THE OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS DECEMBER 2014 5 6 8 11 Youth Exploring Choosing Dog Park Commission Mars a School Opens

WATERSHEDS BY THE NUMBERS

NUMBER OF WATERSHEDS IN LOS ALTOS HILLS 4 NUMBER OF NAMED CREEKS 12 NUMBER OF REGULATORY AGENCIES THAT PROTECT CREEKS 6 Vital Watersheds MILES OF CREEKS herever we travel on the landscape, we are in a watershed 17 and whatever we do affects a watershed. See if you can MINIMUM SETBACK (IN FEET) FROM identify which of the four watersheds in Los Altos Hills you CREEKS IN TOWN W spend time in. Here is a hint: the watersheds are named for the primary 25 creek stem that carries water to the bay: Permanente, Adobe, Barron, and Matadero. Our watersheds include stream types ranging from a paved channel to a mature riparian woodland, and land that supports large areas of natural vegetation as well as urban development.

[CONTINUED ON PAGE 2] The better people treat the land within the watershed, the less chance there will be fiscal and social costs associated with pollution and reduced water flows downstream.

What is a Watershed? PRIMARY CREEKS IN LOS ALTOS HILLS A watershed is a geographic area usually demarcated by mountains. Water flows BAY downhill, gradually collecting into tribu- taries that contribute to the main creek PALO ALTO k stem. The watershed may extend from ee ro Cr de k ta ee mountaintops to the mouth of a river; Ma rron Cr it may also contain sub-watersheds for Ba each tributary. It is important to think k k

about creeks in terms of their watershed ee ee k

k 101 because everything that happens within Adobe Cr

ee anente Cr 82 ee the watershed, regardless of location, can rm MTN. Pe

VIEW ens Cr impact the creek. A holistic, “watershed,” Cr Deer Felt Lake LOS approach to creeks provides the best Stev ALTOS protection for water quality, vegetation, k ee wildlife, and the human environment. LOS ALTOS 280 Hale Cr HILLS Why Care About a Watershed? Diversion Channel The shortest answer is that everything accumulates downstream. Although in the broadest sense we are in the watershed of and the Pacific Ocean, it is important to follow what is happening upstream. The better people treat the land within the watershed, the less chance there will be fiscal and social costs associated SANTA with pollution and reduced water flows SAN Stevens CLARA Creek downstream. Watersheds also provide MATEO Reservoir COUNTY habitat that benefits both wildlife and COUNTY humans. That is why there are several state and federal agencies that monitor direct impacts to creeks, aside from local 9 governance: the Regional Water Resources Control Board, the California Department of Fish and control flooding impacts and allow the has seven tributary creeks, and is a Wildlife, the U.S. Army Corps of growth of neighborhoods in Mountain natural channel until near El Camino Engineers, the National Marine Fisheries View and Palo Alto. That dramatically Hospital. Downstream to the bay it Service, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife changed the dynamics of the watersheds, mostly flows through a paved channel. Service. Any project that directly affects affected the ability of wildlife to connect In the upper watershed, it provides a waterway or the vegetation immedi- to the bay, and reduced the wildlife cold freshwater habitat for fish and ately adjacent to it could be subject to diversity in Los Altos Hills. amphibians; fish spawning habitat; and permits or other authorizations governed supports the California red-legged frog, by these agencies, and stiff fines can be Local Watersheds and Creeks levied for non-compliance. Permanente Creek originates in the Watersheds have also directly influ- Permanente Creek near Black enced local history. Adobe Creek, for Mountain and Montebello Ridge. It example, once provided an abundance flows through unincorporated Santa of wildlife and plants for the Clara County lands for about five Native American tribe, and as a result miles, then flows through Los Altos there are prehistoric artifacts in that and Mountain View to reach the San watershed that we are now required Francisco Bay. One of its main tribu- to care for. In the past, the water taries is , which is located that flowed in narrow creeks in our south of by the Neary hills spread out in the flatter areas Quarry and flows to Magdalena Avenue and changed course annually, so that and across Foothill Expressway into flooding was unpredictable. Within the Los Altos. The Permanente Creek last 75 years most of the creeks were watershed covers 17.3 square miles, channelized downstream in order to

