Redwood City

PORTOLA VALLEY YOUTH, 17, in coma after car crash. Page 9

THE HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER FOR MENLO PARK, ATHERTON, PORTOLA VALLEY AND WOODSIDE

AUGUST 16, 2006 www.AlmanacNews.com | VOL. 41 NO. 50

After 42 years with Woodside ﬁ ﬁre, re, Chief Mike Fuge is retiring Page 12 apr.com

REDEFINING QUALITY SINCE 1990 Reading between the emotional line makes the difference between finding a house and a home.

PALO ALTO Secluded on a quiet cul-de-sac, this 6bd/4.5ba spacious and elegant traditional home feels miles away from it all. Offering a sleek architectural nod to Italianate styling, the clean-lined stucco façade features banks of unadorned windows, a low- pitched tiled roof with deep overhangs, and French doors to an inviting entry terrace with a fountain. $2,988,000

MENLO PARK This recently updated 3bd/2ba ranch-style home is in a fabulous West Menlo Park location. Next door to Oak Knoll School and close to Stanford University, Stanford Shopping Center and Sharon Heights Shops. Lovely grove of redwood trees in beautiful backyard. $1,480,000

REDWOOD CITY Conveniently located, this spacious 3bd/2.5ba home features a master suite with walk in closet, large kitchen with breakfast bar, separate living and dining room, and an open family room leading to the patio and backyard with lawn. $1,095,000

apr.com | MENLO PARK OFFICE 620 SANTA CRUZ AVENUE 650.462.1111

2 ■ The Almanac ■ August 16, 2006 custom jewelers

This week’s news, features and community events.

FIRST SHOT

Water safety Swim instructors, from left, Lauren Kirkpatrick, Sarina Gross, Loree Watanabe and Sergio Callejas demonstrate swim strokes to children participating in the Family Connections program at the Onetta Harris Community Cen- ter pool in Menlo Park. In front are barbell floats used in the swim instruction. See story on Page 20. The Almanac/Marjan Sadoughi

Atherton Election 2006 ■ Atherton man wins $4.1 million in World ■ County may vote on eSlate machines in Series of Poker. Page 7 November election. Page 8 ■ Sheriff in race for health-care district board. Menlo Park Page 10 208208 MainMain StreetStreet •• LosLos Altos,Altos, CACA •• 650.917.8697650.917.8697 ■ “Slate politics” shapes council race: Three www.personalizedgiftstop.com would-be candidates, including Steve Schmidt, Artscene decide not to run. Page 5 ■ San Francisco Opera event at St. Bede’s August ■ Menlo Park native, 25, killed in Santa Barbara 27. Page 29 car crash. Page 9 Viewpoint Is your Portola Valley ■ Letters: Three views of child care costs. Page 23 ■ Portola Valley youth, 17, in coma after car ■ Editorial: Fire board tackles pensions. Page 22 addiction crash. Page 9 Family Almanac hurting Woodside ■ Graduation day at Haven Family House in ■ Town pays off debt, burns “mortgage.” Page 10 Menlo Park. Cover, Section 2 anyone? Community ■ Auxiliary opens Artisan Shop at Allied Arts Guild. Page 5

Also Inside On the cover Births ...... 21 Mike Fuge, a firefighter with the Woodside Fire Calendar ...... 30 Protection District since he was 19 years old, came Graduates ...... 21 up through the ranks, becoming chief in 1992. HE SEQUOIA CENTER helps families recover the Letters ...... 22 During his 42-year career, he’s battled big fires, balance in their lives from the effects of abusing alcohol Obituaries ...... 20 championed the county firefighter/paramedic T Police Calls ...... 21 program, and been named Room Mother of the and other drugs. Our services are offered in a warm and caring Weddings ...... 28 Year by Selby Lane School. Now, he’s anticipating environment by trained staff dedicated to helping individuals a retirement of simple pleasures. Photo by Marjan gain control over their lives. Sadoughi. Story begins on Page 12. The Sequoia Center is licensed through –Call today 1-800-997-5504 CALLING ON THE ALMANAC the State of California to deliver: to schedule a free, conﬁ dential assessment with one Medical Detoxiﬁ cation The Almanac offices are at 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park, CA 94025. THE ALMANAC (ISSN 1097-3095 and USPS 459370) is • of our Specialists. published every Wednesday by Embarcadero Publishing Outpatient Treatment (Day & Evening) For Classified ads, call 854-0858 ■ E-mail news to (no photos please): Co., 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park, CA 94025- • [email protected] 4455. Periodicals Postage Paid at Menlo Park, CA and at THE For all other calls, phone 854-2626 additional mailing offices. Adjudicated a newspaper of general • Residential Treatment News: Ext. 213 ■ E-mail news photos with captions to: circulation for San Mateo County, The Almanac is delivered sequoia free to homes in Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley and • Integrated Behavioral Health CENTER Display advertising: Ext. 233 [email protected] ■ Woodside. Voluntary subscriptions for $30 per year or $50 per Programs /Partial Hospitalization CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY TREATMENT SERVICES Fax: 854-0677 E-mail letters to the editor to: 2 years are welcome from residents of the above circulation [email protected] area. Subscription rates for businesses and for residents of /Day Treatment 650 Main Street, Redwood City other communities is $50 per year and $80 for two years. 2660 Solace Place, Suite A, Mountain View POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Almanac, P.O. 800-997-5504 • www.sequoiacenter.com To request free delivery, or stop delivery, of The Almanac in zip code 94025, 94027, Box 7008, Menlo Park, CA 94026-7008. Copyright ©2006 by 94028 and the Woodside portion of 94062, call 854-2626. Embarcadero Publishing Co., All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. HEALTH • HOPE • RECOVERY August 16, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 3 Summer Specials A TOWN MARKET PLACE 3015 WOODSIDE ROAD WOODSIDE, CA 94062 Heirloom Tomato Salad 650-851-1511 Fresh Mozzarella, Basil, Open 6:30AM - 8PM Lemon Olive $ 99 . . . Sale Dates: August 16, 17, 18, 19 7 lb. Roberts NOW at www.robertsmarket.com S USHI Roberts’ Gazpacho Soup Made Fresh Daily with Avocado… refreshing!!!! $ 59 . . . 5 lb. Mix Medley, pints $ ORGANIC CHERRY TOMATOES 1.99ea. Clip Tops ¢ LOOSE CARROTS 39 lb. Sweet ¢ CANTALOUPE 49 lb. California New Crop ¢ GALA APPLES 1.29 lb.

Fishing for Something Different EMMA – DELI One of the quietest yet biggest changes in American eating habits of recent years has been the trend toward fish. One reason is a greater awareness of the potential health benefits of eating fish. Another is the growing abundance of formerly “unknown” varieties of fish at markets and on menus across the country. For example, have you ever heard of ocean catfish, also known as wolf fish? Despite its brutish sounding name, this big, white fish offers up surprisingly tender, even sweet fillets. Alaskan white bass is another mild-tasting newcomer to many American kitchens. Rosé ~ Red Wines for Fish With today’s improved, super-fast transportation networking, fresh fish from WHY IS IT that you can’t have red wine with many kinds of fish? Well, it turns out virtually anywhere in the world may be coming soon to a menu near you! that red wine tannins react chemically with fish, producing unpleasant flavors. So, take the tannins out and problem solved! Rosé has little, or no, tannin. They are “red wines for fish.” Fish comes in many textures and tastes, and can be prepared in many, many ways. Fish is found in just about every cuisine. A world of high quality fresh fish, meats, Here are a few delicious and refreshing suggestions: poultry, produce, etc. awaits you here. Ours is a 2005 Verget du Sud, Cotes du Luberon ...... Reg. $10.00 Sale - $8.99 unique food market stressing service. You’ll Classic. enjoy shopping in our expertly refurbished 2005 Bastianich Rosato (100% Refosco), Friuli ...... Reg. $15.00 Sale - $12.99 historic building. We stock wines, beers, and you Fruity, fragrant and dry. can even bring fresh breads and flowers home. 2005 Ch. de Trinquevedel, Tavel ...... Reg. $15.00 Sale - $12.99 Tavel can only be rosé! No reds or whites there! Hint: Farm-raised fish from other 2005 Ch. de Puligny - Montrachet Bourgogne, Pinot Noir . . . Reg. $16.00 Sale - $13.99 countries, such as the ultra-mild “tilapia” from Pure, fresh Pinot fruit with dazzing acidity. Costa Rica, are adding variety to U.S. menus. 2005 Robert Sinskey Yin Gris of Pinot Noir, Carneros . . . Reg. $18.00 Sale - $15.99 California’s best rosé? You decide. 2005 Enchanteur, Barossa Valley ...... Reg. $23.50 Sale - $19.99 100% Grenache and utterly beguiling. Delicious. Camille Savès Rosé Champagne, Bouzy ...... Reg. $58.00 Sale - $49.99 An incredible rosé Champagne that’s very food worthy. Great wine! HENRY WEINHARDT ROOT BEER $ 12 oz. 6-Pack Bottles – Plus Calif. Redeem Value 3.99 KELLOGG’S EGGO HOMESTYLE WAFFLES $ 12 oz. – Also Blueberry 1.59 Special This Week KRAFT SOFT SALMON CREAM CHEESE $ 8 oz. – Also Chive and Onion – Strawberry 1.69 $ TILAPIA FILLET 5.98lb. SUN MAID DRIED APRICOTS 6 oz. $ $ 2.99 TOMBO TUNA 12.98lb. KELLOGG’S VARIETY PACK CEREAL $ $ 10 count 3.49 PETRALE SOLE 13.98lb. SPIC AND SPAN - THE COMPLETE HOME CLEANER $ $ 28 oz. – Liquid 1.99 MONKFISH 14.98lb.

