PRESENTED BY
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August is starting on a lively note, with Rebirth Brass Band and The Soul Rebels sharing the stage in Orinda and Big Blu Soul Revue bringing soul and funk to Moraga Commons. Jake Shimabukuro adds a Friday night ukulele set, while a red-carpet screening at the Orinda Theatre gives Monday a little Hollywood energy. There are also an author talk, outdoor theater and local art to explore along the way.
PRESENTED BY ROCHFORD REAL ESTATE
With more than 20 years of experience and ranking in the top 1.5% of agents nationwide, Brian Rochford is a trusted name in Lamorinda real estate. A Lafayette native and second-generation realtor, Brian offers unmatched local insight and a deep network that benefits both buyers and sellers at every stage.
Known for his integrity, strong work ethic, and strategic approach, Brian delivers a highly personalized experience tailored to each client’s goals. His attention to detail, calm presence under pressure, and proactive guidance ensure a smooth process and exceptional results—whether helping a first-time buyer or marketing a premier luxury property.
Rooted in the community he serves, Brian combines market expertise with a genuine commitment to his clients, making him a reliable resource and dedicated advocate in every transaction.
THIS WEEK IN LAMORINDA
Prefer to listen? Catch up on this week’s events, local news, and community highlights in just a few minutes. Listen below or search for Lamorinda Life in your favorite podcast app.
LAMORINDA LIFE
New Orleans Brass Takes Over the Orinda Hills
LOCAL NEWS
Morucci’s is coming to Orinda – The longtime Walnut Creek deli has signed a lease near the Orinda Theatre, with more details still to come
Work advances on Lafayette’s BART bike station and pathway – Crews plan to install storm drainage, electrical conduit and irrigation sleeves while beginning concrete work near the roundabout
LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Milkbread.Nation began with a flavor founder Natalia couldn’t forget. While traveling through Japan, Korea, China and Indonesia, she encountered variations of soft, buttery milk bread and eventually began recreating them at home. After moving to Moraga a decade ago, she considered pursuing baking but put the idea aside when she learned she was expecting her daughter, Eve.
Years later, Eve became her baking partner, and the two began measuring, kneading and experimenting together. Encouragement from friends and colleagues led Natalia to apply for a cottage food permit this spring, while her husband, Chris, built the website and ordering system. My family tried Milkbread.Nation a few weeks ago, and our order was gone by that afternoon.
MEET NEW LOCALS OVER DINNER
Want to meet a few more people around Lamorinda? Ten locals are already signed up for the next Lamorinda Dinner Club, happening Thursday, August 20 at 5:30pm in Moraga.
Take a quick quiz, and we’ll match you with five other locals and choose the restaurant. You’ll receive the location that morning, with an optional nearby gathering after dinner for anyone who wants to continue the evening.
ON THE CALENDAR
Thursday, August 6
11am | Pat's Book Club: What We Can Know (Orinda Books) — Discuss Ian McEwan’s novel in a welcoming group open to all.
5pm | Thirsty Thursday (Wine Thieves) — Enjoy live music by Kate Burkhart, a food vendor, and beer and wine by the glass.
6pm | Author Event: When the Declaration of Independence was News by Emily Sneff (Lafayette Library) — Hear historian Emily Sneff explore how the Declaration of Independence’s message was shared in 1776.
6:30pm | Moraga Summer Concert Series (Moraga Commons Park) — Enjoy free, family-friendly live music featuring Lamorinda Idols and Big Blu Soul Revue.
6:30pm | Collective Medicine Circle (Orindawoods' Woodhall) — Join a guided evening of meditation, sound, and shared reflection.
Friday, August 7
8pm | Jake Shimabukuro (Siesta Valley Bowl) — The Hawaiian musician brings his genre-spanning approach to the ukulele to Orinda’s outdoor stage.
8:30pm | Present Laughter (Orinda Community Center) — See Noël Coward’s comedy at the Orinda Community Park Amphitheater.
Saturday, August 8
9am | Orinda Farmers' Market (Orinda Community Center) — Shop seasonal produce, fresh foods, and locally made goods in a relaxed outdoor setting.
2:30pm | Lamorinda Arts Council August Artist Reception (Orinda Library) — View abstract paintings, ceramics, collage, and other artwork at this afternoon reception.
8pm | Rebirth Brass Band/The Soul Rebels (Siesta Valley Bowl) — Catch an evening of live music.
Sunday, August 9
9am | Moraga Farmers’ Market (Moraga Center) — Browse seasonal produce, farm-fresh staples, artisan foods, and specialty items from regional growers and makers.
10am | Contra Costa Vintage Market (Downtown Lafayette) — Shop vintage finds from local sellers in Lafayette.
Monday, August 10
10:30am | Poetry Circle Meeting (Orinda Books) — Read and discuss The Collected Poems of Amy Clampitt with the local poetry book club.
6:30pm | Mike Farrell in The Strawberry (Orinda Theatre) — Attend a red-carpet screening followed by a Q&A with cast, crew, and a special guest.
Wednesday, August 12
3pm | Second Wednesday Book Club: August (Orinda Books) — Discuss Picasso's War at this monthly afternoon book club.
Own The Hallway This Year
Forget basic. The latest Sprayground collection brings together premium craftsmanship, bold artwork, and statement-making style in backpacks built for every school day. Whether you're walking the halls or heading across campus, carry something that stands out from the crowd.
HOUSE OF THE WEEK
490 St Marys Rd, Lafayette • $2,695,000 is a gated Lafayette retreat set among mature trees beside a creek. The home pairs white oak floors and multiple fireplaces with an outdoor deck, fire pit and grill, while a backyard ADU offers flexible space for an office, studio or playhouse.
THE FORECAST
Morning clouds give way to a warm, mostly sunny stretch, with Saturday bringing the week’s peak heat.
Thursday: Morning clouds, then sun. High ~84° / Low ~56°. The afternoon looks best for outdoor plans.
Friday: Early clouds, then sunny and warm. High ~87° / Low ~58°. Plan for shade if you’ll be outside later in the day.
Saturday: Morning clouds, then sunny and very warm. High ~90° / Low ~56°. Start outdoor activities early and bring plenty of water.
Sunday: Mostly sunny. High ~85° / Low ~55°. A more comfortable day for the farmers’ markets and other outdoor plans.
Monday: Partly sunny. High ~80° / Low ~56°. Mild conditions should work well for errands and evening plans.
Tuesday: Clouds giving way to some sun. High ~79° / Low ~55°. Keep a light layer handy in the morning.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny. High ~79° / Low ~55°. Expect a pleasant finish to the forecast period.
Whether you’re settling onto the lawn in Moraga or following the brass sounds into the Orinda hills, I hope you find something worth showing up for. Enjoy the week.
— Rajiv