The Almanac March 4, 2015 by The Almanac

T H E H O M E TO W N N E W S PA P E R F O R M E N LO PA R K , AT H E RTO N , P O RTO L A VA L L E Y A N D W O O D S I D E

M A R C H 4 , 2 0 1 5 | VO L . 5 0 N O. 2 6

W W W. T H E A L M A N AC O N L I N E . C O M

PAG E 5

Fatal crash leaves community searching for safer railroad crossings

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2 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q March 4, 2015

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U PFRONT

Must electricity come from PG&E? Q

County, local towns are looking for an option.

By Dave Boyce Almanac Staff Writer

own councils in Portola Valley, Atherton, Woodside and Menlo Park have taken the first steps in working with San Mateo County in a plan to find an alternative to Pacific Gas & Electric Corp. for supplying electricity to homes and other users. The councils have authorized the release of community electricity usage data to the county. The county Board of Supervisors on Feb. 24 approved spending $300,000 to explore an alternative to PG&E as the sole provider of electricity to communities in the county, according to Jim Eggemeyer of the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sustainability office. The alternative, which goes by the name â&#x20AC;&#x153;community choice aggregation,â&#x20AC;? takes advantage of group purchasing power and focuses on finding sources of green electricity. Green sustainable sources of electricity include solar panels, wind and hydroelectric. The California Public Utilities Commission certifies and oversees the â&#x20AC;&#x153;community choiceâ&#x20AC;? programs, which deliver electricity over PG&Eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grid. PG&E is compensated in the form of fees. The PG&E usage data given to the county is stripped of names, addresses and phone numbers, Mr. Eggemeyer told the Woodside Town Council on Feb. 24. Woodside Councilwoman Deborah Gordon, who chairs a climate protection committee for

the City/County Association of Governments, proposed a working session to educate the Woodside council and the public on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;community choiceâ&#x20AC;? program. A phased-in program

Between now and October, in addition to contacting local government officials and gathering data, the county will be forming a steering committee, hiring technical consultants and preparing a study to be completed by mid-August. If the county decides to go ahead and form a â&#x20AC;&#x153;community choiceâ&#x20AC;? program, it would be under the common control of

A key aim of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;community choiceâ&#x20AC;? program is to increase use of sustainable sources of electricity the communities involved. Such a program in San Mateo County in 2013 could have generated $356 million from residential customers alone, according to a staff report. To create buying power and discounted rates requires plenty of buyers. As the report says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Competitive rates are a must.â&#x20AC;? Participation would be automatic, but customers would have the option to refuse â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to opt out. The program would have bonding authority to initiate local power projects. With no shareholders or highly paid

executives, overhead would be low, the report notes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Community choiceâ&#x20AC;? programs are in place in Marin and Sonoma counties, are in progress in Alameda County, and are under consideration in Santa Clara and Contra Costa counties, the report says, citing figures from Mill Valley-based Lean Energy US. The report says that residential participants in Sonoma County who buy electricity that is 100 percent from sustainable sources pay a premium of about 13 percent over what they would pay PG&E for electricity that is 28 percent sustainable. At a mix of 33 percent sustainable power, the cost is 5 percent under what PG&E customers pay. Residential customers in Marin County can choose 100 percent sustainable electricity and pay only a 2 percent premium, the report says. For commercial customers, PG&E offers a 22 percent mix, but that choice is more expensive than if the customers were to go with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;community choiceâ&#x20AC;? program with mixes of 50 percent or 100 percent sustainable power. The Woodside council, before authorizing release of its electricity usage data, removed from the resolution wording that, to Councilman Peter Mason and some of his colleagues, made unproven judgments about the potential benefits of the program. The Portola Valley and Atherton councils approved release of usage data earlier in February. The Menlo Park council approved release on Feb. 24. A

Mountain lion found on Woodside porch A Woodside resident reported seeing a mountain lion at 9 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 26, on the porch of her home in the 200 block of Mountain Wood Lane, the San Mateo County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office reported. The lion was on the porch about 15 minutes, the woman told deputes. When deputies arrived, the mountain lion left the porch and ran into the hills, they said.

A separate mountain lion sighting took place on Sunday in the same area. That lion had two cubs with it. Most lions avoid confrontation, but the Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office gives these tips for people who see a mountain lion: Q Avoid approaching the mountain lion, especially if it is feeding or has offspring with it. Q If you do encounter one, face

it, make noise, try to look bigger by waving your hands and throw rocks or other objects. Keep a close watch on small children. Q Avoid hiking or jogging at dawn, dusk and night, when mountain lions are most active. Go to keepmewild.org for more information on mountain lions. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Bay City News Service

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Q E-mail news, information, obituaries and photos (with captions) to: editor@AlmanacNews.com Q E-mail letters to the editor to: letters@AlmanacNews.com

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THE ALMANAC (ISSN 1097-3095 and USPS 459370) is published every Wednesday by Embarcadero Media, 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park, CA 940256558. Periodicals Postage Paid at Menlo Park, CA and at additional mailing offices. Adjudicated a newspaper of general circulation for San Mateo County, The Almanac is delivered free to homes in Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley and Woodside. Subscriptions for $60 per year or $100 per 2 years are welcome. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Almanac, 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park, CA 94025-6558. Copyright ÂŠ2014 by Embarcadero Media, All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited.

