MENLO PARK election: More money reported from union, developers, real estate interests. Page 5
Cycling: Romantic, heady and healthful. Health & Fitness
THE HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER FOR MENLO PARK, ATHERTON, PORTOLA VALLEY AND WOODSIDE Section 2
NOVEMBER 8, 2006 www.AlmanacNews.com | VOL. 42 NO. 10
THE BIG 5-O Woodside celebrates 50 years as a town [Story begins on page 14] apr.com
REDEFINING QUALITY SINCE 1990 Reading between the emotional line makes the difference between finding a house and a home.
ATHERTON Incredible 4bd/3ba remodeled and expanded ranch with chef’s kitchen. Bonus room adjacent to garage ideal for gym. Luxurious master. Landscaped grounds with level lawn, firepit, pool/ spa. Menlo Park schools. $3,750,000
WOODSIDE Lovely western hills view property on a flat acre with a custom 4 bedroom, 2870+/-sf home. Expansive lawns and gardens frame the view and create a relaxing retreat. $3,400,000
PALO ALTO Moments to downtown Palo Alto, this stylish renovation by R & M Properties reflects charm, innovative design and quality throughout. The lovely 4bd/2.5ba floorplan offers a living room with fireplace, family room with built-in cabinetry, and a separate office or den. $2,295,000
apr.com | WOODSIDE OFFICE 2930 WOODSIDE ROAD 650.529.1111
APR COUNTIES | Santa Clara | San Mateo | San Francisco | Alameda | Contra Costa | Monterey | Santa Cruz
2 ■ The Almanac ■ November 8, 2006 custom jewelers
This week’s news, features and community events.
FIRST SHOT
FIRST SESSION FREE! The Almanac/Marion Softky Call Today! Musicians in motion The high-stepping Stanford Band, as is the fashion at a groundbreaking ceremony for a $379 million X- ray laser device, brought along their hard hats as they entertained about 1,000 people on Oct. 20 at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center in Menlo Park.
Menlo Park Portola Valley ■ Council election: More money reported from ■ Plan unfolds for bulk buy of solar arrays in union, developers, real estate interests. Page 5 Portola Valley, Ladera. Page 7 ■ O’Brien Group spends big to fight referendum. Is your Page 8 Woodside ■ Urban forest is green but growing fragile. Page 11 addiction ■ Woodside and Portola Valley may get $2 million from county in settlement of hurting Election 2006 property-tax dispute. Page 9 ■ High school seniors help out at polls. Page 5 anyone? ■ Check AlmanacNews.com for election night Sports updates. Page 5 ■ M-A’s perfect football season ends with loss to ■ Measure A campaign raises almost $200,000. Aragon. Page 19 Page 17
Also Inside On the cover Around Town ...... 29 With a phone call and a picture-perfect photo op, Editorial ...... 22 Woodside officially became a town on Nov. 16, 1956, following a bruising and divisive incorpora- Calendar ...... 31 HE SEQUOIA CENTER helps families recover the Letters ...... 22 tion campaign. New city clerk Jane Hicks holds the balance in their lives from the effects of abusing alcohol Police Calls ...... 21 phone up for council members Selah Chamberlain T Schools ...... 18 (left), Mayor William Lowe and Rose OíNeill to and other drugs. Our services are offered in a warm and caring hear the good news. This month, the town environment by trained staff dedicated to helping individuals celebrates its 50th anniversary. Photo collage by Marjan Sadoughi. Story begins on Page 14. gain control over their lives. The Sequoia Center is licensed through –Call today 1-800-997-5504 to schedule a free, confi dential CALLING ON THE ALMANAC the State of California to deliver: 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- THE [email protected] 4455. Periodicals Postage Paid at Menlo Park, CA and at Residential Treatment For all other calls, phone 854-2626 additional mailing offices. Adjudicated a newspaper of general • 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 ■ E-mail letters to the editor to: Fax: 854-0677 2 years are welcome from residents of the above circulation /Day Treatment 650 Main Street, Redwood City [email protected] area. Subscription rates for businesses and for residents of 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
