Sec 1 - DanvilleSanRamon.com
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Sec 1 - DanvilleSanRamon.com
Lights, camera, action School TV broadcast keeps students informed ➤ page 18 Vol. II, Number 36 • January 5, 2007 www.DanvilleWeekly.com New year, new laws Who cares about Britney? Drivers must exercise caution in emergency zones Teen weighs Hollywood gossip vs. world issues ➤ page 5 2007 ➤ page 19 I resolve to get in shape page 14 PARVIZI 8 GALLERIA Pool Tables • Bar Stools • Home Furnishings parvizi.com Storewide Sale – One Week Only Hurry in for Best Selection Pool Tables • Game Tables and Chairs • Bars and Bar Stools Air Hockey • Foosball • Jukeboxes • Custom Orders 10-50% Off Bar Stools – Hundreds Of Stools In Stock Walnut Creek 2014 N. Main Street 925.943.1429 Page 2 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly Dublin 7102-A Dublin Blvd. 925.829.4000 San Jose 1824 Hillsdale Ave. 408.265.2215 Streetwise ASKED IN DOWNTOWN DANVILLE Q: Is President Bush a hero or a villain? He was on top of both lists in a recent poll. I want to preface this by saying it is difficult because we are lucky to be Americans and I want to respect the president. But how can we respect a president who’s responsible for a decline economically and socially and morally? Lauren Graham mom, former teacher A hero. He’s a moral, good person. He’s got a good momma and daddy. He makes decisions based on what he believes is right, not what makes him popular. I’m tired of movie stars saying they are going to move to Canada if he were re-elected—why didn’t they move? Martha Hanna German Empowering Education that Opens Your World Exciting and Engaging Curriculum Teaches Analytical Thinking Classes Average 15 Students Diverse International Programs and Community Nearly 100% Admitted to Outstanding 4-Year Colleges Extraordinary 75-Acre Campus ADMISSION OPEN HOUSES For fall 2007 Enrollment Grades 6-8: January 6 @ 1pm Grades 9-12: January 7 @ 1pm For more information call: (925) 362-7223 www.athenian.org Danville visiting from Dallas Transportation and Financial Aid Available Villain. He’s creating more problems, bigger issues. Terrorism isn’t going away. He’s creating more terrorists in the long run. Jill Pauletich works on production of commercials Both. I feel he’s holding the country together pretty well but I don’t agree with what he’s doing with the war. Morgan Huffy student at Diablo Valley College I think he’s a villain. He put the country in a lot of turmoil and doesn’t know how to get us out. That’s what villains do—they cause problems and don’t know how to get out. Jarrod Russell political science student at Sonoma State A B O U T T H E C OV E R Sandy McEnroe, owner of Fit Personal Fitness Studio on School Street in Danville, keeps in shape all year round. Photo by Jordan M. Doronila. Cover design by Ben Ho. Vol. II, Number 36 The Danville Weekly is published every Friday by Embarcadero Publishing Co., 315 Diablo Road, Suite 100, Danville, CA 94526; (925) 837-8300. Mailed at Standard Postage Rate. The Danville Weekly is mailed free to homes and apartments in Danville, Blackhawk, Diablo and Alamo. Voluntary subscriptions at $30 per year ($50 for two years) are welcome from local residents. Subscription rate for businesses and for residents of other communities is $50 per year. © 2006 by Embarcadero Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 3 N E W S F R O N T NOW ENROLLING! NEWS DIGEST Preschool-2yr, 3yr, 4yr Kindergarten-5th Grade GIVE YOUR DOG THE BEST GIFT OF ALL Kennel Free Grooming (STRESS FREE, One dog at a time, goes home when completed) Kennel Free Pet Sitting Dog Walking Licensed – Nonsectarian Nonprofit Academics – Computers Arts – P.E. Extended care Hacienda Park Employee Discount Quality education by • Upholding high academic standards • Fostering a love of learning • Promoting social & ethical responsibility Visit our safe and spacious campus any Tuesday or Saturday, 10am-12noon, or by appointment. On line shopping 925.831. DOGZ (3649) www.citydogz.com 4576 Willow Road, Pleasanton In Hacienda Business Park (925) 463-6060 www.cardenwest.org Success for every child, every day. with our “One Month ARM” (with Great New Pricing!) Example Loan Amount 1st Year Monthly Payment 2nd Year Max Monthly Payment 3rd Year Max Monthly Payment 4th Year Max Monthly Payment 5th Year Max Monthly Payment 30 year $500,000 $1,608 $1,728 $1,857 $1,996 $2,145 “ Common advice is to recognize that the camera is your best friend. ” —Documentary maker Charles Traylor, who helps Vista Grande Elementary students produce their school’s television station, VGTV. See story, page 18. PG&E gives tips on dealing with storms After the first winter storm last week, PG&E officials issued tips for customers on dealing with problems in the coming months: • Treat all downed power lines as if they are “live” or energized. Keep yourself and others away from them, immediately call 911, then notify PG&E at (800) 743-5000. • Unplug or turn off all electric appliances to avoid overloading circuits and fire hazards when power is restored. Leave a single lamp on to alert you when power returns. Turn your appliances back on one at a time when conditions return to normal. • Ensure that all alternate heat sources meet safety requirements and are approved for indoor use. * When high winds are expected to continue, you could still experience an outage. Have battery-operated flashlights and radios with fresh batteries ready, just in case. High winds gusting 55-75 miles per hour swept through the Bay Area in the recent storm, knocking down trees and blowing branches and debris into power lines. The result was service interruptions to more than 516,000 Pacific Gas and Electric customers, with damages to 39 poles and roughly 44 miles of power lines. Hospital addressing prostate cancer Lower Your House Payment • Minimum Payment at 1% (APR 5.830%) • Vacation Homes also at 1% • 40 Year Term Available for Really Low Payment • “Lowest Margins” • "Stated Income" at no extra cost • Loan Amounts up to 7 Million • Life Cap of 9.95% QUOTE OF THE WEEK 40 years $1,264 $1,358 $1,460 $1,569 $1,686 *Equity Lines to $750,000* Perfect for consolidating your 1st and 2nd mortgages, remove PMI, Cash-out to pay off debts, college funds, or the purchase of a second home. San Ramon Regional Medical Center is presenting a free seminar on Nutritional Therapies for Prostate Cancer, from 7:30-9 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 9. Registered dietitian Barbara Reis from the hospital staff will speak in the West Day Room in San Ramon Regional’s South Building, located at 7777 Norris Canyon Road. Spouses are welcome to attend but space is limited so reservations are required. Call (800) 284-2878 or register online at www. sanramonmedctr.com. At the same location, the Prostate Cancer Support Group meets at 7:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of every month with a facilitator affiliated with the Wellness Community. The Man to Man American Cancer Society program is designed to help men and their families cope with prostate cancer with education and support. Patients, spouses and support people are invited to attend the meetings. For more information, call the Wellness Community at 9330107. Schools to enhance art programs Laura Ryan 925.225.7644 laura.ryan@wamu.net Harry Osmus 925.225.7647 harry.osmus@wamu.net 5800 Stoneridge Mall Road • Pleasanton, CA 94588 Offer applies only to the 1-Month Option ARM. The interest rate/APR may increase after the first month. The interest rate may change more frequently than the minimum payment amount. The minimum payment is always the lowest payment that can be made each month. Making the minimum payment each month can result in negative amortization. All payment options are not available each month. In addition, on 15-year loans, only up to three payment options are available. Interest that accrues between the date of closing and the month preceding the month in which your first payment is due will be based on the higher of the start rates or the fully indexed rate. APR is effective 4/05/06. The APR and 1.000% start rate are available only to borrowers with FICO scores equal to or greater than 720. Different start rates and APRs may apply to borrowers with different credit profiles. The APR and 1.000% start rate are also only available on purchase money and non cashout refinance loans secured by 1-2 unit owner-occupied properties with terms of 15 and 30 years, Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratios of up to 70% (purchase money and non cash out refinance) and loan amounts of up to $1.5 million. Additional limitations and restrictions may apply. Higher rates may apply 1-Month Option ARMs with different parameters. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Alternative pricing options may be available. Ask a Washington Mutual loan consultant for details. Typical financing examples of a $200,000 loan with an LTV of 70% and prepaid finance charges of $3,607.29, a starting interest rate of 1.000%, Index of 4.011%, a Margin of 1.875% and a fully Indexed Rate of 5.886%. On a 30-year loan the APR would be 5.982 and the 360 minimum monthly payments would vary from $643.28 to $1,374.20. On a 15-year loan the APR would be 6.052% and the 180 minimum monthly payments would vary from $1,196.99 to $1,891.35. Washington Mutual has loan offices and accepts application in: Washington Mutual Bank- many states; Washington Mutual Bank, doing business as Washington Mutual Bank, FA- many states; and Washington Mutual Banks fsb- ID, MT, UT. Page 4 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly Trustees and school officials from the San Ramon Valley Unified School District discussed last month how a onetime block grant from the state would be distributed to arts programs in the schools. In this year’s state budget, a one-time grant of approximately $80 per student was established to provide supplies, equipment and/or professional development in art, music and physical education for grades K-12. The district must allocate $2,500 to each school, and the money does not need to be spent in this fiscal year. Additionally, an ongoing arts and music block grant of approximately $15 per student was made by the state. This ongoing funding may be used to hire staff, purchase new materials, books, supplies, equipment and/or provide professional development for grades K-12. “We need to make a decision on where we want to go,” said Christine Williams, assistant district superintendent of educational services. The district will formulate a plan and return it to the board for approval. Newsfront SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF DANVILLE • BLACKHAWK • DIABLO • ALAMO New laws take effect Jan. 1 Motorists should be aware of changes in driving rules by Jordan M. Doronila T DOLORES FOX CIARDELLI he California Highway Patrol hopes new state laws will stop minors from drinking and driving, as well as slow down commuters during emergencies on the freeway. The California State Legislature passed a series of new traffic laws that started taking effect Monday, Jan. 1. “Laws are created as guidelines,” said California Highway Patrol Officer Scott Yox. One new law criminalizes driving under the influence for anyone under the age of 21 with any alcohol in their blood. “The state of California is showing that ‘no tolerance’ is going to be absolutely enforced,” said Yox. “I have made stops (of minors) myself when I was out and about.” As before, drivers over 21 with a blood alcohol content of .08 or greater will be arrested for driving while intoxicated. Additionally, one of the new laws requires drivers on the freeway to move over and reduce their speed when emergency vehicles are stationary in an adjacent lane and have their emergency lights on. Yox recalled a tow truck driver getting killed in Danville by a passing vehicle just a couple of years ago. “One of our greatest dangers is traffic approaching on the freeways,” he said. “People are too busy thinking of themselves and driving.” “Hopefully, this law will gain some attention,” he added. “The law has a definite benefit to it.” In addition, the Legislature has created an “Emergency Incident Zone,” an area on the freeway within 500 feet of a stationary emergency vehicle. Motorists are specifically prohibited from driving in an unsafe manner in this zone, Yox said. Another new law prohibits motorists from allowing a person to ride in the trunk of their cars and makes it illegal for a person to ride in a trunk of a vehicle. Anyone who breaks this law is subject to punishment of $100 for the first violation, $200 for a second violation, and $250 for a third or subsequent violation. Another new law increases penalties for a driver convicted of reckless driving or being in a speed contest when he or she causes one or more of the following specified injuries: loss of consciousness; concussion; bone fracture; loss of limb, organ or long-term injury; severe cuts or injuries; brain injury; or paralysis. Other new laws make it a crime for a person to willfully flee or evade a pursuing peace officer by driving on the wrong side of the road; create additional penalties for moving violations that cause a collision or bodily injury; and establish new regulations that make California law conform to federal requirements pertaining to big rigs. A law was also passed making it illegal to use a handheld cell phone while driving, but it will not take effect until July 1, 2008. Yox noted that this coming law provides an exemption for emergency purposes. ■ January jogging Beth Williams and her daughter Hannah, 4, start off the year with a jaunt down the Iron Horse Trail near Del Amigo Road on Jan. 1. The trail was a popular place that day for joggers, walkers, bike riders, scooters and skaters, in singles, in couples and in families. Everyone enjoyed the clear skies and a high temperature of 60 degrees. San Ramon Valley fire district is ready to rescue Firefighters get three new trucks with increased capacity by Jordan M. Doronila JORDAN M. DORONILA T One of three new and bigger Tiller Trucks for the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District is ready to roll. hree new bigger and better fire trucks arrived last month in the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District and are ready to be used to rescue people from burning buildings. “We have a new piece of apparatus that has a greater ladder to reach and has more maneuverability,” said Battalion Chief John Viera, the project’s point man. The district received the new trucks from Pennsylvania on Dec. 15 to replace three old ones that were reaching the end of their 25year service lives. The new vehicles are tractor “These firetrucks have three times the storage capacity than the three trucks they are replacing.” —Battalion Chief John Viera trailers and have 100-foot aerial ladders and an operator area in both the front and the back. Viera said he had been working on the project for five years. Manufacturer American La France in Pennsylvania built the new trucks and had its employees drive them to Northern California. The company also creates trucks for fire districts in San Francisco, Oakland, Fremont and Los Angeles. Viera said the district’s last three trucks had aerial ladders that were less than 100 feet. The old ones had ladders that were 55, 75 and 85 feet. “These have three times the storage capacity than the three trucks they are replacing,” he said. The trucks also can carry more equipment and will have space for ➤ Continued on page 8 Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 5 VISIT DANVILLE’S NEWEST KITCHEN & BATH SHOWROOM KDC KITCHEN & BATH GALLERY 228 Railroad Avenue Danville, CA 94526 925-837-3680 KDC KITCHEN DESIGN CENTER 3732 Stanley Boulevard Pleasanton, CA 94566 925-417-7453 Full In-House Remodeling Services Available Serving The Tri-Valley Since 1990 Page 6 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly N E W S F R O N T Smog K ing School board doubles salary Every two years... You just gotta’ do it. Elected trustees now earn $400 per month and get reimbursed for expenses by Jordan Doronila School board trustees approved a measure last month that increases their monthly salary by $200 to $400. The motion was effective Dec. 1, 2006. The raise is the maximum amount they can earn working as a board member in the district, said Terry Koehne, spokesman for the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. “They doubled their compensation,” he said. Trustee Bill Clarkson said the board has not had a raise since 1990. “It’s been 26 years,” Clarkson said. “I think we are a bargain.” Additionally, the trustees have the option of participating in a health and welfare benefits program provided for district employees. However, to participate, they must pay for the benefits out of their own pocket, Clarkson noted. “We have no benefits,” he said. He added that health insurance is estimated to cost $800 to $2,000 “It’s been 26 years (since we have had a raise). I think we are a bargain.” —Trustee Bill Clarkson depending on the individual’s situation. Additionally, school board members may be reimbursed for all expenses incurred in attending meet- ings or making trips on official district business that is authorized in advance by the board. The rate of reimbursement cannot exceed limitations specified by district personnel. Members of the Danville Town Council also recently raised their salary from $563 per month to $675, effective Jan. 