“All the NewsThat Fits”

59 Arlington AvenueKensington, Calif. 94707-1037

K E N S I N G T O N

OO UU TT LL OO OO KKMarch 2005 A publication of the Kensington Community Council Volume 62 Number 2

Nonprofit Org.U.S. POSTAGE

P A I DPermit No 1058Berkeley, Calif.

KMAC member calls county’s answer to Scher “bad law”

Fine Art, food and drink

see page 3

Fire Protection District signs 10-year pact with El CerritoThe Kensington Fire Protection board

approved a new contract with the city of ElCerrito that will provide fire fighting servicesto the village until 2015.

The ten-year contract renewal, approvedby the El Cerrito City Council in December,comes after a two-a-half-year process ofnegotiations.

"We think we provide extraordinary fireand medical service at a very reasonable costand we think it allows El Cerrito to also pro-vide that service," said Janice Kosel, memberof the Kensington Fire Protection Board. "Byhaving that third station El Cerrito respondsbetter within El Cerrito and by using El

“This is an imposition from the highestlevels of state government on us,” saidKensington resident Tim Hoyer.

KMAC councilmember Richard Karlssoncondemned it as "bad legislation." He said thelegislation is 'vague' and expanded ratherthan limited the use of residential properties.He also said it was also unusual because itplaced the onus on the county to prove a per-mit should not be issued rather than requiringthe landowner to make a case for why a per-mit should be issued.

A number of residents, many who havebeen active in the fight to get the county to haltthe Scher concerts, complained that the legisla-tion weakened the county's residential codeand also included no means for enforcement.

“Basically, this is a permission slip,”said Jack Walker, a Kensington residentwhose said his deck is now like a balcony

land use permits for events held on resi-dential properties that are to benefit nonprofit or charitable organizations. Peratawithdrew the bill only after county offi-cials assured him that it would address theissue at the local level. But Perata, nowconsidered the second most powerful manin the state as president pro tem of the sen-ate, is keeping the heat on the county andis threatening to reintroduce the legisla-tion.

The legislation, which will be consid-ered in April at a County PlanningCommission meeting, received a chillyreception from Kensington residents whoattended a special session of theKensington Municipal Advisory CouncilFeb. 1. The audience of about 30 peopleunanimously rejected the ordinance,including Scher himself.

Artworks created by local artists will be fea-tured in a silent auction during the KensingtonCommunity Council’s annual SpringCelebration. The annual fundraiser for thecouncil is an opportunity for residents to havea night out and meet their neighbors.

Cerrito employees we keep the cost downsignificantly."

A Kensington Fire Protection study of fis-cal 2004 found that its cost of operation stoodat $1.4 million, below the $1.7 million per sta-tion average for El Cerrito and significantlyless than the $3 million Albany spent on itssingle station system.

Kensington began a volunteer fire depart-ment in 1928. In 1937 it formed theKensington Fire Protection District and hireda staff of professional firefighters.

Though Kensington still maintains its ownfirehouse, equipment and fire board, it hascontracted with the city of El Cerrito since

1995 for fire prevention and emergency serv-ices. The current contract with El Cerrito isset to expire July 1.

The new contract will allow El Cerrito toprovide fire, vegetation maintenance andmedical services to Kensington. It doesn'tcarry specific dollar values for services, butinstead assigns a percentage of various coststo Kensington. The actual dollar amounts aredetermined with El Cerrito’s annual budgetprocess and then negotiated if necessary.

With maintenance of a firehouse inKensington the department has been able torespond to a call with an average 4.5 minuteresponse time.

to Scher's amphitheater.The county has taken a firm stance that

Scher's concerts violate zoning laws andthat he must obtain a land use permit tohold them. He has been fined a total of$800 for three of his concerts after pro-longed lobbying efforts from a neighbor-hood group drove the county to take action.

Scher has sought to frame the issue asone of free speech, has argued he is doingnothing many other homeowners havedone by using his home to raise money forcharitable organizations. He has also notedthat the events are held to benefit worth-while causes and not for personal gain.

Neighbors that oppose the events, howev-er, insist they are commercial in nature withScher selling tickets to the public at large,brining more than 200 people to his backyard

BuildingDreams

CRAMPED QUARTERS: Kensington head librarian Liz Ruhland stands by some of the library’s 40,000 piece collection, twice whatthe 40-year-old structure was designed to house.

The Kensington Library is reaching out to thecommunity for ideas about expanding, renovatingand rebuilding the 40-year-old library as it hopes toposition itself for a piece of $600 million in libraryconstruction funds heading toward the ballot in June2006.

The library will hold a town hall meeting withsupervisor John Gioia and Contra Costa CountyLibrary Director Anne Cain to gauge communityinterest and discuss options for the library at 7 p.m.March 21 at the library.

"We are really in the beginning stages," said LizRuhland, head librarian for the Kensington Library."Applications wouldn't be due for about three years,but it's a pretty lengthy process. You can't start this

See “LIBRARY” page 3

Kensington Library eyes possible $600 mil-lion pool tied to June Ballot measure forexpansion, renovation or new construction

see “LAW” page 3

Partygoers attend the 2004 Spring Celebration

Contra Costa County is considering leg-islation intended to allow concert promot-er-turned-philanthropist Danny Scher tolegally hold fundraising concerts at hisCoventry Road home amphitheater.

The Contra Costa CommunityDevelopment Department drafted a proposedamendment to the county code that wouldallow events that are connected with a non-profit or charitable organization on residentialproperties, but would require an administra-tive event permit of a land use permit if cer-tain thresholds are exceeded.