November 8, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 3 Roberts Market Thanksgiving Menu 2006 A TOWN MARKET PLACE NOW at Roberts *Orders must be placed by Sunday, November 19th 3015 WOODSIDE ROAD & picked up by Wednesday, November 22nd. WOODSIDE, CA 94062 S USHI Made Fresh Daily 650-851-1511 Free-Range Diestel Ranch Turkeys Open 6:30AM - 8PM Small 10 - l2lbs. ~ Serves 8 to 10 people $48.00 Large 16 - l8lbs. ~ Serves 14 to 16 people $58.00 Sale Dates: November 8, 9, 10, 11 * The Diestel turkeys are pre-roasted and will need www.robertsmarket.com approximately 2 hours to reheat at 300° in your oven. Starters & Sides Dressings & Gravy PUMPKIN SQUASH SOUP TRADITIONAL STUFFING ~ Sweet and Crisp Savory with a hint of With mushrooms, celery, onions, & water chestnuts ¢ curry and cream ...... $8.50 per qt. $5.00 per pint...... $10.00 per qt. FUJI APPLES 99 lb. STUFFED BAKED BRIE CORNBREAD SAUSAGE STUFFING ~ High in Vitamin “C”!! With your choice of caramel apple, With dried cranberries and apricots $ or cranberry chutney . . . . .$14.50 each $5.00 per pint...... $10.00 per qt. KIWI FRUIT 4for 1.00 GREEN BEAN ALMANDINE PORCINI MUSHROOM GRAVY ~ Fresh With caramelized shallots and butter Rich and creamy $ $5.50 per pint...... $11.00 per qt. $5.50 per pint...... $11.00 per qt. SPRING MIX 2.99lb. SWEET POTATO PUREE ...... ONION SAGE GRAVY ~ Red wine, Large Seasoned with nutmeg & cinnamon and caramelized onion & sage flavor this rich gravy $ candied walnuts and maple syrup $5.50 per pint...... $11.00 per qt. HAAS AVOCADOS 1.29ea. $5.75 per pint...... $11.25 per qt. ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH With sage butter and brown sugar Desserts $5.75 per pint. . . . . $11. 25 per qt. UPPER CRUST BAKERY ~ The “No Special Occasion” Bouquet WHIPPED POTATOES 8" Pies, serve 6 to 8...... $14.99 Traditional potatoes with butter & cream Apple, Apple Streusel, Berry Supreme, Pumpkin, $5.00 per pint...... $10.00 per qt. Pumpkin Amaretto, Cranapple, & Pecan All too many people need a special occasion to give flowers. For instance, children Freshmade Cranberry Sauce RUBICON BAKERY ~ will be sure to send their mothers beautiful bouquets on Mother’s Day (as they should!), and 8" Tarts, serves 6...... $14.99 husbands will often send a dozen roses to their wives on their anniversaries (as they should!). Delicious with a hint of orange $4.50 per pint...... $9.00 per qt. Apple Almond, Apple Cranberry, Caramel Nut, But remember – there are 363 other days of the year when the unexpected gift of flowers & Lemon V would be equally appreciated. For instance, imagine your girlfriend’s surprise when she 6" Cakes, serves 6 ...... $14.99 receives flowers with a note on “I Think I’m Falling in Love Day.” There is also “You Mean Pumpkin Cheesecake, Chocolate Cake, More to Me Than You Know ( and I Usually Show) Day,” which is appropriate for anyone at Chocolate Turtle, & Carrot Spice Cake any time. Flowers sent on these “occasions” usually make the biggest impression. At ROBERTS MARKET, we feature a wonderful selection of bouquets. We can help you find the perfect arrangement for any day. We recommend giving bouquets to loved ones whenever you C&T Cellars can, it makes a great impression. We also offer a wide variety of foods from all over the world. We are your source for specialty (COLLEEN & TRENT MOFFETT) foods including Indian, Asian, European and other specialties. Exceptional wines at everyday prices! Hint: While flowers make a huge impression, don’t forget 2005 “Backyard,” Chardonnay, Napa Valley ...... $15.99 that the accompanying note is usually read A beautiful blend of 50% stainless, 50% barrel fermented Chardonnay. The wine is rich and buttery, with bright, refreshing crispness. with breathless anticipation. 2005 “Patio” Pinot Noir, Napa Valley, Carneros ...... $19.99 A rich, full, plush Pinot from the great Hudson Vineyard. The grapes cost $3,500/ton!!! 2004 “Rooftop Red” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ...... $19.99 A bold, complex Cab from grapes grown on the back side of Howell Mountain. This serious effort has real depth and character. The above wines assort for a 10% case discount. CLOVER ORGANIC FAT FREE MILK $ 1/2 gallon – Also Whole – 2% – 1% 2.29 NABISCO ORIGINAL PREMIUM SALTINE CRACKERS $ Special This Week from Roberts 1 lb. box – Also Unsalted – Fat Free 1.99 STOUFFER’S LEAN CUISINE MACARONI & CHEESE $ $ 10 oz. – Also Cheese Lasagne Florentine 1.69 COUNTRY-STYLE BACON 4.98lb. KELLOGG’S RAISIN BRAN CEREAL $ $ 20 oz. – Also Smart Start 2.99 APPLEWOOD BACON 10.98lb. BUDWEISER BEER $ $ 12 oz. 12-pack cans – Also Light – Plus Calif. Redeem Value 6.99 CHICKEN APPLE SAUSAGE W/CINNAMON 4.98lb. FANCY FEAST CAT FOOD ¢ $ 3 oz. can 49 CHICKEN CAMBRIDGE SAUSAGE LINKS 4.98lb.