2 Our Town | December 2014 a federally-listed threatened species, in the upper watershed. It is also defined property, they are on track for caring by the Regional Water Quality Control for the watershed. The water quality in Board as impaired by urban pesticides most of the creeks in the Bay Area are (Diazinon, an organophosphate banned compromised by pesticides and trash, from residential use in 2004), selenium, and creeks can also be adversely affected and trash. when water carries more soil than usual Adobe Creek has a rich cultural downstream because vegetation has history, and several shell mounds and been removed (erosion). One property’s burial grounds of the Ohlone people effects are small, but the cumulative have been found along its banks near drainage channels and directed to enter effect with other properties is large. The Moody Road and O’Keefe Lane (see the Adobe Creek near the Palo Alto Flood best way to protect everything down- Wikipedia report on Adobe Creek for Basin. It drains three square miles of the stream is to minimize pesticide use, take more historical information). It starts hills around Town Hall and is the most care of trash or any loose object in one’s near Black Mountain and drains about modified creek in our area; more than yard that could be carried away by water, 11 square miles, flowing as a natural creek 60 percent of the creek channel is paved. and be mindful of vegetation removal through the Hidden Villa Ranch, Foothill When there are heavy storms, the flood and the need for erosion control during College, and Shoup control basin at construction projects. Park, under Edith Avenue, under Foothill is used to divert Barron Creek flows Expressway, and past the Alta Mesa into through a bypass Cemetery toward El Camino Real. It is channel. Barron Creek has supported controlled in a concrete-lined channel chorus frogs in the past, but when the from El Camino to the Palo Alto Flood creek flows only with irrigation runoff Basin. It was historically a perennial creek the water contains chloramines, which (it flowed year-round), and was fished frogs cannot tolerate. That effect is diluted with storm water flows. The Matadero Creek watershed includes land in both Los Altos Hills and Palo Alto. Matadero Creek origi- nates near Altamont Road, and flows along Page Mill Road, across Stanford lands to El Camino Real. From there it is channelized and its flow is controlled through Palo Alto to the Palo Alto Flood Basin. It is eight miles long and drains 14 square miles of land. Deer Creek Matadero Creek in Los Altos Hills is a major tributary that starts along Purissima Road near Enjoying Watersheds the Little League fields and captures Several of the creeks in town can be water from portions of Purissima Road enjoyed recreationally. Most of them and Elena Road. Deer Creek flows into are bordered by pathways along some Matadero Creek at Deer Creek Road on Adobe Creek portion of their reach. Many can be Stanford lands. This watershed provides accessed directly for a “creek walk” in habitat for the California red-legged the channel to experience that habitat. for steelhead as recently as the 1970s. frog, a federally-listed threatened species. Refer to the map on the previous page to Steelhead is now a federally-listed threat- identify which creek is in your neighbor- ened species in the San Francisco Bay and Caring for Watersheds hood so that you can be aware of your on the San Mateo coast, and although If residents think about what the rain connection to the watershed, which may a run could potentially be restored with or irrigation can carry away from their also represent a connection to neigh- a lot of work, Adobe Creek does not boring communities and the south bay currently support steelhead. as a whole. Barron Creek originates from the hills around La Paloma Road in Los FUN FACTS Taylor Vanderlip is an environmental consultant Altos Hills and flows along La Paloma, specializing in biological issues. under residential development along • It was possible to fly fish Adobe Fremont Road to St. Francis Drive, Creek for steelhead into the 1970s. where it daylights and flows again as TO LEARN MORE: • Different names for streams are used a natural stream to Arastradero Road, Visit the following websites to across America. Examples are kill, under Foothill Expressway to the flood learn more about local watersheds: run, crick, creek, arroyo, wash. www.valleywater.org/Services/ control basin at Gunn High School, WatershedInformation.aspx, www. and into Bol Park in the Barron Park • Even when a creek bed is dry, it is museumca.org/creeks/MapPA.html. A brochure titled neighborhood. After that the creek is possible that the creek is flowing “Creeks and Riparian Areas” can be found on the town’s website. controlled through culverts and paved underground. It all depends on the level of water in the underground aquifer. That is why some dry creek beds still support trees that are not drought-tolerant. Our Town | December 2014 3 TOWN HALL

