Heritage tree falls in Menlo Park where plenty hear it Page 8
THE HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER FOR MENLO PARK, ATHERTON, PORTOLA VALLEY AND WOODSIDE
FEBRUARY 2, 2011 | VOL. 46 NO. 23 WWW.THEALMANACONLINE.COM
From child laborer to child benefactor, Gladys Martines helped develop Woodside’s extensive system of horse trails Section 2 Michelle Le/The Almanac Michelle apr.com
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2 N The Almanac N February 2, 2011 UPFRONT St. Raymond principal to leave, but not without a few suggestions By Miranda Simon Special to the Almanac
’m not exactly a spring chicken,” said Sister Ann Bernard the day after she announced ‘Ishe planned to leave St. Raymond, a Cath- olic K-8 school in Menlo Park, where she has served as principal for 16 years. Sister Bernard is 72 years old and has been in $ the education field for 52 of them. She was the 100 Off a 12 week or more program assistant superintendent at the Diocese of San Jose before she became principal at St. Raymond. Still, when she announced Jan. 25 that she would leave at the end of the academic year, she didn’t mean retirement. /B/AB3=4B63>3<7
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4 N The Almanac N February 2, 2011 M ENLO PARK | ATHERTON | WOODSIDE | PORTOLA V ALLEY Pension reform may be delayed a year or more
By Sandy Brundage take effect until March 2012. ■ MENLO PARK Almanac Staff Writer Menlo Park appears to have three options: A hiring freeze. Mayor says he won’t support hiring ‘a bunch of new he celebratory buzz that over three years. Outsourcing to contractors. Or people’ with the higher pension benefit. followed the passage of Under this measure, a new hire continue hiring at the old pension TMeasure L by a whopping who retired at age 60 after work- rates, which the city can’t afford to 72 percent of voters in November ing for the city for 30 years would sustain. runs the risk of owing back tax- to the competitive store?” died down in Menlo Park after receive 60 percent of that average Council members Kirsten Keith es. The position can’t be elimi- Echoing that reasoning at the voters realized approval was only salary. Current employees can and Peter Ohtaki asked staff to nated, he said, because of the Jan. 27 budget meeting, Mayor the first step in a pension reform retire at age 55 and get 81 percent. examine outsourcing in neighbor- workload. “Right now there’s Rich Cline said he was very process that could take years. Henry Riggs, who helped bring ing communities to gauge how only one person supervising all sensitive to the 72 percent of The quandary: How to fill the Measure L to voters, said that well it might work in Menlo Park. tree crews,” he said. “That’s not voters who want the new pen- city’s 15 vacant positions when state law requires the city to Ms. Keith also questioned why the sustainable.” sion structure implemented now Menlo Park can’t legally imple- negotiate with the American city interviewed arborists on Jan. Mr. Riggs sent an e-mail to and are not happy about the city ment Measure L’s limits yet? Federation of State, County, and 25, a position advertised at $7,000 the council in December sug- advertising positions under the Measure L raised the mini- Municipal Employees (AFSCME) per month, while the higher ben- gesting a hiring freeze since the old structure. mum retirement age for new before it can impose lower ben- efits were still in place. city expressed a firm commit- “It seems like an affront to the public employees by five years efits. According to his research, Glen Rojas, city manager, ment to the new benefit struc- movement that just happened,” to 60, excluding police officers, if the bargaining ends in a stale- responded that contractors are ture. “Put another way, when he said. “I’m not going to give and also decreased maximum mate, and a contract is imposed, limited in what they can do you realize you are in the most you the answer, but I’ll tell you pension benefits by 0.7 percent- as happened last May with the before becoming public employ- expensive widget store in town, I’m not going to support hiring age points to 2 percent of their Service Employees International ees in the eyes of the Internal why would you buy one more and adding a bunch of new highest annual salary averaged Union (SEIU), the limits won’t Revenue Service. The city then widget before crossing the street people to the mix.” A Facebook scoops up Menlo Park properties