The proposal comes as a result of a bar-gain struck between county officials andstate senator Don Perata, D-Oakland. AtScher's behest, Perata introduced legisla-tion last year that would have prohibitedlocal land use agencies anywhere in thestate from adopting ordinances that require

March 2005 Kensington Outlook Page 2

Kensington Outlook

EditorDaniel S. Levine

editor@kensingtonoutlook.com

Advertising ManagerAlma Key

advertising@kensingtonoutlook.com

The Kensington Outlook is availableonline at www.kensingtonoutlook.comcourtesy of www.aboutkensington.com

Editorial (510) 527-1070Classified Ads (510) 527-1070Display Ads (510) 526-3241

The Kensington outlook is deliveredfree to residents. Non-resident subscrip-tions are available for $10 a year by send-ing a check made payable to KCC to theKensington Outlook, 59 Arlington Ave.,Kensington, CA 94707

The Kensington Outlook is published tentimes a year by the non-profit KensingtonCommunity Council. It is publishedmonthly except for combinedDecember/January and July/Augustissues. For advertising rates, space, avail-ability and size restrictions please call.The editorial and advertising deadline forthe April issue of the Kensington Outlookis March 10. Send mail to: KensingtonOutlook, 59 Arlington Ave., Kensington,CA 94707. The Kensington Outlook wel-comes letters to the editor and reservesthe right to cut and edit those for clarityand length.

© Copyright 2004Kensington Community Council

Kensington Community Councilcontinues annual fund drive

Kensington Park’s Tot Lot is one example ofwhat community donations to KCC do.

The Kensington Community Councilthanks the following people for their recentdonations to its annual fund drive. Thegenerosity of community members pro-vides critical support for Kensington’srecreation and education programs and theKensington Outlook. If you would like tomake a tax deductible contribution, pleasesend it the Kensington CommunityCouncil, 59 Arlington Avenue, Kensington94707.Recent Contributors:

$50

Janet and Charles SeimJean Reilly

March 15 deadlinelooms for applicantsfor KCC job opening

The Kensington Community Council isseeking a new part-time administrator forits community education program to fill anopening that will be created by the depar-ture of Helen Horowitz at the end of June.

Horowitz announced she would stepdown to take the job of district secretary ofthe Kensington Police Protection andCommunity Services District July 1.

Administrative and organizational skillsand experience are required as dutiesinclude hiring KCC instructors; schedulingprograms, classes and events in theCommunity Center, coordinating KASEPand the Summer Day Camp, bookkeeping,publicizing activities and attending theKCC board and KASEP committee meet-ings. Experience working in the recreationfield is preferred.

Applicants should send their resumes

The Kensington Outlook will run its annu-al photo of Kensington's graduating highschool students. To participate in the sen-ior photo please call Irene Wells at 527-0717 or Chris Sorenson at 525-2131.

Graduation photo planned

and references to KCC, Administrative JobSelection Committee, 59 Arlington Ave.,Kensington, CA 94707. The applicationdeadline is March 15. For further informa-tion call 525-0292.

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ovely Kensington 3-bedroom on 7000 sqft. lot. Well-maintained. Hardwood floors throughout. Spacious kitchen. New dual-pane windows, electrical

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Sweeping views from this 3-bedroom,3-bath, 2-story home. Hardwoodfloors, spacious family/dining roomcombination with wainscoting,au pair quarters, workshop, beautifulprivate yard. Call for price.

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the fundraising ordinance fails to meet thecommunity concerns, but said the council waswilling to work with the county on a moreappropriate response in the future if needed.

At press time, supervisor John Gioia hadbrokered a meeting between Scher, represen-tatives of various community groups and sev-eral of Scher's neighbors who have been vocalopponents of the concert. The meeting was setto see if some agreement could be reachedabout an appropriate solution.

Gioia said the county has never prohibitedfundraisers, but the question centers on the natureof an event. He said an ordinance could helpmake clear to property owners and neighborswhat's allowed and what is not.

amphitheater and using amplified sound.Scher, who told attendees at the KMAC

meeting that he is opposed to the county'slegislation, reached out to his neighborsand invited them to meet with him to find apeaceable solution. He also stated he waswilling to make his amphitheater availablefor community fundraising events.

“Let’s put down our swords and talk,”said Scher, who added that he was tired ofavoiding eye contact with neighbors as hewalked around Kensington. But he alsowarned that if neighbors didn't want to talkpeace he was also willing to wage war.

KMAC passed a resolution saying it finds

March 2005 Kensington Outlook Page 3

Fine works of art by local artists will befeatured at a silent auction at theKensington Community Council’s SpringCelebration.

The festivities kick off at 6:30 p.m.Saturday, March 17 at the KensingtonCommunity Center and will feature music, asilent auction and beer, wine and finger foods.

Tickets are $25 per person and availableat the door. Marvin Gardens Real Estateand Andronico’s Market will sponsor thisyear’s event, which benefits the KensingtonCommunity Council’s education and recre-ation programs.

Among the works for sale will be photog-raphy from Joseph Holmes (with framing

KCC Spring Celebration to featureauction of works from local artists

services provided by The Glenn in El Cerrito),a painting by Carla Van Slyke, a color etchingfrom Elizabeth Kavaler, pottery by AnnStewart and jewelry by Dena Fredrick.

Other items being auctioned range froma pie a month from Nation’s GiantHamburgers to college consulting servicefrom Jim and Dorothy Walker.

Children of people attending the partyare invited for pizza and a movie and moreat no charge during the event. Call HelenHorowitz at 525-0292 to reserve a space.

Donations of art, books, jewelry andother goods and services are appreciated.

To donate an item to the silent auction,please call Danielle Power at 524-673.

LAW: big thumbs down for county effort

LIBRARY: bond sparks dreams of new building process too early now."

Though Kensington has the highest percapita use of its library of any in the ContraCosta library system, the 40-year-old build-ing, was designed to house a collection halfits current size of 40,000 items. The 5,000square-foot building suffers from outdatedelectrical and telecommunications, a heat-ing system that's grown unreliable andbathrooms that do not conform with therequirements of the Americans withDisabilities Act.

Last year Governor ArnoldSchwarzenegger signed legislation that willput $600 million in bonds for library con-struction. Half of those funds will be setaside for projects that qualified for a previ-ous $350 million bond measure in 2000,but failed to get funded because thedemand far outstripped the availablemoney. A total of about $500 million worthof projects are still awaiting funding.

The new funds will likely fail to meetdemand. The bond act was originally intro-duced as a $2 billion measure, but politicalrealities pared it back to its current level.Nevertheless, it was the only bond act toemerge from Sacramento the legislativesession ended in September.