1. They do not get benefits, said Denise Phoenix, Danville Human Resources Manager. The school board vote for the raise was 4-1, with Trustee Paul Gardner opposed. ■ TA K E U S A L O N G 20 $ OFF In & out in 20 minutes All Smogs Including: • DMV Renewal • Test Only • RV’s • Gross Poluters 3440-D Stanley Blvd. Pleasanton 925-846-SMOG 19 Beta Ct. San Ramon 925-820-5665 Hours: Mon-Sat 8-6 NAME BRAND PRODUCTS IN STOCK • GREAT PRICES DECKING TREX • TIMBER TECH STAINS & CLEANERS Enjoying the Big Apple PENOFIN • SUPERDECK Michelle, Helen and Derek Tarantino read their Danville Weekly while taking in the sights and sounds of NYC at Rockefeller Center, a side trip on their Boston vacation. Summer in Sweden Cabo San Lucas con Weekly Two Alamo Burkland families enjoy their Danville Weekly while visiting Cabo San Lucas. ATTENTION EAST BAY REALTORS Effective Jan. 1, 2007, the Pleasanton Weekly and the Danville Weekly are charging a $20 fee for Open Home Guide listings from individuals and organizations not under a current 52- or 26-week contract with the publications. The fee will be incurred for each listing and must be prepaid. Contact your Weekly real estate account executive for details. Terry Bertolini Danville Weekly (925) 837-8300, ext. 24 Chris Paterson Pleasanton Weekly (925) 600-0840, ext. 10 Bertil and Alicia Axelsson include their Weekly on their trip to Sweden last summer. Thinking about a new sales career? Let’s talk. The Pleasanton Weekly and the Danville Weekly continue to expand with opportunities, so we’re always looking to strike up conversations with talented sales professionals. If you have experience in newspaper sales, or a strong sales background in a similar field, we’d like to speak with you. Exceptional communication skills, proficient computer skills, and attention to detail are a must. We’re a deadline-oriented company, so the ability to work accurately and efficiently is highly valued. If you possess these qualities, we’re open to explore new possibilities with you. For future consideration, please email your resume, with cover letter, to: Gina Allen President/Publisher Pleasanton Weekly & Danville Weekly gallen@pleasantonweekly.com Neighborhood Brewpub Winter Beers on Tap! San Ramon (925) 277-9600 470 Market Place Pleasanton (925) 426-9600 3015-H Hopyard Rd. - No phone calls, please The Pleasanton Weekly is an equal-opportunity employer. www.hopyard.com Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 7 N E W S F R O N T JORDAN M. DORONILA Fire Instructor John Leonard and District Battalion Chief John Viera climb the backside of one of the three new fire trucks. Fire ➤ Continued from page 5 JORDAN M. DORONILA digital gadgets in the future. “They are like a rolling toolbox,” Viera added. Fire officials spent $2.1 million from the district’s general fund to purchase the new trucks, which are expected to last for the next 25 years. The trucks are officially called 100-foot, tractor-drawn aerial apparatus but are otherwise known as common Tiller Trucks. The three will be located in downtown Danville, Blackhawk and at the Central Park station in San Ramon. Viera has been working in the district’s apparatus committee for quite some time, said Battalion Chief Jack Barton. “He’s been there since the beginning for the whole design of the program,” Barton said. The committee has captains, engineers and firefighters who were in charge of procuring the new tiller trucks. Barton noted that getting the three new tiller trucks has been the biggest change in the district since he has been there. ■ Firefighter Shane Bennett jackknifes the new fire truck while fire instructor John Leonard gives him direction. L a b e l s 7 for all mankind - paul frank - stitch’s - Kowboys - Buffalo - Proper Fools - Brown Label - 7 Diamonds - Malin+Goetz - Retro Sport - Paperdenimand Cloth - Brave - Hoven - William Rast - Modern Amusement - 575 Denim - Local Celebrity - Joe’s Jeans - Union Lo-Fi - Johnny Cotton - Citizens of Humanity A Men’s Store Featuring: Premium Denim Bar Classic Wovens Novelty Tees Specialty Men’s Grooming Products Shop for Men Accessories Free Espresso Bar “The store is AMAZING!!! Easily the best men’s store I’ve seen open in the Bay Area in all of my time with Paul Frank.” -Tony Patella, Paul Frank Industries Page 8 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly Located at 175 Prospect Avenue Suite 150 Downtown Danville At the Corner of Front St. & Prospect Ave. Tel: 925-831-8500 e-mail: Info@shop-edge.com www.shop-edge.com N E W S F R O N T History on display Document exhibit available to be put on view by Jordan M. Doronila The Town of Danville has a portable display of 20 historical U.S. documents that is available to be loaned to community centers or other venues that attract people. The exhibit helps people understand the impact and importance of their freedoms in the United States, said Councilwoman Karen Stepper. They are authenticated copies of the originals and date back to the Mayflower Compact and the Civil War. The documents were displayed in the Danville library in December on mobile walls, which are now in town storage. Interested parties can make a request for the display, Stepper said. The documents include copies of the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the Star Spangled Banner, the Emancipation Proclamation, the Gettysburg Address and the Monroe Doctrine. The display walls are approximately 20 feet by 5 feet and have documents on both sides. They weigh several hundred pounds. The exhibit will be used in memorial services and spaces for war veterans, such as the All Wars Memorial in Oak Hill Park. The documents were obtained by the National Exchange Club and are authenticated copies. Rochelle Flotten, assistant to the Town Manager, worked with a graphic designer and followed the guidance provided by the Town Council to create the project. ■ Shawn Stepper and his fiancée Jill Pagliaro peruse the display of historical documents that was at the Danville Library during the reception after the Mayor’s Installation and Awards Ceremony in early December. NEW YEAR SPECIAL $2.00 per ft. off (Expires 2-28-07) Personal Service Same Day Estimates 10 Year Warranty on Kick Boards and Posts Fences . Decks . Arbors Retaining Walls . Repairs C & J FENCING Family owned and operated 9 25.355.1380 CA License #868917 Sunday Pre Fixe Dinner 3 course menu 5-6 p.m. $25.00 44 Church Street Danville 925.820.7200 www.bridgesdanville.com Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 9 N E W S F R O N T LUMBER FOR BUILDING DECKING • PLYWOOD • FENCING Come discover our boutique where RESALE IS ALWAYS UPSCALE! 50% OFF SALE GOING ON NOW!!! 442 Hartz Avenue Danville, 94526 Tuesday-Saturday 10-5 925.820.4956 IN STOCK • GREAT PRICES LIGHTING COURTESY DAR Still accepting Snow Boots & Gear! Spring Consignment starts January 16, 2007 ARCHITECTURAL HARDWARE TRACK LIGHTS DAR presented Good Citizen Awards to (l-r) Susan Friedberg, Carolyn Talley and Jenna Schuck. Not shown, Megan Kirkaldie. DAR honors four students The Mt. Diablo Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) presented Good Citizen Awards to four local high school girls at its annual Christmas Tea in December. The girls honored were Susan Friedberg from Monte Vista High School; Carolyn Talley from San Ramon Valley High School; Jenna Schuck from California High School; and Megan Kirkaldie from Athenian High School. Their parents, teachers and counselors were also at the tea. These awards are based on the students’ academic standing and participation in school and community activities. The Mt. Diablo Chapter meets in the Vista Room at Hillside Clubhouse in Rossmoor at 11:45 a.m. the second Tuesday of the month. At its next meeting, Jan. 9, Past California State Secretary Cheryl Rios will present a program on DAR Insignia: The Significance and the History. DAR welcomes prospective members to attend its meetings. Anyone who has an ancestor that fought in or rendered aid in the American Revolution may be eligible for membership in the DAR. The Mount Diablo Chapter was organized Jan. 10, 1961, by 13 founding members. For more information, call Chapter Regent Barbara Beratta at 837-8551. ■ Restaurant • Bar • Catering Voted Best New Restaurant in 2006 by Diablo Magazine Readers 267 Hartz Avenue, in the Danville Clock Tower Center 925.820.6611 www.ThePeasantAndThePear.com Lunch served Tuesday through Saturday beginning at 11:30 Dinner served Tuesday through Sunday beginning at 5:00 Reservations recommended for both lunch and dinner Rodney Worth, Executive Chef/Owner Page 10 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly Diablo Views DOORS BRINGING LEARNING TO LIFE INTERIOR • CLOSET • ENTRY BY DOLORES FOX CIARDELLI HARDWOOD FLOORING SOLID • HANDSCAPED • EXOTIC Danville vs. a global village E very time I leave town, I find myself saying, “This sure ain’t Danville.” (“Ain’t” for emphasis.) This happens in San Francisco as I drive round and round the city blocks looking for a parking place, as well as in Central Valley towns that I navigate on my way somewhere else. There may be other places in the country and in the world that match this area for physical beauty, good weather, and the ease of living enjoyed in well-planned suburbs, but there are many, many more that do not. People here know Danville is unique but it is still an eye opener to learn the facts about the diversity in the world. The World Citizen Foundation collected information about populations worldwide and compiled a “global village” of 100 people, keeping the ratios from throughout the planet. The residents of this global village would be half male and half female, as follows: • 61 from Asia • 21 from China • 17 from India • 13 from Africa • 12 from Europe • 5 from the United States • 1 from Australia/New Zealand This sure doesn’t resemble Danville. And the languages spoken are interesting, too; fewer than 10 percent would speak English. It breaks down to: • 22 speaking a Chinese dialect (18 speaking Mandarin) • 9 speaking English • 8 speaking Hindi Darn, I was hoping English was more universal than that. On the religious side, there would be: • 32 Christians • 19 Moslems • 6 Buddhists • 1 Jew • 68 non-Christians, 15 of whom would be non-religious What a diverse world we live in! It humbles me and makes me want to reach out to meet some of these people. Surely their outlook on everything from the origins of the earth to child-rearing to what constitutes a good meal must be different from mine. Even people I know from around here seem to differ quite a bit in their backgrounds and perspectives, so reaching out further for a conversation would be a real eye-opener. Unfortunately we probably wouldn’t speak the same language. Additional statistics in this global village are sad. There are only 30 out of the 100 who have enough to eat. And although 88 of them are old enough to read, 17 of them can- not. Oh, and this village of 100 has one teacher. Actually I’m surprised there are that many teachers in the world. That’s good news. When I passed through Heathrow Airport in the fall, I definitely knew I wasn’t at home—the long, snaking line waiting to go through the security check contained more people than I’ve ever seen in the whole of downtown Danville, except maybe at the Fourth of July parade. And the crowd was diverse, in appearance and in languages. But we all had something in common: We could afford to fly internationally and we had somewhere to go. So obviously this was not a cross-section of the world’s total population. TOTO TOILETS IN STOCK • GREAT PRICES STONE & MASONRY exploring & imagining LANDSCAPE MATERIALS TOPSOIL • BARK • SOD STONE FOR BUILDING PAVERS • CONCRETE BLOCK We know the world Application Deadline January 31, 2007 FLAGSTONE • RIVERROCK The Seven Hills School 975 North San Carlos Drive, CA 94598 tel 925.933.0666 www.sevenhillsschool.org is shrinking whether or not we ever travel. Just read the labels on your clothes and household goods. So what will the world look like in 100 years or 200 years? Are Danville and environs going to begin to resemble the world at large? Will those of European descent still prevail? Will English be the predominant language? Ah, for a glimpse into the future. This look at the present from a global viewpoint puts our home into perspective. We know the world is shrinking whether or not we ever travel. Just read the labels on your clothes and household goods. Although some clothes proclaim they are “Made in the USA,” I don’t see any clothing factories around here. At this very moment, my husband is assembling an exercycle that is labeled Hecho in China. The Internet with its news and photos presents the entire world in a bundle, but small parts of it are vastly over-represented while others are under-represented. Newspapers and television also show scenes from around the globe and glimpses into others’ lives. But the stats from the World Citizen Foundation are the best way I’ve found to grasp the reality of our planet’s population. And these statistics highlight how unique our home truly is. ■ Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 11 Perspective PROTECT YOURSELF PROTECT YOUR LOVED ONES GAIN PEACE OF MIND Robert J. Silverman Attorney At Law Wills, Trusts, Probate Emphasis in Estate Planning Alamo (925) 838-2090 Call now for a free consultation Real Estate & Business Transactions rsilverman@berding-weil.com Elegant and Relaxing Personalized Professional Nail Care Serving the communities of Danville, Blackhawk, Diablo and Alamo PUBLISHER Gina Channell-Allen EDITORIAL Editor Dolores Fox Ciardelli Staff Reporters Jordan M. Doronila Natalie O’Neill Sports Writer Rachel McMurdie Contributors Cheri Eplin Geoff Gillette B. Lynn Goodwin Beverly Lane Jacqui Love Marshall Katharine O’Hara Christina Straw ART & PRODUCTION Art Director/ Operations Manager Shannon Corey Assistant Design Director Ben Ho Designers Steve Bruzenak Trina Cannon James Greenfield ADVERTISING Advertising Manager Mary Hantos Advertising Account Executive Susan Sterling General and Real Estate Account Executive Terry Bertolini Classified Advertising Sandy Lee Susan Thomas BUSINESS Office Manager Amory Foreman Ad Services Veneta Roberts, Manager Susan Thomas Crow Canyon location Business Associate Lisa Oefelein Circulation Manager Bob Lampkin How to reach the Weekly BOLLINGER NAIL SALON LOCATIONS San Ramon - Bollinger Canyon Road 18080 San Ramon Valley Blvd . . . (925) 830-9700 San Ramon - Crow Canyon Road 2441 San Ramon Valley Blvd . . . . (925) 838-6300 Pleasant Hill 1420 Contra Costa Blvd . . . . . . . . (925) 680 8600 Walnut Creek 1661 Mt. Diablo Blvd. . . . . . . . . . (925) 938-2500 Host a Party—For birthdays, bridal showers or friends who want to have a unique and fun get together, arrange a private party at Bollinger Nail Salon. Page 12 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly 315 Diablo Road, Suite 100 Danville, CA 94526 Phone: (925) 837-8300 Fax: (925) 837-2278 Editorial e-mail: Editor@DanvilleWeekly.com Calendar@DanvilleWeekly.com Display Sales e-mail: sales@PleasantonWeekly.com Classifieds Sales e-mail: Ads@DanvilleWeekly.com Circulation e-mail: circulation@DanvilleWeekly.com The Danville Weekly is published every Friday by Embarcadero Publishing Co., 315 Diablo Road, Suite 100, Danville, CA 94526; (925) 837-8300. Mailed at Standard Postage Rate. The Danville Weekly is mailed free to homes and apartments in Danville, Blackhawk, Diablo and Alamo. Voluntary subscriptions at $30 per year ($50 for two years) are welcome from local residents. Subscription rate for businesses and for residents of other communities is $50/year. © 2006 by Embarcadero Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. EDITORIALS • LETTERS • OPINIONS E D I T O R I A L • T H E O P I N I O N O F T H E W E E K LY Keeping our roads safe Some laws have been around forever. “Thou shalt not kill” comes to mind. But driving laws have been in a constant state of fine-tuning since the horseless carriage came into widespread use less than a century ago. Since too many people forego common sense when driving, these laws are necessary. On Jan. 1, several new traffic laws went into effect in California. One of the new laws takes a further, logical step against underage drinking and driving, in a true zero-tolerance law. Before, only administrative action could be taken against the driver’s license of a person under 21 who was driving with a blood alcohol concentration of .01 or greater; it is now illegal for anyone under 21 to drive with any amount of alcohol in their system. It was high time this driving law was brought into accordance with the state law that prohibits anyone under It was high time 21 from purchasing or this driving law consuming alcohol. was brought into Another new law accordance with the created an Emergency Incident Zone. Drivers state law that prohibits within 500 feet of a anyone under 21 stationary emergency from purchasing or vehicle that has its consuming alcohol. emergency lights on must now slow to a safe speed and move out of that lane. It sounds reasonable but, unfortunately, emergency responders are often the victims of vehicles that do not slow down for a tow truck on the side of the freeway. The Reckless Driving and Speed Contests law increases the penalties for anyone convicted of this offense when it causes one of eight specified injuries. This law might come under the heading of being responsible for one’s actions. The outcome of reckless driving might be considered a matter of luck, but