■ City finalizing paperwork for former Sun Micro campus sale. By Sandy Brundage tion to the council on Jan. 28. Almanac Staff Writer That’s as much information as anyone working for the city s rumors swirled about would reveal about Facebook’s social networking giant plans. AFacebook buying the for- The move could be a boon to mer Sun Microsystems campus San Mateo County. Larry Stone, in Menlo Park, the company qui- assessor for Santa Clara County etly bought 22 acres of business where Facebook currently pays property near the campus. taxes, said the value of the com- Facebook purchased 312 and pany is its exponential growth. 314 Constitution Drive — “Facebook from a property tax neighbors to the former Sun standpoint — their public pro- campus — on Dec. 27, 2010, via file is much more valuable. But an intermediary, Giant Proper- their growth is phenomenal,” he ties LLC, listed at an address said, and provided the following Facebook uses in Palo Alto, figures, good through Jan. 1, according to San Mateo County 2010: Photo by Dave Boyce/The Almanac databases. ■ In 2007: Facebook had an Meanwhile, “finalizing land assessed business property value A horizontal perspective use entitlements for a new ten- of $8.0 million, which includes This athlete on wheels glided up, down and around recently at Burgess Park in the Menlo Park Civic ant at Sun campus” appeared computers and other equip- Center. The painted darker surfaces hide graffiti on the five-year-old concrete skate park, whose 15,000 on the Menlo Park community ment. square feet includes three basins, ramps and a collection of above-ground concrete-and-metal surfaces development staff’s “to do” list that encourage feats of balance while in motion. during a city budget presenta- See FACEBOOK, page 8 Why some crimes in Portola Valley, Woodside have not been reported
By Dave Boyce in Portola Valley, Woodside, Ladera that his office had been reporting The Almanac reported eight prop- their paperwork, enough time had Almanac Staff Writer and unincorporated West Menlo only the crimes for which the depu- erty crimes in Portola Valley, but passed so that the incidents were no Park and crimes reported by The ties had completed the paperwork a summation received from the longer considered news, Lt. Lunny s some residents of Por- Almanac. — an oversight since corrected, he Sheriff’s Office shows 13 property said. tola Valley have discovered, Sheriff’s Office media spokesman said. crimes — four additional thefts and Under the policy now in effect, Athere’s been a mismatch Lt. Ray Lunny oversees the once-a- Portola Valley residents had an additional auto burglary. he said, the report will include between crimes entered in the week crime report e-mailed to The expressed concern to The Alma- The unreported incidents tended the basic facts of every incident, records of the San Mateo County Almanac. Asked to explain the nac about incidents not reported. to stay unreported because by Sheriff’s Office as having happened missing incidents, Lt. Lunny said In December 2010, for example, the time deputies had finished See CRIMES, page 8
February 2, 2011 ■ The Almanac ■ 5 NEWS
Park advocates oppose 1,000-tree plan Homeless shelter to close By Sandy Brundage to help the city find alternate ways N MENLO PARK on VA campus in Menlo Almanac Staff Writer to improve the former landfill that would still preserve its open-space By Sue Dremann plan to plant 1,000 trees to first conduct an environmental character and wildlife habitat. Embarcadero Media unstable and the VA planned to in Bedwell Bayfront Park impact review (EIR). Rebecca Fotu, environmental add sports fields and recreational Ato reduce carbon dioxide Alan Bedwell, son of former city programs manager, explained lara-Mateo Alliance, facilities for its veterans. has stirred concern among the manager Mike Bedwll, for whom that the application’s February a shelter for homeless Clara-Mateo Alliance has 70 park’s advocates. the park is named, described the deadline didn’t leave enough Cfamilies and single adults, beds and approximately 67 per- The Menlo Park City Council time for an EIR. She also located on the campus of the VA cent of its single residents are voted 3-2 on Jan. 25 with Kirsten pointed out adjustments already Medical Center in Menlo Park, veterans. It was opened in 1999 Keith and Andy Cohen dissent- Friends of the park made to the plan in response to will be phased out over three on the grounds of the VA Medi- ing, to proceed with a state grant public concerns, such as hiring months and will close April 30, cal Center on Willow Road. application for $350,000 to cover spoke against the an expert to measure soil depth its parent organization InnVision It is also home to the Elsa the costs of planting the trees and plan, wondering why to see whether trees could be announced Jan. 26. Segovia Center, which provides maintaining them for two years. community members planted without the risk of roots The decision came after sev- resources