The other half of the funds -- $300 mil-

lion - will be set aside for new projects.Projects that qualify require the communi-ty to put up 35 percent of the cost with thebalance coming from the bond money.

Because the projects are intended tomeet community needs for the next 30 to40 years, Ann Cain, director of the ContraCosta County Library, said it is unlikelyKensington would win approval to simplyrebuild its library without a significantexpansion because the current building isinadequate to meet the village's needs.

She said not only is it too small to houseits current collection, but there is no chil-dren's area, a lack of comfortable seating,no teen area, no computer training labs orhomework assistant rooms - features thatare now common at other libraries.

She said the cost of new constructionwould likely be between $250 and $275 asquare foot with total project cost rangingfrom $450 a square foot and $600 a squarefoot based on the cost of other projectsrecently done.

It's highly competitive and I expect itwill be just as competitive for this bond,"said Cain. "Projects that are competitiveare the projects that the community spendsyears on and it's important that the wholecommunity -- parents, teachers, kids andseniors -- are involved."

Continued from page 1

continued from page 1

Kensington Hilltop Elementary School fourth and fifth grade students of Jim Aiken during the final scene ofa modified version of William Shakespeare's Hamlet.Griffin Kamm (Laertes) (left) battles with Tahryn Smith( Hamlet) as Jennifer Welden (Claudius), Laura Lewis (Gertrude) and Michael Hutcherson (Horatio) watch.Horatio minutes later would be the sole survivor as poison swords take out Laertes, Claudius and Hamletand Gertrude does herself in with a glass of poison wine. The four deaths bring the play’s body count tosix, not counting the murder of Hamlet’s father, which starts it all.

March 2005 Kensington Outlook Page 4

Neighborhood NotesKroll Realty opens doors on Colusa Circle

Kroll Realty, launched at the end of 2003,has moved to new offices at Colusa Circle.

The business, founded by the formerowner of the San Francisco Hang GlidingCenter Bodhi Kroll, occupies the space for-merly home to women’s shoe store Feet ofDreams.

Kroll said he currently has four agentsand expects to increase that to between tenand 12 this summer.

Kroll, who began investing in real estateabout six years ago, said he’s expecting hisfirst child and hanging up his glider, at leastfor now.

"I won’t say I’m swearing it off. I've yet

to break a bone and come to the conclusionwith my first child 60 days from beingborn, I'm more excited about raising myown daughter than jumping off cliffs."

Library seeks volunteers for “Stories to Go” programFor volunteers seeking

more than predictable jobsof mending or shelvingbooks, the library has somechallenges and rewards.

The "Stories to GoProgram" pairs interestedadult readers with low-

income preschools or daycare classes toread with children.

Over the course of the school year, vol-unteers can see the interest in books andstories grow in their audience. The libraryprovides training, books, puppets, props,fingerplays and songs in kits that are readyingredients for success.

The purpose of these outreach efforts bythe library is to foster an early love ofbooks and improve the reading readiness of

children entering elementary school. Studies have shown that these early

reading activities are critical to good braindevelopment and can determine a child'sfuture ability in school.

To take part in this program all you needis enthusiasm and an interest in this youngage group. Volunteers must be 18 or older,provide their own transportation, and takea TB test. Locations of the program are inthe San Pablo, Concord, Pittsburg and eastcounty areas.

To find out more please call Lyn Palme,Contra Costa County Library, (925)-927-3288.The Kensington Library also hasshort-term volunteer projects available forthose needing to complete communityservice requirements. Volunteers should be12 years or older.

Bodhi Kroll outside his new Colusa Circle office.

The NationalCouncil for theSocial Studies andthe Children's Bookcouncil namedMartin LutherKing, Jr.:Dreaming ofEquality by AnnManheimer aNotable Social Studies Trade Book forYoung Readers for 2005.

Manheimer is a frequent substituteteacher at the Kensington HilltopElementary School, as well as otherschools in the West Contra Costa Unified

WriterCoach Connection, which pairstrained volunteers with students in Berkeleyschools to help them master writing and criti-cal thinking skills, seeks volunteers.

The organization will hold a two-sessiontraining for new volunteers March 8 and 15at 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Coaches commit to a regular, 2-hour per weekassignments and meet weekly, during the schoolday, to work one-on-one with students in theirEnglish classes.

The program serves 8th grade students atKing, Longfellow and Willard Middle Schoolsand 9th grade students at Berkeley High.

Additional info and volunteer registration canbe found at www.writercoachconnection.org

Local author wins recognition Writing coaches sought

The Bard lives, but pretty much everyone else dies

Julia

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Exercise to Music Non-impact aerobics; ongoing.Instructor: Michele DorntgeTuesday, Thursday: 9:15 -10:15 a.m.Fees per resident (10 weeks):$40/1 x week, $80/2 x week$4.50 drop-in Non-residents add 10percentCOMMUNITY CENTER

Dog Obedience TrainingHandlers must beat least 14 yearsof age. Dogs mustbe at least fivemonths old, havehad all their shots,and be accustomedto a leash.Instructor: LewisCuccia 233-4500WednesdaysBeginners: 7-8 p.m.

Acrylic Painting Stan Cohen leads this informal butprofessional workshop forestablished and seriousbeginning artists. Morningsare devoted to developingpainting, with assistanceavailable. Afternoons arereserved for class critique.Enrollment is limited.Instructor approval required.Instructor: Stan CohenWednesdays, 9:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m.$32 per month residents$36 per month non-residentsNon-residents add 10 percentCOMMUNITY CENTER

Still Life Oil Painting Class Beginning and advanced students willpaint from live models using the ReileyMethod, a process of painting which is

March 2005 Kensington Outlook Page 5

Kensington CommunitKensington Communit y Educationy Education

AdultAdult ClassesClasses

YYouth Classesouth ClassesKASEP

Kensington After SchoolEnrichment Program

Building E59 Arlington Ave.Kensington, CA 94707-1037

OFFICE HOURS 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday.-ThursdayNoon to 4pm, Friday

OFFICE CLOSED March 28 - April 1

Helen HorowitzDirector525-0292 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Elma ConleyOn-Site Supervisor 525-0292 during class hours

Sandy ThackerCurriculum Coordinator 482-1258

Instructor: Alex Brown 524-5495Tuesdays and/or Thursdays3:40-5:20 p.m.Fees (payable monthly):$10 per class/resident$11 per class/non-resident.

