Almanac November 26, 2014

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To celebrate Thanksgiving, Ellenrose Goddard has for years decorated the front yard of her Atherton home with an ever-expanding variety of pumpkins, squash and gourds.

Atherton home celebrates the bounty of nature By Barbara Wood Almanac Staff Writer

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ach year for the past 17 years, Ellenrose Goddard has decorated the front yard of her Atherton home for Thanksgiving with pumpkins, squashes and gourds, straw bales and topiary figures, each year adding a few more varieties or colors. What started out with two or three pumpkins has now expanded to a cornucopia of more than 100 examples of the cucurbita family, in colors far beyond the traditional orange and including white, green, gray, yellow and even striped or spotted varieties. The components of the trafficstopping display come from Ms. Goddard’s own garden and from Webb Ranch and the Toresdal family farm in Emerald Hills, whose owners pass on their giant pumpkins for her to share with passersby.

After Thanksgiving, Ms. Goddard passes some of them on again, to St. Anthony’s Padua Dining Room, where she regularly volunteers. Then she changes her front-yard display to feature reindeer. The pumpkins range in size from tiny miniatures to Atlantic Giants that had been entered in the annual Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival. “I love it,� says Ms. Goddard. “It gets better every year.� At 78 Ms. Goddard says she is “semi-retired� from the business she began by accident in 1989. She had decided she wanted to go back to school. To earn the tuition she spent two weeks putting together wreaths and garlands from natural materials and dried flowers. Without an appointment, she dropped by I. Magnin in the Stanford Shopping Center and showed them to the department store’s buyers. “They took everything,� she says. “I got

calls from all over the U.S.� A business was born, and although Ms. Goddard did start back to school to work on her master’s degree, she ended up dropping out to devote herself full-time to creating her handmade home decor. While Ms. Goddard may be semi-retired, it is obvious from a quick glance around her home that she still loves getting creative with nature. Dried hydrangeas in a range of hues from purple to green are heaped on her fireplace mantel. Her kitchen overflows with drying flowers and other materials. She also shares her love for nature’s beauty by doing more than decorating her Nora Way yard. Each morning, six days a week, she picks up donated flowers and food from Draeger’s Supermarket in Menlo Park and brings it to St. Anthony’s. “It’s a wonderful way to start the day,� she says. A

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Menlo College wants to buy Sunset campus By Barbara Wood Almanac Staff Writer

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enlo College is exploring buying the Sunset Publishing Corp. property in Menlo Park and using the buildings as an additional campus for the school, according to college President Rich Moran. Menlo Park Mayor Ray Mueller, who met with Mr. Moran on Wednesday, Nov. 19, said the plan could be a win for the city and the college, which is located in Atherton off El Camino Real and Valparaiso Avenue right next door to Menlo Park. “I think it’s a promising idea,” he said. President Moran said the college, which this year reached an enrollment cap set by the town of Atherton, is interested in expanding. When he read that Time Inc. wanted to sell the Sunset property at 80 Willow Road, “I thought it might be an opportunity for the college to expand on that beautiful campus,” he said. The property is attractive to the college for more than its location, two miles away from the existing campus. The Sunset buildings are also architecturally similar to Menlo College’s buildings, Mr. Moran noted. Not only would Menlo Col-

lege want to use the existing buildings on the seven-acre property, “we would be interested in keeping the actual Sunset magazine in there,” he said. The college is also interested in preserving the annual Sunset festival, he added. “It’s a compelling idea right now and a way to preserve iconic architecture, and to let a small college that’s bursting, expand,” President Moran said. Mayor Mueller said that a number of details remain to be worked out. “If this works, I couldn’t be more happy,” he said. “I think Sunset magazine is one of those legacy businesses in town that our residents identify with.” Vice Mayor Catherine Carlton, who was also at the meeting with President Moran, said he had promised that if the site were used for any housing, it would be for faculty and not students. “They also seemed extremely sensitive to the fact that it was a neighborhood,” she said, and had promised they “would make an effort to be part of the neighborhood.” President Moran said on Friday, Nov. 21, that he had been in some preliminary talks with Time Inc.’s broker. President Moran said he realizes the property will be expensive. “It would require

Photo by Michelle Le/The Almanac

The Sunset property in Menlo Park might become home to a second campus of Menlo College.

creative financing or giving in order to make this happen,” he said. However, he added, “it’s an idea with enough merit that if smart people get in the room together, it might happen.” Property taxes

Jim Irizarry of the San Mateo County assessor’s office said nonprofit educational institutions can apply for an exemp-

tion from property taxes and that Menlo College current has such an exemption for its Atherton property. Mayor Mueller acknowledged that Menlo Park might be able to get more revenue from some other use of the property. “Our job as public servants is not to maximize tax revenues,” he said. “I think it’s a trade-off that people are

willing to take.” The existing Sunset campus is, Mayor Mueller said, “a vital part of our spirit and ecosystem.” However, the mayor acknowledged, there are other possible acceptable uses for the property. “I want this to work out with Menlo College, but if it doesn’t, that isn’t the end of the line,” he said. A

Atherton moves ahead with Atherton wants hosts to cover costs Council members specifically invoices sent to the White pedestrian, bike master plan By Barbara Wood House, the Secret Service, the asked about events in which the Almanac Staff Writer

By Barbara Wood Almanac Staff Writer

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omeday soon Middlefield Road in Atherton could be flanked with bright green bicycle paths and sport a long stretch of off-road bike trail. The Middlefield Road project is the top priority in the Pedestrian Bicycle Master Plan adopted by the Atherton City Council at its Nov. 19 meeting. The master plan calls for more, better and safer bike lanes as well as finding ways to make it easier to get around Atherton on foot. The town’s next step toward putting the plan into action is to ask con-

sultants for proposals to study what projects should come first. Council member Rick DeGolia said the plan “will have a real impact on our town if we are able to implement all of it.” The council has budgeted $500,000 in the current fiscal year for projects related to the bicycle-pedestrian plan and $100,000 a year for the next four years. An engineering study will look at the top-priority projects, their costs and feasibility. The projects to be evaluated are: Q Middlefield Road, from See BIKE MASTER PLAN, page 6

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ast year a visit by President Obama raised the hackles of a few Atherton residents when it cost the town $8,000 to provide traffic control and other services. Now the town is considering regulations that would make residents who host any future presidents, or teenagers who won’t shut down wild parties, pay up. “The town’s special event ordinance is not doing its job, as we found out a couple of years ago when the president came to visit,” City Manager George Rodericks said when he presented the proposal at the City Council’s Nov. 19 meeting. After the president’s visit,

Democratic National Committee and the residents who hosted two fundraisers were not paid, and town officials vowed to make sure that regulations were cleared up and residents informed so the same thing would not happen again. The proposed rules would require a special event permit, and repayment for any costs to the town for police, public works or other services, for any event that requires town services, or for any event that lasts longer than one day and is open to the public, such as designer showcases or garden tours. The permits could be required retroactively if an event costs the town money and resources.

police are called because of loud music or complaints of underage drinking. Mr. Rodericks said that if police had to return to a residence repeatedly, a retroactive permit would be required. Schools would have to apply for permits only if they violated the town’s school event guidelines, which limit the hours of school field use and outdoor functions, limit noise to the levels allowed by the town’s noise ordinance, and limit lighting, parking and signs. The revisions to the town’s special events regulations won’t be adopted immediately. They still must go through Planning Commission and City Council public hearings. A

November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 5

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Facebook shuttle drivers vote to form union By Sandy Brundage Almanac Staff Writer

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fter presenting a petition and holding a rally at Facebook’s headquarters in Menlo Park, the 87 drivers who take Facebook employees to and from work voted on Nov. 20 to unionize, according to Teamsters Local 853. The vote was 43 in favor of unionizing, 28 against, according to the Teamsters. Facebook, which reportedly refused to accept the petition, has a contract with Loop Transportation to provide the drivers for the shuttles. Local Teamsters political director Doug Bloch notified the City Council in advance of the Nov. 19 rally and said the union was not out to hurt either the social media company or its relationship with Menlo Park, but to improve working conditions. Although they are paid “decent hourly wages,” the drivers work split shifts and are not paid for the six or more hours they spend waiting for the second half of their shift; many live too far from Menlo Park to go home, according to the Teamsters. Mr. Bloch’s statement also said the drivers pay $1,300 a month for “sub-

standard” health benefits. “The only way that Loop will listen to us is with a union and a collective voice. I’m very relieved that we have that now,” said Demaurae Hooston, a driver, in a press release from the union. Union supporters said it’s time for tech companies to ensure adequate compensation for all of their employees. “These drivers are part of the invisible workforce that makes Silicon Valley run,” said Derecka Mehrens, executive director of Working Partnerships USA, which participated in the rally. “They are members of our communities that work hard every day, but live in poverty, and the business model of tech companies like Facebook counts on that. Tech companies write the checks to subcontractors who hire these drivers and the thousands of other service workers who make these tech giants able to function. They need to set the standards, too, and say ‘no’ to poverty jobs.” Facebook representatives declined to comment. Other Silicon Valley giants, such as Google and Apple, also hire out for employee shuttle drivers, raising the question of whether the union will grow even further. A

Alis Lovering Fern, Menlo resident A memorial service will be held Jan. 17, 2015, at St. Bede’s Episcopal Church for Alis Lovering Fern of Menlo Park, who died suddenly in New York City on Oct. 23. She was 83. Ms. Fern was born in Philadelphia in 1931 and attended Springside School in Chestnut Hill, Pennsylvania. She graduated from the Shipley School in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, and married George M. Fern, then a Navy ensign, on June 7, 1952. After several years in Europe and Japan, the Ferns lived in

BIKE MASTER PLAN continued from page 5

Jennings Lane to Ringwood Avenue. Dedicated on-road bike lanes along its entire length plus a separate off-road, two-way path from Watkins to Marsh. Q Atherton Avenue, from Alameda de las Pulgas to El Camino Real. Initially, a bike route sharing the road with vehicles, with consideration of eventually widening the road to allow dedicated on-road 6 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

Q OB I TUA RY

Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan, for 26 years. They moved to Menlo Park in 1985. Ms. Fern was a member of the Junior League of Palo Alto/Mid-Peninsula. She is survived by her husband, George M. Fern; children Mary Fern Rearick of Oceanside and John Phelps Fern of Kailua, Hawaii; and two grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Heifer International or Guide Dogs of America.

bike lanes in the future. Q Selby Lane from El Camino Real to Selby Lane School. Dedicated on-road bike lanes. Q Elena Avenue/Faxon Road/ Barry Lane/Atherton/Selby Lane and a parallel route splitting off at Isabella Avenue/Elena Avenue/Atherton Avenue/ Austin Avenue. A bike route sharing the road with vehicles. Q Watkins Avenue from El Camino Real to Middlefield Road. A bike route sharing the road with vehicles. A

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Menlo Park police chief: Pursuit, fatal shooting happened ‘in seconds’ By Sandy Brundage Almanac Staff Writer

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econds is how quickly everything went down. Literally seconds,” said Menlo Park Police Chief Bob Jonsen in describing the foot pursuit and fatal shooting of a burglary suspect by three police officers on Nov. 11. Only two of the three officers were wearing body cameras. One camera may have been turned on after the shooting, and one may have been left off, according to District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe. Two cameras were submitted to his office, which is conducting a standard review of the shooting. Sgt. Jaime Romero did activate his camera immediately after the shooting, the police chief said, “probably as quickly as he physically could.” The third officer’s camera had been turned in for repairs, so he was not wearing one. The cameras are mailed back to the manufacturer in Seattle for repairs, Chief Jonsen said. Late last year the department bought 40 VIEVU cameras, which cost more than $1,000 each, but did not order extras. That has now changed. “This incident proved we should just go purchase more,” Chief Jonsen said. The department has ordered 10 additional cameras as back-ups. According to the policy posted on the police department’s website on Nov. 21, all on-duty contact with citizens shall be recorded, with an exemption for urgent, dangerous situations: “At no time is a member expected to jeopardize his/her safety in order to activate a recorder or change the recording media. However, the recorder should be activated in all situations as soon as practical.” The Nov. 11 incident went out as a “suspicious person” call, which Chief Jonsen said nor-

mally turns into a case where the person is in fact somewhere they have a right to be. This can make it a challenge to know when to activate a camera, given that the battery carries only about a 3-hour charge, and the officer works a 12-hour shift. The chief said that buying batteries with a longer lifespan is one option under consideration. “We’ve been talking a lot about this internally,” he said, adding that the camera, Taser and foot-pursuit policies will all be part of the discussion. Chief Jonsen praised the department’s officers for will-

‘We’ve been talking a lot about this internally,’ the chief said, adding that the camera, Taser and foot-pursuit policies will all be part of the discussion. ingly adopting the body cameras while other jurisdictions have faced an uphill battle. And his staff “has been exceptional about activating them.” That said, it takes time for something to become second nature, as well as to make a habit of reaching for the camera when an officer’s dominant hand may be moving to a weapon, he noted. “We would love for the community to accept that we’re trying our best to be transparent,” the chief said. Investigation

Chief Jonsen said he talked to the DA on Nov. 19 for an update. Evidence analysis of fingerprints, DNA and guns is not finished. The investigation will not be complete for an estimated four to six weeks. The shooting occurred on

Willow Road in Menlo Park around 12:50 p.m. In addition to Sgt. Romero, the police department identified the other officers involved as Scott Mackdanz and Nicholas Douglas. All three are on paid leave, as is department policy, the chief said. Sgt. Romero has been an officer for 18 years, Officer Mackdanz for 16, and Officer Douglas for 11. The attorney representing Sgt. Romero said his camera was turned on at some point, but that she didn’t know what was on it. “I haven’t had the chance to review the footage,” Alison Berry Wilkinson said. An employee reported spotting a suspected burglar near 64 Willow Place. The police officers did not initially see the suspect, Jerry Lee Matheny, 52, of Riverside County, who fled as they arrived, the police chief said. A foot chase ensued. According to the report, Mr. Matheny pulled a handgun and pointed it at the officers after they attempted to stop the pursuit with a Taser. Sgt. Romero told his attorney that he heard a shot and then returned fire. All three officers fired their guns, Mr. Wagstaffe said. The crime lab has not yet determined whether Mr. Matheny had shot at them. At the time of the shooting, Mr. Matheny was wanted by the state for parole violation related to drug charges, and also had two counts of felony commercial burglary and one count of identity theft pending in San Mateo County. Although there may not be video footage of the shooting, Chief Jonsen said relatively consistent accounts from numerous other witnesses are available, given that it occurred in the middle of the day, in addition to the forensics. “It’s not just three officers in an alley with nobody around,” he said. A

Inspirations a guide to the spiritual community WOODSIDE VILLAGE CHURCH Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. with Sunday School and Nursery Care Pastor Mike Harvey Rev. Dorothy Straks 3154 Woodside Road Woodside 650.851.1587 www.wvchurch.org

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M-A principal named district facilities officer By Dave Boyce Almanac Staff Writer

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n gearing up to manage the expansion of classroom facilities to meet a coming surge in enrollment, the board of the Sequoia Union High School District named Matthew Zito, principal at Menlo-Atherton High School, to be the district’s chief facilities officer. Mr. Zito, M-A’s principal since July 2007, received a unanimous vote from the school board on

Nov. 19. The position is new. Mr. Zito will oversee the planning and development of new facilities on the district’s by Betsy Snow four campuses Photo Matthew Zito and at Redwood Continuation School in Redwood City. Mr. Zito’s transition away from M-A will be gradual. Between January and July, he will spend

half his time sharing duties as principal with Administrative Vice Principal Simone RickKennel, according to a letter to the school community from Superintendent James Lianides. Mr. Zito will be spending the other half of his time focusing on the first phase of the districtwide construction project. He will also oversee the district’s search for sites for two small high schools — one located in See ZITO, page 8