FROM THE CITY MANAGER

n September 16, 2014, California joined more than 20 other states that have taken steps to improve traffic safety and reduce O vehicle-related injuries by requiring drivers to give bicyclists a 2015-23 three-feet buffer zone when passing. Housing Element The Three Feet for Safety Act establish territories like other predators. requires a driver who passes a cyclist The presence of free-roaming dogs in Update traveling in the same direction to keep the Preserve during the time of the year the vehicle at least three feet when coyotes are likely to be raising very eight years, state law away from the cyclist. As is their young put the coyotes on high alert requires that the Housing often the case in town with our and provoke their warning behavior. The Element be updated. The narrow winding streets, if traffic City of Palo Alto also restricts dogs on E Housing Element is a required or roadway conditions prevent a certain trails in the Arastradero Preserve section of the Town’s General motorist from giving three feet of clearance, the driver must Plan that deals with the planning “slow to a speed that is reason- and development of housing Carl Cahill able and prudent” and only pass in Los Altos Hills. The current when the cyclist will not be in danger. update of the Housing Element is Drivers violating the law will receive a for the 2015-23 planning period. ticket of at least $238. If a bicyclist is Town staff is currently in the injured, the citation can total $982. process of updating statistical Traffic safety is a shared responsi- data, policies, and programs bility. A common complaint heard from to meet new state guidelines. residents is that some bicyclists will ride Therefore, the Planning Depart- in three or four abreast blocking the ment is interested in residents’ full travel lane and refuse to move over. opinions and comments Cyclists can do their part by remem- when there is a chance of conflict. regarding potential new policies bering to obey the rules of the road and These closures are temporary measures stop or move over when it is safe to do meant to protect people and their dogs to address the town’s “fair share” so if there are five or more cars behind as well as the coyotes. Similar to Palo of regional housing needs, as them. For more information about the Alto, the restricted area for dog walking well as the future needs of Three Feet for Safety Act, visit the Cali- was just one portion of Byrne Preserve. residents. In order to obtain fornia Department of Motor Vehicles It was not a ban on the entire Preserve. feedback, a questionnaire was website at: www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/vctop/ At this time, the temporary closure mailed out to residents and an d11/vc21760.htm signs have been removed and no initial community meeting was coyote/dog conflicts have been reported Coyotes in Byrne Preserve held on November 20. Thank you in at least 30 days. The town hosted to all residents who attended This past summer the town a public education forum on the meeting and provided temporarily closed a trail in coyotes and a video of the forum: comments. Based on comments Byrne Preserve to dogs. The http://vimeo.com/86606163. The reason for this temporary prohi- town will continue to enforce received from the public, staff bition was to protect its leash law and violators will propose modifications to Byrne Preserve trail will be cited. However, to the document and present the users after the town mitigate the problem in changes at future community received reports of a positive way, the City meetings. Notices for those one or more coyotes Council has autho- meetings will be printed in behaving aggressively rized the construction the and toward dogs. This of a basic dog park on posted on the town’s website. If behavior was precip- public property located you have any questions on the itated by repeated at the corner of Elena Housing Element update or want instances of dog and Purissima Roads. to be included on a notification owners allowing Residents now have their dogs to roam a place to let their list, please contact the Planning the Preserve off dogs play and roam Department at 941-7222, leash in violation off-leash with other or e-mail Steve Padovan at of the town’s dogs (see page 11). [email protected]. leash law. Coyotes

4 Our Town | December 2014 Youth Commission

Guest speaker San Jose City Councilmember Ash Kalra discusses the importance of he Los Altos Hills Youth Commission (LAHYC), entrepreneurship and leadership in local government at the Leadership Conference held established in 2013, is comprised of 18 to 20 Los earlier this year at the Dana Center at Hidden Villa. TAltos Hills teens who enjoy working together to make Los Altos Hills a youth-friendly environment. Vice-chair One of the Youth Commission’s most popular events is A.J. Uppal, a member since 6th grade, explains, “The Youth the annual Leadership Conference that is held in the Spring. Commission’s purpose is to represent Los Altos Hills teens in The conference is aimed at teens who want to make the world local government and to engage the youth of Los Altos Hills a better place. The LAHYC leaders choose a main topic for through activities and volunteer events.” To join the organiza- the Leadership Conference, then turn to the members to tion teens must be residents of Los Altos Hills, must be in solicit ideas for speakers. Each member submits two to three grade level 6 to 12, have attended one meeting, and volun- potential speakers along with their contact information. The teered at one event prior to submitting their application. The group then votes to arrive at two to four discussion speakers applicant is interviewed by members of the Youth Commission and a keynote speaker. Last year, the topic was entrepreneur- and, if there is space, members vote for the applicant to be ship, and the subtopics were environmental entrepreneurship, appointed by the City Council. leadership and entrepreneurship in local government, and The LAHYC holds its election each year in August. technical entrepreneurship. The keynote speaker was Former The current LAHYC leadership consists of co-chairs Vamsi California State Senator Joe Simitian. The discussion speakers Gadiraju (a senior at The Harker School) and Sonia Uppal included Raju Indukuri, CEO of Mtuity, and Ash Kalra, (a junior at Los Altos High School); vice-chair A.J. Uppal (a San Jose City Councilmember. The Leadership Conference freshman at Los Altos High School), and treasurer Caroline is broken up into five sessions: speaker presentations, Q&A, Steffens (a junior at Los Altos High School), along with staff small discussion groups, and an ice-breaker exercise, followed liaison Sarah Gualtieri, Community Services Supervisor. by the keynote speaker’s presentation. To keep the Leadership Members of the LAHYC volunteer for many of the Conference intimate, attendance is limited to 30 participants town-hosted events, like the Easter Egg Hunt, Town Picnic, who register for the event on a first-come basis. Hoedown, and the Barn Lighting. However, the organization The next event hosted by the organization will be Movie is best known for its three signature annual events: Movie Night on Friday, February 6, 2015, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at Night, the Halloween Monster Bash, and the Leadership Town Hall. Members of the LAHYC will decorate the Council Conference. LAHYC member Caroline Steffens talks about Chambers based on the theme of the movie and provide the benefits of attending these events, “What I love about snacks and beverages during the movie. The event is open these events is that it gives teens a chance to meet one another to all Los Altos Hills teens and their friends, even if they do — something that is a bit of a challenge living in a rural town not live in town. This event is also perfect for teens who have with no real gathering spots. Facebook is great for connecting recently moved into town and want to meet their peers. For virtually, but these events bring teens face to face, allowing us more information, email [email protected]. to work together and discover our common interests.”