4 ■ The Almanac ■ August 16, 2006 Short takes

M ENLO PARK | ATHERTON | WOODSIDE | PORTOLA V ALLEY

Fans get Giant reward It was one heck of a ballgame for Menlo Park ‘Slate politics’ shaping council race resident Alice Kleeman ■ Schmidt, two others, change ■ Transportation Commissioner and her 23-year-old MENLO ELECTION John Boyle, who said he often daughter Georgia. Geor- mind about running for council. The deadline for filing papers is agrees with the two incumbents, gia entered the “My SF By Rory Brown the community opposed to the Wednesday, August 16, at 5 p.m. is also running for a council seat. Giants Contest” and won Almanac Staff Writer current, three-person council The three would-be candidates a trip to a game pitched majority — all of whom are up are associated with the “residen- Their own slate by her “Giant” crush, hree community activists for re-election this November. tialists” — effectively a Menlo Although residentialists are Noah Lowry. Alice got a who had earlier announced Mr. Schmidt said the goal of Park movement whose mem- united in their opposition to the chance to sit in the booth they would run for seats on the process was to create a “resi- bers generally oppose increased current council majority, they during the third inning T the Menlo Park City Council dentialist” slate of candidates development and traffic. have disagreed on who, within with her “Giant” crush, — including former mayor Steve that will garner more votes than The group is openly against in their own group, should be on announcer Mike Kru- Schmidt and his wife, Brielle the current majority, but influen- the current council majority of the ballot. kow. Johnck — have abandoned their tial members of the community Nicholas Jellins, Mickie Winkler Two residentialist groups have And there weren’t the plans, citing a mix of disgust and used the process to get their spe- and Lee Duboc, whose seats are formed — a group that includes only ones to get special despair associated with behind- cial interests represented among up for re-election this year. Those former Menlo Park mayors and goodies at the game, Alice the-scenes politics as the reason. the approved candidates. three members garner more sup- current council members Fer- says. Her other daughter Mr. Schmidt, who in March Ms. Johnck took out candidate port from business and real estate gusson and Cohen, and a group Lexy, a teacher a Hillview told the Almanac he planned to papers last week after Mr. Schmidt interests than their council col- of anti-development residents Middle School, caught run, said he changed his mind decided not to run. She said Mon- leagues, Andy Cohen and Kelly — to whittle down the list of a foul ball in the fourth because of the political feuding day, however, that she won’t file Fergusson, who are often sup- residentialists on the ballot. inning and Lexy’s boy- fueled by “slate politics.” them, largely because she is also ported by the residentialists. The groups forged a compro- friend Mike caught one in He was referring to an elabo- deterred by the behind-the-scenes Although only two members of mise to support a slate of just three the eighth inning. rate candidate selection process politics that also prompted Eliza- the current majority — council candidates so votes cast in opposi- “What are the odds?” conducted over the last few beth Lasensky to change her mind members Winkler and Duboc says Alice. weeks by influential figures in about running. — are running for re-election, See VOTE, page 8 Having a Wales of a good time “It sounds just like a novel. You should write a book,” people tell former Atherton resident Sylvia Nichols Jones when she recounts how she fell in love with Wales — and a Welshman. So she did. “No, I Live Here” is an autobio- graphical account of Ms. Jones’ visits to Conwy, Wales, in 2001 and 2003. Shortly after arriving in North Wales, she met a local man, Peter Jones, who enjoyed showing her around. Apparently, she enjoyed it too, because Dawn Naso, the couple is now married Artisan Shop and living in Wales. co-chairman, shows “I decided to tell our handmade quilts by California artists that story and to share my are featured in the enthusiasm for Welsh new shop at Allied scenery and history,” Arts Guild. says Ms. Jones, who lived in Lloyden Park in The Almanac/Marjan Sadoughi Atherton from 1992 to 2001. “No, I Live Here” is both a romance and Auxiliary opens Artisan Shop at Allied Arts Guild guidebook, says her friend Louise Sherman By Jane Knoerle atmosphere. The Spanish Colonial build- dio of famed photographer Ansel Adams. of Palo Alto. Almanac Lifestyles Editor ings and lush gardens were inspired by the Outside the shop’s doors are frescoes by The book has not been Merners’ visits to Granada, Spain. Maxine Albro, a student of Diego Rivera. published in the United he opening of the Artisan Shop at Allied The new Artisan Shop is operated by The Court of the Potter also includes a States, but is available on Arts Guild is another step in return- volunteers of the Woodside-Atherton gallery operated by the Menlo Art League. line from www.ylofa.com. Ting the historic site to the vision of its Auxiliary, which owns the Guild. It fea- The Portola Gallery, formerly located at the founders, Delight and Garfield Merner. tures many hand-made, one-of-a-kind Portola Valley Town Center, is also opening Edited by Andrea Gemmet, When the Merners created the Menlo items, and is located in the Court of the soon in the Allied Arts Guild complex. It [email protected]. Park showplace almost 80 years ago, it was Potters, which housed the original potters will display the works of seven painters and their dream to develop a setting where art- who worked at the Guild. ists and craftsmen could work in a creative The building across the way was the stu- See ARTISAN, page 21

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6 ■ The Almanac ■ August 16, 2006 PEOPLE REAL ESTATE Q&A Atherton man wins $4.1 million by Gloria Darke How to buffer heated negotiations

at World Series of Poker in Vegas Q. Can’t we sell our house or buyers represent themselves, on our own and save money they can become unnecessarily The saying “you have to spend money to make since 2000, the Associated Press reported. by not paying commission? emotional during the heat of money” certainly applies to Atherton resident He outlasted all but two of the 8,773 players who — M.N. tough negotiations. When push Michael Binger. paid the $10,000 entry fee to play in the event. comes to shove, in the heat of Mr. Binger finished third in the No-Limit Texas He was knocked out of the event by the even- A. Yes, it is possible. a battle, runaway emotions Hold’em Main Event at the World Series of Poker tual winner, Jamie Gold of Mailbu, who won Keep this fact in mind. Only can lead to a poorly drafted in Las Vegas, taking home about $4.1 million. the $12 million grand prize. 15% of real estate sales occur agreement, unsatisfactory terms Mr. Binger has a Ph.D. in particle physics from Mr. Binger could not be reached for comment. without the services of a real and conditions or worse yet, a Stanford University, and has lived in Atherton — Rory Brown estate professional. Consider blown sale. this practice in mind. There is a very good reason why many Enlisting the expertise of seasoned realty professionals a seasoned realty professional Happy trails ahead for PV schools’ Ryder often have another Realtor offers buffer in disagreements. represent them in their own It gives you the best opportunity By Marjorie Mader transactions- gladly paying to produce the desired result, Almanac Staff Writer a justly earned commission. maintain objectivity during the The reason is simple. When negotiating process and keep hen Mary Ann Anderson Ryder retired inexperienced property sellers personalities out of it. last month, the Portola Valley School District lost not only its capable and W For answers to any questions you may have on real estate, you may e-mail me cheerful administrative assistant, but also the district’s official poet laureate. at [email protected] or call 462-1111, Alain Pinel Realtors. I also offer a free market Before her departure, she penned: analysis of your property. “I feel compelled to compose a rhyme After all, 22 years is a mighty long time I couldn’t end this long a run Without having some poetic fun.” She went on for seven more stanzas. “When I was hired in 1984, I had no idea of what was in store,” said the former teacher at Nueva School in Hillsborough. She made a smooth transition from the classroom to admin- istration, providing support to four superintendents, and recording minutes for more than 400 school board meetings. “Mary Ann has been a guiding and nurturing presence to generations of Portola Valley teachers, having participated in hiring every single teacher (except one) and administrator currently working in the district,” said Portola Valley trustees in their resolution honoring her. “She has always kept the interests of the children at the forefront.” They added, “Mary Ann’s wit, wisdom, guid- The Almanac/Marjorie Mader ance and sparkle will be sorely missed.” Mary Ann Anderson Ryder says “Thanks for For more than two decades, Ms. Anderson the Memory” after 22 years as the administrative Ryder has been the welcoming person greeting assistant to superintendents in the Portola Valley parents, visitors and prospective teachers in the School District. district office, which moved from an original classroom at Corte Madera to a portable building during the era of construction and, finally, She’s the lucky winner of a trip for two to Asia to the district office’s new digs at Corte Madera, — anywhere Japan Air Lines flies. complete with “indoor plumbing.” “I bought a $10 raffle ticket at the Internation- Her parting gift to the district was compiling al House’s annual spring fair in Berkeley to show its history during the past 22 years in a book support for I House, where my daughter works, and presenting it to trustees at her final board and then forgot about it,” she says. “I couldn’t meeting. She included articles and photos about believe I actually won.” the early community productions, parcel-tax She and her husband, Marc Ryder, are poring and bond elections, changes in leadership and over travel books and maps as they plan their achievements of the schools, teachers and stu- Asian tour, probably in October. The only stipu- dents. lation is that Tokyo must be the first stop. The trustees’ wishes for “wonderful adventures To keep busy, they are remodeling their home and much joy” in her retirement already are in Cupertino, enjoying a more leisurely pace and being fulfilled. babysitting the grandchildren. A Atherton incumbents face no opposition

With Atherton’s three City ■ ELECTION 2006 ahead with the general munici- Council incumbents facing no pal election on November 7. opposition in November, the The only chance for a con- council may decide to cancel the available four-year terms. At the tested Atherton City Council election. Wednesday, August 16 meet- election is if a write-in candidate Councilmen Alan Carlson, ing, the council agenda calls emerges. The filing period for Charles Marsala and Jerry Carl- for a discussion of appointing write-in candidates runs from son all filed to run for the three the three incumbents or going September 11 to October 24.

August 16, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 7 NEWS County may vote on eSlate machines in November election By Marion Softky in 1992 for $70,000. Almanac Staff Writer While the “Eagle” optical- scanning machines — which ext November 7, San the county has used from 1992 Mateo County voters — through June of this year — Nat least those who still like have been very popular, Mr. to cast a ballot at a precinct — will Slocum gave several reasons to confront new state-of-the-art dial- replace them before November. up, electronic voting machines. The Eagle machines do not The Board of Supervisors is meet new federal and state expected to approve on August requirements for serving people 15 the purchase of 2,100 eSlate with disabilities, Mr. Slocum voting machines from Hart said. They are also getting old, InterCivic of Austin, Texas. and the county no longer has a The eSlate voting system com- maintenance contract. Plus, they plies with new federal and state make elections very complex and laws, serves voters who have use huge amounts of paper. different abilities and languages, In June, for example, voter The Almanac/Marjan Sadoughi and provides a verifiable paper turnout was less than 37 percent, Jerry Carlson, an Atherton councilman, takes the new eSlate electronic voting machine for a spin. He tried trail, said Chief Elections Officer and more than half of county out one especially designed for people with disabilities during a recent demo by San Mateo County officials. Warren Slocum. “It’s the only voters voted absentee, said Elec- unit in the marketplace that tion Manager David Tom. But be a special machine for people Atherton Councilman Jerry county staff, the 2,200 poll work- meets all needs.” even though about 18 percent with disabilities. Carlson checked the machine ers, and the public to use the unfa- The new electronic voting of voters actually voted at one That special eSlate machine is out using earphones; he gave it a miliar machine. Classes will be system will cost $10.5 million. of 472 precincts, the county built lower to accommodate wheel good grade. “The verbal prompt going on from now to November, The federal and state govern- was required to provide paper chairs; it has earphones and Braille was really very good,” he said. and Mr. Slocum promised to pro- ments will provide $4.5 million ballots for 75 percent of the for people who can’t see well; and Before deciding on eSlate, the vide demonstrations at meetings, each, with the county making registered voters at each precinct easy jelly switches for people who county researched all four vot- street fairs, and other events. up the rest. Since 1992, the elec- — including different ballots for can’t manipulate the dial. There’s ing machines on the market, Mr. “It will still be accurate; it will tion department has saved up different communities in three even a “sip-and-puff” device for Slocum said. It worked with the still be quick,” he promised. $900,000, Mr. Slocum said. He languages. quadriplegic voters. Commission on Disabilities and To learn more or arrange a dem- expects the new system to save “The cost of printing ballots we “For the first time, people with checked the machines out at six onstration, call 363-1884, or e- the county $1.2 million over couldn’t use was $175,000,” said disabilities can vote privately and Universal Voting Centers for the mail: [email protected] with a four years. Mr. Tom. “18 percent of voters independently — like everybody June election. request. More information is avail- actually showed up, so guess what? else,” said Mr. Slocum. The next step is to train the able on shapethefuture.org. A Hard choice Almost 60 percent of the ballots we “This was a very hard decision, ordered had to be destroyed.” said Mr. Slocum at an August 8 Groups to protest new voting machines briefing in Redwood City. New voting experience. San Mateo County has a histo- The new eSlate machines don’t While the San Mateo County new machines, or the electronic new system will save paper a “red ry of getting early and accurate use touch-screen technology. Board of Supervisors seems voting system in general. herring,” and contested the idea returns in its elections; over the You dial in your vote on a wheel poised to approve eSlate vot- He said that his organiza- that the current system doesn’t years it has been one of the first a little like an iPod. It is easy to ing machines August 15, some tion would protest the hearing serve the disabled well. Instead, California counties to produce change your vote if you make a people oppose the plan, arguing tomorrow along with the Raging Mr. Turner cited “clerk conve- results in national elections. mistake. And you get another that the machines have not yet Grannies, a local activist organi- nience” as the main reason for the From the 1960s until 1992, the chance to check — and to change been determined to be secure. zation, at 8:30 a.m. at 400 County new system. massive Shoup voting machines — the paper ballot that is record- Open Voting Consortium Center (corner of Bradford Street Mr. Turner is urging the board to were fast and accurate. The elec- ed along with your vote. spokesman Brent Turner said and Hamilton Avenue) in Red- wait until it learns more about the tion building at Tower Road was There will be three-to-five that conversations he’s had with wood City. A hearing will be held system’s accuracy, and until both built to house the 800-pound eSlate machines in each of the board members have convinced for public comments, starting at the state and national legislatures machines, Mr. Slocum said; county’s 480 precincts next him that they haven’t thoroughly around 9 a.m. review pending legislation to make 1,537 of them were sold for scrap November. One of these will investigated the reliability of the He called the argument that the the system more transparent.

