking for amore traditional solution to theproblem and perhaps findinga chemical or antimicrobialsolution, we decided to harnessgenetic sequencing and take acloser look at the makeup of thepathogen’s DNA,” Jackson said.“In doing so, we’ve identified thegenes within bacteria that encodefor lytic proteins – a very importantcomponent for cell survival(See BACTERIA, page 3)district.The assessor will charge 1.7percent of the proceeds as acollection fee. The district’scost for conducting the electionwill be between $200,000 and$250,000.Trustees said they were carefulto conduct the polling beforeputting the measure on the ballot.The result of the district’s $233parcel tax last year was a coupleof percentage points short of passage.No survey was conducted,because the board majority atFeeling Confident,High-end Outlet MallAdds Additional LandParagon Outlets has acquiredan additional 17 acres for thehigh-end retail outlet mall thatit plans to develop on the eastside of El Charro Road in Livermore.(Paragon Outlets was formerlyknown as Prime Outlets.)The purchase of the additionalland, a deal that closed shortlybefore the end of December,brings Paragon’s total land-holdingto 59 acres.Kelvin Antill, Paragon developmentpartner, told The Independentthat the firm acquiredthe land in anticipation of futureexpansion. Paragon is confidentthat its initial development willbe successful, and there will bea need to add more buildings,he said.Paragon already has signedsome high-end retailers, includingNieman Marcus, BrooksBrothers, and Tommy Hilfiger.In regard to the high-end tenants,as well as the size of thedevelopment, Antill said, “Welook forward to creating moreshopping opportunities for thearea.”The firm plans 134 storesThe Livermore Police Departmenthas responded to anincrease of gang activity andgang-related crime over thelast several months. The typeof gang related crimes include:vandalisms, graffiti, assaults withweapons, and batteries.Due to the increase in gangactivity, the department has assigneda patrol-based team ofofficers and supervisors to proac-Fog added a dreamy quality to the view along Foothill Road in Pleasanton.that time felt there was not timeto do it.The board emphasized thatthe money would go to corecurriculum programs, such asreading and math specialists andcounselors, as well as librarysupport. Attracting and retaininghighly qualified teachers isanother named asset.Not one penny would go toany salary increases or pensions,said the board. There would be aleast seven citizen members serv-(See PARCEL TAX, page 3)on the initial 42-acre property.The retail area footprint of thebuildings was approved for anexpansion from 450,000 squarefeet to 540,000 square feet by theplanning commission. The citycouncil will take up the matterFeb. 14.Livermore Mayor MarshallKamena said that he thinksParagon definitely will need theadditional property. “I’m happythey purchased it,” he said.If the Livermore developmentis as successful as those ownedParagon in other U.S. locations,“I think that ultimately theywould have about 200 storeswhen the two properties arecombined,” said Kamena.Antill’s projected opening datein fall 2013 is conservative, saidKamena. “I am hoping it will beopen by Christmas 2012.”“We’re really looking forwardto the opening, after working forit for more than four years. Weare ready for shoppers to come toLivermore,” said KamenaParagon was able to expandthe retail footprint in the firstphase by reducing parking area,(See LAND, page 4)Police Move toHalt Gang Activitytively address the gang problems.The enforcement effort was formalizedearlier this month.Officers are conducting highprofile patrolling of known gangareas; contacting, identifying,and documenting potential gangmembers; conducting probationarycompliance checks; andattempting to remove graffiti asquickly as possible. Currently,(See POLICE, page 4)Photo - Doug JorgensenRABBIT ADOPTION EVENTMeet Daisy and her litter of 2 mo. old Lionhead babies thisSaturday. Lionheads are a small rabbit, 4 1/2 lbs, with longwool surrounding their face, resembling a lion’s mane. MeetDaisy and her 5 babies along with 50+ rescues at our monthlyadoption event Saturday, February 5, at the East Bay SPCA,located at 4651 Gleason Drive in Dublin from 11- 4 pm. Thelow adoption fee includes spay/neuter surgery. Visit www.eastbayrabbit.petfinder.com or call 925-449-6368 for moreinfo.

PAGE 4 - The Independent, FEBRUARY 3, 2011EDITORIALSpecial Group Of VolunteersEighteen “therapy dogs” were recently honored for theirvolunteer work at the Livermore Veterans AdministrationMedical Center. They’re being used in the treatment ofillnesses such as depression, PTSD, Alzheimer’s and evencancer.C. Winn Crannell, a retired physician’s assistant, explainedat the fete, “With their quiet, gentle ways, theirunconditional love, their wonderful sense of what preciselyis needed — extra attention or just a quiet presence — thepatients who are agitated are calmed, those who are withdrawnare drawn out, those who need love but don’t knowhow to ask are loved completely.”The VA program was launched in July 2004 by thePleasanton based Valley Humane Society.Some of the therapy dogs have been with the programfor a long time. A nine-year-old lab with the witty nameLawrence the Livermore Lab was honored for 1000 hoursof service. Albert, a lab/border collie mix, received acclaimfor 750 hours.The talks at the fete were eloquent. Story after storywas told demonstrating how the dogs bring comfort to theveterans.One incident involved Lawrence the Livermore Lab. Apatient was growing increasingly agitated as he talked abouthis struggle with alcoholism and PTSD. The dog, sensingtension in the air, went over to the tormented man and layhis head on his knee, instantly calming the situation.This is a very special group of volunteers.Swim ProgramDraws PraiseProject 2010 drew praise fromthe Livermore Area Recreationand Park District (LARPD) boardof directors.The project offered an opportunityfor low income children totake swim lessons. Sharon Grant,LARPD Recreation Supervisor,reported that 120 children wereable to participate. The programis financed through a grant program.The students pay $10 each;the grant fund pays $25 for eachchild. “This allowed us to providelessons for a population that weneeded to reach,” stated Grant.The program was conducted atthe May Nissen Swim Center.The grants were from theThomas J. Long Foundation andthe American Red Cross. Grantadded that the Foundation grantwas for one year. “We are applyingfor other funding to continuethe program.”Director Laureen Turner commented,“I am impressed withproject 2010. It is a job well doneto get 120 students into the water.The program enables an achievementthat without the grant wouldnot have been possible.”Other board members echoedher comments. Maryalice Faltingsadded, “I feel very stronglythat teaching children to swim issomething that parks and recreationshould do. Getting everylittle child in the water we can isso important.”Grant also reported on otherprograms and activities thattook place over the past year atboth the Robert Livermore CommunityCenter and May Nissenpools.Aquatics programs includelessons, lap swim, recreationalswim, water exercise, water poloand synchronized swimming, aswell as rentals to competitiveteams and pool parties.Despite the unusually coolsummer and the loss of a largeswim meet rental causing a slightdip in attendance, programs stillshowed improvement in 2010.The overall aquatic attendancewas 96,000; the summer swimteam grew to 70 swimmers; synchronizedswimming tripled insize; and $27,000 was raised forKaiser Pediatric Oncology fromLAND(continued from page one)though it still meets city minimumrequirements. Also, Paragon’sapproach to shoppingincludes operating motor coachesto bring shoppers to the mall.Paragon is hopeful thatgroundbreaking for the firstphase will be in April. The mallshould be open for business by(INLAND VALLEY PUBLISHING CO.)the SwimStrong fund-raiser inmemory of Korrine Croghan.The board also heard a reporton the impact of budget cuts ondistrict nature programs.Two full-time positions wereeliminated from the nature program,a park ranger and theranger/naturalist. Reductionswere also implemented in severalprograms and services includingenvironmental education, openspace staffing levels, ranger patrolsof open spaces, fee-basedoutdoor recreation programsand general maintenance. Thereduction has also resulted infewer resource managementprojects such as native plantrestoration, invasive pest controland monitoring of native wildlifeand plants.Assistant General ManagerJohn Lawrence noted that feebased outdoor programs wereeliminated, mainly in the equestrianarea. Kayaking was transferredto Sunrise Mountaineering.He told the board that the fullimpact won’t be known until theend of the fiscal year.In another report, Bob Sanchez,a leading volunteer to promoteValley Rock Gym, sharedan update on the gym. He reportedsuccesses in both participationand revenue. He noted that theDecember finances were ahead ofthe proposed budget. Cuts in stafflabor have made a big difference.In addition, membership, rentalsand sales are up.”General Manager Tim Barryinvited the public to attend theupcoming Seniors Helping Seniorsdinner dance on Feb. 10.The event, put on by the LivermoreHigh School senior classof 2011, serves as a fund-raiserfor the class and LARPD seniorprograms. Tickets are on sale atthe Community Center throughFeb. 3. For more information,call 925-373-5760.Board President Steve Goodmanstated that volunteers willbe needed to help with the AmgenTour event in Livermore inMay. The bicycle race will startin Livermore on May 18. Forinformation email livermoreatoc2011@yahoo.com.the fall of 2013, said Antill.Livermore and Zone 7 WaterAgency have come to an agreementon flood control managementfor the property. There alsowill be major road improvementsto enable traffic to come into thecenter from the nearby El CharroRoad exit from Interstate 580.Publisher: Joan Kinney SeppalaAssociate Publisher: David T. LowellEditor: Janet ArmantroutThe Independent is published every Thursday by Inland Valley Publishing Company, 2250 First St., Livermore,CA 94550; (925) 447-8700. Mailed at Periodical Postage Prices at the Livermore Post Office andadditional entry office: Pleasanton, CA 94566-9998. The Independent is mailed upon request. Go to www.independentnews.com to sign up and for more information. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to TheIndependent, 2250 First St., Livermore, CA 94550.Advertising rates and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (925) 447-8700during regular business hours or by fax: (925) 447-0212.Editorial information may be submitted by editmail@compuserve.com.Mayors Lobby for i-GATE, Public Access TVBringing news to Congressionalmembers about the i-GATE I-Hub being developed inLivermore, and lobbying for operationalmoney for TV 30 weremajor topics covered by LivermoreMayor Marshall Kamenaand Pleasanton Mayor JenniferHosterman in a visit to WashingtonD.C. in mid-January.The mayors were part of aTri-Valley mayors delegation thatattended the National Conferenceof Mayors convention. It isheld annually in January so thatmayors can have contact withCongress early in the legislativesession.The mayors spent the daybefore the conference meetingwith Reps. Jerry McNerney andJohn Garamendi, and the staffs ofRep. Pete Stark and Sens. DianneFeinstein and Barbara Boxer.The mayors had been briefedon i-GATE before their trip. Theymet with Sandia National Laboratoriesand Lawrence LivermoreNational Laboratory officials,who also provided them the latestinformation about the facilities(Livermore Valley Open Campus)that have been put in place atboth labs to facilitate technologytransfer from the labs to privatebusiness.Hosterman said the visit washighly beneficial, in that it putPresident Obama’s referencein his State of the Union addressJan. 25 to the U.S. Congressabout needing to make currenttimes another “Sputnik moment”resonated with Rep. Jerry Mc-Nerney of Pleasanton.Obama’s point was that whenthe Russians sent Sputnik up intospace in 1957 as the world’s firstsatellite orbiting the Earth, theUnited States rallied to meet thechallenge. There was a big pushto catch up with the Russiansby making school curriculumsstronger, and turning out moreengineers and physicists.The United States can do thatnow with the green economy, andworking cleaner and smarter tooutproduce other nations, saidObama.McNerney told The Independentthat he was in fifth gradewhen Sputnik was launched. “Itenergized everyone. We realizedthat we were in a race. I wentPOLICE(continued from page one)enforcement efforts in the pasttwo weeks have resulted in theidentification and arrests of 14gang offenders. Some of thesearrests are a result of criminalinvestigations stemming fromrecent crimes.Among the charges are felonyvandalism, weapons violation,and possession (drugs) for sale.In addition to proactive gangenforcement, Livermore policeare working with other lawenforcement agencies and theLivermore School District inorder to curb future problems.The department would also liketo involve the community in itsefforts to address gang relatedincidents.Currently, the prominentLivermore gangs are the Surenosthe i-GATE information beforeDavid Agnew, the mayors liaisonwith the White House. Theinnovative projects “are exactlythe kind of project that PresidentObama wants to share withpeople,” said Hosterman.Kamena said that the i-GATEinformation was so much on thecutting edge of Obama’s scienceand technology theme that anundersecretary of commerce whomet with the mayors said that hewould try to have a reference toLivermore’s i-GATE insertedinto the State of the Union address.However, it did not makeit into the speech.Kamena was glad to have thechance to tell Congressmen abouta new effort to provide publicprogramming channels, suchas TV 30, the chance to obtainoperational funding from cablefirms after June.In June, a new federal actcalled DIVCA takes over in cablefunding for PEG, which is thepublic, educational and governmentsegment of cable TV. Up tothat time, cable firms had to giverevenue to the locally generatedpublic programming entities suchas TV 30, based on a 50-cent persubscriber fee.After June, all those agreementswill be void. The newinto engineering because of it,”he said.McNerney went on to a sciencecareer. He is the only congressionalmember with a Ph.D.in math. Before his election toCongress, McNerney workedas a consultant on wind-powertechnology.Looking at today’s challenges,McNerney said, “We have tomaintain our lead. I am excitedabout the idea of encouragingand inspiring our young people.I have a little fear about whatwould happen if we don’t. Weneed to be competitive.”McNerney said that when hewas working as an wind engineer,he saw many clean tech jobsgoing abroad. For that reason,he was glad to hear Obama talkabout investing in clean energyjobs to keep the money in theUnited States, and reduce thenation’s dependency on foreignoil.formula will allow funding basedon a percentage, not the 50-centfee, provided that cities pass anordinance enabling it. Tri-Valleycities have passed it. However,the new fee will apply only tocapital improvements.What TV 30 and other localprogrammers need is to have theflexibility to also use that moneyfor operations. TV 30 has somevolunteers, but others are paidstaff.Melissa Tench Stevens, theexecutive director at TV 30, saidthat the station will be able to usethe revenue it receives from producingprograms for local groupsas part of its revenue. There arealso grants to be sought.TV 30 is establishing a communityfoundation, led by DavidWright, to promote grants foroperations.However, there is no questionthat allowing public cable to fundoperations with the future feepercentages would help TV 30,said Tench Stevens. Since the billis seeking no new money, justoffering more flexibility for theuse of the funds, Tench Stevenssaid that she is optimistic that itwill pass.Kamena said the bill hasbetter prospects in this sessionof Congress. For one thing, aRepublican congressman is beinglined up to be a co-author of thebill. In addition, the bill is beingseen as a “good government bill,”since it helps promote transparencyinto local government, saidKamena.Previously, DIVCA was seenmore as a money bill related totelecommunications.HOSTERMAN CHAIRSWATER PANEL AT MEETAt the National Conference ofMayors, Hosterman chaired thegroup’s water council, which has40 members.The group decided to hold asummit meeting in Racine, Wisc.,in September. “There will bemeaningful discussions with EPAand the Department of Justice”concerning regulations set byEPA that turn out to be unfundedmandates, said Hosterman.The issue affects cities thathave underground systems thatmove treated and untreated effluentand storm run-off water.EPA regulates the combinedoverflow, but there is no moneyto meet the regulations. Somecities across the country were notcomplying. The Department ofJustice is suing for compliance,Hosterman explained.McNerney, Garamendi Relate to Obama’s Sputnik Call(Opinions voiced in letterspublished in Mailbox are thoseof the author and do not necessarilyreflect the opinion of TheIndependent. Letter Policy: TheIndependent will not publishanonymous letters, nor will itpublish letters without names.Abusive letters may be rejectedor edited. Frequent letter writersmay have publication of theirletters delayed.)Mayors Go to DCMaurice DuenasLivermoreA recent article discussedhow 4 local mayors traveled toWashington DC to meet withCongressman McNerney. Inthese financially troubling times,when city budgets, public safetyand park services are being cutleft and right, these four mayorsfound it necessary to spend ourtax dollars to visit DC to "speak"with our Congressman.Reviewing the topics thatwere discussed I have to askWHY the mayors found it soimportant to waste money on atrip when there were two reallyeasy and significantly less expensivealternatives: McNerneyand the Nortenos. Sureno gangmembers wear variations of blueclothing and associate with thenumber 13. Some examples ofSureno gang graffiti are; “SSR,LSL, Sur, Chestnut, and XIII.”Sureno gang members are primarilyHispanic.Norteno gang members wearvarious items of red clothing andassociate with the number 14.Examples of Norteno gang graffitiare; “LVM, Winos, Norte, andXIV.” Norteno gang members areprimarily Hispanic; however, inLivermore the police have identifiedmembers from many races.Norteno and Sureno gangshave been in the City of Livermorefor decades, with little actsof violence between the two.A trend was identified severalregularly visits his district - whynot have met with him here, or iftime was of the essence, why nothave used technology - a videoconference - and saved thousandsand thousands of dollars thatcould have better well spent addressingimmediate needs withinour cities.I would love to see a full accountingof the money spent andalso the trip agenda / time actuallyspent with the Congressmanversus vacation time in our capital.Are any of the mayors willingto post the full accounting of thetrip on his or her city's website sowe can see how you spent OURmoney in DC?GARAMENDI EMPHA-SIZESKEEPING JOBS AT HOMEKeeping the money at homewas also a theme in Rep. JohnGaramendi’s response. Garamendihas been sponsoring legislationthat he calls “Make it inAmerica.”Garamendi said in a statement,“With the Recovery Actand other pro-growth, pro-jobslaws, we accomplished a lot, butwe need to do more. PresidentObama is right to call on thisCongress to pass legislation thatcreates jobs now.”Referring to the President’sSputnik remark, Garamendi said,“The President is correct. This isour Sputnik moment. Imagine ifwe had responded to the challengeof Sputnik by soaring to themoon in a space shuttle that wasmade in the Soviet Union.”“We could have gone thatroute — admitted failure andyears ago that showed SouthernCalifornia gang members movingnorth. Livermore was not immuneto the trend and now crimeprovoking rivalries are presentwhere none existed previously.Recent investigations revealedthat Livermore “active”gang membership (those whoare currently committing crimesin furtherance of a street gang)is relatively low. Police believethe same group of 10 -15 memberson each side (Sureno andNorteno) are responsible formost, if not all, of Livermore’sgang-related crime.The Livermore Police Departmentneeds the assistance of thepublic. Citizens are encouragedto report any suspected gangResponse to LetterKathy StreeterLivermoreNatalie Molina is obviouslya hard working wife and motherwho wants the best for her daughter.She is distraught by the cutsthat have disrupted our schoolsystem and she is looking for asolution. I have complete understandingand utter sympathy forher feelings.But, our schools are not supportedin any way by the GeneralFund. Our schools are supportedby property taxes, other State andFederal funds earmarked for specialpurposes, and a small amountfrom the California Lottery. Theonly local funding of our schoolscomes from interest income anddonations from the LivermoreValley Education Foundationand from individuals and groupsthat give money directly to thedistrict.But the major source of incomeis from property taxes andthose go up when our propertyvalues go up, and property valuesgo up when we live in a desirablelocation, one that has a lotto offer.It is important to understandthat the planned continued developmentof our downtown intoa cultural destination is a criticaldriving force for our future economicwell being. It enhancesthe value of our property andis the foundation of our downtownrenewal and expansion. Itincreases future school incomethrough property taxes and itfeeds our General Fund by promotingbusiness development.surrendered our economic andsecurity assets to another country.Instead, we focused on inventingand constructing crucial technology,which sparked a wave ofnew businesses and jobs.“Similarly, to address our twin21st century challenges of energysecurity and advanced infrastructure,we cannot depend on thekindness of other countries. Toenhance our geopolitical securityand to create the jobs of the future,we have to strengthen thesekey manufacturing sectors,”stated Garamendi.Pete Stark, Ranking Memberof the House Ways and MeansHealth Subcommittee, commented,“If we want to speedup our economic recovery, Republicansmust offer some ideasto create jobs. Their laser-likefocus on refighting health reformis hurting America’s economyand threatening our long-termcompetitiveness.” Stark representsa portion of Pleasantonand Sunol.activity. If suspected gang membersare congregating or involvedin criminal activity call LPDDispatch (925) 371-4987 (nonemergency).If the incident islife-threatening immediately call911 (emergency). Please provideas much information as possible,to include:1. Clothing descriptions andnumber of individuals involved.2. Vehicle descriptions andlicense plate numbers.3. Weapons involved, if any.4. Location and or the directionthe group is moving.Questions regarding Livermoregangs or gang information,should be addressed to SergeantK. Santin, Officer D. Blake orOfficer A. Grajeda.I also understand Mrs. Molina’sfrustration at not being ableto afford to take her daughterto the Bankhead Theater. Weneed to do better in making ourcultural advantages available toall our children.Sue Marchand, a talented andcreative teacher in our schoolsystem applied to the LivermoreCultural Arts Council for a grantto take her class to the Bankheadto see the Nutcracker. She spentthe weeks before the field tripeducating her class about liveperformance. By the time thechildren got there they were fullyprepared for the experience andit was a resounding success. Weneed to follow Mrs. Marchand’slead and come up with more waysto include all of Livermore’schildren in the benefits of artisticeducation.The Arts, our creativity andimagination are what set us apartfrom all other living beings. Itmakes us think in new ways andleads to unimaginable discoveryand innovation. We need toprotect and grow our culturalcommunity to ensure our childrenevery advantage in this verycompetitive world.

The Independent, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 - PAGE 5

PAGE 6 - The Independent, FEBRUARY 3, 2011Pleasanton Cavaliers Rugby Club middle school team inPleasanton Cavaliers Rugby Club took on the Las Gatos Lions recently,results: U8/10s: The feisty young Cavaliers were down to 6 playersin their game against the Lions down in Saratoga. Missing a playerdidn’t phase them as they battled head to head with both sides scoringTry after Try. Colin Miller was constantly in the right place at the righttime and able to pass the ball out to some great handling by DuncanHicks-Frazer and Nathan Comiskey who in turn were getting the ballout to some super fast running and Try scoring by Angus Hicks-Frazer(4), Euan Houston (2) and Kyle (2). U14s: This was a tremendous gamewith every player getting involved. The final score was over 70 to 0.Everyone kicked and ran and at least 6 players scored Tries. Extrapoints were kicked beautifully, rucking and mauling was exceptionaland the back line movement was fluid with set piece training movescarried out very well.Livermore WrestlingLivermore High School varsitywrestling team defeated Amador Valley, 49to 21, in matches held in Livermore.Livermore's Krenz came back from a 5-0deficit to defeat Hamilton in OT. O'Callaghandefeated Nevearez in a hard fought andclosely contested match. Livermore JVimproved to 5-0 in EBAL matches defeatingAV JV 64-6.Results: 103 -- Barrera (A) d. Cortez 4-0;112 -- Yozzo (A) p. Lang 3:43; 119 -- Hastings(L) p. Westcott 1:21; 125 -- Disbrow (L) p.Kelley 0:54; 130 -- Krenz (L) d. Hamilton8-6; 135 -- Bohland (L) d. Bain 10-2; 140-- Rardon (L) d. Aslam 6-4; 145 -- Buccolo(A) p. Rodriguez 3:29; 152 -- O'Callaghan(L) d. Nevearez 4-0; 160 -- Morgan (L) p.Veit 2:30; 171 -- Mitchler (L) p. Dhinsa 2:58;189 -- Chubb (A) p. McNaney 2:39; 215 --Crispin (L) f. :47; 285 -- Neale (L) f.Livermore AquacowboysThirty-one Livermore Aquacowboysswim team participated in SRVLA’s meeton 1/22/11-1/23/11.New Best Times were achieved byGabriel Akins, Jessica Akins, Xander Bass,Taylor Brennan, Tori Carroll, Jenna Chew,Allie Clark, Taber Da Costa, Paige Da Costa,Caroline Eckel, Megan Fairbanks, AlexanderGonzalez, Christopher Gonzalez, MatthewHayes, Romane Lagouche, Sydney Magann,Daiki Nishikawa, Jack Rehberger, KatherineRehberger, Brianna Reynolds, Ben Rocha,Julia Rocha, Morgan Roddy, Rachel Roddy,Sydney Rosenberg, Brandon Siu, CollinTrump, Larissa Trump, Hannah Watts, andMegan Wilcox.For more information about the LivermoreAquacowboys, please contact us at925-443-7700, at www.lacswimming.org,or on Facebook.Pleasanton RageA confident Pleasanton Rage U13 Orangeteam appeared on the field to play the first oftwo State Cup consolation games, defeatingCOSC-S Odyssey South G97 Red by a 1 to 0score. Shots were taken by Hailey Mann andCarley Robertson, shots on goal by MakennaElias, Sophie Santos and Milan Moses, whoeventually scored the game winning goal.With that win over the Central Valley PremierLeague Champions, Rage secured their spotas one of the top eight teams in the statein their age range. Top Offensive Players:Milan Moses; Top Defensive Players: JuliaDensmore, Makenna EliasIt was an uncharacteristically shaky gamefor Pleasanton Rage as they faced anothermember of the Elite 8, Placer United, in thequarterfinals of the State Cup. Despite foursaves by keeper Sophia Brown, including twoimpressive stops of free kicks, a trio of shotsby Milan Moses and another trio of shots ongoal by Symone Darius and Malissa Shadle,Rage dropped their game 2-0.BUSC 2011 PlacementDatesPleasanton Ballistic United Soccer Club(BUSC) has released its 2011 placement datesfor the upcoming 2011-12 soccer season. Thesessions are scheduled around the two 3-dayholiday weekends during the month of February.BUSC has also rented the turf fieldsat Las Positas College in order to eliminateany possible rain out issues.These placements are for all competitivelevels of play for the age groups below.The U9 & U10 age groups will run inthe “academy” format, which means playerswill be selected from a player pool of the top50 players for each age group. These playerswill train together during the March-Maytime frame. Coaches will use this springtraining to determine what team the playerswill be placed upon after they return fromthe club break, which takes place from June17 through July 4.Each age group will have 5 teams of10 players.A U9/10 academy parent informationnight will be announced soon soon. Pleasecheck the website for details.All parents are asked to register theirkids for try outs by completing the registrationform available on the website www.busc.org. This pre-registration process willallow BUSC to properly prepare with staffand equipment.U9-U10 Age Groups: Saturday, February5 & Sunday, February 6, Las PositasCollege (turf field) both days; Age 9: 9:30am-10:30am; Age10: 11:00am-12:30pmU11-U14 Age Groups: Saturday,February 26 & Sunday, February 27, LasPositas College (turf field) both days; Age11: 8:30am-10:30am; Age 12: 11:00am-1:00pm; Age 13: 1:30pm-3:30pm; Age 14:4:00pm-6:00pmU15-U16 Age Groups: Tuesday, April12 & Thursday, April 14, Val Vista Park;Age 15: 4:00pm-5:30pm; Age 16: 5:30pm-7:00pmU17-U18 Age Groups: Thursday, April21 & Friday, April 22, Val Vista Park, Age 17:4:00pm-5:30pm; Age 18: 5:30pm-7:00pmU19 Select & Advanced: Val VistaPark, 4:00pm-6:00pmSeahawks ShineThe Pleasanton Seahawks Swim Team(PLS) turned in many sparkling performancesat the San Ramon (SRVLA) hosted C/B/A+Meet January 22 & 23. The age group swimmersrecorded many new times and cuts.Pre-Novice swimmers: New “B” times:Christina Coatney - 25/50 free, 25/50 breast,along with outstanding performances in the25 fly & 25 back; Kirsten Patron - 25 breastand a great performance in the 50 back.Niyantri Maudgalya had strong swims inthe 25 fly, 25 breast and 50 back.Novice performances: Mattias Bengtsson- lifetime best (LTB) “B” in 50 free/50back, Aaron Lin swam six events trimming14.53 seconds off 100 back, Rohith Sajithswam well in three events and Suhasiny Naikswam well in two events.Intermediate II group: Grace Kim - brokeinto the PLS "8 & Under All Time Top 10"in the 25 free (6th), 50 free (7th), 50 back(4th), 50 fly (6th) and 100 IM (8th).Intermediate I group: New “B” Times:Rachana Mukkamala, Kyle Kenny and AlexLuo. New “A” times: Duhita Gondhalekar,Sophia Bueche, Resha Panda, PaulinaUmansky, Chris Lam, Nick Wonosaputra.New PRT's: Alex Ren.Varsity Group: New “B” times: TeesaHeidari, Sophia Passin and Manas Abhyankar.New ”A” times: Jae Williams, JoeDing, Henry Huang and Matt Huo. 100%Best Times: Shilpa Krish.Pre-Junior and Junior performances:Tanaya Gondhalekar - 100% best times anda new JO in the 50 free; Miranda Heckma– 100% best times and a new PRT time 50back; Nja Zuniga made 4 new JO times;Paarsa Heidari - 4 new best times; OlivierRooney – 100% best times; Will Rose - newJO 100 back; Ben Sproul - 6 new best times;Sofia Barrera - 3 new best times; NataliaBello - 4 new best times; AK Antonio - 100%best times; Niklas Bengtsson - 3 new besttimes; Kevin Gao - 2 new best times; AlexPictured are the Blue Angels U8 girls indoor soccer champions(back row) Faith Johnson, Taylor Green, Autumn DeLange,Coach Valerie, McKenna Keowen, Vanessa von Sosen, EmmaRhodes; (front row) Katie DeMillo, Emmy Wolf, Kaeli Tembrevilla,Grace Spievak, Kyhlie Weed, Carly Mitchell, and Madison Ray.Kuang - 3 new best times and Ray Ohhashi- 3 new best times.Youth RugbyPleasanton Cavaliers Rugby Club resultsfrom last week:U8/10s: Pleasanton Cavaliers Vs Lamorinda:The Pleasanton Cavaliers visited Lamorindafor a round-robin 7-a-side tournament.The youngest Cavaliers were not phased byhard rain and once again came out to play acharged series of matches with elegant offenseand aggressive defense. The Cavaliersplayed fluid games with fast passing and evenfaster running. The 1st game saw a score of12-0 to the Cavaliers and the 2nd game wasa 6-3 win for Lamorinda. The boys neverlost their poise and the last minutes of the2nd game saw an inspired 60m run by EuanHouston for a Try.U12s: Pleasanton Cavaliers Vs Lamorinda:The U12s demonstrated great improvementin their game awareness especiallythe backs who were getting set up quicklyon defense and offense. There was someexcellent tackling in games 1 & 3 whilst theywere having their first group experience ofplaying in a field of mud. 1st Game 3 – 1 toLamorinda with "Pizza" playing lock, pickedup a loose ball in Lamo's Try zone for thescore. 2nd Game 4 – 0 to Lamorinda. 3rdGame 3 – 1 Lamorinda with Patrick Michieplaying Scrum Half took a run off Lamo'spenalty from 5 m out, breaking 3 tacklesfor a diving Try.Middle School: Pleasanton CavaliersKOT Vs Mother Lode & Sierra Foothill:Over 100 rugby clubs were represented atthe KOT in cold rainy Sacramento at theweekend and the Cavaliers Middle Schoolsquad triumphed in both their matches. 1stGame 29-0 to Cavaliers against Mother Lodewith the Cavaliers being well prepared andfast on their feet. This was the first match ofthe year with contested scrums being allowedand ML were just not ready for the constantPC surge. Forwards Zach Shackleford, JackReynolds and Tyler Nunnery, with pivotalHooker Zaya Kolias showing tremendouseffort and determination at every scrum.Scrum Half KC Stevenson was constantlyhounded by the opposition but still managedto offload passes to Fly Half Paul Campand Backs Patrick Pipitone, Collin Maasand Ryan Elazegui. Scores were providedby David Bartolomucci and Kolias, withJustin Silliman scoring 3 Tries. Pierre-LouisMarie converted after a Try and Campa alsoPictured are members of the West Coast Olympic Gymnasticsteam. They are Whitney Estrada, Katelyn Kleinheinz, IsabellaOrecchia, Sean Tafuri.

