Hundreds joined together in Lafayette to sip martinis and raise over $16,000 for Project Second Chance, the Contra Costa County Library program that helps adults learn to read. http://bit.ly/10yPz7T

(Photo via Lamorinda Weekly)

A police dog is being credited for apprehending a pair of burglary suspects in Lafayette. Learn more about the industrious pooch here: http://bit.ly/156f9Ej

(Photo, link from Lamorinda Patch)

More evidence that we're in a strong sellers' market: The number of people who believe now is a good time to sell a home has nearly doubled over the past year, according to a new survey. Here's the scoop from Pacific Union: http://bit.ly/10M00SN

(Photo by J.G. in S.F., via Flickr.)

Moraga's Rheem Theatre is founding a Classic Film Hall of Fame! As part of the launch event, film legend Mickey Rooney will come to town in May: http://bit.ly/YK7Cal

(Photo, link from Lamorinda Patch)

This homebuying season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, as average Bay Area buyers go up against all-cash investors in a very tight market with rising prices: http://bit.ly/YTACfn

(Photo, link from Bay Area News Group)

Planning a weekend getaway? Here's the Chronicle's list of 20 must-see Northern California towns within an easy drive of San Francisco/the Bay Area, including Truckee pictured below: http://bit.ly/16sKn4C

(Photo, link from SFGate)

Dramatic NEW LISTING in Orinda Downs ... Offered at $2,295,000
Behind a gated entry is this elegant 6BR/4BA home on a spectacular 2.3±AC lot with breathtaking unobstructed views. Separate cottage!
www.44Coachwood.com

About 400 students at Orinda's Del Rey Elementary School tried to break the Hula Hoop workout record this week. The results aren't in yet, but good luck to them! http://bit.ly/10KQSQw

(Photo, link from SFGate)

This is a cool idea -- a new business run out of Back to the Table Cooking School in Lafayette delivers fresh, nutritious food for infants and toddlers: http://bit.ly/10GgA8B

(Photo, link from Lamorinda Patch)

Buyer demand is strong in Lamorinda, with some homes selling for significantly above asking: http://bit.ly/ZIRlRc

(Photo, link from Lamorinda Patch)

Housing affordability is rising in four Bay Area counties, and California is seeing sharp increases in home and pending sales. Catch up on the week's news with Pacific Union: http://bit.ly/WmmZqm

(Image by 401(K) 2013, via Flickr.)

The "Bay Lights" installation goes live Tuesday night on the Bay Bridge! The artwork features 25,000 white LED lights that create a constantly changing image: http://bit.ly/WHEB0a

(Photo, link from SFGate)

"Never underestimate the power of giving," — that is what drove us, two high school freshmen, Paige and Katie, to make a difference in our community. Paige attends Bentley High School in Lafayette and Katie attends Northgate High School in Walnut Creek.
http://lamorinda.patch.com/announcements/high-school-freshmen-start-registered-charity

Francesca's Collections clothing and accessories store has opened a new location on Mount Diablo Boulevard in Lafayette: http://bit.ly/YwTzST

(Photo, link from Lamorinda Patch)

Good news for Lamorinda homeowners -- home prices are expected to keep rising this year! http://bit.ly/VyTGhw

(Photo, link from Lamorinda Patch)

Know an #Orinda resident who would make a great citizen of the year? Now's your chance to submit a nomination: http://bit.ly/VnHbYD

March is the most active month for homebuyers in California! Here's Pacific Union's primer to help sellers and buyers get ready for the busy season ahead: http://bit.ly/11KM14H 

(Photo by Latteda, via Flickr.)