VOTE balancing act. That really disap- Winkler, Duboc to seek re-election continued from page 5 pointed me.” ■ Incumbents join candidates to do so. majority’s political opponents “You just can’t fight the slate Both incumbents are part of a have speculated that the three tion to the current majority aren’t politics,” said Ms. Johnck. “Can- John Boyle as only three-member council majority candidates will run as a slate. diluted among four or more candi- didates have been chosen and candidates to file that includes Mayor Nicholas dates, according to Mr. Schmidt. blessed, and that’s that.” Jellins. The three council mem- Opposing candidates Parks and recreation commis- Bayfront Park advocate Ms. papers. bers vote together on major Three other candidates have sioners Richard Cline and Hey- Lasensky, who announced in April By Rory Brown issues and all of their seats are up taken out candidate papers, but ward Robinson, and Linfield she intended to run for council, Almanac Staff Writer for re-election. have yet to file them as of 1 p.m., Oaks resident Vincent Bressler, said she failed to garner support Mayor Jellins will not seek August 14. won the groups’ support. from the two groups, which par- ncumbents Mickie Winkler another term. The deadline to file candidate Mr. Schmidt was rejected as a tially led to her decision not to and Lee Duboc have publicly The three council members papers is August 16. slate candidate largely because run. Iannounced they will seek re- were elected in 2002. The candidates are parks com- he isn’t staunchly opposed to “It was clear that I had very little election. Although Mr. Boyle has not missioners Richard Cline and further development in Menlo support from these groups, and if Both council members have explicitly aligned himself with Heyward Robinson and Linfield Park, he said. I ran, I was going to be labeled a filed their candidate papers, Ms. Winkler and Ms. Duboc, he Oaks resident Vincent Bressler. “It’s no longer about picking spoiler,” she said. “This is slate joining Transportation Com- said he often agrees with their For election news updates, the best candidate,” he said. “It’s politics — you can’t just run as an missioner John Boyle as the only decisions, and some of the current check AlmanacNews.com. A evolved into this calculation — a individual in this city.” A

8 ■ The Almanac ■ August 16, 2006 NEWS Swimming at Burgess Pool Menlo native, 25, killed in crash Your place for fitness, fun, and family. ■ • Open swim and laps Driver arrested on suspicion of drunken Sunday. Ms. Binkerd was arrest- 7 days per week driving in Santa Barbara accident. ed on suspicion of drunken driving, police said. • Lessons year-round Alexander James Baer, 25, who A Mass to celebrate his life was for kids of all levels was born and raised in Menlo See obituary on Alexander James held Monday at the Church of Baer on Page 20. • Fitness, swim teams, Park, was killed early Sunday the Nativity, 210 Oak Grove Ave. water polo, triathlon morning, August 7, in a head- Ford Focus driven by Jessica Rose in Menlo Park. • PLUS picnics and on auto crash in Santa Barbara, Binkerd, 22, of Santa Barbara. Mr. Baer, who was a senior at Friday Movie Nights! where he was a student. The car crashed into another the University of California at Mr. Baer, who moved from car on Highway 154, authorities Santa Barbara, attended Nativity, Menlo Park to Santa Barbara six said. Mr. Baer was pronounced Ladera and Hillview schools in Program info, hours, years ago, was a passenger in a dead at the scene about 2 a.m. Menlo Park. Menlo Swim and Sport directions, prices and more: 501 Laurel St., Menlo Park, CA 94025 650-328-SWIM (7946) www.menloswim.com Portola Valley youth in coma after crash A 17-year-old Portola Valley is a juvenile, had “severe neurologi- him that he had just left a party boy is in Stanford Hospital in cal damage (and) internal injuries” where he had been drinking, Limited Summertime Savings!!! critical condition after the 2001 and was in an induced coma, Lt. that he was traveling at about Mitsubishi Eclipse he was riding Jones said. 70 mph, and that they were in overturned at about 2:45 a.m. Mr. Hughes managed to extract headed to Menlo Park when he Saturday morning, August 12, on himself and call in the accident, lost control of the car on a curve Portola Road near Old La Honda Lt. Jones said. Medics from the and overturned in a culvert. The Road in Woodside, said Lt. Ken Woodside Fire Protection Dis- speed limit in that section of Jones of the San Mateo County trict found the passenger uncon- Portola Road is 40 mph. Sheriff’s Office. scious inside the car, which was A test for alcohol in Mr. Hughes’ The driver of the car, Portola lying on to its roof in a dry creek blood is in progress. If the test The Hilarious Celebration of Valley resident Justin Hughes, 18, bed. Both the driver and the pas- comes back with a blood-alcohol Women and The Change! suffered a broken ankle and a senger were wearing seat belts, Lt. level higher than the legal limit of broken wrist from the accident, Lt. Jones said. 0.08 percent, charges for felony Jones said. The passenger, whose In recalling the incident, Lt. drunken driving could be filed, name was not released because he Jones said that Mr. Hughes told Lt. Jones said. Buy One, Get One ‘No contest’ plea in fatal bike accident “Grab the gals and have a blast! You'll 1/2 Off!* The Colorado driver whose lane and struck Ms. Mazzei, leave the theater (Regular ticket price$46.50) car killed bicyclist and Menlo Teachers organize bike ride in memory who died of her injuries. of Michelle Mazzei. Page 18 ready to conquer *Must mention code SUM06-HALF. Cannot be Park teacher Michelle Mazzei, Mr. Thornborough is set to used for already discounted seats, previously 34, last fall has pleaded no con- appear again before Commis- the world.” purchased tix or other offers. Service fees apply. Valid for weeknight shows thru 9/8/06. test to misdemeanor vehicular out gross negligence, carries sioner Kathleen McKenna on - Jan Wahl, KRON-TV/KCBS Radio manslaughter. a penalty of up to one year in October 10 for sentencing. Theodore Charles Thornbor- county jail. Ms. Mazzei was a popular ough, 69, appeared in court in On October 2, 2005 Mr. fourth-grade teacher at Oak FOR TICKETS CALL 415 433-3939 Redwood City on Friday, August Thornborough was driving on Knoll School in Menlo Park. For Groups (15+) call 866.464.2088 • www.tix.com • www.menopausethemusical.com 11, and entered his plea. By doing westbound Woodside Road near She was taking a Sunday morn- THEATRE 39 at PIER 39 San Francisco Beach Street and The Embarcadero so, he avoids a jury trial. the on-ramp to northbound ing bike ride along a route on The charge, misdemeanor Interstate 280 when his Mer- Woodside Road that she had vehicular manslaughter with- cedes veered into the bicycle ridden many times before. Litton inducted into whitewater hall of fame )NTERNATIONAL3CHOOLOFTHE0ENINSULA Wild rivers have been with (650) 251-8519 • www.istp.org us since the beginning, but preserving such rivers for their scenic and recreational values, and running them in rafts, ,!.'5!'%#,!33%3 canoes and kayaks did not catch &OR!DULTSAND#HILDREN on until the 20th century. In honor of Portola Valley resident Martin Litton’s early !DULT,ANGUAGE roles in both protecting and /PEN(OUSE navigating such rivers, Mr. Lit- ton has been named as one of !UGUST six new 2006 inductees to the !- 0- International Whitewater Hall ,AURA,ANE of Fame in McHenry, Mary- 0ALO!LTO land. Among the accomplishments that led to Mr. Litton’s induction *;HAO;A?!F;MM?M Martin Litton is honored for his early role in protecting and navigating wild rivers. @IL!BCF>L?H include helping to block >OFN*;HAO;A?!F;MM?M construction of several dams in western states in the 1950s through the 1990s. then-little-known beauty of • Classes Begin the Week of September 11 • and 1960s, and running rafting During this time, Mr. Litton the canyon at river level. He • Offering Arabic, French, Mandarin, Italian and more • trips on the Colorado, Snake, also produced an 85-minute celebrated his 80th birthday by • Year-Long After-School Program for Children • Salmon, Grande Rhonde, Owyee film on the Grand Canyon rowing a dory 277 miles through and Green rivers from the 1970s and lectured widely about the the Grand Canyon. • 14-week Evening Session for Adults •

August 16, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 9 NEWS New cleanup efforts at contaminated site ■ Public comment ■ MENLO BRIEFS sought on Tyco cleanup. Public comment is sought on to disaster preparedness. efforts to decontaminate soil The discussion is scheduled for and groundwater at the Tyco Saturday, August 19, from 10 a.m. Electronics Corp. site in Menlo to 11:30 a.m., in the Menlo Park Park. council chambers at the Civic Woodside Town Manager Studies conducted in 1989 and Center, between Laurel and Alma Susan George lights 2003 revealed contaminated soil streets. a statement of the and ground water beneath the Mr. Ruskin is a member of the town’s debt on August Tyco site, located in the city’s joint legislative committee on 2 at a small “Burn the Mortgage” party. industrial zone at 300 Bohannon emergency preparedness. Dr. The Almanac/Marjan Sadoughi The contamination is largely Chamber seeks nominees due to the long-time manufactur- for Golden Acorn Awards ing of plastics and electrical insu- The 34th annual Golden Burn, baby, burn: Debt paid off lation products at the site, accord- Acorn Awards banquet will The town of Woodside, unlike ■ pagne and a very small bonfire ing to the California Department be held Thursday, September most of us, is debt-free. WOODSIDE at a “Burn the Mortgage” party of Toxic Substances Control. 21, at the Stanford Park Hotel. Town Manager Susan George held behind town hall. Although more than 5,000 The Menlo Park Chamber of said Woodside had racked up we still have checks left!” men- She said clearing the debt has cubic yards of contaminated Commerce, which sponsors the more than $4.5 million in tality, she said. been a team effort, and thanked soil have been removed from event, is looking for nomina- short- and long-term debt The town has been paying council members for their strong the site since 2000, and a cap tions for two individuals, one by the time she was hired in it off ever since, to the tune of commitment to sound financial was constructed to contain firm, and one nonprofit orga- 1993. $243,000 a year. management. further contamination, long- nization to be honored at the The debt was thanks to two The Woodside Town Coun- “It’s a real good feeling,” Ms. term measures are necessary to banquet. major projects — building cil recently voted to use $1.9 George said as she watched the decrease health risks to humans Categories include: educa- the Town Hall complex and million in cash reserves to pay document smolder. and animals, according to the tor/public service (individual), buying property for the park- off early the remainder of the Councilman Paul Goeld state agency. community service (individu- ing district — as well as poor debt. Town officials and staff quipped that the $1.9 million The state is recommending al), business excellence, and a bookkeeping and a “What do celebrated on August 2, the day was “more than some of our citi- the installation of five wells nonprofit organization. you mean we’re out of money, the check cleared, with cham- zens spend on wine in a year.” near the capped area of the Those nominated should have site to monitor the soil and made significant contributions groundwater, periodic inspec- to or a major impact on Menlo Sheriff in race for health-care district board tions of the cap, and restrict- Park. Nomination forms are By Renee Batti ■ ELECTION 2006 Mr. Horsely said he was asked ing future use of the site to available at the Chamber of Almanac News Editor to run for the board by someone commercial and/or industrial Commerce office at 1100 Merrill The entry of Mr. Horsely into affiliated with the district. He’s purposes only. St. in Menlo Park. heriff Don Horsley will be the race is seen as a major threat hoping to unseat Mr. Hickey, Comments on the cleanup on San Mateo County’s bal- to board member Hickey, a Liber- whom he calls “a character” but process can be e-mailed to lot this November, but not tarian who for years regularly ran criticizes as “disruptive of the [email protected]. Comments Candidates seminar S on the computer as a candidate for the post he’s for public office — then stunned process.” must be sent by September 11. held for the last 13 years. Instead, local political observers by finally “Jack is opposed to pretty For more information, call the Candidates for election and he’s running against three incum- winning a race four years ago. He much everything,” Mr. Horsley Department of Toxic Substances others who want to learn about bents for a spot on the Sequoia is now completing his first and said, referring to Mr. Hickey’s Control at (510) 540-3910. the mechanics of running for Healthcare District board. only term of public office as a record of being the only “no” office can get a free audio file of The filing period for the race member of the Sequoia board. vote on most significant deci- Ruskin to discuss a “Candidate Seminar” at the San closed August 11. Incumbents Art When he ran for the board sions made by the board. disaster preparedness Mateo County Elections Office Faro, Jack Hickey and John Oblak in 2002, Mr. Hickey said his Mr. Hickey is strongly opposed Web site, www.shapethefuture. also qualified to run for the three goal was to dissolve the district, to a number of standard practices State Assemblyman Ira org. You can hear the 90-minute Ruskin, D-Redwood City, is open seats on the five-member which taxes property owners of the board, such as awarding seminar by clicking the “Can- board, which co-owns and helps in Menlo Park, Atherton, Por- nonprofit health groups in the scheduled to lead a discussion didate Seminar” link at www. on legislative issues pertaining to oversee Sequoia Hospital in tola Valley, Woodside, Redwood county, in addition to Sequoia shapethefuture.org. Redwood City. City, San Carlos and Belmont. Hospital, millions of dollars in grants in support of their programs. “I’ve always advocated private philanthropy” and opposed The #1 Cadillac Service Center on the Peninsula the use of public money for support of nonprofit groups, he said. Mr. Horsley will be leaving his Now Open Saturdays 9-5 post as sheriff at the end of the Call for an year, and will be succeeded by Undersheriff Greg Munks. But he appointment said he was interested in remain- ing in public office, in service to a hospital that “has benefited the community for many years.” Art Faro, the former CEO of Sequoia Hospital, is running for Exclusive Pickup his third term on the board. John PUTNAM CADILLAC Oblak, president of Notre Dame de v and Delivery Service California Dr Namur University in Belmont, was 193 California Dr., Burlingame nsula A MondayThrough Friday ONLY. Call For Details. Peni appointed to a two-year board E l Ca mino Re term in late 2002 by the county Jacob Lozano 650-342-9500 x111 or [email protected] al 650-342-9500 Board of Supervisors. A