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Local News M

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T H E R T O N

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A L L E Y

Fatal crash leaves community searching for safer rail crossings

Crossing redesign

Thirteen years ago, Menlo Park decided to look at separat-

dA ve

35-year-old woman died during the evening commute on Feb. 23 when a bullet train struck her car at the Ravenswood Avenue crossing in Menlo Park. The tragedy has left the community wondering what steps can be taken both immediately and in the long-term to prevent more deaths. Jahyun Jennifer Koo, of Palo Alto, was driving west when her silver Acura SUV apparently got stuck on the tracks in the path of a southbound train around 4:45 p.m. A child safety seat was found in the car but was unoccupied, Menlo Park Fire Protection District Chief Harold Schapelhouman said. As the crossing arms descended, traffic apparently boxed her in. The SUV flew 40 feet from the impact with the train, which was likely traveling about 50 mph — slower than the top permitted speed of 79 mph in preparation for stopping in Palo Alto, according to Caltrain officials. Witnesses to the accident administered CPR until medics arrived and took her to Stanford Hospital, said Caltrain spokesperson Mark Simon. She was pronounced dead a short time later. All trains were stopped in both directions for about an hour and then a single track was opened through the area, Caltrain officials said. The crossing gate mechanism was destroyed and although no one onboard was injured, the train sustained “substantial damage,” said Caltrain spokesperson Jayme Ackemann. The tracks underwent repairs until late the following day before the crossing was reopened on Tuesday, Feb. 24, shortly before 5 p.m. The tragedy prompted Caltrain to remind motorists to never stop on the tracks. “Under any circumstances, do not stop on the tracks,” Mr. Simon said. “Don’t start across the tracks until you can get all the way across.”

On the cover: Westbound traffic on Ravenswood Avenue waits for a pedestrian and a train to pass during the evening commute on Friday, Feb. 27. (Photo by Michelle Le/The Almanac.)

Al m aS t

wo o

Almanac Staff Writers

Ra ve ns

By Sandy Brundage and Dave Boyce

Accident site Al m aS t

Ca mi n 82 o Re

The Ravenswood Avenue crossing is particularly complex because of the nearby cross street, Alma Street, which also has a crosswalk. In addition, traffic frequently backs up to the tracks from the stoplight at El Camino Real.

ing the railroad track crossings at Ravenswood, Encinal, Glenwood and Oak Grove avenues from the street, so that cars and pedestrians would no longer have to travel directly over the tracks. Now, the city finally has a $750,000 grant from the San Mateo County Transportation Authority to finalize the design for the Ravenswood crossing. If the design is approved, the tracks would be raised and the roadway depressed, according to the city. In light of the recent fatal collision, the City Council has asked to make the project a priority. However, that still means a long wait. “We are actively working with Caltrain to kickstart the design for Ravenswood in the coming months with the intention of moving this project forward to final completion as soon as (construction) funding and staff capacity becomes available,” Public Works Director Jesse Quirion said. “Due to the size and magnitude of this type of project

Photo by Dave Boyce/The Almanac

The tangled remains of a silver Acura SUV and part of a crossing gate that were destroyed in the crash at the Ravenswood Avenue train crossing in Menlo Park on Feb. 23. The crash took the life of the driver, Jahyun Jennifer Koo, 35, of Palo Alto. Q INFORMATION Q Check AlmanacNews.com for updates, including news from a community meeting on this topic held on March 2, after the Almanac went to press. Q Call Caltrain at (650) 508-7927 to schedule a free rail safety presentation.

it is likely that the design will take around two years to complete and depending on the availability of funding for the construction and staff capacity, the earliest that we could see anything completed would be in the five- to seven- year range.” As for short-term fixes, Mr. Quirion said that as the staff works with the rail agency to analyze the Ravenswood crossing, the city “will continue to monitor the intersection.” When the grade separation study begins, he said, all aspects of pedestrian and vehicular movement will be scrutinized, including locations and placement of the pedestrian crosswalk and vehicular connections to Alma Street and to Ravenswood Avenue. Safety tips

Caltrain spokeswoman Christine Dunn said that collisions between trains and cars “are actually quite unusual.” There

have been eight fatal vehicle collisions on the agency’s tracks since 1992, she said, including Monday’s crash. At the Ravenswood crossing, another collision occurred in April 2012, when a train clipped the rear of a car; both passengers survived, according to Ms. Dunn. A train also knocked the bumper off a car at the crossing in November 2014. No one was injured. Judging from those who use the crossing, however, near misses at that crossing are not uncommon. One scenario has a driver starting to cross once space has opened up on the other side of the crossing, only to have another car change lanes, cutting the driver off and leaving the vehicle stuck on the tracks. Another scenario: traffic appears to be flowing smoothly, then a pedestrian enters the crosswalk, which is about 105 feet from the east side of the tracks, suddenly bringing cars

This Caltrain graphic shows the direction that vehicle occupants should run relative to the train when exiting a vehicle stuck on the tracks.

to a stop. There’s also the possibility that a vehicle could stall on the tracks. If the worst happens and you are stuck on the tracks, “the number one thing you need to do is get out of the car,” said Caltrain spokeswoman Christine Dunn. “Regardless of whether it’s a new car, or you think it might start back up, or whatever, get out of the car.” Then get clear of the right-ofway to avoid debris from a train See CRASH, page 7

March 4, 2015 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 5

N E W S

Should city register private license plate readers? By Sandy Brundage

program so that the city — and police department — know who else is collecting the data. “If we’re going to regulate the ith a policy governing the use of automated police department and we know license plate readers private companies are doing by the police department now this, we should look into it,” Mr. in place, the Menlo Park City Mueller said. His council colleagues wonCouncil may move on to regulating the use of such technology by dered how widespread the issue is. “Many, many, many private private companies. From Oct. 1, 2014, through entities collect license plate inforJan. 1, 2015, the police depart- mation,” Cmdr. Dave Bertini ment’s three mobile automated told them. He said that private license plate readers captured operators don’t have the capacity 172,001 plates, according to a to determine who a license plate quarterly report presented at the number is registered to, but the data can be used by someone Feb. 24 council meeting. who already knows Of the 124 plates the identity of a that were tagged by the system Of the 124 plates particular plate’s owner. as belonging to Mayor Cat wanted vehicles, that were tagged Carlton said she was the “vast majority” by the system “a little blown away” were false hits — as belonging to by the idea of private the officer running the reader com- wanted vehicles, companies deploypared the comput- the ‘vast majority’ ing the license plate readers, but not er’s image to the were false hits. quite enough to leap actual plate and onboard the idea of found a mismatch. But four led to the recovery of a registration program. Like council members Rich unoccupied stolen vehicles, the Cline and Kirsten Keith, she was police department said. The Menlo Park Police reluctant to spend a lot of time Department also queried the and money to get a program license plate database nine times going, only to find that there for investigative purposes dur- may not be any such private ing those three months, accord- operators in Menlo Park. They also suggested this may be a ing to the report. Council members noted dur- problem to tackle at the state ing the report’s presentation level, perhaps through Assemthat the readers are working as blyman Rich Gordon. Mr. Mueller said the state has planned. But Councilman Ray Mueller wants to know whether been trying for years without anything should be done about success to regulate it, so he was license plate readers operated by interested in looking at it from a private parties, who collect data city standpoint. City Manager Alex McIntyre to use for marketing or to sell to background check services, for said he needed to talk to the city attorney to delineate a possible example. He suggested first determin- legal framework for monitoring ing how many private operators private license plate reader operare running license plate readers ators, and whether the issue within Menlo Park, and then belonged at a local, or at a creating a registration or permit broader, level. A Almanac Staff Writer