when people drive irresponsibly they indeed should be held accountable for any negative consequences. Responsible drivers were already following these safe practices but the laws had to be enacted to make the others comply. The new law against driving while holding a cell phone does not take effect until July 1, 2008; alas, common sense does not seem to prevail with cell phone use and otherwise responsible people are not self-regulating to stop this dangerous practice. YOUR TURN The Danville Weekly encourages comments on our coverage or on issues of local interest. Deadline is 5 p.m. Monday for that week’s edition; please limit letters to 250 words, and provide your name, street address and daytime telephone number. We reserve the right to edit contributions for length and style and for factual errors known to us. LETTERS: Mail or hand deliver to Danville Weekly, 315 Diablo Road, Suite 100, Danville, CA 94526 Fax: (925) 837-2278 E-mail: Editor@DanvilleWeekly.com Community Pulse POLICE BULLETIN & LOG • OBITUARIES • BIRTHS & WEDDINGS POLICE LOG The Danville Police Department made the following information available. Under the law, those charged with offenses are considered innocent until convicted. Wednesday, Dec. 27 • Vandalism on Ramsgate Ct. at 3:08 p.m. • Accident, property damage, on Hartz Ave. at 8:20 p.m. • Disturbance on Messian Pl. at 10:55 p.m. • Party disturbance on Ambience Way at 11:39 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 28 • Noise disturbance on Ambience Way at 1:01 a.m. • Barking dog disturbance on Danville Oak Pl. at 6:09 a.m. • Vandalism on St. Mark Ct. at 9:31 a.m. • Public nuisance on Tassajara Ranch Dr. and Zenith Ridge at 5:08 p.m. • Disturbance on San Ramon Valley Blvd. at 6:41 p.m. Friday, Dec. 29 • Auto burglary on Hartz Ave. at 9:27 a.m. • Vandalism on Hartz Ave. at 10:03 a.m. • Misdemeanor hit-and-run on Camino Amigo at 10:14 a.m. • Auto burglary on Hartz Ave. at 10:28 a.m. • Suspicious circumstances on Merrimac Pl. at 11:17 a.m. • Petty theft on Silverwood Ct. at 11:53 a.m. • Auto burglary on Mariposa Ct. at 12:14 p.m. • Battery on Diablo Rd. and El Pintado Rd. at 1:06 p.m. • Auto burglary on William Ct. at 1:09 p.m. • Bomb threat on Holbrook Dr. at 5:52 p.m. • Fight disturbance on Crow Canyon Rd. at 5:55 p.m. • Battery on Crow Canyon Rd. at 6:24 p.m. POLICE BULLETIN • Accident, major injuries, on northbound I-680 and Sycamore Valley Rd. at 10:28 p.m. • Identity theft on Shelby Ct. at 11:06 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 30 • Battery on Hartz Ave. at 12:07 a.m. • Fireworks disturbance on St. Norbert Dr. at 12:08 a.m. • Defrauding innkeeper on Rainbow Cir. at 1:46 a.m. • Petty theft on Fostoria Way at 8:27 a.m. • Petty theft on Camino Ramon at 9:17 a.m. • Threats disturbance on Camino Ramon at 9:51 a.m. • Fight disturbance on Plumeria Ct. at 3:16 p.m. • Auto burglary on Camino Tassajara and Sycamore Valley Rd. at 3:41 p.m. • Suspicious circumstances on Hartz Ave. at 4:39 p.m. • Petty theft, shoplift, on Railroad Ave. at 7:49 p.m. Attack on bouncer ends in arrest Danville police arrested a man on suspicion of battery after he allegedly hit a bouncer outside of Elliott’s Bar on Hartz Avenue in Danville last week. Danville police Sgt. Troy Craig said that Thomas Keller, 39, of San Ramon, clenched his two fists and punched the bouncer when he was denied re-entry to Elliott’s near midnight, Friday, Dec. 29, according to the police report. Keller was unable to control himself due to his intoxication, Craig said. The 28-year-old bouncer is 6-foot-2 and weighs 280 pounds, while Keller is 5-feet-2 and weighs 140 pounds, reported Craig. After being punched, the bouncer took Keller to the ground and held him until the police came, according to the report. “It was a light restraint,” Craig said. He added that staff members at Elliott’s saw the San Ramon man nearly falling to the ground several times. He was taken to the Martinez Detention Facility. —Jordan M. Doronila OBITUARIES Joan M. Nie Danville resident Joan M. Nie, 63, passed away Dec. 23. She was born June 7, 1943, in Tacoma, Wash., and was raised in Seattle; she graduated from the University of Washington in 1965. A long-time member of Danville’s Community Presbyterian Church, she played an important role in the formation of its Senior Center, now called Prime Time. She was known primarily for her strong faith in battling multiple sclerosis, and caring deeply for her friends and family. She is survived by her husband of 41 years, John E. Nie; daughter Julie Lazar and her husband Joe of Walnut Creek; son Jay Nie and his wife Ronda of Corona; and brother Jack Rafn and his wife Marilyn of Seattle. A memorial service is scheduled for 10 a.m., Friday, Jan. 12, in the sanctuary of Community Presbyterian Church, 222 W. El Pintado, Danville. In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, 150 Grand Ave., Oakland 94612. Dorothy Marie Macklin Moore Bird Dorothy Marie Macklin Moore Bird, a resident of Danville, passed away in Danville on Dec. 20 at the age of 88. She was known as Dottie to her friends. She was born Oct. 15, 1918, in Columbus, Ohio, one of three children born to Park and Grace Macklin. She married Alan Moore in 1940, who passed away in 1973. They were noted for providing a “home away from home” for high school friends of their son, Greg, as well as seeing all their children graduate from college. She married Daniel K. Bird in 1979. They lived in Beaver Creek, Ohio, until both retired from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in 1981. They then moved to California where they resided in Pleasanton for 15 years. She was active in Toastmasters, serving in every officer position and rising to the rank of Able Toastmaster. She also served as a volunteer at the Kaiser Outpatient Office in Pleasanton and as an election board member, until she suffered strokes. During her final years, her caregiver Yolanda Garcia provided her with a deep friendship as well as care; her son Ryan became another grandchild to Dottie. She is survived by her husband, Daniel K. Bird; three children, Richard Alan (Nonnie) Moore of Hayward, Judith Moore (Hal) Young of Danville, and Gregory (Terri) Moore of Los Altos; brother Robert (Marty) Macklin of Columbus, Ohio; three stepchildren, Mike (Mirka) Bird of Bonn, Germany, Joan (Max) Bird of Helena, Mont., and Mary K. Bird-Guilliams of Wichita, Kan.; six grandchildren; six step-grandchildren; and one great-grandson. Her older sister, Virginia, preceded her in death. A memorial service was held Dec. 30 at Wilson & Kratzer Chapel of San Ramon Valley in Danville. Memorial contributions be made to the Ryan Garcia Educational Fund, c/o Yolanda Garcia, 209 Paraiso Drive, Danville, CA 94526. MOULDING We need a graphic designer The Pleasanton Weekly and the Danville Weekly is currently seeking a Full-Time Graphic Designer to help produce our Tri-Valley community newspapers. Responsibilities will include both editorial and advertising design. Must have Mac experience, basic production skills and a good design portfolio. InDesign, Photoshop knowledge is required, Web/Flash experience a bonus. Candidate should be able to work under tight deadlines in a busy environment with attention to detail. Guaranteed to work hard—but also have fun in a small office with a dedicated staff. This full-time position offers health and dental benefits and a 401(k) plan—plus the distinction of working for an award-winning and ever-growing hometown newspaper. Please e-mail your resume to Shannon Corey, Art Director: scorey@pleasantonweekly.com • A LOCAL DIRECT LENDER • FAST DECISIONS • PURCHASE/REFINANCE • OUT OF STATE LENDING MEDALLIONS • MANTELS • LOANS FOR EVERY NEED • STATED INCOME/INT.ONLY • HUD APPROVED LENDER • PERSONALIZED SERVICE Thousands of satisfied customers throughout California! TOOLS FOR BUILDING IN STOCK • GREAT PRICES 780 San Ramon Valley Blvd. 2nd floor Danville DOORS INTERIOR • CLOSET • ENTRY Andrew Karleskind Patricia Szabo Eric Karleskind Corina Wuest 925-855-7131 Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 13 C O V E R S T O R Y My resolution is to take my kids fishing more. They both love going out on the boat and it is a great way to spend time with them. I want my son to catch his first fish this year. He will be 3 in March. He went fishing with me several times last summer, but doesn’t quite get what fishing is all about yet. By this spring and summer, he should be ready for the task. My daughter (Erin, at left), who will turn 5 in March, is already a seasoned pro! She loves to come fishing and no longer wants Daddy to help her reel the fish in. Philip Hellsten, aka Starman 111-Group Avatar —Mike Ireland Danville canine cop Mike Shimansky is sworn in as Danville mayor. John Bellandi, own of Alamo Hay and Grain I hereby resolve... January means a new start in our striving for perfection N ew Year’s resolutions— we make ’em, we break ’em; we love ’em. And some people who have been in our news pages this year have shared their resolutions and plans for 2007. Page 14 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly I usually make three resolutions and two wishes. I resolve (courageous commitment, determined decision and persistent persevering): 1. To put an end to divorce on the planet by fixing people up with their true soulmate using my revolutionary new discovery Psychtrology. 2. To cure TPS (toxic parent syndrome), which most people suffer from and don’t even know it. 3. To become a Godzillionaire and to take over the Internet and then turn it off. I only have one wish (dream) this year—to get on the cover of Oprah Magazine promoting myself as “the worlds first and only Psychtrologist.” A second wish would be to get people to unplug their “anti-social devices” (iPods) and listen to real (live) music or the wind in the trees, or birdsong and also just to enjoy everyday life more. My New Year’s resolution is to celebrate all year! —Philip Hellsten aka Starman1111-Group Avatar Oh PUNish me! My 2007 resolution is to double the celebration of political commentary and reap the benefits of public reaction. My joy in 2006 was the exceptional humor celebrated among many Alamo Region residents. My goal for 2007 is to draw out more joyously foolish Alamo Region residents and pursue bigger and better DAZE. In 2006, we celebrated many parodies of public political events as DAZE in the Park, DAZE up a Creek, School DAZE, DAZE at the Lake, and the coming DAZE of the Maytag repairmen of Alamo Council (MAC) as “the loneliest people in town.” Such humor is not a celebration for all. Our more public citizens find it hard to laugh because they are so captured in the DAZE of their lives. Few can actually note that even in silence the majority of Contra Costans are laughing at the political results. I will consider my resolution a success when I have our public citizens laughing with us. It will be somewhat like pursuing peace in our lifetime and being more satisfied with trying than the failure the efforts bring. Joyous and successful 2007! —Hal Bailey Alamo resident and frequent letter to the editor writer To floss. To finish one of the 14 novels on my bedside table. To walk the dogs before work, even if it’s 29 degrees outside. To finish unpacking from my move to Danville (back in July). To fix my broken headlight that was damaged when I rear ended a passenger vehicle that suddenly stopped for an SRVUSD school bus. —Margie Brown Assistant Superintendent, Facilities Development, San Ramon Valley Unified School District C O V E R S T O R Y Valley Parent Preschool Open House My New Year’s resolution for 2007 is a promise never to tell a lie, emulating the Father of our Country, George Washington, my hero. Few realize Washington was born in what is now Texas. Upon reaching 16, he became interested in politics and also received an ax from his father as a birthday gift. One afternoon when his parents were out, he used the ax to chop down the mesquite tree in his parents’ front yard. When his parents came home they, of course, noticed the fallen tree. George went directly to his Father and said, “Father, it was I who chopped down the mesquite tree. What are you going to do to me?” His father said, “George, I’m not going to punish you, but we must move from Texas to Virginia. No Texan can be successful in politics who is so honest.” And so it has been ever since. We are a parent cooperative school offering preschool, pre-kindergarten and kinderprep programs. —Danville Mayor Mike Shimansky My resolution is perhaps to get more active in the VFW and probably to do more traveling. I’d like to do more for the veterans. Perhaps arrange some luncheons for them. I’m going back to Alaska. I’d like to concentrate on fishing. These are the things I want to do. —Tony Carnemolla trustee of the Veterans Memorial Building It’s a new year and there’s going to be some improvements. You betcha. For starters, we’re going to get those Christmas lights down and packed away, if there’s room after all the new decorations we bought. And if we can’t squeeze everything back into the attic, we’re going to make room. We’ll just go through the house and get rid of everything we don’t use, or need, or can’t find all the parts for, even if we might regret it later when we remember why we got the thing in the first place and go looking for it, but it isn’t there because we put it in the pile of donation pick-up stuff in a rash and impulsive moment of ingratitude for all the wonderful things we have, forgetting that it’s not the things that are important, but the cherished memories they invoke. Or, maybe we’ll just celebrate Christmas all year! 935 Camino Ramon Danville, CA 94526 (925) 837-5401 THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER‚ NOW IN PAPERBACK “JOHN GRISHAM, MOVE OVER!”* —Ralph Hoffmann Danville resident active on many committees My Jan. 1 resolution is to keep off all the weight that I had lost while I was campaigning this year. And to keep all of my New Year’s resolutions that I do make until at least my next birthday. And I think I could do that. It just so happens my next birthday is Jan. 2. Friday, January 19th 12 - 2 p.m. Beth Batchelor, artist and founder of the Alamo-Danville Artists Society 2. Keep up good humor in spite of negative events. 3. Each clean, clear, new moment (which hopefully is about to enter my life) must be unsullied with remnants of the negativism experienced in the previous minute. Each unused minute will now be filled with art, love of life and patience. 4. To replace most of my three-minute closet hangers with one-minute hooks to declutter the clutter! 5. To inspire my art students to create award-winning paintings with my guidance. 6. To create an active group of folks who will fight the addition of “harmless” food additives. Many food colors have a gradual accumulative effect and have been proven to be cancer causing. 7. To reconstruct Contra Costa Academy of Fine Arts by getting an active new board of directors, volunteer staff and most of all a space for the classes. —Beth Batchelor artist —Fred Turner Laughter Yoga Leader, Salon at the Gallery Organizer “A riveting tale of murder, treachery, and skullduggery at the highest levels.” I moved out of my house in 1989 and I still have a box in public storage in Livermore. My New Year’s resolution is to finally go over there and pick it up. It’s full of old table saws and my kids’ tape and record collections from back then. I’m not sure what’s taken me so long. —*Seattle Times “Robert Dugoni has put the thrills back in the genre.” —John Bellandi owner of Alamo Hay and Grain My resolution is kind of quirky. The No. 1 thing I want to do in 2007 is to put together an event where 500 singles spend the whole weekend together. I’m already looking into having it at the Marriott. We’ll have classes, cocktails, makeovers and a panel of men and women answering why men do this or women do that. Imagine doing what I do for a living. My job is one big party. —Jeannine Kaiser founder of Dating IQ My New Year’s resolutions for 2007 are as follows: 1. To tout Al Gore’s message in his movie “An Inconvenient Truth” and to actively heed his advice. Jeff Seaberg poses with an actress from the zany production, “Wigged Out.” 1. Be less rude to phone solicitors 2. Cut fewer people off on the freeway. 3. Laugh more, eat less fried salt and more chocolate. Chocolate makes me laugh. 4. Find a faster off-freeway rush hour route from Walnut Creek to Danville. 