Our Town | December 2014 5 EXPLORING

T H E REDPLANET MARS UR NEIGHBOR MARS is the planet that has intrigued humanity the most. It was named after the Roman god of war because its reddish soil gives Othe planet a bloody hue in the night sky. It’s the planet we have explored most closely, both from space and from the ground. Today, there are two rovers on the martian surface and a flotilla of spacecraft from different countries in orbit around it. Mars is only half the size of But when we see Mars Earth, and contains just a little today, it is as dry as dust. All over 10% of our planet’s mass. the old riverbeds are empty, These differences combine to sand has filled in many give Mars only 38% of Earth’s lakebeds, and the tempera- gravity. In other words, if you tures are much colder. What weighed 100 pounds on Earth, has made such a dramatic you would weigh only 38 change? pounds on Mars. Early tele- The answer is gravity. Little scopes showed Mars had an Mars could not hold on to its atmosphere, frozen ice at both thicker atmosphere. The air its poles, and a 24-hour day, slowly escaped into space, which led some to leap to the and reduced the pressure conclusion that it was similar over billions of years — until to the Earth. water could no longer be a But today we know a lot liquid. With less air pushing first deep more about our neighbor than down, there is less reason breath would also those early observers. Here’s for a liquid to stick together be your last, since the thin air is made mostly of carbon dioxide. The absence of an ozone layer would mean that nothing was filtering out the Sun’s ultraviolet rays. Overall, it’s not a place where humans could survive even briefly without significant protection. Still, scientists can imagine domed cities where visitors from Earth might live comfort- ably in the future, particularly in the warmer equatorial regions. Mars has great tourist attractions, including the largest volcano in the solar system. And the possibility Left: Mars as seen from the Indian Mars Orbiter and it becomes easier to turn exists that fossils of early Mars Mission, Sept. 28, 2014. Above: An artist’s concep- it into gas. This is just what life may yet survive deep in tion of the Mars Curiosity Rover on the planet, with happened on Mars. With the the soil, where future missions realistic views of the martian surface. Top right: may discover them. It’s no A selfie of the Mars Curiosity Rover (image is a falling air pressure, more and composite of several photos). more water became vapor. surprise then that the little The absence of air also red point of light in the sky the story that our explora- cooled Mars, because a still intrigues dreamers and tion has uncovered about the blanket of air allows a planet scientists, as it did thousands history of Mars. There is ample to store up the heat of the of years ago. evidence in Martian rocks Sun. As Mars cooled, water and minerals that billions of also froze into the soil and the years ago, Mars had a thick ice caps, leaving the Martian Andrew Fraknoi atmosphere. With significant surface (and any possible life is Professor of air pressure (and heat from forms) high and dry. Astronomy at Foothill the Sun), water on Mars was a Today, the air pressure on College. Starting liquid and could make rivers Mars is less than one percent in January he will teach and lakes. Planetary scientists of Earth’s pressure, and the Astronomy 10A, an evening now believe Mars could even average temperature is in the class on “Planets for Poets” — have experienced the first minus-60-degrees-Fahrenheit introducing the solar system in stirrings of life. range. On the surface, your everyday language. Community members are welcome. isit a local public school today and you might say, “This is not what I remember.” Desks no longer sit in neat factory rows facing the blackboard. Students work V together — on the floor, at tables, outside, standing, switching rooms. Teachers still teach, but with an emphasis on small group work and individualized instruction. But do the schools perform well? Yes, local public schools are top performers. Choosing a School