The Independent, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 - PAGE 7provided a single conversion.The 2nd game, 15-5, displayed muchhigher levels of execution with 0-0 stillbeing the score at half time. Sierra Foothillraced a 70+ yard Try through the heart ofthe Cavaliers in the start of the 2nd half butthe Cavalier determination came back tomatch them with Michael Balasteri scoringa Try. Once energized the Cavalierssustained 2 more scoring drives from DavidBartolomucci scoring a Try from his fullbackposition and Jacob Felix in his first rugbymatch ever.West Coast GymnasticsWest Coast Olympic GymnasticsAcademy girl's optional team competedat the Byers Roseville Invitational held atSacramento State on Sunday January 23,2011. The team is coached by Mike Lynch. Itis located in Pleasanton. The level 9/10 teamcame home with a 3rd place trophy.Results are as follows:Level 10: Sean Tafuri, Vault 9.000(3rd), Bars 6.850 (5th), Beam 9.200 (3rd),Floor 8.450 (6th), All Around 33.500 (5th,Level 10)Level 9: Whitney Estrada, Vault 8.800(4th), Bars 8.250 (4th), Beam 8.600 (3rd),Floor 9.200 (1st), All Around 34.850 (2nd,older); Katelyn Kleinheinz, Vault 8.850(2nd), Bars 7.450 (5th), Beam 8.800 (2nd),Floor 8.000 (7th), All Around 33.100 (5th,older); Isabella Orecchia, Vault 8.000(6th), Bars 7.150 (5th), Beam 7.850 (5th),Floor 8.200 (5th), All Around 31.200 (6th,younger)Level 7: Anna Siebel, Vault 8.900 (4th),Bars 8.775 (6th), Beam 9.250 (2nd), Floor8.800 (7th), All Around 35.725 (4th, youngerA); Morgan Fiske, Vault 8.700 (7th), Bars8.625 (3rd), Beam 9.000 (4th), Floor 8.800(8th), All Around 35.125 (3rd, older); LorenCouture, Vault 8.550 (10), Bars 7.250 (8),Beam 8.300 (7th), Floor 8.575 (9th), AllAround 32.675 (7th, older)Ernie Rodrigues Softball Complex, 1717 S.Livermore Ave. or Max Baer Softball Field,1310 Murdell Lane.The following leagues are offered thisseason: Sunday, Masters 35+ (intermediate-advanced)& Seniors 50+ (beginnerintermediate);Monday, Men’s D3 (beginner,intermediate, advanced), Men’s Blueand Men’s Gold (intermediate advanced);Tuesday, Business Coed (intermediateadvanced);Wednesday, Men’s D Open, DMajors (intermediate- advanced); Thursday,Men’s D1 and D2 (intermediate- advanced);Friday, Coed D1 (intermediate-advanced),Coed D2 (beginner-immediate).Space is limited for adult softball, thereforeearly registration is advised. Leagues(continued on page 8)Youth SoccerThe Blue Angels came out strong to winthe U8 Girls Indoor Soccer Championshipgame by beating the Kickin' Kittens 14 to 1.All the Blue Angels had an amazing game.Kaeli Tembrevilla started off the scoringwith a strong kick into the goal in the firstminute of the game. Katie DeMillo, EmmaRhodes, Taylor Green, Kyhlie Weed, Vanessavon Sosen, and Autumn DeLange alsoscored goals in the game. Carly Mitchell,McKenna Keowen, Madison Ray, FaithJohnson, Grace Spievak and Emmy Wolfplayed very well at midfield providing greatoffensive and defensive support. The goalies- Vanessa von Sosen, Faith Johnson, KaeliTembrevilla and Grace Spievak had multiplesaves only allowing one goal in the entiregame. The Blue Angels ended the indoorsession undefeated.CYO BasketballIt was a fantastic season closer for theSt. Michael's/St. Charles (SM/SC) 8th gradegirls Wolfpack team with a 23-17 nail-biteragainst St. Joan in CYO basketball action.There was an outstanding defensive effortby forward, Paige Walker, pulling down apersonal best and matching a team record9 rebounds. Running a close second wereCameo Schubert and Kirah Van Trease with 8each. Kirah also had a great offensive gamesinking 40% from the field, plus 3 steals and ablocked shot. Leading the scoring effort waspoint guard, Sarah Partridge, also shooting40% and dropping in half the team's pointswith 11; add to that 4 rebounds, 2 steals and1 assist. Ashley Breyer was 1 for 1 adding 2more points, a rebound and causing a turnoverin the foward position. Liz Fleming, JessicaElfin and Kelly Borden rounded out thescoring with an additional 6 points. An alltime high 42 rebounds by the Pack provedtoo tough for the St. Joan squad.• • •The SM/SC 8th grade girls Wolfpackteam came out with their claws drawnscratching their way toward the top of theleader-board with a 34-28 win over St. Joanfor the second straight week. Sarah Partridgewas on fire with fast breaks, shooting 54%with her second season high game of 17points. Cameo Schubert also recorded apersonal best, team high record 9 rebounds.An excellent job was turned in by Cameo underneath.Ashley Breyer found her strengthdown low snagging 4 rebounds and scoring2 points. Brandi Meyer had a tougher jobup top but pulled in 4 rebounds, 2 steals,shutting down St. Joan’s offensive drive aswell as shooting 33% from the field. KellyBorden finished strong with 9 attempts, 6points, 2 steals, a rebound, a blocked shotand 3 assists. The Pack continues to putforth outstanding efforts each week lookingforward to the playoffs.• • •SM/SC 6th grade Spartans CYO team#604 beat St. Isidore #602 38-23 in CYObasketball play Sunday. The Spartans jumpedto a 10 point lead in the first quarter andnever looked back. Jacob Murdoch playeda great all around game with 18 points,6 rebounds, 6 steals, and 4 assists. FrankGomez was also instrumental in the finaloutcome with 7 points, 6 rebounds, and 2steals. PJ Kalcic chipped in an additional6 points and had 3 rebounds while PatrickSchwartz pulled down 7 rebounds and addedanother 2 points.• • •The SM/SC 5th grade girls Swoosh teamcontinued its winning streak with victory #9beating a very tough St. Isidore team 15-12.Point guard Nicole Bartels shot 50% fromthe field sinking half the Swoosh's points forthe win. Center, Katie Marcel, had a record8 blocked shots as well as 11 attempts andscored 4 points. Emily March shut downthe key with 6 rebounds, 7 attempts and 2points. Katie Gomez rounded out the scorewith 2 more points, a steal and 2 reboundsunderneath. Great hustle by the Swooshteam was just too tough for St. Isidore tohandle.It was another great win by the SM/SCPhoto - Doug JorgensenGranada High School defeated Amador Valley, 67 to 57 in EBALboys varsity basketball action. In the photo, Tyler Pagett (40) ofGranada goes up for a shot over Amador’s Matt Lady (21).5th grade girls Swoosh team with a strongfinish against St. Isidore, 24-10. Everymember of the team participated fully.Chelsea Warner and Emma Zika played atough defensive zone, not allowing St. Isidoreto penetrate the key. They also put up 10attempts, 4 points, with Emma snagging 4rebounds on the day. Maddy Valone put up9 attempts, scored 2 points, snagged a steal,a rebound and caused 2 turnovers. KatieFournier assisted in shutting down the keyup top with a great effort on steals and jumpballs. Katie Marcel came alive offensivelywith 12 attempts, 6 points and a record 10rebounds and 2 blocked shots.* * *SM/SC CYO 4th grade boys' team(#423), aka Club Penguin, was defeated bySt. Joan's (#422), 23-10 in its final game of theseason. Devon Shah scored eight points forthe winning team, while Dutchy Theirman,Carson Griffey, and Anthony Fernandez eachscored four points for St. Joan's. For ClubPenguin, Drew Braudrick, who excelled duringhis time playing point guard, scored sixpoints and Logan Finch and Eric Valdez eachscored two. Defensive praise goes to JasonWiggington for his rebounding efforts.• • •The Pleasanton Orange Crush won ahard fought game against the Lasers 14-5 inCYO basketball. Hope Alley, Ellen Ebbers,Nicy Trucco, Lexi Trucco and Allie Simonwere all stars today for the Orange Crush.For the Lasers, Mallorie Stiner, Kami Farro,Lyndsay Harnish and Jacqueline Arnold allcontributed to a great game.• • •4th grade A team SM/SC Wolverineslost to St. Joan's, 32-19. The Wolverinesplayed well but were not able to recoverfrom a 10-0 run made by St Joan early inthe 2nd quarter. Derek Eijansantos led theWolverines with 6 points.• • •SM/SC 408 Gladiators vs SM/SC 405(8-17): In the Gladiators final game, NathanFindley, RJ Mata and Frankie Silva all scored.Jonathan Nguyen, Rayn Heise and CameronMcGee played outstanding offense,WyattMoseley, Jonathan Mulrooney and JoshFreitas played skillful defense to keep thegame close for three quarters.In the fourthquarter 405's Ian Partridge, Grant Dufek andNathan Hanscom outscored the Gladiatorstaking the game 17-8.• • •The 4th Grade SMSC boys team Ninjacame away with another win on Sundayagainst St. Isidore-411. The Ninjas won30-26 bringing their record for the season to7-2. Jordan Collom led the team in offenseputting up 16 points. Cameron Schraderalso had a strong day on offense with eightpoints. On defense, Collin Eads and BradleyMitchell both contributed with steals. JackMolitoris and Owen Dawson also assistedwith multiple rebounds.• • •The SM/SC CYO 3 rd grade girls’ team,more commonly known as the MightyCagers are nearing in on a perfect season.Most of these girls have come up thru theSM/SC 1 st & 2 nd grade program and a couplehave never played organized before thisyear. Afew girls couldn’t even reach thebasket let alone dribble the ball at the startof the season and now all are scoring andhandling the ball. Players have asked formore practice time to work on shooting.One player always wantedsome clarificationon the rules. Then there’s the player whowanted to make sure she is on time to thegame and the player who never wanted tocome off the court. Sunday’s game will beour final game of the season and whateverthe final score shall be, the Mighty Cagerswill conclude what will always been knownto their coaches as the perfect season. TeamMembers: Jordan Briggs, Lourdes Cacacho,Jillian Collom, Ariel Conley, Emma Hyde,Laura Marshall, Jackie Parker, AmandaPrice, and Carlie Spruiell• • •The 1st/2nd grade CYO SM/SC Monarchsvs. Cobra played an energized lastgame of the season. Monarchs Top Players:Anna Leary, Dakoda Hood, Emma Kello,Erin Schrader, Jadyn Lange, Jayden Thomas,Karlie Geissbuhler, Kylee Black, OliviaTurner, Sonia Fletcher; Team Cobra TopPlayers: Braden Blacklock, Nicholas Carrano,Nathan Lee, Jaxson Mosby, BrandonNorton, Ethan Poe, Payton Spurlock andPeter Storjohan.• • •SMSC 1st/2nd grade girls, The ShootingSharks, played an exciting and energetic finalgame of the season against The ShootingStars. Top players for Shooting Sharks: CamilleWigginton (Defense), Wyatt Nostrand(Offense) Gianna DeMayo and Hannah Whitelock(All Around). Top players for ShootingStars: Mackenzie Hoffman (Defense),Kendall Waugh (Offense) Skylar Jester andJulia Passannante (All Around).Bocce Kits for RentFollowing the debut of two new boccecourts at the freshly renovated BothwellPark, the Livermore Area Recreation andPark District is now making bocce ball kitsavailable for rent to the public.Bocce ball kits can be checked out for aweek at a time from the Robert LivermoreCommunity Center. The kits are available atthe front counter from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Monday through Friday.Rental for one week is $20, plus a $40refundable deposit by credit card or cash – atotal of $60. The $40 deposit is refundable ifequipment is returned in good condition. Kitsare rented on a first-come, first-served basis;reservations are not available in advance.Rental of a bocce ball kit does not guaranteea bocce ball court will be available.The Robert Livermore Community Centeris located at 4444 East Ave., Livermore.Bothwell Park is located at 2466 EighthSt., Livermore. For more information, call925-373-5700.NorCal Grizzlies BaseballNorCal Grizzlies Baseball is currentlyevaluating players ages 9U thru 14U for 2011spring tournament baseball season. Seasonruns through July and includes 13 local tournaments,1 tournament in SoCal, 2x weeklypractices at indoor training facility and outdoorfields, and complete uniform package.Please contact Tom Graham, Head Coach, at925-922-5050 or tomg@norcalgrizzlies.org.Schedule an evaluation at www.norcalgrizzlies.org/2011springballreg.html.Roller Hockey SignupValley Inline Hockey in Livermore isgetting ready for Spring with Youth Leaguesignups. Signups will be Saturday, February6 at the rink 11am-1pm. The rink is locatedbehind Junction Ave. Middle School withparking off Ladd Ave. Leagues includeMites (ages 6 and under) free learn to playand skate class; Squirts (ages 7-8), PeeWees(9-12), and Bantams (13-16). Equipmentcan be borrowed as long as the participantshave skates. Session starts mid-March. Formore details on costs and league call us at925-443-1500 or check the web at www.valleyrollerhockey.netAdult Softball LeaguesThe Livermore Area Recreation and ParkDistrict is offering adult softball leagues forspring 2011.League fees are $795 for men’s, coed andbusiness teams and to $650 for men’s seniorteams. General registration starts Tuesday,Feb. 1, and goes through Monday, Feb. 28.LARPD Spring 2011 adult softballleagues run April 15 to July 10 unlessmake-up games need to played. The leagueteams are based on a 10-game schedule, plusplayoffs for the top four teams. All gamesare in the evening and will be played at

PAGE 8 - The Independent, FEBRUARY 3, 2011Photo - Doug JorgensenAmador Valley High School girls junior varsity basketball teamdefeated Granada 35 to 27. In the photo, Cambi Cukar (33) ofAmador, sets to attempt a shot over a Granada defender. TheGranada varsity team defeated Amador Valley, 41 to 33.Coaches vs. Cancer Fundraiserat Las PositasThe Las Positas College women’sand men’s basketball teamsinvite the community to join theCoaches vs. Cancer campaignby attending fund-raising gamesand events at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.,respectively, on Wednesday,February 16. Both games willbe played against teams from theCity College of San Francisco.All proceeds will be donatedto the American Cancer Society.Ticket prices are general admission,$5; students (with ID), seniors,and staff, $3; and childrenunder 10, free.“This disease has impactedmillions of people, includingseveral individuals in our ownprograms. Our staff, coaches,and student athletes are committedto raising as much money aspossible to fight cancer,” saidDean/Athletic Director DyanMiller of Physical Education,Athletics, Health, and Wellness.She added that many of the basketballplayers will bring a cancersurvivor they know.Coaches vs. Cancer is a statewideeffort by 41 communitycollege basketball coaches toraise funds and awareness tofight cancer.Las Positas College has eightintercollegiate team sports: men’sand women’s soccer, cross country,basketball, and swimmingand diving. The college offersan extensive selection of classesin Physical Education, Athletics,Health, and Wellness. For moreinformation about the athleticprogram and sports events, pleasecall (925) 424-1290 or visit thewebsite at www.laspositascollege.edu/athletics/index.php.Las Positas College is locatedat 3000 Campus Hill Drive inLivermore.PLANNING(continued from page one)will affect how you make decisions.It is a call to action. Stayinvolved. We are trying to formpolicy that makes this a betterplace, not just for us but for futuregenerations.”Mark Green, Union City Mayorand President of ABAG, notedthat land use and transportationplanning will be tighter than everbefore. “The regional assignedhousing numbers will be a partof this process, as will a regionaltransportation plan that everyonecan get onboard with. The landuse plan will identify primarydevelopment and primary conservationareas.”Ten targets have been identifiedfor the SCS. There are twomandatory elements within theten targets: reduce green housegases and allocate housing for alllevels of income. Other targetsaddress health issues, placingnon-agricultural developmentwithin the urban footprint, growingthe economy, and decreasingautomobile trips.“There will be an ongoingdialog with all cities and countiesin the Bay Area over the nexttwo years concerning the SCS,”Green stated.Ezra Rapport, ABAG executivedirector, said the theme ofSCS is One Bay Area. “If we actindependently, we will waste resources.It turns off the public andwe will be unlikely to meet goalsestablished by the state. The rulesof the game will change in orderto achieve sustainability.” Hedescribed SB 375 as the culminationof ten years of work. Itallows regions to have their ownplans for sustainability. The plansare updated every four years.He repeated the theme thattransportation, housing growthand land use must align. The BayArea hasn’t built enough homes,said Rapport. It is estimated that900,000 units would be neededover the next 25 years. The planwill demonstrate where thoseunits could be located in a sustainableway.Rapport said that in the pastwhen ABAG assigned housingnumbers to cities and counties,the “fair share” method wasused. A different methodologywill be developed. The allocationwill move to an eight yearcycle and be consistent with theSCS. In determining allocations,the committee will look at suchthings as how jobs and housing fittogether. There will be an effortto reduce the cost of housing andincrease the use of transportation.Rapport added, there will be incentivesto promote that type ofgrowth within cities. Incentivescould provide money to helpwith infrastructure or to completeprojects. He said that none of theprograms will be forced on cities.There will be no change in localauthority over land use decisions.There will be no commitment tobuilding the housing.Rapport noted that the City ofLivermore has already receivedlivable communities grants. Onefor $2.1 million includes buildingpedestrian connections fornew development and the transitcenter. A $2.5 million grant supportsthe purchase of affordablehousing sites near transit centers.Dublin has been given $3.75 millionto provide pedestrian accessfor new transit oriented developmentto the BART station.Each city and each county inthe Bay Area will review the proposedSCS. ABAG is looking forreactions from city councils byMarch 2011. Realistic scenarioswill then be developed for reviewin July 2011. The preferredscenario will be approved in2012, then sent to the state forits endorsement.Ann Flemer, MTC, discussedpotential investment strategies.One could provide funding assistanceto build affordable housingclose to transit. There has been$10 million provided with a challengefrom banks to provide additionalfunding. The challenge hasresulted in $50 million in loansavailable to developers.Haggerty said his concern isthe housing numbers. A lot ofpopulation will be pushed intothe urban core. He predicted thatthe cities that take the populationwill take the transportationdollars. He told MTC, “Don’tabandon the suburbs. There aretremendous transportation needs.The I-580 corridor gets goodsand people to the ports.”Haggerty noted that many ofthe programs coming out of theSCS will be voluntary. However,one aspect, adherence toair quality regulations, will bemandatory.Jack Broadbent of BAAQMDpointed out that the goal of thenew air quality regulations is toreduce emissions through betterland use planning. The agencyhas established guidelines to helpplanning agencies to quantify andmitigate emissions.Henry Hilken, BAAQMD,said regulations aim to supportinfill, transit oriented developmentand mixed use projectsand provide the environmentalguidelines to accomplish thattype of development. Air qualityis part of the review process forany project, he stated. Air qualitystandards are becoming morestringent. Motor vehicles are thelargest source of air pollution inthe Bay Area. In local communities,freeway interchanges demonstratea higher level of dieselemissions. Local exposures toemissions occur near freeways,railyards and shipyards, Hilkenstated.The BAAQMD, in establishingits guidelines, looked at areaswhere diesel exhaust is high, andwhere the greatest concentrationof high risk populations, such asthose under age 18, and wherethose susceptible to asthma arelocated. Hilken commented,“Health studies show that livingnear highways has serious healthconsequences. It’s bad for you.We are attempting to reduceexposures through enforcementand grants.”The rules will apply to newresidential development. Theywill go into effect May 1, 2011.Under the guidelines, air qualitywould be measured withina 1000 foot radius of a housingdevelopment. Hilken explainedthat potential conflicts betweendevelopment and air quality canoften be resolved through sitespecific analysis and reasonablemitigation. He encouraged communitiesto develop risk reductionplans.He added that the Air Districtis interested in working with citiesand counties in developingcommunity risk reduction plans(CRRPs). These CRRPs wouldallow a comprehensive, community-wideapproach to reducinglocal air pollution emissionsand exposures. They also mayassist with CEQA complianceby supporting a programmaticapproach to reducing local airquality impacts.Livermore City CouncilmemberDoug Horner askedabout the impact on implementingthe plan if the governor’splan to eliminate redevelopmentagencies were a success.Rapport, ABAG executivedirector, noted that redevelopmenthas been successful in movingforward infill development.“What’s on the table is wipingout future funds for this type ofdevelopment. Politics is liningup pretty strongly in support ofthe governor’s plan. Republicansaren’t friendly towards redevelopment.It may be necessary tolook at alternatives or reform thecurrent process.”Pleasanton City CouncilmemberCindy McGovern wonderedhow cities would fund police,fire and other services if theywere to take on more growth.Rapport said those are itemsthat need to be put on the table.“One thought would be that if acommunity were to take on moregrowth, it may receive a higherproperty tax share.”Dublin Mayor Tim Sbranticommented that there was a lot ofpotential for infill developmentin Livermore, Pleasanton andDublin. There are opportunitiesto create housing and jobs centersin the Tri-ValleyRapport said that he agreed.“We want to move away fromthe focus on housing. The goal isto provide transit to job centers.Connectivity is needed.”Dale Kaye, Livermore Chamberof Commerce executivedirector, was concerned about thelack of specific ideas to improvethe economy.Rapport said we are missingan economic development strategyin the Bay Area. There hasbeen a flat rate in the growth injobs. “To maintain the incomesand quality of life we have tobe more proactive in supportingjobs. The Obama administrationwould be supportive. It has beenactively promoting more exportsfrom this area.”(continued from page 7)must sign up in person at the Robert LivermoreCommunity Center, 4444 East Ave.Teams must submit their complete roster andleague fees at the time of registration. Spring2011 adult softball information can be viewedon page 29 of the online Winter/Spring 2011Classes & Programs Brochure, available atwww.larpd.dst.ca.us. For more informationregarding leagues, registration or schedules,please call Jim Carlson at 925-373-5712.PGSL Registration2011 Registration is still open for somedivisions in the Pleasanton Phantom GirlsSoftball League. All girls living in Pleasanton,Dublin and Sunol are eligible to play. Weencourage families with daughters in gradesK-3 to register as there are still openings."Black" division teams have been formed,and "Teal" division teams are nearly finalized.There is still room in a few of PGSL's "White"divisions. Register ASAP as opening day isjust a few weeks away. Two ways to register:1) Online at www.pleasantonsoftball.org; 2)Mail-in: PGSL, P.O. Box 911 , Pleasanton, CA 94566 (download a registration formfrom thewebsite). Late fee of $25 appliedafter 11/30/10. For more information orquestions, email Christine Tanis at christine.t@pleasantonsoftball.org.Primetimers League, bowled 243, AlmaTaasevigen 232, Norm Taasevigen 210, RonKnott 207, John Foscalina 204 and CharleyHenderson 201.Youth bowlers in the Generation GapLeague included Katelynn Goddard whorolled 215, Jacky Falting 214, Justin Pehargon213, Tyler Filtou 209, Justin Agness 209and Curtis Agness 201.In the 46th Annual Livermore ValleyTournament Sam Carter bowled299-268-248=815 series, Chris Hillman300-247-267=814 series, Carlie Medina287-288-235=810 series, Greg Thompson248-279-279=806 series and Mike Cristofani236-279-289=804 series. Goerge Aboud,Ray Salas Chris Hillman and Steve Smollenall rolled a "Perfect" 300 game. MarkMcCreary and Sam Carter each bowled299 game.Bowling NewsDana Christoffersen, in the GenerationGap League, bowled 209, 204 and 180 fora 593 series that was 149 pins over averageat the Granada Bowl in Livermore. DannyNothwang, in the Practice Kings & QueensLeague, rolled 192, 230 and 174 for a 596series,161 pins over. Tom Crane, in theDonna's Mixers League bowled, 268, 214and 227 for a 709 series. Ray Salas, in theCheyenne League, rolled 279, 246 and 257for a 782 series.Ralph Soto, in the Getaway FoursLeague, bowled a 280 game, Sean Kyle266, John Easley 245, Dave Moore 233, AlMotley 227, Rich Novotny 226, Ron Sato223 and Alyson Trevett 201. Derrek Gillians,in the Match Point League, rolled 265, TimSpringer 259, Roger Purta 255, Ralph Soto247, Gene Tanaka 245, Mike Silva 235, TimWeiland 228 and Mark Eiden 227. MariaLockridge, in the 4 Seasons Heating & AirLeague, recorded a 278 game, Billy McClain267, Fred McCarrel 267, Lloyd Block 259,David Drabb 258, Dave Erwin 257, DavidBunch 257, Matt Coleman 254, Tom Roberts243 and Nick Block 242. Duane Moschetti, inthe Practice Kings & Queens League, rolled266, Judy Sheehan 213, Jeff Zaballos 212,Daniel Dunn and Tammy Ragusa 208. GeneBruihl, in the Cheyenne League, bowled268, Rich Canada 259, Mark McCreary 259,Joe Delise 258, Mushy Machado 246, JimMoeller 243 and Dave DeBus 231. KeithWilson, in the Early Years Fun Time League,rolled 244, Mike Wood 226, Steve Reitz 221,Brian Johmann 212, Ray Siegfries 203 andTammy Butkiewics 202. Larry Tehero, inthe Family Affair League, bowled 217 andMike Collins 214.Morning League bowlers in the MondayPrimetimer League included Harold Huntwho rolled 226, Frank Cerros 226, DickGreene 210, Dave Phipps 208, Otis Farris203. Don Tunison, in the Sirs & SirettesLeague, bowled 256, Bill Nawrocki 222,Patty Uhlich 213 and Linda Helbacka199. Doug Parker, in the Donna's Mixer'sLeague, rolled 253, Paul Guerrero 225, ClintMcFaddin 212, John Foscalina 208, DickBraden 203, Jackie Thompson 201 and BillNawrocki 200. Rich Baguio, in the Friday