MARCH IS COLON CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

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To learn more, call 650.736.5555 or visit stanfordhealthcare.org/colonhealth

6 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q March 4, 2015

Fourth measles case reported San Mateo County Health System has confirmed the county’s fourth measles case since the outbreak began last December. Some BART riders may have been exposed to measles when the resident commuted Feb. 20 from Millbrae to the Civic Center in San Francisco, boarding at 4:30 p.m. While the risk of contracting measles by being exposed on BART is low, Bay Area residents should be aware and watch for symptoms if they

are not vaccinated, according to county health officials. “Measles is a highly contagious disease for many people, such as infants, and it’s a preventable disease,” said Dr. Scott Morrow, San Mateo County health officer. “The measles vaccine is safe and being vaccinated not only protects you and your family, but every child and person in your community. I strongly urge everyone to get vaccinated and help stop the spread of measles.”

N E W S

Residents upset with Caltrans plans to spray herbicides along roadsides By Barbara Wood Almanac Staff Writer

he California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has announced that it will spray herbicides along Highway 84 west of Skyline Boulevard twice in early March, and residents of the area are not happy about it. Residents of Skyline Boulevard say they are also unhappy to find out that Caltrans sprayed their roadsides in January without giving the notice it had promised. In 2012, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors banned broadcast spraying of herbicides everywhere in the county except at its two airports. But the county has no authority over Caltrans. Although Caltrans has stopped spraying herbicides in other counties when asked to do so, the agency continues to spray herbicides alongside its highways in San Mateo County. “We really want to see this end,” said Patty Mayall, who lives near La Honda and who led the fight to have the county stop herbicide spraying. “They’re not giving anybody any choice of their public exposure to a toxic chemical,” Ms. Mayall said. “They’re a public agency, our taxes support them. They should be paying attention to public health about this. About our watershed.” In a press release sent out on Feb. 25, less than a week before the first planned spray date, Caltrans spokeswoman Gidget Navarro said Caltrans plans to spray herbicides on two Tuesdays, March 3 and March 10, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. The spraying will be between Skyline Boulevard and Highway 1, on the westbound side of Highway 84 (also known as La Honda Road). “During a routine inspection, Caltrans deemed spraying is necessary for safety measures, such as clearing weeds around signs and guardrails, sight distance, establishing fire strips and (to kill) invasive plants and species that maintenance is not

Graphic courtesy Patty Mayall

Residents in the spray area who do not want Caltrans to spray herbicides near their property should erect “no spray” signs, according to Caltrans spokeswoman Gidget Navarro.

able to control by any other means,” Ms. Navarro said. She said Scotch broom has “encroached the travel way, which creates a safety hazard for motorists.” Ms. Navarro promised crews will not spray in driveways, creeks or near groups of mailboxes, or within 50 feet of any creeks or rivers. Ms. Navarro also said Caltrans will not spray in La Honda or San Gregorio, or on properties that have posted “No Spray” signs.

‘We really want to see this end,’ PATTY MAYALL, L A HONDA

WHO LIVES NEAR

Local residents said that Caltrans recently sprayed herbicides along Skyline Boulevard (also known as Highway 35) without any notice. After San Mateo County banned broadcast herbicide spraying in 2012, Ms. Navarro promised that the agency would not spray unless it had to, and would not do so without prior notice. Margaret MacNiven, who lives off Highway 35 in the Portola Heights neighborhood, noticed and photographed the dying vegetation and Caltrans confirmed that it had sprayed herbicides along Skyline around Jan. 15. “It’s disappointing since San Mateo County has adopted a policy of mowing the side of the road,

a wonderful environmentally sensitive policy,” Ms. MacNiven said. “I thought the spray in January was applied indiscriminately and at a time and in places where it did more harm than good,” she said. Ms. MacNiven said that invasive plants “flourish when the ground is disturbed.” “Over the years,” Ms. MacNiven said, “Skyline, a scenic corridor, has become a mess when it comes to invasives taking over the side of the highway.” The invasive plants, including Star thistle, Italian thistle and Scotch broom, are flourishing, she said “which is sad for a native plant lover like myself.” Amy Shimmick, who lives off Skyline Boulevard above Portola Valley, said she was surprised by the herbicide spraying. “I attended the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors meeting where I thought a resolution was passed to stop broadcast spraying of herbicides,” she wrote in an email to Caltrans. “Can you please tell me why this is happening despite the residents’ continued protests and the board of supervisors’ ban?” “I live up here to raise clean, organic meat and produce for my family and to drink untainted water,” she said. “Caltrans is making this impossible for me.” Ms. Mayall said she would like Caltrans to post notices of the spraying on the roads in several locations, preferably in the form of its large flashing signs, so residents and cyclists will know to avoid the area and to keep pets inside. She would also like Caltrans to let residents know what chemicals are being sprayed. In the past, Caltrans has sprayed with chemicals that the manufacturers suggest people should avoid for at least three days following application, Ms. Mayall said. Ms. Mayall said she has asked San Mateo County supervisors to intervene with Caltrans. The Almanac has attempted to contact Supervisor Don Horsley, whose district includes the areas being sprayed, but he has not responded. A