171 University Ave., Palo Alto 650.328.7411 • www.paloaltobicycles.com Hours: Mon. - Fri. 10am - 7pm, Sat. 10am - 6pm, Sun. 11am - 5pm November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 7

N E W S ZITO continued from page 7

the Menlo Park area — for 300 to 400 students each. The search for a new principal will begin in February and conclude with an appointment announcement at the April 15 board meeting, Mr. Lianides said. Mr. Zito is now paid $165,095 annually and may get a raise of as much as $10,000 to $12,000 when his compensation is decided in December, Mr. Lianides said. The new position is on a par with an assistant superintendent; Mr. Zito will report directly to the superintendent, Mr. Lianides said. Measure A

When voters approved Measure A in June, they authorized the Sequoia district to borrow up to $265 million in the bond market to acquire the two sites

and to build new classrooms and related facilities on the existing campuses. Enrollment at M-A is expected to grow by at least 25 percent by 2020-21, and by as much as 19 percent at Woodside High. Since all the campuses are built out, the district is likely to make more room by adding second stories to classroom buildings. Plans showed M-A receiving a total of 22 new classrooms. In addition to 17 regular classrooms, there would be two for science, one for chemistry and two for the arts or career technical education. (Five new regular classrooms are already funded.) Woodside would get 15 new classrooms: 12 regular and one each for science, chemistry and art or career technical education. The district will start construction in the summer of 2015, Mr. Lianides said. A

DeGolia, Lempres, Widmer take seats on Atherton council By Barbara Wood Almanac Staff Writer

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t took two weeks to determine who had won the third open seat on the Atherton City Council in the Nov. 4 election. With all ballots counted by Nov. 18, Mike Lempres had won the seat and had, in fact, moved ahead of incumbent Bill Widmer by 5 votes. Only incumbent Rick DeGolia had a clear lead in the race, ending up with 1,762 votes. The remaining three candidates were separated by only 34 votes: Mr. Lempres had 1,368 votes, Mr. Widmer had 1,363, and Rose Hau, who finished out of the running, had 1,334. Despite the close race, the

John William Bacon It is with great sadness that the family of John William Bacon announces his passing. He was 84 years old when he died at his home in Atherton from cardiac arrest in the early morning of November 13th. John William Bacon was born in San Mateo, California in 1930 to John Andrew Bacon and Helen Oberhelman Bacon, both natives of New Orleans. A lifelong resident of the Peninsula, he grew up in Burlingame and attended Our Lady of Angels School, Serra High School, Army and Navy Academy, and Santa Clara University. In 1950 he married the love of his life, Lynn Jackson Bacon; they were together for 64 years. They had eight children, and in 1963 moved to Atherton where they lived for the remainder of John’s life. John’s career in the lumberbusiness began in the early 50’s at San Bruno Lumber Company. In 1964 he purchased San Mateo Lumber with his fatherin-law William W. Jackson. In 1971 he left San Bruno Lumber and acquired South City Lumber and Supply in South San Francisco. In 1975 he purchased Economy Lumber Company, Oakland, and in 2010 Piedmont Lumber in Oakland, now Economy Lumber Piedmont. Over six decades John built one of the largest group of lumber and building material companies in Northern California. By understanding the needs of professional contractors his companies were able to thrive in the face of growing competition. During the 1950’s, John, working with his brother Donald Bacon and others, opened the Green Giant Nursery in Millbrae. A certain grocery vegetable company forced a name change to Green Garden Nursery.They became involved in organizing the Western Garden and Trade show which became the San Francisco Outdoor Garden Exposition in 1967. John kept horses in Woodside for many years while training for, participating in, and finishing, the endurance ride — The Western States Trail Ride, the Tevis Cup — 100 miles with the same horse and rider from Tahoe City to Auburn in under 24 hours. He was a member of the Rancheros Visitadores,

and delighted in telling tales of his experiences on the trail of their annual ride near Santa Barbara. He served on the Alumni Board of the Army and Navy Academy in Carlsbad. If there are founding fathers of bike riding in the Menlo-Atherton, John was one. He knew very inch of “The Loop”, the Alpine Rd. Sandhill Rd. ride that from the early 1960’s into the 1990’s was part of his weekend, usually accompanied by his good friend Douglas Hughmanick of Atherton, often trailed by a collection of their children. John was an insatiable reader, particularly of history, and always wanted to discuss the latest book. He loved to cook and barbecue for his family and friends whom he entertained with wit and wisdom as he tended the chicken and ribs. Late in life he took up painting and surprised many, including himself, with his artistic talent. John was by nature a very generous man. Giving to charities and causes too numerous to mention was an important part of his life. John is survived by his wife, Lynn Jackson Bacon of Atherton, and seven children:Leslie Bacon of Berkeley, John Bacon Jr. (Patricia Bolich) of Orinda, Grant Bacon of Burlingame, Thomas Bacon (Martha Abrams) of Menlo Park, William Bacon of Belmont, Susan McComas (Alex) of Palo Alto, and Peter Bacon of Lake Oswego, Oregon. John was blessed with sixteen grandchildren: Ariel (Sage), Ella, Alice, John III (Jack), Adam, Lena, Sarah, Adelaide, Ruth, Will, Lucy, Scott, Molly, Ashley, Emily and Alex.He enjoyed spending time with his four great-grandchildren, Olive, Charlie, Elle (Cheech), and Seneca. John was pre-deceased by his son, Scott Michael Bacon of Redwood City in 1995, and his only brother Donald, of Tillamook, Oregon in 2013. He is also survived by two nephews and a niece in Portland. He was loved and admired by many, and will be enormously missed. Services have been held. In Lieu of flowers please donate to: Doctors Without Borders Smile Train PAID

8 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

OBITUARY

ran “respectful” campaigns. “We were able to have conversations whether we agreed or disagreed,” he said. “I was The winners, from left, are Rick DeGolia, Mike thrilled with Lempres and Bill Widmer. that, and obviously I was fourth-place candidate said thrilled that I won.” He said that he knocked on a she has no plans to request a recount. “It is over,” Ms. Hau lot of doors during his campaign said. She is looking forward to and heard some consistent conremaining on the town’s Civic cerns from Atherton residents, Center Advisory Committee including about transportation and continuing her work on the and traffic, high-speed rail, noise and the town’s budget. new civic center, she said. He said he hopes to focus on Mr. Lempres, 54, is an attorney who works for Silicon Valley those issues as well as to work Bank, overseeing many of its to make sure Atherton is ready legal functions and heading its to deal with the problems government affairs program. He brought on by regional growth, serves on the town’s Transporta- especially in neighboring Mention Committee and Rail Com- lo Park and Redwood City. mittee and is a fifth-generation Those problems, he said, are Californian who has lived in “not going to go away and if we don’t make a decision over the Atherton for five years. Mr. Lempres said he was next couple of years it’s going to happy that all four candidates be made for us.” A

Artistic rendering courtesy VA Palo Alto Health Care System

The development by Willow Housing, L.P., on Department of Veteran Affairs land in Menlo Park will provide housing for veterans in need.

Menlo Park VA leases land to developer for housing A new living facility with 60 units of housing will be built for homeless and at-risk veterans on the Menlo Park campus of the Department of Veteran Affairs, the VA announced Nov. 22. The VA has reached a longterm contract with CORE Affordable Housing to lease just under two acres of land for the housing. Following the agreement, which was completed on Oct. 29, the developer, under the name Willow Housing L.P., will start construction of the 40,000-square-foot facility on Dec. 1. The building’s architecture will incorporate the CaliforniaSpanish style and use landscaping that complements the natural surroundings, the VA said. Six one-bedroom and 54 studio

units will be available, with monthly rent ranging from $574 to $792. Willow Housing plans to have the project completed by December 2015. The Menlo Park City Council unanimously agreed in January to loan CORE $2.8 million, plus up to $360,000 to offset development fees, to help make the project a reality and add to the city’s stock of state-mandated low-income housing. The VA provided the land, valued at over $13 million, at no cost, and CORE also received a $2.2 million loan from San Mateo County. The VA Palo Alto Health Care System consists of three inpatient facilities located in Palo Alto, Menlo Park and Livermore.

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Woodside plans to replace, rehabilitate old bridges By Dave Boyce Almanac Staff Writer

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ith the completion of a $190,000 engineering study, the future is now less uncertain for four elderly but vital two-lane, singlespan bridges in Woodside on Mountain Home, Kings Mountain, Portola and Old La Honda roads. The two arched bridges — across Mountain Home and Kings Mountain roads — have been judged historic and should be rehabilitated, and the other two replaced at an overall cost of around $3.8 million, according to a staff report to the Town Council. The council considered the report on Nov. 18 and gave the go-ahead to staff to seek federal funding for the work. In combination with maintenance needed on the town’s storm drain system and completion of the safe-routes-to-school project, the town’s infrastructure work is expected to take five to 10 years to complete, Town Engineer Paul Nagengast said. The council is planning a study session to discuss the town’s infrastructure and its upkeep if state and/or federal funds do not come through. The town learned in the fall, for example, that it did not win a grant of $855,000 to construct a new multi-use path along the south side of Woodside Road between the school and Roberts Market. The town could have accepted federal money to simply replace the bridges, but at a cost to rural ambiance: the bridges would have been much wider. The council commissioned the engineering study to determine ways to have the bridges meet current standards without losing the charm they have acquired over a century of use. A detailed analysis of their actual condition improves the chances for federal funding without the widening requirement, Mr. Nagengast said.

Q WOODSIDE

The arched bridges have structural deficiencies, the report says, and lists options for rehabilitating them. The recommended fix, at a cost of about $1.68 million for the two bridges, would fit each bridge with a curved structural steel plate under the arch and extend their lives by at least 50 years, the report says. Most challenging

The Portola Road bridge over Alambique Creek is problematic in that the alignment of the bridge’s north approach does not meet federal standards for a bridge with 3,000 vehicle crossings a day. Realignment may be complicated in that it’s not clear where the public right-of-way begins and ends, Mr. Nagengast said. This bridge, with a recommended fix that would run $1.16 million, will be the most challenging in terms of getting federal funding, he said. “They’re going to want a wider bridge,” he said. While there are lower cost options, the federal government puts a high priority on safe infrastructure, said Carolyn Davis of Quincy Engineering, the Sacramento firm that did the analysis. “When you have a bridge that’s this old, you typically don’t want to invest a lot of money in (repairing) it,” she said. Resident Thalia Lubin, a member of the town’s History Committee, said she wasn’t terribly concerned about preserving this bridge. “It’s the least culturally significant,” she said. Covered by moss

The bridge on Old La Honda Road has the highest priority, Mr. Nagengast said. The California Department of Transportation recently found “extensive deterioration” on the girders underneath the bridge side rails. In response, the town painted

Photo by Quincy Engineering

This 114-year-old bridge on Mountain Home Road in Woodside crosses Bear Gulch Creek and is one of two century-old bridges being considered for rehabilitation with a structural steel plate fitted under the arch.

new white fog lines to narrow the bridge lane and keep traffic away from the edges, Mr. Nagengast said. This bridge, thought to have been built in the 1920s as part of the August Schilling estate, is surrounded by a facade of sorts. There are artificial boulders alongside, covered with real moss, and an artificial grotto under the bridge. The side rails, also moss-covered, are a feature the council should consider salvaging, restoring or recreating on the new bridge, Mr. Nagengast said. “The point is, we want to recreate how you currently enter the neighborhood,” he told the Almanac. “That’s what we don’t want to lose.” As for the “boulders” and the grotto, the environmental review process will dictate whether those elements are kept or not, he said. Replacement options range

from $920,000 for a concrete culvert to $1.25 million for precast concrete; all would extend the bridge’s life by at least 75 years. A key question will be whether the bridge would be closed to traffic during the work, and if so, for how long. Low ratings

Quincy’s analyses was based on bridge records, on-site inspections, ground-penetrating radar and the effects of streambed erosion. The engineering report included load-bearing ratings, which vary according to the number of axles on the truck. Under current standards, any of these bridges should be able to handle a dump truck weighing up to 25 tons, a commercial trailer truck of up to 36 tons, and a tandem trailer truck of up to 40 tons. According to the study, none

were close to the stated capacity, but all had plenty of life left in them. The Mountain Home Road bridge is rated 12 tons, 19 tons and 23 tons, respectively, but can serve for 20 more years, the report says. The Kings Mountain Road bridge also has 20 years left in it, but has the lowest rating: 3 tons for all truck categories. The Portola Road bridge can serve for another 10 years and is rated at 6, 10 and 12 tons, the report says. Despite their low ratings, these bridges can handle heavier loads because their deterioration is likely to be gradual. The ratings specify loads that “have been determined to safely cross without accelerating deterioration,” Mr. Nagengast told the Almanac. “We try to reroute construction traffic away from the bridges (but) we don’t have bridge police,” he added. A

Bruce Carlsmith named to Woodside’s architecture board By Dave Boyce Almanac Staff Writer

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he newest member of Woodside’s Architecture and Site Review Board is resident Bruce Carlsmith, the organizer of the town’s recent soapbox derbies and an active volunteer for the Woodside Elementary School. The Town Council approved his appointment on a 5-2 vote

on Nov. 18, with council members Anne Kasten and Peter Mason dissenting. Mr. Carlsmith will serve the remainder of Rick Anderson’s four-year term. Mr. Anderson left the seven-member board in mid-October. Mr. Carlsmith’s term expires in February 2015, when he would be up for reappointment by the council. The ASRB’s mission is a

tough one: preserve Woodside’s “rural” character and natural beauty while still allowing residents the freedom to design homes to match their wealth and ambitions. Mr. Carlsmith is selfemployed. According to his application to join the ASRB, he buys, remodels and manages single-family homes and apartments. Most of his work

was done in Sacramento and Marin County, he said. Along with managing the soapbox derbies, his local volunteer work includes the design and construction of a garden building for the school that includes a potting area, kitchen and greenhouse platform on which he assembled a greenhouse. He also built 14 raised-bed garden boxes at

the school. The whole council, including Mr. Mason and Ms. Kasten, made a standing offer to Mr. Carlsmith to be available for questions and advice. “I look forward to having him tell us how the experience is and how it’s going for him when he comes back for reappointment,” Ms. Kasten told the Almanac. A

November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 9

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Expanding horizons for underserved kids By Kate Daly Special to the Almanac

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wo former teachers are working hard to offer free outdoor education to thousands of underserved students in the Bay Area. Thanks to one couple’s efforts and the support of local donors, the nonprofit Vida Verde, based in San Gregorio, has served about 5,500 “at risk” children over the years. Every week during the school year, groups of up to 30 fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders camp out with a teacher and parent chaperones for two nights and three days. They sleep in teepees at the Optimist Youth Camp on La Honda Road and make side trips to a nearby organic farm, redwood forest, and the coast. For many of the 750 students who participate each year, this is the first time they have hiked through the woods or splashed in the ocean. The whole idea is to expose them to nature, to get them comfortable with exploring and trying new things and “to get the kids excited about learning,” says co-founder and executive director Shawn Sears. Now in his 30s, Mr. Sears met his future wife, Laura, when they were students at Colorado College. After college they both went to work for Teach for America in Mississippi for two years, and then moved to California to start Vida Verde in 2001. Back when they were teachers, they decided there’s no such thing as a bad kid. “They are all good kids Ö they have a brightness to them, and skills and specialness about them. Our job is to find out what moves them,” Mr. Sears says. In October fifth-graders from Willow Oaks School in Menlo Park spent a day hiking in Sam McDonald County Park. They kissed banana slugs and did a short solo walk

in the dark. The next day they visited the organic farm where the Sears family lives and works among the chickens, ducks, goats and llama. The students’ classroom teacher, Eric Edwards, described the morning’s activities: “They milked goats, made queso fresco, and picked a few squash or something off the vine.” This was his second Vida Verde trip and “both times I have been impressed,” he said. “They have a very smooth flow, are very organized in a positive way.” In the afternoon the group explored Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve with lead

Vida Verde offers free outdoor education adventures. instructor Sierra Predovich, a native of Redwood City. “Oh, a lizard!” exclaimed one student, looking around to see what else was hiding on the pickle weed trail as a pelican flew overhead. Across from a great blue heron rookery, Ms. Predovich gathered everyone around to tell a story about “an amazing magical tree” named Eudora. After they climbed into the eucalyptus’ branches Ms. Predovich exclaimed, “This tree is alive and she’s so happy we’ve come!” The next destination was a short walk away, Pescadero State Beach. The students stopped just long enough to ditch their shoes and roll up their pants. “That’s so cold!” one student shrieked when a wave lapped at his feet. Another student got almost completely soaked, but was too thrilled to be bothered by it.

