This year was my first experience with the Classic Car Show on Sept. 8, and Dancing with the Cars on Sept. 7. Both were great events which raised money for several local non-profits. You did not have to be a classic car buff to ogle the beautiful cars, several of which were worth over $1 million. In all, there were 194 classic cars and four motorcycles! It was great to see so many local residents and visitors from neighboring communities enjoy the day amongst classic cars. I proudly served as one of The Orinda Association volunteers at the entrance to the Car Show seeking donations for the various local charities such as Seniors Around Town. Talking about Seniors Around Town, the program has become very popular of late and is averaging approximately 100 riders per month. This increased demand requires additional drivers. So, if you have the time and a reliable vehicle, please give us a call at The Orinda Association (925-254-0800) to volunteer and help a neighbor. The Orinda Association continues its traditional role hosting local election forums. Because this year the three Orinda Union School District seats are not being contested, there will be no election and no debate. But the three open City Council seats have five candidates. For the two open seats of the Moraga-Orinda Fire District (MOFD), there are three candidates for District 3, and two candidates for District 4 vying for the single open seat in each District. On behalf of The Orinda Association, my fellow board member Carlos Baltodano will host the City Council candidate debate at 7 p.m. on Oct. 3. On Oct. 10, I will host the MOFD District 3 and 4 debate. Both debates will be moderated by representatives from the League of Women Voters and will be held at the Orinda Library Auditorium. In previous President’s Messages, I have urged Orindans to support local businesses rather than lament their death once they are gone. In particular, I have encouraged residents to support our local theatre and restaurants. Recently, I was informed that in addition to movies, the Orinda Theatre is hosting musical events. Their upcoming line-up is impressive. On Oct. 4, Lorna Luft will perform the Songbook of her mother Judy Garland, November will bring Maureen McGovern to Orinda on Thur., Nov. 8 at 7:30 p.m. The multi-Grammy nominee, Broadway and recording artist, continues to thrill audiences with a voice that defies categorization. On Sun., Dec. 16, at 7 p.m., Karen Mason, Broadway, star of Mamma Mia! and Sunset Boulevard will help us celebrate the holidays. If you are into music, make attending these events a habit and pass this info on to other locals.