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August 16, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 11 Woodside fire Chief Mike Fuge describes the noisy diesel pumps that cost him some of his hearing.

hen 19-year-old Mike Fuge set out calls their granddad went on,” Chief Fuge says. district runs an ambulance out if its main to get hired by the Woodside Fire In a profession that’s fiercely attached to its station, Chief Fuge says. Protection District in 1964, two traditions, firefighters also have to constantly The firefighter/paramedics were usually things helped clinch the deal for him, he says adapt and upgrade their skills as technology, the first emergency personnel to arrive at — he lived within a five-minute drive of the science and medicine evolve. This dichotomy calls, and in 1999, San Mateo County adopt- Wfire station, and he had good penmanship. is very apparent at the Woodside fire district, ed the system countywide, working out a Living nearby was mandatory, since fire- which is often among the first to embrace deal with the AMR ambulance company and fighters spent every other day off on call by new life-saving technologies and other inno- other fire departments. the telephone. The nice handwriting was a vations, but where firefighters also hold on “Paramedics were probably the biggest bonus, since firefighters recorded all their fiercely to the customs that make the job achievement for the district, because of its calls by hand in the logbook, and the chief more of a way of life than just a profession. location. That was a real problem, waiting at the time, John Volpiano, was a stickler for Fires make up just a small fraction of the for an ambulance and for paramedics to get good penmanship, Chief Fuge says. calls these days, and since the events of 9/11, here,” he says. Forty-two years later, after working his firefighters have had to learn how to respond Having firefighter/paramedics take the way up through the ranks to become chief to all kinds of threats, including weapons of emergency calls cut response times, espe- in 1992, he has one key piece of advice for mass destruction. cially for people in the more remote areas his colleagues after he retires on August 31: When he joined Woodside fire, CPR was of the Woodside fire district, which covers “Keep using the logbook. I told the guys, just starting to be used, Chief Fuge says. Woodside, Portola Valley and adjacent unin- ‘Don’t ever lose that.’” By the time he became chief, firefighters corporated areas like Los Trancos Woods Sure, the fire station has computerized records, had emergency medical technician training, and Emerald Hills. but there’s something about those thick stacks of and under his leadership, Woodside became “He was instrumental in getting the paramedic leather-bound logs that tell the story of the fire one of the first departments in the county program up and running,” says Capt. Kevin district in a way that no print-out ever could. to staff every fire engine with a firefighter/ Bianchini, a 25-year Woodside firefighter. “Every now and then families come in and paramedic. Now, about 60 percent of their Peter Berger, an 18-year member of the want to look through the logbooks and see what calls are for emergency medical help, and the district’s board of directors, credits Chief

12 ■ The Almanac ■ August 16, 2006 Fuge with a long list of accomplishments during his tenure: numerous pub- Cover Story lic education programs; the Citizens Emergency Response and Preparedness Program, or CERPP; the caused a roof fire about a annual flu shot clinic; building the new mile away. station 19 in Emerald Hills; the multi- The fire was the big- agency wildland fire drills; and getting gest in the county since emergency generators for Woodside and the automatic deploy- Portola Valley’s town halls. ment plan went into “We have one of the most knowl- effect in 1999, Chief Fuge edgeable and best wildland fire forces says, and it showed how around,” he says. effectively it worked. It wasn’t always that way. When a huge Originally designed to wildfire struck the Arastradero Road respond to medical calls area in the early 1980s, firefighters from as part of the county San Mateo and Santa Clara counties paramedic agreement, discovered that they couldn’t even com- it is also used for fire municate with each other while they suppression. County were battling the blaze, Chief Fuge says. dispatchers will auto- “We have this huge fire going on with 13 matically deploy the homes burning, and we’ve got two inde- nearest fire engine to an pendent operations going on because there emergency, regardless of is no coordination between the Santa Clara jurisdiction, throughout County and the San Mateo County units,” San Mateo County. Chief Fuge recalls. “It really showed us our Chief Fuge called at serious weaknesses, so the two counties got the Albion fire “the together, and we started developing wild- low point and the high land training exercises that got huge.” point” of his career. Chief Fuge (in white shirt) is surrounded by firefighters from San Carlos, Belmont, Redwood City and As a result, the two counties developed “I thought, ‘This is the Foster City during an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) training session in Woodside. Local firefighters an annual wildland fire drill that kept one we’ve been dread- get to know each other well, because they train together and often work together at emergency calls, growing in popularity. Chief Fuge, then a ing,’ and that was the low thanks to mutual aid agreements. battalion chief and training officer, rep- point,” he says. “And the resented San Mateo County agencies in high point was, a lady lost organizing the drills. At its peak, as many her roof, but that was it. The success was community spirit, whether rescuing the Fuge had to admit that most of them were as 55 agencies participated in the three- incredible. I felt so good, I don’t think I proverbial cat-stuck-in-a-tree or throwing dead. day exercise, Chief Fuge says. Other fire slept for two days, I was so happy.” the annual holiday open house. Another “That’s the sad part, a lot of them died departments came for the training — and When Chief Fuge was appointed suc- key accomplishment was creating a well- young because their lungs were shot,” he the catered Cajun food — and Woodside cessor to Chief Art Kitto in 1992, he ness program for firefighters, he says. says. benefited by learning how to move large took over a highly regarded department About 10 years ago, an off-duty volumes of resources, he says. that was one of the best in the region, if firefighter died of a heart attack, Mr. “After the Oakland hills fire, they invit- not the state, Mr. Berger says. Lombardo says. “That really bugged ed us to come over and work with them “Mike said he knew that a pretty high Mike, and he always wanted to do so they could learn how to do the same bar had been set for him, and within something to change that.” type of thing,” Chief Fuge says. “We felt it months he’d reached that bar and sur- Now, instead of a battered collec- was kind of an honor that there was this passed it,” he says. tion of free weights, the fire station’s recognition of the training program that “He’s determined when he wants to training room holds a rainbow array we developed.” get things done, but he’s very articulate of giant gymnastic balls, as well as Proof of the program’s success came when when he wants to be convincing,” Mr. more sophisticated equipment, and a wildfire broke out near downtown Wood- Berger says. “As the chief, he’s more of a personal trainers come in regularly side on Albion Avenue in August 2002. leader than a manager.” to coach firefighters on nutrition The blaze, sparked by a eucalyptus branch Battalion Chief Rick Lombardo, who and training regimens. falling on power lines, burned more than 10 joined Woodside fire in 1975, credits Chief Chief Fuge says when he started acres and several outbuildings, and embers Fuge with putting a renewed focus on to suffer from asthma a few years ago, he was so impressed with his improvement after working with a local personal trainer that he brought her in to work with all the other firefighters. Back when he started out, firefighters In this 1970 photo, Mike Fuge (at the head of were a lot more care- the line) poses with his Woodside fire colleagues. less with their health, Back then, firefighters wore coveralls during the Chief Fuge says. Every- day while they cleaned fire engines, the station body smoked cigarettes, and the equipment, and didn’t put on their nobody thought about uniforms until 5 p.m., he says. ear-protection while running noisy equipment, and inhaling smoke Things are different now. Not only have was preferable to using the there been dramatic improvements in cumbersome — and uncool safety equipment, but its use is no longer — air tanks, he says. optional. As a result, firefighters “He was very progressive, a lot more tended to not live long progressive than his predecessors,” says enough to enjoy their Ron Puccinelli who retired last year after retirements. 48 years with Woodside fire. He recalls When asked if he keeps meeting Chief Fuge as “a young kid.” Brotherly love: Capt. Dan Abrams of the Redwood City Fire Department wrestles Chief Fuge into a in contact with any of the “My first impression of him was that he hug during a break in an EMT training session for county firefighters. firefighters he worked with when he first started, Chief See MIKE FUGE, page 14

August 16, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 13 Fire chief worked his way up through ranks Cover Story efits,” he says. “I was really involved with my kids when they were going to school. I was the first man to be awarded Room Mother of the Year at Selby Lane School.” And the bond that forms between firefighters on the same shift, who train together, eat together, live together and fight fires together, can’t be broken, he says. “It really is a lifetime relationship, and that’s the part I just loved,” Chief Fuge says. “They call it the brotherhood, and it’s really true.” Those bonds extend to firefighters from all over the world that he’s met, says Chief Fuge. One of his best friends is an Australian firefighter he met at the biennial World Police and Fire Games in 1987. Chief Fuge, who competes in archery, says they call each other weekly A brass bell is passed among members of the San Mateo County Fire Chiefs Association, and already have plans to meet up at next honoring the chief who has served the longest. When Chief Fuge retires at the end of the year’s games in Adelaide, Australia. month, the bell will leave Woodside and go to Colma. There’s another reason they call it the brotherhood: Just like siblings, fire- MIKE FUGE retires, he is looking forward to going on fighters tease each other, and give each continued from page 13 more off-road jeeping trips and convening other nicknames, some of which can’t A curio cabinet filled with replica fire engines the regular officers’ meetings in a local be printed in a family newspaper. and fire stations is the centerpiece of Chief was definitely a people-person,” Mr. Puc- coffee shop instead of at the fire station. Chief Fuge got plenty of ribbing Fuge’s office. Chief Fuge is reflected in the cinelli says. “He’s a great family man; his As for Chief Fuge himself, he says one for his short stature, Mr. Lombardo cabinet’s mirror and glass door. family has always been his pride and joy.” of the downsides of being a chief has been says. Of course, that doesn’t mean he didn’t working a regular Monday-through-Fri- “We used to use him for getting into work, and strolling down every aisle when occasionally goof off. “We’ve had a lot of day schedule. tight spots,” he says. “A lot of those big he goes to Costco. Of course, there are his good times together,” Mr. Puccinelli says. “When you’re on shift, it creates some estates had basements or attics with three children and grandchildren to spend He recalls one time in the late 1960s problems, but there are also a lot of ben- very low ceilings.” time with, his favorite archery course at when the young firefighter was on call and Despite his height, when he retires, Huddart Park beckons, and he has hunt- supposed to stay next to his telephone. Chief Fuge is leaving some big shoes to ing trips planned with retired Woodside “We stretched the rules a little bit,” fill, Mr. Lombardo says. Battalion Chief Bob Nahmens. Mr. Puccinelli says. “We were over on Woodside Battalion Chief Armando But there will still be a fire-fighting the coast and Mike ended up saving Muela, who heads the district’s emer- Fuge in San Mateo County. One of Chief somebody’s life — a person was drown- gency medical services, will become the Fuge’s two sons is a firefighter with the ing in the surf. It got written up in the new chief. Central County Fire Department. newspaper, and when the chief saw it, he Chief Fuge says he’s looking forward to “That’s my connection, so it makes it a looked up (Mike’s) days off. I don’t think enjoying some of life’s simpler pleasures, little bit easier to retire, knowing that I’ll he ever got in trouble for it, though.” things he hasn’t had time for since becom- be able to visit his department and get Mr. Puccinelli says that once Chief Fuge ing chief, like washing his car, doing yard involved in what they do,” he says. A

More elbow room in store at new Emerald Hills station Woodside firefighters in Emerald Hills are going to have a bigger, better fire station soon. With a target completion date of September 15, Woodside Fire Protection District’s new station 19 at the corner of Wilmington Way and Jefferson Avenue will replace the much smaller station on California Way. Besides giving the station’s female firefighters some privacy with separate bedrooms and bathrooms, it provides a community meeting room, something that is sorely needed, said Chief Mike Fuge. The district’s fire marshal, fire prevention unit and CERPP training (disaster training for residents) will relocate to the Emerald Hills station, he said, solving a space-crunch in the main Woodside Road station. The station project was seven years in the making, in part because the property was tied up in an eminent-domain lawsuit over its value. Once ground was finally broken, construction was delayed by this year’s lengthy rainy season. Chief Fuge said he’s promised to attend the celebration when the station is finally completed.