Holiday train stops in Menlo Park Tens of thousands of lights will decorate the Caltrain holiday train when it makes its way from San Francisco to Santa Clara on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6 and 7. The train will stop at nine stations, including Menlo Park at 7:45 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7. This will be the 12th year the train has traveled down the Peninsula visiting local stations. At each 20-minute station stop

there will be onboard carolers and a Salvation Army brass band. Santa and Mrs. Claus will pose for pictures, along with Frosty the Snowman and the Toy Soldier. Volunteers from the Salvation Army and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program will be at each station collecting new unwrapped toys for local children

10 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

Six seals poked up their heads in the surf to watch the noisemakers on shore. Sandy feet and all, the students returned to the 15-passenger Vida Verde van that runs on biofuel. Minutes later they arrived back at camp in time to put on dry clothes, make dinner, and sit around the campfire. School groups must cover the transportation to and from the campsite, and bring food for four meals that will be prepared and eaten communal-style. The vans shuttle between activities and locations. There are two eligibility requirements: 85 percent or more of the students must qualify for free or reduced price lunch, and the schools must have no other overnight environmental education opportunities in grades 3 through 6. Most schools return year after year, booking their spots a year in advance and making it tough for new schools to move off the long waiting list. Rob Selig of Woodside has supported Vida Verde since the beginning. His wife Meryl says he met the Searses through the Colorado College alumni network “and he was sold on their idea.” “They understand food sources and ecology, and help teachers build off the curriculum in their classrooms,” Ms. Selig said. She said she is inspired by the Searses’ sustainability and impressed with how the couple has grown the business. “Laura has been asked to speak around the country to use Vida Verde as a role model of outdoor education,” Ms. Selig said. As the director of development of the nonprofit, Ms. Sears seeks out grants, which led her to Marcia Pade of Menlo Park. Ms. Pade is a board member of SV2, a group that

Photo by Kate Daly

Willow Oaks fifth-graders explore the outdoors with Vida Verde.

pools its resources to invest in nonprofits she describes as “impactful.” Ms. Pade said SV2 has granted Vida Verde about $40,000 for three years because “they really fill an important niche.” She points to a study that shows when underserved students have access to outdoor education “grades in science go up about 25 percent, the teachers found out they’re more engaged, and teachers see more leadership skills.” People can sponsor kids, donate stocks, money and/ or materials to support Vida Verde. For example, Rob Boynton of Woodside donated his Midland Cabinet products

to set up an office for the small staff. A wish list posted on the organization’s website asks for anything from female chicks to sleeping bags, coats, and a tractor. The Searses said they would eventually like to purchase a permanent home for the program. “We may have found a site,” Mr. Sear said. On Sunday, Dec. 7, Vida Verde is hosting a brunch in East Palo Alto to celebrate and benefit its students. For more information, send an email to Jody@vveducation.org. Go to vveducation.org for more information on Vida Verde. A

Model railroaders showcase new layout The West Bay Model Railroad Association will show the progress it’s made on a new model railway layout with open houses on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 6 and 7, at the Model Railroad Building at 1090 Merrill St. in Menlo Park, just south of the train station and near Ravenswood Avenue. The hours are 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday and 5 to 9 p.m. Sunday. Cal-

train’s holiday train is scheduled to arrive at the Menlo Park station at 7:45 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7. Admission to the open houses is free, but donations are appreciated, said Lauren Mercer of the model railroaders. The association started building the new layout about a year and a half ago, and didn’t hold an open house last year, he said. This year, the open houses will

show the progress the association has made by running trains on one level of a proposed twolevel layout. Club members will be available to answer questions. “The layout is a long ways from being completed but we are able to have part of it operational,” Mr. Mercer said. Visit wbmrra.ning.com or call (650) 322-0685 for more information.

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Corporate Contribution New development in the M-2 Area provides physical community benefits in Belle Haven, including housing, schools, libraries, neighborhood retail, childcare, public open space, telecommunications, and transportation choices.

DA sheds more light on sheriff employees’ arrests By Scott Morris

2013, Mr. Ismael allegedly delivered at least two cellphones to Hells Angels member is him after communicating with accused of conspiring his sister, Amanda Lopez, 25, with sheriff ’s employees and girlfriend, Roxanne Ingeto smuggle cellphones and drugs bretsen, 28, outside of the jail, into a Redwood City jail, accord- Mr. Wagstaffe said. Dionicio Lopez’s mother, Letiing to San Mateo County District cia Lopez, 55, allegedly bought Attorney Steve Wagstaffe. Dionicio Lopez Jr., 26, was out a cellphone and handed it off to on $1 million bail and await- Ms. Ingebretsen, who gave it to ing trial for allegedly shooting Mr. Ismael. At one point, Dionicio Lopez at a Daly City home in 2011 when he was re-arrested for the sold a cellphone to another alleged conspiracy and his bail inmate and Mr. Ismael allegwas increased to $2 million. He edly brought him another one, remains in custody, but pros- according to the DA’s office. ecutors now hope to have bail Last November, Dionicio Lopez asked Mr. Del Carlo to take a revoked altogether. His new charges include three cellphone out of his cell and two counts of conspiracy, smuggling days later Mr. Del Carlo allegdrugs into jail and possession of edly brought it back, according to the complaint. drugs while in jail. At one point, Deputy Juan Prosecutors announced Nov. 14 the arrest of three Sheriff’s Lopez took a photo of two other inmates with one Office employees of the contraband in connection with phones, according an alleged conAlleged gang to the complaint. spiracy to smuggle The cellphones cellphones and member accused allegedly allowed drugs into the of conspiring Dionicio Lopez Maguire Correcwith sheriff’s to communicate tional Facility. The while in jail with arrested men are employees his mother, sister Deputy Juan Pablo to smuggle and girlfriend as Lopez and corwell as fellow Hells rections officers contraband Angels members. George Ismael and into jail. In that way, he Michael Del Carlo. arranged to smugMr. Wagstaffe said that prosecutors have found gle oxycodone, alprazolam and no family relationship between ibuprofen into the jail, prosecuJuan Lopez and Dionicio Lopez. tors said. The cellphone and pills were Each of the arrested Sheriff’s Office employees has more than found hidden in a light fixture a decade of experience with the in Dionicio Lopez’s jail cell in Sheriff ’s Office. Juan Lopez December, according to the unsuccessfully ran as a write-in complaint. All seven defendants are faccandidate to unseat Sheriff Greg Munks in June, receiving 1.4 ing conspiracy charges, and Amanda Lopez, Ms. Ingebretsen percent of the vote. Prosecutors allege that the and Mr. Ismael are also charged men assisted Dionicio Lopez with providing Dionicio Lopez in smuggling cellphones into with drugs. While all the defendants have the jail while he was in custody between April and December been charged, they were arrested at different times and in dif2013. Dionicio Lopez was placed in ferent jurisdictions. Only Mr. custody after he was charged Ismael, who was arraigned Nov. with shooting into a Daly City 17, and Dionicio Lopez have home in which he mistak- appeared in court on the chargenly thought a rival gang mem- es, while the other defendants ber was living. The shooting have bailed out and are expected occurred on July 24, 2011. The to appear over the coming bullet ricocheted off a televi- weeks, Mr. Wagstaffe said. Juan Lopez is scheduled to sion and lodged in a wall after narrowly missing two young appear in court on Dec. 31; children who were watching TV Amanda Lopez, her mother and Ms. Ingebretsen, on Dec. 19; and inside, prosecutors said. While Dionicio Lopez was Mr. Del Carlo on Dec. 31, Mr. in custody for those charges in Wagstaffe said. Bay City News Service

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As part of the ConnectMenlo General Plan update, nine Guiding Principles have been identified by community members to reflect the goals and values of the city. These principles will serve as the foundation for future goals, policies and programs of the Land Use and Circulation Elements of the General Plan and new zoning for the M-2 business park area near Highway 101.

Youth Support and Education Equality All Menlo Park children and young adults have access to high-quality childcare, education, meaningful employment opportunities, and useful training, including internship opportunities at local companies.

Multi-Modal Access Menlo Park provides thoroughly connected, safe and convenient transportation, adequate emergency vehicle access, and multiple options for people traveling by foot, bicycle, shuttle, bus, car and train, including daily service along the Dumbarton Rail Corridor.

Complete Neighborhoods Menlo Park neighborhoods are complete communities, featuring well-integrated and designed development, and vibrant commercial areas with a mix of community focused businesses that conveniently serve adjacent neighborhoods while respecting their character.

Accessible Open Space and Recreation Citywide Equity Menlo Park neighborhoods share the benefits and impacts of local growth and enjoy equal access to quality services, education, public open space, a range of housing in balance with local job opportunities, and convenient daily shopping such as grocery stores and pharmacies.

Healthy Community Everyone in Menlo Park can safely walk or bike to fresh food, medical services, employment, recreational facilities, and other daily destinations; land owners and occupants take pride in the appearance of property; the City enforces codes and prioritizes improvements that promote safety and healty living; and the entire city is well-served by emergency services and community policing.

Menlo Park provides safe and convenient access to an ample amount of local and regional parks and open space, recreational facilities, trails, and enhancements to wetlands and the Bay.

Competitive and Innovative Business Destination Menlo Park embraces emerging technologies, local intelligence, entreneurship, and development to grow and attract successful companies that generate local economic activity and tax revenue for the entire community

Sustainable Environmental Planning Menlo Park supports regional collaborative efforts and employs best practices to address climate change, adapt to sea-level rise, protect natural resources, and promote energy conservation and renewable energy.

Mobile Website connectmenlo2go.com

Mark your calendar! 2014 Dates to Remember...

To learn more about ConnectMenlo, see a detailed schedule of events, and sign up for email bulletins, visit the project web page located online at www.menlopark.org/connectmenlo.

Ž General Plan Advisory

Committee (GPAC) Meeting #3 Thursday, December 4, 2014 6:00-8:30 pm Oak Room, Arrillaga Family Rec Center 700 Alma Street

Ž

Planning Commission/City Council Study Session Tuesday, December 9, 2014 7:00 pm City Council Chambers 701 Laurel Street

Ž Community Workshop

Land Use Alternatives in the M-2 Area Thursday, December 18, 2014 7:00-9:00 pm Menlo Park Senior Center 100 Terminal Avenue

Note: Meeting dates and times are subject to change. Additional meeting dates listed online.

November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 11

A R T S C E N E

Two women pursue art as second career By Sheryl Nonnenberg Special to the Almanac

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lyse Dunnahoo and Krishna Mitra have a lot in common. They live within a half mile of each other in West Menlo Park; they enjoyed successful first careers and are now dedicated to pursuing second careers as artists; and their artwork is on display in a two-person exhibition in the Caldwell Gallery at the Hall of Justice in Redwood City. Until recently, the two had never met. But given how similar their life stories are and the fact that it is a small world, their intersection was probably inevitable. “Still Lifes: Two Visions� features their oil and acrylic paintings and will be on view until Dec. 31. The corridor gallery is sponsored by the San Mateo County Arts Commission and is located on the first floor of the building at 400 County Center (a place familiar to anyone who has been called to appear for jury duty). Visitors must pass through a security checkpoint, but once inside, they are rewarded by a fabulously rich and colorful display of flowers (tulips, sunflowers, orchids and bird of paradise) by Ms. Mitra and exquisitely rendered still lifes by Ms. Dunnahoo. Krishna Mitra

Ms. Mitra was born in Sydney, Australia, and holds advanced degrees in physics and computer science. After 20 years as a software engineer, she left high-tech

Krishna Mitra

Elyse Dunnahoo

and decided to pursue a lifelong interest in art. Although she had never taken a formal art class, she credits a biology teacher — “a stickler for detail� who made students execute very exact drawings — for giving her the discipline needed to create art. She began taking art classes and workshops through Stanford’s Continuing Studies Program and found that she was hooked. An avid gardener and hiker, she found that inspiration was close at hand. Flowers are a favorite subject matter and she begins by taking photographs. From there, she prepares a drawing and then mixes her paints. She says she prefers working with acrylics because they dry quickly and she likes the way “the colors pop.� She is very clear about the fact that she is not trying to replicate nature; most of her work is a stylized version of reality. “I like to play around with color, to plot things out,� she says. “I guess it is just the engineer in me.� Her floral studies are lush, bright evocations and the perspective is that of a close-up view, reminiscent of the work of

Invitation for Bids Remodel of District Residence at 4411 Alpine Road, Portola Valley NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (District) will receive bids at their (KTPUPZ[YH[P]L 6Ń?JL SVJH[LK H[ +PZ[LS *PYJSL 3VZ (S[VZ *( on or before 3:00 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2015 MVY [OL M\YUPZOPUN VM HSS SHIVY TH[LYPHSZ HUK ZLY]PJLZ YLX\PYLK for the following designated scope of work: Asbestos and SLHK HIH[LTLU[ PUZ[HSSH[PVU VM UL^ ^PUKV^Z WSHZ[LYPUN VM SV^LY NHYHNL ^PUKV^Z IH[OYVVT \WNYHKLZ OLH[PUN SPNO[PUN \WNYHKLZ UL^ Ă…VVYPUN PU ILKYVVTZ OHSS^H` HUK YVVM YLWHPYZ H[ [OL YLZPKLUJL SVJH[LK PU >PUK` /PSS 6WLU Space Preserve. All bidders must attend a mandatory pre-bid meeting and site tour scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 8, 2014 9LZLY]H[PVUZ YLX\PYLK *VU[HJ[! 3\WL /LYUHUKLa H[ UV SH[LY [OHU W T VU >LKULZKH` +LJLTILY [V THRL H reservation and receive directions. *VTWSL[L WYVQLJ[ PUMVYTH[PVU PZ JVU[HPULK ^P[OPU [OL WYVQLJ[ )PK 7HJRHNL ^OPJO ^PSS IL H]HPSHISL UV SH[LY [OHU >LKULZKH` +LJLTILY VUSPUL H[ [OL +PZ[YPJ[ÂťZ ^LIZP[L! O[[W! ^^^ VWLUZWHJL VYN UL^Z YLX\LZ[FMVYFIPKZ HZW ( OHYKJVW` PZ H]HPSHISL MVY YL]PL^ H[ [OL +PZ[YPJ[ (KTPUPZ[YH[P]L 6Ń?JL 12 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

“Lying in Wait� by Elyse Dunnahoo, oil on board, 12x24 inches.