5. Destroy cell phones using “Feelings,” “My Heart Will Go On” or “The Macarena” as ring tones. —Jeff Seaberg director-producer of “Wigged Out” at Victoria’s Hair Onstage —Nelson DeMille “A thriller of the first order, delivered in high-octane prose...a winner.” —John Lescroart ❖ X HACHETTE BOOK GROUP USA Warner Books and the “W” logo are trademarks of Time Warner Inc. Used under license. www.hbgusa.com Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 15 Page 16 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 17 Living PEOPLE & LIFESTYLES IN OUR COMMUNITY Lights, camera, action School TV broadcast teaches skills to fifth-graders, keeps everyone informed by Jordan M. Doronila PHOTOS BY . DORONILA Page 18 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly JORDAN M L ook. Smile. And speak —clearly. The camera is watching you. Once a week, fifth-graders from Vista Grande Elementary School in Danville prepare and rehearse broadcasting local news live on Vista Grande Television (VGTV), their school’s own station. They work under the guidance of adult media professionals. Every Wednesday morning at 8:30 a.m., the rest of the student body spends 12 to 15 minutes watching their peers report on the happenings in and around their community. Among the recent stories covered was Pearl Harbor veterans at a memorial service atop Mount Diablo talking about the other soldiers who died in the war. They also highlighted what’s new at the school. “VGTV keeps us up to date about all the activities here at Vista Grande,” said first-grade teacher Rebecca Wilson. “It informs us about people and places in our community.” “It improves children’s public speaking and leadership skills,” she added. “It increases school unity.” Wilson’s students said they enjoy watching VGTV. “I like VGTV,” said Hailey Hickey, 6. “They do sports reporting.” “I like the music,” said Krista Cleary, also 6. “I like pictures,” said 7-year-old Winston Shoemaker. Vista Grande started VGTV more than eight years ago. Fifth-graders who are elected to public positions in school, such as president, vice president and commissioner, produce the program. Kids learn how to interview people and put together stories in a broadcast, which is aired in all Vista Grande classrooms each Wednesday morning. Students work the camera, too. Several media professionals in the Bay Area volunteer their time and give direction to the students. Charles Traylor, a documentary maker from San Ramon, and former radio producer Leonard Nelson spend their Tuesday mornings helping the budding TV journalists at Vista Grande. Traylor’s oldest child, Pascale, was involved in VGTV in 1998. “It’s been going on for a while,” he said about the program. Some of the professional advice ➤ Continued on page 22 Clockwise from top left: Jenna Turley, 10, produces a VGTV program at Vista Grande Elementary School in Danville; Ben Wensley, 10, concentrates as he works the camera; Darren Hannan, 7, Carson Bull, 6, and Chris Lapp, 6, sit spellbound watching VGTV; Sarah Peterson, 10, consults with an adult professional on how to present a book about camp cooking to her peers; center: a classroom broadcast over VGTV. L I V I N G The 411 B Y K AT H A R I N E O ’ H A R A The 411: Celebrity gossip distracts from real issues A s long as Hollywood exists, so will the tabloids, entertainment shows and the population’s endless fascination with the lives of the rich and famous. In light of the recent craze over the verbal duel between “The Donald” and Rosie O’Donnell, Nicole Richie’s drug bust and the Britney Spears-Paris Hilton partying ordeal, I think it is best we take a step back and reprioritize. In the larger spectrum of things, does anyone really care that Britney Spears doesn’t wear underwear? From speculation, many teenagers today seem to be far more interested in celebrity gossip than the war in Iraq and other daily, worldwide tragedies. It seems that in suburbia we are all so bored with our own lives that we tend to turn to others’ lives for amusement. “I kind of keep up with celebrity nonsense … out of sheer boredom,” said Nina Umont, a Monte Vista High School junior. “My mom buys People magazine, and if I have nothing better to do, I read about Nicole Richie’s arrest or Lindsay Lohan accidentally flashing the world. I think the average American likes the idea of living vicariously through these celebrities, or seeing how similarly stupid they can be to us. Perhaps it is comforting to see such rich and famous people acting somewhat ‘normal.’” The public is somewhat relieved at the sight of such acclaimed people making mistakes because it makes their own mistakes look half as bad. Celebrity drama provides people an escape and a way by which to detract from their own problems. The knowledge of celebrity lives also seems to be a common ground for a lot of people—a conversation starter of sorts. Many are familiar with the latest People magazine cover story or Access Hollywood episode, and this provides a common topic of discussion. “Gossiping about celebrities gives people something to talk about whether it be one admiring or relating to their favorite star, or criticizing another,” said Andrew Taverrite, a junior at San Ramon Valley High School. Mocking celebrities allows for a sort of guiltless criticism, where one can scrutinize another without getting in trouble. It is interesting how people tend to glom onto the lives of people they have no personal connection to, and care so much about their honeymoon spot, divorces, depression and eating disorders. “I’m not interested in celebrity gossip because I am not personally attached to these people and thus have no need to follow the drama in their lives. I have my own drama to worry about and issues to take care of,” said Aisha Siddiqui, an SRVHS junior. It is disappointing that the public has stooped to such a low level that inordinate amounts of time and energy are devoted to following these attention-craving people. The fact that a person like Paris Hilton has been able to achieve stardom based merely off her par- The outrageous musical comedy....... ent’s wealth, her good looks and scandalous behavior, says something about our society. Paris’ fame rides on the back of the public, who financially support her pathetic pursuits—singing, clothing design, etc.—that have only stemmed from her achieved fame. But isn’t it supposed to be the other way around? A person should become famous due to an outstanding ability or talent, not suddenly decide that they are famous enough to sustain a singing career. Because consumers are drawn to Paris Hilton’s drama and purchase a magazine or tabloid with her story on the cover, her bad behavior—and terrible voice—is being rewarded with upgraded status and fame. Not only are these infamous stars given endless attention from the public, but many are adored and revered by the thousands of children (and adults) who hopelessly aspire to be just like their favorite star. “A lot of teens view celebrities as role models and are thus drawn to talking about their latest drama,” said Taverrite. But the behavior a lot of these celebrities engage in serves as anything but a good example, in my opinion. When it comes down to it, there is a multitude of problems far more worthy of the world’s attention than who stole whose husband or wore the same dress to the Academy Awards. The forceful nature of the media that consumes the lives of teens all over the nation is causing this coming generation of teenagers to be completely ignorant of issues such as global warming, world poverty, AIDS and the war in Iraq—issues that, unlike the drama of celebrities, will truly affect their lives if not attended to soon. The 411 offers information and insight on the teen scene by Katharine O’Hara, a junior at San Ramon Valley High School who spends her free time going to concerts, enjoying her friends, and playing the piano. Resolve to get WIGGED OUT in 2007! CALL NOW SHOWS SELLING OUT (925) 855-SHOW Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 19 Epicure BY JACQUI LOVE MARSHALL 2007: Cooking and eating for health Design W EXPERIENCE EXCELLENCE The ffinest inest interiors be gin with good taste. Good begin interior design doesn’ ve to be eexpensi xpensi ve, bbut ut doesn’tt ha hav xpensiv mistak es al ways are! mistakes alw Let our designers help yyou ou aav void costl y mistak es costly mistakes and help yyou ou ffind ind the right decorating solution! Fine Fur niture Furniture Custom Draperies Bernhardt, Century, Lane Hickory-White etc. Swags, Valances, Roman Shades Sa ve 20-30% Sav Sa ve up to 25% Sav Holiday Sale SAVE NOW! Save $100/unit, 2 units Max ® Luminette Silhouette with Power Rise® Save $50/unit, units Max ® Luminette® • 3Vignette ® Silhouette ® Country Woods • EverWood® Save $25/unit, 3 units Max ® Duette “Alouette” Trio Custom ® Collection Palm Shutter Beach Shutters ® Vignette®•®Alouette Shutters Heritance Oct 1- Dec 15, 2006 Since 1980 Hunter Douglas Priority Dealer Hunter Douglas Priority Dealer 120 W. Linda Mesa Ave • Danville • 925.837.0997 www.indesign-interiors.com Discov difference-w ference-where affordab fordable! Disco ver the Indesign dif ference-w here Design becomes af fordab le! Thank you to our wonderful customers for all your support in 2006! To kick off 2007, please come in and enjoy ell, it’s been a wonderful holiday season and I have eaten my fair share of holiday meals and homemade treats. I’ve imbibed my fair share of wine, cocktails and champagne. I’ve endured my fair share of indigestion and holiday weight gain. But, alas, all things must eventually come to an end. It’s a new year and it’s time to turn our thoughts to healthier eating. I hope one of your resolutions this year will be to eat and drink better than in 2006. There are plenty of good reasons to make that pledge. During the past 20 years, adult obesity has risen significantly in the United States. Recent data from the National Center for Health Statistics show that 66 percent of adults 20-plus years of age in the U.S.—more than 136 million people—are obese. The trend is not just among adults: 25 million or one-third of U.S. children and teens ages 6-19 years are overweight. That percentage among young people has more than tripled since 1980. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity among Americans raises concern “because of their implications for Americans’ health. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of many diseases and health conditions.” Among certain diseases and conditions, the CDC cites the following: • Type 2 diabetes • Coronary heart disease everything in the store. • Stroke • Gallbladder disease • Osteoarthritis Timbuk2 • Sleep apnea and respiratory problems • Some cancers (endometrial, breast and colon) Great assortment of Keen Footwear Great Selection of Active Wear Royal Robbins 440 Main Street, Pleasanton . 925-931-0775 8 Broadway Lane, Walnut Creek . 925-944-1118 Page 20 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly Research suggests that combining antioxidants within one meal provides more immunity aid than eating any one type alone. Fit combos of these foods into your daily diet: • Almonds & Walnuts: They are great sources of omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin E and phytosterois (plant sterois). Nut eaters lower their risk of Parkinson’s and high cholesterol. 1/4 cup per day is ideal. • Leafy Greens: Greens like kale or spinach are full of lutein, a super-antioxidant. 1 cup cooked kale or 2 cups raw spinach per day is recommended. • Cranberries, Blueberries, Blackberries: They carry antioxidants called anthocyanins and polyphenols, which also have anti-inflammatory qualities. 1 cup per day is suggested. • Spirulina (blue-green algae): It contains phycocyanin , omega fatty acids and lots of protein. Take 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon daily in capsule form or added to drinks but aware that, for some, spirulina can be overstimulating like caffeine. • Flaxseed: It contains omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. The fiber aids against colon cancer; the fatty acid helps clear plaque and bad fats from the body. 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed daily is recommended. Ten food switches to improve your health 1. Diet soda - water 2. White bread - whole grain bread 3. Milk chocolate - dark chocolate 4. White wine - red wine 5. Soda - tea 6. 1/4 of sugar in a baking recipe - the same amount of non-fat powdered milk 7. 1/4 of your meat - lentils 8. 1/4 of your meat - fish 9. Regular yogurt - low-fat or fat-free yogurt 10. Bag of potato chips - apple slices • Hypertension • High total cholesterol or high levels of triglycerides 25% off Five foods for added years And the news only gets worse: Other recent research found that overweight Americans get sicker late in life more than normal-weight people and also die prematurely. So, what’s a food lover to do??? First, you need to evaluate your household members and the state of their weight/health. Then, take an assessment of your cooking practices and eating habits. Next, you have to decide if some changes are in order to improve the overall health of your family. Finally, you’ll want to implement some strategies for cooking and eating for healthier living in 2007. Below are a few tips and guidelines from various sources. Epicure promises to do our best to provide you with more tips throughout the year and to focus on healthier recipes in the columns. Wishing you a healthy new year! Jacqui Love Marshall lives in Danville with her vintage-car-loving husband, two pugs and binders of recipes. E-mail her at Epicure@ DanvilleWeekly.com. Strategies for healthier eating The suggested caloric intake for adults is 2,000 calories per day. Try to maximize the nutrition you get out of your calories. Tommy Thompson, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, said: “There is a correct number of calories for you to eat each day, [and] if you use up the entire amount on a few high-calorie items, chances are you will not get the full range of nutrients that your body needs.” Try these suggestions, courtesy of the American Heart Association: • Choose lean meats and poultry without skin and prepare them without added saturated and trans fat. • Select fat-free, 1 percent fat, and low-fat dairy products. • Cut back on foods containing partially hydrogenated vegetable oils to reduce trans fat in your diet. • Cut back on foods high in dietary cholesterol. Aim to eat fewer than 300 milligrams of cholesterol each day. • Cut back on beverages and foods with added sugars. • Choose and prepare foods with little or no salt. Aim to eat fewer than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day. • If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation. That means one drink per day if you’re a woman and two drinks per day if you’re a man. (In)Take it s-l-o-o-o-w A recently released study by nutrition scientists at the University of Rhode Island reveals that eating slowly could lead to less caloric intake. The study of two groups of women—one that was asked to eat slowly and another that was asked to eat quickly—showed the women who ate slowly consumed less food and reported feeling fuller, longer. Slow eaters were asked to use a small spoon, take small bites, chew their food 15-20 times and put the spoon down between bites. The researchers who conducted the URI study estimate that eating slowly could reduce the number of calories a person eats by about 210 per day. The slower-eating women also drank more water between bites. The URI research team is planning a follow-up study to see if that factor contributed to the feeling of fullness. L I V I N G NOW SHOWING REGISTER NOW FOR WINTER CLASSES www.alamore.org The Good Shepherd ★★ Rating: R for some violence, sexuality and language 2 hours, 40 minutes. Despite covert operations, betrayal and the man who knew too much, director Robert De Niro’s fictional take on the founding of the Central Intelligence Agency lacks two key components of the spy genre: suspense and action. Matt Damon has the thankless job of playing the emotionless, dour Edward Wilson, a man bound by duty and buttoned-up gray suits to “save America.” Where’s Jason Bourne when we need him? Screenwriter Eric Roth (“Munich” and “Forrest Gump”) crafts a cryptic main character closer to surveillance expert Harry Caul in Coppola’s paranoia classic “The Conversation” than any spy who came in from the cold. The drama opens with a black-and-white sex film taken surreptitiously by someone, somewhere. Like Caul, Wilson (Damon) plays the audio over and over again to glean information, and he peers through his wire-rim glasses at the grainy footage for visual clues. He hears the words “secret” and “cochinas” (pigs in Spanish). The recording is central to the question driving the narrative: Who is the mole who forewarned Fidel Castro about the U.S.