Woodside fire’s new station is nearing completion.

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August 16, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 15 NEWS Cingular Wireless again denied antenna permit Cingular Wireless will have agreed with the neighbors’ con- to go to the San Mateo County cerns, voting 4-1 against the Board of Supervisors to seek permit in the first meeting. approval to raise an antenna The vote went 3-1 in the second www.Draegers.com tower at a Menlo Park fire sta- meeting as one of the commis- tion by 11 inches. sioners was absent, said County “The National Leader In Wine and Spirits Retailing” The San Mateo County Plan- Contract Planner Kevin Guy. ning Commission presented fac- The permit would have tual findings at its August 9 allowed Cingular to extend the meeting, backing up its decision 59-foot, 8-inch communication Summer Wine Sale! to deny a permit for the tower. tower and antennas to 71 feet at Several neighbors objected to it, the fire station at 3322 Alameda questioning the need for the tower, de las Pulgas. its aesthetic qualities, and their risk Cingular has until August 23 for the effects of radiation. to appeal the decision to the 20% OFF The Planning Commission Board of Supervisors. ALL IMPORTED WINES! Four local special districts August 16-29 under review by LAFCO By Marion Softky Almanac Staff Writer and Blue Oaks in Portola Valley, until April 2005, when it sold its ext week, a low-profile water system to the California but powerful govern- Water Service Co. Nment agency will review In May, LAFCO reviewed the the operations and services of services provided by the district, four obscure special districts and suggested it consider dissolv- that provide services to local ing, since it collects taxes, and communities. no longer provides water. On the Save on the Finest French Bordeaux, Burgundy, The Local Agency Formation agenda for August 16 is a decision Commission (LAFCO) will hold on the sphere of influence. This Champagne, Italian, German, Australian & Others! a public hearing Wednesday, has been zero since 1985 because August 16, at 2:30 p.m. to review LAFCO believes other agencies services and sphere of influ- could perform its services. Save Up to 20% when you purchase 12 or more ence for the San Mateo County David Smernoff, president of Harbor District, the San Mateo the water board, said he hopes bottles of any imported wine. Sale applies to 750ml County Resource Conservation LAFCO will give the district District, the Skyline County a sphere of influence corre- bottles only. Already reduced yellow-tagged wines are Water District, and the Los sponding to the area it serves. Trancos County Water District. He noted the district provides not included. We stock over 3,000 of the world's finest The meeting will be held very local services, such as in the Board of Supervisors water conservation, emergency wines, hand selected. Supplies are limited to stock on Chambers at 400 County Cen- preparedness, and management hand and all wines are sold on a first-come, first-served ter, at the corner of Hamilton of half a dozen acres and two and Bradford streets in Red- small lakes. “We think we have basis. Sorry, we cannot hold wine for future purchase wood City. valuable services to provide,” he Formed in 1963, LAFCO over- said. “We are very efficient and and delivery is extra during the sale. Wine Stewards on sees changes of boundaries and very local.” services of government agencies. Martha Poyatos, executive duty 10-7 every day. Its mission is to prevent urban officer for LAFCO, noted that sprawl and promote efficient and even a zero sphere of influence Draeger’s Markets, 3 locations: orderly growth of urban services. does not cause the agency to A major question before LAF- dissolve. There has to be an 1010 University Drive CO will be the future sphere of application for dissolution filed influence of the Los Trancos by either a public agency, voters, Menlo Park County Water District. The or property owners within the 650-324-7739 tiny government agency pro- district, she said. vided water to 278 customers in For information and staff 342 First Street the rural communities of Los reports, go to www.sanmateo- Trancos Woods, Vista Verde, lafco.org. A Los Altos 650-948-4425 Free repairs for low-income homes 222 E. Fourth Avenue Rebuilding Together Peninsula National Rebuilding Day, slated San Mateo is now accepting applications for for April 28, 2007. free home repairs and renova- To qualify you must own 650-685-3725 tions on low-income homes and and live in your home and be community centers. Application low-income. You and any of deadline is October 1. your able-bodied family must s r r TM RTP does cleanup, painting, work alongside the volunteers. and minor repairs. The work is To apply, call the RTP office at Open Every Day 7a.m.-10p.m done in one day by volunteers on 366-6597.

16 ■ The Almanac ■ August 16, 2006 NEWS Helicopters fighting West Nile virus over lakes and marshes A helicopter will be hover- Ms. Peavey reminds people to ing over Searsville Lake and its get rid of standing water around marshes on Wednesday, August their homes where mosquitoes 16, dropping granules of a lar- might breed. vicide designed to kill mosquito People who are having prob- larvae as part of a program to lems with mosquitoes and being combat West Nile virus by reduc- bitten should call the district at ing mosquito populations. 344-8592. The helicopter will be back on People who find dead birds, September 5, September 27, and especially, blue jays and crows, Photo courtesy of Women’s High Tech Coalition October 18. should also call the district. “We While birds infected with West definitely want to hear about Women in high-tech Nile virus have been found this dead birds,” Ms. Peavey said. The Women’s High Tech Coalition partnered with the California Women’s Caucus for a recent meeting year in Santa Clara, Alameda and “But they have to be fresh.” with state legislators at the Atherton home of Jillian-Manus Salzman. From left, are Carol Henton, Marin counties, only one infected Dead birds may be reported to vice president of the Information Technology Association of America; Assemblywoman Rebecca Cohn, bird has turned up in San Mateo the district, or to the state’s West D-San Jose; Jillian-Manus Salzman, publisher and philanthropist; state Sen. Elaine Alquist, D-San Jose, County. An infected crow was Nile hotline at 877-WNV-BIRD. District 13; and Leslie Bar-Ness, field representative for Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. found in Moss Beach in April, For more information, visit said Chindi Peavey, chief vector smcmad.org. ecologist for the county Mosquito the Bite” campaign to combat serious symptoms if they get active; DEET is an effective insect Abatement District. “So far, it’s Free mosquito packets West Nile virus, the county West Nile virus. repellents; dress in long sleeves been real quiet,” she said. health department will hand “There is no cure or available and long pants if you’re going to The granules dropped to con- for seniors at county fair out free packets containing vaccine at this point,” said Cath- be where mosquitoes are active; trol mosquitoes are about the size Seniors who visit the San Mateo mosquito repellent, wipes, and erine Sallenave, assistant county doors and windows should have of coarse sand and contain bacte- County Fair on Tuesday, August informational brochures on heath officer. tight-fitting screens. ria specific to mosquitoes, accord- 15, (when all seniors over 62 will West Nile virus. She has these tips to avoid The fair is at the San Mateo ing to a district press release. The be admitted free) should be sure The health department is tar- mosquito bites: drain standing Event Center, 2495 Delaware St. material does not harm fish, birds to pick up a mosquito packet. geting seniors because people water; be careful at dusk and in San Mateo. For information, or other animals. As part of the county’s “Fight over 50 are more likely to develop dawn, when mosquitoes are most go to sanmateocountyfair.com.

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Call: 650 868 5995 or 650 543 3946 • Birthdays Holiday • Birthdays Anniversaries Holiday Parties Cruises * Weddings Weddings WOODSIDE I TALIANA Email: [email protected] Weddings • Birthdays • Anniversaries • Holiday Parties • Cruises * Weddings • Birthdays • Anniversaries • Holiday Parties August 16, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 17 NEWS OF LOCAL PEOPLE AND EVENTS IN THE COMMUNITY Teachers organize bike ride in memory of Michelle Mazzei Oak Knoll School teachers participants will receive a T- have organized the first Michelle shirt and water bottle. Riders Mazzei Memorial Family Bike may register online at active. Ride to honor the fourth-grade com, or pick up a form at the teacher who was killed in a school office. Early registra- bicycle accident October 2. tion is encouraged to enable the The family event takes off on organizers to order T-shirts for Sunday, September17, at 8 a.m. all participants. from Oak Knoll School, 1895 There’s still time to sign up Oak Knoll Lane in Menlo Park. as a sponsor for the ride. Spon- Riders will pedal along resi- sors’ names will be placed on dential streets, following a 1.5- the back of the T-shirts and mile loop one to four times. The Teacher Michelle Mazzei was fliers. For more information, route is the same one used for riding a bike on Woodside Road near check the school Web site: Oak Knoll’s annual Otter Run in I-280 when she was struck by a car. oakknollschool.org; or con- June. A junior bike path for little tact Karen Clancy at kclancy@ children will be set up in the play Mazzei’s life, energy and her mpscd.org or Noelle Gonsalves area behind the classrooms. love of the outdoors, they said. at [email protected]. The first winners of the Woodside Community Theatre Scholarship are Former students of Ms. Mazzei, Funds raised that are not Checks can be made out to Jamie Lease and Christian Taboada, recent high school grads. Oak Knoll students and their used for the event will go to the Environmental Volunteers, with families, colleagues and friends Michelle Mazzei Fund for Envi- the memo line stating “Michelle Two win scholarships from are invited to save the date and sign ronmental Education, established Mazzei Bike Ride”; they can be up for the ride, said teachers Karen at the Palo Alto-based nonprofit turned in at the Oak Knoll office Clancy and Noelle Gonsalves, who Environmental Volunteers. or mailed to Environmental Woodside Community Theatre are organizing the ride. Registration fee is $20 for Volunteers, 3921 East Bayshore The Woodside Community Applicants also need to plan to The event will honor Ms. adults and $10 for children; Road, Palo Alto, CA 94303. Theatre is giving back to the pursue theater or performing or community by handing out its visual arts in college. first scholarships to two local Both Jamie and Christian Seniors’ Day Tuesday at county fair high school seniors. plan to attend U.C. Irvine in Seniors, age 62 and up, will be will play for dancing on the amusements. Horse racing will Jamie Lease, a recent gradu- the fall. Jamie starred as Laurie admitted free Tuesday, August Examiner plaza stage. go on at Bay Meadows. ate of Canada Middle College, in “Oklahoma,” while Christian 15, on Seniors’ Day at the 72nd Admission will be free until 3 Fairgoers can avoid traffic and Woodside High graduate appeared in the chorus and, annual San Mateo County Fair. p.m. Thursday, August 17. and parking hassles by tak- Christian Taboada have each most recently, played the lion in The fair continues through Sun- The 72nd annual San Mateo ing SamTrans or Caltrain. won $500 scholarships. Woodside High’s “The Wiz.” day, August 20, at the San Mateo County Fair concludes on Sun- SamTrans routes stop on El “The money is coming from WCT’s next show is “Anything County Event Center, 2495 S. day, August 20, with a salute to Camino Real, a few blocks ticket sales,” said Mindy Bowles Goes,” coming up in November. Delaware St. in San Mateo. Mexico and Central America by away from the entrance to the of Woodside, a Woodside Com- Auditions start August 28. More Special activities at Cypress the La Preciosa musicians and fairgrounds. Caltrain provides munity Theatre producer. “We information will be posted on Hall include the “My Fair Lady” dancers from noon to 10 p.m. on daily service to the Hillsdale hope this becomes an annual woodsidetheatre.org. contest, now in its 27th year. the Celebrity Stage of Expo Hall. station, a short walk from the award so that we can encourage Television personality Jan Wahl During the day, other groups fairgrounds. For information kids in theater, and continue to will interview contestants before including Ballet Folklorico, will go to www.samtrans.com or bring theater to Woodside.” New book on a live audience and a panel of entertain on different stages. www.caltrain.com. To qualify for the scholarship, judges. “Seniors in Show Biz” will Throughout the fair there will Admission to the fair is $9 for applicants needed to either act Health Council entertain with solo, couple and be a wide range of activities, adults; and $7 for seniors, ages or work in one of WCT’s shows, Gail Drewes will sign copies of ensemble dancing, ranging from exhibits, celebrity and commu- 62 and up, and children, ages 6 which have included “Annie Get her book, “The First Fifty Years,” hula to tap. nity entertainment, food and to 12. For more information, go Your Gun,” “Kiss Me Kate,” and at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, August 15, At 3:30 p.m. the Union Band beverages, carnival rides and to sanmateocountyfair.com. “Oklahoma.” at Kepler’s bookstore, 1010 El Camino Real in Menlo Park. Deck Restoration and The book commemorating the Preserving Specialists 50-year history of the Children’s ATTENTION OWNERS Health Council is rich with Our state of the art system restores photographs, taken from CHC old wood to a nearly new look. The Auxiliary scrapbooks, of Health University Ford in Menlo Park and Palo Alto Council founder Dr. Esther Clark process includes stripping off any has closed. and others who were influential old stains and ﬁ nishes. It restores in founding the organization. the wood to its natural color and We Welcome Your Business. Based in Palo Alto, the Chil- seals it for years. • Warranty Services dren’s Health Council is a diag- ★ ★ nostic and treatment center for Free Estimates • Service Maintenance children facing developmental Pressure Washing • Body Shop • Parts and behavioral challenges. The book includes remem- All Surfaces brances written by many CHC Patios • Driveways • Walkways Auxiliary presidents. Refreshments will be served Tony Addy’s Pressure Washing at the book signing, a Kepler’s 800-546-WASH Grassroot Tuesday Night event. ( 9 2 7 4 ) 444 EL CAMINO REAL • MENLO PARK • CA • 94025-5241 • (650) 321-8030 For information, call 324-2330. 18 ■ The Almanac ■ August 16, 2006 COMMUNITY