Georgia O’Keefe, an artist she greatly admires. Ms. Mitra now works full time on her paintings and has created a studio in an alcove of her living room. She regularly participates in juried shows and South Bay Open Studios. She enjoys showing and talking about her current work and her plans to experiment with landscapes. She explains: “I have become more creative in many different aspects of my life, as a result of my passion for art.� Elise Dunnahoo

Ms. Dunnahoo also came to art after years as an entrepreneur, and a full-time mother. Born in New Mexico, she studied biology at UC Irvine and originally intended to become a doctor. She had taken a lot of drawing classes in college and her skills came in handy when she decided to design a line of biking apparel geared toward women. Explaining that “it was a niche that had not been filled,� she said her clothing was sold in stores such as Nordstrom and REI, and even internationally for 12 years. She decided to end the business as her demands at home (she is mother to twins) became greater and “I just wasn’t doing anything well.� She became, she says, “a closet artist.� A workshop on portraiture served as reminder of how much she enjoyed art and she decided to devote herself to drawing, often for hours a day. She sought out instruction with Ted Seth Jacobs and Anthony Ryder and immersed herself in the study ‘Still Lifes: Two Visions’

The Caldwell Gallery, at 400 County Center at the Hall of Justice in Redwood City, is open Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, contact elysedunnahoo@gmail.com or Krishna@ jakubson.com.

“Opening Act� by Krishna Mitra, 30x30 inch acrylic.

of classical realism. This genre focuses on table-top still lifes, much like the work of Dutch masters that capture the serenity of natural north light. Ms. Dunnahoo says she often spends 30 hours on one small painting, using oil paint and glazes to create her quiet, intimate views of vases, butterflies and flowers. She strives, she says, “to mimic a brief moment in time, a quick glance, portrayed through the strength and stillness of form resting with quiet ease.� Her studio is a curiosity cabinet of butterflies mounted on boards and uniquely shaped bowls and vases that she finds in thrift shops. The windows of the room are darkened by

black curtains, except for the all-important north-facing window where her easel is mounted. She recently had her portfolio critiqued at the San Francisco Art Institute, and plans to enter more competitions in the future. Teresa Silvestri, curator of the Caldwell Gallery, says she paired the “bold, contemporary� style of Ms. Mitra with the “soft, traditional� style of Ms. Dunnahoo because she thought their diverse approaches complemented each other. While their techniques may differ, both are enjoying a fruitful and creative second act. A Sheryl Nonnenberg is an art researcher/writer who lives in Menlo Park. nonnenberg@aol.com

C O M M U N I T Y

Meals on Wheels seeks donations on ‘Giving Tuesday’ The local Meals on Wheels program is hoping to raise funds on “Giving Tuesday” Dec. 2. It’s a new campaign to encourage charitable donations and combat the rampant consumerism that occurs on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Sponsored by the Peninsula Volunteers organization, Meals on Wheels delivers 70,000 meals annually to seniors from Belmont through East Palo Alto. Go to www.penvol.org to contribute.

‘Christmas at Our House’ St. Francis High School’s 26th annual “Christmas at Our House” will feature tours of three homes in the Los Altos/ Los Altos Hills area on Dec. 4, 5 and 6. The event kicks off with a Christmas Gala on Dec. 4. A Twilight Tour from 4 to 7 p.m. will be followed by a cocktail buffet from 7 to 10 p.m. at St. William Church, 611 S. El Monte Ave. in Los Altos. The home tours on Dec, 5 and 6 include three homes and a tea, the luncheon buffet and a boutique stocked by vendors around the Bay Area. A

activities are free to the public on this special day. For more information, call 299-0104.

Q A R O U N D TOW N

complimentary shuttle will be available at St. William Church, where guests can pick up their tickets. Guests may also drive to the homes on display. Over the past 26 years, the St. Francis Women’s Club has raised more than $2 million through “Christmas at Our House.” Home tour tickets are $45$50. Luncheon buffet tickets are $30 and may be used from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 5 or 6. Twilight Tour and Christmas Gala tickets are $125 per person and sell out quickly. For tickets, visit sfhs.com.

Holiday traditions around the world

Santa visits Santa Claus will visit the Children’s Health Council from 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday, Dec. 6, for a morning of creative activities for children ages 2 to 8. There will be photos with Santa, refreshments, and treat bags at this fundraiser for the Children’s Health Council schools. Cost is $35 for adults and $15 for children. The Children’s Health Council is located at 650 Clark Way at Sand Hill Road in Palo Alto. For more information, call 3656837.

Food for Fines

A children’s crafts program featuring holiday traditions from around the world will be presented by the San Mateo County History Museum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6. There will be a concert by the San Francisco State University handbell choir at 1 p.m. Santa Claus will also be at the museum and children may have their photo taken with him. All

Have an overdue book from the library? Now’s your chance to clear fines and help others by donating food during the San Mateo County Library’s “Food for Fines” program, which runs through Dec. 31. Customers may take any amount of nonperishable boxed or canned food to any of San Mateo County Library’s 12 branches, and library fines and fees will be waived. All col-

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lected food is donated to the Second Harvest Food Bank of San Clara and San Mateo Counties. In 2013 San Mateo County Library received the Second Harvest Food Bank Gold Award for its “Food for Fines” program, which resulted in more than 25,000 pounds of food being collected.

InnVision’s holiday appeal The Menlo Park-based InnVision Shelter Network, which provides housing and services for homeless families and individuals, received a donation of home furnishings from IKEA in East Palo Alto as a kickoff for its annual holiday fundraising drive. The IKEA furnishings, couches, tables, chairs and lamps will be installed at two local shel-

ters for homeless families. The shelters are part of a system of 17 facilities operated by InnVision Shelter Network that serve homeless families and individuals throughout the Peninsula and Silicon Valley. InnVision Shelter Network hopes to raise $3,750,000 by Dec. 31 to fund its programs throughout the year.

Caltrain seeks bike advisers Caltrain is accepting applications for its Bicycle Advisory Committee, made up of nine volunteers from the three counties — San Mateo, San Francisco and Santa Clara — served by the rail agency. Applications are due by Dec. 1. Forms are available by calling 508-6279. The committee meets one evening every other month at the Caltrain administrative center at 1250 San Carlos Ave. in San Carlos.

Multimedia Advertising Sales Representative Embarcadero Media is a locally-owned and independent multimedia company based in Palo Alto. We have published in Palo Alto for the last 35 years, with award winning publications such as the Palo Alto Weekly, Mountain View Voice and Menlo Park Almanac on the Peninsula, and the Pleasanton Weekly in the East Bay. In each of these communities our papers are the dominate, best-read and most respected among its various competitors. We also operate extremely popular interactive community news and information websites in all of our cities, plus unique onlineonly operations in Danville and San Ramon. We’re looking for talented and articulate Outside Sales Representatives for our Retail Sales Team. Experience in online, social and print media sales is a plus, but not a requirement. Familiarity with the advertising industry and selling solutions to small and medium size businesses is a big plus. Four year college degree is preferred.

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November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 13

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St. Francis Center provides Story by Sister Christina Heltsley, executive director, St. Francis Q H OLI DAY F U N D Gifts to the Almanac Holiday Fund benefit St. Francis Center.

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roans of protest from a young boy asked to take out the garbage are all too common, but when the motivation for those groans is fear, our adult reactions are notably different. Juve knew that one of his family jobs was to take out the garbage, but after his father was attacked, beaten and robbed in front of him, he was terrified to do that job or even go outside at all. Being inside wasn’t all that pleasant either. The apartment they shared with another family was seriously cramped, roach-

14 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

ridden and dilapidated. Due to high rents and low availability of apartments in San Mateo County, transitioning to another place was all but impossible. When the St. Francis Center purchased another awful building in North Fair Oaks, completely gutted and then rehabilitated it, Juve’s family was thrilled to move in. When Juve described his new apartment, he used the word “safe” at least six times. What 8-year boy does that? Eightyear-olds who have never felt safe in their own homes do! Thank goodness, it is something most of us never have had to think about, especially not as children. The St. Francis Center is mission-driven. One of its goals is to

Give to The Almanac

Holiday Fund safe homes for children Center. Photos by Michelle Le. purchase dilapidated multi-family dwellings, make them beautiful and turn them into dignified very low-income “homes.” We are not interested in “housing” families; we are driven to “home” families. At present, the St. Francis Center owns and operates 46 units of low-income housing. Juve’s family and about 500 other families will also benefit from our other ancillary services. They will be able to access: the food and clothing programs, an immigration councilor, a laundry and shower, two community gardens, an amazing youth center with after-school programming, ESL and GED classes as well as a small elementary school. All of the services and programs

offered at the St. Francis Center are done so with our motto in the forefront of our minds and hearts, “compassion not judgment.” As this article is being written, Juve is out front, riding his bike with his little brother, mother and baby sister; it’s so good to see kids being kids! I imagine that Juve, who still has family chores, continues to groan a bit when his parents ask him to “take out the garbage” — but for very different and way more acceptable reasons. A Go to stfrancisrwc.org for more information on the St. Francis Center, which is located at 151 Buckingham Ave., Redwood City; or call (650) 365-7829.

Top left: Diego keeps eye on Gracie during the dog’s visit to his firstgrade classroom. Far left: Rosaura Garcia solves math problems while being tutored by Azreema Kumar at St. Francis Center. Center: Selby Lane Elementary School students work on homework at the Siena Youth Center in Redwood City, a service of St. Francis Center. Below: St. Francis Center’s organic garden has a tile centerpiece with a picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Your gift helps children and families in need

Contributions to the Holiday Fund go directly to programs that benefit Peninsula residents. Last year, Almanac readers and foundations contributed $152,000 for the 10 agencies that feed the hungry, house the homeless and provide numerous other services to those in need. Contributions to the Holiday Fund will be matched, to the extent possible, by generous community corporations, foundations and individuals, including the Rotary Club of Menlo Park Foundation and the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and the David and Lucile Packard Foundation. No administrative costs will be deducted from the gifts, which are tax-deductible as permitted by law. All donations to the Holiday Fund will be shared equally among the 10 recipient agencies listed on this page.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula

Second Harvest Food Bank

Provides after-school and academic support and activities for 1,750 at-risk K-12 youth at nine locations in Menlo Park and the North Fair Oaks neighborhood of Redwood City. Members attend at least twice a week during the academic year and receive essential tutoring, mentoring, and academic support.

The largest collector and distributor of food on the Peninsula, Second Harvest Food Bank distributed 52 million pounds of food last year. It gathers donations from individuals and businesses and distributes food to more than 250,000 people each month through more than 770 agencies and distribution sites in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.

Ecumenical Hunger Program Provides emergency food, clothing, household essentials, and sometimes financial assistance to families in need, regardless of religious preference, including Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets for more than 2,000 households.†

Project Read Provides free literacy services to adults in the Menlo Park area. Trained volunteers work one-on-one to help adults improve their basic reading, writing and English language skills so they can achieve their goals and function more effectively at home, at work and in the community. Volunteers also help students acquire basic keyboard and computer skills.

Ravenswood Family Health Center Provides primary medical and preventive health care for all ages at its clinics in Belle Haven and East Palo Alto. It also operates a mobile clinic at school sites. Of the more than 17,000 registered patients, most are low-income and uninsured and live in the ethnically diverse East Palo Alto, Belle Haven, and North Fair Oaks areas.

St. Anthony’s Padua Dining Room Serves hundreds of hot meals six days a week to people in need who walk through the doors. Funded entirely by voluntary contributions, St. Anthony’s is the largest dining room for the needy between San Francisco and San Jose. It also offers emergency food and clothing assistance.

InnVision Shelter Network Provides shelter/housing and supportive services across 18 sites in Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Peninsula. Serves thousands of homeless families and individuals annually on their path back to permanent housing and self-sufficiency.

StarVista Serves more than 32,000 people throughout San Mateo County, including children, young people, families with counseling, prevention, early intervention, education, and residential programs. StarVista also provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services including a 24-hour suicide crisis hotline, an alcohol and drug helpline, and a parent support hotline.

St. Francis Center Provides services for families in need with the goal of helping them live in dignity and become self-supporting community members. The center assists 2,400 people each month with such services as low-income housing, food and clothing, shower and laundry, counseling, community garden, and education.

JobTrain Provides training and job placement services for those at risk, including the long-term unemployed, homeless, marginalized youth, returning parolees and those recovering from drug and alcohol abuse.

DONATE ONLINE: siliconvalleycf.org/almanac-holiday-fund The Almanac

Enclosed is a donation of $_______________ Name _________________________________________________________ Business Name _________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________ City/State/Zip __________________________________________________ E-Mail __________________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________________

Holiday Fund 2014

All donors and their gift amounts will be published in The Almanac unless the boxes below are checked.

T I wish to contribute anonymously. T Please withhold the amount of

Far left: Diego is embraced by Sister Christina Heltsley during a visit to his classroom. Center: Sister Christina Heltsley checks out lettuce at the organic garden. Each family has a plot to grow seasonal crops. Left: Selby Lane Elementary School students arrive at the Siena Youth Center in Redwood City.

Credit Card (MC, VISA, or AMEX)

my contribution.

_________________________________________Expires _______/_______

Signature ______________________________________________________ I wish to designate my contribution as follows: (select one)

T In my name as shown above T In the name of business above OR:

T In honor of:

T In memory of:

T As a gift for:

_____________________________________________________________ (Name of person)

On the cover: Patty Arroyo and her 2-year-old daughter Jessica in their apartment.

Please make checks payable to: Silicon Valley Community Foundation Send coupon and check, if applicable, to: The Almanac Holiday Fund c/o Silicon Valley Community Foundation 2440 West El Camino Real, Suite 300 Mountain View, CA 94040 The Almanac Holiday Fund is a donor advised fund of Silicon Valley Community Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) charitable organization. A contribution to this fund allows your donation to be tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 15

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Unlocking stories help adults learn to read, write and find success By Mike Goodkind, Project Read volunteer.

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roject Read-Menlo Park literacy tutors are finding that the personal stories locked inside their students can be sprung loose to become fascinating, valuable tools in the quest for literacy. For the 30th anniversary of the Menlo Park literacy program next year, Program Director Roberta Roth expects Project Read to produce a book of student stories that will inspire, educate, and keep alive the sagas that had hitherto been untold to the community. Project Read students speak more than a dozen native tongues from all over the world but share a common goal of wishing to read and write English. Margarita Joachin, with help from tutor Susan Speicher, recently presented a short self-published book chronicling her journey from El Salvador. The book was a gift for her daughter. Carmen from Latin America recently wrote how she and her husband worked two full-time jobs each for 13 years to buy a house. Tutors, ranging from college students to seniors, are often surprised to hear the stories of hardship followed by triumph told by their students during

Q HOLIDAY FUND Gifts to the Almanac Holiday Fund benefit Project Read-Menlo Park.

tutoring sessions designed to prepare learners for jobs, school or simply logging on to their children’s school website. “Stories are a powerful motivator and catalyst for students, who often have ached to share their journeys and triumphs, and for the tutors who share in these revelations from fascinating, courageous people they otherwise might never have known,” says Ms. Roth. Bernard Clouse agrees, having shared stories and experiences with student Lama Jamp, a Tibetan Monk, who spoke almost no English when he came to the United States to teach at a Buddhist Monastery. The pair continues to meet after Clouse helped Jamp study to become a U.S. citizen. Project Read is always looking for new tutors. While about 90 students are matched with one-on-one tutors, Ms. Roth says there is a need for about 20 more to trim a student waiting list. Other programs offered by Project Read are beginning and intermediate

Photo by Project Read

A longtime Project Read-Menlo Park tutor David Yeo works with students during one of the literacy programs classes at Belle Haven Library.

