Lafayette Chamber
Welcome to our February , 2018 issue of 
"Local Events Not to Miss"
   
If you have a non-profit or fundraising event in March, 2018, we would be happy to include you in our March issue - please submit your event by February 16 to [email protected] .
"Garden Abstraction" Continues at the Moraga Art Gallery
Now through March 17

The Moraga Art Gallery's first show of the year, "Garden Abstraction," continues until March 17th. Its title derives from the panorama of fleeting colors, shapes, shadows and light found in the course of a day in artist Lisa Gunn's Orinda garden. Gunn, a classical pianist, fuses musical and artistic principles--texture, tone, and color-- in her oils.

Along with paintings, photographs, ceramics, and jewelry by the gallery's other artists, the exhibit features a collection of functional and sculptural stainless steel baskets created by Alejandro Santamarina of Petaluma, as well as a unique collection of photographs by the late Wayne F. Miller (b. 1917, Chicago, d. 2013, Orinda) chronicling post-war Lamorinda through the eyes of then school-age baby boomers.

The gallery is open Wednesday to Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, go to www.moragaartgallery.com, call 925/376-5407 or email [email protected].   
Celestial, Julia Rymer and Rose Anne Critchfield at the Jennifer Perlmutter Gallery
February 1 - March 3; RECEPTION: February 1, 6-8pm, with an artist talk at 5pm

The Jennifer Perlmutter Gallery presents "Celestial," opening February 1, 2018. An exhibit of new work by Julia Rymer and Rose Anne Critchfield. Two artists who investigate mark-making in various ways from monumental strokes to microscopic marks. Rymer's work is a meditation, and manifestation, of her experiences with the natural world. Critchfield explores texture and surface, searching out an ecosystem of visual variations and uncovering artifacts of previous layers. Drawing on their points of view and place in the world, each artist strives to connect to something beyond the known.We invite the viewer to experience this "Celestial" exhibition. Exhibit runs through March 3 with a reception on February 1, from 6-8pm. Artist's talk begins at 5pm. Also featured during the month of February will be stone sculptures in marble and terrazzo by Michael Rizza. www.jenniferperlmuttergallery.com

Be a Powerful Voice for a Child in Foster Care. Become a CASA Volunteer. 
 
You have the powerful opportunity to impact the life of a vulnerable child when you volunteer with CASA of Contra Costa County. CASA volunteers may be the only reliable and stable presence in a child's life to help encourage, support and motivate them to keep going.

Learn more. Sign up here to attend one of our upcoming info sessions.
Friday, February 2, 12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Wednesday, February 7, 12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m. (webinar)
Wednesday, February 21, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Friday, February 23, 12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.


You must be 21 years or older to volunteer. http://cccocasa.org/menus/become-a-volunteer.html

Gold Coast Chamber Players Presents Fantezie
Performance 1: Friday, February 2, 8pm Piedmont)
Performance 2: Saturday, February 3, 7:30pm (Community Hall, Lafayette Library),
Pre-concert talk begins 30 minutes prior to performance.


Gold Coast Chamber Players brings the finest in chamber music performances to the San Francisco Bay Area. Founded in 1987 in the heart of the Alameda Gold Coast, this season marks the 18th season of performances in Lafayette. Gold Coast concerts provide a unique and inspiring listening experience for audiences of all musical backgrounds. Learn more here.

Peaceful Schools Conference: Addressing Racism
Saturday, February 3, 9am-4pm, Mt. Diablo Peace & Justice Center/Our Savior's Lutheran Church, 1035 Carol Lane

Attention educators/parents/students, registration is open and presenters confirmed for Mt. Diablo Peace and Justice Center's 7th Annual Conference. A daylong opportunity to explore how we can use our school and classroom practices to identify and address subtle and overt elements of racism. We will have break-out sessions that focus on sharing learning strategies, skills, and approaches to our work to dismantle racism in our society through our work with youth. Sessions will also focus on classroom lessons, school-wide programs, and approaches to school culture as we work together towards peace and social justice in our schools and lives. $50 per person, $10 students, $40 Peace Center members. Includes breakfast snacks and complete lunch. Register here.

Sustainable Contra Costa Presents Grow More Food: Home Permaculture Series
Saturdays in February, 9:30am-12pm, Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center, 315 Cortsen Road,
Pleasant Hill

Back by popular demand! Superstar gardener Marian Woodard presents a very special opportunity to learn the most effective, most natural, deeply earth-centered gardening practices in this 6- week series. No matter what size your yard is, you'll learn to be more self-sufficient, conserve water and energy, and build community with your fellow gardeners. Students will work on shaping and re-designing their own growing spaces throughout the class. You will see your yard in a whole new light!  Register and learn more here.