John La Barbera, left, reads his life Thirty-eight young women made their debut at the Peninsula Debutante Ball. story in newspaper from “newsboy” A time for tradition at Peninsula Ball Austin Dressed in white formal first dance with their fathers, Patton, Ryan McCann, Brit- Yokley. gowns, 38 young women made they danced the night away tany Brown, Kristie Flatley, their debut on June 17 at the with their escorts to the music Kathryn Molitor, Ashley Car- 46th annual Peninsula Ball. of Dick Bright’s orchestra. lisle, Lauren Evans, Melissa He’s 100 and still dancing The annual event was held Anne Englert of Atherton and Mordell, Molly Troedson, Lexi at Palo Alto’s Crowne Plaza Sue Davidson of Redwood City Boutacoff, Michelle Bradford, John La Barbera of Ms. La Barbera died in 2001. Cabana to benefit Family and were ball chairmen. Dorothy Jessie Foley, Melissa Irvine, Atherton celebrates As a young husband and father Children’s Services. Cartan of Atherton, a longtime Sarah King, Sarah Montgom- his first century in the 1930s, Mr. La Barbera began Proceeds from previous balls ball supporter and former chair- ery, Erica Swanson, Megan investing in rental properties. have contributed more than man, was honorary chairman. Teixeira, Carmen-Rosa Wis- byline>By Jane Knoerle After 38 years of barbering, he was $3 million to Family and This year’s debs are: Galen hart, Avantika Chitre, Caro- Almanac Lifestyles Editor able to retire at age 56 to develop Children’s Services. Avery, Brooke Badger, Rachel line Hurley, Cait Lighthouse, and manage his rental properties. The debs, all recent high Bolten, Katie Bouret, Becca Molly Magnuson, Nisha Dixit, ohn La Barbera celebrated his Several years ago, he and his wife school graduates, were pre- Carr, Rebecca Child, Christie Lisa Ferch, Ali Lycette, Shayne 100th birthday July 29 with a moved to Atherton to live with sented to friends and family. Clark, Mattie Goldman, Jen McGanney, Molly Doran, and Jparty for 115 guests at the their only daughter, Marie, and her After dancing the traditional Machlin, Layne Marr, Tori Chelsea Ono Horn. Sharon Heights Golf and Coun- husband, the late Dene Zahn. try Club, hosted by his daughter, At the July 29 festivities, Marie Zahn of Atherton. Mr. La Barbera’s party began Eagle Scout The guest of honor was the oldest with cocktails, followed by a person present. The youngest was sumptuous dinner, including project aids his great-great grandchild, 5-day- ravioli served with his daughter, old Sebastian Robert Finnegan. Marie’s special sauce. After filet homeless shelter FREE The birthday boy had a grand mignon, there was a tiramisu Jeffrey Bowman, 15, an Eagle time dancing with the ladies, cake with 100 candles. Cannoli Scout candidate in Boy Scout even taking a glass of champagne and biscotti, prepared as a gift Troop 222, ALIGNMENT for the birthday toasts. Letters of by baker Augustino Buonocore, sponsored congratulation were read from were also served. by the Menlo With Purchase of 4 Tires Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Charlie Bulanti and his orches- Park Presbyte- ($12000 Value) President George Bush and Laura tra played for dancing with Mr. rian Church, Bush. There was a papal blessing La Barbera’s relative, Chickie came up with from Pope Benedict XVI. Mitchell, sitting in at the piano. a project to Special guests were the Rev. Mr. La Barbera is no stranger provide hours Images Of Monsignor Steven Otellini, pas- to parties. The Zahns hosted of fun for kids Jeffrey Bowman 1/2 OFF tor of Church of the Nativity, many grand parties at Sharon living at Shel- Woodside With Purchase of 2 Tires and the church’s former pastor, Heights Golf and Country Club ter Network’s Beauty Salon the Rev. Donald DeAngelo, who for her parents’ wedding anni- Redwood Family House in Red- 3040 Woodside Road, Woodside, Ca. blessed the new baby. versaries, starting with their wood City. (650) 851-7103 FREE A highlight of the evening was 50th anniversary and ending He — and 17 local scouts who Tire Rotation the arrival of “newsboy” Austin with their 75th. helped him — designed and Yokley, dressed in old-fashioned Still in good health today, built a table-top Brio wooden (With This Ad) garb. His newspapers exclaimed Mr. La Barbera enjoys spending train layout for Shelter Net- We offer “Extra! Extra! John La Barbera time with his family, reading work’s transitional family hous- Family haircuts, Air Conditioned born in tent city months after novels and historical books, ing facility. Hair colors, Perms, Waiting Room earthquake rocks San Francisco.” and tending his tomato and The nonprofit Shelter Network Wedding & Formal Mr. La Barbera was born basil plants. He never misses provides transitional housing hair styles, Manicure • TIRES, • ALIGNMENTS August 3, 1906, in a “tent city” watching Lawrence Welk’s pro- and support services for home- • SHOCKS • BRAKES in Golden Gate Park, where his gram on public television on less families on the Peninsula. & Pedicure, Facials, & family lived after the quake and Saturday night. Body treatments. fires destroyed their home. When the Almanac asked Mr. ~ ~ ~ FIVE POINTS TIRE He grew up in San Francisco, La Barbera for his secret to lon- Now carrying IMPORTS INC. where he attended barber col- gevity and good health in an BUMBLE & BUMBLE YOUR SOURCE FOR lege and beauty school. He interview eight years ago, Mr. La worked with relatives at the Barbera said he never smoked or LOCAL INFORMATION 2115 Merit Barber Shop on 21st drank, except for an occasional Open: El Camino Real Street in San Francisco. glass of wine. He also advised a Tuesday – Friday Redwood City At 17 he eloped with his child- diet with “lots of good olive oil, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. hood sweetheart, Carolina Zisa. garlic and fresh vegetables.” At Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. They were married 77 years when 100, his advice still stands. A (Located near Buck’s Restaurant) 650.365.0280 August 16, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 19 COMMUNITY

■ OBITUARIES A news story on the crash that took Curt D. Hume sity and served for four years in the career. Dr. Hoff died in 1998. Two the life of Alexander James Baer is United Air Lines employee U.S. Air Force. He came to Cali- of her sons, John and Gary, carry Alexander Baer on Page 9. fornia to attend Hastings School on the family medical practice of UCSB student A memorial labyrinth walk will of Law. In 1964, he met his future obstetrics and gynecology with the in Santa Barbara. The purpose be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, wife, Dorothea Grivas, when she Hoff Medical Group in Redwood Alexander James Baer, a native he found working with them August 20, at Woodside Village was visiting from Greece. Two City. Another son, Martin, is an of Menlo Park, died August 6 inspired his decision to major Church for Curt D. Hume. Mr. weeks later they were married. oral surgeon in Redwood City. from injuries sustained as a pas- in psychology, say family mem- Hume died July 10 of complica- Mr. Vasil practiced law with the Ms. Hoff was born in San Fran- senger in an automobile accident bers. tions resulting from a fall. He was firm of Petris & Vasil in Campbell cisco and graduated with a degree in Santa Barbara, where he was a He enjoyed spending time at 90. for more than 40 years. He lived in in nursing from St. Mary’s College. student at University of California the family cabin in Bear Valley, Mr. Hume was born in Boston. Sharon Heights with his family for She was head nurse at St. Mary’s at Santa Barbara. He was 25. skiing and snow boarding in As a boy he moved with his family more than 30 years. Medical Center in San Francisco Mr. Baer attended Nativity, the winter; and swimming in to Seattle. He graduated from the He enjoyed golf, gardening and when she met her future husband, Ladera and Hillview Schools in the lake, sliding at the river, and University of Washington with his wife’s Greek cooking, but his who was a young physician at the Menlo Park. In 1998 he graduat- fishing in the summer, say family a degree in economics and busi- No. 1 interest was his family, say hospital. ed from Los Altos High School, members. ness. family members. They were married in 1951 and where he played saxophone in He is survived by his stepfather During World War II, he received He is survived by his wife, Doro- moved to San Antonio, Texas, the band. During and after high and mother, Alan and Susan specialized training in geopolitics thea; daughters Caterina Peterson while Dr. Hoff was in the U.S. Air school, he was a barista and Arcady Barich of Santa Cruz; at Stanford University. He was of Pasadena and Joanna Dienstbier Force. They returned to Redwood morning manager at Starbuck’s father and stepmother Roger then stationed in Assam, India, of Los Gatos; sisters Mary Vasilakis City to start Dr. Hoff’s medical in Los Altos. and Patsy Baer of Browns Valley; serving as a cryptographic techni- and Nancy Russon of Pittsburgh; practice. Ms. Hoff retired from He completed his lower divi- sister Heidi Davis of San Diego; cian. and four granddaughters. nursing to raise her family. sion college work at Sierra and brothers Adam Davis and Adam As a manager in the personnel Services were held July 28 at A dedicated mother, she was con- Santa Barbara City Colleges. He Baer of Santa Cruz, and Chris- department of United Air Lines, the Greek Orthodox Church tinually involved in the education was a senior at UCSB majoring topher Baer of Morgan Hill; and he met many people and visited of the Holy Cross in Belmont. and development of her children, in psychology. For three years maternal grandparents Alex and different corners of the world, say Donations may be made to the say family members. She enjoyed he had worked with autistic Frances Arcady of Menlo Park. family members. Church of the Holy Cross, 900 singing, playing bridge, working children at the Devereux facility A Woodside resident for nearly Alameda de las Pulgas, Belmont, on her computer, participating in 50 years, he enjoyed riding his CA 94002; or to the National Elderhostel and practicing tai chi bicycle, swimming and keeping up Hospice Foundation. with her late husband. on current affairs. She is survived by her six He is survived by his wife, Vick- Shirley Hoff children: Dr. John D. Hoff of ie, and daughter “Ulricka” Karen Atherton, Dr. Michael P. Hoff Nurse and mother of six L. Hume. of Dalton, Georgia, Dr. Gary A. Shirley F. Hoff died July 26 at the Hoff of San Carlos, Dr. Martin J. John Vasil home of her daughter, Linda Hoff- Hoff of Half Moon Bay, Linda M. Siegel, in Watsonville. Ms. Hoff, a Hoff-Siegel of Watsonville, and Attorney longtime Atherton resident before Charles C. Hoff of San Diego; John Vasil of Menlo Park died moving to Watsonville six years and 10 grandchildren. July 25 at home after a lengthy ill- ago, was 77. A funeral Mass was held July 31 ness. He was 76. An attorney, Mr. Ms. Hoff was a former nurse and at St. Pius Catholic Church in Red- Vasil had worked until the last days the mother of six children. She was wood City. The family prefers that of his illness, say family members. the widow of Dr. John E. Hoff, a memorial contributions be made Mr. Vasil was born in McKees- well-known Redwood City doctor to organizations for the blind. rock, Pennsylvania. He graduated who delivered 10,000 babies, most- from Pennsylvania State Univer- ly at Sequoia Hospital, during his