TENNIS COURTS

Current session started: Jan. 7Next session begins April 66 weeks: $40 per resident$45 per non-residentConformation: 8-8:45 p.m. $4/classIntermediate/Advanced: 9-9:45 p.m. $4/class

TennisAlex Brown, USPTAtennis pro, offers class-es to a minimum of fourstudents.To register, call Brownat 524-5495.Tuesdays andThursdays, 9-10a.m.5 classes/ $40 perresident;$45 per non-resident TENNIS COURTS(West Court)

broken down into steps. Students willlearn how to do a "wash-in" under-painting and how to mix the "controlledpalette," starting with a gray scale fromblack to white, with all other colorsmixed and arranged in correspondingvalue scale. Students will learn to seecolor and shape in terms of the valuepattern of the subject. Materials andpaint application techniques will bediscussed. Work of current and pastgreat painters will be studied. Studentswill be encouraged to develop theirown style and may use an openpalette if they prefer. For more informa-tion, call Barbara Ward at 528-2983. To sign up, call the KCC office.Instructor: Barbara WardThursdays, 7 p.m.-10 p.m.Session I: Sept 16 - Oct 28Session II: Nov 4 - Dec 23BUILDING E

KCCKensington Community Council

Helen Horowitz, AdministratorKensington Community CouncilBuilding E, 59 Arlington Ave.Kensington, CA 94707-1037525-0292

OFFICE HOURS 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday.-ThursdayNoon to 4pm, FridayOFFICE CLOSED March 28 - April 1

KCC OFFICE Building E is located across the grassyfield from the Community Center Annexthat houses The Neighborhood School.

NOTICESTo Register for ClassesCall the office unless otherwise speci-fied. Some classes have enrollment lim-its. Those registering will be notified ifthey cannot be enrolled.

Tennis Court ReservationsReservations are taken for weekendsand holidays only. The earliest reserva-tion is for 9 a.m. Fees are $2 per hourfor Kensington residents, $5 for others.

Community CenterCall Helen Horowitz for rental and reser-vation information.

Gymnastics11:55 a.m.-1:00 p.m.Morning Kindergartners2:50 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Advanced Beginners, Grades 1-6Students shouldwear loose clothingsuch as leotards,sweatpants, or shorts.Long hairmust be tied in a ponytail. To enroll, call Judy Bakerat 233-1833.Instructors: Judy Baker and Jean JayTuesdays, 11 weeksJanuary 4 - March 22

COMMUNITY CENTER

Tennis In this class for students in Grades 6,7,and 8, Alex Brown teaches the funda-mentals of tennis, including strokes, tac-tics, and sportsmanship. Classes consist of instruction, drills, andplay, and continue through the schoolyear. Students must register by themonth for one or two days a week.

KASEP SPRING REGISTRATIONThe winter session of the Kensington AfterSchool Enrichment Program ends March 25.Registration for the spring session will be held inthe Community Center, 59 Arlington Ave., onTuesday, March 8. Classes will begin onMonday, April 4. For further information call525-0292.

JOB OPENINGKCC is seeking a new part-time administrator forits community education program. Administrativeand organizational skills and experience arerequired as duties include hiring KCC instruc-tors; scheduling programs, classes and events inthe Community Center, coordinating KASEPand the Summer Day Camp, bookkeeping, pub-licizing activities and attending the KCC boardand KASEP committee meetings. Experienceworking in the recreation field is preferred. Sendresume and references to KCC, AdministrativeJob Selection Committee, 59 Arlington Ave.,Kensington, CA 94707. The application deadlineis March 15. For further information call 525-0292.

The Kensington Community Council (KCC)Summer Day Camp is for children entering firstthrough sixth grades in the fall 2005. The campruns from June 13, 2005 through August 19,2005, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to5:00 p.m. Campers may enroll on a weeklybasis. To ensure the best experience for eachchild, our camp has a maximum of 63 childrenper week. We employ a director, a head coun-selor and eight counselors, and a "specialty con-sultant" for each two-week specialty session towork with the campers. Drop-ins are not per-mitted.

Day Camp Staff ReturnsDirector Jessica Smith is returning for thisyear's camp along with counselors Valeria Fike-Rosales, Lauren Aczon and Matt Houser. KCCis delighted that they have chosen to work againat its camp.

FeesThe cost for the Kensington Summer Day Campis $185 per week with the cost prorated for July4th week to $148. This fee covers all trans-

portation costs, snacks, entrance fee, activitiesand a KCC Summer Camp T-shirt for field trips.Fees must be paid 10 days before each weekbegins. Children whose fees have not been paidmay not attend until fees have been paid to theKCC administrator. Registration, waiver andemergency forms must be submitted prior to thestart of each week. Forms must accompany theappropriate fees. A nonrefundable deposit of$25 per child per week requested is required withthe application. The $25 deposit is deductedfrom the balance due of camp. If a week is fulland space is not available, applicants will benotified immediately. We cannot refund fees if achild drops out after a session begins.

RegistrationRegistration will take place as follows:Thursday, March 17th, 7 p.m.

Community CenterKensington residents & camp alumni

Friday, March 18th, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.KCC OfficeKensington residents and camp alumni

Monday, March 21st, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Open registration. Parents may register theirchildren on a space available basis during KCCoffice hours.

Brochures availableFor more information or a brochure, call theKCC office at (510) 525-0292.