4 ■ The Almanac ■ November 8, 2006 M ENLO PARK | ATHERTON | WOODSIDE | PORTOLA V ALLEY Menlo Park election: More money reported from union, developers, real estate interests ■ Union spending hits $22,000; Boyle, of city services. Some of the fli- Alto, the former president of the cal action committee that has Duboc, Winkler collect another $3,000 each. ers also endorse candidates Cline Magnussen Buick Pontiac GMC campaigned in behalf of candi- and Robinson. auto dealership. dates Vincent Bressler, Cline and By Rory Brown the council election as of Nov. 3, The three candidates are run- Robinson, received a contribu- Almanac Staff Writer according to independent expen- Developer contributions ning as a slate, and have now tion of $1,050 from its own trea- diture reports filed Nov. 3 with Candidates Boyle, Duboc and raised about $87,500, com- surer, former council candidate local union is spending big the Secretary of State’s office. Winkler each took in another bined, from Jan. 1 to the Alma- David Speer. to oust Menlo Park City Of those costs, $13,382 has gone $3,000 in donations since Oct. nac’s press deadline on Nov. 6, The group paid for a flier ACouncil candidates toward ousting incumbents 30, according to late campaign according to the reports. recently mailed to residents that Lee Duboc and Mickie Duboc and Winkler, and finance reports. All six candidates also report- says incumbents Duboc and Winkler, as the two can- $8,298 has been spent The three candidates each ed accepting a $2,000 donation Winkler “did nothing to save” didates and their ally, ELECTION campaigning in favor received three donations of $1,000 from developer David Bohannon. the Park Theatre. John Boyle, cumula- 2006 of candidates Richard — one from the Redwood City- Mr. Bohannon’s company, the Candidate Robinson leads the tively received another Cline and Heyward based DES Architects and Engi- David D. Bohannon Organiza- other three candidates in mone- $9,000 from developers, Robinson, according to neers, and another from the Palo tion, reported Oct. 27 giving tary donations, with $22,400, fol- real estate interests and a the reports. Alto-based real estate company $2,000 to each of the six candidate lowed by Mr. Cline with $13,885 retired auto dealership presi- The labor council has Menlo Business Park LLC, accord- campaigns, and, according to the and Mr. Bressler with $10,919. dent. paid for four fliers that denounce ing to the reports. reports, none of the candidates Mr. Bressler has also loaned The San Mateo Central Labor incumbents Duboc and Winkler The third listed donation is turned down the offer. another $2,000 to his own cam- Council has poured $22,180 into for supporting the privatization from Bernard Magnussen of Palo Menlo Park on Track, a politi- paign. A Check AlmanacNews.com for election night news It may be a long night for San ■ ELECTION RETURNS Mateo County residents plan- ning to stay up until election Visit www.AlmanacNews.com results are in, but the Almanac will keep you company with updated stories and tallies at tion day won’t begin until www.AlmanacNews.com. Wednesday, she said. Election officials predict Candidates and commu- that the final unofficial results nity members are expected — minus a count of provi- to gather at the Menlo Park sional and absentee ballots City Council chambers, where dropped off at polling places Cable Channel 27 will begin on election day — won’t be live election night coverage available until about 2 a.m. at 10 p.m. This can be seen in The Almanac will post Menlo Park and Atherton. results for local races, begin- Menlo Park council candi- ning at about 8:05 election dates plan to attend, say candi- night, when the first wave of dates John Boyle and Heyward absentee ballots will be tallied, Robinson. Mr. Boyle is running according to Carol Marks of on a slate with incumbents the Elections Office. Mickie Winkler and Lee Duboc; At about 8:30 and 9 p.m., Mr. Robinson, Richard Cline more absentee vote results will and Vincent Bressler are trying be available. to unseat the incumbents. The Almanac/Marjan Sadoughi Starting at around 10:30 p.m., The cable station plans to A Boyle-Duboc-Winkler banner at a Menlo Avenue door in downtown Menlo Park, and candidate Heyward the county plans to release results stream its live coverage on the Robinson leaves fliers at a home on Valparaiso Avenue. that include precinct counts Internet at www.Community- every hour, Ms. Marks said. MediaCenter.net. The verification and count County Elections Office Menlo Park candidates make last push By Rory Brown of provisional and absentee postings can be found at www. ■ ELECTION 2006 incumbents) paid for the flier. ballots dropped off on elec- shapethefuture.org. Almanac Staff Writer Candidate Heyward Robinson labeled the flier “pretty ques- flurry of last-minute fli- The flier says the Service tionable,” as discussions of the High school seniors help out at polls ers, e-mails and accusations Employees International Union city’s labor negotiations occur reinforced the contentious Local 715, which represents the “in closed session, not on cam- By Stephanie Cadora A recently participated in a three- tone of the Menlo Park City Coun- city’s non-safety employees, “is paign fliers.” Special to the Almanac hour poll worker training session cil race as it entered its final hours. seeking an increase in pension Mr. Robinson and candidates f you want to get excited about at Menlo-Atherton High School. A flier that hit residents’ benefits that will increase the cost Vincent Bressler and Richard the upcoming election, visit a They are expected to be among mailboxes Nov. 6 is the latest to the city by over 50 percent.” Cline are running against the Ihigh school during poll-worker some 500 high school seniors, example of the fight between The “incumbent slate” of Lee incumbent slate. training. two camps for three seats on the Duboc, Mickie Winkler and John About 45 high school seniors See STUDENTS, page 8 five-member council. Boyle (a newcomer backed by the See CAMPAIGN, page 8
November 8, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 5 HOLIDAYHOLIDAY In the spirit of the upcoming Holidays, Flegels is having a storewide Holiday Sale with savings of 10% - 40%. Most floor items are available for immediate delivery, so now is the time to find that perfect accent or furniture SALE piece to create the ideal Holiday look! SALE Financing Available Flegels Fine Furniture & Interior Design
Menlo Park 870 Santa Cruz Ave. 650.326.9661 San Rafael 654 Second Street 415.454.0502 San Ramon 300 Market Place 925.806.0430 www.flegels.com
6 ■ The Almanac ■ November 8, 2006 NEWS REAL ESTATE Q&A by Gloria Darke Washer and dryer or bust!