Fatal crash leaves community searching for safer rail crossings continued from page 5

strike. “If the train is approaching, run in the direction of the train — at an angle, well off the right-of-way, toward the train,” Ms. Dunn said. “It’s counterintuitive.” A train traveling about 79 miles per hour needs at least half a mile to stop, she said. “If you’re off the right-ofway, in a safe spot, we would

like you to call our safe rail phone number and report that your car is stuck on the train tracks. We recommend that people program this into their phone — 1-877-723-7245.” Ms. Dunn said that line goes directly to the county’s Transit Police Bureau, which is the only law enforcement agency with the authority to stop the train. A

Menlo Park foundation awards choreographers The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation in Menlo Park and the Wallace Alexander Gerbode Foundation in San Francisco are awarding $300,000 to California choreographers. The funds will be used

to support the creation and production of new dances. The works will be commissioned by Bay Area nonprofit organizations, each of which will receive a $50,000 grant. Resulting works will have their world premiere per-

formances in the Bay Area between December 2015 and June 2017. Award recipients include: Axis Dance Company, CounterPulse, Destiny Arts Center, ODC, Project Bandaloop, and Yerba Buena Center for the Arts. March 4, 2015 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 7

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1218 West Selby Lane, Redwood City Offered at $1,498,000 Picturesque Home with Detached Guesthouse Prepare to be charmed by this 1 bedroom, 1.5 bath home of 1,050 sq. ft. (per county) with a detached 1 bedroom, 1 bath guesthouse on a lot of 8,470 sq. ft. (per county). This private home boasts a wood-shingled exterior and park-like front lawn. French doors, elegant molding, and original hardwood floors refine the interior, and multiple storage options are at your fingertips. Featuring a wood-burning fireplace and a gorgeous oversized window, the large living room opens to the lovely dining room. Beautiful tile finishes grace the kitchen, and built-in shelves, a walk-in closet, and bathroom access enhance the spacious bedroom. The guesthouse adjoins the one-car garage and workshop. An enclosed deck and a paved terrace with a rustic fireplace complete the property. Set between El Camino Real and Woodside Road, this home enjoys easy access to conveniences. Within steps of Selby Lane School, the home is also nearby Woodside High (buyer to verify eligibility). For video tour & more photos, please visit:

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N E W S

Q PO L I C E C A L LS WOODSIDE Theft: A resident of Eleanor Drive, in a Craigslist transaction, paid a lease on a rental house near Palm Beach, but the transaction was fraudulent. Estimated loss: $6,400. Feb. 12. PORTOLA VALLEY Residential burglary: Someone broke into a storage shed and a residence under construction on Sioux Way and stole construction tools and equipment. Estimated loss: $6,677. Feb. 15. Threat: Someone claiming to have given Woodside Priory School a donation made threats after failing to obtain a refund. The donor allegedly gave the school $3,000 in an online transaction, then asked for a refund on the grounds that she meant to give just $300, adding that her husband had recently died. The

school employee became suspicious after noting the donor’s poor grammar, differing credit card numbers and the absence of a contact phone number. After several emails, the donor threatened the employee’s family. Feb. 20. MENLO PARK Residential burglary: Someone stole a bicycle from an unlocked storage room associated with an apartment carport on Crane Street. Estimated loss: $12,000. Feb. 20. Commercial burglary: A thief broke into the Oil Changers lubrication business at 944 Willow Road by kicking in the bottom of a roll-up bay door, then stole $23 in coins from the till. No estimate on total losses. Feb. 26. Theft: A woman told police that someone stole a wedding ring from inside her backpack while she was swimming in the Burgess Park pool. Estimated loss: $4,000. Feb. 26.

We’re looking for a great CFO Photo by Michelle Le/The Almanac

Our CFO of 20 years is retiring and he will be really hard to replace. Help us find a person with solid financial skills, a passion for local journalism, prior experience with digital media and a personality that fits well with our amazingly talented and diverse staff. For a complete job description, go to embarcaderomediagroup.com

Construction site of the Dutch Goose restaurant, located at 3567 Alameda de las Pulgas in West Menlo Park, on Feb. 22. It will be closed from April 1 to May.

Dutch Goose restaurant races to finish ADA improvements Q

Restaurant one of several local businesses sued by disabled man.

By Elena Kadvany and Sandy Brundage

4 5 0 C A M B R I D G E AV E N U E

PA L O A LT O

usinesses up and down the Peninsula are getting to know one customer by name. A San Jose resident has filed lawsuits for alleged

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10 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q March 4, 2015

violations of the American Disabilities Act against at least six businesses during the past twoand-a-half years. Gerardo Hernandez settled the suit he filed against the Dutch Goose restaurant in West Menlo Park for $64,000, plus the restaurant’s agreement to make a laundry list of changes to its site to improve accessibility by March 31, according to federal court records. The suit, filed in 2013 and settled nearly a year later, said that as a paraplegic, Mr. Hernandez found the designated disabled parking places in front of the restaurant “dangerously configured and constructed” and the access ramp too steep. Tables were not high enough to accommodate his wheelchair underneath, and the bathrooms weren’t accessible at all, according to the filing. Represented by attorneys from the Law Offices of Paul L. Rein, which specializes in disability litigation, Mr. Hernandez has also sued Taqueria El Grullense, Dairy Queen, Ross Stores, Round Table Pizza and, most recently, in December, Canada College and Canyon Inn. Settlements in the closed cases range from $10,000 to $53,000, based on court filings. Mr. Hernandez’s attorneys

were not immediately available for comment. In the case of the Dutch Goose, owner Greg Stern confirmed that the restaurant is in the process of making the required changes by the deadline, including converting half of the kitchen to an ADAcompliant bathroom, designating disabled parking spaces in back of the property, and raising tables. “It hurts because insurance doesn’t cover ADA unfortunately. There’s just too much liability out there,” Mr. Stern said. Having to pay out of pocket is having a huge impact on small businesses, he explained. “When you’re sued like this — lawyers, improvements, settlement — it’s worth a million bucks,” he said. “It’s really just crippling. It just really hurts business. Again, we’re all for ADA. It’s a great thing to be accessible, but there’s gotta be a better way to do it over time rather than overnight.” He said that San Mateo County had signed off on the restaurant previously, but the ADA “rules are so hard to follow.” The Dutch Goose, located at 3567 Alameda de las Pulgas, will likely shut down on April 1 to “tie together the improvements,” with the goal of reopening in May, according to Mr. Stern. A