English classes held at Menlo Park’s Belle Haven Library, and a computer lab available as a resource for all participants. Recent special events included a writing workshop for 18 learners and tutors led by East Palo Alto Poet Laure-

ate Kalamu Chache. For information about volunteering, finding a tutor or donating, contact Ms. Roth at rlroth@menlopark.org or (650) 330-2525; or visit projectreadmenlopark.org.

Holidays are hard when you’re hungry By Kathy Jackson, CEO, Second Harvest Food Bank.

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he holidays are a time when family and friends get together to enjoy good food and celebrate. But for those struggling to make ends meet, the holidays can be a stark reminder of what they don’t have: food. This holiday season, one in 10 people will rely on Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties for groceries. “It’s heartbreaking to think that so many people struggle to put food on the table, particularly during the holidays,” said Kathy Jackson, CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank. “The improved economy has brought rising costs, but few jobs, to the families we serve. People who are still unemployed, underemployed, or living on a fixed income can’t keep up with the skyrocketing cost of living here.” The reality is it takes an annual income of $82,000 for a family of four to pay their bills and put food on the table in this region, but the majority of Second Harvest’s clients make less than $20,000. Hardworking families like Irene’s struggle to make ends meet. She can’t work due to a disability, and the family can’t make it on her husband’s income

Q HOLIDAY FUND Gifts to the Almanac’s Holiday Fund benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties.

alone. They receive fresh produce from Second Harvest, which helps to keep her two daughters healthy and able to perform in school. According to a recent hunger study, the majority of families Second Harvest serves must make difficult choices just so they can eat, including watering down food and drinks, forgoing an education, and selling or pawning personal property. About two-thirds of Second Harvest’s clients purchase cheap, unhealthy foods to make ends meet. They know the food is unhealthy, but it’s what they can afford. That’s why Second Harvest has put so much emphasis on making sure people have access to nutritious food, including fruits and vegetables. More than half the food Second Harvest distributes is fresh produce. In fact, Second Harvest provides more fresh produce than any other food bank in the United States.

16 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

Second Harvest distributes more than 1 million pounds of food every week. Nearly 250,000 people rely on Second Harvest for food every month, and 40 percent are kids. You can help families like Irene’s by giving to Second Harvest Food Bank.

Every dollar you donate provides the equivalent of two nutritious meals. Visit www.SHFB.org or call (866) 2343663 for more information. You can drop off a donation at Second Harvest’s Bing Center at 1051 Bing St. in San Carlos.

Irene says she is so grateful for the help she has received from Second Harvest that she gives back by volunteering.

C O M M U N I T Y Q C A L E N DA R Go to AlmanacNews.com/calendar to see more local calendar listings

Community Events

Breakfast With Santa Pancakes, letter writing, holiday crafts, visits with Santa. Reservations required. Attendees receive $1 off admission if they bring an unwrapped toy to donate. Dec. 6, 7:30-11:30 a.m. $5-$7. Arrillaga Family Recreation Center, 700 Alma St., Menlo Park. Call 330-2220. www.menlopark.org/events Holiday Train in Menlo Park During 20-minute stop in Menlo Park, carolers and Salvation Army brass band perform; Santa and Mrs. Claus visit. Attendees can donate unwrapped toys. Dec. 7, 7:45 p.m. Free. Menlo Park Caltrain Station, Merrill Street and Santa Cruz Avenue, Menlo Park. holiday-train.org West Bay Model Railroad Association open house. Dec. 6, 2-5 p.m.; Dec. 7, 5-9 p.m. Free (donations appreciated). Model Railroad Building, 1090 Merrill St., Menlo Park. wbmrra. ning.com Holiday Centerpiece Workshop Atherton Dames workshop led by event planner Kathleen Deery. Ticket info on website. Register before Dec. 1. Dec. 4, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $100. Private residence. www.athertondames. org/event/holiday-centerpieces/ Lifetree Cafe: ‘Next Generation’ Conversations on how millennial generation (those born between 1980 and 2000) will change world. Dec. 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m.; Dec. 4, 9:15-10:15 a.m. Free. Bethany Lutheran Church, 1095 Cloud Ave., Menlo Park. Call 854-5897. www.facebook.com/LifetreeCafeMP Gingerbread House Decorating Fundraiser Community members decorate preassembled houses with candy and sweets. Tools provided. RSVP, as space is limited. Dec. 6, 9 a.m.-noon. $55 per house. Bethany Lutheran Church, 1095 Cloud Ave., Menlo Park. Call 854-5897. www.bethany-mp.org/ gingerbread Peninsula School Craft Fair Handmade or handcrafted toys, clothing, pottery, jewelry, bath products and gift items. Homemade soups, baked goods and deserts. Children’s area and live music. Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Peninsula School, 920 Peninsula Way, Menlo Park. peninsulaschool.org/craftfair.htm Sacred Heart Prep Holiday Boutique “Vintage Christmas” open to public. Parking on campus. Dec. 3 and 4, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Sacred Heart Prep, Main Building, 150 Valparaiso Ave., Atherton. Call 473-4088.

Authors & Talks

‘Apocalypse Now: Rise of ISIS’ Dan Devitt, history teacher at Menlo School, talks about what ISIS in Middle East is and why it matters. Dec. 2, 12:15-1 p.m. Free. Menlo School, Martin Hall, 50 Valparaiso Ave., Atherton. Call 3302001, ext. 2246. www.menloschool.org Tim Shriver, founder of Special Olympics and nephew to John, Robert and Ted Kennedy, discusses his book, “Fully Alive: Discovering What Matters Most,” a memoir about lessons learned from people with intellectual disabilities, including his aunt, Rosemary. Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. $15. Kepler’s Books, 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. Call 324-4321. www.brownpapertickets.com/event/876197 ‘Freedom On My Mind’ Judge Leonard Edwards introduces documentary that tells story of Mississippi freedom movement in early 1960s, when a handful of young activists (including Edwards) traveled to the South and helped change history. Dec. 2, 6-8 p.m. Free. Menlo School, Martin Hall, 50 Valparaiso Ave., Atherton. Call 330-2001 ext. 2246 . Author Richard Ford on ‘Let Me Be Frank With You,’ his new work, which centers on a familiar figure from his previous works, Frank Bascombe, in aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Mr. Ford will be in conversation with Rachel Smith, a Stegner Fellow at Stanford. Dec. 5, 7:30 p.m. Free. Kepler’s Books, 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. Call 324-4321. www. keplers.com/event/richard-ford

On Stage

‘Never Too Late’ Friends of the Menlo Park Library will present a comedic musical revue called “Never Too Late,” performed by Stagebridge Theatre. The troupe of senior actors will sing songs and perform skits mocking society’s perceptions of old age. Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Free. Menlo Park City Council Chambers, 701 Laurel St., Menlo Park. Call 330-2501. menlopark.org/ Calendar.aspx?EID=632&month=12&year=20 14&day=6&calType=0 ‘Peter and the Starcatcher’ TheatreWorks stages adventure-filled sequel to “Peter Pan.” See website for details. Dec. 3-Jan. 3. $19-

$74. Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Call 463-1950. www.theatreworks.org ‘The Other Place’ Drama by Sharr White, in which renowned neurologist appears to be losing her mind. See website for details. Nov. 21-Dec. 14, Thursday-Saturday, 8 p.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. $30. The Dragon Theatre, 2120 Broadway St., Redwood City. www. dragonproductions.net/activities/2014-season/ theotherplace.html Vertical Dance AirShow! Poletential holds AirShow! dance, which features tricks and movement on aerial fabric, poles, ropes and trapeze. No-host bar; performance starts at 8 p.m. sharp. Attendees must be age 18 or older and RSVP online. Dec. 6, 7:30-11 p.m. $40. Fox Forum, 2411 Broadway St., Redwood City. Call 274-4640. poletential.com/poletential_airshow.html

Community Health Education Programs For a complete list of classes and class fees, lectures and health education resources, visit pamf.org/education.

Art

‘The Path of Beauty’ Exhibit of work by Arthur Poulin, a monk and artist. He gives a lecture at 7 p.m. Dec. 3 called “The Path of Beauty: Spirituality and Creativity.” Nov. 26-Dec. 18, school hours. Free. Woodside Priory School, Founders Hall, 302 Portola Road, Portola Valley. www.prioryca.org Artists open studio in Portola Valley Jan Schachter, Nina Else, Lois Anderson, Peggy Forman and Margaret Realica host open house to show work in pottery, book arts, photography, drawing and garden sculpture. Dec. 6, 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Jan Schachter, 190 Golden Hills Drive, Portola Valley. Call 8513754. www.janschachter.com ‘How Does Your Garden Grow’ Exhibit of watercolor paintings by Barbara von Haunalter. Many pieces are plein air work created in or near Bay Area. Dec. 1-31, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Free. Allied Arts Guild, Portola Art Gallery, 75 Arbor Road, Menlo Park. Call 321-0220. www.portolaartgallery.com Lee Middleman ceramics open studio Textured, decorative functional ware influenced by his trips to Asia. Dec. 6 and 7, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Lee Middleman’s Gallery and Studio, 16 Coalmine View, Portola Valley. Call 851-0535. www.leemiddleman.com

December 2014 Sleep and Wellness: Tips for Improving Sleep Dec. 2, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Michelle Primeau, M.D., PAMF Sleep Medicine The holidays are a busy time of year, and for many people, that means skimping on sleep. Dr. Primeau will explain the importance of sleep, the impact of common sleep disorders, and give tips on what you can do to improve your sleep and enjoy the busy holiday season. Sunnyvale Public Library 665 W. Olive Avenue, Sunnyvale • No registration required

Benefits/Fundraisers

Children’s Holiday Tea Holbrook-Palmer Park Foundation and Atherton Dames hold annual event, including visit with Santa, puppet show, holiday crafts. Treats, tea sandwiches and beverages. Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. $45. Holbrook-Palmer Park, Jennings Pavilion, 150 Watkins Ave., Atherton. www.athertondames.org Until There’s A Cure Holiday Open House Local vendors and products, a raffle, and food and refreshments. Dec. 6, noon-5 p.m. Free admission. Until There’s A Cure Foundation, 560 Mountain Home Road, Woodside. Call 332-3200. www.until.org Nativity School Christmas Tree Lot Volunteer-run lot benefits Nativity School. Tuesday-Sunday, Nov. 28-Dec. 13. See website for hours. Nativity Catholic School, 210 Oak Grove Ave., Menlo Park. Call 275-3750. www.nativitytrees.com

LASIK Vision Correction Procedures Dec. 9, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Yichieh Shiuey, M.D., PAMF Ophthalmology Join PAMF LASIK specialist, Dr. Yichieh Shiuey to learn about the advancements in all-laser LASIK procedures.

Mountain View Center 701 E. El Camino Real, 3rd Fl. Conference Center, Mountain View • (650) 934-7380

Concerts

Peninsula Women’s Chorus performs winter concert, “Portal to the Season.” Dec. 7, 7-9 p.m. $30 adult; $10 student. Valley Presbyterian Church, 945 Portola Road, Portola Valley. www.pwchorus.org Chamber Players and Camerata concert El Camino Youth Symphony concert features two preparatory groups and student soloists. Dec. 7, 1:30 p.m. $8/$15. Performing Arts Center, M-A High School, 555 Middlefield Road, Atherton. www.ecys.org El Camino Youth Symphony concert for two preparatory orchestras: El Camino Wind Orchestra and Galbraith Honor Strings. Dec. 7, 3:15 p.m. $8/$15. Performing Arts Center, M-A High School, 555 Middlefield Road, Atherton. www.ecys.org

January 2015 Dementia Caregiver Education Series Financial Planning Tips Jan. 15, 1 – 2:30 p.m. Tom Bromm, Financial Consultant Sunnyvale Center 301 Old San Francisco Road, 2nd Fl. Conference Center, Sunnyvale • (408) 730-2810

Kids & Families

History Museum. At 11 a.m., preschool children learn about horses and their use historically for transportation. They will make horse puppets to take home. At 2 p.m., docents lead museum tour for adults. Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. San Mateo County History Museum, 2200 Broadway St., Redwood City. www. historysmc.org Holiday Traditions from Around the World Children’s craft activities, such as making old-fashioned Christmas tree ornaments. San Francisco State University Handbell Choir performs at 1 p.m. Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. San Mateo County History Museum, 2200 Broadway St., Redwood City. www. historysmc.org

Dr. Marvin Small Memorial Parent Workshop Series Bye-Bye Diapers: Toilet Training Jan. 20, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Heidi Emberling, Parents Place Sunnyvale Center 301 Old San Francisco Road, 2nd Fl. Conference Center, Sunnyvale • (408) 730-2810

November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 17

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Holiday

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Concerts and gatherings to make spirits bright by Elizabeth Schwyzer

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s temperatures drop, the days grow shorter and the nights longer, it’s harder to rely on sunshine for warmth and light. Instead, it’s the time of year for drawing together to generate our own brilliance. There’s no better way to celebrate the season than by gathering to enjoy live music, dance and theater: our most radiant expressions of what it means to be human. This holiday season, Midpeninsula communities offer up a bounty of performing-arts events to warm hearts and make spirits bright. Read on for some of the best and most beloved shows on

the calendar, and get ready for some joyous celebrations. 3DFLILF %DOOHW $FDGHP\·V ¶1XWFUDFNHU·

Now in its 24th year, the Pacific Ballet Academy’s “Nutcracker” is an annual holiday favorite. Students of all ages and levels rehearse for months to prepare for the performance. The huge cast this year features special guests Tom Means and John Inks — both former mayors of Mountain View — as well as professional soloists. :KHUH Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St. :KHQ Friday, Nov. 28-Saturday, Nov. 29, at 1 and 6 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 30, at 12:30

and 4 p.m. &RVW $26-$30 ,QIR Go to mvcpa.com or call 650-903-6000.

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Billed as a “whimsical, swashbuckling prequel to Peter Pan,” this musical production is based on the best-selling novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson. On the high seas, the young heroes and heroines encounter pirates, shipwrecks, mermaids and magic. You might even find out how Peter Pan learned to fly. :KHUH Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto :KHQ Wednesday, Dec. 3-Saturday,

Curtis Finger

The Ragazzi Boys Chorus’ “Wintersong” performance will include “Alleluia” and a traditional carol sing-along.

2014 Holiday Festivities at the Stanford Park Hotel and Menlo Grill Bistro & Bar Christmas Dining

Teddy Bear Tea

Thursday, December 25 • 11am to 8pm $55 - Adults, $25 - Children (10 and under) Reservations Required

December 7 and 14 • 1pm to 3pm $45 - Adults, $25 - Children (2 - 10), under 2 free • Reservations Required Join us for an enchanted afternoon with pianist and storyteller, Liz Bongiorno. Guests enjoy tea, hot chocolate, finger sandwiches, holiday sweets and more. Children are encouraged to bring their favorite teddy bear along to share in the fun. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital.

Afternoon Holiday Tea Tuesdays and Thursdays, December 2-23 2pm to 4pm • $30 per person Reservations Required Enjoy the time-honored tradition of teatime at the Menlo Grill Bistro & Bar. This special tea service includes a delectable assortment of finger sandwiches, holiday sweets and teas.

Gift Cards Gift cards are also available in any denomination and will make a perfect stocking stuffer!

For reservations or information, please phone 650-330-2794 www.stanfordparkhotel.com www.menlogrill.com

Office Holiday Events We can help you create innovative parties that are fun and cost-effective for your group’s holiday celebrations.