Q. We recently purchased a home and without countering it out, then you have we included in our contract the washer the right to the washer and dryer. But you and dryer along with the usual items. The don’t have the right to the tenants washer house was tenant occupied and diffi cult and dryer, obviously. to get into. However, we went to do our Some research would need to be done fi nal walk-thru the day before we were to to ascertain the age of the washer/dryer One from the heart close and discovered that those appliances which you presumed were part of what you John and Susan Sobrato of Atherton were were not there. It turns out that they were purchasing. Try to determine what the recently honored at Pathways Hospice belonged to the tenants! We threatened value of appliances of that age and particular Foundation’s One From the Heart Awards not to close until this matter was resolved brand are and ask for a credit in that amount. breakfast at the Crowne Plaza Cabana in Palo but our loan rate also expired the next day. Fortunately, most of the information you Alto. The Sobratos received the John W. Gardner How is something like this supposed to be would need should be available on the Visionary Award for their innovative philosophy handled? Alice Hall, Palo Alto internet rather than having to make a dozen toward philanthropy. Their daughter, Lisa Sobrato A. Dear Alice Hall, Usually the personal phone calls. It is interesting to me that this Sonsini, accepted the award on their behalf. property which is to be included in the could have happened; it just goes to show purchase price is in the MLS information. that in the heat of negotiating, usually on You did not mention if you believed that price, other items can be overlooked. In it was part of the purchase or if you just the total scheme of things, this is a relatively added it in to your contract. However, small item and I would not advise holding Plan unfolds for bulk buy of solar even if it wasn’t in the listing but was in up the close for it. Just get an agreement the contract, the contract supercedes the in writing, close the escrow and enjoy your listing and if the sellers agreed to that new home. arrays in Portola Valley, Ladera For answers to any questions you may have on real estate, you may e-mail me By David Boyce at [email protected] or call 462-1111, Alain Pinel Realtors. I also offer a free ■ INFORMATION we’ll get other communities to Almanac Staff Writer move over,” Mr. Rive said. “If market analysis of your property.. group of Portola Val- For more information on we succeed, I think this is going ley and Ladera residents this program, send e-mail to to be quite big ... in setting an Aare collaborating with a [email protected]. example that communities can solar-panel installer on a plan to change if they come together.” increase the level of sun-gener- A home with an $85 monthly ated electricity in these commu- are welcome to make offers, but electricity bill would require a nities. The plan calls for acquir- none has responded so far, said 3.5-kilowatt array, while a home ing solar electricity systems at a Armand Neukermans, a commit- with a $1,000 bill would need 18 discount by buying in bulk. tee member and one of the people kilowatts, he said. Most homes Representatives of Foster behind the plan. have the necessary free space on City-based Solar City will fan “It’s sort of like planting a tree the roof, he added. out to visit each home in Por- for generations to come,” Mr. The arrays would be sized to tola Valley and Ladera, starting Neukermans said of the proposal. produce just enough electricity early this week, to engage in an Commenting darkly on the need to meet a home’s normal require- “advertising, public relations ments, Mr. Rive said. There is no and education” campaign on financial incentive in generating solar electricity fundamentals ‘It’s sort of like more than that because, while and to determine whether a the excess is fed back to PG&E, solar panel would work out at planting a tree for residents receive nothing for it, he a given home, said company generations to come.’ said. president and chief executive If a roof is oriented away officer Lyndon Rive. ARMAND NEUKERMANS, from the sun’s path, the system The company needs to sign up PORTOLA VALLEY RESIDENT can be set at a slight angle, or 40 to 50 residents before the end installed on the ground at an of the year to make the plan work for clean energy in the face of added charge, Mr. Rive said. For economically. Mr. Rive and other global environmental troubles, properties with deep shade from members of the Solar City team Mr. Neukermans added: “We large trees, solar panels may be met with a residents’ commit- don’t have 30 years. Our kids uneconomical, he added. tee at the home of Councilman don’t have 30 years.” Residents who sign with Solar Ted Driscoll on Oct. 29 to talk City would save about 30 percent about plans for the outreach Setting an example on purchase and installation of campaign. The state’s rebate for install- the panels, Mr. Rive said. The Mr. Driscoll recently had a ing solar panel systems drops deal includes handling of permits, solar electricity system installed in January to $2.40 per watt rebates and PG&E connections. on his roof. Portola Valley offi- from $2.60 per watt. To make Solar City will also monitor the cials are enthusiastic about the current plan work, Solar system’s operation over the Inter- wider use of solar panels, but City — formerly the solar- net, he said. the town is not affiliated with panel business unit at Palo Alto Plans for the new Town Center this project and will have no Hardware — must install a total include up to 70 kilowatts of roof- role in choosing a vendor, Mr. capacity of at least 175 kilowatts, mounted solar panels. The town Driscoll said. Mr. Rive said in an interview. could sign up with Solar City if a The committee will choose “We’re trying to set up an down payment could be made a vendor, probably on Nov. 14. example so that, if this com- before the end of the year, said Vendors other than Solar City munity can move over (to solar), Councilman Ted Driscoll. A
Wetland restoration tour Saturday Nov. 11, from 11 a.m. to noon, starting at Bayfront Park, at To get a feel for the largest Bayfront Park, which are now the end of Marsh Road. Res- wetland restoration project being restored as part of the ervations are required for the on the West Coast, you can San Francisco Bay National free tour. Call the refuge at sign up for a tour of the salt Wildlife Refuge. 510-792-0222. Or go to fws. ponds adjacent to Menlo Park’s The next tour is on Saturday, gov/desfbay.