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March 4, 2015 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 11

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Residents: Traffic challenges abundant along Alpine Road By Dave Boyce Almanac Staff Writer

n the tale of the three communities along the Alpine Road corridor between Menlo Park and Portola Valley, there are certain spots along the road where it can be the worst of times every single day, according to residents who have to deal with the traffic. At the invitation of the county, about 50 residents of Portola

Valley, Ladera and Stanford Weekend Acres gathered at the Portola Valley Community Hall on the evening of Feb. 24 for a measured and cordial airing of grievances. “Getting on to Alpine Road requires a co-pilot,” said Stanford Weekend acres resident Oscar Firschein. “The main problem is there’s no breaks (in traffic) and the cars go so fast that when one lane becomes somewhat open, the other (has traffic). It’s almost like you had

Superintendent on medical leave Maurice Ghysels, superintendent of the Menlo Park City School District, is taking a “short term medical leave,” school board

president Maria Hilton announced Feb. 28. The board appointed Hillview Middle School Principal Erik Burmeister to serve

‘That intersection needs a traffic signal in the worst way.’ JOHN MATTHEWS , A L ADERA RESIDENT

a god sitting up there arranging the traffic to be optimally wrong.” Portola Valley resident David Beaver said he “almost got completely T-boned” at as temporary superintendent during Mr. Ghysels leave, she said. “I know that the Board, staff and community all wish (Mr. Ghysels) a speedy recovery,” she said.

the intersection of Alpine Road and Interstate 280. “I hate that intersection. I’m petrified of it,” he said. “I’ve always looked three times before I go through it.” John Matthews, a resident of Ladera for more than 50 years, talked about the confusing signage and unpredictable behavior of drivers at the intersection of La Cuesta Drive and Alpine, next to the Shell gas station. “That intersection needs a traffic signal in the worst way,” he said. On hand to listen and take notes were San Mateo County Public Works officials Joe Lo Coco and Jim Porter. For them, it was about gathering information ahead of hiring traffic consultants to make a detailed analysis. “We do want to make sure we’ve done due diligence on this corridor, to make sure that it’s been studied and that

you’re presented with that evidence before we go to the Board of Supervisors,” Mr. Porter said. The peak hours of congestion at Alpine and I-280 are between 8 and 10 a.m. and 4 and 6 p.m., Mr. Lo Coco said. Using computer programs, the county can ask “What if?” and make virtual models of traffic flow under different scenarios using different traffic control mechanisms. The priorities include traffic safety, bicycle safety, pedestrian access and congestion relief, Mr. Porter said. Among the available ameliorat ive possibi l it ies a re enhanced stop signs, crosswalk treatments, enhanced bike lanes, traffic signals and even roundabouts, he said. And there is always the option of doing nothing at all, if that is what residents prefer, he added. A

Atherton may vie for accounting contract By Barbara Wood Almanac Staff Writer

therton is considering vying for a contract to provide financial and accounting services for the South Bayside Waste Management Authority, which oversees garbage collection and recycling services for Atherton, Menlo Park and other San Mateo County communities. A report prepared for the special session of the Atherton City Council, set for Wednesday, March 4, says the town might have to hire a part-time employee to take on the contract, but overall winning the contract could save the town money. The meeting starts at 4 p.m. in the town’s council chambers at 94 Ashfield Road. The South Bayside authority is a joint powers agency that owns the Shoreway Environmental Center facility in San Carlos and oversees garbage collection and recycling in Atherton, Belmont, Burlingame, East Palo Alto, Foster City, Hillsborough, Menlo Park, Redwood City, San Carlos, San Mateo and parts of unincorporated San Mateo county. The city of San Carlos currently provides the accounting services for the waste management authority, but the contract expires June 30. The staff report, prepared by Finance Director Robert 12 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q March 4, 2015

Barron, says Atherton could “offset some of the current costs of the Finance Department and expand its service and program capabilities” if awarded the contract, while giving “minor adjustments” to the department’s workers to offset the additional responsibilities. Council member Bill Widmer is now chair of the waste management board, which is made up of representatives of each of its member communities. Wireless charges

Also on the agenda is discussion of how much the town will charge companies that want to install wireless transmission facilities, such as cellphone towers, in Atherton. The charges would be set under the town’s recently adopted Wireless Transmission Facility regulations. A staff report by Finance Director Barron recommends a fee of $2,500 per facility plus a planning review fee of $2,500 and the cost of any additional reviews. Mr. Barron also recommended the town adopt a base lease amount for wireless facilities placed in the town’s right-ofway of at least $3,200 per month, subject to negotiation for the specific location and conditions. The amount of any lease would be approved by the City Council. A