Home for the Holidays Let us pamper you or your in-town guests this holiday season in a luxurious guestroom. 18 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

100 el camino real, menlo park

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Jan. 3; Tuesdays and Wednesdays, at 7:30 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays, at 8 p.m., Saturdays, at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sundays, at 2 and 7 p.m., with a special holiday schedule Dec. 22-28. Cost: $19-$74 Info: Go to theatreworks.org or call 650-463-1960.

and tutus, then lets down its hair with a post-intermission collection of fresh, playful works that capture the holiday spirit. Where: Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St. When: Wednesday, Dec. 10-Sunday, Dec. 14; Wednesday-Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. Cost: $23-$71 Info: Go to mvcpa.com or call 650-903-6000.

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Under the artistic direction of former San Francisco Ballet soloist Alexi Zubiria, Western Ballet offers up a classical rendition of this Christmas favorite. Rumor has it the youngest audience members will spend intermission doing their best Sugar Plum Fairy impressions in the lobby. Each performance is followed by a sweet tea reception.

Myles Boisen

Kitka, a women’s vocal ensemble, brings folkloric music of various ethnic and spiritual traditions to St. Bede’s Episcopal Church.

to interact with Art Center artists-in-residence as they prepare for their January exhibition.

Where: Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St. When: Friday, Dec. 5, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 6, at 1 and 7 p.m. Cost: $25-$30 Info: Go to mvcpa.com or call 650-903-6000.

Where: Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Road When: Sunday, Dec. 7, 2-4 p.m. Cost: Free Info: Go to tinyurl.com/lh7vo4x or call 650-329-2366.

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Founded in 1966, this 50-voice female choir has toured internationally and brought challenging choral music to area audiences for nearly half a century. Their “Portal to the Season” features the hauntingly beautiful “Nigra Sum” by Catalan composer Pablo Casals and the tightly woven harmonies of Joshua Himes’ “There is no Rose.” A sing-along follows the Dec. 13 performance.

From Edward Elgar’s “The Snow” to Disney’s “Frozen,” the Ragazzi Boys Chorus brings songs old and new to this vocal celebration of winter. The family-friendly concert features more than 100 boys and young men age 7 to 18. “Wintersong” opens with a meditative rendition of “Alleluia” and closes with a rousing sing-along of traditional Christmas carols including “Silent Night” and “Away in a Manger.”

Where: Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church, 600 Colorado Ave., Palo Alto, and Valley Presbyterian Church, 945 Portola Road, Portola Valley When: Saturdays, Dec. 6 and 13, at 2:30 p.m. in Palo Alto; Sunday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m. in Portola Valley Cost: $10-$30 Info: Go to pwchorus.org.

Where: Messiah Lutheran Church, 1835 Valota Road, Redwood City When: Sunday, Dec. 7, at 5 p.m. Cost: $10-$30 Info: Go to ragazzi.org or call 650-342-8785.

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What is a latke, and why is it screaming? These questions and many more will be 6FKROD &DQWRUXP·V ¶-R\HX[ 1|HO· DQG 0HVVLDK 6LQJ $ORQJ answered in this world preFrancophiles will flock to this miere production, based on classical choir’s French twist on the beloved children’s book the holidays. Schola Cantorum’s by Lemony Snicket. The show “Joyeux Nöel” features Marc- stars Pacific Youth Theatre’s Antoine Charpentier’s “Mid- teen actors, who will stay after night Mass for Christmas,” as the performance for an audiwell as popular carols with a ence talk-back. French flavor. The choir of 90 Where: Mountain View Center for the voices will be accompanied by Performing Arts, 500 Castro St. a live orchestra: the Sinfonia When: Friday, Dec. 12, at 9:30 and 11 Schola Cantorum. One week a.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 13, at later, the group will present its 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Cost: $10-$12 annual Messiah Sing-Along. Where: Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St. When: Joyeux Nöel: Sunday, Dec. 7, at 3 p.m.; Messiah Sing-Along: Monday, Dec. 15, at 7:30 p.m. Cost: $18-$30 Info: Go to mvcpa.com or call 650-903-6000.

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Whether you like your ballet classical or contemporary, Smuin’s “Uncorked” promises to please every palette. The show begins with traditional toe shoes

Info: Go to mvcpa.com or call 650-903-6000.

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Dance Connection Palo Alto, along with the studio’s youth ensemble, presents its 16th annual “Nutcracker.” Ballet dancers age 7 and up audition to take part in the holiday production, which will have four performances danced by two separate casts. This year, Kennedy Herron and Kim Li share the role of Clara, with Julian

Moran and Josh Wilson as the Nutcracker Prince. Where: Spangenberg Theatre, Gunn High School, 780 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto When: Friday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 13, at 2 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. Cost: $15-$27 Info: Go to tickets.shovation.com.

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Palo Alto’s oldest music store, Gryphon Stringed Instruments, holds its 32nd annual holiday concert, featuring the Gryphon Carolers and Gryphon All-Star band. This ain’t the place for traditional carols only; they’ll be singing and playing holiday tunes that hail from Ireland to Brazil, and plenty of places in between. Where: Canada College Theater, 4200 Farm Hill Blvd., Redwood City When: Saturday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m. Cost: $10-$25 Info: Go to gryphoncarollers.com or call 650-493-2131. Tickets also available at the door.

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The Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra, along with Pacific Ballet Theatre, presents a concert of favorite holiday music, including excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker” and Handel’s “Messiah,” featuring soprano soloist Shawnette Sulker. The show also includes guitarist Yuri Liberzon playing Beatles tunes and members of PACO’s youth ensemble, the SuperStrings Orchestra.

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For those who can’t get enough of the Women’s Chorus, there’s another chance to catch them at this free event on the Stanford campus. Now in its third year, “Sing and Play the Bing” celebrates the cultural diversity of the Silicon Valley. The 2014 lineup showcases the choir alongside San Jose’s Chinese Performing Arts of America and members of Tezkatlipoka Aztec Dance and Drum. Where: Bing Concert Hall, 327 Lasuen St., Stanford When: Saturday, Dec. 6, at 7:30 p.m. Cost: Free; tickets available at the door Info: Go to live.stanford.edu or call 650-724-2464.

THE PET PLACE

2014

“Not a chain... just one special store”

For the 22nd Consecutive Year

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Children age 5 and up, along with their families, are invited to this afternoon of holiday-themed art-making and creative activities. Participants young and not so young will also have a chance

See HOLIDAY CHEER, page 20

“...While visions of The Pet Place danced in their heads...” Winner of Golden Acorn Award For Business of the Year, Professional Excellence and Community Service

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U.S. Retailer of the year

November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 19

H A P P Y

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continued from page 19 Where: Cubberley Theatre, Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto When: Sunday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. Cost: Free, tickets available at the door Info: Go to pacomusic.org.

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Kitka, the critically acclaimed women’s vocal ensemble based in Oakland, comes to the Peninsula following an East Coast tour of “Wintersong,� a program of seasonal music from Eastern

Europe. The group brings folkloric music of various ethnic and spiritual traditions, and presents songs in both ancient polyphonic styles and innovative new arrangements. Where: St. Bede’s Episcopal Church, 2650 Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park When: Sunday, Dec. 14, at 4 p.m. Cost: $10-$35 Info: Go to kitka.org or call 510-444-0323.

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If you like to raise your voice in joyous song, you’ll want to

Frames, Gifts, Calendars, Cards, Toys & More... Create Your Holiday

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Fine Crafts X HOLIDAY FAIR X Local Artists December 5, 6, 7, 2014 Friday, Saturday & Sunday 10-5 Hoover House (aka “The Girl Scout House�) 1120 Hopkins, Palo Alto for information 650-625-1736 or TheArtifactory@aol.com

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^^^ ZITĂ„[ JVT c J\Z[VTLYZLY]PJL'ZITĂ„[ULZZ JVT ,S *HTPUV 9LHS 4LUSV 7HYR *( 20 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

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In their first-ever collaboration, San Francisco’s New Century Chamber Orchestra and the city’s Girls Chorus present a concert of classical music and traditional carols. Among the works on their program are “Winter� from Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons,� John Rutter’s “Nativity Carol� and Arcangelo Corelli’s Concerto Grosso in G minor, known as the “Christmas Concerto.� Where: First United Methodist Church, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto When: Friday, Dec. 19, at 8 p.m. Cost: $15-$61 Info: Go to ncco.org or call 415-392-4400.

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The San Francisco Early Music Society presents Magnificat Baroque Ensemble in a performance of Francesco Cavalli’s grand and celebratory “Missa concertata,� along with Gregorian chant, sacred motets and instrumental works. The performance of 17th-century music incorporates dramatic gestures and passages of “secco recitative�: a style of delivery from early Italian opera.

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BOOT CAMP- Strength & Weight Loss Tuesday & Thursday 5:30 am-6:15am $35/Session

BURN & BUILD - Strength & Weight Loss Tuesday 6:30pm-7:15pm $35/Session

Where: Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St. When: Friday, Dec. 19, at 7:30 p.m. Cost: $28-$36 Info: Go to mvcpa.com or call 650-903-6000.

Where: Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church, 600 Colorado Ave., Palo Alto When: Friday, Dec. 19, at 8 p.m. Cost: $30-$35 Info: Go to sfems.org or call 510-528-1725.

End of Year Special

SURFSET - Balance & Strength Monday & Thursday 5:00 pm-6:00pm $40/Session

join the exuberant crowd at this holiday gospel music concert. Under the direction of Terrance Kelly, the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir is a multiracial, multicultural group of singers whose joy in their art form won’t be contained. Audience participation is encouraged.

We teach piano, and we love it! We work one-on-one with our students to create individual learning plans that are easy, fun, and rewarding

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Mountain View’s Bayer Ballet Academy takes a leap away from Nutcracker tradition to tell a different wintertime story: Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Snow Queen.� When the queen casts a spell on a young boy, his friend sets out to save him, encountering robbers, crows and dancing icicles along the way. Bayer Ballet students age 3 to pre-professional are trained in the Vaganova method of Russian ballet. Where: Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St. When: Saturday, Dec. 20, at 5:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 21, at 2:30 p.m. Cost: $30-$40 Info: Go to mvcpa.com or call 650-903-6000.

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Photo coutesy of Suzi Tinsley

Sugar Shack owner Suzi Tinsley prepares to close her Santa Cruz Avenue store at the end of December.

1 150 Chestnu ut St 1150 Chestnut St. M enlo Park, CA CA 9 Menlo 94025

Menlo Park’s Sugar Shack bids farewell to downtown By Sandy Brundage Almanac Staff Writer

T

he memories are sweet, but Sugar Shack proprietor Suzi Tinsley is closing the door of Menlo Park’s downtown candy store at the end of December. The store opened at 816 Santa Cruz Ave. in 2007. After endless hours of finding unique treats and creating more than 1,500 custom Easter baskets, Ms. Tinsley said it’s time to spend more time with her seven children and husband. She’s witnessed everything from grandparents visiting with children to a proposal at the store. “My favorite Sugar Shack story was when two young boys came into the store just before closing on the day before Mother’s Day,� she said. “They had $5 to spend on something fabulous for their sweet mom, so I whipped up a $45 basket and they said, ‘This must be more than $5.’ I told them it was only $2 over their budget and that I hoped their mom appreciated the great

chocolates and their efforts.� The next day, Ms. Tinsley arrived at work to find two $1 bills taped to the front door with a note that read, “’You are the best candy lady everrr’,� she said. “I still have that note, and those boys are now in high school.� Sixty-five percent of her business has been event-based — most recently, the Sugar Shack provided candy for 975 bike riders participating in the Canary Challenge. Ms. Tinsley said she, as well as her candy, will still be available for other events, including proms and bar mitzvahs. Ms. Tinsley thanked the community for all of its support. “I grew up in the area, I live in Menlo Park now, and will always be active in this vibrant community,� she said. “I love my customers, my staff and all the kids who have visited the Shack. I cannot thank them enough for making the Sugar Shack such a sweet downtown spot.� Anyone wishing to speak to her about events after the store closes will still be able to reach her at 325-0800. A

Q P O LI C E C A LL S This information is based on reports from the Menlo Park Police Department. Under the law, people charged with offenses are considered innocent unless convicted. Police received the reports on the dates shown. MENLO PARK Residential burglary: A thief pried open a rear window of a house in the 1000 block of University Drive and stole jewelry from an unlocked safe. Estimated loss: $10,000. Nov. 17. Thefts: Q The owner of a backpack left at Rubio’s Fresh Mexican Grill on El Camino Real came back to the restaurant to retrieve it and found some of its contents missing. No estimate of loss. Nov. 18.

minal Avenue by unknown means and stole a video game console. Estimated loss: $600. Nov. 18. Q An unlocked bike was stolen from the porch of an apartment in the 1300 block of Willow Road. Estimated loss: $300. Nov. 18. Stolen vehicle: A silver 2001 Honda CRV was stolen from an apartment parking lot on Sharon Park Court. Nov. 16. Fraud: Q An accountant working for a resident of Lemon Street discovered that a personal check the resident had written in 2009 for $2,400 had been altered to $3,400. An investigation is underway. Nov. 18.

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TOWN OF WOODSIDE 2955 WOODSIDE ROAD WOODSIDE, CA 94062 PLANNING COMMISSION December 3, 2014 6:00 PM PUBLIC HEARING 2. Draft Update to the Housing Element and Associated Negative Declaration Planner: Jackie Young, Planning Director Review of a draft update to the Housing Element and the associated Negative Declaration for recommendation to the Town Council. State law requires an update to the Housing Element every eight years. The new Housing Element cycle is 2015-2022, which updates the existing 2007-2014 Housing Element. 3.

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YOUR 24/7 HOME CARE SPECIALIST

Draft Multi-Family Residential Overlay Zone at CaĂąada College 4200 Farm Hill Road Planner: Jackie Young, Planning Director

Review of a zoning code amendment to establish a multi-family overlay zone at Caùada College. The proposed development standards duplicate those used to construct the existing multi-family faculty housing on campus. This amendment would implement Policy H1.4.d from Woodside’s existing 2007-2014 Housing Element. Consideration of this DPHQGPHQW GRHV QRW LQFOXGH DQ\ VSHFLÀF SURMHFW SURSRVDO All application materials are available for public review at the Woodside Planning and Building Counter, Woodside Town Hall, weekdays from 8:00 – 10:00 AM and 1:00 – 3:00 PM, or by appointment. For more information, contact the Woodside Planning and Building Department at (650) 851-6790. November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 21

Serving Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley, and Woodside for 49 years.