t is common to find computers and other technology in Local High Schools in Top 1% in the Nation local classrooms, but technology is no longer the object In their 2014 study, Newsweek highlights 500 high schools Iof the lesson. “We need to move away from specifying across the that do the absolute best job of technology tools and products for specific, assigned uses,” preparing students for college. Newsweek produced two commented Katie Kinnaman, Principal of Gardner Bullis lists: America’s Top High Schools, and Beating the Odds - Elementary. “We should empower students to use any Top Schools for Low-Income Students. Local high schools tool at their disposal to accomplish their goal. They may ranked in the top 1% among the over 25,000 high schools need a computer, an iPad, a book, a breakout room with a in the United States on both lists. Not only do local schools whiteboard, makerspace/tinkering materials, etc. We need do a great job of preparing students for college, but they to unleash access to these and let students guide us.” beat the odds to close the achievement gap for low-income Many of the changes in education have been driven by students (rankings appear on the right). the need to educate all students — children of all socio- America’s Top High Schools 2014: economic backgrounds, both boys and girls, all ethnic Henry M. Gunn High School 38 groups, English learners, gifted kids, those with special Palo Alto High School 56 needs, regular students. Local public schools have high Los Altos High School 71 expectations for all students. Their progress in educating Mountain View High School 189 all students is reflected in high performance, excellent test scores, numerous awards, and top rankings. Beating the Odds 2014 - Top Schools For Low-Income Students: Today with so many choices, the hardest question in Henry M. Gunn High School 61 choosing a public school is which one? If your neighbor- Palo Alto High School 146 hood school is not the best choice, we have options. Los Altos High School 165 Parents should do their own research, talk with teachers, Mountain View High School 303 principals, and other parents to find the best fit for their children. The decision rests on which is the best school Three Local National Blue Ribbon Awards in 2014 for each person’s family. For more on local schools, visit Three local public schools have been awarded the National http://losaltoshillseducation.org. Blue Ribbon by the U.S. Department of Education in 2014. The National Blue Ribbon Schools Program recognizes Do You Know Your School District? public and private elementary, middle, and high schools If you are unsure of your schools of residence, check with based on their overall academic excellence or their one of the district offices. Late registrations can cause your progress in closing the achievement gaps among student student to be moved to another school or miss out on a subgroups. Every year the U.S. Department of Education school choice opportunity. seeks out and celebrates great American schools, schools Mountain View Los Altos School Districts demonstrating that all students can achieve to high levels. (MVLA & LASD): Which High School Serves Your Street: www.mvla.net/District/6632-School-Street-Search.html To locate your school of residence for grades K-8, “Our children will inherit a world much please contact the LASD Office at 650-947-1150. different than the one we inherited. Key to Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD): their success will be the ability to reason School Finder: http://schoolfinder.pausd.org/ critically, think creatively and maintain Note: PAUSD’s School Finder will report Nixon, Terman, Gunn for all of Los Altos Hills even if addresses are out adaptability. We believe our schools must of the Palo Alto school district area. not only support, but explicitly teach these skills. In the district we are creating learning environments that foster the opportunity to learn and apply these skills each day.” Alyssa Gallagher, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Community Partner, LASD “One of the core tenets of our program is teaching students about the interconnect- edness of the world around them, and we fundamentally believe that starts with inte- grating curriculum across different subject more than 50% of English learners speak languages other areas beginning in kindergarten.” than Spanish and/or at least three languages are spoken by 10% of English learners. Wanny Hersey, Superintendent/Principal, BCS “The international diversity of our student population is a daily reminder of how important it is for our students to be prepared to participate in a global economy,” said Mary Pat O’Connell, Principal at Lucille Nixon School. “We are 2014 National Blue Ribbon Awards: excited and challenged by the work underway to deepen Blach Junior High School, LASD students’ understanding and application of their knowledge , SCCOE , LASD in all content areas. We hold these expectations for all of our students whatever their socioeconomic status, ethnicity, Past National Blue Ribbon Awards: gender, or first language. As always, we will be most Bullis Purissima Elementary School, LASD (1992) successful when we partner effectively with our community.” Mountain View High School, MVLA (1989) Oak Avenue Elementary School, LASD (2012) Public School Options Palo Alto High School, PAUSD (1987) “The international diversity The local neighborhood schools are Santa Rita Elementary School, LASD (1992) all top-ranked schools. However, of our student population you may want to choose something is a daily reminder of how Alyssa Gallagher, Director of Strategic Initiatives and different. Community Partnerships for Los Altos School District important it is for our students (LASD) explains, “Our children will inherit a world much to be prepared to participate in Transfers Among Neighborhood different than the one we inherited. Key to their success Schools: a global economy.” will be the ability to reason critically, think creatively, and School districts allow students maintain adaptability. We believe our schools must not only Pat O’Connell, Principal, Lucile Nixon School to transfer to other neighborhood support, but also explicitly teach these skills. In the district, schools within their districts, if space we are creating learning environments that foster the oppor- is available. This is called an “intra-district transfer.” The tunity to learn and apply these skills each day.” high schools are very full, so these transfers require special Four Named Distinguished Schools in 2013-14 circumstances. The California State Board of Education gives the California Bullis Charter School: Distinguished School award to public schools within the As a public charter school with grades K-8 serving Santa state that best represent exemplary and quality educational Clara County, all residents of Los Altos Hills can apply to programs. Following a selection process, approximately five this school. Entrance is determined by lottery. Priority is percent of California schools are awarded this honor each given to siblings and residents living in the LASD area. To year. Elementary schools are in even years and middle and learn more, visit www.bullischarterschool.com. high schools in odd years.