The Independent, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 - PAGE 9Festival VolunteersThe 20th annual Livermore WineCountry Festival will be held April 30and May 1, 2011. This event attractsover 100,000 attendees. Volunteersare needed to help make the event asuccess. Festival hours are Saturday10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The wine pouringshifts are Saturday 10:30 a.m. (½hour to set up) to 2:00 p.m. and 2:00p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (1/2 hour to cleanup). Sunday 10:30 a.m. (½ hour toset up) to 1:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to4:30 p.m. (1/2 hour to clean up).The Livermore Downtown Inc.insurance carrier and the City ofLivermore require that all volunteersattend the Wine Country FestivalVolunteer Training Meeting whichis scheduled for Thursday, April 21stat 6:00 p.m. Those helping out at theevent, will be given a complementarycommemorative 2011 Wine CountryFestival wine glass and be invitedto our Volunteer Appreciation eventlater in the year.Download a volunteer agreementform at www.livermoredowntown.com. Forms must be returned no laterthan Monday, April 18th, 2011. Forinformation, call 373-1795.Nature ProgramThe Little Things is the themeof the Sun., Feb. 6 Livermore AreaRecreation and Park District rangerprogram.Meet Ranger Amy Wolitzer at 2p.m. at the Wetmore Road entranceto Sycamore Grove Park.When walking in the park peopleusually pay attention to big things liketrees, hills, mammals and birds, butmay not stop to look closely at thelittle things that are so important in theecosystem. Armed with magnifyingglasses, participants in this programwill take a short walk with lots ofstops. Good for all ages; dogs arewelcome. Canceled if raining.There is a $5 per vehicle parkingfee. A $2 donation is requested to helpsupport the programs. Participantsmay call 925-960-2400 for moreinformation.Free Ride Period ExtendedThe Livermore Amador ValleyTransit Authority (LAVTA)has extended its free trial periodon the Rapid (bus rapid transit).It now runs through February 11,2011. The three-week long freeride promotion was establishedto gain new riders and encouragecurrent Wheels riders to try thenew service. The Rapid connectspassengers to places such as theStoneridge Mall, BART, theLawrence Livermore and SandiaNational Laboratories and pointsin between.The new, faster service featuresfewer stops and more frequentservice than traditionalroutes and uses advanced technologyto provide speedier tripsthrough the 14-mile corridor.Major features include:• Rapid buses arriving every10 minutes during the busy morningand afternoon commute timesto maximize convenience• Transit signal priority whichallows buses to get through trafficsignals faster• New, modern bus shelterswith electronic signs that tellriders when the next bus will bearrivingThe Rapid buses and bus stopsare identified by a distinctivedesign and logo. In addition toimproved service and comfort,the Rapid reduces the impact onthe environment by decreasinggreenhouse gas emissions andfuel consumption through the useof clean hybrid electric buses.“I encourage residents to takeScouting DinnerThe San Francisco Bay AreaCouncil will host its InauguralFriends of Scouting Kick-Off Dinnerat the Oakland Marriott on Thursday,February 17, 2011. The Dinner willfeature two speakers: James D. “Jim”Rogers, CEO of KOA Kampgroundsof America, Eagle Scout and lifelongsupporter of Scouting and FormerNBA All Star, Two-Time DefensivePlayer of the Year and Eagle Scout,Mark Eaton. In addition to the speakersthe program will feature 2001-2002 Rotary International PresidentRichard King as emcee.One of the purposes of the inauguralFOS Kick-off Dinner event,in addition to hearing from greatspeakers and telling the Scoutingstory is to raise some significantdollars for Scouting. All the dollarsraised on February 17th will assistthe Boy Scout Council in its effortsto serve almost 20,000 youth duringthe year, of whom, many hundredsare deemed to be “at-risk." The dinnerhas been completely underwrittenwhich allows 100% of the moneydonated that night to go directly tobenefitting our children and investingin their future.For more information, including,renewing an exiting pledge, makingnew donation or to join us for awonderful evening please contact:Development Director Scott Evansat 510-577-9454 or email at scott.evans@scouting.orgadvantage of the free fares togive the new Rapid service a try.I believe they will find it a fastand convenient alternative tothe stress and expense of drivinga car with eco-friendly benefits,and will consider using it moreoften after the trial period ends,”said Scott Haggerty, AlamedaCounty Supervisor and LAVTAchair.For more information aboutthe Rapid, visit www.trivalleyrapid.comor call (925) 455-7555.A portion of the funding forthe Rapid free trial ride promotionis sponsored by 511.org. 511is a free phone and web servicethat provides Bay Area transportationinformation.Reflections on Your Future Aimed at 7thAnd 8th Grade Girls and Their ParentsSeventh and Eighth gradegirls and their parents are invitedto the 7 th annual Reflections onYour Future event to be heldat Granada High School in theStudent Union, 400 Wall Street,Livermore, on February 24, 2011from 7:00pm to 8:30pm.Sponsored by the Tri-ValleyRegional Occupational Programand the Dublin, Pleasanton andLivermore school districts, Reflectionson Your Future is anintroduction to the GetSet (GirlsExploring Technology, Scienceand Engineering Together) programoffered to high school girlsin the three districts. GetSet isan extra-curricular enrichmentprogram designed to encouragegirls to pursue their interests inTechnology, Science, Math andEngineering.Reflections on Your Futurewill showcase a preview of theGetSet program and then, usingthe GetSet model, offer hands-onworkshops. Students may chooseto attend one of three workshops:Food Science: Fat Facts, Chemistry:Heat and Light, Hands-OnRobotics: Basic robotics skills.Parents are welcome to stay for apresentation on “How to PrepareYour Child For Success In HighSchool.” Advanced registrationwith choice of workshop (pleaserank choices 1-3) by February 17is required.For additional informationand to register please contactKathy Schults, GetSet Contactand Career Education Specialistat Granada High School, (925)606-4783, or email kschults@lvjusd.k12.ca.usSpeed EnforcementDuring the month of February,the Livermore Police Departmentwill renew our focus on aggressivelyenforcing speeding laws. Police willbe specifically targeting neighborhoods,school zones, and secondarythoroughfares that have experiencedspeed related crashes. he nation.In 2010, speeding was the primarycontributing factor in 29% of theinjury collisions occurring in the Cityof Livermore. A total of 64 injurycollisions occurred on Livermore’sroadways that were directly attributedto the at-fault driver travelingat a speed that was unsafe. Speedhas consistently been determined tohave been the top primary contributingfactor for collisions occurring inLivermore. By reducing instancesof speeding, the goal is to greatlyreduce the likelihood of collisionsoccurring.During this enforcement campaign,officers will be out targetingand ticketing speeding drivers. Ifyou are caught speeding, you will bestopped and ticketed – No excuses.Book EventsTowne Center Books events:Lunch w/cookbook author StephanieO'Dea, Feb. 8 11:30 social 12:00lunch. Stepanie is the author of MakeIt Fast Cook It Slow and More Make ItFast Cook It Slow. $25.00 book andlunch (either book) and $10.00 lunchonly. Reservations required.Read It and Eat with Elena Shapiro,Mon. Feb. 28 11:30 social; 12:00lunch. Elena is the author of 13, RueTherese which will be here at theend of the week. $30.00 lunch andbook; $15.00 book only. Reservationsrequired.Reserve a space at 925-846-8826or orders@townecenterbooks.com.Towne Center Books is located at 555Main St., Pleasanton.Self-Defense SeminarApproximately 50 girls from theGirl Scouts of America participatedin a free self-defense seminar on Sat.,Jan. 29 at United Studios of Self Defensein Livermore. The girls rangedin age from approximately eight to 14,and also included many of the parentsof the girls who chose to benefit fromthe class as well.The two hour course coveredsome of the basic elements of aself-defense situation, includingapproximately 12 scenarios such asdefenses against choke holds, wristgrabs, being pinned against a wall,and other common situations thatthey may be confronted with.This was the fourth such seminarthat United Studios of Self Defensehas hosted in Livermore in the lastyear. Similar events were held atUSSD’s other 11 locations in theBay Area.USSD was chosen by the GirlScouts to host this event due to theirreputation in the martial arts industry.USSD’s instructors are professionallytrained on a weekly basis on how todeal with various situations. TheirThe Give Kids A Smile Event is planned forSaturday, Feb. 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Give Kids a Smile is an eventhosted by volunteer dentists nationwidein conjunction with theAmerican Dental Association.This event is an annual centerpieceto National Children’s DentalHealth Month. It is designedto provide education, screening,treatment and preventative careto children of low-income familieswho do not have access tocare. The event raises awarenessof the epidemic of untreateddental disease occurring here andacross the country.Among those participatingwill be Wanlan Xiao, DDS.According to the Center forDisease Control, nearly 1 in 4children, aged 2 to 11 years old,have untreated cavities in theirinstructors are trained by professionalsin psychiatry, medicine, theFBI, and many other professionalsin various industries. United Studiosof Self Defense is the world’s largestmartial arts organization, with over200 schools nationwide, which iswhat enables them to receive thistype of unique instruction.Paws to Read Registration"Paws to Read, a program wherechildren read to dogs, has begunits new. Paws to Read, a programsponsored by the Livermore PublicLibrary and the Valley HumaneSociety, is based on studies whichshow that reading with trainedtherapy dogs can improve a child’sself-esteem and confidence, as wellas encourage a child to read more.This program has proved to be verypopular, with youngsters perfectingtheir reading skills.The Winter program series willtake place on Wednesday evenings,January 19 through March 9, 2011,with two sessions between 7 and 8p.m. Sessions will be approximately25 minutes long and will be held inthe Livermore Public Library CivicCenter Storytime/Craft Room. Registrationis underway. Children mayregister for up to three sessions duringthe Winter series, as space allows.Drop-ins may be accepted on a firstcome, first served basis. Participatingchildren should not be fearful of dogsor have allergies to pets.For more information or toregister, please call the LivermorePublic Library’s Children’s Desk at925-373-5500, ext. 5504.Disaster AssistanceThe program Aftershock!: TeensPrepare for Disaster Assistance willbe presented from 1:30pm-3:00pm onSaturday, February 26 at the LivermorePublic Library Civic Center,1188 S. Livermore Avenue. Thereis no charge for this event.At Aftershock!, teens will learnfirst aid for earthquake and fire disastersthrough a special AmericanRed Cross training course designedfor teens. Other topics include firstresponse topics and techniques, anda look at teen volunteer opportunitieswith the American Red Cross.This program is part of LivermoreReads Together, a community-widereading program featuring JamesDalessandro’s book, 1906: A Novel,about the San Francisco earthquakeand fire. The community of Livermoreis encouraged to join theirbaby teeth. While poor diet andoral hygiene certainly play a role,cavities are actually caused by adisease called caries, which isfive times more common thanasthma.The event will be open to allkids without dental insurancewho are between the ages of 3 to14 years old. During this event,the child will be screened by adentist, may have his/her teethcleaned, may have fluoride appliedto the teeth, and/or mayhave sealants placed. If there areany dental emergencies, an effortwill be made to treat the emergencyon the day of the event ora referral may be made to a clinicthat can treat the emergency.Due to the need for signedneighbors by participating in theLivermore Reads Together free eventsfor children and adults during themonth of February 2011. Copies ofbooks and event schedules are availableat all Livermore Public Librarylocations. Livermore Reads Togetheris sponsored by The Friends of theLivermore Library. For additionalevents check the library’s website atwww.livermore.lib.ca.us.Valentine CraftsValentine craft sessions will beavailable at the Livermore Library.Create a Valentine craft to give tothat special someone or to decorateyour home. All craft times will beon a drop-in basis and craft assistantswill be on hand to help you at varioustimes throughout the craft time.The Civic Center Library will hostthe program on Wednesday, February9, 12:30-5:30 p.m., located at 1188S. Livermore Avenue.Crafts will be offered at theRincon Branch Library on Friday,February 11, 3 to 5 p.m., located at725 Rincon Avenue, next to the MaeNissen pool.All ages are welcome to thesefree library programs. ContactYouth Services at (925) 373-5504, orRincon at (925) 373-5540, for moreinformation.DUI EnforcementWhether the $5,000 Super Bowlrings eventually go to the PittsburghSteelers or the Green Bay Packers,law enforcement agencies in AlamedaCounty are cracking down on drunkdrivers on Sunday, Feb. 6.Avoid the 21 plans DUI patrolsthroughout the county. “These arespecialized units, dedicated solely tolooking for impaired drivers,” warnedLt. Ava Garavatti of the Livermorepolice, campaign coordinator.“It’s a no-brainer to designatea completely sober person to driveeveryone else home safely from theevent,” she remarked. “It costs nothingand saves lives routinely. Justdo it before you leave for the party,because alcohol tackles everyone’sgood judgment.”Avoid the 21, named for the numberof law enforcement agencies inthe county, will hit the roads againfor St. Patrick’s Day.The California Office of TrafficSafety funds it through the NationalHighway Traffic Safety Administration,which advises motorists to dial911 on their cell phones to reportdangerous drivers.parental permission and otherdocumentation, during the eventonly children who are registeredin advance can be seen. If you orsomeone you know is interestedin participating in this event,please visit our website at www.winning-smiles.com for moreinformation or give us a call at925-373-7311 to schedule forthe event.Christopher P. SeymourWith heavy hearts we announcethe passing of Christo p h e r P.Seymour onJan. 22, 2011.H i s w i f e ,mother, father,siblingsand children,and motherin-lawSonjawere by his side.Chris was a sweet, gentle,kind soul. He touched manyhearts during the forty-sevenyears he was with us. Our loss isheaven’s gain. He is survived byhis wife Jean, his children Amberand Bradley, his much lovedand cared for grandson Vaughn,his parents Charles and GwenSeymour, his siblings JonathanSeymour and Becka Hudsonand countless other relatives andfriends who loved him dearly.Chris adored his family, heloved to cook and nothing madehim happier than to help anotherperson. He took on many newchallenges in a positive way, andwas a wonderful caring father tohis two children and his grandson.Chris’ children loved manythings about their father, but oneof his qualities that really stoodout was his love for people. Christreated everyone with kindnessand love and always felt the goodin everyone.The Memorial Service tocelebrate Chris’ life was heldon Saturday, January 29, 2011at Valley Community Church inPleasanton.Arrangements by CallaghanMortuary.Paula Louise ThompsonPaula Louise Thompsonpassed away on Sunday, January23, 2011, after a valiant battlewith cancer.At her request,nos e r v i c e sw i l l b eheld.She wasa Livermoreresident.P a u l awas bornOctober 10,1954 in Astoria, Oregon to Richardand Sally Thompson.At age two, the family movedto Southern California wherePaula grew up. After graduatingfrom El Modena High School in1973, Paula moved back to Astoriaand spent several years withher loving grandmother, ChristineKauttu. Paula then joinedthe Navy in January 1978. Afterproudly serving in the Navy forten years, she joined the Reservesfor another seven years where shewas called to active duty duringDesert Storm.Paula lived in the state ofWashington up until six years agowhen she moved to Livermore tobe close to family. She enjoyedcooking, word puzzles, road tripsand life in general. She had asense of humor and twinkle in hereyes that caught one by surprise.She will be dearly missed by allthose that came to know her.Paula is survived by her lovingparents Richard and JoanneThompson, twin sister PamelaBurk, sister Claudia Moore,brother David Thompson, andher ever loving dog, Ginger.Douglas Melvin OlsonDouglas Melvin Olson wasborn on Dec. 7, 1955, in Oakland,CA to Melvin and Louise Olson.Doug passed away on Thursday,Jan. 27, 2011 just two weeks afterbeing diagnosed with pancreaticcancer. He was a Livermoreresident.Doug touched many livesthrough his love and compassion.Doug graduated from MarinaHigh School. He took welding atChabot College in Hayward andbegan his career at NUMMI inFremont, Ca in 1985 and workedthere until the plant closed in2010. He loved his job and wasdevastated when the plant shutdown. He worked at Kraft Foodsthru Kelly Services from Oct.,2010 to Jan 13, 2011 when hediagnosed with cancer.Doug loved fishing, camping,boating, hunting and crosswordpuzzles. He loved taking hisfamily on trips. He was a wonderfulhusband and father.He is preceded in death byhis parents. He is survived byhis loving wife Julie, devotedchildren, Doug 17, and Sarah15, both attending Granada HighSchool. stepsons, Marshall andMichael, sisters, Janet Adelsonand Judy Harper, half sister,Kathy Martinez, nieces ReneeSpisak and Stephanie Harper andnephew Brian Harper. He willremain in our hearts forever.Funeral Services were heldon Wed. Feb 2 at Callaghan’sChapel in Livermore. Burial wasat Lawn Crest Memorial Park inRedding, CA.