*Special Activities Schedule:Carpentry with Sandy ThackerWeek 1 June 13 - June 17Carpentry with Sandy ThackerWeek 2 June 20 - June 24

Golf with Alex BrownWeek 3 June 27 - July 1Golf with Alex BrownWeek 4 July 5, 6 7 & 8 (July 4th holiday)Gymnastics with Judy BakerWeek 5 July 11 - July 15

Gymnastics with Judy BakerWeek 6 July 18 - July 22Carpentry with Sandy Thacker

Week 7 July 25 - July 29Carpentry with Sandy ThackerWeek 8 August 1 - August 5

Sports & Chess with Kim RootsWeek 9 August 8 - August 12Sports & Chess with Kim RootsWeek 10 August 15 - August 19

+Tennis with Alex Brown, three days a week

*FIELD TRIP SCHEDULE:June 15 The JungleJune 22 Exploratorium June 29 San Francisco Zoo July 6 ScandiaJuly 13 Lawrence Hall of ScienceJuly 20 Jelly Belly Factory & Bo July 27 A's Baseball GameAugust 3 WaterworldAugust 10 The JungleAugust 17 A's Baseball Game

*Changes in the schedule may be made forunexpected circumstances.

Registration for KCC Summer Day Camp set for March 17 at Kensington community center

March 2005 Kensington Outlook Page 6

Kensington Calendar

Tuesday, March 1Family Storytime at 7 p.m. at the KensingtonLibrary, 61 Arlington Ave. Info: 524-3043

Friday, March 4The Berkeley Forum presents Prof. GeorgeLakoff, UC Berkeley: "Reframing the ProgressiveMovement" at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian UniversalistChurch of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Road, Kensington.A book signing and refreshments follow his talk.Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door.Reservations and Info: 525-0302 ext. 376

Saturday, March 5Dr. Seuss Birthday Party at 11 a.m. at theKensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. Playgames, hear stories, see a performance of aDr.Seuss story, eat real green eggs and ham, andstick around for a prize drawing. Free tickets willbe required and will be available on Monday,February 28. Sponsored by the Friends of theKensington Library.

Saturday, March 5New MillenniumStrings opens itsSpring season withLaurien Jones,Conductor. ChristaPfeiffer, sopranos o l o i s t .H u m p e r d i n c k ,Wagner, Strauss,Ravel. at 8 p.m. atthe ArlingtonCommunity Church,52 Arlington Ave.,K e n s i n g t o n .Suggested donation:$20; seniors/stu-dents, $10. Wheelchair accessible.Info: 528-4633.

Sunday, March 6Personal TheologySeminar: MarthaHelming, UUCBmember since 1961,has had a career inpsychiatric social

work and psychotherapy, Journeying withEaster at 9:30 a.m. at the UnitarianUniversalist Church of Berkeley, 1 LawsonRoad, Kensington. Info:525-0302 ext. 306

Monday, March 7The Kensington Community Council meets at7:30 p.m. at the Kensington Community Center.

Monday, March 7 Computer Literacy: How to set up a free e-mail account that is accessible from thelibrary or any on-line computer at 7 p.m. atthe Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave.Sign up for a seat. Info: 524-3043

Tuesday, March 8The Kensington Study Group of theLeague of Women Voters meets at 1:15p.m. at the home of Betty Brown, 44 BeverlyRoad, Kensington.

Tuesday, March 8Family Storytime at 7 p.m. at theKensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave.Info: 524-3043

Wednesday, March 9 Kensington Fire ProtectionDistrict meets at 7:30 in theKensington Community Center.Call to Confirm: 527-8395

Thursday, March 10The El Cerrito Garden Clubmeets at 9:30 a.m. in the El CerritoCommunity Center, 7007 MoeserLane. Rose Loveall-Sale,Horticulturist and Co-owner ofMorningsun Herb Farm, will pres-ent a program on "Hillside Gardening."Refreshments will be served. Guests wel-come and may pay $3 at the door. Info:525-1669.

Thursday, March 10The Kensington Police Protection andCommunity Service District meets at 7:30 p.m.in the Kensington Community Center. Call toconfirm: 526-4141

Saturday, March 12The Contra Costa Chorale conductedby John Montanero performs selectionsfrom Brhams, Mozart and Bach at 2 p.m.at the El Cerrito United MethodistChurch, 3860 Stockton Ave., El Cerrito.Tickets $15, students $12, under 16 free.Info: 524-1861

Sunday, March 13Personal Theology Seminar: MarleneAron, artist whose works have been exhib-ited throughout the United States andEurope, published poet, lecturer on VanGough, “My Work as an Artist and mySpiritual Journey” at 9:30 a.m. at theUnitarian Universalist Church of Berkeley, 1Lawson Road, Kensington. Info:525-0302ext. 306

Tuesday, March 15The Berkeley Garden Club presents"Propagation for the Home Gardener" a talk byKathy Echols, instructor at Diablo Valley

College, 1 p.m. at EpworthMethodist Church, 1953 HopkinsSt. Berkeley. Info: 524-4374.

Tuesday, March 15Magic with magician AlexGonzalez at 6:30 p.m. at the

Kensington Library, 61 ArlingtonAve. Free tickets will be required and

will be available March 7. This program issponsored by the Friends of theKensington Library.

Tuesday March 15Author Alice Wilson-Fried discusses herbook "Menopause, Sisterhood, and Tennis:One Woman's Personal Journey throughMenopause" at 7 p.m. at the El Cerrito Library,6510 Stockton Ave. Info: 526-7512.

Thursday, March 17The American Rhododendron Society, CalChapter, meets at 7:30 p.m. at 666 Bellevue Ave.,on Lake Merritt near Children's Fairyland inOakland. This month's speaker is Gordon Wylie,past ARS president who will present a talk andslideshow entitled "Scotland Revisited" featuringhis visit to the privately owned ColonsayIsle.Newcomers welcome. Info: 223-0443

Friday, March 18Concert featuring award-winning harpist OlgaOrtenberg-Rakitchenkov and SergeiRakitenkov, violist, at 8 p.m. at the ArlingtonCommunity Church, 52 Arlington Ave.,Kensington. Info: 526-9146.

Friday, March 18The Contra Costa Chorale conducted byJohn Montanero performs selections fromBrhams, Mozart and Bach at 2 p.m. at theUnitarian Universalist Church ofBerkeley, 1 Lawson Rd., Kensington.Tickets $15, students $12, under 16 free.Info: 524-1861

Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah

KCC campers summer 2004 campers ride the bus during a field trip

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Summertime may still seem far away, but registration for KCC’s sum-mer day camp begins March 17 at 7 p.m. for Kensington residents. Thecamp will run from June 13 through August 19 Monday through Fridayfrom 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Campers may enroll on a weekly basis. Moredetailed information can be found on page 5.