November 8, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 7 NEWS O’Brien Group spends big to fight referendum Creative By Andrea Gemmet Arts Day Derry developer may argue referen- Almanac Staff Writer dum signatures are invalid. Page 10. Jill Leggett practices he O’Brien Group, the circulating services. painting on silk, Derry project developer, Friends of the Derry Project using a brush, has raised a total of $84,147 reported having $42,420 left in wax and silk T dye, at the silk and spent $41,728 to defeat a the bank. referendum against the project, scarf painting according to the latest campaign Menlo Park Tomorrow workshop finance statements. Menlo Park Tomorrow report- offered by Joy- Lily during the Menlo Park Tomorrow, the ed receiving a $10,000 loan and recent Creative group supporting the referen- an $87 cash contribution from Arts Day at dum, reported spending a quar- Menlo Park resident Morris Allied Arts Guild ter of that, $9,883. Brown. The financial statement in Menlo Park. Both camps received all their covers Sept. 1 through Sept. 30. The Almanac/ financial support from single The group reported spend- Marjan Sadoughi sources. ing $9,883, including $4,500 for Chris Brentlinger’s signature O’Brien Group consulting services, $2,552 for The O’Brien Group and its affili- petition and envelope printing ates contributed $60,000 in cash services from CopyAmerica, and Incumbent slate endorsement causes stir and $24,147 in non-monetary $1,464 for a newspaper ad in the ■ Parents protest co-president of school Schlein] broke no rules, he ran it contributions, for a total of $84,147 Almanac. Menlo Park Tomorrow by people ... it’s not a foundation given to the “Friends of Derry has $4,642 left in its coffers, most foundation endorsing candidates. endorsement in any way.” Lane, sponsored by The O’Brien of which is carried over from a By Rory Brown She acknowledged that the flier ■ ELECTION 2006 Group” committee. The financial previous campaign. Almanac Staff Writer did make some parents “uncom- statement shows contributions and fortable,” and the foundation expenditures made through Sept. Signature verification ike a lot of influential co-president of a nonprofit board plans to discuss, and poten- 30 of this year. The San Mateo County Elec- Menlo Park residents, Ted organization is using his title in tially reconsider, its guidelines The O’Brien Group reported tions Office is still examining ref- LSchlein is supporting one supporting candidates in a con- concerning political endorse- $24,147 in non-monetary expen- erendum petitions to see whether of two political camps in the City tentious council race at the same ments at its next meeting. ditures: $20,000-worth of “voter there are the 1,850 verified signa- Council election. time the foundation is looking She said that parents who communications,” $1,564 for an tures required to proceed with the But Mr. Schlein is also board for donations. choose not to donate to the Almanac newspaper ad, and $2,583 referendum on two ordinances: co-president of the Menlo Park- “[Mr. Schlein] using his name foundation because of the flier for services of one employee. one rezoning the Derry site for the Atherton Education Founda- probably alienated some poten- are “adding to the polarization” Cash expenditures include 134-condominium project and the tion, and the use of his title tial donors,” said parent Dan and “hurting the children.” $10,000 to Olson Consulting of other changing the zoning lan- in supporting candidates John Burke. “I think you have to The foundation is scheduled Tulare, California, and $7,500 to guage for the property next door at Boyle, Lee Duboc and Mickie question anyone that uses a to hold its first “donation day” Pacific Petitions Inc. for petition 1300 El Camino Real. A Winkler, has created a stir. volunteer organization for the of the 2006-07 school year on “Join me in voting for Boyle, political gain of others.” election day. Drop boxes will be Duboc and Winkler ... They He also labeled the quote at local schools supported by the STUDENTS and running in no time flat. have a plan to preserve and credited to Mr. Schlein on the foundation, in hopes that when continued from page 5 “Our generation understands improve our community — flier “a little ridiculous and mis- people go to school grounds to technology,” says Lauren Verity, without raising your taxes,” says leading,” as there is a utility tax vote, they will also give to the and 2,000 other poll workers, 17, of Menlo Park. “It was easy.” Mr. Schlein, on a flier paid for measure on the ballot. foundation, Ms. Rich said. staffing precincts in San Mateo She and her friend, Melanie Tal- and mailed to residents by the Laura Rich, who is presi- Maria Hilton, the other co- County on Tuesday, Nov. 7. akai, 17, of East Palo Alto, will both three candidates’ campaigns. dent of the school board and president of the foundation, In addition to M-A, local be eligible to vote in March. They Mr. Schlein could not be works regularly with the foun- is listed as a supporter of the high schools involved include say they look forward to partici- reached for comment before the dation board, said Mr. Schlein’s incumbent slate on campaign Woodside, Sacred Heart, Menlo pating as poll workers in the Nov. Almanac’s deadline. endorsement of the candidates literature paid for by the can- School, Sequoia, Mid-Peninsula 7 election. Although Mr. Schlein’s is within his rights. didates, but her role with the and East Palo Alto Academy. While Lauren admits she’s endorsement may help the three “It’s made clear on the flier foundation is not listed. The program to hire high school doing this for the $140, she candidates garner votes, par- that it’s [Mr. Schlein’s] personal