N E W S

Menlo Park will consider financial aid for hotel

Community Health Education Programs

By Sandy Brundage

in and of itself because other uses allowed on a site, such as office space or residential buildproposed 63-room, four- ings, don’t generate anywhere story luxury hotel with near as much annual revenue. The boutique hotel would also rooms at $350 a night at 1400 El Camino Real could require a small exception for deliver Menlo Park up to $8.5 parking. The developer plans million in transient occupancy to build a 75-car garage underground that uses hydraulic lifts tax revenue over 10 years. But the developer is also sug- to stack vehicles vertically, but gesting that $1 million of that go the specific plan’s rules state the to investors instead — an option project should have 79 parking the council was not averse to spaces. Transportation Manager discussing further, provided the city recoups the money down Nikki Nagaya attributed the difference to the spethe road. cific plan assuming a During a study hotel would include session on Feb. 24, local developer The developer a fitness center that suggests that could be used by Jeff Pollock of the public, thereby Pollock Financial $1 million of the increasing site trafGroup said that a the transient fic. Since the Pollock “minimal level of assistance” from occupancy tax hotel doesn’t include exercise facilities, it’s the city would help secure the $31.5 revenue go to reasonable to allow million project’s its investors. four fewer parking spaces, she suggested financing. The appeal for the city is obvi- to the council. The developer is still fineous — right now the property, which used to house a Shell gas tuning the details. Based on the station, is home to a bunch of council’s input, project represhrubs and dirt. “It looks like a sentatives said they’d look at lot of (downtown) lots,” Coun- adding charging stations for cilman Rich Cline wryly noted. electric vehicles to the garage, While not opposed to shar- and incorporating more “green ing the transient occupancy tax design” elements if it makes revenue, Mr. Cline said he was sense economically. Mayor Cat Carlton suggested concerned about maintaining the integrity of the downtown/ the Pollock Financial Group El Camino Real specific plan “as pay particular attention to how projects come in and start whit- well the hotel’s architecture tling it down ... at what point can will suit Menlo Park. If she’s we say no to others who want to learned anything in two years on the council, she said, it’s to come in?” City Attorney Bill McClure not underestimate people’s passaid there was nothing binding sion for architecture. “Modern about making exceptions for just doesn’t fly here. ... Think one project, pointing out that warmth, Mediterranean ... don’t the specific plan allows for some think walls with windows.” Mr. Pollock told the Almanac discretion. He also said that as far as public benefit in exchange he hopes to start construction of for exceeding the base level of the 33,750-square-foot hotel in building density goes, the plan early 2016 and finish within 12 does regard a hotel as a benefit to 14 months. A Almanac Staff Writer

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

Burglary suspect pleads no contest A jury trial had been ahead for Robert James Clark, a 22-year-old transient accused of burglarizing a Menlo Park home in March 2014, but on Feb. 17, Mr. Clark agreed to enter a plea of no-contest to one count of residential burglary. The plea bargain includes a condition of no more than nine years in state prison. A sentencing hearing is set for March 26, according to a report by San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe.

Mr. Clark is accused of breaking into a home in the 300 block of Laurel Street and stealing a “large quantity of jewelry,” prosecutors said. According to Mr. Wagstaffe, a neighbor saw a man walking in the backyard of a nearby home and called police, who investigated and found a backpack in the yard with the stolen jewelry inside. The neighbor identified Mr. Clark as the suspect, prosecutors said. Mr. Clark is in San Mateo County jail on $100,000 bail.

March 2015 Dr. Marvin Small Memorial Parent Workshop How to Stay Connected to Your Kids March 10, 7 to 8:30 p.m. PAMF Sunnyvale Center 301 Old San Francisco Road, 2nd Fl. Conference Center, Sunnyvale • (408) 730-2810

Dr. Tom McDonald Memorial Lecture Series Is a Vegetarian Diet Right for You? March 10, 7 to 8:30 p.m. PAMF Palo Alto Center 795 El Camino Real, 3rd Fl. Conference Center, Jamplis Building • (650) 853-4873

Dementia Caregiver Education Series: Legal Planning Tips March 12, 1 to 2:30 p.m. PAMF Sunnyvale Center 301 Old San Francisco Road, 2nd Fl. Conference Center, Sunnyvale • (408) 730-2810

Advancements in Cataract Surgery March 18, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Sunnyvale City Senior Center 550 E. Remington Drive, Sunnyvale • (408) 730-7360

Detox Your Home March 24, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cupertino City Senior Center 21251 Stevens Creek Boulevard, Cupertino • (408) 777-3150

Take Control of Your Headaches March 24, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Sunnyvale Public Library 665 W. Olive Avenue, Sunnyvale • No registration required

Don’t Turn Green, Live Green March 31, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Los Gatos Public Library 100 Villa Avenue, Los Gatos • No registration required

March 4, 2015 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 13

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Midpen buys conservation easement The Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District has approved using Measure AA funds to purchase a $2.5 million conservation easement for the historic 353 acre Alpine Ranch in La Honda. The Peninsula Open Space Trust acquired the ranch in 2012 for $5 million and will continue as its owner. The property is adjacent to Pescadero Creek and Sam McDonald county parks and features views of the Pescadero

Creek watershed. It also has a pond, habitat for several threatened animal and plant species, and abundant redwood trees. “This is exactly what the public intended when they approved Measure AA in June 2014,” said district general manager Steve Abbors. Once zoned for nine ranchettes, the property will be protected in perpetuity as public land and will eventually include new trails and improved access.

Douglas Michael McDonnell July 4, 1961 – February 8, 2015 Douglas Michael McDonnell, 53, passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 8, 2015, unexpectedly. Doug was a resident of Newark, California. Born in Ridgewood, New Jersey and raised in Atherton, California, Doug (also known as “Bug” to his friends and family) attended Menlo-Atherton High School (Class of ’79), the University of California Los Angeles, and graduated with a Business degree from Saint Mary’s College of California, in Moraga, in 1984. Doug’s career interest in architecture began in high school when he started working part-time for noted architects Albert A. Hoover, and Bill H. Bocook both of Hoover & Associates in Palo Alto at that time. After college, Doug managed apartment building renovations in San Francisco’s Portrero Hill area for The Shamrock Group, and worked on home renovation assignments in Atherton, CA. In 1996, Doug joined Bill Bocook, at his firm, B. H. Bocook, Architect, Inc. in Palo Alto where Doug remained for 18 years working in the field he loved. His office designed many projects throughout Northern California including the renovation of the Stanford Sunken Diamond, the award winning William and Flora Hewlett Foundation building in Menlo Park, and the AIA design award winning office building at 1600 El Camino Real, in Menlo Park. Doug adored his family, friends and animals. His passion for life and positive energy was most infectious. Whenever Doug arrived, the fun rushed in with him. He enjoyed traveling, especially to Lake Tahoe and his home in Hawaii. He enthusiastically and generously gave his time advising family, friends, and colleagues on home renovations and real estate purchases. He shared his boundless creative ideas and wonderful sense of humor with everyone he met in every aspect of his life. Doug had an amazing ability to create memorable moments and lasting friendships wherever he went. Forever outgoing, ebullient, selfless, caring and kindhearted, Doug will be greatly missed by his parents Philip A. and Catherine McDonnell of Atherton; by his seven adoring brothers and sisters and their spouses: Philip J. McDonnell (Pat) of Menlo Park; Dennis McDonnell (Celeste) of Atherton; Adrienne McDonnell (Barry Staw) of Kensington; Corinne Chavez of Danville; Kevin McDonnell of Pleasanton; David McDonnell (Ardis) of San Ramon; and Carolyn Beckwith (Dave) of Menlo Park; and by his 15 cousins, 13 nieces and nephews, as well as 6 great nieces and nephews. A Memorial Mass and Celebration of Doug’s Life will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2015, at 1:30pm at The Church of the Nativity, 210 Oak Grove Avenue in Menlo Park. His interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in Menlo Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Douglas M. McDonnell’s memory can be made to Saint Mary’s College of California, P.O. Box 4300, Moraga, CA. 94575, or www.tessfoundation.org, at 655 Oak Grove Avenue #53, Menlo Park, CA 94026 or any charity of the donor’s choosing. PA I D