Alex Gonzalez

The Kensington Outlook is online at www.kensingtonoutlook.comcourtesy of PagePoint Web Solutions

Sunday, March 20Personal Theology Seminar: Joel BenIzzy, internationally known story teller, ATale of Curses, Blessings, and Miracles at9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian UniversalistChurch of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Road,Kensington. Info:525-0302 ext. 306

Sunday, March 20Palm Sunday Service at 10 a.m. at theArlington Community Church, 52 ArlingtonAve, Kensington. Info: 526-9146.

Monday, March 21 Town Hall meeting with County SupervisorJohn Gioia and Contra Costa CountyLibrary Director Anne Cain to discuss thepossibility of a new or renovated building forthe Kensington Library at 7 p.m. at theKensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. Info:524-3043

Tuesday, March 22Family Storytime at 7 p.m. at theKensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave. Info:524-3043

Monday, March 28 Computer Literacy: Word processingbasics using Microsoft WordPad at 7 p.m. atthe Kensington Library, 61 Arlington Ave.Sign up for a seat. Info: 524-3043

Thursday, March 24Maundy Thursday Service at 7 p.m. withcommunion and a simple meal with soupand bread donated by Ajanta Restaurant.Arlington Community Church, 52 ArlingtonAve., Kensington. Info: 526-9146.

March 2005 Kensington Outlook Page 7

Kensington Calendar ContinuedFriday, March 25Arlington Community Church, 52 ArlingtonAve., Kensington opens its sanctuary for med-itation from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Good Friday.At 7:30pm there will be a concert featuringRossini's "Petite Messe Solennelle" with videoaccompaniment. Info: 526-9146.

Sunday, March 27Easter Sunrise Service near KensingtonHilltop School at 10 a.m. held by the ArlingtonCommunity Church, 52 Arlington Ave.,Kensington. Easter Morning Worship Serviceat 10:00 a.m. Info: 526-9146.

Sunday, March 27Easter Sunday pancake breakfast from 8:30a.m. to 9:30 a.m. followed by service and anEaster egg hunt at the Unitarian UniversalistChurch of Berkeley, 1 Lawson Rd.,Kensington. Info: 525-0302

Sunday, March 27Personal Theology Seminar: Marilee Baccich,founder of the Udana Institute for Spiritual Studiesand the Pursuit of Peace, Sufi teacher, InterfaithMinister, member of UUCB, The Gnostic Christ at9:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church ofBerkeley, 1 Lawson Road, Kensington. Info: 525-0302 ext. 306

Tuesday, March 29Kensington Municipal Advisory Councilmeets at 7 p.m. in the Kensington CommunityCenter. Call to confirm: 273-9926

Tuesday, March 29Family Storytime at 7 p.m. at the KensingtonLibrary, 61 Arlington Ave. Info: 524-3043

Rosa Jaeger, long-time resi-dent of Kensington, dies at 93

Obituaries

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Rosa Jaeger, a 52-year resident ofKensington, died January 17. She was 93.

Born August 19, 1911 in the small moun-tain village of Altenberg, Austria, Jaegermoved to Vienna in her twenties where shebecame acquainted with University ofCalifornia at Berkeley professor CharlesGulick and his wife, Esther. The Gulicksinvited her to come to America with them fora year or two to help with translations and tohelp Esther around the house.

When Rosa's return ticket to Austria wasrendered useless by the invasion of Poland in1939, she embraced her new life in the U.S.,read as many books as possible to master theEnglish language, and eventually enrolled incitizenship classes.

She met her husband Alois "Lew" Jaegerthrough a blind date set up by his cousin, afellow member of those classes. They mar-ried in June 1945 during Lew's 45-dayleave from his tech support position withthe Army Air Corps in India.

Lew and Rosa moved to their home onWillamette Ave. in 1952. As they raised theirfamily, Rosa quietly supported the communi-ty through activities at Arlington CommunityChurch, by stints as a Cub Scout and CampFire leader, and by joining other KensingtonPTA mothers in cooking and serving hot dogson the school's weekly "hot dog day."

Rosa is survived by her husband of 59years, Alois "Lew" Jaeger; her son, MikeJaeger and his wife, Susan, of Walnut Creek;her daughter, Leslie Jaeger Perrin and her hus-band, Ken, of Seattle; and two grandchildren.

Dorothy D. Muller died February 9 ather home in Kensington after a two-yearbattle against colon cancer. She was 83.

Born June 21, 1921 in Pennsylvania, Mullermoved to California and settled in Kensingtonafter her marriage to Rolf Muller in 1962.

She worked for ten years as a registerednurse, first in West Virginia, then at AltaBates Hospital in Berkeley. After the birthof their children, Muller was active in thePTA, at the library and with all her chil-dren's academic and social activities.

She is survived by her husband, Rolf;son, Will; daughter, Alice; son-in-law, Erik;brother, Don and sister-in-law, Ellen.

A service was held at First PresbyterianChurch of Berkeley. Donations may bemade to a favorite cancer charity.

Patricia C. Freeman died at her NorwoodAve. home November 30. She was 86.

An long-time active member of manylocal civic organizations, Freeman partici-pated in organizations including theKensington Hilltop PTA, the Girl Scouts,the Kensington Community Council, theKensington Democratic Club and the localbranch of the NAACP.

A private memorial was being planned.Donations would be welcome to thePatricia and Keith Freeman MemorialScholarship Fund, The Young MusiciansProgram, 19 Morrison Hall, U.C.Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720-1204.

Dorothy Muller, registerednurse at Alta Bates, dies at 83

Patricia Freeman, active incivic organizations, dies at 86

The KensingtonPolice Department hashired Dominic Boutain,a three-year veteran ofthe El Cerrito PoliceDepartment.

Boutain, 32, fills thevacancy created by thedeparture of officer Shelly

Police responded to a report from a Rugby Ave.resident who found a two-foot crack in his frontdoor. Police said it was unclear whether the inci-dent was the result of vandalism or a failed burgla-ry attempt - or a really, really strong wind.