2014 Elementary Distinguished Schools: Palo Alto Choice Schools: Bullis Charter, Santa Clara County Office of Education The Choice programs are Spanish Immersion (SI), Mandarin - Additional award for Exemplary Arts Education Program Immersion (MI), Structured Instruction (Hoover), School Covington Elementary, LASD Farm with project-based learning (Ohlone), and Young Fives. 2013 Middle and High School Distinguished Schools: Entrance to the Hoover, Ohlone, MI, and SI programs is Blach Junior High, LASD based upon lottery, which is held in March. If there is a Los Altos High, MVLA concurrent sibling that will be attending the program at the same time, the kindergarten student is placed in the “One of the core tenets of our program is teaching program and is not included in the lottery. All students who students about the interconnectedness of the world around submit applications for the Young 5s program are assessed them, and we fundamentally believe that starts with inte- by staff. Admission is not based upon lottery. The district grating curriculum across different subject areas beginning does not guarantee placement in the neighborhood schools in kindergarten,” said Wanny Hersey, Superintendent/ due to continued high enrollment. For details, visit: pausd. Principal at Bullis Charter School (BCS). “We are proud org/parents/programs/choice_schools.shtml. to have such a comprehensive visual and performing arts program that is fully integrated with our science and engi- Gardner Bullis Inter-District Transfer (IDT): neering curriculum, led by master teachers who can deftly Los Altos Hills students in Palo Alto Unified may attend the adapt the content to meet the needs of every student.” only public school in town. These IDT’s are considered “in district” students by LASD. This is a reversible transfer for Palo Alto Unified Top Performer for English Learners up to seven years. Students choosing the IDT for elemen- Palo Alto Unified was one of the top-four performers in the tary school continue to Terman and Gunn for middle state for English learners of diverse languages by Education school and high school. To find out how, visit: pausd. Trust-West. An English learner is a student who speaks a org/parents/registration/Transfers.shtml. primary language other than English and who lacks certain English-language skills. PAUSD’s category is defined as Heather Rose is chair of the Los Altos Hills Education Committee. PROFILE H enry Nesmith hen residents need to repair having my daughters work with me. As a Wsomething in their home, they often parent, having your children work side by head over to the True Value Hardware side with you is a joy. They always have store in downtown Los Altos. There they new and interesting ideas, but most of all will find the affable and helpful propri- they learn a lot about people. etor Henry Nesmith ready to talk them through the steps and find the hardware What is the toughest thing about owning and tools they need to complete just and managing your own store? about any do-it-yourself project. The sacrifices made to your time relative to your time with your family. Tell us a bit about yourself. I grew up in Kansas City with my parents Around 2007 you reorganized the store. and older sister. My father was in the A little over three years ago we closed House of Representatives and was also a down our decorative plumbing showroom real estate broker in Kansas and Missouri. store so my father in-law suggested in order to make more room for hardware My mom was originally from New York opening one. How hard could it be? We and items that people needed more. City and took care of my sister and me. I selected the True Value franchise since followed my older sister to Southern Cali- the Ace Hardware franchise at Rancho You always are introducing new products fornia for college and ended up getting a Shopping Center was already taken. and new tools in your store. How do you BA in Business Administration at Menlo select what to carry? College where I met my wife, Susan. First The building that houses your hardware I read a lot about new items and we listen we lived in Menlo Park, then Los Altos, store has a unique look and history. to our customers needs and that’s how before finally moving to Los Altos Hills Can you tell us about that? we add products. Twice a year we attend in 1991. We have two daughters, Nina, The building I’m in is actually three the True Value Hardware Convention a real estate agent at Sereno Group and buildings joined together. The corner where they showcase new products. I Ali, a senior at University of Colorado, with the ice cream cone shape on the roof also have a couple of employees that are Boulder. is the old Clint’s Ice Cream Store. After always looking for new items to carry in it closed it was converted into Le Midi, the store. What attracted you to live in Los a popular French Restaurant. When the Altos Hills? owner retired, I purchased that building. What are the 10 tools that every We were attracted to Los Altos Hills The second building was a tack store; homeowner should own? because my in-laws lived there, we and the third building housed an antique An emergency shut-off wrench to turn could purchase a larger property, and we shop, an empty office, and warehouse off gas and water; a 15-in-1 screw- enjoyed the town’s quiet ambiance. space for a local stationery store. driver; a hammer; duct tape; cutters/ scissors; channel lock pliers; a set of Tell us about your career path. You recently celebrated 30 years of allen wrenches; a measuring tape; a pipe I started working in Kansas when I was business. To what do you attribute wrench; and a utility knife. 16. One of my first jobs was retail, selling your success? clothing, where I learned a lot about I offer high-quality customer service and What is the most common repair that people and customer service. During my excellent products for my customers. We sends people into your store? college years, my wife and I started to assemble just about everything we sell. Water issues, whether it’s a toilet or flip houses so from that I gained a lot of For example, if you buy a BBQ from us, plumbing issue or irrigation. knowledge about the housing industry we put it together and will deliver it with and common fix-up and maintenance a full tank of propane. I have a superior When you are not managing your store, issues. staff that is extremely helpful to people what do you enjoy doing? and will take time with each and every I like to lead a healthy and active lifestyle Who was the most influential person customer to make sure they leave happy. by biking and working outdoors. in your career? And if something doesn’t work like it My father in-law. Because of his back- should, you can bring it back. I’ve learned Any advice for young people who are ground in business, he was able to pass that excellent customer service comes exploring career options? along a lot of advice and support. from wanting to have a closer commit- Get any job you can, it won’t be your last. ment to your customers —­ and if you It’s easier to get a job if you have a job. What was the inspira- don’t, you’re out of business. tion to open a hardware As you reflect on your 30 years in business, store? What do you enjoy the most about what makes you the most proud? Back in 1982, owning a hardware store? That I’ve been able to survive 30 years in downtown Los Altos It’s mine, and I can buy just about retail with the help of my family and loyal didn’t have a hardware anything I want. I have also enjoyed customers. ver the years, the Parks Dog Park Opens cutting ceremony on November 6. and Recreation Committee To help with infrastructure O (PRC) has received many and maintenance costs of the requests from residents to create new dog park, the town and the a dog park within town borders. PRD are kicking off a fundraiser. Thanks to the collaborative The Los Altos Hills Dog Park Tile Donation Campaign, to begin in December, is modeled on the successful Donor Wall project that City Council in mid-September. is open from sunrise to sunset raised funds for the new Town The dog park is located on a seven days a week, will serve as Hall site. Residents, especially town-owned, 1/3-acre lot at the a gathering place for residents pet owners, are invited to design southwest corner of Purissima and their canine companions, as and paint individual tiles. Two and Elena Roads, next to the well as provide a venue for dog sizes will be offered for purchase: town’s corporate yard. obedience classes offered by 4-inch tiles for $400 and 8-inch The committee’s goal was the town’s Parks and Recreation tiles for $800. The town will to create a natural dog park Department (PRD). The park partner with Create It!, a ceramic environment, consistent with was selected for its availability, efforts of the City Council, Parks studio located at the Town & the rural character of the town convenient location, easy access and Recreation Committee, staff, Country Shopping Center in Palo together with all the amenities by pathways, and nearby parking. and other volunteers, dogs can Alto, to help residents design and of a dog park — water, benches, Residents and their tail-wagging now run off-leash in the town’s paint tiles. Once all the tiles are garbage cans, and a MuttMitt dogs celebrated the opening first dog park. The plan submitted completed, they will be mounted bag dispenser. of the park at the ribbon- by the PRC was approved by the to the low cement wall directly in The park, which front of Town Hall Chambers. For more information about the Dog Park Tile Donation Campaign, contact Sarah Gualtieri, Community Services Supervisor, at 650-947-2518 or [email protected].