PAGE 10 - The Independent, FEBRUARY 3, 2011Photo - Doug JorgensenSmith Elementary School in Livermore hosted its third annual Team KC Blood Drive with the RedCross, in support of Team KC and in memory of Korrine Croghan. Korrine battled a rare form ofcancer for 10 months and lost her battle in the Fall of 2008. Without the hundreds of pints of bloodthat she received during that time, Korrine’s fight would have ended much sooner. Team KC isan organization set up by Korrine’s family to support pediatric cancer patients and their families.Korrine was a student at Smith. Noelle Richards is giving blood. Kabir Adejre is the AmericanRed Cross representative.Program on Emergency PreparednessOffered as Past of Livermore ReadsLivermore-Pleasanton EmergencyPreparedness ManagerGenevieve Pastor-Cohen willdiscuss Are You Ready? Howto Survive the Big One. Herpresentation will take place at7pm on Thursday, February 10at the Livermore Public LibraryCivic Center, 1188 S. LivermoreAvenue. There is no charge forthis event.Find out all you need to knowto survive the next Big Quake,and other disasters. GenevievePastor-Cohen will give an overviewof the hazards faced by theLivermore area, emphasizingthe four pillars of preparedness:making a kit and a plan, plus beinginformed and involved.Genevieve Pastor-Cohen isa certified emergency manager,certified business continuityplanner and earned her Masterof Science Degree in EmergencyServices Administration fromthe California State University,Long Beach. She has been inthe comprehensive emergencymanagement industry for 19years, in which she has servedlocal jurisdictions in disaster recoveryand emergency planningand preparedness, since the LomaPrieta Earthquake. Pastor-Cohenjoined the Livermore-PleasantonFire Department in 2008 asthe Emergency PreparednessManager. The position involvestraining and exercising city managementstaff in responding to disasters,facilitating the LivermoreDisaster Council, is the CommunityEmergency ResponseTeam Program Manager, presentsemergency preparedness talksto the community and businessand oversees the Citizen CorpsCouncil and more.This program is part of LivermoreReads Together, a community-widereading programfeaturing James Dalessandro’sbook, 1906: A Novel, about theSan Francisco earthquake andfire. The community of Livermoreis encouraged to join theirneighbors by participating in theLivermore Reads Together freeevents for children and adultsduring the month of February2011. Copies of books and eventschedules are available at allLivermore Public Library locations.Livermore Reads Togetheris sponsored by The Friends ofthe Livermore Library.For additional events checkthe library’s website at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.Special Cultural Packages OfferedThe Livermore Valley PerformingArts Center and localbusinesses have collaboratedto create a new Wine CountryCultural Package encouragingattendees to extend their performingarts experience at theBankhead Theater with fine diningand an overnight stay.Building on the success ofa similar program offered withLVPAC’s annual New Year’sEve celebration, the package fortwo includes tickets for the performance,a three-course meal atUncle Yu’s at the Vineyard acrossfrom the theater (including taxand gratuity), a suite for one night(double occupancy) at the nearbyHawthorn Suites by Wyndham,as well as engraved glasses anda complimentary bottle of winefrom a Livermore Valley winery.Wine Country Cultural Packagesare available for eight of the remainingprograms in the LVPACPresents series this season, whichrange from dance and theater performances,to big band, bluegrassand swing concerts.“We’re pleased to be workingwith local businesses to furtherexpand Livermore’s reputationas a great destination for worldclass entertainment and awardwinning wines,” said NancyMueller, director of marketingfor the Livermore Valley PerformingArts Center. “With theovernight accommodations andother amenities in the package,visitors can easily explore allthat our community has to offerand local residents can have afun getaway without leaving thearea,” she added. Also includedin the package is a wine tastingcard good for complimentary ordiscounted wine tastings at localwineries and a Downtown GuestPass for discounts at participatingbusinesses.Wine Country Cultural Packagefor two is priced at $259. Call925.373.6800 for more informationand availability, or visitwww.livermoreperformingarts.org/package. This all inclusivepackage is offered for eightupcoming performances at theBankhead Theater:• Swing, Swing, Swing – Alively afternoon with the familiarsounds of the Big Band era Sunday,February 13. Lunch at 1:00p.m., Performance at 3:00 p.m.• The Music of Doris Day– Revisit the beloved songs of along and successful career Sunday,February 27. Lunch at 12:00noon, Performance at 2:00 p.m.• Robin and Linda Williams– Masters of bluegrass and contemporaryfolk harmonies Friday,March 4. Dinner at 6:00 p.m.,Performance at 8:00 p.m.• Taylor 2 – The innovativemodern dance of Paul Taylor onan intimate scale Tuesday, March22. Dinner at 5:30 p.m., Performanceat 7:30 p.m.• Pirandello’s “Six Charactersin Search of an Author” AquilaTheatre Company Tuesday,March 29. Dinner at 5:30 p.m.,Performance at 7:30 p.m.• All New Best of Doo Wop– Relive the great times and timelessmusic of the 1950s Saturday,April 9. Dinner at 6:00 p.m.,Performance at 8:00 p.m.• Butch Thompson Trio – Thelittle jazz band with the very bigshow Sunday May 15. Lunchat 12:00 noon, Performance at2:00 p.m.• Halden Wofford and theHi-Beams – Toe-tapping Texashonky tonk and western swingFriday, June 10. Dinner at 6:00p.m., Performance at 8:00 p.m.The Bankhead Theater islocated at 2400 First Street inDowntown Livermore. The ticketoffice is open Tuesday throughSaturday from 12:00 noon to6:00 p.m. To purchase ticketsor for more information, call925-373-6800 or visit www.bankheadtheater.orgRange Improvement CostShare Program AvailableThe Natural Resources ConservationService (NRCS) managesseveral Farm Bill conservationprograms that help interestedranchers address agricultural andnatural resource concerns on theirlands. Participation is voluntaryand confidential, and NRCS is anon-regulatory agency.In 2011, NRCS has setaside special funding to provide75% cost-share for rangelandimprovements. This funding isavailable to ranchers in AlamedaCounty and in those partsof Santa Clara County that draininto the Alameda Creek Watershed(for instance, Mines Road,San Antonio Valley Road, andareas north of Mount Hamilton).The deadline to apply is February22nd.Typical projects include thefollowing:• Water developments (tanks,troughs, pumps)• Ranch cross-fencing• Ranch road improvementsfor low erosion• Repairs of eroding gullies• Planting trees and shrubsfor riparian buffers or wildlifehabitat• A n d m u c h m o r e .F u n d i n g i s l i m i t e d a n dcompetitive. Interested ranchersshould contact NRCS at 925-371-0154 x123 by February 22 ndto apply.LEGAL NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDSwww.independentnews.comLEGAL NOTICESFOR INFORMATIONPLACING LEGALNOTICESCONTACT RICHARD @925 243-8000FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 446474The following person(s) doingbusiness as: Steven DavidGallery, 1467 Portola MeadowsRd., Livermore Ca 94551is hereby registered by thefollowing owner(s):Steven David Mattos, 1467Portola Meadows Rd., LivermoreCa 94551Autumn Williams, 1467 PortolaMeadows Rd., LivermoreCa 94551This business is conductedby:Co-partnersRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business underthe fictitious business nameor names listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Autumn WilliamsThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon January 6, 2011. ExpiresJanuary 6, 2016.The Independent Legal No.2918 Publish January 20, 27,February 3, 10, 2011.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 446063The following person(s) doingbusiness as: Mainland Leis,738 Alexander St., LivermoreCa 94550 is hereby registeredby the following owner(s):Vivian Garcia, 838 MayviewWay, Livermore Ca 94550Victoria Foster, 2484 RobinsonCircle, Livermore Ca94550Shenay Jorgenson, 1081Laguna St., Livermore Ca94550This business is conductedby:a General partnershipRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business underthe fictitious business nameor names listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/: Vivian Garcia, VictoriaFoster, Shenay JorgensonThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon December 21, 2010. ExpiresDecember 21, 2015.The Independent LegalNo.2920 Publish January 20,27, February 3, 10, 2011.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 446872The following person(s) doingbusiness as:Walk On WaterFaith (WOW Faith), 3800Vineyard Ave Apt J, PleasantonCa 94566 is herebyregistered by the followingowner(s):Keely Payne, 3800 VineyardAve Apt J, Pleasanton Ca94566Jacqueline Smith, 644 AmberwoodWay, LivermoreCa 94551This business is conductedby:Co-partnersThe registrant began to transactbusiness under the fictitiousbusiness name (s) listedabove on January 18, 2011Signature of Registrant:/s/:Keely PayneThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon January 18, 2011. ExpiresJanuary 18, 2016.The Independent Legal No.2922. Publish January 27,February 3, 10, 17, 2011.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 446543The following person(s) doingbusiness as:Vincent’s DiamondSawing & Drilling LLC,5015 Pisces Ave., LivermoreCa 94551 is hereby registeredby the following owner(s):Vincent’s Diamond Sawing& Drilling, LLC, 5015 PiscesAve., Livermore Ca 94551This business is conductedby:a Limited liability companyThe registrant began to transactbusiness under the fictitiousbusiness name (s) listedabove on August 3, 2010Signature of Registrant:/s/: Kim A. ValdezThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon January 7, 2011. ExpiresJanuary 7, 2016.The Independent Legal No.2924. Publish February 3, 10,17, 24, 2011FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 447209The following person(s) doingbusiness as: Esteem Productions,327 Jillana Ave., LivermoreCA 94550 is herebyregistered by the followingowner(s):Christina Chan, 327 JillanaAve., Livermore CA 94550Brianna Slaven, 1412 PortolaAve., Spc. 12, Livermore CA94550This business is conductedby: a Joint ventureThe registrant began to transactbusiness under the fictitiousbusiness name (s) listedabove on January 20, 2011Signature of Registrant:/s/: Christina Chan & BriannaSlavenThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon January 25, 2011. ExpiresJanuary 25, 2016.The Independent Legal No.2925. Publish February 3, 10,17, 24, 2011.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 447547The following person(s) doingbusiness as: Kim’s ExcellentCleaning Service, 5015Pisces Ave., Livermore, CA94551 is hereby registered bythe following owner(s):Kim A. Valdez, 5015 PiscesAve., Livermore, CA 94551This business is conductedby:an IndividualRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business underthe fictitious business nameor names listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/:Kim A. ValdezThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon January 31, 2011. ExpiresJanuary 31, 2016.The Independent LegalNo.2928 Publish February3, 10, 17, 24, 2011.FICTITIOUS BUSINESSNAME STATEMENTFILE NO. 447206The following person(s) doingbusiness as:Happy TailsDog Packs, 3037 BadgerDrive, Pleasanton CA 94566is hereby registered by thefollowing owner(s):Janet Vigallon, 3037 BadgerDrive, Pleasanton CA 94566Scott Vigallon, 3037 BadgerDrive, Pleasanton CA 94566This business is conductedby: Husband and WifeRegistrant has not yet begunto transact business underthe fictitious business nameor names listed.Signature of Registrant:/s/: Janet VigallonThis statement was filed withthe County Clerk of Alamedaon January 25, 2011. ExpiresJanuary 25, 2016.The Independent LegalNo.2929 Publish February3, 10, 17, 24, 2011.NOTICE OF PETITIONTOADMINISTER ESTATE OF:WILLIAM M. TRIMBLECase No. VP105466981. To all Heirs, beneficiaries,creditors, contingent creditors,and persons who mayotherwise be interested in thewill or estate, or both, of:WILLIAM M. TRIMBLE2.A PETITION FOR PRO-BATE has been filed by:BARBARA T. CARLINO inthe Superior Court of California,County of AlamedaCounty3 . T H E P E T I T I O N F O RPROBATE requests that:BARBARA T. CARLINO beappointed as personal representativeto administer theestate of the decedent.4.THE PETITION requests thedecedent’s will and codicils, ifany, be admitted to probate.The will and any codicils areavailable for examination inthe file kept by the court.5.THE PETITION requestsauthority be administer theestate under the IndependentAdministration of Estates Act.(This authority will allow thepersonal representative totake many actions withoutobtaining court approval.Before taking certain veryimportant actions, however,the personal representativewill be required to give noticeto interested persons unlessthey have waived notice orconsented to the proposedaction.) The Independentadministration authority will begranted unless an interestedperson files an objection tothe petition and shows goodcause why the court shouldnot grant the authority.6.A HEARING on the petitionwill be held in this courtas follows:Date:February 8, 2011TIME:9:30am DEPT: 201 at:Superior Court of California,County of Alameda2120 Martin Luther King Jr.WayBerkeley, Ca 947047.IF YOU OBJECT to thegranting of the petition, youshould appear at the hearingand state your objections orfile written objections with thecourt before the hearing. Yourappearance may be in personor by your attorney.8.IF YOU ARE A CREDITORor a contingent creditor ofthe decedent, you must fileyour claim with the court andmail a copy to the personalrepresentative appointed bythe court within four monthsfrom the date of first issuanceof letters as provided inProbate Code section 9100.The time for filling claims willnot expire before four monthsfrom the hearing date noticedabove.9.YOU MAY EXAMINE thefile kept by the court. If youare a person interested in theestate, you may file with thecourt a Request for SpecialNotice (Form DE-154) ofthe filing of an inventory andappraisal of estate assets orof any petition or account asprovided in Probate Codesection 1250.A Request for Special Noticeform is available from thecourt clerk.10.Attorney for Petitioner:Heather R. Stoneman, Esq.(SBN 214917)220 Montgomery St., Suite484San Francisco, Ca 94104(415) 394-6800The Independent Legal No.2919 Publish January 20,27, February 3, 2011.NOTICE OF INVITING BIDSNotice is hereby given responseswill be acceptedin the office of the Auditor-Controller Agency, County ofAlameda, 1221 Oak Street,Room 249, Oakland, CA94612 You are invited to submita quote to provide auditservices to the Oakland AlamedaCounty Coliseum Authorityfor the fiscal years endingJune 30, 2011 through 2013in accordance with generallyaccepted auditing standards,and the standards applicableto financial audits containedin Government Auditing Standards.Responses of Quoteare Due by 2:00 p.m. onFebruary 28, 2011 CountyContact: Ken Kerkhoff(510) 272-6565 or via email:jpaaudits@acgov.org2/3/11CNS-2035427#The Independent Legal No.2926. Publish February 3,2011NOTICE OF INVITING BIDSNotice is hereby given thatsealed competitive bids willbe accepted in the office of theGSA-Purchasing Department,County of Alameda, 1401Lakeside Drive, Suite 907,Oakland, CA 94612 NET-WORKING/SOUTH COUNTYBIDDERS CONFERENCERFP #900818 for DisasterResponse Contingency Services,Wednesday, February16, 2011, 2:00 p.m. – CastroValley Library, 3600 NorbridgeAvenue, Chabot Room, CastroValley, CA NETWORK-I N G / N O R T H C O U N T YBIDDERS CONFERENCERFP #900818 for DisasterResponse Contingency Services,Thursday, February 17,2011, 10:00 a.m. – GeneralServices Agency, 1401 LakesideDrive, Conference Room228, 2 nd Floor, Oakland, CAResponses Due by 2:00 pmon March 28, 2011 CountyContact : Jennifer ChanNgo (510) 208-9604 or viaemail: jennifer.ngo@acgov.org Attendance at NetworkingConference is Non-mandatory.Specifications regardingthe above may be obtainedat the Alameda County GSACurrent Contracting OpportunitiesInternet website atwww.acgov.org.2/3/11CNS-2036268#The Independent Legal No.2927. Publish February 3,2011ANIMALS2) CATS/DOGSADOPT A DOG OR CAT, foradoption information contactValley Humane Society at925 426-8656.Adopt a new best friend:TVAR, the Tri-Valley AnimalRescue, offers animals foradoption every Saturday andSunday, excluding most holidays.Saturdays from 9:30am to 1:00 pm, dogs and catsare available at the PleasantonFarmers Market at W.Angela and First Streets.Two locations will showcasecats only: Petsmart in Dublinnoon to 4 and the Pet FoodExpress in Livermore 1 to 4.Sundays, cats are at Petsmartin Dublin 1 to 4, and PetCoin San Ramon 11 to 3. TVARat (925) 803-7043 website atwww.tvar.org4)FOUNDFOUND AN ANIMAL?FREE SECTION. CallRichard925 243-8000 to let 33,000households know!6)LOSTLOST A FAMILY PET? FREESECTION. Call Richard 925243-8000 to let 33,000 householdsknow!AUTOMOTIVE10)AUTOS WANTEDDONATE YOUR CAR: Children’sCancer Fund! HelpSave A Child’s Life ThroughResearch & Support! Free VacationPackage. Fast, Easy &Tax Deductible. Call 1-800-252-0615. (CAL*SCAN)DONATE VEHICLE: RE-CEIVE $1000 Grocery Coupon.Your Choice. Noahs Arc- No Kill Animal Shelters.Advance Veterinary Treatments.Free Towing, IRS TaxDeductible, Non-Runners. 1-866-912-GIVE. (CAL*SCAN)D O N A T E Y O U R C A R ,TRUCK OR BOAT TO HERI-TAGE FOR THE BLIND.Free 3 Day Vacation, TaxD e d u c t i b l e , F r e e T o w -ing, All Paperwork TakenCare Of. 888-902-6851.(CAL*SCAN)

LEGAL NOTICES/CLASSIFIEDSwww.independentnews.comThe Independent, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 - PAGE 11SELL YOUR USED CARHERE. Call Richard at925-243-8000 or go to www.independentnews.comPay by Credit Card for anyClassified or Display ad.EMPLOYMENT56) ADULT CARECAREGIVERSNEEDED for elder care.Light housekeeping errandstransportation mealprep personal care. Pleasefax resume925 371-811860) BUSINESS OPPORTUNITYBE WARY of out of areacompanies. Check with thelocal Better Business Bureaubefore you send any moneyor fees. Read and understandany contracts before you sign.Shop around for rates.A L L C A S H V E N D I N GROUTE! Be Your Own Boss!25 Machines + Candy All for$9995. Vend3, 800 GrandBlvd., Deer Park, NY. 1-877-915-8222. Major CCaccepted! (CAL*SCAN)71) HELP WANTEDINDEPENDENTCONTRACTORS WANTEDfor Senior Home HealthCare Must HaveExperienceSenior Solutions, Inc.925 443-3101ABLE TO TRAVEL. Hiring8 people. No experiencenecessary. Transportation& lodging furnished. Paidtraining. Work and travelentire USA. Start today. www.ProtekChemical.com 1-208-590-0365. (CAL*SCAN)ATTN: COMPUTER WORK.Work from anywhere 24/7. Upto $1,500 Part Time to $7,500/mo.. Full Time. Training provided.www.KTPGlobal.com or call 1-888-304-2847.(CAL*SCAN)MEDICAL ASSISTANT.Learn on the job. Good pay/benefits, 30 days vacation/yr,$ for school. No experienceOK. HS grads ages 17-34.Call Mon-Fri 1-800-345-6289.(CAL*SCAN)TO PLACE A CLASSIFIEDADcall Richard 925 243-8000or go on-line atwww.independentnews.com Pay by Credit Card forClassified and Display Ads.72) HELP WANTED/DRIVERSCompany Drivers (Solos& Hazmat Teams) *GREATPAY * GREAT MILES * CDL-A Required. We also havededicated & regional positionsavailable. Call 866-789-8947.Swift (CAL*SCAN)17 DRIVERS NEEDED! Top5% Pay! Excellent Benefits.New Trucks Ordered! NeedCDL-A & 3 months recentOTR. 1-877-258-8782. www.MeltonTruck.com (Cal-SCAN)Company Drivers (Solos& Hazmat Teams) *GREATPAY *GREAT MILES *CDL-A Required. We also havededicated & regional positionsavailable. Call: 866-448-1055SWIFT. (CAL*SCAN)CLASSIFIEDS**************Reaches33,000 HomesDirect mailtoLivermore, Dublin,Pleasanton & SunolCall Richard925 243-8000MERCHANDISE115)ESTATE/GARAGE/YARD SALESRAIN OR SHINE!Call Richard925-243-8000 or go to www.independentnews.com before8am Tuesdays to get yourad in for the next edition.ESTATE SALE1308 Hillcrest Ave in Livermoreoff East Avenue.Friday-Saturday, 9-3 pm.Ben Aiken, Local Artist,Paintings, Sculptures,Mid-Century Furniture,Collectible Glassware, andmuch more.118) FREE/GIVEAWAYGOT OLD JUNKFREE/GIVEAWAYSECTIONCall 925 243-8000 Richard125)HOUSEHOLD GOODSPlace your household itemshere for sale. Call Richard925 243-8000 or go on-lineat www.independentnews.com Pay by Credit Card forClassified and Display Ads.127) LOST/FOUNDLOST or FOUND AN ITEMFREE SECTIONCall Richard 925 243-8000130)MISC. FOR SALESHARI’S BERRIES - Mouthwateringgourmet strawberrygifts fresh for your Valentine!100% satisfaction guaranteed.Delivered nationwide.SAVE 20% on Dipped Berries!Visit www.berries.com/berries or Call 1-888-903-2988. (CAL*SCAN)VONAGE Unlimited Calls inU.S. & 60 Countries! NO AN-NUAL CONTRACT! $14.99For 3 Months! Then ONLY$25.99/mo. Plus FREE Activation.Call 877-881-2318.(CAL*SCAN)135)PRINTERS/MISC1 Used Epson FX-1170Wide-Carriage Printer inWorking Condition$50 OBO6 Ribbons $12Two Mobile 4-Level PrinterStands. $25 ea. OBO3/4 Box 3 Across Labels$20 OBOPAPER1 Small 8 1/2 x 3 1/2 7000ctsz 1 $151 1/2 Box 9 1/2 x 11 2300ct$201 Box 14 7/8 x 11 $30Call Richard925 447-8700140)WANTED TO BUYWANTED DIABETIC TESTSTRIPS. Cash Paid. Unopened,Unexpired BoxesOnly. All Brands Considered.Help others, don’t throwboxes away. For more information,Call 888,491-1168.(CAL*SCAN)NOTICES/ANNOUNCEMENTS155)NOTICES“NOTICE TO READERS:California law requires thatcontractors taking 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.govor 800-321-CSLB (2752).Unlicensed persons takingjobs less than $500 muststate in their advertisementsthat they are not licensed bythe Contractors State LicenseBoard.”REAL ESTATEThe Federal Fair Housing Act,Title VII of the Civil RightsAct of 1964, and state lawprohibit advertisements forhousing and employmentthat contain any preference,limitation or discriminationbased on protected classes,including race, color, religion,sex, handicap, familial statusor national origin. IVPC doesnot knowingly accept anyadvertisements that are inviolation of the law.157)APT/DUPLEX/HOUSE/RENTALSGOT A HOUSE FOR RENT?Let the 33,000 households/businesses that receive TheIndependent know about it.To place an ad go to www.independentnews.comor callRichard at 925 243-8000160)BOAT/RV and RETAILLOOKING FOR RETAILORSTORAGE SPACE?Great Location Off Hwy 580On Kitty Hawk RoadFor Details Email:Pmatharu@lagmail.net162)HOMES FOR SALEBy advertising with The Independentyou reach over33,000 homes and businesseswith your message.To place an ad, call Richard925 243-8000165) HOUSE/ROOMS/RENT-ALS TO SHARERENT YOUR EMPTY LIV-ING SPACE Advertise withThe Independent rand reachover 33,000 homes and businesseswith your message.To place an ad, call Richard925 243-8000172)LOTS & ACREAGE/OUTOF STATEBy advertising with The Independentyou can reachover 33,000 homes and businesseswith your message.To place an ad, call Richard925 243-8000EVERYTHING MUST GO!$1,000 an acre. Priced lessthan the developer paid. 90minutes north of Phoenix. 36acres with electric, reducedto $36,000. Private peacefulsetting, breathtaking mountainviews, abundant wildlife.Financing available. SaddleCreek Ranch by AZLR. 1-888-690-8271. (CAL*SCAN)RUIDOSO, NEW MEXICOAREA - 5 acres w/city waterand city maintained roadsnear small fishing pond andgolf course. Only $19,900.Financing avail. Call NMRS 1-888-791-6136. (Cal-SCAN)SERVICES177)BUSINESS SERVICESADVERTISING-BEST KEPTSECRET. A business cardsized display ad.140 California communitynewspapers.Reach 3 million+ Californians.Cost$1,550. $1.33cost per thousand. Freebrochure(916)288-6019;www.Cal-SDAN.com(CAL*SCAN)180)HEALTH/MISCHIP REPLACEMENT SUR-GERY: If you had hip replacementsurgery between2005 -present and sufferedproblems requiring a secondrevision surgery you may beentitled to compensation.Attorney Charles Johnson 1-800-535-5727. (Cal-SCAN)185)SCHOOLS/EDUCATIONHIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA!Graduate in 4 weeks! FREEBrochure. Call Now! 1-866-562-3650 ext. 60 www.S o u t h E a s t e r n H S . c o m(CAL*SCAN)ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINEfrom Home. *Medical, *Business,*Paralegal, *CriminalJustice. Job placement assistance.Computer available.Financial Aid if qualified.SCHEV certified. Call888-210-5162 www.Centura.us.com (CAL*SCAN)1 9 0 ) T I M E S H A R E S / R E -SORTSSELL/RENT Your TIME-SHARE for CASH!!! OurGuaranteed Services will Sell/Rent Your Unused Timesharefor CASH! Over $95 MillionDollars offered in 2010! www.SellaTimeshare.com (877)554-2098 (CAL*SCAN)What Can You BuyFor $800,000?By Cher WollardJumbo and super-jumbo mortgages – the kind needed for purchasinghigher priced homes – are available again, and at reasonableinterest rates.A couple of years ago, jumbo financing was just about extinct.But lenders are slowly moving back into that market, althoughguidelines are tougher. Borrowers must have secure sources ofincome, excellent credit and large down payments.Jumbo mortgages are loans made for more than the “conforming”limit. In most parts of the country, that limit is $417,000. FortunatelyCongress recognizes that regions such as the Bay Area have higherhousing prices, so raised the ceiling for certain high-cost areas.In Alameda County, where “conforming” means up to $729,750,jumbo loans are for any amount over that. Given that borrowersmust bring large down payments to get these loans – usually 20-30percent, but sometimes as low as 10 percent – the minimum salesprice would be $800,000-$900,000.While conforming mortgage rates currently are at or below the 5percent mark, jumbo rates are about 1 point higher. Still, 6 percentfor a jumbo rate mortgage is historically low, meaning paymentswill be lower and more buyers can qualify.So what can you purchase in the Tri-Valley in that price range?Quite a lot, as it turns out.Some of the real estate deals at the upper end are distress sales,just like at other price points. But that is certainly not so in allcases. Prices have fallen in recent years, but buyers in the upperprice brackets tend to have larger down payments, so even if theylose equity, they are less likely to be “short.” And that’s good newsfor buyers.L i v e r m o r eHomes in the $800,000s in this city tend to be big and beautiful.Of the 13 properties in this range available early this week, mostare newer construction in South Livermore. Typical is a 3500-sq.-ft.home on 12,000 sq.ft. in the Vinsanto development off of ConcannonRoad. Built in 2002, this home boasts cherry wood floors, luxefinishes and a mini-vineyard for $859,000.However, there are also custom homes, such as the 4-bedroom,3-bath home on one-third acre on Frederick Michael for only$899,000. This house features a large master retreat with fireplace,glass-block shower and walk-in closet.A few similar homes can be found in North Livermore, such asa brand-new 3377-sq.-ft. two-story on Orchid Place that the builderhas reduced $75,000 to $849,000. This property includes a secondmaster ideal for in-laws or au pairs.Downtown you’ll find a charmingly updated Victorian withperiod moldings and finishes. This four-bedroom home on a biglot is priced at $899,000.If that’s not your style, you might like the geodesic dome onfive acres on Dyer Road, also $899,000. Or the great potential oftwo adjoining lots and a small mid-century home on Bess Road,priced at $889,500.This price range includes a few bank-owned properties. Takea look at the 5-bedroom, 5-bath Prima home that sold in 2007 for$1.25 million and is now priced at $829,000.PleasantonSeven homes in Pleasanton fit this price point. They are:• A 2500-sq.-ft. house on a large lot in Pleasanton Heights at$815,000• A brand-new 2900-sq.-ft. home in Ponderosa Village at Ironwoodwith solar paneling and a tankless water heater for the sameprice• A beautifully landscaped home in Kottinger Heights for $5,000more• A two-story Birdland home for $854,000• A single-story in Golden Eagle• A lender-approved short sale in Ponderosa, with a pool andspa, priced at $885,000• A contractor’s special in Downtown Pleasanton. There is currentlya 910 sq.ft. cottage on the property, but architectural drawingsare available for six live/work units.DublinIn Dublin, this price point offers six large homes, all newer construction,most in Dublin Ranch, mostly on small lots.They range from a brand new 3030-sq.-ft. Toll Brothers home inDublin Ranch with just a bit of a yard for $827,585 to a 6-bedroombank-owned property with more than 3800-sq.ft. that needs repairsfor $829,900.Others include:• A home built in 2008 with four bedrooms and den on a largelot priced at $859,900• A 3100-sq.-ft. potential short sale priced at $805,000• A brand-new home in Maranello with a first-floor guest suitefor $810,798• A 4-bedroom Dublin Ranch home with great views priced at$895,000.Of course, there are plenty of other homes for more than $900,000,that jumbo financing would allow the right buyer to purchase.If one of these homes – or any other – is in your future, contactyour Realtor today, while prices and interest rates remain low.HUD Extends Anti-Flipping WaiverThe Federal Housing Administration this week extended thewaiver on anti-flipping rules until January 2012.The Department of Housing and Urban Development previouslyprohibited FHA from insuring mortgages on homes that were ownedby the seller for less than 90 days. This rule was designed to discouragethe “flipping” of properties, in which speculators would purchaseproperties and then quickly resell them at higher prices.With home sales depressed in much of the country, the governmentlast year issued a one-year waiver of the rule so as not todiscourage the resale of foreclosed homes. That waiver has beenextended another year.“As I noted when we first announced this policy change early lastyear, because of the tightened credit market, FHA-insured mortgagefinancing is often the only means of financing available to potentialhomebuyers,” said FHA Commissioner David H. Stevens.”Today I can report that this policy change has been effective.Since the original waiver went into effect on last February, FHAhas insured more than 21,000 mortgages worth over $3.6 billion onproperties resold within 90 days of acquisition.”To protect borrowers against predatory practices, certain limitationsapply:• All transactions must be arms-length, meaning the buyer, sellerand agents must not be related.• The property must not be the subject of previous flipping.• If the sales price of the property is 20 percent or more abovethe seller’s cost of acquiring it, the lender must meet certain controlledconditions.• The waiver does not apply to the Home Equity ConversionMortgage (HECM) for Purchase program.Cher Wollard is a Realtor withPrudential California Realty, Livermore.

PAGE 12 - The Independent, FEBRUARY 3, 2011Dancers, Singers, Musicians, Comedians, and More VieFor a Spot in Livermore’s 2011 Talent Competitionjazz singer, an Indian classicaldancer, a ragtime pianist, and acomedian.“All types of performers arehere today and they are all so talented,”said Larson. “I’ve neverjudged the semi-finals, only thefinals, so it’s going to be toughto narrow this down to 12 or sofinalists.”Each of the judges has aperforming arts background.Dunlop is a vocal instructor,Larson is a film producer, andRadayeva is a music studioowner and piano instructor. Thejudges for the final competitionon Feb. 26 are Ronald Graham,owner of Graham Piano Studio;Robert Lappa, choral director atLas Positas College; and CindyBrowne Rosefield, director ofinstrumental music and performingarts coordinator at Las PositasCollege.Now in its third year, theLivermore’s 2011 Talent Competitionis organized by the LivermoreRotary Club and the RotaryClub of the Livermore Valley as afund-raiser for community grantprograms. This year, over 125people send in audition videosfrom as far away as Georgia, NewYork, New Jersey, Pennsylvania,Texas, and Nevada. Most of thesemi-finalists are from the BayArea.The finalists will be announcedon the Livermore’s 2011 TalentCompetition website by theend of this week at www.livermorestalentcompetition.com.In addition to the two $2,500awards, the audience will choosean “Oscar Winner” by text votingat the final competition.Livermore’s 2011 Talent Competitionwill take place on Saturday,Feb. 26 at 7 pm at theBankhead Theater. Tickets are$29-49 and are available at theBankhead Theater Box Office.For information or tickets go towww.livermoreperformingarts.org, call 925.373.6100, or thebox office at 2400 First Street inLivermore.Photo - Doug JorgensenRyan Flynn, a Flamenco guitarist from Dublin, competed in thesemifinals.By Patricia KoningForget American Idol’s HollywoodWeek—the real talent wasat the Livermore High SchoolTheater on Saturday, Jan. 29 asover 50 semi-finalists competedto earn a spot in Livermore’s2011 Talent Competition on Feb.26. Two winners of that contest,one in the 18 and over categoryand the other in the 17 and undercategory, will take home $2,500in prize money.From morning until late afternoon,judges Sally Dunlop, AllenLarson, and Rimma Radayevaviewed a steady stream of talent.Among the competitors werepianists, violinists, a trombonequartet, a pair of sisters playingthe guzheng, vocalists, apoetry recitation, a tap dancer,opera singers, an Irish dancer, aMusical ComedyCloses This WeekendThis is the last weekend tocatch “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels”at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore.The musical production,staged by the Tri-Valley RepertoryTheatre, has drawn ravereviews from critics.The Mercury News noted,“Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is amusical with its heart in the rightplace. It’s a fairly new (2005)show based on the wildly popularSteve Martin-Michael Caine filmcomedy that, for a brief time, setthe French Riviera up as the funniestplace on earth. The musicalretains the humor of the originalin an entertaining productionstaged by the Tri-Valley RepertoryCompany, which turns theshow, delightfully, into as mucha musical farce as a musicalcomedy.”The Independent reviewerwrote, “With witty lyrics, inspiredsinging, splendid dancingand acting, and a delightfully unlikelystory, Dirty Rotten Scoundrelsgives everybody what theydeserve.”Allnewsnoblues.com, proclaims,“Well- known and respectedlocal performer and director,John Maio, has once againput together a talented ensemblewith results that are pleasing tothe ear and to the funny bone.”Its the story of two very funnycon men who try to out-con eachother. When it becomes apparentthat the Riviera isn’t big enoughfor the both of them, they makea winner-take-all wager over thefortunes of a naïve Americansoap heiress: the first one to“clean her out” can make theother clear out and keep the Rivieraand its unsuspecting touriststo himself.Final performances are 8 p.m.Feb. 4 and 5 and 2 p.m. Feb. 6 atthe Bankhead Theater, 2400 FirstSt., Livermore.Tickets can be purchased atwww.livermoreperformingarts.org, 373-6800, or at the BankheadTheater box office.