John Boyle is also a member of seniors (they are paid $140 each) adds: “I think people who are 18 ents are questioning why the opinion,” said Ms. Rich. “[Mr. the foundation board. A aims to staff the voting operations, should vote. You can’t complain and to promote participation in about things if you don’t vote.” elections by young people. One of the measures she’s inter- CAMPAIGN about our chances.” Diane Martinelli, who teaches ested in is state Proposition 85, continued from page 5 On the other side, Mr. Robin- Recycle day an American government class at which would require a 48-hour son said: “The campaigning has at Acterra M-A that many of these students waiting period and parental noti- Mary Gilles, who is working to been pretty tiring, but I think it’s are taking, says she is thrilled to fication for minors seeking abor- get the incumbent slate re-elect- really paid off. We’ve gotten a good The Environmental Vol- teach kids about voting. tions. “I don’t think parents should ed, said the flier is intended as response, and I like where we sit.” unteers invite one and “This was a good opportunity have to know,” Lauren says. a “rebuttal” to “previous union Although campaigning inten- all to drop off unused or to get involved and see how vot- Her friend Melanie disagrees: attacks” on candidates Duboc sified in recent days, Mr. Boyle unwanted electronics free ing works,” says Calvin Johnson, “Parents should always know and Winkler. and Mr. Robinson noted that on Thursday, Nov. 9, from 9 18, of Menlo Park. what kids are doing.” a lot of votes have already been a.m. to noon, at the parking He is now eligible to vote, This is an example of the civic Last push cast. lot at Acterra, 3921 E. Bay- and says it’s a big responsibility: engagement that Sarah Carrade, The six candidates and “A lot of votes are already in shore Road in Palo Alto. “This marks my entrance into community program specialist their supporters campaigned and done, because of the high Items, working or not, can adulthood. Now I have to know and outreach worker with the throughout the weekend, and percentage of absentee ballots,” include computers, scanners, what’s going on.” elections office, likes to see. both sides expressed cautious said Mr. Robinson, when cam- copiers, stereos, cable, game During the poll worker training “I’m passionate about getting optimism. paigning on San Mateo Drive on systems, test equipment, bat- session at M-A, he teamed with students involved,” she says. “Over “It’s been a pretty aggressive Saturday. “But any small inter- tery chargers, cartridges, and another student to put together the 100 students are participating as campaign by everybody,” said action with voters can translate more. For information, call new eSlate electronic voting booth. poll workers from South County Mr. Boyle. “Going door to door into a big difference in a close Sue Trautman at 961-0545 or The students had the machines up alone.” A and talking to people, I feel good election.” go to evols.org.
8 ■ The Almanac ■ November 8, 2006 NEWS
Portola Valley, Woodside may )NTERNATIONAL 3CHOOL OF THE 0ENINSULA (650) 251-8504 • www.istp.org get $2 million from county Palo Alto, CA ■ San Mateo County offers the money audit. However, the towns dis- to settle a property tax dispute. covered that at least two pre- 9ÕÊ«ÀÃi`ÊÌ vious audits “had not been By David Boyce checks in the mail, is an echo resolved,” said Portola Valley }ÛiÊÌ iÊÌ iÊ Almanac Staff Writer of last November. The County Town Attorney Sandy Sloan in ÜÀ`° Controller’s Office sent Portola a memo to the Town Council. arge checks from the San Valley and Woodside checks for The four towns began negotia- Mateo County treasury about the same amount in a late tions by asking for four years of ÜÊÞÕÊV>° Lwill be forthcoming to four acknowledgment — 17 years late back payments, from 1999-00 towns — including Portola Val- — of a 1988 state law that guar- to 2002-03, said Ms. Howard. “I ley and Woodside — if their anteed the towns a 7 percent truly believe that if we said we respective Town Councils agree to share of property tax revenues wanted anything more, we’d have settle a year-long dispute with the from their jurisdictions. ended up in court,” she said. “We county over property tax revenues For years, Portola Valley has felt comfortable that that was a the towns say they are owed. reasonable amount to expect.” #RJ?LC?H=? -NB?L !OFNOL?M 5CNB 3M.URSERY TH 'RADE Portola Valley would receive The talks produced a compro- "ILINGUAL )MMERSION 3CHOOL about $900,000 and Woodside mise. The county would pay for &RENCH %NGLISH OR #HINESE %NGLISH $1.2 million, with Half Moon Bay ‘The strong thing we the budget years 2001-02 and and Colma also receiving checks. had going for us is that 2002-03, plus about $100,000 #HINESE %NGLISH &RENCH %NGLISH The Portola Valley Town that had been deducted from the )NFORMATION .IGHT )NFORMATION .IGHT Council is scheduled to vote on we realized early earlier payments, Ms. Howard .OVEMBER AT 0- .OVEMBER AT 0- the settlement at its 8 p.m. meet- on that it was more said. ing on Wednesday, Nov. 8, in the In keeping with the 1988 law, Historic Schoolhouse. to our advantage the towns will receive annual The negotiation with the county to work together payments boosting their prop- “was not a very contentious pro- erty tax revenues to the 7 percent cess,” Portola Valley Town Admin- (with the other towns).’ target. For Portola Valley, that’s istrator Angela Howard said. “The ANGELA HOWARD, TOWN an increase of about $400,000 a The Tree is up! strong thing we had going for us ADMINISTRATOR, PORTOLA VALLEY year on typical yearly revenues is that we realized early on that it of $5 million. Shop, eat, get into the holiday spirit! was more to our advantage to work The towns also wanted a 7 together (with the other towns).” received 4 percent of its prop- percent interest rate on the Best selection of beautiful ornaments In Woodside, the Town Coun- erty tax revenues and Woodside money owed them, but settled cil will study the matter in about 5.7 percent. for what the county earns on its closed session on Nov. 14, said Last year’s checks from the investments, about 4 percent, The Traditional Shop Town Manager Susan George, county covered revenues owed Ms. Howard said. Monday thru Saturday • 10:00AM - 5:00PM adding that she couldn’t discuss the towns for the 2003-04 and The four towns are sharing its details until the council had 2004-05 budget years. But with the costs for the outside attor- All Nov thru Dec 17 considered it. 15 years of payments unac- ney hired for the negotiations, Sunday • NOON - 5:00PM “I’m hopeful that an agree- counted for, the town attorneys but the “insignificant” fee ment with the county will be argued that the county owed didn’t even reach the cap of reached very soon,” she said. more. $17,000 for all four towns, Ms. The county replied that they Howard said. A Late payments owed nothing because state The possibility of a settle- law protected old records from — Almanac reporter Andrea ment, with the prospect of large review if they had passed an Gemmet contributed to this story. Menlo man sentenced to four years in prison By Alexandria Rocha sexual relations with an under- I wish I had been stronger at the Palo Alto Weekly age girl starting when she was 14 time. ormer Jordan Middle in late 1991. “I’m affected by it every hour School teacher and coach The victim, now in her late 20s and every day — I’m not making FBill Giordano, a resident and living in Pennsylvania, said that up,” he said. of Menlo Park, was sentenced to her sexual encounters with Mr. A psychological profile of Mr. four years in prison Nov. 3 for Giordano began in December Giordano by Dr. David Berke of having sexual relations with a 1991 after he hired her to baby- San Mateo concluded that Mr. young girl from 1991 to 1994. sit his son, according to Steve Giordano has “predatory and “You’ve betrayed many people Wagstaffe, San Mateo County pedopheliac” type behavior. and took advantage of a posi- deputy district attorney. Mr. Giordano joined the Palo tion of trust and leadership,” San “I’m deeply sorry,” Mr. Gior- Unified School District as a Mateo County Superior Court dano told the judge Nov. 3. teacher in 1978, and became a Judge James Ellis told Giordano “There’s no question that what I teacher at Jordan Middle School when he announced the sentence did was wrong. I’m deeply sorry. in 1991. A in the Redwood City courtroom. Mr. Giordano had entered Allied Arts Guild a no contest plea to 10 counts YOUR SOURCE FOR 75 Arbor Road (at Cambridge) of child molestation as part of LOCAL INFORMATION Menlo Park a plea bargain that provided a maximum sentence of five years 650.325.3259 in prison. www.alliedartsguild.org Mr. Giordano was arrested at his Menlo Park home on Aug. Benefiting Lucile Salter Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford 18, 2005, on charges of having www.AlmanacNews.com
November 8, 2006 ■ The Almanac ■ 9 NEWS Challenge to Derry referendum? Titus pleads guilty to fraud ■ Developer may argue referendum ■ MENLO PARK Vivian Michelle Titus of counts of embezzlement. signatures are invalid, said city attorney. Woodside, a former banking She was a senior vice presi- the two ordinances, including executive charged with bank dent at Mid-Peninsula Bank By Rory Brown comment on a potential chal- the approval of the project, or fraud and embezzlement of from 1996 to 2003, and a man- Almanac Staff Writer lenge of the referendum. refer the ordinances to the vot- $700,000, has pleaded guilty aging director at First Republic n an effort to halt a referen- The San Mateo County Elec- ers in an election. A final count to one count of bank fraud. Bank in 2003 and 2004. dum campaign against the tions Office is examining refer- is expected to be finished by the Ms. Titus, 43 at the time of Ms. Titus is accused of forg- IMenlo Park “Derry” condo- endum petitions to see whether county and announced by the her arrest last June, is scheduled ing bank customers’ signa- commercial project, the devel- there are the 1,850 verified city no later than Nov. 27. to be sentenced Feb. 20, 2007, tures to arrange two $250,000 oper behind the project may signatures required to proceed in U.S. District Court in San lines of credit and to withdraw challenge the validity of the with the referendum on two Two challenges Jose. a 200,000 cashier’s check from signature drive. ordinances: one rezoning the In conversations with the city, She could be sentenced to another customer’s account. Representatives from the San Derry site for the 134-condo- the O’Brien Group has discussed a maximum of 30 years in She allegedly used the money Mateo-based O’Brien Group minium project and the other two potential challenges to the prison, be fined $1 million, for a down payment on an have yet to file a written chal- changing the zoning language for referendum drive, Mr. McClure and ordered to pay restitution, Atherton home, loan pay- lenge to the city, but City Attor- the property next door at 1300 El said. said Luke Macaulay, a Depart- ments and personal use. ney Bill McClure said the com- Camino Real. One claim is that the refer- ment of Justice spokesman. To hide account statements pany has “raised legal questions” The referendum was spear- endum proponents did not She remains free on bail. from a customer whose name regarding the referendum. He headed by the residents’ group include a specific notice that In exchange for