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NEWSROOM Editor Richard Hine (223-6525) Associate Editor Renee Batti (223-6528) Lifestyles Editor Jane Knoerle Staff Writers Dave Boyce (223-6527), Sandy Brundage (223-6529), Barbara Wood (223-6533) Contributors Marjorie Mader, Kate Daly Special Sections Editor Carol Blitzer (223-6511) Photographer Michelle Le (223-6530) DESIGN & PRODUCTION Marketing and Creative Director Shannon Corey (223-6560) Design and Production Manager Lili Cao (223-6562) Designers Linda Atilano, Colleen Hench, Rosanna Leung, Paul Llewellyn ADVERTISING Vice President Sales and Marketing Tom Zahiralis (223-6570) Real Estate Manager Neal Fine (223-6583) Real Estate & Advertising Coordinator Diane Martin (223-6584) Legal Advertising Alicia Santillan (223-6578) ADVERTISING SERVICES Advertising Services Manager Jennifer Lindberg (223-6595) Sales & Production Coordinators Dorothy Hassett (223-6597), Blanca Yoc (223-6596) Published every Wednesday at 3525 Alameda De Las Pulgas, Menlo Park, CA 94025 Newsroom: (650) 223-6525 Newsroom Fax: (650) 223-7525 Advertising: (650) 854-2626 Advertising Fax: (650) 223-7570 Email news and photos with captions to: Editor@AlmanacNews.com Email letters to: letters@AlmanacNews.com

Searsville Dam should go L

HEW (1963-1969), and among other things brought in Medicare. ast night I had the opportunity to check out the important Because of LBJ’s embrace of the Vietnam War, John advised him new documentary film “Dam Nation,” which has already won not to run again. That took imperial-sized balls to confront the honors at first-rank film festivals nationwide. It is a precise president. John founded Common Cause and The Independent retelling of the history of American dam building, which reached Sector. His books “Excellence, Leadership” and, his last, “Living a fever pitch in the early 1920s. Thousands were built all over Leading and the American Dream,” are classics of immense vision America. It seems that no river or creek was exempt. The thirst for and wisdom. I had the wonderful chance to introduce John at his last public power jaded any consideration of unintentional consequences into lecture at Stanford, predictably called “Self-Renewal,” a the future, which number many, but the worst offense favorite topic. I observed, “If we could but turn the clock to me is the desecration of some of our most precious back, say to the Golden Age of Greece, or to the Enlightenecosystems, particularly for the fish whose existence in ment, or to the Founding Fathers of our nation and inject a healthy stream and river bed is essential. John into their midst he would become just then as he is to This grim development of thousands of dams, most us today, the noblest citizen.” Well said. of which originally were well-intended but are now Shortly before John died in 2002 of prostate cancer, I had mostly derelict remnants, has resulted in the havoc that the immense privilege of introducing Chuck Feeney to him. has cost the lives of billions of fish who were thirsty for Chuck is the anonymous billionaire who made his fortune GUEST living space. This issue was important but remote to me until last OPINION in the Duty Free shops with the direct intent of giving it all away while still alive. In this pursuit he recruited Bufnight, when my neighborhood gathered to view the fet, Gates, et al in the Giving While Living effort. Stanford release of this wonderful film. Right there, hidden but has received much from Chuck. John and Chuck shared idealisms central to our neighborhood, is the Searsville Dam, built in 1892 for much of the afternoon in John’s campus home. Chuck was so simply to abet the water supply of San Francisco, 30 miles to the taken by the encounter that he directed his foundation, the Atlannorth. Not surprisingly, such intention was never fulfilled. It was subsequently acquired by Stanford. This dam, which sits astride tic Philanthropies, to produce an excellent PBS documentary on the San Francisquito Creek, has languished into disrepair. Its John, the “Uncommon Man.” I often reflect on what John would have to say about X,Y or Z. only present usage is to supply water for the Stanford University golf course. Meanwhile untold millions of migratory salmon are What would John Gardner say about Stanford’s dereliction in obstructed from their original habitat. Their existence is held preserving this decrepit relic so that it can water its golf course? I am certain that John, like thousands of others, would cringe in hostage to the caprice of Stanford. Stanford University is my home church and to millions of embarrassment. Stanford, please deserve your exalted reputation in society, and alumni, faculty, and other neighbors and friends. All of us are immensely proud of its grandeur. One of its most esteemed mem- tear down the dam. Dr. Walter Bortz is a clinical professor of medicine at Stanbers was John Gardner, who is still listed in its pantheon. John ford University School of Medicine, an author, and a longtime delivered the commencement address at the 100th graduation. Portola Valley resident. He also blogs for the Huffington Post, Stanford accorded him its highest distinction, that of the Uncomwhere this column first appeared. mon Man. John served in Lyndon Johnson’s cabinet as secretary of By Walter Bortz

The Almanac, established in October 1965, is delivered each week to residents of Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley and Woodside and adjacent unincorporated areas of southern San Mateo County. The Almanac is qualified by decree of the Superior Court of San Mateo County to publish public notices of a governmental and legal nature, as stated in Decree No. 147530, issued December 21, 1969. ©2014 by Embarcadero Media. All rights reserved. Subscriptions are $60 for one year and $100 for two years. Go to AlmanacNews.com/circulation.

Looking back The Searsville Dam reservoir has severely silted in since this photo was taken in about 1891, the year Stanford University opened, according to Nancy Lund and Pamela Gullard in their history of Portola Valley, “Life on the San Andreas Fault.” The dam was the result of the Spring Valley Water Works’ plan to provide San Francisco with water from the creeks on the western side of the county, according to the historians. But after the dam was built, that plan was abandoned and the portion of the reservoir’s water supplied to Stanford “was too clouded and foul tasting to be used for anything but watering lawns on campus,” they wrote.

Q WHAT’S YOUR VIEW? All letters must include a home address and contact phone number. Published letters will also appear on the web site, www.TheAlmanacOnline.com, and occasionally on the Town Square forum.

Town Square forum Post your views on the Town Square forum at AlmanacNews.com Email your views to: letters@almanacnews.com and note this it is a letter to the editor in the subject line. Mail

or deliver to: Editor, The Almanac 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas Menlo Park, CA 94025

Call

the Viewpoint desk at 223-6528.

22 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

Portola Valley Archives

Bay Area Collection pacificunion.com | A Member of Real Living

BREATHTAKING VIEWS

OPEN SUN 1 - 4

310 Vista Verde Way, Portola Valley $1,399,000

3653 Jefferson Avenue, Redwood City $1,125,000

9+ Acre lot in beautiful Vista Verde section of Portola Valley. Portola Valley Schools and flexible San Mateo County building codes.

Executive living. Country feel. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, plus office or third bedroom. Sweeping ceilings, remodeled kitchen and wall of windows in living room. Private yard and open spce. Roy Cloud schools.

James Horn & Tamara Turner, 650 285-DEAL

Jenny Pollock, 650.867.0609 Deanna Tarr, 415.999.1232

PENDING

PENDING

1671 Stone Pine Lane, Menlo Park $1,125,000

250 Ringwood Avenue, Menlo Park $1,998,000

Located on the Atherton border, this one-of-a-kind residence offers the charm of Provence, with French doors to front and rear balconies, window boxes and architecturally appealing arched windows and doorways. The Park Forest enclave of unique attached homes cannot be duplicated today. It is an oasis on the San Francisco Peninsula yet conveniently located to downtown Menlo Park’s distinctive shops and restaurants. The thoughtfully updated home offers sophistication, drama, and a grand sense of space which is ideal for both large and small group entertaining.

Four bedrooms, including spacious master suite and convenient first floor bedroom / bath. 3 full baths. Big living room with distinctive round window over the fireplace. “Martha Stewart” dining room. Open kitchen “great room” with easy garden access. Attached two car garage. Acclaimed Menlo Park schools. Convenient proximity to downtown Menlo Park / downtown Palo Alto / Burgess Community Center / commute corridor access. Elyse Barca 650.743.0734

Elyse Barca 650.743.0734 November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 23

MARA AND SAMIRA

OP EN SAT /SU N2 -4p m

EXCEPTIONAL MENLO PARK HOME www.1325Hobart.com

MENLO PARK • PRICE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Featuring four bedrooms, three full baths plus a powder room, and situated among stately trees with pristinely landscaped grounds, this newly top-to-bottom remodeled Menlo Park home represents sleek, sophisticated, modern design. Both subtle and dramatic, the brilliant white exterior creates a proud and compelling façade.

LD SO

MODERN TRANSITIONAL ESTATE www.33EmilieAve.com

ATHERTON • PRICE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Extraordinarily impressive new construction by OpenView Homes. Modern, sleek sophisticated finishes and a floor plan that caters to family comfort, privacy & functionality. Indoor outdoor flow and copious patio space creates the quintessential California lifestyle and makes hosting events effortless.

Mara McCain

Samira Amid-Hozour

650.307.8477 mobile

650.868.1577 mobile

BRE# 01077121

BRE# 01445386

www.maraandsamira.com ) maraandsamira@apr.com

24 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

Happy Thanksgiving! As we enter this season of abundance, we wish you a time filled with friends and loved ones as you reflect upon this year’s prosperity. DeLeon Realty

650.543.8500 | www.deleonrealty.com | CalBRE #01903224

November 26, 2014 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 25

Marketplace PLACE AN AD ONLINE fogster.com E-MAIL ads@fogster.com PHONE 650.326.8216 Now you can log on to fogster.com, day or night and get your ad started immediately online. Most listings are free and include a one-line free print ad in our Peninsula newspapers with the option of photos and additional lines. Exempt are employment ads, which include a web listing charge. Home Services and Mind & Body Services require contact with a Customer Sales Representative.

245 Miscellaneous

425 Health Services

115 Announcements

DirecTV! Act Now- $19.99/mo. Free 3-Months of HBO, Starz, SHOWTIME & CINEMAX FREE GENIE HD/DVR Upgrade! 2014 NFL Sunday Ticket included with Select Packages. New Customers Only. IV Support Holdings LLC- An authorized DirecTV Dealer. Call 1-800-259-5140. (Cal-SCAN)

Aloe Vera of America ATTENTION: ALOE VERA OF AMERICA Customers! If you Have Used FOREVER LIVING Dietary Supplement Products Please Call Environmental Research Center Now for Information. www.ERC501C3.org CALL 619-500-3090 NOW! (Cal-SCAN)

Pregnant? Considering adoption? Call us first. Living expenses, housing, medical, and continued support afterwards. Choose adoptive family of your choice. Call 24/7. 1-877-879-4709 (CalSCAN)

DISH TV Retailer Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) & High Speed Internet starting at $14.95/ month (where available.) SAVE! Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 1-800-357-0810. (Cal-SCAN)

Bulletin Board

Pregnant? Thinking of adoption? Talk with caring agency specializing in matching Birthmothers with Families Nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby’s One True Gift Adoptions. 866-413-6293. Void in Illinois/New Mexico/Indiana (AAN CAN)

155 Pets

LOST DOG AT TOWN AND COUNTRY 11/3, 1215pm, my dog fled from my car and was said to run towards the Stanford stadium. I have not heard ANYTHING about where he is and am afraid someone has picked him up without turning him in. He is a ridgeback mix and is 65 lbs, (see picture) He’s non aggressive and can be timid. Microchipped (4B7D5C4276)/ no collar. $500.00 reward. PLEASE help get my dog back

Craft Fair Dance Expressions (2yrs - Teen) Dance Expressions HolidaySpecial Glass and Decorative Arts Club Hilarious revue: Never Too Late! Montclair Women’s Big Band Live! new Holiday music

For Sale

substitute pianist available

Hummer 2004 H1 - $15000

So, the next time you have an item to sell, barter, give away or buy, get the perfect combination: print ads in your local newspapers, reaching more than 150,000 readers, and unlimited free web postings reaching hundreds of thousands additional people!!

USED BOOKSHOP AT MITCHELL PARK

Jeep 2007 Grand Cherokee - $3700

120 Auctions

Mazda 1993 RX7 - $2000

INDEX

Airbrush Makeup Artist course for Ads . TV . Film . Fashion. 35% OFF TUITION - SPECIAL $1990 - Train & Build Portfolio . One Week Course Details at: AwardMakeupSchool.com 818-980-2119 (AAN CAN)

100-199 Q FOR SALE 200-299 Q KIDS STUFF 330-399 Q MIND & BODY 400-499 Q J OBS 500-599 Q B USINESS SERVICES 600-699 Q H OME SERVICES 700-799 Q FOR RENT/ FOR SALE REAL ESTATE 800-899 Q P UBLIC/LEGAL NOTICES 995-997 The publisher waives any and all claims or consequential damages due to errors. Embarcadero Media cannot assume responsibility for the claims or performance of its advertisers. Embarcadero Media has the right to refuse, edit or reclassify any ad solely at its discretion without prior notice.

Combining the reach of the Web with print ads reaching over 150,000 readers!

an opportunity for your ad to appear in the Palo Alto Weekly, The Almanac and the Mountain View Voice.

201 Autos/Trucks/ Parts

BOARD

THE PENINSULA’S FREE CLASSIFIEDS WEBSITE

fogster.com is a unique website offering FREE postings from communities throughout the Bay Area and

Stanford music tutoring

Q BULLETIN

fogster.com

original ringtones

Did You Know Newspaper-generated content is so valuable it’s taken and repeated, condensed, broadcast, tweeted, discussed, posted, copied, edited, and emailed countless times throughout the day by others? Discover the Power of Newspaper Advertising. For a free brochure call 916-288-6011 or email cecelia@cnpa.com (Cal-SCAN)

130 Classes & Instruction

Subaru 2002 L.L. Bean 3.0 Outback Great condition 199,000 miles runs great...650-387-8806

202 Vehicles Wanted

German Language Classes Instruction for Hebrew Bar and Bat Mitzvah. For Affiliated and Unaffiliated. George Rubin, M.A. in Hebrew/Jewish Education 650/424-1940

Donate Your Car, Truck, Boat to HERITAGE FOR THE BLIND. FREE 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care of. 800-731-5042 (Cal-SCAN)

133 Music Lessons

215 Collectibles & Antiques

Hope Street Music Studios In downtown Mtn.View. Most Instruments voice. All ages & levels 650-961-2192 www.HopeStreetMusicStudios.com Piano lessons in Menlo Park

135 Group Activities Thanks St Jude

Green Glass Dishes from the 50’s - 100.

237 Barter Did You Know that not only does newspaper media reach a HUGE Audience, they also reach an ENGAGED AUDIENCE. Discover the Power of Newspaper Advertising. For a free brochure call 916-288-6011 or email cecelia@cnpa.com (Cal-SCAN)

Found Orange Cat near Gunn High

240 Furnishings/ Household items

Lost bracelet Lost downtown in palo alto Diamond/ crystal gold and black bracelet- family gift- 650/867/4488

Oak Firewood for Sale Cut, split and seasoned - $250/cord Call (650)533-7997 for purchase information (cash and pick-up only)

140 Lost & Found

150 Volunteers Become a Nature Volunteer! Fosterers Needed for Moffet Cats

IF

YOU DON’T NEED IT, SELL IT IN THE ALMANAC MARKETPLACE

Kid’s Stuff 330 Child Care Offered Bright Start Child Care!!! Child Care Available in exchange for room in PA and surrounding. Degree in ECE. Willing to work weekends. Will purchase own food. CDL, refs. 650/799-1543

340 Child Care Wanted

Cash for Cars Any Car/Truck. Running or Not! Top Dollar Paid. We Come To You! Call For Instant Offer: 1-888-420-3808 www.cash4car.com (AAN CAN)

Christina Conti Private Piano Instruction (650) 493-6950

Dog Training Books in Paperback, Digital and Audio. Over 100 Breeds, Cats, Horses Too! In English and Spanish! Google or Search Vince Stead or www.Fun2ReadBooks.com (Cal-SCAN)

Screen Door - $60

Nanny/Babysitter Am looking for a good Nanny/ Babysitter, its important you include resuming when responding. kindly state the days you will be available to babysit. Applicant who do not send a resume will not be considered for the position. $20/hr email : PatrickMark10@hotmail.com

355 Items for Sale Did You Know 7 IN 10 Americans or 158 million U.S. Adults read content from newspaper media each week? Discover the Power of Newspaper Advertising. For a free brochure call 916-288-6011 or email cecelia@cnpa.com (Cal-SCAN)

Mind & Body 403 Acupuncture

Treatments for Alzheimers Acupuncturist Jay Wang PhD, specialized in chronical illness for seniors. Call 650-485-3293 for a free consultation. 747 Altos Oaks Dr., Los Altos

Twin Bed Furniture

CLASSIFIED DEADLINES: FOR THE ALMANAC Classified Word Ads Friday by Noon Classified Display Ads Thursday by 5 p.m. for Space Reservation. Friday by Noon for Copy.