THE INDEPENDENT • SECTION IIArt, Community, & EducationTHURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011Valentine’s Day'Girlfriends Gala'Revue & ChampagneReception SetPeter Fletcherrary women.The gala event planned forMonday, February 14 at 7:30 p.m.includes a complimentary “ThreeCs” reception – Champagne,Chocolate and Confections servedin the theater lobby immediatelyfollowing the performance.Described as “traveling OprahWinfrey’s” by the Boston Globe,the Four Bitchin Babes got theirstart in 1990 as a touring band ofmusicians. The four formed animmediate connection, not justas musicians, but as true friends.Their priceless ability to see thehumor in the most mundane ofsituations found its way into theirWith the hilarious comedy andheartfelt music of the Four Bitchin'Babes, the Livermore Valley PerformingArts Center presents aValentine’s Day 2011 “GirlfriendsGala” at the Bankhead Theater.The four multi-talented singersongwritersof the Four BitchinBabes bring their own brand ofrollicking humor into “HormonalImbalance: A Mood SwingingMusical Revue.” All the joys anddilemmas of everyday life – fromthe challenges of balancing careerand family, to chocolate obsessionsand inadequately cut swimwear– find their place in this celebrationof the complex lives of contempomusic,and transformed the group’sact into an outrageously funny andinsightful commentary on the upsand downs of daily life. Over theyears, the group has evolved and,Classical Guitarist to Perform at FirehouseAward-winning Classical GuitaristPeter Fletcher perform atPleasanton’s Firehouse Arts Centeron February 20.The 3:00 p.m. matinee will takeplace at the the Arts Center at 4444Railroad Avenue in downtownPleasanton.The concert, a San FranciscoThe Amador Friends of Musicwill present the 36th annual CampanaJazz Festival at Amador ValleyHigh School, 1155 Santa RitaRoad in Pleasanton, California onSaturday, February 12, 2011 from8:00am-7:00pm.The day long festival will feature51 ensembles from 24 BayArea schools, including San Jose,Fremont, Pleasanton, Dublin, SanRamon, Danville, Walnut Creek,San Jose, Brentwood, Concord,El Cerrito, Berkeley, Folsom, SanMateo, Palo Alto and Cupertino.There will be four venues and sixin addition to original memberSally Fingerett, now includes DebiSmith, Nancy Moran, and DeirdreFlint. Each brings their exceptionaltalent as singers, songwriters andBay Area stop on Fletcher’s 2011national tour, will feature selectionsfrom Fletcher’s 2008 CDrelease, Music of the Baroque.Other repertoire will includeJesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring fromCantata No. 147; Chaconne in Dminor by J. S. Bach; Usher-Waltz,an unusual and intense piece byCampana Jazz Festivala Day Long Eventmusicians, as well as a naturalgift for comedy, to sold-out showsacross North America. With 20years and eight albums behind(continued on page 2)Russian guitarist and composerNikita Koshkin; two works fromMaurice Ravel’s Mother GooseSuite, and the music of Dowland,Albeniz, Villa-Lobos Ponce, Reusner,and Grieg.The program will culminatewith Koyunbaba, by composer/(continued on page 6)divisions, including High SchoolBig Bands (AA, A, B) and MiddleSchool Big Bands. This year willalso feature expanded high schoolcombo and vocal divisions. Twoawards concerts, at 3:15 and5:00pm will feature the winningbands, choirs, and PUSD jazzbands.Outstanding musicians will beawarded over $15000 in summercamp music scholarships, and two$1000 college scholarships willbe presented to study music at CalState East Bay.Named in honor of Jim Campana,AVHS Music Director from1959 through 1979, the CampanaJazz Festival is one of the highlightsof the Pleasanton UnifiedSchool District’s musical year. Mr.and Mrs. Jim Campana are planningto attend. Admission is $10,$8 for seniors and students, andfree for those five and under.Amador Friends of Music(AFM), is a non-profit 501(C)(3)organization which provides organization,fund-raising, and volunteersupport to the music program.For more information, go to amadormusic.org.

2 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 Art & EntertainmentFrisky FrolicsPerform Songs ofTin Pan AlleyThe Frisky Frolics will performclassic songs from the heyday ofTin Pan Alley at 2pm on Sunday,February 13 at the LivermorePublic Library Civic Center, 1188S. Livermore Avenue. There is nocharge for this event.In today’s music industry whereOctober’s hot property is November’shas-been, the fear of obsolescenceexerts a powerful influenceon many performers, unless, ofcourse, you’re the Frisky Frolics.With a ukulele-driven program ofsuch Tin Pan Alley-era classics as“Cake Eatin’ Man” and “My CanaryHas Circles Under His Eyes,”the quintet revels in the outdated,dusty gems from our grandparents’78 rpm record collections.In the hands of Rick “TheDimestore Dandy” Quisol (ukulele,vocals, kan-zoo), YanosLustig (sax, piano), Craig Ventresco(lead guitar) and Chris“TeeGee” Green (acoustic bass,backing vocals), the Jazz Age dittiesshimmer and sway, ticklingthe funny bone while soothing thesoul. The group’s shows are aboutfar more than music, as a growingnumber of Frisky Frolics fans cantell you. Performances includevintage clothing and props thatfurther enhance the magic of thelong-lost musical treasures. TheFrisky Frolics offer a unique opportunityto travel back in time toan era when the harsh realities ofthe Depression were temporarilysoftened by snappy tunes, drolllyrics, and the occasional ferociouskazoo solo.This program is part of LivermoreReads Together, a community-widereading programfeaturing James Dalessandro’sbook, 1906: A Novel, about theSan Francisco earthquake andfire. Livermore Reads Together issponsored by The Friends of theLivermore Library.For additional events check thelibrary’s website at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.BABES(continued from front page)them, the four “Fabulously FunnyFemale Folkestra” are deliveringon their vow to age gracefully, ifnot exactly quietly, in their wildlysuccessful show “Hormonal Imbalance.”Women of all ages aregathering girlfriends from theirbook clubs, singles groups, bowlingleagues, and neighborhoodsto attend an estrogen-fueled showthat delivers “HOT” music andplenty of laughter with an upfront,unbeatable attitude.Tickets for the “GirlfriendsGala” with the Four Bitchin Babesat the Bankhead Theater on Monday,February 14, 2011 are $57each, and include the complimentary“Three Cs” post-performancereception in the theater lobby.The “Girlfriends Gala” is partof the Livermore Valley PerformingArts Center’s “LVPAC Presents”series, which sponsors eventsfeaturing acclaimed performers inmusic, dance and other performingarts across a wide range of musicalstyles and genres. Next in the seriesis a delightful afternoon concert,The Music of Doris Day, featuringthe Jim Martinez Trio and vocalistLaura Didier. Day’s best-knownand most beloved songs, as wellas entertaining stories and recollectionsof her long and successfulcareer, will be showcased in oneshow only on Sunday, February27, 2011 at 2:00 p.m.The Bankhead Theater is locatedat 2400 First Street in DowntownLivermore. The ticket officeis open Tuesday-Saturday from12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. On performancedays the ticket office remainsopen through intermission.To purchase tickets or for moreinformation, call 925-373-6800 orvisit www.bankheadtheater.orgVienna Boys Choir Makes Stop in LivermoreThe Vienna Boys Choir, willperform at Livermore’s BankheadTheater on Friday, February 11,2011 for one performance onlyat 8:00pm. Their repertoire includeseverything from classicalmasterpieces, beloved pop songsand holiday favorites to medievalchant, Austrian folk songs, andwaltzes and polkas by Strauss,Lanner, and Lehar.Since the early 15th century,boys had been singing at the courtof the Holy Roman Emperor. Thatchanged in 1498, when EmperorMaximilian I moved his court andhis court musicians to Vienna,Austria. Six singing boys wereamong the musicians, marking thefounding of Vienna Hofmusikkapelle,later known as Vienna BoysChoir. Until 1918, the choir sangexclusively for the imperial court,at religious services, at privateThe sixth Early Music ConcertSeries season opens on February12, 2011 with the return of theFarallon Recorder Quartet in aconcert of music from NorthernEurope.Theme of this year’s series isThe Splendor of Music. Performancesare at Las Positas College.Farallon takes its name fromthe ancient Farallon Islands off thecoast of California. Inspired by theislands, Farallon’s performance ofancient music is described as bothunique and compelling, each piecesculpted to capture the hauntingmelodies and harmonies of medievaland renaissance music.The audience will hear a myriadof recorders in many sizes, shapes,and pitches from medieval andrenaissance to baroque, and theywill hear music from medievalEngland through RenaissanceGermany, from the Low Countriesto the courts of Versailles, and toLiepzig and the Thomaskirche,featuring music of Dowland, Byrd,Dornel, and Bach and from theGerman Lochamer and GlogauerLieder books.Kevin Fryer, master harpsichordbuilder, will share information,ideas, and resources toadvance understanding and deepenaudience appreciation of EarlyMusic and especially to introduceThe Farallon Recorder Quartet andtheir program.The concerts will be held in thenew Barbara Mertes Center for theconcerts and functions, and onstate occasions. In 1918, after thebreakdown of the Habsburg Empire,the Austrian government tookover the court opera, its orchestra,and the adult singers, but not theEarly Music ConcertSeries Opens SeasonFarallon RecorderQuartetArts, Building 4000. Free parkingis available in Lots AA, A, and B.Enter the college from the CollierCanyon entrance. For a map of thecampus and further informationabout the concert season, visittwww.lpcearlymusic.org.The pre-concert talk is at 7:30p.m. followed by the concert at 8p.m. Tickets are $15 general admission,students $5. Tickets areavailable at the door, through theLPC website or at Brown PaperTickets.boys’ choir. Josef Schnitt, who becameDean of the Imperial Chapelin 1921, established the boys’ choiras a private institution.The EVienna Boys Choir continuesto be in demand for concertUpcoming concerts are:March 12: The Lure of Londonfeaturing Jay White, counter tenor,and Yuko Tanaka, harpsichord.April 2: The Enticement ofItaly by Archetti Baroque Strings;Archetti will perform Italian Concertifor multiple violins, includingconcerti grossi by Corelli andVivaldi.The Early Music Concert Seriesis underwritten by a grant from theLas Positas College Foundation.performances worldwide. Todaythere are around 100 choristers betweenthe ages of ten and fourteen,divided into four touring choirs.The four choirs give approximately300 concerts and performanceseach year before enthusiasticcrowds.Audiences in the Tri-Valleywill have the opportunity to hearthe Vienna Boys Choir for the firsttime locally when they come to theBankhead Theater in Livermore,for one performance only on Friday,February 11, 2011 at 8:00pm.Tickets are $39 to $62 and $12 forstudents.The Bankhead Theater is locatedat 2400 First Street in DowntownLivermore. The ticket officeis open Tuesday-Saturday from12:00 noon to 6:00 p.m. To purchasetickets call 925-373-6800 orvisit www.bankheadtheater.org.

Art & EntertainmentPacific Chamber Symphonybegins the new year on Fri., February25 with a concert featuring thePied Piper of Hollywood, flutistSheridon Stokes.The 8 p.m. performance willbe held at the Bankhead TheaterJanet KetchumPacific Chamber SymphonyFeatures the Flutein Livermore.A highlight of the program willbe the world premiere of a workby contemporary composer ChristopherCaliendo; “World MusicSerenade No. 1 for flute, harp percussionand strings.” (PCS thanksSusan DuPree and Hollis Bascombfor sponsoring this work).The works for flute will bebracketed by the tender “Adagiatto”from Mahler’s Symphony#5, and Tchaikovsky’s popular“Serenade for Strings” (sometimesknown as “The Other Nutcracker”).Sheridon Stokes is the “go toguy” when a film or televisionscore requires a flute solo. Hehas been featured in many televisionand film scores, includingthe television series “MissionImpossible,” “Roots,” and “KungFu,” as well as the films “Jaws,”“E.T.,” “Ghost,” “Glory,” “PatriotGames,” “Sneakers,” “Scent of aWoman,” “The Hand That Rocksthe Cradle,” and more recently,“Mission Impossible,” “Waterworld,”“Jumanji,” “IndependenceDay,” “Spitfire Grill,” “RushHour II”, and “Bringing DownThe House”. He was solo fluteat the Academy Awards in 1997and 1998 and played the famouspenny whistle solo from the Titanicsong “My Heart Will Go On” withCeline Dion.PCS’ own principal flutist JanetKetchum joins Mr. Stokes in thespotlight in Vivaldi’s “Concertofor two Flutes and Strings”. MsKetchum will also be the featuredsoloist in Vivaldi’s “La Notte”concerto. Janet Ketchum hasenjoyed a varied career in music.As a performer, she was principalflutist with SF Ballet and SF ContemporaryMusic Players for over12 years and solo recitalist withgrants from the National Endow-THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 3Sheridan Stokesment for the Arts and CaliforniaCouncil on the Arts for 14 years.She has been the principal flutistwith Pacific Chamber Symphonyfor the past 18 years.Tickets for the performance are$39/$34/$29 for adults, and $7 forstudents. They can be purchased byphone at 925.583.2310 or onlineat www.livermoreperformingarts.org/calendar or at the theater boxoffice, 2400 First St., Livermore..Retired Chabot College counselorMarion A. Sanchez will host adance party on Feb. 5 from 11 a.m.to 3 p.m. at the Alameda CountyFairgrounds in Pleasanton.An attempt will be made to seta Guinness World record for theWorld Dance Record Goal of Eventmost seniors dancing at one time,and another record for the mostwheelchair dancers.The event is open to all age 50and over. Entertainment includes“Elvis” dancers and a band.The dance party will take placein Building A, 4501 PleasantonAve., Pleasanton. Admission is $20per person.For information, call 510-786-1858 or 800-472-3373. Purchasetickets at dancing.ticketleap.comor at the door.

4 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 Wine CountryFirst 'Taste of Livermore Valley Winemaker’s Dinner'Highlights The Growing GenerationsBy Laura NessIt was a family affair at theWente Vineyards Restaurant onThursday, January 27, for the firstof what will hopefully be a seriesof similar dinners throughoutthe region. It was a family affair,celebrating the growing family ofwineries in the Valley, and payinghonor to the first families, the Wentesand the Concannons, whosewines were among those featuredat the well-executed 6-course dinnerdivined by Executive ChefEric Berg and his highly efficientculinary cavalry.Carolyn Wente acknowledgedthe honor of being the first restaurantto host what she hoped wouldbe a series of such collaborativewinemaker dinners. That wishwas seconded by John Concannon,who told the story of his father’ssiblings walking to school with theWente children, the 17 of made uphalf the entire school roster. His2006 Captain John’s Petite Sirahwas amazing with the cured duckdish with porcini and chestnutpuree. Pershing and Patton, withwhom Captain Joe Concannonserved in the military, would havesaluted this dish with fervor.Sergio Traverso of Murietta’sWell told the story of his 30 yearhistory in the Livermore Valley,beginning in 1981, highlightedby the birth of his two children in1982 and 1984, which he said coincidedwith his favorite vintages.To celebrate the 20 th anniversaryof Murietta’s well, they departedfrom the bondage of “Meritage”restrictions, branching out to usevarieties beyond Bordeaux. “Youdon’t have to be more Catholicthan the Pope!” he said, in explainingthe shift to include varietieslike Gewurztraminer, Rieslingand Muscat, along with traditionalBordeaux grapes, to make “TheWhip.” This is their new whiteprogram: “The Spur” is their newred.New generations are joiningthe ranks, with Dane Stark of PageMill and his wife, who are expectingtheir third daughter, joined byhis parents, who started Page MillWinery in the hills above Palo Altoback in 1976. Dane told the storyof his father’s first wine, madein carboys, which was dubbed“Urinus Bianca,” a wine never tobe forgotten or repeated. His Dad,Dick Stark, did go on to makelovely Chardonnay, as well asmany memorable Cabs from theChiles Valley, and some beautifulPinots from Bien Nacido.Dane impressed the crowd withhis lovely 2009 Page Mill Chardonnayfrom the Chandler Vineyard atKalthoff Commons on the coolerwestside of the valley, a wine thatgraced the miniature home-madegnocchi with dried apricots andchanterelles, swimming happily intheir creamy dreamy sauce. WhenDane arrived on the Livermorescene in 2002, he sourced nograpes from the region, preferringto work with his long-establishedsuppliers. Soon, he discovered thelocal Sauvignon Blanc to be superiorto those from a Paso source hehad been using since 1983. SaidDane, “I am proud to say that in2010, 95% of what I crushed wasLivermore fruit. I’m a convert. I’vediscovered Livermore. There is nolooking back.”Mark Clarin also acknowledgedthe presence of his parents at theevent, noting that without them,he wouldn’t be there to share thisvery proud moment. A partnerin the Picazo winery, as well aswinemaker for the McGrail brand,Mark came from Bonny Doon towork at Wente, before launchingon his present ventures. He presentedthe 2006 Picazo Merlot,a lithe, seamless trotting horse ofa wine, that worked nicely withthe lamb sugo (a type of ragout,or simple meat-based stew), atopsilky ribbons of home-made pastaand sweet roasted heirloom “peanut”pumpkin, mated with arugulaand dry Jack cheese. Savory andamazing.Next up was Aunt CarolynWente to speak on behalf of 5 thgeneration winemaker nephewKarl’s already phenomenal 2008nth Degree Cabernet, a boldlyexpressive statement of LivermoreCabness. Sourced from three rowsChef Eric Berg discusses the menu he created for the evening.Dane Stark signs a wine bottle.of the best Cab, Merlot and Malbecat each vineyard site, this Cabshines a beacon on what this regioncan do when properly croppingthis variety to preserve its intensepersonality, along with its occasionallyjovial demeanor. Thereare plenty of other varieties thatcan be friendly or provocativelyintense: Cab rides the line nicely.This one does it in exemplaryfashion, like a Mercedes limo withseat warmers.The 2008 nth Degree Cabernetwas solid with the slow roastbeef prime sirloin cap with citrusbraised endive (a brilliant foil tothe blue-cheese potato croquette,which was almost like invitingyour mother-in-law for breakfastafter you’ve been watching herdrink your best scotch all nightlong).But wait there’s more!A decadent meal like this cannotskate away on beef and potatoes.No, it must end on a note oftropical indulgence, especially inCalifornia. By golly, pastry chefLeena Hung was going to get herfruits into the menu. Did she ever,in a most delicious way, with apineapple crostata, filled with limecream and topped with mangosorbet. It was the essence of a hottropical day, with a faint umbrellaruffling breeze and the promise ofa refreshing dip in the ocean. Likea bikini with an ornate coverup,it was paired with the Ruby Hill2009 Amabile Chardonnay port.Sometimes one thing is enough.The wait staff never misseda beat during this entire performance,and made the evening acontinual delight.This was a most generousrepast, from stem to stern, withnothing that threw the vessel offkeel. Let’s hope this fine ship ofcamaraderie will soon set sailagain.

Wine CountryTHE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 5By Laura NessLast September, twenty winerieschose to enter a new All Livermorewine competition sponsored by theTri-Valley Conservancy. Winerieswere invited to submit entries infour categories for the first annual“Livermore Uncorked.” There wasno cost to enter and all you hadto do was send in a Chardonnay,Cabernet, Zin or Petite Sirah thatwas currently released and availablein the market. Here’s a recapof the results:ChardonnayGold ~ Concannon - Reserve2009Silver ~ Stony Ridge - Estate2009Bronze ~ Darcie Kent Vineyards– De Mayo Vineyard 2008Petite SirahGold ~ Fenestra – GhielmettiVineyard 2007Silver ~ Wente – Small Lot2007Bronze ~ Bent Creek – 2007Cabernet SauvignonGold ~ Bent Creek - 2007Silver ~ Wood Family Vineyards– Thomson Ranch Vineyard2008Bronze ~ McGrail Vineyards– Reserve 2007ZinfandelGold ~ Fenestra - 2008Silver ~ Darcie Kent Vineyards– De Mayo Vineyard 2007Bronze ~ Ruby Hill Winery– Peacock Patch Reserve 2008Secrets in the CellarWhat did these winemakers doto craft wines that got the nod fromthe judges panel? We decided toask around. Here are some of theanswers. We’ll go with the “LadiesFirst” policy here.From Darcie Kent, who hadtwo winners in the lineup, weheard this: “These two wines aremy most award wining wines. The2007 De Mayo Zin also won bestof class best red wine in the $30and above price point at the OrangeCounty Fair. De Mayo is a gem ofa vineyard and probably one of thehighest award-wining vineyards inThe Livermore Valley. I love theChardonnay for its tropical notes.We work hard to let those notesshine through by not overpoweringwith ml (malolactic) or oak. Weuse all French oak, 1/3 new, and1/3 ml.” Chemistry on the 2008De Mayo Chardonnay is 3.60pH,14.5% and .70TA.About the DeMayo Zin (3.72pH,Behind the TVC Medalists, Part 114.9%, .66TA), Darcie holds backno praise. “The Zin is very special.There is just one acre of this. It’s76% Zin, 24% Petite Sirah whichare harvested together and co-fermented.Which is a challenge tomake them ripen together and veryrare to co-ferment. The spicy Zinis balanced by the round tanninsof the Petite. “Both of these wines were madein 10-barrel lots (yielding about240 cases) and are featured at theUnderdog Winebar.From Jaime Dowell of CrookedVine/Stony Ridge, we got thisinside scoop on the 2009 EstateStony Ridge Chardonnay.“The grapes were harvested inSeptember at about 24 brix anddestemmed/pressed right away.Last harvest, we didn’t have away to accomplish whole clusterpressing, but we did this year, so Ithink the wines will be even betterin 2010!The wine was barrel-fermentedwith a yeast called CY3079 (fairlycommon,) after a slight acid addition,for 12 days at a cool temperature,in 50% new French oak. Afterprimary fermentation finished, themust was inoculated to start ML,which adds a rich, creamy mouthfeel.But she didn’t want it to gettoo heavy.Dowell commented, “I find thiswine is a fairly light/crisp versionof Chardonnay. To accomplishthis, I only let the wine sit on thelees for about 5 months (withminimal stirring), and stopped theML from reaching saturation, soit didn’t get too buttery and loseits acidity. With any white winethough, to me the easiest trick inthe book to making great wine isto be sure the barrels are topped!!!The slightest amount of oxygenon white wines is death...so don’tlet that “to-do” fall to the bottomof the list.”The Gold Medal winning 2009Concannon Reserve Chardonnay(3.27pH, 15%, .59TA) was madeby the Concannon winemakingteam from fruit off the De MayoVineyard, where the gently slopinghillside soil produces rich, fullbodiedChardonnay. According toConcannon, “Our Reserve winesare made completely by hand inthe tradition of artisanal winemaking.The 2009 Chardonnay,Reserve is an extremely powerful,yet balanced wine with intensetropical fruit flavors of pineappleand guava and ripe green apple.Honeysuckle aromas are balancedby elegant oak notes on both thepalate and smooth finish.” Thewine was aged for 8 months onboth French and American oak.It’s quite a bargain at $20.Winemaker Mark Clarin createdhis usual magic in the cellarwith the 2007 McGrail CabernetSauvignon Estate (3.63pH, 14.4%..56TA). He shared, “This winefrom the estate McGrail Vineyardwas aged in oak for 30 months.We tasted each of 90 barrels andassigned them to their destiny.The Reserve blend is a blend ofvarious barrel types, primarily newoak, from three different countries.American Oak brings a sweetness(vanilla) to the wine.The Hungarian Oak offers atoasty marshmallow finish to thewine and the French Oak bringsa spicy clove. All of those flavorsinteract beautifully with the BlackCherry fruit and earthy tobaccocomponents that the vineyard offers.We produced 900 cases ofReserve Cabernet Sauvignon andit was awarded a gold medal and‘Best Cabernet Sauvignon’ in a recentChicago area competition.”Chris Graves’ notes on thewinemaking of the 2008 RubyHill Peacock Patch Estate ReserveZinfandel, which is actually 80%Zin, 10% Petite Sirah and 10%Merlot (3.58pH, 15.5%, .55TA),include the following: “This 2008Zinfandel Estate Reserve “PeacockPatch” is our ode to the classicjammy Californian varietal. The‘Peacock Patch’ vineyard is ourWestern block of our 200 acres ofvineyards. It is first to receive thecooling fogbank from the GoldenGate Gap in the morning, andthe cooling breezes in the laterafternoon. This allows the vinesto reach warm temperatures inthe afternoon with cooling temperaturesin the evening, resultingin optimum fruit maturation. Thesoil is very stony, and not particularlyfertile, resulting in slightlystressed vines, which producefruit with great concentration andflavor. This wine was aged in 70%new Hungarian and American oakcooperage for 18 months.”Karl Wente’s 2007 Small LotPetite Sirah (3.49pH, 13.8%,.67TA), is composed of 90%Petite Sirah, 8% Barbera and 2%Syrah. The Petite Sirah grapeswere harvested from the Ruby Hill,Herman and Marina blocks andthe Barbera grapes were harvestedfrom the Smith block. After beinghandpicked, the grapes were handsortedat the winery, then gentlypressed, leaving any possible bittertannins behind. The Petite Sirahwas fermented in small one-tonfermentors and punched down byhand twice daily. The Barbera wasfermented in stainless steel. Afterfermentation, the Petite Sirah wasaged for 18 months in American,Eastern European, and neutral oak.The Barbera was aged in stainlesssteel. This really is a beautiful balancedand powerful wine.More insights from the winemakerson the rest of the awardwinners in a subsequent installment.Keep up the great winemakingwork, Livermore!The Tri-Valley Conservancy’smission is to protect the fertilesoils, rangelands, open space andbiological resources, and to supporta viable agricultural economy,in the Tri Valley area. Landownersare offered a voluntary alternativeto subdividing or developing theirproperty through the legal arrangementof a conservation easement,which ensures protection fromfuture development. The TVCcurrently holds the following ineasements: Vineyards 3160 acres;Olive Groves 344 acres; Nut/FruitGroves 137 acres; Open Space/Parkland 444 acres.