Holiday Heart Health he winter holiday season brings cooler weather, family 2. Manage your stress levels gatherings, and holiday celebrations with wonderful tradi- • Take a few moments to stretch, breathe in fresh oxygen to tional meals. However, studies show that there are distinct your heart and lungs, and clear your mind. Not only will it upticksT in the incidence of heart attacks and other less serious heart help you focus, it will lower your stress level, blood pressure, conditions during the winter season, especially around Christmas and heart rate. and New Year’s Day. Reasons for the seasonal increase are not well known, but it is very important to be mindful of your heart health 3. Do not ignore early warning signs of a heart attack. If you during this busy and potentially stressful time of the year. think you may be having a heart attack, call 911. By taking some simple steps and paying close attention to the • Know that women and diabetics do not always get the same choices you make, you can significantly improve your heart health classic “Hollywood heart attack” symptoms. and steer clear of heart problems during the holidays as well as • Heart attacks have beginnings that may include mild chest throughout the year. symptoms described as pressure, burning, aching or tightness. These symptoms may come and go until finally becoming 1. Eat heart healthy constant and severe. Heart attacks may also present with • Embrace fresh fruits and vegetables. Place more of them on discomfort that spreads to other areas of the upper body, your plate instead of meats that may contain an excess amount shortness of breath, nausea, heartburn, sweating, and of salt and bad fats. extreme fatigue. • Snack on unsalted nuts and seeds instead of holiday treats and baked goods. Nuts contain high amounts of monounsaturated Norma Melchor Heart & Vascular and polyunsaturated fat as well as antioxidants. Institute offers a free risk assessment to help you understand your • Prevent heartburn and avoid eating a large meal, which is heart health and what you can do to improve it: www.elcamino- known to be one of the triggers for angina, or chest discomfort. hospital.org/heart. At the end of the assessment, you will receive a printable report to discuss with your doctor.