-planned invasion and attempt to overthrow his government, causing the Bay of Pigs fiasco in 1961? Most of this very slow-paced movie gives Wilson’s back story through a series of flashbacks within flashbacks. Instead of adding layers of color and complexity to the protagonist, the past events provide a just-the-facts laundry list of Wilson’s formative experiences and convictions. These range from his disgraced father’s (Timothy Hutton) suicide to his n w o Ne n s i a p Ex Skull and Bones initiation at Yale, wedding to a pregnant bride (Angelina Jolie) and recruitment into government service by a fedora-wearing FBI agent (Alec Baldwin). Edward Wilson is a good shepherd who combines his love for America with the detailoriented talents that make him first a good detective and then a deliberate, dispassionate company man. He doesn’t kill mano-a-mano, but he gives the orders that result in torture and death. In short, he’s a dull character. Archival newsreel footage unspools an equally boring history lesson of World War II and the Cold War years. See Edward Wilson. See Edward Wilson’s involvement in these events and what will become standard CIA operating procedures. When a former Yale professor (Michael Gambon) urges him to “get out while you still have a soul,” you really won’t care. The payoff comes quietly at the end, as the personal and the political collide with chilling consequences. —Susan Tavernetti Alamo Parks & Recreation Recreation Classes for All Ages! 50% Discount for CSA R-7A Residents See the January issue of Alamo Today for the Alamo Acivities Guide For more information call (925) 451-9176 or email alamorec@sbcglobal.net P l an yo u r ne x t p a rt y w i t h us Business Meetings Banquets Holiday Parties Company Parties Wedding Dinners Anniversary Team Parties Showers Ro New o m Ba Av n q a i uet la bl e Great Food Great Fun Great Atmosphere 500 Sycamore Valley Road West, Danville, In the Livery 925-831-3644 Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 21 OF NOTE $10,000 for Down Syndrome The Knights of Columbus Council 9206, associated with St. Joan of Arc Parish in San Ramon, had a successful charity golf tournament, wine tasting, auction and awards banquet and raised $10,000 for the Down Syndrome Connection of Danville. This group’s programs help parents cope with the multitude of special issues that arise from their children’s birth and throughout their lives. Rocking live in Atlanta The Home Builders Association of Northern California Women’s Council based in San Ramon collected $15,000 in cash and gift cards plus thousands of pounds of food to give to those in need. The Food and Gift Drive is held to mark Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, which is the week before Thanksgiving. The collection benefited Shepherd’s Gate, Shelter Inc. of Contra Costa County, the Family Emergency Shelter Coalition in Hayward, Mission Solano of Fairfield, and the Community Action Partnership of Sonoma County. Presenting the Past B Y B E V E R LY L A N E WOOD FAMILY COLLECTION Four Alamo youths will be among 25 talented young people traveling to Atlanta, Ga., from Jan. 12-15 to perform at the prestigious Broadway Junior Theatre Festival. Joey Borromeo, Shannon Donley, Hailey Hunger and Dallas Morris are part of a contingent from Walnut Creek Civic Arts Education’s Junior Theatre company who will perform scenes from “School House Rock Live!” They will give the show locally in February. Last year the Civic Arts performers danced away at the festival with the Best Choreography award for their production of “Dear Edwina!” The students raise funds for their trip and welcome donations. Call 943-5846. “This is such an incredible opportunity for our students,” said Junior Theatre director Mina Meehan. “They meet other young performing artists from around the country and have a chance to attend some wonderful seminars in addition to performing their show.” Home Builders collect for those in need Pastoral past In the 1930s, Black Angus cattle are seen grazing near today’s Sycamore Valley Park with Short Ridge in the background. According to one rancher, “Two slaughter houses served the valley, Moller in Dublin and the Walnut Creek Meat Company on Ygnacio Valley Road. They purchased local animals and did custom slaughtering.” Reiser Group promotes Briganti Reiser Group, an Alamo company specializing in the home building industry, has promoted Steve Briganti to vice president of operations. Briganti joined the Reiser Group in April 2006 as director of operations to oversee corporate operations, information technology and strategic planning. Before that he was corporate vice president and general manager at a division of General DynamicsNetwork Systems, and he also has held executive positions at wireless technology start-up, Mobilisa Inc., and serves on the board of Fathom Online Inc. Before entering commercial business, Briganti commanded a U.S. Navy aviation squadron and ran the Navy’s multi-billion dollar global deployment of its Intranet. He served as an advisor to the Secretary of the Navy and was Chief of Staff to the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations. Briganti earned an undergraduate degree from University of North CarolinaChapel Hill; he holds masters degrees in public policy and was a U.S. Navy Fellow at MIT. He also performed doctorate studies while a Federal Executive Fellow at the Hoover Institution, Stanford University. The Reiser Group serves builders of residential homes, new subdivisions, urban infill developments, mixed-use projects involving residential, and condominium conversions. Founded in 1999, it has been one of the fastest-growing businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area and has recently expanded into Sacramento, Reno and Orange County. Broadcasting ➤ Continued from page 18 Jumpstart Your New Year Medical Weight Loss Physician-supervised and private Free initial consultation in January How much do you want to lose? 925-277-1123 2301 Camino Ramon, Ste 290 www.jumpstartmedicine.com Page 22 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly San Ramon Conrad Lai, MD includes smiling and looking at the camera, giving eye contact to the interviewee and speaking concisely. One of the most important elements in a television production is being comfortable with one’s self and others in front of the camera, said Nelson. “Common advice is to recognize is that the camera is your best friend,” Traylor said. “Everybody’s got a best friend.” He also said taking deep breaths can help them to relax in front of the camera. Nelson said the fifth-graders have produced stories on the lighting of the Danville Oak Tree for the Christmas holidays, Danville firemen and the construction of new buildings on campus. “These video productions enhance students’ understanding of current events and their local community through a visual medium,” said Nelson, who was a producer of KNBR radio’s “Frank and Mike in the Morning” show in San Francisco. Traylor said VGTV can have a huge impact on a student’s growth. He noted that working in the program has helped one student with her acting classes. Another student in a speech class has gained self-confidence in front of the camera. “There are such a variety of skills in kids,” he said, noting that they learn to hone them by being involved with VGTV. “I enjoy it immensely,” he said. ■ Marketplace Danville Weekly INDEX ■ BULLETIN BOARD ■ 100-155 FOR SALE ■ 200-270 KIDS STUFF Bulletin Board 115 Announcements * DEADLINE * 140 Lost & Found FOUND NECKLACE, AQUATIC CENTER CALL TO CLAIM LOST: SMALL WHITE DOG-Crow Cyn Flea Meds , healthfulpets.com For Sale 201 Autos/Trucks/ Parts Harry’s Muffler & Brake 183 Wyoming St Pleasanton CA 94566 $35 OFF LABOR with coupon Go or Chinese Lessons - $15/$20 133 Music Lessons Guitar Lessons 417.0561 w/Brett $31.00 HARP LESSONS for all ages Try something new for Fall! Call Benneta Heaton (925) 820-1169 ~ located in Danville ~ MUSICAL THEATER CAMP SUMMER 2007 PIANO-VOICE-MUSIC-FILM CLASSES 3 Lazy Boy Chairs 1 never used & 2 are 3 years old 925-989-7550 8â ? Gold taper Candles - $6 Coffee Table - $75 Drop Leaf Table - $600 FOLDING METAL PATIO BAR $50 925-820-8433 Miniature House Collection - $50/set Oak dining table & 6 chairs Oak dining table, 38x74” w/leaf, 6 chairs w/upholstered seats. $200.00 925-484-1227 245 Miscellaneous 6” joiner - $150 or BO Love Pregnancy? $22,000 - Become a Surrogate! Make dreams come true. Carry someone else’s baby who can’t without help. Professional agency to support your journey. www.SurrogateWeb.com 1-800877-4438. (Cal-SCAN) Donate Your Car to the original, 1-800-CHARITY Cars. Fair market value deduction if we provide your car to a struggling family. Call1-800-CHARITY. (1-800-242-7489) www.800charitycars.org (Cal-SCAN) World Guitar Show! Buy, Sell, Trade. Marin Civic/San Rafael, January 13-14, OC Fairgrounds/C Mesa, January 20-21, Saturdays 105, Sundays 10-4. Bring your gear!! www.TXShows.com (Cal-SCAN) Vitamaster Treadmill - $100. 2 White patio chairs, 5 baskets - $1 - $5 WICKER DESK w/Glass Top & Chr $75 Donate Vehicle, running or not accepted! Free Towing. Tax Deductible. Noahs Arc - Support No Kill Shelters, Animal Rights, Research to Advance Veterinary Treatments/Cures. 1-866-912-GIVE. (Cal-SCAN) 250 Musical Instruments 2 White patio chairs, 5 baskets - $1 - $5 White and Green throw - $15 Dodge 2000 Durango 4X4-silver-new tires-new brakes, 79K $8900.00/OBO 925-570-5663. Steel Buildings. End of Year Factory Specials. 40x60 to 200x300. Must clear out inventory. Rigid 1-800-658-2885. (Cal-SCAN) 10 taper Candles - $8 Whirlpool 30’ white StoveTop $95 - $95 Chrysler 2003 PT Cruiser Limited ED #500659-call:925 858-3537 Sawmills From Only $2,990.00—Convert your Logs to Valuable Lumber with your own Norwood portable band sawmill. Log skidders also available. www.NorwoodIndustries. com -Free Information: 1-800-578-1363 x300-N. (Cal-SCAN) 260 Sports & Exercise Equipment Desk & Credenza - $50 Place your ad early! ASHIATSU CLASSES! - CALL 240 Furnishings/ Household items Complete Exhaust Systems Catalytic Converters, Flowmaster Custom Exhaust Systems Tuesday 11:59 PM 130 Classes & Instruction GRATEFUL DREAD RADIO Diverse sounds for open minds: The Internet radio station for musical adventurers presents its freeform, eclectic mix of rock, reggae, jamband, blues, americana, folk, country, roots music, worldbeat, ska & more... plus progressive news, talk, comedy and tons of peace & love. We’re bringing groovy back... yeah! Tune in and turn on... GRATEFUL DREAD RADIO lives at http:// gdreadradio.net FREE Bedroom Suite - $400 925-600-0840 x12 Huge Antique Auction Sat. January 6th@ 1 p.m. Preview @ www.WendlersAuction.com Bidding available online via www.LiveAuctioneers. com & www.eBayLiveAuctions.com 951695-7523 (Cal-SCAN) Hand Stitched Pillow - $3 925-462-3237 through the business office 120 Auctions Antique Drop leaf table - $599 230 Freebies Tuesday 12 Noon Avoid the last-minute rush - 215 Collectibles & Antiques Royal Doulton Bunnykins Mug and - $10 FANCY RATS - $5 to $10 The Pleasanton/Danville Weekly Classified Advertising deadline is: through Fogster.com THE TRI-VALLEY’S FREE CLASSIFIEDS WEB SITE Combining the reach of the Web with print ads going to over 80,000 readers! TO RESPOND TO ADS WITHOUT PHONE NUMBERS GO TO FOGSTER.COM 155 Pets 330-355 ■ JOBS 510-585 ■ BUSINESS SERVICES 600-690 ■ HOME SERVICES 700-799 ■ FOR RENT/ FOR SALE REAL ESTATE 801-860 fogster.com Building Sale! Jan/Feb delivery or deposit holds till Spring. 25’x40’x12’ $4800. 40’x60’x16’ $12,800. Front end optional. Rear end included. Many others. Pioneer 1-800668-5422 or www.PioneerSteel.com (Cal-SCAN) Cute Conversation Piece - $22.00 Finches For Sale - $5.00 Men’s Duster Jacket sz 3x - $52.42 Lee Progressive 1000 - 125. Kid’s Stuff 330 Child Care Offered www.tanisfamily.com 345 Tutoring/ Lessons BlackhawkBallet.com FRENCH, SPANISH TUTORING Math Tutor PIANO, VOICE, AND MUSIC INSTRUCT Summer Theater Camp TUTORING- Elementary Pleasanton teacher $30/hr M-F 4-7pm 925-462-6720 www.YoungIvyAcademy.com 350 Preschools/ Schools/Camps ABC Preschool/Childcare - 484-2554 Hacienda School 355 Items for Sale booster &step, potty, potty seat - $5—$10 Polaroid Joycam - $8 cribe stuffs & boy’s clothes - $5-$15 Power Wheelchairs & Scooters at little or no cost to seniors/disabled with Medicare, MediCal or Insurance. Free Delivery, Training and Warranty. ProHealth Mobility. 1-877-740-4900. www.ProHealthMobility.com (Cal-SCAN) Personalized Storks for Yard - $75/$45 Mind & Body 425 Health Services Volvo 2004 XC90 2.5T AWD - $29,750 Products to help you lose weight $varies Livermore, 5281 Southfront Rd., 1/13 & 1/14 9-3 Large farmyard, household estate sale. Old farm equip., tools, R/R ties, welding rod, fuel tanks, lunch pails, furniture household goods. Pleasanton, 3267 Sunday, Jan. 7 Kevin Court, Finding the right people for the job is fast and simple! Caregivers / CNA/ HHAs Immediate openings for experienced caregivers to assist elderly clients in their homes. Hourly, live-in and overnight shifts available. Great pay rates, flexible schedules full medical benefits and bonuses paid. 510-7957383 VISITING ANGELS - Fremont office DRIVER FOR SENIOR MEALS Meals on Wheels driver needed in Pleasanton, 10-12, M-F. Must have car and clean DMV. Hourly pay with gas reimbursement. Call Julie at (925) 931-5385 Hospital Human Resources DIRECTOR, $65,748 - $80,268 annually plus benefits, County of Kern Kern Medical Center Bakersfield, CA, apply: www.co.kern.ca.us/person/pers. asp visit: www.KernMedicalCenter.com 1-661-326-2640 “Equal Opportunity Employer” (Cal-SCAN) HOUSECLEANERS NEEDED Good Wages ~ Weekly Pay Ideal Hours ~ Paid Mileage Car, CDL & insurance are necessary Call Merry Maids / Pleasanton (925) 462-0991 NANNIES NEEDED!!! Awesome Positions! No Fee! $13-18/hr A Nanny Connection 925-743-0587 www.nannyconnection.com READERS/DRIVER NEEDED $10/hr 10 hrs/week. Computer skills required. Light Office work and local traveling. Call 925-895-2778 560 Employment Information Detention Officer: Phoenix, Arizona, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. $14.99/hr. Excellent benefits. No Experience Necessary. Contact 602-307-5245. 1-877-3526276, or www.MCSO.org 400 vacancies, including civilian positions. (CalSCAN) Driver $5K SIGN-ON Bonus for Experienced Teams, Temp Control, Dedicated (guaranteed miles), Regional (home weekly). Solos, Teams, CDL-A Grads, L/P, O/Os. Covenant 1866-684-2519 EOE. (Cal-SCAN) Driver Don’t Just Start Your Career, Start It Right! Company Sponsored CDL training in 3 weeks. Must be 21. Have CDL? Tuition Reimbursement! wgreen@crst. com 1-800-781-2778. (Cal-SCAN) Driver Experienced & Trainees Needed. Earn up to $40k+ next year. No experience required. $0 down. CDL Training Available. Central Refrigerated 1-800727-5865 x4779. (Cal-SCAN) Driver Experienced & Trainees Needed. Earn up to $40k+ next year. No experience required. $0 down. CDL Training Available. Central Refrigerated 1-800727-5865 x4779. (Cal-SCAN) Driver - ASAP 36-43cpm/$1.20pm + Sign On Bonus. $0 Lease New Trucks. CDL-A +3 months OTR. 1-800-635-8669. (Cal-SCAN) Driver: TAKE CARE of your Family. Join ours. Consistent miles, regional and dedicated runs. Company paid Commercial Drivers License training. www.SwiftTruckingJobs. com 1-866-476-6828. EOE. (Cal-SCAN) Firefighter & EMT. Paid OJTraining. Physically fit and under age 34. Min H.S. Grads. Relocate. Benefits. Call 1-800-345-6289. (CalSCAN) SMOG INSPECTION $35 ( ) Spe cial with + $8.25 CERT coupon EPPS TEST ONLY CENTER 925-462-1097 No Appointments Necessary! 183-B Wyoming St., Pleasanton • Mon-Sat 9-5 Pleasanton Guitar Studio Folk • Rock • Blues • Country Jazz • Celtic • Ragtime • Classic on 600-0840 A Travel Job 12 new hires, over 18, travel coast-tocoast with co-ed business group! $500 signing bonus. Return guaranteed. Call Shirley 1-866-786-3860. (Cal-SCAN) Start Your Own Landscape Curbing Business- High Demand. Low Overheads. High Profit. Training Available. Priced from $12,000. 1-800-667-5372. www.EdgeMaster.net (Cal-SCAN) TriValleyTrainer.com (dublin/pleasanton/livermore) HOME SERVICES Advertisers call A National Sport & Fashion firm has immediate openings for sharp energetic people. Make great money and see the USA. Must be 18. Call 1877-646-5050. (Cal-SCAN) 455 Personal Training Consult fogster.com PLACE YOUR FOGSTER AD HERE! 500 Help Wanted A box of baby boy’s clothes etc. - $10 Plus Size Evening Dresses All Cash Candy Route Do you earn $800 in a day? Your own local candy route. Includes 30 machines and candy. All for $9,995. MultiVend, LLC 880 Grand Blvd., Deer Park, NY 11729. 1-888-625-2405. (Cal-SCAN) Jobs A box of 2 years old boy clothes - $15 Ford Wheels/tires 2000 F-250 - $175 210 Garage/Estate Sales 550 Business Opportunities PLACE YOUR FOGSTER AD HERE! Beginners to Advanced Students ~ Have fun playing songs or solo guitar pieces ~ (925) 570-0828 experienced, professional guitarist / B.M. Berklee College of Music Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 23 MARKETPLACE the printed version of THE TRI-VALLEY’S FREE CLASSIFIED WEBSITE TO RESPOND TO ADS WITHOUT PHONE NUMBERS GO TO WWW.FOGSTER.COM fogster.com Business Services 601 Accounting/ Bookkeeping Fabulous Friends A Pet Sitting Service Licensed & Bonded Serving Pleasanton/Dublin sbnbart@comcast.net Nicki Bartels 925.989.4586 NEED HELP WITH QUICKBOOKS? Over 18 years experience in all aspects of bookkeeping. No job too big or too small! Call Linda at 925-918-2233 659 Sewing/Tailoring Custom Designed Sewing Work 604 Adult Care Offered Draperies, Bedding, Pillows, Cushions, Embroidery, Alterations and More! References available. ELDERLY CAREGIVER Live In / Out. Light housekeeping, meal preparation, errands and personal care. Call Kristi (925) 216-8718 737 Fences & Gates 719 Remodeling/ Additions Borg Redwood Fences BAYWOOD CABINET INSTALLATION Quality Craftsmen will install your kitchen/bath cabinets. Call 925 575-0425 for your Free Estimate CA Lic# 883922 Bonded & Insured Contractors, over-booked? We can help you too! Fences • Decks • Retaining Walls Arbors • Heritage Vinyl Fencing RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL “Unsurpassed Quality at Reasonable Prices” Insurance Work 426-9620 REMODELING CONTRACTOR Additions, bathrooms, windows, doors, interior trim, whole house. A+ References ~ Insured Lic# 503716 Dan (925) 575-1892 726 Decor & Drapery Contact Lina, 925-249-1298 Sylvie (RN) and Rebecca will find the professional caregiver who matches your needs. PLACE YOUR FOGSTER AD HERE! We will help YOU stay in YOUR home with maximum independence. ❖❖ R-S PROCARE ❖❖ HOME HEALTH SERVICES Rebecca (925) 788-2503 Sylvie (925) 890-7424 One-Day Interior Redesign Color Consultation, Decorating and Staging 925.998.7747 ■ jilldenton.com DESIGN REMIX 925-964-9066 bareilles@comcast.net 605 Antiques & Art Restoration 715 Cleaning Services “A Labor of Love” Antique Furniture A+ / ISABEL’S HOUSECLEANING Local business since 1980 Residential is our specialty 925-846-9603 Restoration & Repair BETTY'S OFFICE CLEANING Affordable ~ Reliable 17 Yrs Experience Cleaning schedule as you require! 