415 Classes Did You Know 144 million U.S. Adults read a Newspaper print copy each week? Discover the Power of Newspaper Advertising. For a free brochure call 916-288-6011 or email cecelia@cnpa.com (Cal-SCAN) Mixed-Level Belly Dance Classes

ARDYSS Dietary Supplement ATTENTION: ARDYSS INTERNATIONAL Customers! If you Have Used ARDYSS Dietary Supplement Products Please Call Environmental Research Center Now for Information. www.ERC501C3.org CALL 619-500-3090 NOW! (Cal-SCAN) HealthForce Dietary Supplement ATTENTION: HEALTHFORCE NUTRITIONAL Customers! If you Have Used HEALTHFORCE Dietary Supplement Products Please Call Environmental Research Center Now for Information. www.ERC501C3.org CALL 619-500-3090 NOW! (Cal-SCAN) Safe Step Walk-in Tub Alert for Seniors. Bathroom falls can be fatal. Approved by Arthritis Foundation. Therapeutic Jets. Less Than 4 Inch StepIn. Wide Door. Anti-Slip Floors. American Made. Installation Included. Call 800-799-4811 for $750 Off. (Cal-SCAN) Struggling with Drugs or alcohol? Addicted to pills? Talk to someone who cares. Call The Addiction Hope & Help Line for a free assessment. 800-978-6674 (AAN CAN)

Jobs 500 Help Wanted ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE/PAYROLL/ BOOKKEEPER ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE/PAYROLL/ BOOKKEEPER NO Experience necessary. Salary Commensurate, and takes little of your time. Requirements: -Should be a computer literate, must be efficient and dedicated. Please send resume to: brian.michael38@yahoo.com

550 Business Opportunities

Drivers: $$$ Up to 50 CPM + Bonuses $$$ Be Home for the Holidays! BCBS + 401k + Pet & Rider. Free Clinics + Family Friendly. Spanish/ English Orientation Available. CDL-A Req - (877) 258-8782 meltontruck.com/drivers (Cal-SCAN) Drivers: No Experience? Some or LOTS of experience? Let’s Talk! No matter what stage in your career, it’s time, call Central Refrigerated Home. 888-891-2195 www. CentralTruckDrivingjobs.com (CalSCAN) Drivers: Truck Drivers Obtain Class A CDL in 2 ½ weeks. Company Sponsored Training. Also Hiring Recent Truck School Graduates, Experienced Drivers. Must be 21 or Older. Call: (866) 275-2349. (Cal-SCAN) BevMo! is hiring

Business Services 624 Financial Identity Protected? Is Your Identity Protected? It is our promise to provide the most comprehensive identity theft prevention and response products available! Call Today for 30-Day FREE TRIAL 1-800-908-5194. (Cal-SCAN) Reduce Your Past Tax Bill by as much as 75 Percent. Stop Levies, Liens and Wage Garnishments. Call The Tax DR Now to see if you Qualify 1-800-498-1067. (Cal-SCAN) Social Secuity Disability Benefits. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help! WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon and Associates at 1-800-966-1904 to start your application today! (Cal-SCAN) Trouble with IRS? Are you in BIG trouble with the IRS? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Seen on CNN. A BBB. Call 1-800-761-5395. (Cal-SCAN) Trouble with IRS? Are you in BIG trouble with the IRS? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Seen on CNN. A BBB. Call 1-800-761-5395. (Cal-SCAN)

AVON AVON - Earn extra income with a new career! Sell from home, work, online. $15 startup. For information, call: 877-830-2916. (CalSCAN)

636 Insurance

Energetic Office Coordinator eCar Garage is a customer focused automotive repair shop. Job Duties: • Greet customers • Answer multiple calls • Maintain the office and front desk • Data Entry • File invoices • Other duties as assigned Must have the following: • High School diploma • Excellent communication skills • Valid and clean drivers license

Health and Dental Insurance Lowest Prices on Health and Dental Insurance. We have the best rates from top companies! Call Now! 888-989-4807. (CalSCAN)

560 Employment Information

748 Gardening/ Landscaping

Auto Insurance starting at $25/month. Call 855-977-9537 (AAN CAN)

Home Services

$1,000 Weekly!! Mailing brochures from home. Helping home workers since 2001. Genuine Opportunity. No Experience required. Start Immediately www.mailingmembers.com (AAN CAN)

J. Garcia Garden Maintenance Service Free est. 21 years exp. 650/366-4301 or 650/346-6781

Africa, Brazil Work/Study! Change the lives of others and create a sustainable future. 1, 6, 9, 18 month programs available. Apply now! www.OneWorldCenter.org 269.591.0518 info@OneWorldCenter.org (AAN CAN)

LANDA’S GARDENING & LANDSCAPING *Yard Maint. *New Lawns. *Rototil *Clean Ups *Tree Trim *Power Wash *Irrigation timer programming. 18 yrs exp. Ramon, 650/576-6242 landaramon@yahoo.com

FOGSTER.COM

It’s easy to Place your ad via the internet. just go to — www.TheAlmanacOnline.com

GO TO FOGSTER.COM TO RESPOND TO ADS WITHOUT PHONE NUMBERS 26 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q November 26, 2014

MARKETPLACE the printed version of

fogster.com

R.G. Landscape Yard Clean-ups, debris removal, maintenance, installations. Free est. 650/468-8859 Tired of Mow, Blow and Go? Owner operated, 40 years exp. All phases of gardening/landscaping. Ref. Call Eric, 408/356-1350

751 General Contracting A NOTICE TO READERS: It is illegal for an unlicensed person to perform contracting work on any project valued at $500.00 or more in labor and materials. State law also requires that contractors include their license numbers on all advertising. Check your contractor’s status at www.cslb.ca.gov or 800-321-CSLB (2752). Unlicensed persons taking jobs that total less than $500.00 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.

759 Hauling J & G HAULING SERVICE Misc. junk, office, gar., furn., mattresses, green waste, more. Lic./ins. Free est. 650/743-8852 (see my Yelp reviews)

767 Movers Sunny Express Moving Co. Afforable, Reliable, References. Lic. CalT #191198. 650/722-6586 or 408/904-9688

771 Painting/ Wallpaper DAVID AND MARTIN PAINTING Quality work Good references Low price Lic. #52643

(650) 575-2022

Glen Hodges Painting Call me first! Senior discount. 45 yrs. #351738. 650/322-8325 H.D.A. Painting and Drywall Interior/exterior painting, drywall installed. Mud, tape all textures. Free est. 650/207-7703 STYLE PAINTING Full service painting. Insured. Lic. 903303. 650/388-8577

775 Asphalt/ Concrete Mtn. View Asphalt Sealing Driveway, parking lot seal coating. Asphalt repair, striping, 30+ years. Family owned. Free est. Lic. 507814. 650/967-1129 Roe General Engineering Asphalt, concrete, pavers, tiles, sealing, artificial turf. 36 yrs exp. No job too small. Lic #663703. 650/814-5572

779 Organizing Services End the Clutter & Get Organized Residential Organizing by Debra Robinson (650)390-0125

789 Plaster/Stucco Stucco Patch and crack repair, texture match, windows, doors. 30 years exp. Refs. avail. Small jobs only. 650/248-4205

Real Estate 805 Homes for Rent Menlo Park, 4 BR/2 BA - $6150 Mountain View - $3200 Mt. View, 3 BR/2.5 BA - 3600 Mt. View, 3 BR/2.5 BA - 3800 Palo Alto Home, 4 BR/2 BA - $4600.mont San Jose, 3 BR/2.5 BA Blossom Hill,minutes to Hwy101 $2375 (408)262-5555 It’s easy to Place your ad via the internet. just go to — www.TheAlmanacOnline.com

809 Shared Housing/ Rooms All Areas: Roommates.com Lonely? Bored? Broke? Find the perfect roommate to complement your personality and lifestyle at Roommates.com! (AAN CAN) Redwood City, 1 BR/2 BA - $850/mo

825 Homes/Condos for Sale Ath: Prime Central Atherton Lot for Sale with Custom Home Plans. Contact: Cell: 650-740-1110 or Email: timmckeegan@sbcglobal.net Offered at $6,995,000 Menlo Park, 3 BR/2 BA - $899000 Palo Alto, 3 BR/2 BA - $1099000 Sunnyvale, 3 BR/2 BA - $899000

845 Out of Area Income In The Redwoods Rstrnt/Store/Gas sta/3 homes Ministor pot. Hiwy 1 frontage Leggett

Public Notices 995 Fictitious Name Statement PRIMAL FORMS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 262671 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Primal Forms, located at 1040 Whitney Drive, Menlo Park, CA 94025, San Mateo County. Registered owner(s): THOMAS CHANG 1040 Whitney Dr. Menlo Park, CA 94025 This business is conducted by: An Individual. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on N/A. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of San Mateo County on October 21, 2014. (ALM Nov. 12, 19, 26, Dec. 3, 2014) J & H PROPERTIES FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 262898 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: J & H Properties, located at 1950 A Menalto Ave., Menlo Park, CA 94025, San Mateo County. Registered Owner (s): JAY FINLEY 1172 La Rochelle Terrace E Sunnyvale, CA 94089 HONEY FINLEY 621 North Circle Drive Diamond Springs, CA 95619 This business is conducted by: A General Partnership. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on N/A. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of San Mateo County on November 7, 2014. (ALM Nov. 12, 19, 26, Dec. 3, 2014) SV STRATEGIC INSIGHTS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File No.: 263003 The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: SV Strategic Insights, located at 1071 Tehama Ave., Menlo Park, CA 94205, San Mateo County. Registered owner(s): AVI DECORATIVE PAINTING, INC. 670 San Antonio Rd. #31 Palo Alto, CA 94306 S Corp This business is conducted by: A Corporation. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on 11/10/2014. This statement was filed with the County Clerk-Recorder of San Mateo County on November 18, 2014. (ALM Nov. 26, Dec. 3, 10, 17, 2014)

997 All Other Legals ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA FOR THE COUNTY OF SAN MATEO Case No.: CIV530820 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: ANGELITO L. CARVAJAL filed

a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: ANGELO LOZADA CARVAJAL to ANGELITO LOZADA CARVAJAL. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Tue. December 9, 2014, 9:00 a.m., Dept.: PJ, Room: 2J, of the Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo, 400 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063. A copy of this ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: THE ALMANAC Date: October 24, 2014 /s/ Robert D. Foiles JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT (ALM Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26, 2014) T.S. No: V545163 CA Unit Code: V Loan No: 1120002091/ARINO Min No: 1001255-1120002091-9 AP #1: 070-103-340 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE T.D. SERVICE COMPANY, as duly appointed Trustee under the following described Deed of Trust WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (in the forms which are lawful tender in the United States) and/or the cashier’s, certified or other checks specified in Civil Code Section 2924h (payable in full at the time of sale to T.D. Service Company) all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property hereinafter described: Trustor: JORDI ARGENTE ARINO, MARIA THERESA LOBO Recorded June 29, 2012 as Instr. No. 2012-091911 in Book —- Page —- of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of SAN MATEO County; CALIFORNIA , pursuant to the Notice of Default and Election to Sell thereunder recorded August 1, 2014 as Instr. No. 2014-069189 in Book —- Page —- of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of SAN MATEO County CALIFORNIA. YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED JUNE 22, 2012. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. 6 TUSCALOOSA AVENUE, ATHERTON, CA 94027 “(If a street address or common designation of property is shown above, no warranty is given as to its completeness or correctness).” Said Sale of property will be made in “as is” condition without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest as in said note provided, advances, if any, under the terms of said Deed of Trust, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. Said sale will be held on: DECEMBER 2, 2014, AT 12:30 P.M. *AT THE MARSHALL STREET ENTRANCE TO THE HALL OF JUSTICE AND RECORDS 400 COUNTY CENTER REDWOOD CITY, CA 94063 At the time of the initial publication of this notice, the total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the above described Deed of Trust and estimated costs, expenses, and advances is $1,092,162.95. It is possible that at the time of sale the opening bid may be less than the total indebtedness due. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If

THE PENINSULA’S FREE CLASSIFIEDS WEBSITE TO RESPOND TO ADS WITHOUT PHONE NUMBERS GO TO WWW.FOGSTER.COM you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (888) 988-6736 or visit this Internet Web site: salestrack.tdsf.com, using the file number assigned to this case V545163 V. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the monies paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Date: November 3, 2014 T.D. SERVICE COMPANY as said Trustee CHERYL L. GRECH, ASSISTANT SECRETARY T.D. SERVICE COMPANY 4000 W. Metropolitan Drive, Suite 400 Orange, CA 92868-0000 The Beneficiary may be attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained may be used for that purpose. If available , the expected opening bid and/or postponement information may be obtained by calling the following telephone number(s) on the day before the sale: (888) 988-6736 or you may access sales information at salestrack.tdsf.com, TAC# 970536 PUB: 11/12/14, 11/19/14, 11/26/14 ALM ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA FOR THE COUNTY OF SAN MATEO Case No.: CIV530965 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner: COURTNEY AUSTIN LOCKWOOD filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: COURTNEY AUSTIN LOCKWOOD to COURTNEY LOCKWOOD MURPHY. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING: Th. December 11, 2014, 9:00 a.m., Dept.: PJ, Room: 2J, of the Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo, located at 400 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063. A copy of this ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to

the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: THE ALMANAC Date: October 31, 2014 /s/ Robert D. Foiles JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT (ALM Nov. 12, 19, 26, Dec. 3, 2014) Trustee Sale No. 14-001591 CXE Title Order No. 02-14033445 APN 055-342570-3 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 04/27/07. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 12/09/14 at 1:00 pm, Aztec Foreclosure Corporation as the duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Inez Turner-Watkins , A Married Woman As Her Sole And Separate Property And Cedell Turner, Sr., An Unmarried Man, as Trustor(s), in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as Nominee for Quality Home Loans, A California Corporation, as Beneficiary, Recorded on 05/11/07 in Instrument No. 2007073405 of official records in the Office of the county recorder of SAN MATEO County, California; Citibank, N.A., as Trustee for CWABS, INC. Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2007-QX1, as the current Beneficiary, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash, a cashier’s check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state), San Mateo County Courthouse, Southern Branch Hall of Justice & Records, 400 County Center,, Marshall St. Entrance, Redwood City, CA 94063, all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County, California described as: 1344 CHILCO STREET, MENLO PARK, CA 94025 The property heretofore described is being sold “as is”. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to-wit: $440,936.53 (Estimated good through 12/4/14) Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. DATE: November 6, 2014 Robbie Weaver Assistant Secretary & Assistant Vice President Aztec Foreclosure Corporation 20 Pacifica, Suite 1460 Irvine, CA 92618 Phone: (877) 257-0717 or (602) 638-5700 Fax: (602) 638-5748 www.aztectrustee.com NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this prop-

erty lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call or visit the Internet Web site, using the file number assigned to this case 14-001591. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. www.Auction. com or call (800) 280-2832 Or Aztec Foreclosure Corporation (877) 257-0717 www.aztectrustee.com P1119930 11/19, 11/26, 12/03/2014 ALM

PROTECT YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS If it has been 5 years since you filed your Fictitious Business Name Statement (your D.B.A.), you must file again to protect your legal rights. Check your records now to see if your D.B.A. expires this year. Then call the Almanac, 223-6578, for assistance in refiling. It’s inexpensive and easy.

LEHUA GREENMAN May the good things in life be yours in abundance not only at Thanksgiving but throughout the coming year.

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