Family Connections offers swimming class

Family Connections, a parent- ized that low-income children are participation preschool program See picture on Page 3. at a greater risk for drowning or for families in Menlo Park and becoming injured in a water-relat- East Palo Alto, will offer a six-week Onetta Harris Community Center ed accident, according to executive water safety course for children in Menlo Park. It combines class- director Renee Zimmerman. They in low-income families and their room water safety instruction with also found that a number of the parents this fall. swimming lessons in the pool. students’ parents did not know The program, which will begin Organizers began offering the how to swim, and would teach on September 5, will be held in the course in 2004 when they real- their children to avoid water events altogether. Children aged 0-5 from families − Celebrate the GRAND OPENING determined to be low-income are at both of our locations! − invited to participate. For additional information or 1630 El Camino Real, Redwood City, CA 94063 • (650) 368-2841 to register, call 685-6240 or visit 1271 Laurel Street, San Carlos, CA 94070 • (650) 592-2841 familyconnections.org. — Renee Zimmerman Vacuum Bags All Floor Buy 2 Get 1 Models & Beam Central Vacuum Systems FREE Demos priced Call for Quote Limit 6 per customer www.almanacnews.com to move mention Grand Opening Special exp. 9/30/06 your online source for local

Simplicity Freedom www.ralphvacnsew.com news about Vacuum Miele S-4 (beats Oreck by 40%) Galaxy series MENLO PARK, models starting at Starting at $379 ATHERTON, $199 less in store discount PORTOLA VALLEY, Royal • Simplicity • Sebo • Beam Central Vacuum • Roomba • Miele • Bosch WOODSIDE 20 ■ The Almanac ■ August 16, 2006 COMMUNITY

■ POLICE CALLS New Artisan Shop showcases This information is from the Atherton and Fraud reports: Menlo Park police departments and the ■ Check fraud at business, 800 block of San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office. Under Willow Road, August 4. wide variety of handcrafted items law, people charged with offenses are ■ Attempt to embezzle money from com- considered innocent until convicted. pany-issued credit card, 1300 block of ARTISAN artists is on display. Margy Leibel’s ■ INFORMATION ATHERTON Willow Road, August 7. continued from page 5 necklaces, using large semi-pre- ■ False use of credit card, August 10. Grand theft reports: cious stones and freshwater pearls, The Artisan Shop is located at ■ Stolen vehicle report: Business in 500 Three ice axes taken from residence, a photographer. have been featured in Instyle, Marie Allied Arts Guild, 75 Arbor Road 300 block of Walnut Avenue, July 28. block of El Camino Real, August 6. The Artisan Shop features Claire, and “O” (Oprah Winfrey’s in Menlo Park. It is open Monday ■ Two flat-screen TV’s lifted from Burglary reports: unlocked garage, 100 block of Rosewood ■ Residence ransacked with undeter- the work of California artists in publication) magazines. through Saturday from 10 a.m. Drive, July 30. mined loss, 700 block of Stanford Avenue, ceramics, glass, designer cloth- “We really have something for to 5 p.m. For more information, ■ Students were seen riding a custodian’s July 28. ing, jewelry, needlework and everyone,” says Tita Koloszi of call 325-2450. electric cart toward Flood Park, later ■ Passport, money and jewelry taken recovered on the track at Menlo-Atherton from residence, 700 block of Laurel more. Elegant beaded evening Atherton, a Woodside-Atherton High School, August 5. Avenue, August 2. coats, reminiscent of the 1920s, Auxiliary member. She gives Fraud report: Fraudulent account opened ■ Computer and portable music player hang next to shawls of hand- credit to first-year active mem- Valley Ceramic Arts Guild. Sev- using man’s Social Security number, 200 stolen from residence, 100 block of Kent painted silk. Handsome pottery bers of the auxiliary for coming eral of the Orchard Valley art- block of Stockbridge Avenue, August 9. Place, August 7. Burglary report: Appliances stolen from Attempted burglary reports: fills niches in the thick adobe up with the idea. ists will have work on display house that foreclosed recently, 200 block ■ 1300 block of Hollyburne Avenue, July 30. walls. A glass-fronted case holds “They wanted to bring art at the shop through October of Stockbridge Avenue, August 10. ■ Glass door and window smashed at antique crystal and silver. Hand- back to the Guild. They wrote a 15. Ceramic items at the store business, 3700 block of Haven Avenue, MENLO PARK made silk pillows in luscious great business plan to convince include flower-arranging con- August 3. Grand theft reports: colors fill another corner. the board of directors of the tainers, vessels and sculptural ■ Laptop computer stolen in February ■ COLLEGE GRADUATES Jewelry by several California auxiliary,” she says. The auxil- pieces, along with functional from business, 1000 block of El Camino iary’s bylaws had to be changed items such as cream and sugar Real, July 31. ■ because members were tradition- sets, pitchers and teapots. ■ Two computer monitors and a projector ■ Michael Christopher Has- BIRTHS stolen, Menlo-Atherton High School at sen has received a bachelor of ally not allowed to be involved in Jo Killen and Doris Fischer Col- 555 Middlefield Road, August 1. arts degree in history from Deni- Menlo Park businesses at the Guild. brie are coordinating the pottery son University in Granville, Ohio. Pamela Mallett and Dawn exhibition. Lee Middleman of ■ Deidre O’Neil and Shawn Colo, Michael, a graduate of Menlo Naso co-chaired the project. Portola Valley, an internationally ■ OBITUARY POLICY a daughter, June 9, at Sequoia School, is the son of Mr. and Hospital. Also involved were Lucille Cole, known potter, is a local member Mrs. Howard Hassen of Atherton. The Almanac publishes obituaries ■ Lizeth Cornelio and Armando Ilene Cohen, Esther Eitel and Kay of the Orchard Valley Guild. about people who lived in Atherton, ■ Brian S. Hendrickson of Torres, a son, July 28, at Bates. The new store is trying to Menlo Park, Portola Valley and Menlo Park, received a bachelor Sequoia Hospital. The shop’s proceeds benefit appeal to a wide audience, with Woodside, or played a prominent of arts degree in engineering Lucile Salter Packard Children’s items ranging from costly jewelry role in these communities. These sciences, cum laude, from Dart- Portola Valley Hospital — as do proceeds from to hand-decorated flip-flops. obituaries are news stories, written mouth College in Hanover, New the entire Guild operation. “We’re trying everything as by Almanac staff writers, based on ■ Katherine and Daniel Sommer, a Hampshire. He is the son of Lisa Ms. Koloszi was helpful because long as it’s handmade or heir- information provided by mortuaries and Dana Hendrickson. son, July 22, at Sequoia Hospital. and family members. There is no she is a member of the Orchard loom,” says Ms. Koloszi. A charge. Due to space limits and other reasons, these stories may not include all the information a family wishes. Some families choose to Global Travel can write their own memorial announce- ments, and purchase space to be dangerous. . . . publish them in the Almanac. For Jensen Hauser information about that, e-mail Blanca Go to Securetravel.org for FREE Yoc in the Advertising Department at [email protected], or call 326- CUSTOM UPHOLSTERING travel tips and email info@[email protected] 8210, ext. 239. Swiss Craftsmanship Since 1950 98 5th Ave. • (650) 365-5027 • Redwood City for more in-depth security advice.

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-!29#+.!00 Mary C. Knapp, 82, of Portola Valley, passed away Monday, August 7, at home, surrounded by her children. Known by her friends as "Coopie", she was a native of St. Louis, Mo. where she rode with the Bridlespur Hunt and attended Mary Institute. She attended Bennett College in New York and then moved to California in 1945 when she married Gordon Knapp. She bred and raced thoroughbreds in Northern California for over 50 years. She served on the Northern California Horseman˙s Benevolent & Protective Association Liaison Committee and was known for her “Day at the Races” parties. She traveled extensively with the racing Founded in 1983, we are enthusiasts “Horsing Around” group visiting race tracks and breeding farms experts in the field of elder law worldwide. She volunteered at the Children’s Health Council, and was active in and estate planning.We have the Junior League of Palo Alto, the Valley Auxiliary, and the Tally Ho horse show. given peace of mind to She was an avid bridge player and was known for her home-raised chicken eggs. thousands of individuals. She is survived by her brother Tom Cooper of Houston; her ex-husband, Gordon and their three children; Jim Knapp of San Diego, Cathleen Dorinson of Pt. Reyes DON’T DELAY Peninsula GI Research Cortland Marcelli, Station, and Barbara Romandia of Aromas; and four grandchildren. A garden Redwood City Clinical Research Coordinator memorial service will be held at her home on August 19, at 1 p.m. In lieu of 650.493.8070 flowers donations may be made to Family Service Agency of San Mateo county 2300 Geng Road, Suite 200 tel: 650-364-2900 or Mary Institute in St. Louis. Palo Alto, CA 94303 www.gerd411.com PAID OBITUARY

August 16, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 21 Serving Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley, and Woodside for 40 years. Ideas, thoughts and opinions about local issues from people in our community. Edited by Tom Gibboney.