925-497-8369 Fax 925-429-3861 Lic# 5002770 / Bonded 925-462-0383 Impeccable Quality & Integrity of Workmanship 615 Computers Andrea’s Cleaning Serice Personalized Cleaning Home & Apartments Quality Work, Dependable & Affordable Weekly, Biweekly, Monthly—as you need! *Serving Pleasanton, Livermore, Dublin* Refs Avail / Free Estimates / 10 Yrs Exp Computer Help Tri-Valley PC MEDIC 2006 Diablo Magazine "Best of the East Bay" Call 925-339-2461 Ken Cook "I Make House Calls!" 730 Electrical Electrical Design & Construction Outdoor Spa Hook-up Patio Lighting • Recessed lighting & ceiling fans • Expert troubleshooting & repairs • BBB - 6-year honor roll member • Bonded & Insured CA Lic #673809 M-F 8a-8p / Wknds & Hols 9a-6p Lic #011068 ~ PCC, PDA & BBB Call 485-9040 or 989-7722 I Buy Mortgage Notes Trust Deeds, AITD’S, Land Contracts. Get all cash today. Top Dollar, no red tape. Call Mel. Days: 800-843-1111 Evenings: 323-936-2000. (Cal-SCAN) 650 Pet Care/ Grooming/Training HAVE FRIENDLY PEOPLE WASH YOUR PETS! ED’S CLEANING SERVICE Comm./Resid.-carpets, floors, upholstery, window cleaning - European Job American Price 925-609-7822 MARTHA'S CLEANING SERVICE - All Types of Cleaning Move In/Out Our Specialty! 10 Yrs Exp ~ Dependable, Quality Service 925-997-4669 MERRY MAIDS One Less Thing To Worry About We are insured, bonded & tailored to meet your needs 925-462-0991 STI 754 Gutters GUTTER & DOWNSPOUT CLEANING Affordable Service ~ Free Estimates ~ 510-502-2729 (c) A+ HANDYMAN SERVICES - Serving the Danville area Exceptional Service Guaranteed! Call 925-785-7652 HAULING & TREE SERVICE Yard & Garage clean-up / Dump runs / Appliance and Furniture removal / Tree and Shrub trimming & removal Tree Experts! Low Rates / Free Estimates 925 899-5655 GABRIEL’S HAULING & CLEAN-UPS Handyman Services and Creative Landscaping Available One call does it allno job too small! M AT E 771 Painting/ Wallpaper BAY CITY ELECTRIC INC. 925.606.8260 PAINTING by CAMBRIDGE 925-462-0655 ❄ Winter Special - 10% off ❄ SPACE FOR YOUR FOGSTER AD! Pet Sitting Services 925.846.4956 ¥ joyfurtado@hotmail.com Page 24 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly Call (925) 963-3907 775 Paving/Asphalt/ Concrete DANVILLE CONCRETE Stamped Concrete, Patio, Sidewalk, Driveway, Pool Deck, Retaining Wall. Any concrete finishing (925) 736-8042 Accommodating Healthy and Special Needs Pets Trained professional, daily visits, basic home care, reliable & caring. —Serving Pleasanton / Livermore Only— Call Monika Harris 417-0424 Registered Veterinary Nurse Livermore, 3 BR/2.5 BA - $615000 Livermore, 4 BR/2 BA - $578900 Pleasanton, 4 BR/3 BA - $1,224,999 Pleasanton, 5+ BR/2.5 BA Fixer $849950 high 9-1M $ area agt 925 426 1111 830 Commercial/ Income Property Livermore Office/Warehouses 840 Vacation Rentals/Time Shares 783 Plumbing PLUMBING SOLUTIONS All Plumbing repairs, water heaters, copper repipes, sewer/gas lines. Lic#839285 Call (925-895-8845 790 Roofing ATTENTION HOME OWNERS! * Are you 100% waterproof? * Do you have dry rot? * Are you in need of roof repair? We can save you BIG MONEY - don’t delay! ---------------------RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL 32 Years Expert Roofing ~ Family Owned & Operated ~ FREE EST/ SENIOR DISCOUNTS Real Estate Inspection $150 until 06/2007 Leak Detection / Tile / Gutters Skylights / Fire-safe Wood Shingles & Shakes ----------------------- ALTAMONT ROOFING DESIGNS 925-460-0500 925-339-4084 Lic# 360176 Real Estate 803 Duplex Pleasanton, 3 BR/2.5 BA - $2,400/Mon Beautiful Maui Condo $235 a night! Book for one week and get $50 off per night in this spacious 2 bdrm, 2 ba, private paradise at Kahana Sunset. Sleeps 7, 2 lani’s, ocean view, private beach. Email jlevas@4thejordangroup.com or call 800-310-3310 for availability and more info. SKI & BEACH Rentals http://proper ties2rentyahoo.com 925.846.5962 845 Out of Area Arizonas Best Bargain! 36AC - $59,900. Perfect for private retreat. Endless views, beautiful setting w/fresh mountain air. Abundant wildlife. Secluded with good access. Financing available. Call AZLR 1-877-301-5263. (Cal-SCAN) Wyoming Ranch Dispersal 35 acres - $49,900; 75 acres $95,900. Snow-capped mountain views. Surrounded by gov’t land. Abundant wildlife. Recreational paradise. Low taxes. EZ Terms. Call Utah Ranches, LLC. 1-888-703-5263. (Cal-SCAN) 850 Acreage/Lots/ Storage 1st Time Offered 40 acres - $39,900; 80 acres - $69,900. Near Moses Lake, WA. 300 days of sunshine. Mix of rolling hills and rock outcroppings. Excellent views, private gravel roads, ground water and easy access! Financing available. Call WALR 1-866-585-5687. (Cal-SCAN) 855 Real Estate Services UCB Real Estate 805 Homes for Rent FREE REPORTS AND RESOURCES For all the resources you need to make the correct financing decision - visit: EastBayLoanTips.com or call (800)-348-5780 Ext 2002 (Free, 24 Hr Recorded Hotline) 815 Rentals Wanted Property Management http://proper ties2rentyahoo.com 925.846.5962 825 Homes/Condos for Sale Dublin 1 Year Hoa Paid, 3 BR/2.5 BA - 589,888 Caring for your kitties in your home Daily Visits ¥ Licensed ¥ Bonded PAINTING & POWERWASH Residential and Commercial Interior/ Exterior - No Job too small! Reasonable rates / Exc. references Quality Interior & Exterior Furry Friends your kitty s well being is precious to me... BUCKET and BRUSH Member BBB 759 Hauling AFFORDABLE & RELIABLE FREE E 624 Financial E.C. CLEANING SERVICE Res/Com ~ 10 Yrs Local Exp Move In/Out, Weekly/Bi-Weekly Licensed~Insured~Exc. 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We Offer an Exclusive One-on-One Personal Training Facility W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G I N O U R C O M M U N I T Y Art • STRENGTH & POWER DEVELOPMENT • LIFESTYLE & WEIGHT MANAGEMENT • BOXING FITNESS WORKOUTS • CARDIOVASCULAR FITNESS • SPORT-SPECIFIC TRAINING • PERSONAL DEFENSE TRAINING WEEKEND PREVIEW Auditions High School Musical Danville Children’s Musical Theatre will hold open auditions for Disney’s “High School Musical” from 4-6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 10, at Village Theatre, 233 Front St., Danville. Applicants should be ages 10-16 years old. Cost to participate is $350. Call 355-8605. Ruthless! the Musical, Bus Stop and School for Scandal Role Players Ensemble Theatre will hold auditions for “Ruthless!,” “Bus Stop” and “School Scandal” by appointment only, at Village Theatre, 233 Front St., Danville. Actors should prepare a two-minute monologue, and singers should bring 16 bars of an up tempo number. Call (510) 865-4740. Author Visits Rakestraw Hosting Authors Rakestraw Books will host numerous authors throughout the beginning of the new year including: John Schinnerer, author of “A Guide to Self,” at 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 18; Eoin McNamee, author of “The Navigator,” at 10 a.m., Monday, Feb. 12; Peggy Orenstein, author of “Waiting for Daisy: A Tale of Two Continents,” at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 20; Alison Weir, author of “Innocent Traitor,” at 7 p.m., Thursday, March 17, all at the bookstore, 409 Railroad Ave., Danville. For reservations, call 837-7337. Civic Meetings San Ramon Mayor State of the City Address San Ramon Chamber of Commerce presents the Mayor State of the City Address from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 9, at Bridges Golf Club, 9000 South Gale Ridge Road, San Ramon. Cost is $25 for members, $30 for non-members. Call 242-0600 or visit www.sanramon.org. Danville Farmers Market Barry E. Anderson, Fitness Director The Danville Farmers Market is open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Saturday, at the Railroad Avenue Municipal Parking Lot, at the corner of Railroad and Prospect avenues. Call 825-9090 or visit www.pcfma. com. FILE PHOTO Alamo-Danville Artists’ Society This society will present a group showing of art work until Jan. 16, at the Danville Town offices, 510 La Gonda Way. The offices are open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday. Ann McMillan Alamo-Danville Artists Society will host a demo with oil and pastel painter, Ann McMillian, at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 9, at Danville Congregational Church, Social Hall, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. This event is free. Dessert and refreshments will be served. Call 6915030 or visit www.adas4art.org. Winter Exhibit The California Watercolor Association will host its annual Members’ Winter Exhibit from now until March 9, at Blackhawk Plaza, 3480 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. Call 648-9113. NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist B.A. Degree from Harvard University ACE Certified Personal Trainer 925-867-3488 3120-D Crow Canyon Road HealthandFitnessPlus.net Discover Something New and Exciting! Thousands of Designer Pieces to Fit Your Lifestyle… New Stock Everyday All at Consignment Prices. Classes Adult CPR Town of Danville will host a CPR class for ages 12 and up from 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 20, at Los Cerros Middle School Community Gym, 968 Blemer Road, Danville. Cost is $45 for residents, $53 for non-residents; plus $18 for materials and certification. Register by visiting the Danville Community Center, 420 Front St. or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us. More Than Just a Furniture Store DANVILLE 925-866-6164 SARATOGA 408-871-8890 LOS ALTOS 650-917-8526 SAN MATEO 650-577-8979 SAN RAFAEL 415-456-2765 1901 Camino Ramon 600 El Paseo de Saratoga 400 Main St 1888 S. Norfork 863 E. Francisco ➤ Continued on page 26 Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 25 C A L E N D A R Divorce and Raising Kids Community Presbyterian Church will host two classes for adults on “Moving Forward After Divorce” from 7-9 p.m., Wednesdays, for 12 weeks starting Jan. 10 and “Got Kids? For Parents Who Want to Raise Great Kids” from 7-9 p.m., Wednesdays, for five weeks starting Jan. 10, at the church, 222 W. El Pintado Road, Danville. The classes and childcare are free. Call 837-5525, ext. 319, e-mail mike@cpcdanville.org or visit www.cpcdanville.org. Financial Planning for Special Needs Children Town of Danville will offer a free class for parents with special needs children to help them gain a better understanding of government benefits and legal and financial plans from 6:30-8 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 17 and Feb. 21, at the Danville Library, 400 Front Street. Registration is required, call 314-3392 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us. Alamo Women’s Club Federated The club meets on most Wednesdays at its clubhouse, 1401 Danville Blvd. It holds a business meeting and tea the second Wednesday at noon; meets for Mah Jong at 10:30 a.m. the third Wednesday; and holds a luncheon with program at noon the fourth Wednesday. For information, call Jean Stringfellow at 552-9733. Alamo-Danville Newcomers’ Club This club is open to new and long-time residents of Alamo and Danville interested in making new friends in the area. Their Prospective Member Coffee is held the fourth Thursday of the month, and a monthly luncheon on the second Tuesday. Call 775-3233 or visit www. alamodanvillenewcomers.com. Bay Area Single Christians BASC club is a free, large, online group with event listings for Christian single adults around the S.F. Bay Area. See information at http://groups. yahoo.com/group/bascsingles/. Blackhawk Republican Women This club will host a cocktail party with guest speaker Dr. Bill Wattenburg, host of “The Open Line to the West Coast” on KGO, from 5:30-8 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 18, at the Blackhawk Country Club, in The Grill, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive, Danville. Cost is $16; reservations are due by Jan. 15 by calling 820-6452. Business Development Network BDN is a group of professionals that share resources and develops business through relationships. It meets Clubs Alamo Cribbage Club The club plays cribbage for fun. It meets at 6:15 p.m. every Wednesday at the Safeway conference room, 200 Alamo Plaza, Alamo. Call 935-3325. Alamo Rotary The Alamo Rotary meets at noon every Wednesday at Roundhill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road. Call Mark Kahn at 837-3262. FEEL AND LOOK GREAT IN 2007!! Lose 10-30 lbs in 2 weeks Tahara Detox Weight Loss Program leads YOU • To reduce/stop your current medications. • To cleanse Body ( G.I tract, Liver) • To lose more FAT • To change eating habits Call for a FREE Consultation (925) 249-9642 Detox Weight Loss Center 4725 First Street #270 Downtown Pleasanton www.taharacenter.com Senior Independence! Select Your Caregiver • Up to 24 hour care • Meal Preparation • Errands/Shopping • Hygiene Assistance • Light Housekeeping • Respite Care for Families • Rewarding Companionship • Experienced Caregivers • You Select Your Caregiver! Free In-Home Consultation !MERICAS#HOICEIN(OMECARE 925.552.6500 www.jmhomecare.com 16 Crow Canyon Court Suite 200, San Ramon Page 26 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly 7:45-9 a.m., the second and fourth Thursday of each month at Denny’s, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. Call Bonnie at 648-0222. Business Network International The Danville Chapter of Business Network International, a world-wide networking organization that focuses on helping local businesses grow through building strong networking relationships, meets at 7 a.m. every Friday at Denny’s Restaurant on Camino Ramon. For information, call Glenn Polanco at 831-3372. Danville AM Toastmasters Club The club meets from 7-8:30 a.m., every Tuesday, at Father Nature’s, 178 E. Prospect Ave. Guests are welcome. For more information, contact Dave Miklasevich at 899-1543 or dmik210@yahoo.com or www. danvileamtoastmasters.org. Danville Lions Club The Danville Lions Club meet on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Brass Door Restaurant, 2154 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. Join us as our guest to learn the contribution you can make as a Lion. For information, call President Ted Fichter at 2276617. Danville Mid-day Referral Group, BNI Danville Mid-day Referral Group, a chapter of Business Network International, meets from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., every Wednesday, at Louka’s, 267 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Call Fran Bates at 363-4327 or e-mail franbates@ marykay.com. Danville PM Toastmaster Club #1785 The club meets from 7:30-9 p.m., every Wednesday, at DVC, San Ramon Campus, Room 217, 3150 Crow Canyon Place, San Ramon. Guests are welcome. For information call Debra Elmore at 934-3113 or visit www.danvilletoastmasters1785.com Food and Wine Book Group This group will begin to discuss Brian Doyle’s “The Grail: A Year Ambling & Shambling Through an Oregon Vineyard in Pursuit of the Best Pinot Noir in the World” at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 23, at Rakestraw Books, 409 Railroad Ave., Danville. For reservations, call 837-7337. Friends of the Danville Library Friends of the Danville Library are renewing annual memberships and recruiting new members to help support, raise funds and sponsor programs for the Danville library. There are many benefits of being a Friend including merchant discounts, volunteer opportunities and preview of book sales. Dues and donations are tax deductible. Application forms are at the library, 400 Front St. Call 837-4455. Julie’s Book Clubs The morning book club will meet to discuss Sylvia Plath’s “The Bell Jar” at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Jan. 26, and the evening book club will meet to discuss Alison Lurie’s “Truth and Consequences” at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 17, at Rakestraw Books, 409 Railroad Ave., Danville. call 837-7337. Tri-Valley Republican Women Federated This club will host a dinner meeting with guest speaker Ward Connerly at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 11, at Pleasanton Hotel (formerly Wyndham Garden Hotel), 5990 Stoneridge Mall Road. New members and visitors are welcome. For reservations, call Marilyn at 485-9869. Tri-Valley Writers Association This club exists to inform, educate, and have fun and is open to anyone interested in the craft of writing. The club meets at 11:30 a.m. the first Saturday of every month at Girasole Restaurant, 3180 Santa Rita Road, Pleasanton. Contact Steve Workman at 485-1011 or skworkman@aol.com. Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 75 The organization meets every second Thursday of the month and will start up the new year with their first meeting, Thursday, Jan. 11, at Danville Veteran’s Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. For information, call Post Commander Mac McCuskey at 8372740 or visit www.vfw.org. Concerts A Garden of Delights Pacific Chamber Symphony presents “A Garden of Delights” featuring Beethoven, Brahms and the U.S. debut of Russian pianists at 3 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 11, at Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, 49 Knox Drive. Tickets range in price; call 931-3444. Contemporary Music Concert Civic Arts Education presents “Contemporary Music Concert” at 2 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 14, at Shadelands Art Center, 111 N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Advance tickets are $10; $12 at the door. Proceeds will benefit CAE. Call 943-5846. Instumental Music Benefit Concert San Ramon Valley High School will host their Instrumental Music Benefit Concert featuring San Jose Taiko at 7 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 10, at SRVHS Performing Arts Center, 140 Love Lane, Danville. Visit www.communityconcerts.com. John McCutcheon Community Concerts presents John McCutcheon at 8 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 20, at The Wesley Center, 902 Danville Blvd., Alamo. Tickets range in price. Visit www.folkmusic.com. Events Eugene O’Neill Foundation Awards Ceremony Eugene O’Neill Foundation will present awards during a special dinner on Wednesday, Jan. 24, at Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Call 820-1818. Street Smarts Skate Nights City of San Ramon and Golden Skate present Street Smarts Skate Nights from 6:30-9 p.m., the third Wednesday of the month, at Golden Skate, 2701 Hooper Drive, San Ramon. Admission is $8 including • Secured by Real Estate • 1st and 2nd Mortgages • Interest Paid Monthly • Licensed Broker for 25 years • IRA, 401K Approved skates, $4 for in-line skates and parents skate for free. Police will presents “Seat Belt Safety” on Jan. 17. Call 820-2520 or 973-2655. Tour of the Blackhawk Museum Blackhawk Museum sponsors a docent-led tour of the museum’s Renowned Exhibitions at 2 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. The tour is free with admission. For information, call 736-2280. Valley Parent Preschool Open House Valley Parent Preschool will host an open house with a tour of the school and a chance to meet the director and staff from noon-2 p.m., Friday, Jan. 19, at 935 Camino Ramon, Danville. Call 837-5401 or visit www. valleyparent.org. Exhibits Anatomy of a Hot Rod Bedford Gallery presents Anatomy of a Hot Rod, which will run until Feb. 11, at the gallery, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Gallery hours are noon-5 p.m., Tuesday-Sunday. Call 295-1417. European Train Enthusiasts Blackhawk Museum presents the European Train Enthusiasts exhibit from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., WednesdaySaturday, running until Jan. 7, at the museum, 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. The exhibit will include 360’ of track, 57 turn-outs, 35 working signals and more! Call 736-2277. Fundraisers Claws for Paws Tri-Valley Animal Rescue will host Claws for Paws second annual Crab Feed from 6-10 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 27. Cost is $40 before Jan. 10 and $45 after. To purchase tickets, visit www.tvar.org, email events@tvar.org or send a check to TVAR, P.O. Box 11143, Pleasanton. Music Flea Market San Ramon Valley High School Band will host a Flea Market from 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 20, at SRVHS Cafeteria, 140 Love Lane, Danville. Proceeds will benefit the band’s tour. Call 552-5580. Traditional Hymns and Classical Concert Traditional Hymns and Classical Concert will feature Tom Lucia, Covenant Four, Danville Community Band, Salvation Army Band at 7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 26, at Rolling Hills Community Church, 1565 Green Valley Road, Danville. Tickets are $15. Proceeds will benefit Outdoor Adventure Faire. Call 820-3874 or email info@christkidsports.org. Health Free Massage Seminars World School of Massage will offer two free seminars: “Lymphatic Breast Health: Clothes-On Self-Massage Techniques for Men and Women” is from 2:30-4 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 11; and “My Feet Feel Great” from 4:306 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 25, both at World School, 699 Peters Ave., Suite A, Pleasanton. Call 461-2533 or visit www.worldschoolmassage.com. ‘My Own Marathon’ Town of Danville will host “My Own Marathon” with participants completing 26.2 miles at their own pace until May 5. The final mile will be walked May 5 during “A Safety and Wellness Community Event.” Call 314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us. Open Gym Town of Danville is offering Adult Open Gym from 7:30-9:15 a.m., Saturdays, and High School Open Gym, 6-8 p.m., Sundays, both at Los Cerros Middle School Community Gym, 968 Blemer Road, Danville. Discounted pass cards are $4 for residents, $5 for non-residents. Call 314-3386. The Wellness Community The Wellness Community offers different support groups for cancer C A L E N D A R patients and their family and friends including: Newly Diagnosed Breast Cancer Workshop meets from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Jan. 10-April 25; Kids Circle & Teen Talk meets from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 13; Reiki I and II from 3-5 p.m., Tuesdays, Jan. 16, 30 and Feb. 13 and 27; African Drumming Circle from 5:30-6:30 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 18; Integrating Spirituality and the Cancer Experience from 10 a.m.noon, Saturday, Jan. 20; Mindful Chi Kung from 3:30-5 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 25; and an Update on Breast Cancer Treatment from 10 a.m.noon, Saturday, Jan. 27, all at The Wellness Community, 3276 McNutt Ave., Walnut Creek. Call 933-0107. Weekly Marathon Training Program East Bay FIT (formerly Danville FIT) will host weekly marathon training at 8 a.m., starting Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Iron Horse Trail at the corner of Railroad and Prospect avenues, Danville. Visit www.danvillefit.com. Kids & Teens Spanish for Preschoolers Town of Danville will host a new class, “Spanish for Preschoolers,” for children ages 3-5 years old meeting from 9-11 a.m. on Tuesdays, Jan. 9March 6, at Veteran’s Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Ave., Danville. The cost for Danville residents is $222, $266 for non-residents. An additional $20 materials fee will be due on the first day of class. Call 314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us. VIP Volleyball Clincics Town of Danville will host VIP Volleyball Clinics for children ages 8-14 at 5:30 p.m., Saturdays, beginning Jan. 13, at Los Cerros Middle School Community Gym, 968 Blemer Road, Danville. Cost is $55 for residents, $66 for non-residents. Call 314-3481 or visit www.ci.danville. ca.us. YMCA Activities The San Ramon Valley YMCA hosts a number of activities including Adventure Guides/Princesses, Adventure Trailblazers, Youth Basketball, Youth Lacrosse and Youth Soccer for children of all ages. For information, call 831-1100 or visit www.mdrymca.org. Lectures/ Workshops Literary Events First Wednesday Programs The Friends of the Danville Library and the Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley sponsor First Wednesday programs in the Mt. Diablo Room of the Danville Library, 400 Front St., at 1 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month, October through May, with the exception of January. The next program will be about “Glorious Cotswold Villages” on Feb. 7. The program is free and everyone is welcome to attend. Call 938-7323. Miscellaneous Climb for Breast Cancer Prevention The Breast Cancer Fund is looking for applicants for “Climb for Breast Cancer Prevention” from July 8-14, at Mt. Shasta. Team members will start training in the winter and start raising funds. Call 760-8223 or visit www. breastcancerfund.org/events. Free E-Waste Disposal and Recycling Electronic Waste Management and Diablo Valley College will host a free E-Waste Disposal and Recycling event from noon-5 p.m., Friday, Jan. 5 and from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 6-7, at DVC, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill. A list of accepted items can be found by visiting www. noewaste.com. Host Families Needed Host families are needed for French Students that will be visiting from Beziers, South of France from Feb. 9-23. Students will have daily activities. For information, contact Kevin at 984-7691 or k.dimler@sbcglobal. net. Open House and Blood Drive American Red Cross will host an open house from 9 a.m.-noon and a blood drive from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 6, at the Concord Office, 1300 Alberta Way. Call 603-7400. On Stage ‘Incorruptible’ Role Players Ensemble will host the production of “Incorruptible” at 8 p.m., Thursdays-Saturdays and at 2 p.m., Sundays, Jan. 19-Feb. 10, at the Village Theatre, 233 Front St., Danville. Tickets are $18-24. Call 314-3463. The Reduced Shakespeare Company Center REPertory Company presents The Reduced Shakespeare Company performing “The Complete History of America-Abridged” and “All The Great Books-Abridged” from Feb. 1-March 3, at The Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Call 943-7469. Seniors Senior Sneaker Trips Town of Danville will host Senior Sneaker Trips to different attractions throughout the area. For a list of dates, go to the Danville Community Center at 420 Front St., call 314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us. St. Isidore’s ‘Young at Heart’ Join this group for a meeting from 11:15 a.m.-2 p.m., the third Tuesday of every month at St. Isidore’s Ministries Center, 440 La Gonda Way, Danville. Optional Mass starts at 11:15 a.m.; lunch starts at 11:45 a.m. Nonprofit bingo follows. This event is free, but reservations are appreciated by calling 820-4447. Valley Oak Respite Center Activities for Seniors Valley Oak Respite provides an interactive program for frail seniors and those afflicted with Alzheimer’s or related dementias and physical disabilities, from 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1936 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. The cost is $25 per session, which includes a morning snack and beverage; participants should bring a bag lunch. For information or an application, call Carmen McCarthy at 945-8040. Danville. The deadline for registration is Thursday, Jan. 11. Cost is $330 for residents, $396 for non-residents. Call 314-3386. Support Groups American Chronic Pain Association The ACPA group meets from 11a.m.-1p.m. every second and fourth Monday at the Community Presbyterian Church Library at 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville. Bipolar Support Group The Tri-Valley Support Group provides free peer support for people with mood disorders. It meets from 7:15-8:45 p.m., every Wednesday at St. Clare’s Episcopal Church, 3350 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton. Call 560-0842. Blue Star Moms California Blue Star Moms is a support group for families of members of the U.S. Armed Forces. It meets at 7 p.m., the second Wednesday of the month, at the Danville Veterans Hall, 400 Hartz Ave. Call Peggy at 866-7035 or Patty at 838-9096 or visit www.bluestarmoms.org. Cancer Support Groups Free support, education and stress management for cancer patients and their loved ones, including general support groups for all types of cancer patients as well as cancer specific groups for breast cancer, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, brain tumor, support groups for caregivers and life after cancer. Groups meet at the Wellness Community, 3276 McNutt Ave., Walnut Creek. For times and days, call 933-0107. ➤ Continued on page 28 Spiritual Bridging the Gap San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church will host a series of sermons calling “Bridging the Gap” after the 8:30 a.m. or 10 a.m. sermon, starting at 11:15 a.m., Sundays, Jan. 7, 14, 21 and 28, at 902 Danville Blvd., Alamo. Call 837-5243. Sports 5 on 5 Basketball Town of Danville will host 5 on 5 Basketball starting Thursday, Jan. 18, at Los Cerros Middle School Community Gym, 968 Blemer Road, Crafting the Financial Roadmap of Your Startup East Bay I.T. presents “Crafting the Financial Roadmap of Your Startup” from 6:30-9 p.m., Monday, Jan. 8, at Crown Plaza Hotel, 11950 Dublin Canyon Road, Pleasanton. Cost is $10 with pre-registration, $20 at the door. Visit www.ebig.org. Entering the Entrepreneurial World Technology Ventures will host “Entering the Entrepreneurial World” from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 17, at Carr America Conference Center, 4400 Rosewood Drive, Pleasanton. This event is free, but registration is required by calling 960-1600. Getting the Banker to Yes Contra Costa Small Business Development Center will host “Getting the Banker to Yes” from 7-9 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 11, at the Concord Library, 2900 Salvio Street, Concord. This event is free, but registration is required by calling 646-5377. Historic Lecture Series San Ramon Historic Foundation and San Ramon Valley Library Foundation will host a Historic Lecture Series of six programs. Each program will start at 7 p.m., Thursdays, at various different locations. The next lecture will be about Spanish/Mexican History by Dr. Gregorio Mora-Torres on Jan. 18. All programs are free, but donations are accepted. Call 973-3281. Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 27 C A L E N D A R We’ve Been Helping Students Achieve Academic Success for 9 Years. We’re Now in Pleasanton! Register Online at millcreekacademy.com '\QDPLF 6$7 ,6$7,,3UHSV :ULWLQJ0DWK &ODVVHVIRU 0LGGOH+LJK6FKRRO6WXGHQWV 6PDOO&ODVVHV7DXJKWE\'HGLFDWHG7HDFKHUV Still Enrolling for Our Winter/Spring Session 2007 Monday, February 5 to Thursday, May 10, 2007 Call us at 925-469-6227 (MCAP) for more information or email:directors@millcreekacademy.com M I LL CREEK A C A D E M Y, L L C 4473 Willow Road, Suite 150, Pleasanton, CA 94588 Next to Hart Middle School High Standards • Excellence • Ethic s • Re sults! ClutterLess Self Help Group Is clutter stressing you out? This group meets from 7-8:30 p.m., every Monday (except on a holiday) at Pleasanton Presbyterian Church, Room 7, 4300 Mirador Drive. Call 297-9246 or 426-5311. Danville TOPS The Danville chapter of Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) meets at 9 a.m., every Tuesday at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, 1550 Diablo Road. Call Bob Blendow at 935-9344 or Rosemarie at 838-7870 Man to Man Prostate Cancer San Ramon Regional Medical Center offers “Man to Man Prostate Cancer Support Group” from 7:30-9 p.m., the second Tuesday of every month, at San Ramon Regional Medical Center, South Building, West Day Room, 7777 Norris Canyon Road. Call 933-0107. Overeaters Anonymous The group offers a 12-step approach to issues around food, overeating, anorexia and bulemia. It meets from 78 p.m., every Tuesday at the Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd. No fees. Call Susie at 275-1391. Parkinson’s Support Group The Tri-Valley Parkinson’s Network of Mount Diablo provides peer support from 10a.m.-noon, the second Saturday of every month, at Pleasanton Senior Center, 5353 Sunol Blvd., Pleasanton. Call Norman at 831-9940 or Jackie at 244-1231. PFLAG The Danville/San Ramon Valley Chapter of Parents Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) is a support group that meets at 7:30 p.m., every third Monday at the Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Call 8388632. San Ramon Valley Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue and Chronic Pain Support A new and proactive group for FIBRO, CFS, CFIDS and Chronic Pain meets from 7-9 p.m. every other Monday in Danville. This group is positive, informative that meets to help each other to be better advocates. Call for location and information at 234-5621. SRV Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) is a free 12-step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating and bulimia. This group meets from 7-8:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Dougherty Station Community Center, West Meeting Room #202, 17011 LUNCH . DINNER Chosen Best Place for Dessert by Diablo Magazine 925.314.0974 2416 San Ramon Valley Blvd. San Ramon Page 28 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly Come experience our new menu and Chef Esin's Desserts Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon. Call Gordon at 899-3117 or visit www. foodaddicts.org. Volunteering Assistance League of Diablo Valley This chapter of the National Assistance League seeks new volunteer members to help with a wide range of philanthropic service projects in many Contra Costa communities. These include vision screening in elementary schools, distributing clothing to school children in need, daily reassurance phone calls to homebound elderly and handicapped clients, and staffing the chapter’s Lafayette thrift shop. Call 934-0901 or visit http://diablovalley.assistanceleague.org. Bedford Gallery Guild The Bedford Gallery Guild is looking for volunteers to donate time at the art gallery in the Dean Lesher Regional Center for the Arts. No prior art knowledge required. Contact Susan Helms at 837-0716 or sjhelms1@prodigy.net. Blackhawk Museum Docent Training If you are interested in becoming a much appreciated part of the Blackhawk Museum family while contributing to your community, making new friends, learning new things, and having fun, become a docent! Call 736-2280, ext. 238. CCI Volunteer Puppy Raising Program Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) are looking for special volunteers interested in raising a CCI puppy for 15-18 months and are now accepting applications. For information, call 1-800-572-BARK (2275) or visit www. cci.org. Child Abuse Prevention Council The Contra Costa County Child Abuse Prevention Council needs volunteer speakers for the community education program. Volunteers must complete a mandatory 24-hour speaker’s training course. For information, call 9469961. Christmas Tree Fish Habitat Project East Bay Regional Park District is looking for volunteers to help create an artifical reef to improve habitat for reservior fish at 8 