A Rincon Rd. man called police to report forgeryafter one of his sons called him to complain that theman had sent a $100 check to his brother, but not to

him. The man told the upset son that he notonly sent him a check, but that he hadsigned and cashed it. Apparently theywere both wrong.

An unidentified mansmashed the window of a

Honda Civic parked onFranciscan Way. The thief failed in

his attempt to remove the stereo, butgrabbed other audio equipment val-ued at about $1,000.

Kenyon Ave. residents reported that some-time between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m. while they were

out someone entered their home through a connect-ed garage door and stole several hundred dollarsworth of items including clothing and jewelry.

ACoventry Rd. resident reported the theft of $1,400in property from her unlocked 2005 Pontiac Sunfire.

A parked BMW on Arlington Ln. was peltedwith eggs. The owner washed them off and therewas no permanent damage to the vehicle, howeverthe eggs were beyond repair.

A youth who had brought over his Mac G4 com-puter valued at $1,600 to a friend¹s house on AmherstAve. for a party reported he had left it there and whenhe returned later it was gone. There was a time kidsbobbed for apples.

A Highgate Ct. resident reported the theft of a$100 bicycle after seeing a suspicious male out-side her home. A neighbor reported that she sawa man fitting his description riding a bike.

A big rig delivering I-beams to the KensingtonHilltop elementary school construction site becamewedged on Purdue Ave. and was unable to maneuver.A fork lift was brought to the scene and the back ofthe truck was lifted to allow the truck to turn.

Police responded to an anonymous call of awoman screaming in the backyard of a home onWindsor Ave. They found two 14-year-old boys in ahot tub with the lights out. The boys had heard ananimal noise and feared they were going to beattacked.

March 2005 Kensington Outlook Page 8

Classified AdvertisingFrom the case files of the KPDThis report is based on the police logs of theKensington Police Department. The Outlook is solelyresponsible for the writing and editing of this report.

Events in January

Police discovered an unconscious womanslumped over the steering wheel of a parked car at3 a.m. New Year's Day on Amherst Ave. The carwas off, but the key was in the ignition. Anofficer woke the woman, who had a strongsmell of alcohol, and took her into custody.She was released to another adult.

Police arrested a 24 year-oldmale on outstanding misde-meanor warrants after he ran astop sign. The man had a history ofstolen vehicle thefts and the two pas-sengers in the vehicle were in posses-sion of blank keys.

A Lake Drive resident called police to report adead deer in his backyard. Police contacted animalcontrol and they confirmed that the deer was indeeddead.

A woman reported the theft of a QVC box con-taining a $108 jacket delivered to her front door. Awitness saw a woman take the box and drive off.Albany police recovered the box, but it was empty.

Kensington police assisted El Cerrito police withcrime scene security after a robber shot and killed astore clerk during a hold up at a mini-mart on SanPablo Ave.

A Lam Ct. resident reported a case of identitytheft after American Express called to tell her itwould deny future charges on her gold card becauseshe was late with her payment. The resident didn'thave an account with American Express, only a$19,749 debit balance in her name.

A Purdue Ave. resident reported a suspicious per-son walking into driveways as if they were "casing"properties. A man who made the report contactedthe man, who said he was lost and on his way to theDepartment of Motor Vehicles. Police stopped theman, who said he was on his way to his cousin'shouse. The man had a history of theft, robbery andnarcotics charges. Police checked him for weaponsand sent him on his way.

The Arlington Chevron contacted police becausea customer who had damaged a pump after drivingoff with the nozzle still in his gas tank had not beenheard from as promised. Police advised the gas sta-tion that it would now have to pursue the matterthrough the civil justice system.

Police arrested a 29-year-old San Pablo man out-side a Highland Blvd. house for possession ofmethamphetamine for sale, burglary tools and drugparaphernalia.

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Police PhonesEmergency: 911Non-emergency officer response: 233-1214Other police business: 526-4141

VACATION BEACH HOUSE, Big Island ofHawaii, North Kona Coast. Lovely 3 bedrooms, 2baths, ocean, mountain views, owned byKensington residents. 527-2009.

HOME REPAIR EXPERT. Fences, decks, car-pentry, tile work, doors and locks, glass and win-dows, small electrical/plumbing jobs, odd jobs.Local references. Rick, 464-5934.

PROFESSIONAL EDITOR/WRITER. Memoirs,fiction, newsletters, brochures, proof, disserta-tion, essays, articles. Words Into Print. 236-0919.

MASTER CARPENTER. 30 years experience inhome remodeling and renovation: stairs, doors,windows, cabinets, bookcases, trim, drywall,decks, fencing. Framing through finish. Large orsmall jobs. Local resident George Spilsbury, 525-4051.

THE PAINT COMPANY. Highest quality workinside and out. Estimates and consultation arefree. Many satisfied local references. Fullyinsured. License #515120. Call us today at 527-2673.

BRIDGE PAINTING paints houses! Top quality,int/ext, A-1 prep. for lasting finish, Sr. discount,fully ins, Lic. 639300, free est, see display adinside. 232-3340.

AURORA PAINTING & DECORATING.Interior, exterior, waterproof coatings, woodrestoration, color consultation. License#721226. Kensington references. 655-9267 forfree estimate.

ABE'S TREE AND YARD CARE. Trimming, prun-ing, removals. Weeding, hedge maintenance,clean-up. Large or small jobs. Insured. Local res-ident. 724-6956.

TWO STRONG WOMEN HAUL AWAY SER-VICE: Will pick up, clean out, recycle, delivermost anything, anytime. Winter special. CallLeslie 235-0122.

CLARK KELLEY'S CALIFORNIA GARDENS. Allphases of landscape construction, plant designirrigation and garden installation. Flagstone andbrick patios. Local references License #534467.869-2788.

HANDYMAN: winterize, repair, build, elec, plumb,roofing, gutter clean, de-pest, etc. Lee, 525-1945.

PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZER for home andoffice. Call for your free consultation. Ms. ClutterBuster: 510.724.3500

PAULA'S PET CARE. Vacation/daily pet care.Bonded, insured, reliable. Experienced 558-9191.