Editor & Publisher Tom Gibboney Fire board tackles pensions Editorial Managing Editor Richard Hine ur hats are off to Peter Carpenter, a member of the Menlo near “perfect storm” of circumstances that together have stymied News Editor Renee Batti Park Fire Protection District board, for continuing to action on this costly issue: Lifestyles Editor Jane Knoerle ■ Senior Staff Writers Obring up the very difficult issue of funding the huge and After 9/11, state legislators, including Sen. Joe Simitian, have Marion Softky, Marjorie Mader ever-growing pension costs that confront this district and virtu- shown little enthusiasm for tackling the issue, perhaps because Staff Writers Andrea Gemmet, ally every other public safety operation in the state. they would be battling the state’s strong public safety unions. David Boyce, Rory Brown Editorial Intern Sean Howell (The board is inviting members of the public to comment on Most state officials say local districts asked for the higher benefits Contributors Barbara Wood, what they think the board should consider as it negotiates a new during the state’s high-tech boom, and hence put the burden on Bryan Wiggin, Kate Daly, labor contract this year — an agenda item pushed by Mr. Carpen- themselves. Bill Rayburn, Miles McMullin, Katie Blankenberg ter in the hopes that a public dis- ■ Local districts, which need to offer competitive pay and Special Sections Editors cussion on pensions and benefits benefit packages to attract and keep public safety personnel, are Carol Blitzer, Sue Dremann EDITORIAL Photographer Marjan Sadoughi will take place — at its meeting reluctant to reduce benefits in any way, fearing they will lose The opinion of The Almanac August 15. The meeting begins at employees to other districts. Design & Production 7 p.m. in the board room at dis- ■ Firefighters and other public safety employees are hardly Design Director Raul Perez Assistant Design Director trict headquarters, 300 Middlefield Road in Menlo Park.) eager to give up a benefit they believe they deserve after 30 years Katie Cvitkovich This “rock and a hard place” pension problem is going to con- of service in an often dangerous occupation. Designers Linda Atilano, ■ Gail Thoreson, Holly Peters, tinue to squeeze the finances of local districts until something is Finally, this imbroglio comes at a time when defined benefit Michael Villalobos, Elise Eisenman, done. But until now, at least, the districts fear that if they lower pension plans, such as PERS-system public pensions, at all levels of Sara Rosenberg retirement benefits they will lose employees to other areas that government are receiving more scrutiny as new accounting rules Advertising maintain the high-priced benefits. require local governments to cover such unfunded liabilities far into Advertising Manager Neal Fine Here is what the Menlo Park district is up against: the future. The rules can add millions to already tight local budgets Display Advertising Sales Roxanne Bates In 2001-02, its pension costs were $290,000; in 2005-06, the costs if public agencies are forced to pay for this mandate. Real Estate Account were $3.5 million, or 18 percent of the district’s $19.3 million budget. At the very least, the Menlo Park fire board’s decision to discuss Representative Donna Berryhill The reason: In July of 2002, the district increased retirement pensions is admirable. There are numerous ways to begin reduc- Real Estate Assistant Monica Asborno benefits for firefighters 50 or older with 30 years service from ing this benefit cost, including dropping the 90 percent guarantee 60 percent of their highest salary to 90 percent until death. The to 80 or even 70 percent. Advertising Services enhanced benefits were being awarded to increasing numbers of Another idea advanced by board member Rex Ianson during Coordinator M.J. Hayden Receptionist Renee Meil emergency workers in the state — a result of the state Legisla- last year’s election campaign would require firefighters to pay Circulation, Classified, ture’s 1999 approval of a bill allowing public agencies to increase more into their pension plan when the district is required to pay & Legal Advertising Bill Rayburn PERS benefits to that maximum level. more into the PERS system. Mr. Ianson, a retired firefighter with Published every Wednesday at Mr. Carpenter has called the escalating pension costs “unsus- more than 30 years in the district, could convince his former 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas, tainable,” and although he supports maintaining benefits for all union to help reduce retirement costs. Menlo Park, CA 94025 (650) 854-2626 current firefighters, he believes that it is time for the district to If no action is taken, escalating pension costs will continue to FAX (650) 854-0677 adopt a two-tiered system, with less-generous pension benefits for force public safety programs to eat up a larger and larger share e-mail news (no photos please) to: new employees. Unions have adamantly opposed such a plan, and of local budgets, and ultimately will force agencies to ask voters [email protected] e-mail photos with captions to: so far, at least, no action has been taken. to approve tax increases to pay for them. At that point, we may [email protected] In prior reporting on this issue, the Almanac has identified a begin to see real pension reform. e-mail letters to: [email protected] The Almanac, established in September, 1965, is delivered each week to residents of Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley and Woodside LETTERS and adjacent unincorporated areas of southern San Mateo County. The Almanac is qualiﬁ ed by Our readers write decree of the Superior Court of San Mateo County to publish public notices of a governmental and legal nature, as stated in Decree No. Drivers need to know 147530, issued November 9, 1969. Voluntary subscriptions are available about cyclists’ rights for delivery to homes in Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley and Woodside at $30 per year or $50 for Editor: 2 years. Subscriptions by businesses Your July 26 story about Tom or residents outside the area are $50 for one year and $80 for two years. Maddox getting killed by a car while cycling brings out the importance of automobile safety ■ WHAT’S YOUR VIEW? and responsibility. Most drivers don’t know that a All views must include a home address bicyclist has a legal right to “take a and contact phone number. Published letters will also appear on the Almanac lane” when there is no safe way for web site: www.AlmanacNews.com a motorist to pass her. Maddox was EMAIL your views to cycling at 30 mph on the right side letters@AlmanacNews. of a double yellow line (no passing com. Indicate if it is a zone) with a helmet on. Beverly letter to be published. Oaks couldn’t wait 30 seconds to FAX to Editor at reach a stretch of road where pass- 854-0677. ing would be both legal and safe. When you are motoring behind Atherton Heritage Association MAIL or deliver to: a cyclist, just take your time and Editor at the Almanac, 3525 Alameda de las enjoy the view. You may be sav- Our Regional Heritage Pulgas, Menlo Park, ing a life. When it opened in 1898 on Valparaiso Avenue, the Sacred Heart Seminary was located in Menlo Park, an CA 94025. Elaine Haight area that later became Atherton. The building served as a school for girls from first grade through the Cowper Street, Palo Alto CALL the Viewpoint desk at second year of college. The structure was heavily damaged in the 1906 earthquake, but later was rebuilt 854-2626, ext. 222. and enlarged as it is today. See LETTERS, next page

22 ■ The Almanac ■ August 16, 2006 VIEWPOINT LETTERS Three views of city’s child care costs Continued from previous page Cooler heads Thrilled to see true costs coming out Actual cost was uncovered prevailed in Atherton Editor: Editor: Editor: Hallelujah! As someone who repeatedly Thank you for the diligent research that The recent flap about disclosure questioned the credibility of the supposed uncovered the true cost of Menlo Park’s of a confidential investigative $444,000 in cost savings to the city that child care program. report in Atherton shows the Menlo Park City Council members Mickie The conclusion seems irrefutable that danger of Town Council members Winkler and Lee Duboc claimed over and the City Council majority’s arguments for and local newspapers leaping to over again would occur by privatizing the privatization were not based on the facts. conclusions, and the value of expe- Burgess child care programs, I am glad to see My children, now attending Menlo- rienced municipal attorneys with that the true figure has finally been released Atherton High School, benefited from the courage to follow state law. by the city. (See Almanac story, “Child care Menlo Park’s after-school program when The confidential report involved programs recover their costs,” August 9.) than a temporary decline, management will they were younger. While I wish they had disciplinary actions affecting town Now standing at just a paltry $4,500 in also cut indirect overseers because there is been able to enjoy the new facilities being employees, who are legally entitled potential savings, this disclosure puts the less work for them to manage. No responsible completed, the program served them and to certain privacy rights. Council final nail in the coffin of the folly that city will maintain an excessive management our family well. It is essential that our city members Kathy McKeithen and was the effort led by Ms. Winkler and Ms. structure when there is no need to do so. provide high-quality, affordable child care Jerry Carlson demanded immedi- Duboc to give away the city-run programs The $4,500 savings figure is inaccurate for the entire community. ate disclosure of the full report. to a private firm just mere months after the due to differences in overhead costs, Arguments for privatization, whether The Almanac piled on, showing new, fully furnished, $3.4 million taxpayer- retirement health care costs, and fees paid of public swimming pools or child care its institutional interest in disclo- financed children’s center was opened. into the city by the private providers that programs, are based more on ideology sure of everything by quoting an The only question that now remains is were not considered by the Almanac. For than economics. Some people simply do attorney for the newspaper indus- why it took so long for the true figure to example, one provider is offering to pay not believe in providing publicly funded try to the effect that immediate be released, given that the budget was for- the city $108,000 in rent. There was no services to the community, and wish full disclosure was mandatory, mally approved over one month ago, back accounting sleight of hand, only a misun- thus to minimize public investment. the Town Council members had on June 20. I look forward to the council derstanding on the part of the Almanac of They are free to have that ideology, but a right to demand disclosure, and asking City Manager David Boesch that the true net cost. citizens should carefully analyze their that it was “career suicide” for the very question at its next meeting. Claiming that private child care providers arguments, particularly when they sug- town attorney not to comply. Jeff Staudinger would provide a lower quality of child care is gest that privatization leads to “more All of which was premature. Sharon Park Drive, Menlo Park like contending that children cannot receive efficient government.” Since no municipal attorney can as good an education at private schools as Much more often than not, the alleged just call up his council members Bottom line covered only direct labor they can at public schools. Children’s Cre- efficiencies of privatization prove illusory, individually and advise them on ative Learning Center’s Shores Child Care or worse, the cost savings, if there are any, legal matters without a properly Editor: Center in Redwood City (a private child care come directly out of the pockets of employ- noticed meeting, a full airing of I must take exception to last week’s edi- provider) was awarded “Child Care Center ees. I, for one, do not want my city budget the legal and policy issues had to torial regarding child care costs. of the Year” by the Professional Association to be reduced by “privatizing,” i.e. lowering await a “closed session” with the The costs given to the Almanac were only for Childhood Education in 2005. The center the wages of child care workers. full council two weeks ago. Then, direct labor costs, including current health was selected for its exceptional commitment The entire community benefits when the the town attorney for the first care and pension. They did not include to California families through providing the people who provide us with public services time could advise the council of indirect costs. Indirect costs for in-house highest quality of child care. — whether they be city managers, police the issues. programs are usually substantially higher Most peninsula cities have chosen to out- officers, child care providers or swimming His legal opinions were not only than with subcontracts because they source child care services because of the high pool workers — are part of an organized, approved by the full Town Coun- require considerably more management quality of the outsourced programs at costs professional workforce. Thanks again to cil, but they closely track a complex oversight. Whenever direct in-house labor well below those for in-house provided pro- the Almanac for providing more factual series of statutes and a similar situ- costs are equal to an outsourced program, grams. Menlo Park should follow their lead. support for that argument. ation in Palo Alto, involving dis- the outsourced program will cost less. Hank Lawrence Galen Rosenberg closure of an investigative report Also, whenever labor direct costs see more Sharon Oaks Drive, Menlo Park Laurel Avenue, Menlo Park of city personnel. The Almanac and all Peninsula elected officials would do well to recognize that The removal and near destruc- Coyote Point worker not think raising money is their people of San Mateo County. there often are multiple sides to tion of the Park’s neon sign didn’t shocked at closure plan responsibility. I suggest the mem- Kathy Heffernan legal issues that may appear super- just result in angering “some bers of this board who refuse to Past director of development ficially simple. people in the community” but Editor: raise money resign and let the Camp Connell, California Doug Aikins caused the city attorney to serve As a past employee of Coyote Save Coyote Point Museum Alpine Road, Portola Valley the owner a cease and desist Point Museum I feel the need group form a new board that will Something can be done order to prevent further illegal to write this letter expressing raise money to see that Coyote about noisy air conditioners Another view of Park demolition of the theater. my dismay and astonishment Point Museum remains a vital The plan is to gut the theater, that a board of directors may be part of the Bay Area commu- Editor: Theatre’s closure permanently destroying the allowed to close the museum. nity. I know many of the people Summer is here and so are the Editor: cultural venue. The facade will I understand the museum has involved with Save Coyote Point air conditioners. Does anyone else I want to clarify points touched remain “as a symbol of the past” been operating with a deficit Museum and I have the utmost ever feel overwhelmed by the con- upon in your article about the in the words of the owner. for the past few years. If the confidence they will be able to stant sound of the air condition- Park Theatre. The north wall will have five board had been willing to hire raise the money needed. ers — sometimes day and night? The theater was not aban- identical doors with five identical a development director, it is I hope the Board of Supervi- It seems rational that all air doned, but closed by the owner windows in between each, giving unlikely there would have been a sors will not let money be the conditioners, and heat pumps after forcing out Landmark The- the theater the appearance of a deficit. As the former director of deciding factor in what happens — installed in the past, present aters. He relies on income from storage facility out by Bayshore development at Coyote Point, I to Coyote Point Museum. I ask and future — be required by his other theater, the Guild in Freeway. Five identical spaces will know what is involved in raising the supervisors to not allow the building code to be enclosed Menlo Park, which he apparently run the entire width of the theater. money. present board of trustees to close in some substantial sound- finds sufficiently profitable. The plan is destructive, graceless, One of the most crucial parts of Coyote Point Museum and to absorbing material, all sides The Park was profitable when and I believe does not come close fund-raising is the board. Boards encourage the Save Coyote Point and top included. It can be done closed. Landmark wanted to to meeting state requirements for of nonprofits are expected to Museum group to step back efficiently and safely without remain, offered market-rate rent, the protection of historically sig- give and to raise money. At some in and return the museum to hurting the machine. Noise does but was rebuffed. There are ready nificant buildings. The city has no nonprofits board members are financial stability. carry. We all deserve freedom tenants but the owner states he is obligation to facilitate or approve asked to drop off if they do not What is happening to Coyote from unnecessary noise, even on not willing to perpetuate the city’s the owner’s plan. think it is their obligation to give Point Museum is no less than a hot day. expectation that the theater is a Winter Dellenbach and to get money. I understand a model of a dirty corporate Jackie Leonard-Dimmick film venue. Palo Alto the present museum board does takeover and the losers are the Walnut Avenue, Atherton

August 16, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 23 LOCATED ON ATHERTON’S MOST SOUGHT-AFTER STREET, THIS BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED PROPERTY OF APPROXIMATELY 1.78 ACRES IS LOCATED NEAR THE MENLO CIRCUS CLUB. OFFERED AT $16,000,000

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Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Square footage and/or acreage information contained herein has been received from seller, existing reports, appraisals, public records and/or other sources deemed reliable. However, neither seller nor listing agent has verified this information. If this information is important to buyer in determining whether to buy or the purchase price, buyer should conduct buyer’s own investigation.

24 ■ The Almanac ■ August 16, 2006