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 6, at Del Valle, 7000 Del Valle Road, Livermore. Call (510) 544-2342. Contra Costa Academy of Fine Art The academy seeks new volunteers and members to help with tasks ranging from bookkeeping to recruiting instructors. The group meets noon-1 p.m., the second Friday of the month at Richard’s Art & Craft Store, 225 Alamo Plaza, Alamo. Call Beth Batchelor at 837-5654. Diablo Valley Literacy Council Diablo Valley Literacy Council (DVLC) is looking for volunteers to help nonEnglish speaking adults learn to read, write and speak English. Tutor-training workshops will be held Friday, Feb. 24; Monday, Feb. 27; and Friday, March 3, at DVLC, 4000 Clayton Road, Concord. Cost is $15 for registration. Call 685-3881. Friends of Discovery Discovery Counseling Center has received more than $5 million, thanks to Friends of Discovery. The organization is looking for volunteers who can commit eight hours per month in the Thrift Station, 486 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Call Le Anne, 8377998. Help Your Senior Neighbors A lot of Danville seniors need rides to their appointments, stores or to special events. The Seniors’ Club at Veterans Memorial Hall is looking for volunteers to provide rides on an “as-needed basis” on one or more Mondays a month. Call Jenn Overmoe at 314-3476 for more information. Hospice and Palliative Care of Contra Costa This organization is looking for volunteers to help serve in East Contra Costa County. Positions open are: men and women to provide companionship and practical support for terminally ill patients and families, licensed hair stylists and certified massage therapists. Free annual training will begin Jan. 17. Call 887-5678 or e-mail volunteers@hospicecc.org. Hospice and Palliative Work at Bruns House Hospice and Palliative Care of Contra Costa Bruns House In-Patient Hospice is looking for volunteers to fill two- to four-hour shifts during the weekdays and weekends. For an application, call 887-5678 or e-mail volunteers@ hospicecc.org. Lindsay Wildlife Museum Docents are needed to lead class tours, teaching children and others about our important connection with wildlife and the world we share. No experience needed. Call 627-2444 or visit www.wildlife-museum.org. Make a Difference Reutlinger Community for Jewish Living (RCJL) in Danville provides assisted living, Alzheimer’s and skilled nursing care in a community our residents call home. Volunteers play a key role at RCJL and opportunities are availabe for students and adults. For information, call Volunteer Coordinator Irma at 964-2098. Project Second Chance Help an adult to read, write or spell better with Project Second Chance (PSC). Training is from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 17 and continues from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 20 and 27, at the PSC office, 75 Santa Barbara Road, Pleasant Hill. Call 9273250 or email psc@ccclib.org. Rides for Seniors in Lafayette Rides for Seniors, based in Lafayette, is looking for volunteers (25 years and older) to allow seniors “to age in place” in their homes and be safe when transported to a doctor appointment or grocery shopping. If you are available for a couple of hours periodically, call 284-6699. Fingerprinting and DMV background check required. Search and Rescue The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team needs volunteer members to respond to missing person incidents, disasters and other critical incidents. Team members are on call 24/7 year round. The program provides required training including wilderness traveling, first aid, map and compass, tracking disaster response and search skills, and may additionally include special training for canine, equestrian, technical, mountain bike or other rescue skills. For information and applications, visit www.contracostasar. org or call 646-4461. Sheriff Seeks Senior Volunteers The Sheriff’s Valley Station Office in Alamo is seeking people interested in assisting law enforcement in the community. Citizens should have a clean criminal history and would be responsible for one shift a week for four-anda-half hours. Interested applicants should call James Hogan or Elmer Glasser at 837-2902. Trails Maintenance East Bay Trail Dogs is an all-volunteer group that has built, repaired and helped maintain single-track trails in the East Bay Regional Park District, the Mt. Diablo State Park, and Walnut Creek open space. Volunteers meet the fourth Saturday and one weekday each month. To participate, call Harry at 443-3925. Tri-Valley Animal Rescue TVAR is offering volunteer orientations from 1-2:30 p.m., the second Saturday and fourth Saturday of every month, at the East County Animal Shelter, 4595 Gleason Drive, Dublin. For information, contact Cathy at 4262472 or calicocathyb@yahoo.com. Valley Children’s Museum Needs Volunteers If you are interested in working with kids, Valley Children’s Museum is looking for you! For information about volunteer opportunities, call 461-6574, 3 # or email Linda@valleychildrensmuseum.org. Volunteer Interpreters The California Medical Association seeks community volunteer interpreters for Contra Costa County to assist physicians when other interpretation resources are not an option. If you possess a proficiency in any foreign language and experience interpreting in a health care setting, you are encouraged to apply. Contact CMA at (866) 241-4262, or e-mail communityvip@cmanet.org. Sports A L O O K AT T H E L O C A L S P O R T S S C E N E Monte Vista girls beat hosts, take basketball tournament Mustangs start season undefeated in 14 preseason games by Rachel McMurdie M onte Vista girls basketball team took a 45-32 win, to beat host school Newark Memorial at the Newark Lady Cougar Classic Championship on Dec. 30. Senior Kerry Beeman led the Mustangs with 4 rebounds 11 points. Anina Middleton and Niveen Rasheed each with 3-point goals, had 7 and 9 points respectively. The Mustangs, undefeated after 14 preseason games, start the season Monday with an away game at Foothill High. San Ramon Valley girls basketball team ended 2006 with a third-place win at the Costa Mesa Tournament in Southern California. Their Dec. 30 game against Sagus High School went 48-43 in the Wolves’ favor. Junior Mary Kate Tengler and senior Katie Falk were named All-Tournament players. Falk, who had 21 points, led scoring against Costa Mesa. The Wolves (6-7 overall) will host Granada on Monday. Boys basketball San Ramon Valley boys basketball team beat Palo Alto 64-49 for a third-place win in the St. Francis Tournament on Dec. 30 at St. Francis High School in Mountain View. The Wolves (10-5) were hot from the 3-point line. Score leaders Dan Daviess, with five 3-point goals, and Joey Fuca with three 3-point goals, had 17 points each. PREP SCHEDULE Senior Vai Schierholtz, who also sunk three 3-point shots, added another 13 points. Junior Brenton Thomas added 14 points. Thomas and Fuca were selected for the AllTournament team. Monte Vista also brought home a win to cap off the 2006 year, beating Green Valley 58-50 at a tournament in Henderson, Nev., on Dec. 29. Girls soccer San Ramon’s Jillian Armstrong’s hat trick (scoring three goals) and assist capped off the Wolves fourth game of the Tri-Valley Classic soccer tournament Dec. 22. The Wolves beat Texas school Nolan Catholic 4-0 for a fifth-place finish in the Invitational Division. San Ramon Valley (7-2-1 overall) opened the tournament the day prior with a 3-0 win against Hockaday High and a 0-1 loss to Mayfair High. In the tournaments’ AB invitational division, Monte Vista cruised For a routine checkup, an occasional tune-up, or a major overhaul, choose a professional that has unique tools to help you reveal or recover Lasting Love. “Forever Together” Mark J. Stone Ph.D., CMP, CPC, CHT Marriage & Relationship Counselor 925-736-9700 Blackhawk www.markjefferystone.com Monday, Jan. 8 Boys Basketball: Monte Vista vs. Foothill, 7 p.m.; San Ramon Valley at Granada, 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: Monte Vista vs. Foothill, 7 p.m.; San Ramon Valley vs. Granada, 7 p.m. IS YOUR BATHROOM IN NEED OF REPAIR? We Specialize in Kitchens and Baths Lamorinda Home Repair Tuesday, Jan. 9 Boys Basketball: Monte Vista vs. Cal High, 7 p.m. Girls Basketball: Monte Vista at Cal High, 7 p.m. Boys Soccer: Monte Vista at Granada, 5:45 p.m.; San Ramon Valley vs. Amada, 5:45 p.m. San Ramon Valley boys fell to the Cal Grizzlies in a 2-1 overtime battle over the Gold Division Title of the Winter Soccer Classic on Dec. 22. Wolves’ goalkeeper Tommy Corner made 13 saves to keep the team alive through the shooting spree of California’s Andrew Wiedeman, who took home all-tournament honors. San Ramon had previously outscored its opponents 10-0 early in the tournament. The team earned its second straight shutout in a 4-0 game against Newark Memorial. During that game, Wolves player Antone Ugarte netted a hat trick. He had a total of five goals scored during the tournament. ■ E-mail photos to Editor@ DanvilleWeekly.com. Charlene Beasley Lic#0C26292 Beasley Insurance Services 925-803-9799 www.beasleyinsurance.com Plans as low as $39 00 per month *Based on HealthNet PPO-HSA plan for singles age 19-29 Free Quote go to www.beasleyinsurance.com We do the best we can with the tools we have. Sometimes, we just need new tools! Girls Soccer: Monte Vista vs. Alumni, 11 a.m. Boys Soccer: Monte Vista at Alameda, 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 10 Boys soccer Or do you just need individual or group health coverage at affordable rates? Call today to save money! Tools for Lasting Love Saturday, Jan. 6 Girls Soccer: Monte Vista vs. Granada, 5:45 p.m.; San Ramon Valley at Amador, 5:45 p.m. Wrestling: San Ramon Valley vs. Granada, 7:30 p.m.; Monte Vista at Foothill, 7:30 p.m. to a second-place finish, beating Miramonte 4-1 in the team’s final game Friday, Dec. 22. Are you paying too much for COBRA? Campo di Bocce of Livermore CORPORATE EVENTS FAMILY GATHERINGS REHEARSAL DINNERS EXCELLENT FOOD FULL SERVICE RESTAURANT Repairs and Remodeling • Residential & Commercial FREE ESTIMATES CALL US! WE CAN HELP All Phases Of Home Construction and Repair • • • • • • Windows Doors Skylights Tile Dry Rot Decks • • • • • • Retaining Walls Fences Baths/Kitchens Plumbing Electrical General Repairs 313-8956 There is no reason to call the electrician, plumber & carpenter. Our technicians can do it all and at a lower cost. 16 years in the Contra Costa area. Your single source for quality home repair. BONDED LIC. #578751 • INSURED Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 29 Real Estate O P E N H O M E G U I D E A N D R E A L E S TAT E L I S T I N G S S A L E S AT A G L A N C E HOME SALES This week’s data represents homes sold during December 2006 Danville Total sales reported: 12 Lowest sale reported: $487,000 Highest sale reported: $1,335,000 Average sales reported: $1,017,750 Alamo Total sales reported: 3 Lowest sale reported: $1,015,000 Highest sale reported: $2,200,000 Average sales reported: $1,455,000 Walnut Creek Total sales reported: 27 Lowest sale reported: $335,000 Highest sale reported: $1,900,000 Average sales reported: $754,352 See more open home listings online at www.DanvilleWeekly.com Your hometown newspaper away from home Page 30 • January 5, 2007 • Danville Weekly Source: California REsource Danville 38 Alamo Springs Place Corrie Development to R. & L. Tomczak for $1,000,000 252 Balceta Court Kremer Trust to Golden Trust for $1,110,000 2103 Carmenere Street Lennar Homes to J. & E. Quintor for $1,122,000 1227 Culet Ranch Road D. & B. Brown to T. & K. Robone for $766,000 338 Deepcreek Court O. Dantzler to H. Vaughn for $1,250,000 3551 Deer Crest Drive Szulborski Trust to R. & S. Campagna for $1,335,000 1482 Greenlawn Drive S. & R. Delmar to M. Stabulis for $487,000 101 Kingswood Circle Scalzo Trust to S. Jester for $955,000 78 Milano Court J. & C. Brear to C. Hildebrand for $1,075,000 2164 Myrtle Beach Lane Harrison Trust to J. & C. Morrow for $770,000 528 Norfolk Place A. & L. Kazemimejad to J. Sinclair for $1,143,000 564 Verona Avenue Okeefe Trust to M. & T. Laird for $1,200,000 Alamo 2021 Green Valley Road Rh Trust to Johnson Trust for $2,200,000 141 Kell Court M. & M. Zakerin to G. & N. Banton for $1,150,000 1959 Parkmont Drive Campbell Trust to J. & A. Lantzy for $1,015,000 Walnut Creek 1315 Alma Avenue #312 Alma Development to D. & K. Stypula for $584,000 81 Arbolado Drive Gertsen Trust to M. Curran for $850,000 1908 Bolbones Court Galat Trust to M. Vantruong for $905,000 1308 Boulevard Way #A Bobbs Trust to K. Carroll for $394,000 743 Buena Vista Place J. Wells-True to N. Dadwal for $695,000 2055 Cactus Court #4 Tarr Trust to D. & J. Marcellini for $337,000 629 Creekmore Court A. Borgognone to F. & L. Kattan for $1,030,000 30 Garden Court Romo Trust to S. Wong for $640,000 443 Gentry Court Clifford Trust to B. Min for $1,290,000 2600 Jones Road #8 J. John to S. Sherwood for $339,000 3085 Oak Grove Road Fitzpatrick Trust to Oak Grove Group for $1,900,000 2550 Oak Road #209 Bridgeport Commons to B. Yung for $445,000 2685 Oak Road #250 N. Asuncion to J. MacDonald for $440,000 2730 Oak Road #4 A. & S. Eden to C. & C. Cave for $335,000 186 Panoramic Way T. & P. King to R. & D. Phillips for $735,000 3659 Perada Drive J. & D. Evans to D. & A. Dale for $899,000 345 Pimlico Drive Eidbo Trust to M. Vasquez for $649,000 3318 Ptarmigan Drive #3A D. & D. Rosenberg to Fitzpatrick Trust for $827,500 312 Ridgestone Court C. & S. O’Neill to M. & L. Horng for $1,306,000 2354 Roan Lane Brennan Classic Homes to Williams Trust for $1,050,000 R E A L E S TAT E OPEN HOMES THIS WEEKEND To list your home in the Danville Weekly Open Home Guide, please email: OpenHomes@DanvilleWeekly.com Danville 2 Bedrooms 2200 Oneida Cir. Sun 1-4 Keller Williams 2 Bedrooms $660,000 577-5510 7787 Chantilly Dr. Sun 1-4 Alain Pinel $885,000 200-2525 3983 Strafford Ct. Sun 1-4 Keller Williams 5 Bedrooms 231 Stetson Dr. Sun 1:30-4 Hometown GMAC $1,150,000 998-9747 $949,500 968-1452 $950,000 855-4050 5 Bedrooms 3399 Norton Wy., #1 Sun 1-4 Alain Pinel 108 Mission Dr. Sun 1-4 Coldwell Banker 5610 Belleza Dr. Sat/Sun 1:30-4:30Keller Williams 792 Daisyfield Ct. Sun 1-4 Pat Huffman RE $849,000 698-4422 5 Bedrooms 2336 Rockpoint Pl. Sun 1-4 Keller Williams $1,269,000 216-5108 ATTENTION EAST BAY REALTORS $1,095,000 968-1452 3 Bedrooms 7943 Kemper Ct. Sun 1-4 Keller Williams $1,025,000 397-4326 Contact your Weekly real estate account executive for details. 879 Oak Manor Wy. Sat/Sun 1-4 Windermere $2,299,000 922-0822 Livermore 3 Bedrooms Effective Jan. 1, 2007, the Pleasanton Weekly and the Danville Weekly are charging a $20 fee for Open Home Guide listings from individuals and organizations not under a current 52- or 26-week contract with the publications. The fee will be incurred for each listing and must be prepaid. $379,000 621-4085 $439,950 548-7112 $529,950 997-8267 4 Bedrooms Walnut Creek 2716 Oak Rd., #101 Sun 1:30-4 Alain Pinel $765,000 397-4326 2 Bedrooms $924,500 968-1452 4 Bedrooms 624 Dromana Ct. Sun 1-4 Alain Pinel $699,950 200-4130 $769,000 583-1121 Pleasanton 3 Bedrooms 23 Stow Ct. Sat/Sun 1:30-4 Alain Pinel 2408 Hollyview Dr. Sun 1-4 Alain Pinel 65 Foster Dr. Sun 1-4:30 Intero $524,500 968-1452 6905 Bear Creek Dr. Sun 1-4 Coldwell Banker 5772 Arlene Wy. Sun 1-4 Alain Pinel 3 Bedrooms San Ramon 3111 Marble Canyon Pl. Sun 1-4 Alain Pinel 4 Bedrooms Dublin Terry Bertolini Danville Weekly (925) 837-8300, ext. 24 Chris Paterson Pleasanton Weekly (925) 600-0840, ext. 10 2 Bedrooms $450,000 642-0365 1085 Murrieta Blvd., #123 Sun 1-4 Prudential CA $359,950 980-5711 For all your mortGage needs... creating financial solutions 925.963.2125 moRtgage consultant 185 Railroad Ave, D ANVILLE , CA 94526 R EAL E STATE L IC # 01721354 Danville Weekly • January 5, 2007 • Page 31 #/--)4-%.4 3INCETHEINCEPTIONOFTHE)NTERO&OUNDATIONINOURAGENTSHAVEGIVEN OVER TO"AY!REANONPROlTSDEDICATEDTOCHILDRENINNEED !T)NTEROEVERY)NTEROAGENTISCOMMITTEDTOGIVINGBACKTOOURCOMMUNITYBYDONATINGTOTHE)NTERO&OUNDATION !å"RIGHTERå4ODAYå&OUNDATION $IABLOå6ALLEYå!SSISTANCEå,EAGUE 0ROJECTå(ELP !LUMå2OCKå#OUNSELINGå#ENTER $ISCOVERYå#OUNSELINGå#ENTER 1UILTå-USEUM !SSISTANCEå,EAGUEåOFå3ANå*OSE $OWNSå3YNDROMEå#ONNECTION 2APEå4RAUMAå#ENTER "ARRETTå%LEMENTARYå3CHOOL %STRELLAå&AMILYå3ERVICES 2EBEKAHå#HILDRENSå3ERVICES "ARRETTå(OMEå3CHOOLåå#OMMUNITYå#LUB &AMILYå#ONNECTIONS 2OLEå-ODELå0ROGRAM "AYå!REAå!LLIANCEåFORå9OUTHå&AMILYå3VCS &RANKLINå-C+INLEYå%DUCATIONå&OUNDATION 3ANå&RANCISCOåERSå!CADEMY "AYå!REAå#RISISå.URSERY &RIENDSå4OGETHERå)NC 3HELTERå)NCåOFå#ONTRAå#OSTAå#OUNTY "UENAå6ISTAå!UXILIARY &UTUREå&AMILIES 3ILVAR#HARITABLEå&OUNDATIONå4RUST "UENASå6IDASå9OUTHå2ANCH 'ENERATIONSåINå*AZZ 3MALLå3TEPS "URNETTå%LEMENTARYå3CHOOL (ELLYERå%LEMENTARY 3OCIALå!DVOCATESåFORå9OUTH #AMPå(OPE (OUSINGå)NDUSTRYå&OUNDATION 3PECIALå/LYMPICS #AMPå4AYLOR )NTERFAITHå#OUNCILåOFå#ONTRAå#OSTAå#OUNTY 3TARTINGå0OINTå!RTS #ARLMONTå-OTIVATIONALå#ENTER ,ETå4HEMå(EARå&OUNDATION 3UPERå3TARSå,ITERACYå0ROGRAM #HILDRENSå(OSPITALå"RANCHES ,IVINGå,EARNINGåå,OVINGå#ENTER 4HEå3ALVATIONå!RMY #OMMUNITYå3OLUTIONS -ONTALVOå!RTSå#ENTER 4HEå7ELLNESSå#OMMUNITY #ONCORDå9OUTHå#ENTER .!-)å#ONTRAå#OSTA 5PWARDå"OUNDå9OUTH #ROSSå#ULTURALå#OMMUNITYå3ERVICEå#ENTER .ATIONALå!LLIANCEåOFåTHEå-ENTALLYå)LL 6IAå3ERVICES #UPERTINOå#OMMUNITYå3ERVICES 0ACIFICå!UTISMå#ENTERåFORå%DUCATION 7ESTWINDå2IDINGå)NSTITUTEå æ,OCATIONSæ3ERVINGæTHEæ7ESTERNæ53 )NTERO2EAL%STATECOM "LACKHAWK $ANVILLE /RINDA 0LEASANTON 7ALNUTå#REEK