Ruby Slippers - There's No Place Like Home
Saturday, February 3, Blackhawk Auto Museum

Ruby Slippers - There's No Place Like Home is Contra Costa Interfaith Housing's (CCIH) annual auction fundraiser. Join us February 3, 2018 at the Blackhawk Auto Museum as we commemorate our tenth anniversary gala! This magical evening includes exciting silent and live auctions, a delicious seated dinner, and dancing and entertainment with local favorite - David Martin's House Party! All proceeds directly benefit homeless and at-risk families and individuals in Contra Costa County. To buy tickets or to learn more, visit the Ruby Slippers website here or check out www.ccinterfaithhousing.org.

3rd Annual Mega Challah Bake! Lafayette CA!
Wednesday, Feburary 7, 7pm, Lafayette Library Community Hall

Join dozens of Jewish women and girls ages 12 & up from Lafayette, Moraga & Orinda for an evening of Jewish pride, unity and inspiration!
*    UNITE women & girls of all ages and sections of the Jewish community
*    LEARN how to make easy, delicious Challah & the meaning of the mitzvah
*    CREATE two delectable loaves to bring home for Shabbat
*    SHARE the gift of Shabbat, warmth and great taste
*    PRAY may the power in numbers inspire the answer to our prayers &
*    ENJOY refreshments, raffles, and spending time with new and old friends

Already mastered the art of Challah baking? Come & help guide others!
Pre-paid registration required. Register at ChabadofLamorinda.com/Challah
Couvert: $20 before Jan 31. Mother and Daughter $36. Questions or comments? Call (925) 384-7242 or email: [email protected].

Lamorinda Education Forum
Thursday, February 8, 6:30pm-7:30pm, Stanley Middle School Multi-Use Room, 3455 School Street

Get the latest on Governor Brown's proposed 2018-19 Education budget and its impact on our local schools. Hosted by the Lafayette School District. Speakers: Gerry Shelton, School Finance Expert, Capitol Advisors; Ryan Anderson, Fiscal & Policy Analyst, Legislative Analyst Office; Senator Steve Glazer, Senate District 7; Assemblywoman Catharine Baker, Assembly District 16. For more information and to RSVP, visit www.lafsd.org or call (925) 927-3502.

Volunteer Mixer at Town Hall Theatre
Sunday, February 11, 10:30am-12pm, 3535 School Street, Town Hall Theatre

Join us at our Volunteer Mixer and learn more about ushering, concessions and other volunteer opportunities! Meet current and new volunteers! Drop ins welcome! (Light waffle brunch offered.) See shows for FREE! RSVP/Contact Suzie for questions: [email protected]. TownHallTheatre.com

Lamorinda CERT Presents Montecito Mudslide: Search, Rescue and Recovery
Monday, February 12, 7pm, Garden Room of the Orinda Library

Join Lamorinda CERT for a presentation by local resident Ben Ho, Moraga Police Reserve Officer and much more. He recently spent time in Montecito, searching for missing people in the catastrophic mudslides. RSVP at [email protected]. www.lamorindaCERT.org

Rockridge Valentine's Day Ice Cream & Gelato Tour
Wednesday, February 14, 7:30pm, Oakland's Rockridge area

Treat the sweetheart in your life to an evening of sweets this Valentine's Day. Local East Bay food tour company Local Food Adventures is hosting a one-night-only Rockridge Ice Cream & Gelato tour this Valentine's Day, Wednesday, February 14. This one-hour guided walking tour takes guests through Oakland's Rockridge area to explore a variety of ice cream desserts - along with a little history as to how we came to enjoy them. The tour starts at 7:30 pm and goes for one hour.  Advanced Reservations Required. As with every food tour Local Food Adventure gives, a dollar from every ticket sold will be donated to the Alameda County Community Food Bank. To book your spot on this special Valentine's Day Rockridge Ice Cream & Gelato tour, book online or call 510-604-6546. Learn more here.

Sustainable Contra Costa Presents Getting More For Less
Thursday, February 15, 10am-12pm, Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center, 315 Cortsen Road,
Pleasant Hill

Sometimes, the more you have, the more you have to lose, as those affected by the wildfires discovered last year. Denise Koroslev will help us focus on what really matters by finding balance in the home and eliminating unnecessary items to help maintain a clutter-free lifestyle.  Organizing and de-cluttering can offer more freedom from excess housecleaning, more space in your home, and more time to spend with family and friends. Experts from Republic Services will provide sustainable tips on recycling the clutter you clear!  Register and learn more here.

Sustainable Contra Costa Presents I've Installed My Water-Smart Garden: Now What?
Saturday, February 17, 10am-12pm, Pittsburg Library Community Room, 80 Power Avenue, Pittsburg

If you've converted your lawn to a beautiful water-smart garden, you'll want to keep it looking beautiful year-round. Instructor Patrice Hanlon, East Bay Times garden writer and Bay-Friendly Certified landscaper, has designed and maintained public gardens for over 20 years. The class will meet at the beautiful Living Green Gardens where Patrice will discuss simple methods of maintenance and care for your yard. Register and learn more here.

