Onions & Orchids

by Peter Bond

Dear readers: This writer does search for individuals and businesses worthy of inclusion in this column, but he relies mostly on input from others. So please e-mail your ideas for Onions & Orchids to bpbond\@aol.com. Orchids to Councilmember Jane Brunner whose efforts in establishing the Oakland tree-planting program have resulted in a positive transformation of many of our neighborhoods. Orchids to Gracie Munoz for her continued contribution to the planting of urban gardens in Dimond's business district. Orchids to Tricia Christopher for creating and maintaining the Dimond Gateway Garden, the little park at the corner of Lincoln and MacArthur. Orchids and congratulations to Bret Harte Middle School teacher Malia Dinell for being awarded a MetLife Foundation Ambassadors in Education Award, which included a $5000 grant for the school. Ms. Dinell was recognized for her extraordinary efforts to strengthen her School and community. Orchids to Robin Rome for getting the degrading billboard removed which had hovered over Melrose Library, a block from Fremont High and near two elementary schools.