O B I T U A RY

14 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q March 4, 2015

Photo by Michelle Le/The Almanac

The grandstand for the new Homer Field at Willie Mays Ballpark in Atherton’s Holbrook-Palmer Park will have a cupola, weather vane and a widow’s walk to help it fit in with the historic buildings in the park.

Ballpark due to open in April By Barbara Wood Almanac Staff Writer

he new Little League field and grandstand in Atherton’s HolbrookPalmer Park should be completed in time to begin games on the field in early April, with official opening ceremonies in May, town and Little League officials say. When completed, the new Little League field, which will be called Homer Field at Willie Mays Ballpark, will have a covered grandstand designed to seat as many as 200 spectators, covered dugouts, a permanent scoreboard, bathrooms, foul

Q ATH E RTON

poles, storage and an improved field. The project was paid for entirely by the Little League, which also donated money to the town for other park and tennis court improvements. The Little League field was one of the measures put before Atherton voters in 2012, along with the issue of building a new library in the park. More than 75 percent of voters approved the Little League project, but after the vote, debate arose over just what the voters had said yes to. A group of Atherton resi-

Kidnapper of Woodside High student may be paroled After serving a little more than 25 years of a life sentence in state prison, parole may be ahead for Octavio Godinez Valdiosera Sr. He was convicted in 1990 of the kidnapping for ransom of a 16-year-old student at Woodside High School. At his 12th hearing before the Board of Parole, a twoperson panel found him suitable for release, saying that he is “not an unreasonable risk of danger to the public,” according to a report by San Mateo County District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe. The decision now goes to the govenor for review, pros-

ecutors said. Mr. Valdiosera is currently in the California State Prison at Solano in Vacaville.

He is ‘not an unreasonable risk of danger to the public.’ Mr. Valdiosera kidnapped the Woodside student in March 1990 and took him to Los Angeles, where he was kept in handcuffs at gunpoint for two weeks, prosecutors said. Mr. Valdiosera demanded $100,000 in ransom from the

dents, led by Wally Sleeth, has continued to protest aspects of the project even though construction is well underway. Mr. Sleeth’s latest request is for the town to make sure the finishes on the grandstand fit in with those of other structures in the park. City Manager George Rodericks said an ad hoc council committee, consisting of council members Elizabeth Lewis and Cary Wiest, examined the final plans to make sure they are compatible with the historic character of other park improvements and will make sure the finishes used are those approved by the town. A student’s father, allegedly to pay off a debt to the Medellin drug cartel, prosecutors said. His life sentence, handed down by a San Mateo County judge in January 1991, included the possibility of parole. Inmates are released to the county in which they were convicted. Asked to comment, Mr. Wagstaffe said in an email that his office “believed the defendant remains an undue risk of danger to the community if released.” “But,” he added, “even though we did not agree with it, the decision of the parole board was a reasonable one under all the circumstances.” The Almanac was unable to reach an attorney who could speak for Mr. Valdiosera.

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German-American school finds new home The German-American International School has filed for a use permit to relocate from 275 Elliott Drive to 475 Pope Street, site of the vacant Menlo Oaks School, according to the city of Menlo Park. GAIS would use existing buildings on approximately four acres of the Pope Street site, and make improvements, including the addition of five portable classrooms, a play space, storage sheds and expanded parking lot. The proposed educational program would include pre-

school through 12th grade, with the high school program phased in over four years, the city said. The school was forced to leave its site on Elliott Drive in the Willows neighborhood to make way for a new school to be built by the Menlo Park City School District, which owns the site.

the publication’s Willow Road campus June 6-7. The Menlo Park Planning Commission on Feb. 23 unanimously approved a one-year extension of the permit authorizing the Sunset Celebration Weekend. The campus, located at 80 Willow Road, was sold in December to a local real estate investment firm, leaving plans for future Sunset events up in the air.

Sunset weekend

Beechwood School

Sunset Magazine will hold what might be its last party at

Renovations of four classrooms and the administra-

Q B R IEF S

tion building were recently finished at Beechwood School, located at 50 Terminal Ave. in Menlo Park, completing the second phase of the school’s planned upgrades. The school celebrated the achievement on Feb. 19 with speeches and song. The first phase, which finished in July 2014, added a social center, library, two classroom buildings and a playing field. The school, a private Belle Haven facility for grades K-8, bought the site it sits on at 50 Terminal

Ave., as well as another 1.5 acres, from Menlo Park in March for $1.25 million.

Summer camp fair The city of Menlo Park will host a summer camp fair from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 6, at the Arrillaga Family Recreation Center at 700 Alma St. Free pizza, games and crafts will be available, along with a 10 percent discount on camps if you register during the fair. A raffle for prizes that include a free week of camp will round out the event. People looking for summer employment may submit applications.