7th & 8th Grade Tri-City Dance
Friday, February 23, 7pm-9pm, Lafayette Community Center

The 7th & 8th Grade Tri-City Dance presented by the Youth Commission will be held on Friday, February 23rd from 7pm-9pm. Tickets are selling fast, so visit www.lafayetterec.org for more info and to register.

Contra Costa Camp & School Fair
Sunday, February 25, 11am-2pm

6th annual free event with booths for camps, schools, preschool, S.T.E.M. and S.T.E.A.M. programs, sports, cooking, enrichment, performing arts, scouts and YMCA. Free coding workshop plus bow and arrow, abacus and tennis exhibitions. Free Admission & Free Parking. Acalanes High School, 1200 Pleasant Hill Rd., Lafayette. www.ContraCostaCampFair.com

2nd Annual Winemakers Dinner Presented by the Lafayette Community Foundation
Sunday, February 25, Postino Restaurant, Lafayette

The second annual Winemakers Dinner will be held on Sunday, February 25, 2018 at Postino Restaurant in Lafayette. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to experience locally sourced food from some of the areas exceptional farms paired with wines from local wineries.  We hope you can join us for what promises to be a memorable evening! To purchase tickets, click here.

Updates from the 40th San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium
Tuesday, Feb. 27, 6:30pm-8pm, Reception 6pm-6:30pm, Community Hall Lafayette Library & Learning Center

The San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium is the premier international breast cancer conference designed to provide information on major advances in research, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Join us for this year's forum where a select group of oncology specialists will provide you with highlights from the 40th annual symposium. This event is free and open to the community. Register online or call 510-204-5656.

Lafayette Summer Music Jazz 2018 Workshop
Registration now open for Workshop July 22 - July 27

Since 1998, the week-long Lafayette Summer Music Workshop has provided an intimate and inspiring environment for learning and playing jazz. Master classes, improvisation workshops and jazz combos are led by some of the preeminent professional musicians in the field. The workshop is directed by Stanley Middle School music director Bob Athayde and jazz curriculum director Kyle Athayde. Kids - middle school, high school and college age - as well as adults have a blast! https://lafayettejazz.wordpress.com 

Lamorinda ShortDocs Film Fest postponed, deadline for submissions extended through March 18th.

Lamorinda ShortDocs is a short documentary film competition open to filmmakers of all ages within the Lamorinda Community. Films must be 6 minutes or less and will be judged in 4 categories by age: Elementary School, Middle School, High School, and Adult.  Finalists in each category will be selected and those films will be screened publicly at the festival. One winner in each age group will be selected and announced at the festival, where an Audience Favorite Student Film will also be awarded.

Register as a filmmaker today at www.lamorindaarts.org/for-filmmakers

Congratulations to Dana Green - the 2018 Business Person of the Year!   
We will be honoring Lafayette's Realtor Dana Green at the 2018 Business Person of the Year Dinner and State of the City Address on Friday, February 2 at the Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa. The State of the City address will be presented by Mayor Don Tatzin. Thank you to those that have registered. The event is completely sold out!

Lamorinda Small Business Forum: Emergency Preparedness and Business Recovery
Thursday, February 8, 5:30pm-7pm, "Big Room" at Lamorinda Music, 81 Lafayette Circle
The fire that leveled the Lafayette Chamber in July was a wake up call for all of us. Your business burns down. What do you do? Well you PLAN for the worst and make the BEST out of your situation. This event is open to the members of the Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda Chambers. We hope you will join us! And as we say here a the Lafayette Chamber, "Blaze On." Register here.

Lafayette Chamber Young Professionals Mix and Mingle @ The Hideout Kitchen & Cafe
Thursday, February 8, 5-7pm, 3400 Mt. Diablo Blvd.
What a great year so far! We am excited to announce that our next meet-up will be at one of the great restaurants in town... The Hideout. They have recently done some construction and have an elegant new room called "The Library." This will be a fun opportunity to wind down, meet some wonderful people, and possibly make some business connections. We hope to see you there! RSVP here.

Nominations Now Being Accepted for Citizen of the Year
Calling all nominations for the Citizen of the Year! A celebration dinner will be held on March 23 at the Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa to honor the winner. The deadline for submitting nominations is Friday, February 16 at 1pm. Nominations can be sent to [email protected].

Coffee with the Mayor
Friday, February 23, 8am-9am, Lafayette Chamber office, 251 Lafayette Circle, Ste 150.
Join us for Coffee with the Lafayette Major, Don Tatzin, on Friday, February 23, 2018 at the Lafayette Chamber office. Yes, we do provide the coffee!

February Mixer at Reliable Receptionist
Wednesday, February 28, 5:30pm-7:00pm, 1261 Locust Street, Walnut Creek
Our first mixer of the year will be held at Reliable Receptionist in Walnut Creek. Bring your business cards!

If you have any questions about the Lafayette Chamber events, please contact Sara Regan, Event Director, at [email protected].    


What's happening at the Lafayette Chamber? View our Events Calendar.
Jay Lifson, Executive Director