6 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 Art & Entertainment"Love in a Mist"PhotosFeaturedat WenteWente Vineyards is presentingthe work of local photographer,Jennie McGregor, from nowthrough February 28. An artistsreception, which is open to thepublic, will be February 6, from1 - 3 pm at the Wente VineyardsEstate Winery tasting room, 5565Tesla Road in Livermore.Jennie will be showing herclose-up photography of nature,including botanicals, insects andanimals. Her work is meticulouslycreated and she enjoys full controlof the process, from the actualphotography to the editing, printingand framing of the images. Thefinished product is renown for itsvivid and inspiring colors.More of Jennie’s work can beseen at the LAA Gallery, locatedat the historic Carnegie Buildingat 2155 3rd St. in Livermore andon her website at www.jenniesphotos.com.The Treasure Hunters Roadshowwill be in Livermore for fivedays. During this free event, theTreasure Hunters are expecting tosee over 1,200 residents bringingin their rare and unusual collectibles.Locals will have a chanceto talk to antique and collectibleexperts. The event is free.The event will be held Feb. 8,9, 10, 11 and 12 at the HolidayInn Express Hotel & Suites, 3000Constitution Dr., Livermore. Hourswill be 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Satur-Quakes and ShakesProgram Aimed at ChildrenA program for children, Quakesand Shakes, will be presented bythe Lawrence Hall of Science at10:30 – 11:30 am on Saturday,February 5 at the Livermore PublicLibrary Civic Center, 1188 S.Livermore Avenue. There is nocharge for this event.It happened to the San FranciscoBay Area in 1906, and againin 1989: tectonic plates shifted,the Earth moved, and devastationfollowed! What can we do if ithappens today? Become a juniorseismologist and explore the insideand outside of our planet, findout what instruments are used tomeasure earthquakes, and piecetogether a proper safety kit tomake sure you’re prepared—notscared—the next time the groundstarts to quake and shake!Lawrence Hall of Science isa renowned resource center forpreschool through high school,science and mathematics educationand a public science center withexciting hands-on experiences forlearners of all ages. Established inGUITARIST(continued from front page)guitarist Carlo Domeniconi, whichis considered by many one of themost unique and exciting works inthe classical guitar repertoire.Fletcher made his formal musicdebut in 1983 at the age of 15. Ofthat performance, a critic wrote,“He has technical facility, but whatone remembers about his playing isthe nuances, poetical phrasing, dynamicand tonal changes, his harmonics,his cadences.” Since thattime, Fletcher has entertained enthusiasticaudiences at prestigiousconcerts, on radio and televisionand with numerous recordings.Peter Burwasser of FanfareMagazine wrote, “Fletcher playsit all with a gracious virtuosity thatTreasure Hunters Coming to Townday and Sunday.During this event at the HolidayInn Express Hotel & Suites ourtreasure hunters are hoping to seeitems such as coins and paper currencyissued prior to 1965, toys,dolls, trains, vintage jewelry, oldand modern musical instruments,war memorabilia, gold and silverjewelry, costume jewelry, advertisingmemorabilia, swords, knives,daggers, and the unusual.Nearly all coins, vintage jewelry,musical instruments and toysmade prior to 1965 are highly1968 at the University of California,Berkeley in honor of ErnestO. Lawrence, UC’s first Nobellaureate, Lawrence Hall of Scienceis a national leader in the developmentof innovative materials andprograms for students, teachers,families, and the public at large.This program is part of LivermoreReads Together, a community-widereading program featuringJames Dalessandro’s book, 1906:A Novel, about the San Franciscoearthquake and fire.The community of Livermore isencouraged to join their neighborsby participating in the LivermoreReads Together free events forchildren and adults during themonth of February 2011. Copiesof books and event schedules areavailable at all Livermore PublicLibrary locations. LivermoreReads Together is sponsored byThe Friends of the LivermoreLibrary.For additional events check thelibrary’s website at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.makes for a very pleasing hour plusof unaffected musical poetry.”Tickets are Adult-$16, $20 and$24; Child-$12 and Senior-$18.They may be purchased online atwww.firehousearts.org up to threehours prior to the performance,by phone at (925) 931-4848, or inperson at the Firehouse Arts CenterBox Office. Box Office hours areWednesday-Friday, 12 noon-6:00p.m., Saturday 10:00 a.m.-4:00p.m., and for two hours prior to theperformance. Group discounts areavailable. More information aboutFirehouse Arts Center is availableat www.firehousearts.org.The entrance to free FirehouseArts Center parking is on SpringStreet near First Street.sought after by collectors. TheTreasure Hunters Roadshow is aplace where anyone in the communitycan connect with collectorsfrom around the globe.Treasure hunters make offersbased on what collectors are willingto pay. When someone decidesto sell, they are paid on the spot andour treasure hunters send the itemto the collector at their expense.Information about the TreasureHunters Roadshow can befound at www.treasurehuntersroadshow.com.Jessica AguirreRagin' CajunEvent Raises Fundsfor FoundationRagin’ Cajun, featuring music,dancing, buffet dinner, beads, liveauctions, and more, will be heldIt’s time to submit work to theLas Positas Literary Anthology.The anthology is currently acceptingprose, poetry or artwork to beconsidered for the 2011 edition ofthe book.Prose writers may submit up to5000 words of prose, and poetrywriters may submit up to 10 poems.Artists may submit up to 10pieces of artwork or photography.All submissions will be reviewedand automatically consid-on Friday, February 11, 2011 atthe Palm Event Center in Pleasanton.Ragin’ Cajun is the annualfundraiser event for the Sandra JWing Healing Therapies Foundation,which provides cancer patientswith financial assistance forcomplementary healing servicesduring the course of their chemoor radiation therapy.Master of Ceremonies for thisyear’s event is none other than JessicaAguirre the evening anchor forNBC Bay Area News.The Annual Ragin’ Cajunevent is rolling into town onfloats of feathers, beads, andDoubloons. Tickets are availableonline at www.healingtherapiesfoundation.org or by calling (866)862-7270.Entries Being Sought for LPCLiterary AnthologyThe Livermore Public Libraryinvites teens to participate in the2010 Teen Art Exposition and Contest.The Friends of the LivermorePublic Library is sponsoring thisopportunity for teens to share theirartistic talent with local artists andthe citizens of Livermore.Livermore residents in thesixth through twelfth grades areencouraged to submit a piece oforiginal art. Works eligible for thisexhibit are limited to visual mediaincluding painting, sculpture,photography, textiles and collage.Entries will be accepted Tuesday,March 1, 2011 through Thursday,March 31, 2011 at the Civic CenterLibrary. The first five entrants willeach receive a $10 gift certificatedonated by Way Up Art and Frameered for awards. Decisions will bemade in mid-April with a releaseand awards ceremony to be heldSaturday, May 14 at 2 p.m. at LasPositas College.For information about how tosubmit work, search for “anthology”on the LPC website. Entriesare due by March 1, 2011.For more information, contactMelissa Korber, co-adviser of theanthology, at 925-424-1286.Teen Art Contest Taking Entriesin Livermore.Teen artwork will be on displayfrom April 1 through April 30 inthe Civic Center Library Art Galleryduring the library’s regularhours. Artwork will be shown asspace allows. On Tuesday, April 2,2011, artwork will be judged andribbons awarded.The community is invited toattend the Artist’s Reception thattakes place on Tuesday, April 26,2011 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm inCommunity Room A of the CivicCenter Library.For more information and toaccess entry forms, please visitTEEN SPACE on the LivermorePublic Library’s website at www.livermore.lib.ca.us or contactSandy at 373-5500 ext. 5583.

Wine & EntertainmentBy Harry StollNear year’s end, Deer RidgeVineyards on Wetmore Road—close to Arroyo Road—was soldto Las Pas Positas Vineyards. TheDeer Ridge property includes a 30-acre vineyard and two rather-new,impressive, substantial, buildings.Buyer Las Positas owns a 20-acrevineyard on Kalthoff Common,and operates a tasting room in anindustrial park near the 580 andNorth Greenville Road. The saleportends important changes forboth brands.“We are going to operate aworking winery there,” said LasPositas marketing director BrianMom, speaking of their new site.The main building has fermentationand aging tanks both insideand outside. “Any missing equipmentwill be in place for this year’scrush,” said Mom.“We posted on January 7,” saidMom, referring to the State-required,Public Notice of Applicationto Sell Alcoholic Beverages,appearing in two public placesat the site. The business name isgiven as Las Positas Vineyardsand the applicant is listed as MaierThe California Writers ClubTri-Valley Branch invites writersof all genres and experience levelsto learn about their craft and sharetheir work. The California WritersClub Tri-Valley next meeting isSaturday, February 19, 2011, 11:30a.m., at the Oasis Grille, 780 MainStreet, Pleasanton.Pleasanton Poet Laureate DeborahGrossman will present at thismonth’s lunch program. She willbe speaking on Why We Write, andposing the question: Is Writing aSocial or Solitary Experience?Ms. Grossman is bound to providesome interesting and helpfulA Reader’s Theater performancefor children of Stephen Krensky’sbook, Lizzie Newton and the SanFrancisco Earthquake, will bepresented at 10:30am on Saturday,February 12 at the LivermorePublic Library Civic Center, 1188S. Livermore Avenue. There is nocharge for this event.Under the general direction ofPhilip Manwell, Dean; studentsfrom the Arts and CommunicationDivision at Las Positas Collegewill offer a special presentationof the children’s book, LizzieNewton and the San FranciscoEarthquake. The story of ten-yearoldLizzie Newton, who havinghelped take her grandmother tothe hospital after the 1906 SanFrancisco earthquake, sets off onher own to find her parents. Theprogram allows the audience toexperience the earthquake from achild’s perspective.This program is part of LivermoreReads Together, a community-widereading program featuringJames Dalessandro’s book, 1906:A Novel, about the San Franciscoearthquake and fire. The communityof Livermore is encouragedto join their neighbors by participatingin the Livermore ReadsTogether free events for childrenand adults during the month ofFebruary 2011. Copies of booksand event schedules are availableat all Livermore Public Library locations.Livermore Reads Togetheris sponsored by The Friends of theLivermore Library.For additional events view, thelibrary’s website at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 7Change of eno-scenery on Wetmore RoadOne entity exits, another entity entersWinery, LLC. Lisa and LotharMaier own Las Positas.The Deer Ridge land and buildingswere owned by Carl and CherieLyle; they retain rights to thebrand name and to the wine stock.They leased back the property fromLas Positas until late January andsold some of the wine stock at from$3 to $10 per bottle. The last dayof the sale was January 23.The following week the sitelooked lonely. Not abandoned, butlonely. Shiny windows looked outvacantly at the empty parking lot.No tasters sat at the tables on theveranda. No sound bounced off thebuttery stucco walls. The deep redtrim around the windows had nota word to say and the red tile roofwas also silent. No glasses clinked.No wine swirled. Signs with arrowspointing to “Deer Ridge,” andsigns reading “Open for TastingToday,” were stacked haphazardlyagainst the fenced trash area.The tasting room should riseagain around Presidents’ Day. TheState told Moms the approval tooperate a tasting room typicallytakes from 30-60 days. Since atasting room has been open onthe site since 2007, it will probablyskate through. The Lyles hadalways made it a point to talk tothe neighbors in the nearby affluentneighborhood. Las Positas hastalked to the neighbors, said Mom.They are glad the site will not bevacant. He said the buildings are ingood shape and they will operatethe tasting room while doing someinterior renovations.Neither buyer nor seller revealedthe sale price. A web searchshowed it was listed for sale inNovember 2010 for $2.95 million.And extrapolating from the taxesfor FY 2010/2011 of about $31,000the assessed value was probablyabout $2.5 million.In announcing the sale, CarlLyle assured customers DeerRidge Vineyards wine would bemade at a custom crush facility.In a custom crush, a brand oftenprovides the grapes to a wineryand specifies how the wine isto be made. That can involve asimple order for a varietal, all theway to many details covering theentire winemaking process, suchas fermentation, treatment, and aging.However, only the producingWriters Invite to Share Work and Ideasanswers, with her experience andsuccess as author of Goldie andMe, a book about family, friendshipand freedom seen through thelens of poetry.Deborah, the winner of severalregional poetry awards, is alsoan independent food and winejournalist who writes for suchpublications as the San FranciscoChronicle, Wine Enthusiast, andDecanter.This month’s meeting willalso host the club’s annual BookExchange. The event gives eachmember or guest the opportunityto exchange a gently-read bookfor a book donated by anothermember.The meeting, including lunch,costs $21 for members, $27 fornonmembers. Anyone curiousabout the program or club canattend with no obligation to join.Reservations are required. For aseat, contact Annette Langer at(925) 484-5924 or alanger2@comcast.net,by Wednesday, February16. For more about the CaliforniaWriters Club Tri-Valley Branch,contact Vi Moore at 925-960-9834or vimoore@sbcglobal.net or visitwww.trivalleywriters.org.Reader's Theatre Performs at Livermore Librarywinery is allowed to actually makethe wine. “The same strong teamwill continue to control the styleand quality of our wines,” saidLyle by e-mail. He also said theyare looking at two sites for a tastingroom, one being in Livermore.Lyle also said they had plannedto sell the property within 10years of their 2000 start-up. “I justreached retirement age. The time toedit our lives is now,” said Lyle bye-mail. Originally, the Deer RidgeVineyards brand was producedat nearby Tenuta Vineyards. In2007, the Deer Ridge Vineyardsbuildings were completed and thetasting room opened.Las Positas Vineyards ownersLisa and Lothar Maier bought theirKalthoff Common vineyard in2006 and opened the tasting roomin the North Greenville Road areain the summer of 2010. The wine iscurrently made by Wente from theKalthoff Common vineyard grapesand from other Livermore Valleyvineyards. The Maiers, in commonwith a few other local wineries,intend to make wine only fromLivermore Valley grapes.The new Las Posistas site hasa sweeping view of the valleyand the spacious tasting room hasplenty of natural light. Tastingwine under an umbrella on thepatio should prove pleasant. Thedining room has tall southern windows.The site is within 1.5 milesof Eckert Estate Winery, FenestraWinery, Thomas Coyne Winery,and Rodrigue Molyneux; and notmuch further from Mitchell KatzWinery, Ruby Hill Winery, TenutaVineyards, the Wente Event Centerand restaurant, and Campo diBocce restaurant.Las Positas currently offersChardonnay, Barbera, CabernetSauvignon, and Petite Sirah.So, it’s location, location, location,in a pleasant setting that isripe and ready for harvesting.Auditions Set for Rebecca ofSunnybrook FarmCity of Pleasanton Civic ArtsStage Company will hold auditionsfor Kate Wiggins’ Rebecca ofSunnybrook Farm on Saturday andSunday, February 26 and 27, 2011from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m.Auditions are open to agesseven years-adult. They will takeplace at the Firehouse Arts Center,4444 Railroad Avenue in downtownPleasanton, Calif.Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farmis about a very creative, willfulgirl who lives with her kind AuntJane and strict Aunt Miranda inRiverboro, Maine, where shealternately charms and horrifiesthe residents. Themes of the storyinclude the importance of a goodeducation, valuing differencesbetween people and the power ofa family’s love.Audition packets are availableat www.firehousearts.org/programs.After receiving the packet,auditioners must email their name,parent’s name if under 18 years,telephone number and email addressto rennals@sfshakes.org.Applicants will be notified byphone or email of audition timeconfirmation.Rehearsals will begin on Sunday,March 13, 2011. Performanceswill take place May 6-15, 2011 atthe Firehouse Arts Center.Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm isbeing produced through a partnershipbetween City of PleasantonDepartment of Parks and CommunityServices and San FranciscoShakespeare Festival. It will bedirected by Paula Wujek.Additional information is availableby contacting San FranciscoShakespeare Festival at (415) 865-4425 or rennals@sfshakes.org.

8 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 Art & EntertainmentART/PHOTO EXHIBITSBelieve/Achieve Art Exhibit, Diablo/AlamedaBranch of the National League ofAmerican Pen Women (NLAPW) at theJohn O'Lague Galleria and the HaywardCity Hall through ®Feb. 9, 2011. There isno admission charge. Hayward City Hallis located at 777 B Street. Pen Womenwriters will be performing original worksat the reception. Music and refreshmentswill be provided.Pushpa Dalal, abstract photo show, "Color,Light and Movement" gallery in theBarbara Mertes Center for the Arts at LasPositas College, 3000 Campus Hill Dr.,Livermore. Parking fee $2. Information424-1000.Harrington Art Gallery exhibit, Look ofJazz, Saturday, January 29, 2011 – Tuesday,February 22, 2011. Gallery ReceptionSaturday, January 20, 2011, 3 to 5pm.Bay Area artists such as Chester Elmore,Joan Finton and James Gayles will befeatured in an exhibit that celebratesjazz and how it can inspire visual artists.This exhibit will be held in conjunctionwith our annual Campana Jazz Festival,February 17-20, 2011. Firehouse ArtsCenter, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton.www.firehousearts.org.Art Crawl, February 12, 2011, from 1 to 4p.m., Art Crawl joins with Bothwell ArtsCenter’s Downtown Art Studios’ OpenStudios for an afternoon of art. Crawls willcontinue on the second Saturday of everymonth, except October, when Art Crawlsteps aside for the much larger art tour,ArtWalk. Art Crawl is a free tour of openstudios, art displays and exhibitions. Formore information about the Crawl, pleasesee www.lindaryanfineart.com.Bankhead Theater will be exhibiting theIntersecting Color works of Angela Johaland kaleidoscopic local images created byChristine McCall through February 14th.Generally open to ticketed theater patronsonly, the Bankhead is located at 2400First Street, Livermore. The Bankhead’sperformance calendar can be found atwww.bankheadtheater.org.Wild Vine art exhibition program in Februaryfeatures husband-and-wife team KenBall and Victoria Whyte Ball. The exhibitincludes Ken’s special take on nude photographyand Victoria’s evocative workwith the camera. Reception Thursday,February 10th from 6-7:30 pm. WildVine, 2187 First Street, Livermore, alsoparticipates in Second Saturday OpenStudios/Art Crawls.MEETINGS/CLASSESFigure Drawing Workshop, every Friday9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Artists bring theirown materials and easels. Open to all artists.Professional artist models (nude). Noinstructor. Students under 18 need writtenparental permission to attend. Cost $20per session. At the Bothwell Arts Center,2466 8th St., Livermore. Coffee, tea andrefreshments are available. Contact BarbaraStanton for more info, 925-373-9638or microangelo@earthlink.net.Journal Writing Club for Young Adults,young adults ages 12-21, are invited to jointhe Journal Writing Club for Young Adultsat the Livermore Public Library, CivicCenter, on Thursday evenings, February10 and March 3, 2011 from 6:30 to 8:00pm, for a fun- filled evening of writingwith author J.L. Powers. Those attendingwill learn about publishing their works andhow to expand their writing horizons. VisitTEEN SPACE on the library’s website:www.livermore.lib.ca.us or contact Sandyat 925-373-5500 extension 5583.Figure Drawing and Painting Workshoptaught by Livermore artist Carolyn Lord,Saturday, March 19 and Sunday March20, 2011, 9 am to 4 pm. $99 plus $50Model’s fee. Students bring own art suppliesRegister through Las Positas CommunityEducation. "Figure Drawing andPainting Workshop" , when registeringthe Class' Code Number is AL478 Howto register-http://www.laspositascollege.edu/communityed/index.php?WINERY EVENTSTamás Estates news & events: Valentine'sVoyage, February 12, 6-8 pm; reservationsare highly recommended, as space islimited. $15 for Salute! wine club membersand $20 for non-members. TamasTuesdays, February 22, 4-7 pm, explorea world of wines rooted in California.Reservations are highly recommended,as space is limited. Complimentary forSalute! wine club member and one guest.$10 for non-members Livermore; informationat 925-456-2380. Tamás Estates,5565 Tesla Road“It Takes Two to be in love," (Just likewine & chocolate) Eagle Ridge Vineyard& Les Chenes Vineyard are pairing up tocelebrate their love of Wine & Chocolateto Share with you & the one you love. Feb.12 and 13, noon to 4:30 p.m.: Les Chenes–Chocolate Souffle & Syrah; Eagle Ridge– Petite Sirah Chocolate Truffles; ChocolateCake Balls & Cabernet. Have “YourHeart” stamped with any wine purchaseat both wineries. Enter a drawing for a“It Takes Two To Be In Love” Basket fullof both chocolate & wine. Drawing is 5p.m. Sun., Feb. 13. Need not be presentto win. Les Chenes, 5562 Victoria Lane;Livermore; Eagle Ridge Vineyard, 10017Tesla Road, Livermore.The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards iscelebrating Valentine’s Day with a specialmenu available February 12-14, 2011.Executive Chef Eric Berg has designeda delicious three-course menu priced at$55, with an additional cost for winepairings. 5050 Arroyo Road, Livermore- (925) 456-2300Valentines Day Port and Chocolate affair,Feb. 12 and 13, library port servedwith a special fudge recipe. Charles RVineyards is located at 8195 Crane RidgeRoad in Livermore. Open noon - 4:30Friday - Sunday.Poppy Ridge, Valentine dining, Sat., Feb.12, five course gourmet meal, live music,romantic candlelight dining, champagnetoast. Reservations 456-8215. $25 ++per person.Thomas Coyne Winery winter open houseFeb. 19, 20, 21, noon to 5 p.m. at thehistorical tasting room at 51 E. VallecitosRoad, Livermore. Release of new winesincluding the Livermore Cabernet Franc2006. Selection of fine fruits and cheesesserved. "Bottle Your Own Wine" We willbe selling Vino Tinto Barato at the OpenHouse. Bring a clean bottle, we will fill,cork and label it for you for $6.00 perbottle. Use our bottle for $6.50. Or youmay bottle label and cork it yourself.Available only on Feb 19 and 20. Limit ofsix bottles per person. (925) 373-6541 orvisit http://thomascoynewinery.comMUSIC/CONCERTSChris Bradley's Jazz Band, plays at TheSunol Jazz Cafe (In the Center of Sunol)the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month7:30-9:30 p.m. The band features real Jazzfrom the 1920's, 30's, 40's.Amador Valley High School Winter Percussionunit and Winterguard host a dual homecompetition at Amador Valley High Schoolin Pleasanton, on Saturday, February 5, 2011,from 12pm-10:30pm. Amador Valley HighSchool Gymnasium on 1155 Santa Rita Roadin Pleasanton. Percussion Event will runfrom 12:30-3:30, Guard Event will run from5:30-10:30 Tickets are $10 for adults, and$8 for students and seniors, (children under5 are free) and are good for both competitions.Doors will open 30 minutes beforeeach show (the gym will be cleared betweenevents). Snacks, baked goods and drinkswill be available for purchase. The event issponsored by Amador Friends of Music, anon-profit booster organization. Information,Jon Grantham, Director of Band, AmadorValley High School (jgratham@pleasanton.k12.ca.us), or Beth Foort (bfoort@gmail.com) 925-425-9932Recital, Concert Pianist Daniel Glover, benefitthe Valley Concert Chorale on Saturday,February 5, 2011 at 7:30 p.m., at the FirstPresbyterian Church in Livermore. Thechurch is located at the corner of 4th and LStreets. Program will feature compositionsby Franz Liszt to commemorate the 200thAnniversary of the composer’s birthday;Schumann’s First Piano Sonata, Bartok’sSuite, and works by the lesser-known Russiancomposer Sergei Liapunov, written in thestyle of Liszt. Tickets are $25. Tickets maybe purchased in advance by calling the ValleyConcert Chorale’s general informationline at (925) 866-4003, or via the Chorale’swebsite at www.valleyconcertchorale.org,or at the door. Tickets are also available atTowne Center Books in downtown Pleasanton.Visit the Chorale’s website for moreinformation.All District Jr. High Orchestra Concert,Feb. 5. Barbara Mertes Center for the Arts,000 Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. PerformingArts Events Line at 925.424.1100 orgo to www.laspositascollege.edu/performingartsBenny Torres Jazz Quartet will performSun., Feb. 6 at 2 p.m. at the PleasantonLibrary. Sponsored by the Friends of thePleasanton Public Library. All libraryprograms are free and open to the public.No registration is required. For moreinformation, please call Penny Johnson,931-3405.Dave Mason, rock’n roll legend, Wed., Feb.9, 7:30 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 FirstSt., Livermore. www.livermoreperformingarts.orgor 925-373-6800.36th annual Campana Jazz Festival, Sat.,Feb. 12, Amador Valley High School, 1155Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton. Competitionsand performances throughout the day. www.amadormusic.org.Diablo Symphony Orchestra presentsFlamenco! with Carolina Lugo’s & CaroléAcuña’s Brisas de España and ConductorJoyce Johnson-Hamilton. Sunday February13, 2011 at 7:30 PM. Lesher Center forthe Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek.Tickets at 925-943-7469 or http://purchase.tickets.com.Livermore-Amador Symphony, concert,Youth Soloists, Tell, and Till, Feb. 12, 8p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St.,Livermore. Youth Soloists featured, “Telland Till. Prelude talk 7 p.m. 925-373-6800,www.livermoreperformingarts.orgEarly Music Concert, Farallon RecorderQuarter, February 12, 2011, 7:30 preconcerttalk, 8:00 concert. Early MusicConcert Series. The Morning Star - musicfrom Northern Europe. Barbara MertesCenter for the Arts, Las Positas College,3000 Campus Hill Dr., Livermore. Farallonwill perform works from medievalEngland through Renaissance Germanyand the Low Countries to the courts of Versaillesand the Thomaskirche of Leipzig.Tickets are $15 for individual concerts.www.lpcearlymusic.org or www.laspositascollege.edu/performingartsSwing, Swing, Swing, Pied Pipers, PollyPodewell and Gene Krupa Tribute Band,Sun., Feb. 13, 3 p.m. Bankhead Theater,2400 First St., Livermore. www.livermoreperformingarts.org or 925-373-6800.Wesla Whitfield, Feb. 13, 2 p.m. FirehouseArts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton.www.firehousearts.orgDiablo Symphony Orchestra presentsFlamenco! with Carolina Lugo’s &Carolé Acuña’s Brisas de España andConductor Joyce Johnson-Hamilton.Sunday February 13, 2011 at 7:30 PM.Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 CivicDrive, Walnut Creek. Tickets at 925-943-7469 or http://purchase.tickets.com.America, Feb. 18, 8 p.m. Dougherty ValleyPerforming Arts Center, 10550 AlbionRd., San Ramon, 973-3343 or SanRamonPerformingArts.com.Youth Music Festival, Sat., Feb. 19, 2 p.m.Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 RailroadAve., Pleasanton. www.firehousearts.orgPeter Fletcher - Classical Guitarist, Sun.,Feb. 20, 3 p.m. Firehouse Arts Center,4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton. www.firehousearts.orgPacific Chamber Symphony, concert Feb.25, features master flutist Sheridon Stokesrejoins PCS for a program of works forflute and orchestra: Vivaldi’s Concerto forTwo Flutes, the Adagietto from Mahler’sSymphony #5, and the world premier of awork by Los Angeles composer ChristopherCaliendo. Bankhead Theater, 2400First St., Livermore. Tickets or informationwww.LivermorePerformingArts.org or call the Bankhead Theater at 925373-6800.The Music of Doris Day, with Jim MartinezTrio and Laura Didier, Sun., Feb. 27, 2p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St.,Livermore. www.livermoreperformingarts.orgor 925-373-6800.ON THE STAGEDirty Rotten Scoundrels, Tri-Valley RepertoryTheatre musical comedy production.Performances weekends Jan. 21-Feb. 6,2011, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m.Sundays. Bankhead Theater, 2400 FirstSt., Livermore. Call 462-2121 or go towww.trivalleyrep.com for information.The Lion in Winter, Jan. 21-Feb. 12, VillageTheater, 233 Front St., Danville. Presentedby Role Players Ensemble Theatre. www.danvilletheatre.com.You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown-Feb.4, 5 and 6, Tri-Valley Young PerformersAcademy (TVYPA) will present performancesof the musical comedy. Performancesare Friday, Feb. 4 at 7:00 p.m.and Saturday, Feb. 5 at 2 p.m. (SnoopyCast) and Saturday, Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. andSunday, Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. (Charlie BrownCast) at Livermore High School, 600Maple Avenue. Advance tickets are adults$10 and students $5 (available at website);at the door adults $13 and students $8.Please bring a food donation for AlamedaCounty Community Food Bank. Fortickets or information visit the website atwww.TriValleyYPA.org.The Time Machine: Love Among theEloi, encore performance presented byOhlone College Theatre Department. Fri.,Feb. 11, 8 p.m. Smith Center at OhloneCollege, 43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont.After a sold out run in November, TheTime Machine: Love Among the Eloi hasbeen invited to perform at the WesternRegional Conference in consideration forthe Kennedy Center’s national award forBest Original Play. Time Machine is oneof only four plays chosen to represent thecolleges and universities from the ninewestern states. As a fundraiser to assistwith travel costs for cast and crew, to theWestern Regional Conference, there willbe a one night only encore performanceof this award-winning production. Tickets$20 adults, $15 seniors and students. (510)659-6031 or www.smithcenter.com.Reach for the Stars! An Evening of theArts for the Arts, Livermore ValleyEducation Foundation presents a specialevening fund-raiser featuring artsshowcase performances by elementary,middle and high school students enrolledin Livermore Valley Joint Unified SchoolDistrict’s music, drama, dance and visualarts programs. Thurs., March 31 at 7 p.m.at the Bankhead Theater in Livermore.Tickets are $25 for reserved seats; studentstickets are $12.50 with the purchase ofa reserved seat in any section. www.livermoreperformingarts.com, or at theBankhead box office, 2400 First St., Livermore.For additional information, contact:Victoria Schellenberger, LVEF President,vschellenberger@sbcglobal.netBat Boy: The Musical, Tri-Valley RepertoryTheatre. Studio Theatre, 1048Serpentine Lane, Suite 309, Pleasanton.Weekends Feb. 18-March 13. Call 462-2121 or go to www.trivalleyrep.com forinformation.Little House On The Prairie, Feb. 19-27,Presented by Bay Area Children’s Theater,Front Row Theater, 17011 BollingerCanyon Rd., San Ramon, 973-3343 orSanRamonPerformingArts.com.Arsenic and Old Lace, Asbury Players,March 18, 19, 20, 2011. Asbury UnitedMethodist Church, 4743 East Ave., Livermore.Curtain time is 8 p.m. on Fridayand Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.Doors open 20 minutes prior to showtime. Tickets are $10 general admission,$8 for seniors and children under 12. Foradditional ticket information, please call455-1048.Shakespeare’s Associates’ production ofA Life in the Theatre by David Mamet.March 31-April 23, 2011, Thursdays,Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at theBothwell Arts Center, 2466 Eighth Street,Livermore, CA. Tickets from $25-$35 bycalling 1-800-838-3006 or www.LivermoreShakes.org.For more informationvisit www.LivermoreShakes.org or call925-443-BARD (2273).The Yeomen of The Guard, LamplightersMusic Theatre. 8 p.m. Sat., Feb.19 and 2 p.m. Sun., Feb. 20. BankheadTheater, 2400 First St., Livermore.www.livermoreperformingarts.org or925-373-6800.Queen of Bingo, theater a go-go, Feb. 24-26, 8 p.m. Feb. 27, 2 p.m. Firehouse ArtsCenter, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton.www.firehousearts.orgLivermore 2011 Talent Finals, Sat., Feb.26, 7 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400First St. Presented by the Rotary Clubsof Livermore as a fund-raiser. www.livermoreperformingarts.org or call925-373-6800.Godspell, Livermore High School production,Feb. 25, 26 and March 4, 5, 8 p.m. atthe school, 600 Maple St., Livermore.The Sound of Music, presented by AmadorValley and Foothill high schools, March17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 7:30 p.m. AmadorTheater, 1155 Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton.Tickets at www.firehousearts.org.COMEDYCreatures of Impulse, Pleasanton's teenimprov troupe, presents their most popularshort-form show to date on Thursday,February 3 and Friday, February 4 at7:30 p.m. Performances are 7:30 p.m. onThurs., Feb. 3 and Fri., Feb. 4 at the FirehouseArts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave.,Pleasanton. Tickets are $5 in advance forstudents with valid ID, general admission$8 advance/$10 at the door. For tickets,please visit www.firehousearts.org.Girlfriends Gala, The Four Bitchin’ Babesrevue starring Sally Fingerett, Debi Smith,Nancy Moran and Deidre Flint. Mon., Feb.14, 7:30 p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400First St., Livermore. Tickets or informa-