Our Town | December 2014 11 www.losaltoshills.ca.gov Forestry InitiativeandForestry Stewardship Councildualcertification. Printed withsoy-basedinks. InternationalPaper, themanufacturerofpaper, hasearnedSustainable quarterly. the residentsandtowngovernment. The newsletterispublished town —tofacilitate, encourage, andimproveinteraction between services, andactivitiesinLos Altos Hillstotheresidentsof This istheofficialtownnewslettertocommunicatecurrentissues, Town NewsletterStatementofPurpose Deadline forthenextissueisJanuary 6, 2015. Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 26379 Fremont Road TOWN OFLOS ALTOS HILLS

CALENDAR clothesandbring warm heading outtocarol. Wear Recreation Buildingbefore cider intheParks and Joins usforcookiesand Caroling intheHills Thursday, 7:30–9:00pm 18 and winetasting. pony rides, pettingzoo, crafts, visitswithSanta, 2518 tosignup. and Arts perform. Call650-947- individuals areinvited to School groups and Holiday Lighting Barn Sunday, 1:00–4:00pm 7 Dec 650-947-2518. [email protected], morecontactsgual- learn residents. To registerand Jose. Tour isopentoall Inc.Recovery facilityinSan Tour theGreenWaste Tour Recyclables Processing Wed., 9:00-10:00am 21 650-625-3815. gmail.com orcall linkagestimebank@ contact information volunteer, andfurther cell phones. To register, computers, email, and social media, cameras, their questionsabout Seniors canbring Technology forSeniors Saturday, 1:00-4:00 pm 10 Jan 2015 2518. call650-947- information a flashlight. Formore Tay Vanderlip,Zhong Tiffany Gualtieri, ISRO, NASA, NinaNesmith, Deborah Padovan, Scott Vanderlip, Photography: Alexander Atkins, JitzeCouperus, KathyEvans, Sarah Contributing Writers: Sarah Gualtieri, AJ Uppal Associate Editor: GlenReed Editor: AlexanderAtkins and TownCommittees. Volunteer Our Town ispublishedwithassistancefromtheCityClerk, Deborah Padovan, Our Town

Design + Production: Alexander Atkins Design, Inc. Design, Atkins Alexander +Production: Design includes five fulldays of course Program! This Youth SkiandSnowboard Sign upforBlue Angles Saturdays intheSnow 24 650-941-7222. call 650-941-8073or please more information attheevent.be served For images. Refreshments will her stunningpainterly niques sheusestocreate also demonstratethetech- pher anartist. will Karlak what makes aphotogra- at Town Hall, willexplore work onexhibit iscurrently Susanne Karlak, whose photographer art Fine Painterly Photographs Thursday, 10:00am–noon 22 www.losaltoshills.ca.gov posted ontown’s website: Calendar events arealso 650-947-2518. contact more information Council Chambers. For located inthe Town Hall Hills teensandwillbe event forallLos Altos blankets. This isafree a sleepingbag, chair, Youth Commission. Bring by theLos Altos Hills This evening ishosted Teen MovieNight Friday, 7:00-9:00 pm 6 Feb 2518. toshills.ca.gov, 650-947- contact sgualtieri@losal- or formoreinformation off theslopes. To register onand sional supervision age-level-specific profes- Carl Cahill City Manager Gary Waldeck Rich Larsen John Harpootlian Courtenay Corrigan, Vice Mayor John Radford, Mayor Los Altos HillsCityCouncil Permit No. 306 Los Altos,CA Paid U.S. Postage StandardPresorted