NOODLE NOSE ANIMAL CARE: Daily home vis-its to your companion animal when you must beaway. Licensed. Bonded. Insured. Loveable.704-8840

INFANT MASSAGE CLASSES - for pre-crawlingbabies & their caregivers. Wed. 10:30-12, 5week series $90. Above Young's Market.Contact Susan C. Gann, M.Ed., C.M.T. 604-2375or susancgann@sbcglobal.net

GARAGE CLEANING/ORGANIZING We bringorder to years of chaos in just 1 day! UC BerkeleyEngineering students, from Midwest, hardwork-ing, great local refs, $125 minute. Call Cal SpringCleaners 508-3894

PETER-THE-PAINTER Top Quality HousePainting in Kensington for 15 years. Int/ext, paint-ed to last. Careful prep. Custom colors. Free esti-mate Call Peter (510) 548-0440

EXPERT MACINTOSH HELP, Workshops Havemore fun, be more productive. 14 yrs exper.dave@macandmore.net 510-527-5748

KENSINGTON SEAMSTRESS +20 yrs experi-ence Alterations + small projects refs 528-0493

VACATION CONDO - Big Island of Hawaii- Northof Kona. Near beach, golf, shopping, restaurants,2 bdrm, 2 bath, avail. all year. Call 526-8524

MASSAGE-Having neck, shoulder, or back pain?Massage makes a difference. Joan CMT 525-2750

REACH YOUR FULL POTENTIAL, do you needhelp making life/business decisions? A personalcoach can help. Call Eric Riess 526-8524

RENE'S HAULING Honest and reliable servicesince 1993. All types of hauling. Free estimates.Call 510-367-5695 cell or 510-620-0462.

HANDYMAN FENCES + DECKS, Painting, MinorPlumbing + Electrical, light hauling (510) 672-1679

NOW SERVING THE EAST BAY: Fine pruning,tree planting and removal specialist. Landscapedesign and construction. Scheduled generalproperty and garden maintenance. Irrigation andlighting systems. Full service and strong attentionto detail. No job too big or too small. 15 yrs. Exp.Call David at 510-593-5102

PIANO LESSONS. Students learn classics, popw/ gentleness, fun. Refs. Sandy at 528-9505.

El CERRITO HILLS STUDIO-Rustic, quiet, 675sq. f. Fireplace, patio, nr. Bus/BART, $700/ mo.236-2854

PET SITTING & DOG WALKS - Safe Hands PetCare, the trusted name for great pet care.Bonded, Insured, Licensed. We make petssmile!!! (510) 528-7870 WWW.SAFEHAND-SPETCARE.COM

JFJ CONTRACTING General contractor.Framing, patios, plumbing, painting Drywall,ceramic tile. Jamie F. Jackubzk, owner Lic#785536 510-334-2433

DOG WALKING AND SITTING. Insured, refer-ences available.Call Cathe @ 510-524-9185

WINDOW CLEANING: Homes or commercial.Free estimate. References available. Call Catheat 510-524-9185.

KENSINGTON TAX CLINIC. EvanAppelman,Enrolled Agent. Authorized E-FileProvider. Personalized service - reasonablerates. "We make house calls!" 526-8449

CONTEMPORARY INTERIOR FURNISHINGSCustom Draperies, Roman Shades, Bedding, etc.Northern Veils/Gunilla Ebers 510-289-0624

PAPERWORK AND HOUSEHOLD HELP want-ed. 4 hours/week in Kensington. Jane 527-9242

SQUAW VALLEY TOWNHOME 2 bed/2 bath.Walk to ski lifts, village shops, restaurants & hik-ing trails. Beautiful mountain views 510-527-8353

ALL THINGS MACINTOSH: Freezing & crash-ing? Trouble shooter for hire. New computer orOS? Share broadband. Mac/PC. printing & files.We come to you. Ruth and Eugene 510 595 5539

NEW TAHOE DONNER HOME,views,slps 9 510-869-3790, www.vacationspaces.com/2930

SUNSET GUTTER CLEANINGJim 510 393 8929

SHARE HOUSE NEAR KENSINGTON 4BR w/1BR Avail. March 1-$575 w/ $500 dep. Olderhome on Barrett Ave., Many amenities. No Pets,smokers. Owner TF 888-422-0320 X1946

PART-TIME PRESCHOOL TEACHER:Kensington Nursery School has an opening for apreschool teacher who enjoys team teaching in aplay-based program. MinUte 12 ECE units. Sendresume to knschool@sbcglobal.net or to KNS, 52Arlington Ave., Kensington 94707. 524-7963

HOUSE CLEANING / HOUSE KEEPER Homes,offices, aprtments. Move in or move out.References available. Call Monica 510-528-2428

ATTRACTIVE NORTHSTAR CONDO RENTAL 2 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, Sofa sleeps 3 in livin-groom with mountain view. Master Bedroom hasqueen bed, 2nd has 2 twins. 510-526-7205.

FOR RENT APTS IN ALBANY. On Kains. 8-unitbldgs. No pets. Laundry on premises. $755 to$855/mo. All on 2nd floor. Call 510-524-3225.

KKEENNSSIINNGGTTOONN OOUUTTLLOOOOKK CCLLAASSSSIIFFIIEEDD

Classified ad forms can be found online atthe Kensington Outlook website (www.kens-ingtonoutlook.com) or at the KensingtonCommunity Council office at 59 ArlingtonAve. Ads are $6 a line with a minimum of $12.A line consists of 45 characters or spaces.

The Kensington Outlook publishes tentimes a year. The deadline for classified ad isthe tenth of the month prior to publication.Send check made payable to KCC with a com-pleted classified ad form to: KensingtonOutlook Classified, 59 Arlington Ave.,Kensington, CA 94707. Payment is due priorto publication. The Kensington Outlook doesnot accept credit cards. If you are sending inpayment to renew an ad, please include thetext of the ad.

Kensington PD hires new officer from El Cerrito force

Dominic Boutain

Crain and will serve as the department’s crimeprevention officer.

Prior to becoming a police officer Boutainworked as a teacher. He said he was attractedto the Kensington Police Department becauseof its high morale and the opportunity to workwith the community.

A father of three he is currently expectinghis fourth child.