Art & EntertainmentTHE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 9tion at www.livermoreperformingarts.orgor 925-373-6800.DANCELe Tableau Magnifique, LivermoreSchool of Dance, will be performing“Variations in Motion” at The BankheadTheater on Saturday, March 5, 2011, withperformances at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.The performances are a benefit for TheDiabetic Youth Foundation and a portionof the proceeds will be given to theorganization. The Company will presentfive different programs starting with afull-length production of the story ballet,Coppelia. Bankhead Theater, 2400 FirstSt., Livermore. Tickets or informationat (925) 373-6800 or via their websiteat www.livermoreperformingarts.org.Tickets are $18, $20, and $24. Dessertreception in the lobby.AUDITIONS/VOLUNTEERSSolo Piano Competition for young artists,sponsored by Las Positas College MusicDepartment, open to ages 14 through24. The winner will perform GeorgeGershwin’s, “Rhapsody in Blue” at theMay 4, 2011 Orchestra Concert as part ofthe inaugural season for the new BarbaraFracisco Mertes Center for the Arts. Theapplication deadline is February 10, 2011.The selection will take place in February.To request application forms and information,please contact Music instructor MaryCampbell, mcampbell@laspositascollege.edu,(925) 424-1118.Godspell auditions, Tri-Valley RepertoryTheatre - Book by John Michael Tebelak,Music & Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz,Based on The Gospel According to St.Matthew, Director Susan Hovey, MusicDirector Greg Zema, Choreographer EmilyGarcia. Used with permission by MusicTheatre International. Casting all rolesin this non-Equity, community theatreproduction. Auditions: Tuesday, February8th at 7:30pm. No appointment necessary.Call-backs by invitation only: Thursday,February 10th at 7:30pm. Triple ThreatDance Studios, 315 Wright Bros Avenue,Livermore. Please prepare a brief song(16-32 bars of music) from somethingpop/rock written from the late-1960speriod and later. Musicals preferred,showcase vocal range. Bring sheet music;accompanist provided. Wear comfortableclothes and shoes you can dance in afteryour song. Bring a picture, resume andcalendar/organizer for conflicts. Informationat www.trivalleyrep.org.Auditions, “Rebecca of SunnybrookFarm," Civic Arts Stage Company SpringShow, Directed by Paula Wujek. Auditionsare Saturday and Sunday, February 26 and27, 2011 from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m.Audition packets will be available at www.firehousearts.org/programs. After receivingthe packet, auditioners must emailname, parent’s name if under 18 years,telephone number and email address torennals@sfshakes.org. Applicants willbe notified by phone or email of auditiontime confirmation.Auditions, The Sound of Music, Tri-ValleyRepertory Theatre. Saturday February19 at 11:00am or Monday, February 21at 7:30pm. Call-backs by invitation onlyFeb. 22 and 24 at 7:30pm. 1048 SerpentineLane #303, Pleasanton. Please prepare abrief song (16-32 bars). Bring sheet music;accompanist provided. Please bringa picture and resume, stapled together.No tapes; no a capella. Be prepared todance. www.trivalleyrep.com for moreinformation. Director: Daren A.C.Carollo, Vocal Direction: Sean Aloise,Choreographer: Todd Aragon, Producer:Kathleen Breedveld, Musical Director:Jo Ann Fosselman. Performance dates:July 22, 2011 through August 7, 2011,Bankhead Theater, Livermore.MOVIESKings of Pastry, a documentary film, willbe shown on February 17 at the FirehouseArts Center, 4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton.Presented by the Pleasanton Library.Doors open 6:15pm, film screens at 7pm.Seating is on a first-come, first-servedbasis. The film events are free and opento all. No registration is required. Formore information, call Penny Johnson,931-3405.Going Places: A Classic Film Series, shownthe first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m.in the Pleasanton Library's meeting roomthrough June 2, 2011. The program is apartnership of Las Positas College and thePleasanton Public Library proudly present.Candy Klaschus, film historian andCoordinator of the Humanities Programat Las Positas College, is the host. Thereis no admission charge. 400 Old BernalAve., Pleasanton. 931-3400. No registrationrequired.Facing Ali, a documentary film about boxerMuhammad Ali, will be shown on March17 at the Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 RailroadAve., Pleasanton. Presented by thePleasanton Library. Doors open 6:15pm,film screens at 7pm. Seating is on a firstcome,first-served basis. The film eventsare free and open to all. No registrationis required. For more information, callPenny Johnson, 931-3405.CHORALVienna Boys Choir, Fri., Feb. 11, 8p.m. Bankhead Theater, 2400 FirstSt., Livermore. Tickets or informationwww.livermoreperformingarts.org or925-373-6800.OPERAMet Opera Theater-casts, 10 a.m. simultaneousviewings and 12 encorerebroadcasts of Metropolitan Operaproductions at Dublin's Regal Cinema,6:30 p.m. Wednesdays - Schedule: Feb.12, Mar. 2: Glass's "Nixon in China;"Feb. 26, Mar. 16: Gluck's "Iphigenia inTauride;" April 9, 27: Rossini's "Le ComteOry;" April 23, May 11: Richard Strauss's"Capriccio;" April 30, May 18: Verdi's "IlTrovatore;" May 14, June 11: Wagner's"Die Walkure."The Barber of Seville, Opera San Josécontinues its 27th Season presentsRossini’s comic opera, The Barber ofSeville. Eight performances are scheduledfrom February 12 through 27 at theCalifornia Theatre, 345 South First Streetin downtown San José. Tickets are onsale at the Opera San José Box Office,by phone at (408) 437-4450 or onlineat www.operasj.org. This production ofThe Barber of Seville is made possible,in part, by a Cultural Affairs Grant fromthe City of San José.Marie's Take on Anna Russell or "I'm notmaking this up, you know!" is the topicfor the winter gala sponsored by the SanFrancisco Opera Guild, East Bay Chapter.Sun., Feb. 27 at 4:30 p.m. at the CrowCanyon Country Club, 711 Silver LakeDr., Danville. Soprano Marie Plette willpresent an interpretation of Anna Russell'shilarious musical synopsis of "The Ringof the Nibelungen." Check-in and no-hostbar are at 4:30 p.m., dinner at 5:30 p.m.followed by the program and drawing.Cost is $85 per person. Proceeds benefitprograms for singers in the Adler Fellowshipand Merola Opera programs as wellas for students in K-12th grades. Reservationdeadline is Feb. 22. Seating is open.Reserved priority seating for reservationsof tables of 8. Non-members are very welcome.No tickets will be mailed. Nameswill be on list at door. For Informationcontact the con-chairman Elva Cooper at925-846-2092 or PhilandElva@Comcast.net, Irene Reich at p.i.reich@Comcast.net(not between Jan. 15 and 30) or Silvia Linat LLLLL@juno.com or 925-838-9255(not from Feb. 1 to 20).MISCELLANEOUSArts/poetry contest, Pleasanton CulturalArts Contest is sponsoring a Linked VisualArts and Poetry Contest with a cash prize.Poets and Junior Poets will have throughTuesday, February 22, to view visual artcreated by members of The PleasantonArts League and write a poem in responseto that artwork. The artwork will be ondisplay at Little Valley Winery, Studio 7,Rising Loafer, Towne Center Books, andComerica Bank in downtown Pleasanton.The winning poem will be displayedadjacent to the corresponding piece of artand a $50 prize will be given to the bestpoem in the Junior Poet category. Thiscontest is sponsored by The PleasantonCultural Arts Council, in cooperationwith The Pleasanton Arts League. Forinformation on how to register for thecontest and contest details, please go towww.pleasantonarts.org.Duck Stamp Contest, Artists from aroundthe country are invited to submit theiroriginal work to the 2011 California DuckStamp contest. The California Departmentof Fish and Game (DFG) will be acceptingsubmissions from March 1 through April30 at 4 p.m. The contest is open to any artistwho is 18 years of age or older as of March1, 2011. The picture must depict a pair(male and female) of the species selectedby the California Fish and Game Commission,which this year is the Barrow'sGoldeneye (Bucephala islandica). Formsand the official rules are available onlineat www.dfg.ca.gov/duckstamp.Science on Saturday, February 5, ProtonTherapy for Cancer, 9:30 a.m.and 11:15 a.m. Bankhead Theater,2400 First St., downtown Livermore.Presented by the Lawrence LivermoreNational Laboratory. www.livermoreperformingarts.orgor 925-373-6800.6 th Annual Claws for Paws crab feedfund-raiser dinner and Auction is set forFeb. 5, 2011 benefits Tri-Valley AnimalRescue. 6-10pmall the crab that youcan eat plus Caesar Salad, pasta, Frenchbread, dessert and coffee/tea. A no hostbar will be available. Shannon Center,11600 Shannon Avenue, Dublin. Dinnertickets are $50 until tickets sell out. Dinnertickets may be ordered online at www.tvar.org, through PayPal or by mailing acheck to TVAR, P. O. 11143, Pleasanton,CA 94588. For more information aboutTVAR, e-mail contact@tvar.org, or callthe message line at 925-803-7043. VisitTVAR on the web at TVAR.org.Ragin' Cajun, dinner, dance and auctionon Fri., Feb. 11 from 6:30 to 11p.m. benefit for Sandra J. Wing HealingTherapies Foundation. Palm Event Centerin Pleasanton. Proceeds will go towardsproviding funds to cancer patients sothat they can experience the immediatebenefit of complementary therapies tohelp alleviate the side effects caused byradiation and chemotherapy. Sponsors andvolunteers are sought. For more informationabout becoming a sponsor, pleaseask for Ken Perine at 925-292-5936. Formore information about the organizationor to attend the event, call the Foundationat 866-862-7270 or go online to www.HealingTherapiesFoundation.org. Ticketsare $75 per person. 1-866-862-7270.Science on Saturday, February 12, It’sGust about Time: Harnessing the Wind,9:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. at the BankheadTheater, 2400 First St., downtownLivermore. Presented by the LawrenceLivermore National Laboratory. Informationat www.livermoreperformingarts.orgor 925-373-6800.Wines and Valentines Dinner, 6 p.m.,Saturday, February 12, at The FarmerRestaurant in the historic PleasantonHotel. Presented by Museum on Main,gourmet dinner paired with appropriatevalley wines. Voice and two-bit auctions.Tickets, $85 each, are availableat the Museum on Main. For tickets ormore information phone the museum at925.462.2766 or visit the website: www.museumonmain.orgRomance Wine and Chocolate Event,February 13, Wente Vineyards. Sit downand enjoy five chocolate and wine pairingsprepared and selected by WenteVineyards. Learn how chocolate andwine can combine and create a romanticand sensual experience. 1 p.m. or 4 p.m.Wine club members $30, guests $35. Call925-456-2405 to purchase tickets.Museum on Main, 2011 Ed Kinney LectureSeries. Wednesday, February, 16, 7p.m., Meet President and Mrs. Lincoln.Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 RailroadAve., Pleasanton. No reservations arerequired. Tickets are available at the dooron a first come first served basis. TheFirehouse Arts Center is located at 4444Railroad Avenue, Pleasanton. Ticketsare $10 general admission, $5 membersand seniors, $3 students/teachers withID. Information, contact Jennifer Amiel,Director of Education at (925) 462-2766or education@museumonmain.org.A Toast to Heroes: A Literary Eveningon the Myth & Reality of the Hero &the Un-hero. Fri., Feb. 18, 8 to 10 p.m.Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 RailroadAve., Pleasanton. Poet Laureate DeborahGrossman and Livermore Poet LaureateCher Wollard will co-host the first LiteraryEvening at the new Firehouse Center. NarratorRobert Eastwood, award-winningpoet, author and artist from San Ramon,will weave his perspective on the mythologyof the heroic and un-heroic with otherinvited Bay Area writers. $5, students free.www.ci.pleasanton.ca.usGibsonHouse Mystery Performers present“Shadow of a Murder” an interactiveMystery Dinner Theatre in The FarmerRestaurant at the historic PleasantonHotel. Fri., Feb. 25. 1930’s-40’s attirewelcome. 3-course gourmet meal andfarcical mystery play, all for $64 perSleuth, tax & gratuity included. Seatingbegins at 7:00pm. The Farmer Restaurant,at the Pleasanton Hotel, 855 Main Street,downtown Pleasanton. Reservations requiredat (925) 399-6690, ext. 17. www.PleasantonHotel.comLa Semana Cubana/Cuban Week 2011Yemaya: Embracing the Earth, Feb.22-25, Las Positas College, 3000 CampusHill Dr., Livermore. Events are inthe evening. Feb. 22: Meet the Artists;Exhibit: Filling the Space/Llenando elEspacio; Artist in Residence: AlnolkysTurro and Photography by Eira Arrate;Batá Music: Somos 3 Jesús Díaz, SandyPérez and Eric Barbería. Wed., Feb. 23:Cuban Words/Palabras Cubanas, ThePoetry of Nicolás Guillén preformed byJoel and Ana María Oliver; Cuban AuthorOdette Alonso Yodu Streaming Livefrom Mexico City via Webcam. Thurs.,Feb. 24: Cuba Café/ Café Cuba: AbelMagritte: Cuban Singer and Song WriterLara Greene: Presentation: The Sound ofSon; Rick Moniz and Catherine Suárez:Presentation: Cuba Through My Eyes.Fri., Feb. 25: Discussion Panel: FeminineVoices/ Voces Femeninas followed byCuban Guateque/ Guateque Cubano, TríoPasión Habanera, Dance Performance byYussef Breffe Cuban Dance Instructorand Choreographer For more informationplease visit our web site lasemanacubana.org, the Las Positas College home pagelaspositascollege.edu or call CatherineSuárez at (925)424-1212.Science on Saturday, February 19,Withstanding Climate Change: You CanChange the World, 9:30 a.m. and 11:15a.m. at the Bankhead Theater, 2400 FirstSt., downtown Livermore. Presented bythe Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.www.livermoreperformingarts.orgor 925-373-6800.48th Annual Coin Show and Sale, hostedby Livermore Valley Coin Club on SundayMarch 6, 2011, from 10 am to 5 pm. Theshow will be held at the Elks Lodge, 940Larkspur Drive Springtown in Livermore.Admission is free. For further informationplease call Stephen Kramer at (925)980-9307.LIVERMORE READSLivermore Reads, February 5, 10:30am.Quakes and Shakes for Kids. Become ajunior seismologist and explore the insideand outside of our planet, find out whatinstruments are used to measure earthquakes,and piece together a proper safetykit to make sure you’re prepared—notscared—the next time the ground starts toquake and shake! Presented by the LawrenceHall of Science. Livermore ReadsTogether – 1906: A Novel is sponsoredby The Friends of the Livermore Library.For additional events check the library’swebsite at www.livermore.lib.ca.us..Livermore Reads, February 10, 7pm. AreYou Ready? How to Survive the Big One.Find out all you need to know to survivethe next Big Quake, and other disasters.Genevieve Pastor-Cohen, certified emergencymanager, will give an overview ofthe hazards faced by the Livermore area,emphasizing the four pillars of preparedness:making a kit and a plan, plus beinginformed and involved. Livermore ReadsTogether – 1906: A Novel is sponsored byThe Friends of the Livermore Library.For additional events check the library’swebsite at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.Livermore Reads, February 12, 10:30am.Readers’ Theater for Children of LizzieNewton and the San Francisco Earthquake.Under the general direction ofDr. Philip Manwell, Dean, students fromthe Arts and Communication Division atLas Positas College will offer a specialpresentation of the children’s book LizzieNewton and the San Francisco Earthquake,the story of ten-year-old LizzieNewton, who having helped take hergrandmother to the hospital after the 1906San Francisco earthquake, sets off on herown to find her parents. Come experiencethe earthquake from a child’s perspective.Livermore Reads Together – 1906:A Novel is sponsored by The Friends ofthe Livermore Library. For additionalevents check the library’s website at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.Livermore Reads, February 13, 2pm.Frisky Frolics: Tin Pan Alley Troubadours.With a ukulele-driven programof such Tin Pan Alley-era classics as“Cake Eatin’ Man” and “My CanaryHas Circles Under His Eyes,” the FriskyFrolics quintet revels in the outdated,dusty gems from our grandparents’ 78rpm record collections. Livermore ReadsTogether – 1906: A Novel is sponsored byThe Friends of the Livermore Library.For additional events check the library’swebsite at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.Livermore Reads, February 17, 7pm.A Dramatic Reading from 1906: ANovel. A cast of volunteer readers from(continued on page 10)

10 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 Communityevents(continued from page 9)Shakespeare’s Associates will bring JamesDalessandro’s book 1906 to life with adramatic reading. With an introductionby Dr. Philip Manwell, the featured selectionswill provide a glimpse of 1906San Francisco— part Paris, part DodgeCity— corruption, bravery, a journalist,a runaway, a Chinese slave girl ... andEnrico Caruso! Livermore Reads Together– 1906: A Novel is sponsored by TheFriends of the Livermore Library. For additionalevents check the library’s websiteat www.livermore.lib.ca.us.Livermore Reads, February 19, 12 noon,Vine Cinema. Classic Movie Screening– San Francisco. View a special showingof the classic 1936 movie San Franciscostarring Clark Gable, Jeanette MacDonald,and Spencer Tracy, nominated for bestactor. Livermore Reads Together – 1906:A Novel is sponsored by The Friends ofthe Livermore Library. For additionalevents check the library’s website at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.Livermore Reads, February 20, 2pm. The1906 Earthquake: Lessons Learned,Lessons Forgotten, and Managing EarthquakeRisk. The 1906 earthquake markedthe birth of modern earthquake science.For the first time, the effects of a majorseismic event were systematically investigatedand documented. As earthquakesciences evolves, reanalysis of the 1906quake yields new insights. Mary LouZoback, former Chief Scientist of the USGeological Survey, will bring us up to dateon what we’ve learned. Livermore ReadsTogether – 1906: A Novel is sponsored byThe Friends of the Livermore Library.For additional events check the library’swebsite at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.Livermore Reads, February 22, 7pm.San Francisco’s Lost Landmarks withAuthor James Smith. San Francisco’searthquakes, 1906 and prior, willbe presented in an illustrated discussionof how the city earned its seal and whatreally happened.Livermore Reads, February 24, 7pm. TheMiles Brothers: Before and After theEarthquake. David Kiehn, Historian ofthe Niles Essanay Silent Film Museumwill show short films and photographs bythe Miles Brothers, pioneers in Americancinema, including their 1906 film A TripDown Market Street, an historic 13-minutejourney shot just days before the earthquake.Livermore Reads Together – 1906:A Novel is sponsored by The Friends ofthe Livermore Library. For additionalevents check the library’s website at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.Livermore Reads, February 26, 1:30am.Aftershock!: Teens Prepare for DisasterAssistance. At Aftershock!, teens willlearn first aid for earthquake and firedisasters through a special AmericanRed Cross training course designed forteens. Other topics include first responsetopics and techniques, and a look at teenvolunteer opportunities with the AmericanRed Cross.Livermore Reads, February 26, 2pm. JackLondon: Eyewitness to the Great Quake.Jack London: Eyewitness to the GreatQuake is a dynamic portrait of Californiathrough the eyes of the renowned author,adventurer and social crusader, JackLondon, as performed by Michael Oakes,artistic director of Live Oakes EducationalTheater. Follow London as he journeyedthroughout the region documenting thedevastation of the 1906 earthquake –oneof the most articulate of the eyewitness accounts.Livermore Reads Together – 1906:A Novel is sponsored by The Friends ofthe Livermore Library. For additionalevents check the library’s website at www.livermore.lib.ca.us.Patricia KoningSpanish-speaking children areoften encouraged to learn English,but at Junction Avenue K-8 School,those students’ language skills andheritage are cause for celebration.Every Thursday after school, about40 students can be found singing,dancing, making crafts, and havingfun—all in Spanish.Parent Alicia Calonico startedthe school’s Hispanic Club inJanuary, an offshoot of MadresHispanas, the Hispanic moms’ clubthat she started eight years ago. “Iwant these children to understandand be proud of their roots,” shesays.She conducts the programentirely in Spanish. The club isopen to any Junction student. Theschool offers dual immersion (DI),in which students receive all classroominstruction in Spanish for50% of the time and in English forthe other 50%. Calonico, a nativeof Mexico, moved her two childrenfrom Jackson Avenue ElementarySchool to Junction last year for theDI program.The program currently goesthrough fourth grade. However,Junction lead DI teacher JenniferHayes says the school will addfifth grade next year and hopes toextend into middle school in futureyears. The program has provenvery successful—DI kindergartenteacher Victoria Anderson recentlyreceived the Alameda CountySchools Bilingual/TW ImmersionTeacher of the Year Award.Calonico moved to the UnitedStates in 2001 after attendinggraduate school in England. “I waslooking for a job. I realized thatone of the places where Americanwomen look for contacts is moms’clubs,” she says. “There were nomoms’ clubs aimed at Hispanicwomen in the Tri-Valley.”In 2003, she started Madres Hispanas.While language is not a barrierfor Calonico, she learned thatmany women with limited Englishskills feel isolated and have difficultymeeting new people.“Where I grew up, there reallyisn’t a need for moms’ clubs,” shesays. “In Mexico, especially in themore rural areas, extended familiesJunction Avenue K-8 SchoolStarts Hispanic ClubAlicia Calonico is reading to the children in the Hispanic Club.live near each other, even in thesame house, and communities tendto be very tight-knit.”Over the years, more than 30women have participated. Thegroup meets once a month inlibraries, parks, and at members’houses. With their children, themoms celebrate traditional Mexicanholidays like Day of the Deadand Las Posadas, and practicetraditional Mexican songs, dances,cooking, and other customs. Thechildren take part in age-appropriategroup activities. The mothershave a chance to socialize.Calonico’s younger child startedkindergarten this school year, soshe decided it was time to expandMadres Hispanas. “My dream isto open a Hispanic Cultural Centerthat will serve the entire Tri-Valleycommunity,” she says. “I am startingat Junction, so people get toknow me and I get to know them.I can learn what the communitylikes, wants, and needs in the wayof culture, although I already havea vision on some of those. At thesame time I am in the process ofopening a non-profit so I can obtainfunding for my Hispanic culturalactivities.”Each week in Junction’s HispanicClub, Calonico and otherparent volunteers will lead thestudents in traditional handcraftsand Mexican songs, dances, andgames. The club will host a monthlyspecial guest, such as dancers,musicians, community members,and local middle and high schoolstudents. There will also be generalenrichment activities, like hands-on science, gardening, writing, andcommunity service.“We will also learn about otherHispanic cultures and other worldcultures,” says Calonico. Herhusband, a physicist at LawrenceLivermore National Laboratory, isfrom Ireland.Junction’s DI program is currentlyin open enrollment. Openhouse with classroom tours will beheld on Feb. 15 at 9 am, Feb. 16at 6 pm, and Feb. 23 at 9 am. Formore information visit http://jams.schoolloop.com/DI or contactHayes at 606-4720 x6332.Information on Madres Hispanasis available on twitter (http://twitter.com/madreshispanas) or bycontacting Calonico at acalonico@yahoo.com.