the guilty she used, Ms. Titus arranged said he expects some kind of Menlo Park Tomorrow. Group state elections code requires to plea, entered Oct. 5, federal for bank statements to be sent written challenge to be submit- spokesperson Morris Brown said be included on the referendum prosecutors agreed to drop two to a post office box in Redwood ted to the city. the group has more than 2,400 petitions, Mr. McClure said. counts of bank fraud and three City, the indictment says. Jim Pollart, vice president signatures. The other claim focuses on and spokesperson for the If there are enough verified sig- the land use designation for the O’Brien Group, would not natures, the council must rescind proposed project site — a 3.4-acre property near the intersection of Tickets El Camino Real and Oak Grove On Sale Now! Avenue. Ed[e\7c[h_YWÉi=h[Wj[ijJh[Wikh[i The referendum focused solely on challenging changes to the iloli city’s zoning to allow high- density residential projects on f the proposed site, and a partial zoning of the neighboring site at 1300 El Camino Real. The >EB?:7OJH7:?J?EDI O’Brien group has suggested that because the general plan amendment was not challenged =? SOUND PERFECTION invites you to join us as one of the few Pioneer Elite Dealers in the country to host an Annual Pioneer PureVision Tour. Our customers will be able to purchase some of the newest state-of-the-art Pioneer Elite products including the new Pioneer Elite 1080p. See a preview of the new Blu-ray Disc Player. Pioneer representatives will be on-site for demonstrations and advice. THREE DAYS ONLY! Friday, Saturday & Sunday - November 1O-12th Get 1O% OFF ALL PIONEER ELITE PRODUCTS Mention this ad for a chance to Come see the new Pioneer Elite WIN a FREE Pioneer DVR recorder 1080p Plasma (PRO-FHD1) and other great prizes! Sound Perfection: 700 El Camino Real, Menlo Park, CA 94025 • 650-323-1000 • www.soundperfection.com 10 ■ The Almanac ■ November 8, 2006 NEWS Urban forest in Menlo Park is green but growing fragile ■ Culling of older trees called necessary to ensure a healthy canopy in the future. By David Boyce to public safety, he said. Almanac Staff Writer The city has had a program in place for decades, but limited enlo Park loves trees. funding has reduced culling They’re on logos for the to trees considered immanent Mcity, the school district dangers, Ms. Dryer said. With and the police department. The 4,300 trees on the city’s watch Chamber of Commerce uses an list, about $2.8 million — $650 acorn in its logo. For 10 years, the per tree — will be needed to cut National Arbor Day Foundation down and replace them. has named Menlo Park an official To prepare a report for the City tree city. On neighborhood streets, Council for next year’s budget, a once youthful trees have grown to pilot project is under way to evalu- create a sheltering green canopy. ate trees, talk to the public, replace And therein lies a problem, said trees as necessary, and work out Dianne Dryer, the environmental a long-term gradual reforesta- programs coordinator for the city tion plan for Menlo Park’s urban of Menlo Park. Many of the 20,000 forest. “Looking down the street, deciduous street trees — those you shouldn’t be able to see any The Almanac/David Boyce located in public right-of-way — change if it’s properly done,” Mr. Big deciduous trees in Menlo Park’s urban forest are in trouble, said consulting arborist Barrie D. Coate at were planted in the 1950s as part of Coate told the Almanac. an outdoor community meeting on Saturday morning, Nov. 4. The city may begin to systematically cut down new subdivisions. As they advance The pilot project includes and replace aging trees. into their 50s and 60s together, some 156 homes and 370 street these trees are growing vulnerable trees in an area north of Santa it is judged dangerous, she said. and present a safety issue over the Cruz Avenue on parts of Cotton Taking an old tree down “is next five to 10 years, she said. and Hobart streets, Hillview, hard for people to swallow,” Ms. Older trees can appear healthy, Hesketh and Politzer drives and Dryer said. “I know the emotion IN HER SHOES and be healthy, while also losing Valparaiso Avenue. because I love trees. But I also All profi ts to benefi t limbs, said Barrie D. Coate, a Of the 370 trees, about 30 know that if we don’t do some- consulting arborist to the city of are scheduled to be cut down thing to replace these trees, Menlo Global Fund for Women Menlo Park, during a neighbor- between Nov. 20 and the end Park will not look as lovely in 20 hood walk on Saturday. Nov. 4. of the year. A homeowner can years. That’s the sad reality.” The city should be culling a few take a tree off the list by calling Some Menlo Park trees are not FREE trees at a time to avoid bare spots or e-mailing Ms. Dryer before meant for this climate, Mr. Coate in the canopy if several trees on Thursday, Nov. 9, but the city PEDICURE the same street become a threat reserves the right to remove it if See TREES, page 17 Month of November Tree culling plan draws support, criticism Please call for appointment 650-326-9611 • Fax 650-326-9616 Residents in a West Menlo an interview, he said residents when replanting is optimal.) 644 Emerson St., Suite 100, Palo Alto Park neighborhood had mixed were “willing to live with” the Other residents supported www.inhershoespa.com • [email protected] reactions to the city’s pilot possibility that their street could the plan. “The people on these project to replace certain aging be denuded of its canopy if the streets are getting the benefit of deciduous street trees with ash trees had to be removed en decisions made 30 or 40 years younger varieties considered less masse. ago,” said John Fox of Elder )&