Katherine Shepherdson Hass 12/19/95 – 2/20/15 Katherine Shepherdson Hass, beloved daughter of Tracy and Eric Hass, passed away on Friday, February 20th from injuries suffered while scuba diving. A life-long resident of Menlo Park, Katherine attended Trinity School through the 5th grade. In the 6th grade, she enrolled at Castilleja School graduating from high school this past May. Katherine was a freshman at Claremont McKenna College in Claremont, CA. Katherine’s was a life of activity and energy. She loved adventure. She loved exploring and experiencing new things, and, with her parents, she travelled the world. In her heart, she held a special place for Tanzania where she volunteered and lived with a family for 6 weeks during her Sophomore summer. Katherine enjoyed philosophy and robotics; however, she was an avid and accomplished scuba diver. This was her true passion. Far beyond the activity of Katherine’s life, the things that she did, is the person that she was. Self-motivated, self-disciplined, and capable from an early age at Trinity School, she was recognized as reflective and compassionate, gracious and intelligent as she matured. She has been described as a “child with insight, humor, and consistency who benefited her peers and her teachers as much as she gained from them…a wonderful student and a confident young woman who is a leader by her actions and her inclusion of all children in her sphere.” Katherine focused her energy on developing diversity and social justice programs at school, pursuits that required empathy, passion, and eloquence. Her goal was to give others a voice, to champion inclusion and acceptance, and to welcome and celebrate individual differences. Hers was the heart of a born leader. Finally, although Katherine’s life was all too short, it was extremely full. She was a young woman of love and gratitude. She loved her family and the special, private moments they spent together. She loved her friends and the rich relationships they offered, and she is remembered by a classmate as one “who proved time and time again that there is always hope.” Katherine was grateful for all that she had been given and made it a point to give back. She was, herself, an immeasurable and irreplaceable gift who will be sorely missed by her family and by all who were privileged to know her. Katherine’s last days were spent in the loving care of the doctors and nurses at Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula (CHOMP). We wish to thank these doctors and nurses for their care of Katherine herself and for the comfort that this care and that they, personally, brought her family. There will be a Celebration of Life on March 11, 2015 at 3:00 pm at the Menlo Circus Club, 190 Park Lane, Atherton, CA. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Community Hospital Foundation, Post Office Box HH, Monterey, CA 93942 or to Givetochomp.org. PA I D

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Preparing for Multiples Saturday, April 4: 12:00pm to 4:30pm Are you expecting twins, or triplets or more? With the potential for early delivery, expectant parents of multiples are encouraged to learn everything there is to know about carrying and delivering multiple infants. Wednesday, April 15: 7:00pm to 8:30pm Dads of Daughters: The Joys and Challenges of Raising Teen Girls Julie Metzger RN, creator of our “Heart to Heart” program, hosts an evening for fathers who seek understanding and open communication with their preteen and teenage daughters. 4 Fridays, April 17 – May 8: 11:00am to 12:30pm Infant Massage Workshop 4-week Class Learn the techniques of infant massage along with tips to relieve gas, aid digestion and soothe the soreness of vaccination sites on your baby. Recommended for infants from one month of age to crawling.

Classes in English and Spanish. Space is limited. To register or for more information call (650) 724-4601 or visit classes.stanfordchildrens.org

O B I T U A RY

March 4, 2015 Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q The Almanac Q 15

Joe & Mary Merkert 650.387.5464 / 650.303.2221 jmerkert@apr.com / mmerkert@apr.com

Lynn Wilson Roberts

WOODSIDE

$28,888,000

Sophisticated country living. 14,000 sq. ft. residence on 3.5+/acres. Chef’s kitchen, 13,000 bottle wine cellar, 4 master suites. Guest and Carriage house.

Judy BogardTanigami

LOS ALTOS

$4,795,000

650.207.2111 Built in 2006. 5bd/5.5ba home features 2 family rooms, judytanigami@gmail.com theatre, and wine cellar. 16,552+/- sf lot.

Erika Ameri LOS ALTOS

$4,695,000

650.255.6987 At the end of one of Los Altos’ most coveted streets, this lwr@wilsonroberts.com spectacular custom home has been constructed with extraor-

650.209.1508 eameri@apr.com

LOS ALTOS HILLS

$4,695,000

Stunning 5bd/3.5ba home situated on a serene 1+/-acre lot surrounded by majestic oaks.

dinary attention to detail.

COMING SOON

Lynn Wilson Roberts

Judy Citron

WOODSIDE $4,200,000 650.255.6987 lwr@wilsonroberts.com Just a mile from Woodside Road, but away from the hustle

650.543.1206 jcitron@apr.com

and bustle. Swimming pool, spa, lush lawns, stable, decks, view to the bay, vineyard, in law unit and much more.

J.Stricker/ S.TenBroeck 650.823.8057 jstricker@apr.com

EMERALD HILLS $ UPON REQUEST Stunning modern home on over an acre with glorious views, 5bd/4ba, 4400+/-sf, huge windows, magnificent entertaining yard.

Monica Corman LOS ALTOS

$2,500,000

Exceptional 4bd/3.5ba custom-built home, 2883+/- sf, on a 9476+/- sf lot. Los Altos Schools with Oak Elementary.

650.543.1164 mcorman@apr.com

MENLO PARK

$1,850,000

Very charming and classic 3bd/2ba home in downtown Menlo Park, close to everything. Menlo Park Schools.

SOLD

Ellen Ashley 650.888.1886 eashley@apr.com

Angie Galatolo MENLO PARK

$1,795,000

Charming University Heights 4bd home sold in 8 days with multiple offers. Updated with professionally designed outdoor areas.

650.704.8168 agalatolo@apr.com

LOS ALTOS

$1,749,000

Picturesque creekside setting! 13,000+/- sf lot located across the street from Los Altos Golf & Country Club.

Square footage, acreage, and other information herein, has been received from one or more of a variety of diﬀerent sources. Such information has not been veriﬁed by Alain Pinel Realtors. If important to buyers, buyers should conduct their own investigation.

See it all at

APR.COM

/alainpinelrealtors @alainpinelrealtors

Palo Alto 650.323.1111 | Menlo Park 650.462.1111

16 Q The Almanac Q TheAlmanacOnline.com Q March 4, 2015