CommunityTHE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 11Airman Cheston Biernacki graduated from basic military training at LacklandAir Force Base on 28 December 2010. He completed an intensive, 8½ weekprogram in military discipline and studies, Air Force Core Values, physical fitnessand basic warfare principles and skills. He is currently attending specializedEngineering and Equipment training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri. Uponcompletion, he will report to his first assignment with the Pacific Air Forces,Misawa AB, Japan. Cheston is the son of Barbara and Mark Biernacki, formerlyof Livermore. He attended Joe Mitchell School K thru 5 th grade before the familyrelocated to Oakley in 2000.Cheston carries on a proud family tradition of service to country from thosebefore him- Brother Joseph Biernacki: USAF, Dad Mark Biernacki: USAF ret,Uncle John Biernacki: USN, Grandfathers Joe Luby: USN ret, Chester Biernacki:USN ret, and Bob Certain: USA.Ranked HighThe financial-services firm Edward Jones ranked No. 11 on FORTUNEmagazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For 2011" list in its 12th appearanceon the prestigious list, according to Edward Jones financial advisors inthe Livermore area.Edward Jones also ranked No. 2 for large-sized companies and was thehighest ranking financial-services firm.Edward Jones' 12 FORTUNE rankings include top 10 finishes for eightyears and consecutive No. 1 rankings in 2002 and 2003 and consecutive No. 2rankings in 2009 and 2010. The full list and related stories appear in the Feb. 7issue of FORTUNE and now at www.fortune.com/bestcompanies.For more information about Edward Jones in the Livermore area, please goto www.edwardjones.comDistressed Property ExpertIvy LoGerfo of RE/MAX Accord in Livermore has earned the prestigiousCertified Distressed Property Expert ® (CDPE) designation, having completedextensive training in foreclosure avoidance, with a particular emphasis on shortsales. At a time when millions of homeowners are struggling with the possibilityof foreclosure, the skills and education amassed by LoGerfo will help benefitLivermore area residents and communities.Short sales allow the distressed homeowner to repay the mortgage at the pricethat the home sells for, even if it is lower than what is owed on the property.With plummeting property values, this can save many people from foreclosureand even bankruptcy. More and more lenders are willing to consider short salesbecause they are much less costly than foreclosures.“The CDPE designation has been invaluable as I work with homeownersand lenders on complicated short sales,” said LoGerfo. “It is so rewarding tobe able to help families save their homes from foreclosure.”Alex Charfen, co-founder and CEO of the Distressed Property Institute inAustin, Texas, said that agents such as Ivy LoGerfo with the CDPE Designationhave valuable perspective on the market, and training in short sales that canoffer homeowners real alternatives to foreclosure, which can be devastatingto credit ratings.“Our goal is to help as many homeowners as possible, by educating asmany real estate professionals as possible,” Charfen said. “Ivy LoGerfo hasdemonstrated a commitment to struggling homeowners, a commitment that canprovide much-needed stabilization to the community.”Red Cross Teams Up with LivermoreChamber of CommercePictured are (from left) Justin Mueller, Manager, Donor Recruitment,American Red Cross, Northern California Blood Services Region;Thomas Petty, Board of Directors, Livermore Chamber of Commerce andAmerican Red Cross, Northern California Blood Services Region; andJay Winkenbach, CEO, American Red Cross, Northern California BloodServices Region. American Red Cross PhotoThe American Red CrossNorthern California Blood ServicesRegion has become a sponsororganization for the LivermoreChamber of Commerce.The Red Cross has a history ofworking with many different organizationsin Livermore – collectingblood at mobile blood drives in thecity for more than 25 years.The Red Cross does not have abuilding in Livermore; instead, theyregularly bring staff and equipmentinto businesses, schools, churchesand community facilities to holdblood drives. They also bring theRed Cross bloodmobile to collectblood when an indoor location isnot available.“The Red Cross is proud of itslong standing relationships withnumerous partners in Livermore,”Jay Winkenbach, CEO of theAmerican Red Cross NorthernCalifornia Blood Services Regionsaid. “We are joining the Chamberof Commerce because we considerourselves to be part of thecommunity. We want to activelyparticipate with the Chamber andits members, showing our supportfor the city in return for the tremendoussupport we have receivedfrom Livermore.”Organizations in Livermoresponsored 40 blood drives in 2010,providing more than 2,000 units(a unit is about a pint) of blood.Each unit can be separated intothree components – red blood cells,platelets and plasma. That meansmore than 6,000 people may havebeen helped through this life-savingact.“The Red Cross will be a greatpartner.” Dale Eldridge Kaye,President and CEO of the LivermoreChamber of Commerce,said. “We share a similar goal – thequest for constant community betterment.”The Red Cross holds very productiveNorthern California blooddrives at Granada High School,Lawrence Livermore NationalLaboratories (LLNL) and theLivermore Community drive.In March 2009, 172 units ofblood were collected at GranadaHigh School, the largest amount ofblood collected at a one day highschool blood drive in the region inmore than ten years.In December 2009, the LivermoreCommunity blood drive,organized by local resident andbusinessman Thomas Petty, inpartnership with the Red Cross,reached a major milestone, collectingits 2,000th unit of blood.Last June, the Red Cross presentedPetty with the President’s VolunteerService Award, a nationalhonor offered in recognition of hisvolunteer service.The next Livermore Communityblood drive will be heldon February 18 from 1 p.m. to 7p.m. at the Asbury United MethodistChurch, 4743 East Avenue.To make an appointment, visitredcrossblood.org (enter sponsorcode: Asbury925) or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).The Red Cross estimates thatemployees at LLNL have donatedmore than 18,000 units of bloodover the last 25 years, potentiallyhelping to save up to 54,000 lives.It is believed to be the region’slargest corporate blood drive sponsorand the only business to holdfour-day blood drives in NorthernCalifornia with the Red Cross.Fifteen to 25 retired employeesalso volunteer at these drives– registering donors and servingrefreshments.Blood is often needed for accidentvictims, cancer patients,newborn babies, or their mothers,burn victims and those receivingan organ transplant.The Red Cross welcomes callsfrom local businesses and serviceorganizations who wish to hold ablood drive in the near future.

12 THE INDEPENDENT • THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2011 Community(Organizations wishing to run notices inBulletin Board, send information to PO Box1198, Livermore, CA 94551, in care of BulletinBoard. Include name of organization, meetingdate, time, place and theme or subject. Phonenumber and contact person should also beincluded. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday.)Livermore High Cowboy BoostersRound-up, dinner, dance, auction benefitingLivermore High School athletics. Sat., March12, 6 to 11 p.m. Shrine Event Center, 170Lindbergh Ave., Livermore. Tri-tip dinner withall the fixings, silent, live, dessert, themed basketsauctions, raffles and drawings. Dancing.Tickets $45 per person, $30 for LHS staff andcoaches; table of 8 $360 with $45 donated tosport of choice. Information email coferhome@aol.com. LHS Cowboy Boosters, 600 MapleSt., Livermore, CA 94550.Livermore Peripheral Neuropathy SupportGroup's next meeting will be Tuesday,Feb. 22 at 10 a.m. The meeting place is HeritageEstates Retirement Community, 900 E. StanleyBlvd. in the second floor conference room. Allare welcome. Contact Ann Laye @ 443-4098for further information.Livermore Amador Valley Garden Clubwill meet Thursday, February 10 at the AlisalElementary School multipurpose room, 1454Santa Rita Rd., Pleasanton, at 7pm. Jolene Adams,a Master Rosarian and VP of the AmericanRose Society will speak about the history ofroses in Livermore. Visitors welcome. For moreinformation visit www.lavgc.orgWines and Valentines Dinner starting at6 p.m., Saturday, February 12, at The FarmerRestaurant in the historic Pleasanton Hotel.Offered by the Museum on Main. Voice auctionand a e “two-bit” auction. Tickets, $85each, are available at the Museum on Main.For tickets or more information phone themuseum at 925.462.2766 or visit the website:www.museumonmain.org The Museum onMain is located at 603 Main Street, Pleasanton.The historic Pleasanton Hotel is located at 855Main Street, Pleasanton.NARFE (Livermore Chapter 397 ofthe National Active and Retired FederalEmployees) association luncheon and meetingon Thursday, February 10, at Emil Villa’sRestaurant, 3064 Pacific Avenue in Livermore.Potential and active NARFE members areinvited to attend. The no host luncheon beginsat 11:30 AM and the business meeting willcommence at 1 PM. Additional information,directions, or transportation to the meeting,please call 925-426-7800 for Elaine. Membersare reminded to participate in the recyclingfund-raiser and should call Walt Weidman at925-447-5030 to arrange for pick up. Additionalrecycling information is also available in theNARFE newsletter.Valley Spokesmen Bicycle Touring Club,Sat., Feb. 5, 27 miles Feather Pedals trainingride for the Cinderella, meet 9:30 a.m. atAlamo Plaza, Rebecca Wood, 577-3842. Sun.,Feb. 6, 45 miles Shannon Center to Sunol andCalaveras Rd., meet 9:30 a.m., Heidi Fraser,451-1430. Wed., Feb. 9, 36 miles, PleasantonRidge staging area to Pleasanton Ridge parkinglot, meet 10 a.m., Gail Blanco, 872-1001.Anyone planning to go on a ride is asked tocall the leader for details on where to meetand what to bring.Leslie Baker book signing, Feb. 11, 8:30a.m. to 3 p.m. Association of Play TherapyConference, University of Phoenix's LivermoreLearning Center, 2481 Constitution Dr., Livermore.Baker, a resident of Pleasanton, will beavailable to sign copies of her Children's book,Healing Feelings: A Healing Story for ChildrenCoping with a Grownup’s Mental Illness.Free income tax help, Livermore, AARPvolunteer preparers. Monday, Feb. 7-April 18,noon-4 p.m. Robert Livermore CommunityCenter, 4444 East Ave., Livermore, by appointment,373-5760. Thursday and Friday, Feb.3-April 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Civic Center Library,1188 So, Livermore Avenue, first come, firstserved. Sat., Feb. 5-April 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.Robert Livermore Community Center, 4444east Ave., first come, first served. Bring W2, all1099 forms, copy of previous year's tax return,and other important documents.Armchair Travelers will take place at theLivermore Civic Center Library on Thurs., Feb.10, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. James Koponenwill show digital photographs of his trip toTaiwan. Adults are invited to this free programon the second Thursday of each month in theCommunity Meeting Rooms of the CivicCenter Library, 1188 S. Livermore Avenue,Livermore. For additional information pleasecall 925 373-5500.Livermore-Amador GenealogicalSociety, meeting 7:30 p.m. Tues., Feb. 8at Congregation Beth Emek, 3400 NevadaCourt, Pleasanton. Guest speakers are LindaDriver (retired library director and softwareengineer ) and Walt Crawford (internationallyrecognized writer and speaker). They willdiscuss researching and publishing a book onthe heritage Driver and Cockerton families ofthe Altamonts. www.L-AGS.org/maps/Pls-BethEmek.html. For additional informationcontact: Richard Finn, Program Chairperson,at program@L-AGS.org.Pleasantonians 4 Peace, candlelight Vigilin front of the Museum on Main, 603 MainStreet, downtown Pleasanton, 7 p.m. Wed.,February 9. Participants will reflect on thehuman and monetary costs of the war, honorveterans who have sacrificed, and visualizeways of moving beyond this conflict to a morepeaceful world. Peaceful War Protest on thefourth Wednesday of the month, February 23,between 5 - 6 at the corners of First and NealStreets. Please join us if you can. Questions??Call Cathe Norman at (925) 462-7495; MattSullivan at mjs7882@gmail.com; or kdowding@pacbell.net.www.Pleasantonians4Peace.org.Share the Gift of Reading & Writing:New tutor training and orientation, 10 a.m.to 2 p.m. Sat., Feb. 5 at the Pleasanton Library,400 Old Bernal Ave. The Pleasanton PublicLibrary needs adult volunteers to providefree tutoring to adults who want to improvereading, writing, and English speaking skills.Adults come to the library’s literacy program– Project Read- with a variety of goals. Theywant to learn to read to their children, help theirchildren with homework or get a job. Adultscan improve their literacy skills when theyare given encouragement, guidance and appropriatematerials. Tutors have flexible hours,volunteer once a week and we supply all thefree materials. Tutor qualifications are: at least18 years old, average reading and writing skills,interest in helping another adult. No teachingexperience needed. Please call to register forthe Project Read orientation. For more information,email pjohnson@ci.pleasanton.ca.usor call Penny Johnson, 931-3405.Le Tableau Magnifique, LivermoreSchool of Dance, will be performing “Variationsin Motion” at The Bankhead Theater onSaturday, March 5, 2011, with performances at2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The performances area benefit for The Diabetic Youth Foundationand a portion of the proceeds will be given tothe organization. The Company will presentfive different programs starting with a fulllengthproduction of the story ballet, Coppelia.Bankhead Theater, 2400 First St., Livermore.Tickets or information at (925) 373-6800 or viatheir website at www.livermoreperformingarts.org. Tickets are $18, $20, and $24. There willbe a dessert reception in the lobby followingeach performance.Livermore Community Blood Drive:Friday, February 18, 1-7 p.m., Asbury UnitedMethodist Church, 4743 East Avenue. Everyday, Bay Area hospitals need hundreds of unitsof blood to keep sick and injured patients alive.There is no substitute for blood, and it can onlybe replaced by blood donations. Please registerat www.redcrossblood.org and use Asbury925as the Sponsor Code, or call Thomas Petty at925-980-8164.Widowed Men and Women of NorthernCA., general meeting Wed., Feb. 9, 1 p.m. DublinLibrary. Mexican brunch in Pleasanton, Feb.6, 11 a.m., RSVP by Feb. 4 to Hilda, 398-8808.Bunco in Pleasanton, Feb. 10, 1 p.m., RSVPby Feb. 8 to Eleanor, 846-2728. Champagnebrunch in San Ramon, Feb. 13, 11:45 p.m.,RSVP by Feb. 10 to Marsha, 355-0757. Happyhour in Pleasanton, Feb. 17, 5 p.m., RSVP byFeb. 15 to Marge, 828-5124. Crab feed dinnerin Oakland, Feb. 18, 6:30 p.m., RSVP by Feb.11 to Gino, 243-1281 (prepaid reservationsonly). Friendly bridge, Feb. 19, 1 p.m. RSVPby Feb. 15 to Marsha, 830-8483. Lunch inPleasanton, Feb. 21, 11:30 a.m., RSVP byFeb. 19 to Roselyn, 999-9936. Happy hour inCastro Valley, Feb. 24, 4 p.m., RSVP by Feb.22 to Vee, 510-782-4169. Birthday dinner inPleasanton, Feb. 26, 5 p.m., RSVP by Feb.22 to Anne, 846-3736. Lunch and musicalperformance in Pleasanton, March 13, 11:50a.m. lunch, 2 p.m. performance of Tom Rigny'sFlambeau at the Firehouse Arts Center, RSVPto Athene ASAP, 846-0111.Find a Treasure, American Cancer SocietyDiscovery Shop in Pleasanton is requestingthe donation of costume or precious jewelryfor its annual jewelry event, “Find a Treasure:on March 11 and 12. Donations are acceptedat the shop during open hours: Monday toFriday 10-6, Saturday 10-5, Sunday 12-5.The Discovery Shop is located in the MissionPlaza Shopping Center at 1987A Santa RitaRoad, Pleasanton. Contact Monda Wiseman,Mgr. at (925) 462-7374 for more information.All proceeds benefit the American CancerSociety’s programs of research, education,service and advocacy.Rummage Sale, First Presbyterian Churchannual event. Feb. 4 and 5 (Fri. & Sat.) 9 a.m.to 3:30 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. onSaturday. 451 South K St., Livermore.Fundraiser at Panama Red, downtownLivermore, on February 4 and February 5.Handcrafted jewelry from Costa Rica. Its 100%handcrafted, Fair Trade, and environmentallystable because the wood is obtained throughreforestation and government programs. Thereare four types of precious woods: purple heart,rosewood, rum rum, and cortex.Livermore Adult Community Educationis currently accepting enrollment for the followingclasses; SAT/PSAT Preparation, English asa Second Language, GED, Adult High SchoolDiploma, CAHSEE Preparation, MicrosoftOffice 2007, Phlebotomy, Clinical MedicalAssistant, Pharmacy Technician, ClinicalNursing Asst., Hemodialysys Tech., PhysicalTherapy Aide, Sterile Processing Tech., EstatePlanning, Retirement Planning, CPR/First Aid,Art Classes and Health & Fitness Classes. Call925-606-4722 for more information or visit usat www.livermoreadulted.org.San Ramon Valley Newcomers Clubinvites new or long-time residents to its monthlyluncheon on February 17 at Blackhawk Grille,3450 Blackhawk Plaza Cir., Blackhawk. 11:30- 2pm. Cost is $21. Speaker will be TerryMonday, Volunteer Program Mgr. for Medshare,which recovers & distributes surplusmedical supplies. Call Susan, 925-718-5214,for reservations & information.Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance(DBSA) Pleasanton, meets Wednesdays7:15 to 8:45 p.m. St. Clare's Episcopal Church,3350 Hopyard Rd., Pleasanton (not affiliatedwith the church. Information at www.dbsalliance.org/pleasantonor contact chapter leader,Al Pereira, 462-6415.Tri-Valley Animal Rescue’s 6 th AnnualClaws for Paws crabfeed fundraiser dinnerand auction is set for Feb. 5, 2011, 6 to 10p.m. Shannon Center, 11600 Shannon Avenue,Dublin. All the crab that you can eat plusCaesar Salad, pasta, French bread, dessert andcoffee/tea. A no host bar will be available. Inaddition to dinner, there will be raffle baskets,silent auction items, along with a Kindle raffle.Dinner tickets are $45 prior to 1/15/11 and $50thereafter until tickets sell out. Dinner ticketsmay be ordered online at www.tvar.org, throughPayPal or by mailing a check to TVAR, P. O.11143, Pleasanton, CA 94588. For more informationabout TVAR, e-mail contact@tvar.org,or call the message line at 925-803-7043. VisitTVAR on the web at TVAR.org.Scholarship applications, The applicationsfor Livermore students for college scholarshipsfrom the Pedrozzi Foundation are nowavailable online at www.pedrozzifoundation.org. The deadline for finalizing all applicationswill be March 1, 2010 by 5:00 pm. This is alsothe deadline for receipt of all sealed, officialtranscripts. The Pedrozzi Scholarship Foundationwill be awarding many annual and multipleyear scholarships to graduates of the LivermoreValley Joint Unified School District.Retired Educators’ Scholarship: Up tosix scholarships, each worth $1,500.00, areoffered by the Tri-Valley Retired EducatorsScholarship Foundation. The awards are offeredto high-school graduating seniors andcollege/university students. All applicants mustbe planning a career in education. Requirementsare: a) applicants must be residents of theLivermore, Pleasanton, Dublin or Sunol area, b)high school applicants must be seniors planningto attend a four-year college in fall, 2011, c)community college applicants must be qualifiedto transfer as juniors to a four-year institutionin fall, 2011, d) 4-year college applicants mustbe sophomores who will continue as juniorsin fall, 2011. Questions about the scholarshipshould be sent to greegno@pacbell.net or call925-443-6097. Application packets for thescholarships can be downloaded at the retirededucators’ website www.div85.calrta.org/. Applicationdeadline is March 7, 2011.City of Pleasanton nature programs:Wondrous Universe Series, Winter Skies,Sat., Feb. 5, 2011, 7:30 to 9 p.m. Alviso AdobeCommunity Park, 3465 Old Foothill Road. Howbig is our galaxy? How far is the nearest star?How was our solar system made? Explore theuniverse as we try to answer these questions andmore. Games and hands-on activities will aid usas we search for the answers. Then, if the skiesare willing, we’ll take a peek at the wondersabove through a telescope. For all ages. Fee:$9 for residents/$12 for non-residents. 2ndAnnual California Newt Festival, AugustinBernal Park, Sat., Feb. 12, 2011, 9 to 10 a.m.Learn about the natural history of amphibians,particularly the spectacular California Newtand its interesting cycle of life. In the heat ofthe summer they burrow deep into the earth tostay cool, and come out after the first rain of theseason to make the long trek to their ancestralbreeding ponds. Participants will help take acount of newts as part of an annual survey onthis unique adventure for all ages. Fee: $9 forresidents/$12 for non-residents. Call (925)931-5340 for information or to register, orregister online at www.ci.pleasanton.ca.us/services/recreation.html.Disability Action Network (DAN) meeting,second Thursday of each month at 2:00pm, Livermore CRIL office, 3311 Pacific Ave.,Livermore. The Disability Action Network isa group of people with all kinds of disabilitieswho are working together to make changes inthe community. The group works on health care,housing, access, attendant programs, transportation,and other issues affecting people withdisabilities. For more information, please callJessica Lehman at (510) 881-5743 x5937.Pleasanton Newcomers Club, open tonew and established residents of the Tri-Valley.Activities include a coffee on the firstWednesday of the month, a luncheon on thesecond Wednesday of the month, bunco, MahJongg, bridge, walking and hiking groups,family activities and monthly adult socials.Information, call 215-8405 or visit www.PleasantonNewcomers.com.Good News Bears, nonprofit with a missionto distribute stuffed animals to socialservices, emergency services, medical facilitiesand anyone who needs a hug. Based inLivermore, the group reaches around the BayArea and the world. Volunteers needed to holdcollections of gently used teddy bears and otherstuffed animals, assist with fund-raising anddeliver the animals to organizations supportedby the group. Meetings 2nd Thursday of themonth, 6:30 p.m. at the Livermore Police Station.Log on to www.goodnewsbears.org or call373-7982 for more information.RELIGIONFirst Church of Christ, Scientist, Livermore,has services at 10 a.m. every Sunday.Sunday School for students (ages 3-20) is heldat 10 a.m. every Sunday. The church and readingroom are located at Third and N Streets. TheReading Room, which is open to the public,features books, CDs and magazines for sale.For information, call (925) 447-2946.Faith Chapel Assembly of God, 6656Alisal St., Pleasanton, Sunday School for allages 9:30 a.m., Worship 10:30 a.m., Children’sChurch 11:15 a.m. Women's Bible studyWednesdays at 10 a.m. Please call office at846-8650 for weekly programs.Our Savior Lutheran Ministries, 1385S. Livermore Avenue, Livermore. Sundayworship at 9 a.m.; Sunday School and AdultBible Study at 10:30 a.m.; contemporaryservice 11 a.m. (Connected). For information,call 925-447-1246.St. Matthew's Baptist Church, 1239North Livermore Ave., Livermore. Serviceson Sunday at 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. Adult Sundayschool 9:30 a.m., Children's Sunday school at9:30 a.m. Prayer each Wednesday at 7 p.m. followedby Bible study at 7:30 p.m. 449-3824.United Christian Church, celebrating50 years in the Tri-Valley. 1886 College Ave.at M St., Livermore; worships on Sundaymorning at 10:30 a.m. Children’s program onSunday morning and first Fridays. The communityis welcome. United CC is an Open andAffirming ministry. Call 449-6820 for moreinformation.Bible Study, offered Wednesdays, 7:30to 8:30 PM at the Church of Jesus Christ ofLatter-day Saints, 6100 Paseo Santa Cruz,Pleasanton. Refreshments served at no cost.925-305-9468.Trinity, 557 Olivina Ave., Livermore.Services on Sunday at 8:30, 11 a.m. and 6p.m. with Sunday school or Bible study forall ages at 9:45 a.m. Bible study for adultsand activities for all ages on Wednesdays at6:45 p.m. 447-1848.Granada Baptist Church, 945 ConcannonBlvd., Livermore. Services: Sundayschool 9:45 a.m., worship 11 a.m., TuesdayBible study, 10 a.m. to noon. All are welcome.1-888-805-7151.Community Bible Study Class, book ofLuke will be the topic of study in Pleasanton atValley Bible Church. CBS is a non-denominationalBible study ministry open to all women,with a special children's program for ages 0-5years old. The class meets on Thursdays from9:30-11:30AM beginning 9/9/10 and goesuntil 5/12/11. More information about theCBS program and registration available bycontacting Sharon at 925-399-5072, or emailbobsharonmerrill@gmail.com.Granada Baptist Church, 945 ConcannonBoulevard, Livermore. Services: Sundayschool – 9:45 a.m.; worship service – 11 a.m.All are welcome. 1-888-805-7151.Seventh-day Adventist Church, 243Scott Street, Livermore. 925-447-5462, serviceson Saturday: Sabbath school 9:30 a.m.,worship 11 a.m. www.livermoresda.org/ Allare welcome.Stepping Stones on Grief Journey, GriefMinistry bi-monthly sessions, Catholic Communityof Pleasanton. Feb., 10, 11 and Mar.10, 24, 7:30 p.m. St. Elizabeth Seton, 4001Stoneridge Dr., Pleasanton. No preregistrationrequired. Open to all regardless of religious affiliation.Please call Mary Hagerty, 846-5377,for more information.A Call to Justice: Amos/Micah/Hosea,is the theme of the St. Charles/St. Michael'sBible Study for January 24-March 7. Godstood by his people and did the right thingfor them - the Bible calls this "justice." Allare invited to join the bible study group onMonday evenings from 7:30-9:00 pm at St.Charles Borromeo, 1315 Lomitas Ave., inLivermore. To reserve materials (cost $10) orhave questions call Julie at 925-447-4549 ext114 or at upcatholic@aol.com.Engaging Spirituality, series sessionsMonday evenings, offers daily practices forliving deeply. Twenty-one week program startsMon., Jan. 24, 7 to 9 p.m. St. Michael's Church,458 Maple St., Livermore. Sponsored by St.Michael Parish Social Concerns Ministry. Formore information and directions to the meetinglocation, call Carolyn Owens, 447-8987.The deaf community is invited to worshipat First Presbyterian Church in Livermore,where ASL translation will be provided everySunday at 10:30 A.M The church is located onthe corner of 4th and L streets.Love Never Ends: An afternoon formarried couples, Sun., Feb. 13, 2 to 6 p.m.St. Michael Catholic Church, 458 Maple St.,Livermore, in the parish hall. Couples fromWorld Wide Marriage Encounter will sharetestimonials on refreshing marriages, faith inthe home and celebrating life together. DebbiePost, Faith Enrichment Team Coordinator, DebbieJaneStineman@yahoo.com,443-5314.Divorce Care, Valley Bible Church, 7106Johnson Dr., Pleasanton, 13-week seminarand support group for people going throughdivorce or separation. Video shown eachnight featuring experts on various topics suchas controlling anger, forgiveness, caring forkids, and managing finances. The group meetson Tuesdays 7 to 9 p.m. starting March 8.There is a one-time charge for the workbookand other materials of $25. Preregistration isrequired. Contact Mark Porter at 846-9693 ormcporter@hotmail.com.Concert, featuring Yogi musician Dadaand his band Eternal Wave, Tues., Mar. 1, 7p.m., at Tri-Valley Unity, 2260 Camino Ramon,San Ramon, (Gayle at 925-925-3143). Suggesteddonation $15. Dada will also performFeb. 27 during 10:00 a.m. service and followwith a meditation/ chanting workshop - $10suggested donation, kids free. All are welcome.Dada specializes in spiritual eco-folk musicand kirtan singing.