for self-sufficiency for “What happens after two years?” penetrating the landfill cap. eral months of analysis, accord- women, children and families. Ms. Keith asked. She also noted weren’t consulted. Voting to approve the applica- ing to a statement released by Programs include children’s that no one from the community tion, council members Rich Cline the InnVision board of directors educational and extra-curric- spoke in favor of the project dur- warning signs he saw of potential and Kelly Fergusson urged the and CEO. The shelter has been ular activities, adult education, ing the Jan. 25 meeting. problems. “Lack of knowledge city to tap community expertise in jeopardy for some time. food boxes and other supportive Several members of the Friends of the depth of soil, the Envi- going forward to ensure the park’s In 2006, the Palo Alto VA services. of Bedwell Bayfront Park spoke ronmental Quality Commission welfare. So did Peter Ohtaki, who Healthcare System told InnVision In 2008, reduced funding against the plan, wondering why failing to fully endorse this, the said he’d support applying now in the shelter would be evicted from threatened to close the shelter community members weren’t con- lack of an EIR.” case the state funds weren’t avail- the Menlo Park campus in 2010 due to a decrease in donations. sulted, and why the city declined He offered the group’s services able next year. A because the building is seismically CEO Christine Burroughs said at the time that the shel- ter would probably be closed because of the high cost of real estate. Some municipalities also have zoning restrictions on where shelters can be placed. It took more than a year to get Clara-Mateo Alliance merged a diagnosis. When I went to with InnVision in 2004. InnVision says it is Silicon Valley’s largest Stanford’s Dermatology Clinic, I nonprofit provider of housing and finally found a dermatologist who services to homeless and at-risk families and individuals and serves truly listened to what I said—and more than 27,000 homeless and severely at-risk people annually then actually DID something from San Jose to Redwood City. about it. —Cindy W., Stanford patient “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of the Clara-Mateo Alliance in Menlo Park,” said InnVision President and CEO Christine Burroughs in a statement. “Every effort was made to keep CMA open.” “Unfortunately, due to numer- ous factors including a difficult economy, we feel that the clo- sure of CMA will allow us to focus our resources toward the continuation of our other pro- grams throughout Silicon Valley and the Peninsula,” she said. Ms. Burroughs said InnVi- sion is committed to placing current residents in other Stanford Dermatology Center offers a full range of medical and surgical dermatology InnVision programs or in facilities run by other non- services in a patient friendly environment. Whether you’re suffering from a common condition profit service providers. She thanked InnVision’s donors or a difficult-to-manage disease, Stanford Dermatology’s team has broad experience for their support during a dif- ficult time. in treating all skin conditions—from the common to the complex. “If conditions allow, we hope to re-open this shelter in the future at a different location,” she said. A NEW EXTENDED HOURS Mon – Fri: 8:00am – 4:30pm
Make an appointment, call 650.723.6316 or Get daily local news updates visit: stanfordhospital.org/dermatology FREE in your e-mail inbox. Sign up today at 450 Broadway Street, Redwood City, CA 94063 TheAlmanacOnline.com
6 N The Almanac N February 2, 2011 NEWS
Susan George plans to Six new artists at Portola Gallery retire as town manager A reception will be held from By Dave Boyce N WOODSIDE 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 5, at Almanac Staff Writer Portola Art Gallery in the Allied Arts Guild for six new artists: he proceedings of the staff and to the council, as Carolyn Jones, Mark Monsarrat, Woodside Town Coun- appropriate,” she added. Jerome Peters, Jared Sines, Nancy Tcil meeting on Tuesday, A new budget is coming, too. Stevenson and Decker Walker. Jan. 25, had an unusual start: “I am determined to leave the The artists’ work will be fea- the meeting began with Susan town well-positioned finan- tured in a group show during George, the town manager since cially, so a major goal is the February. 1992 and in her usual seat, development of a sound two- announcing that she will be year budget and financial plan About the artists retiring in 12 months. for the councilís review and Carolyn Jones of Menlo Park After the Pledge of Allegiance, adoption/approval this June,” is best known for California Mayor Ron Romines opened the Ms. George said. landscapes focusing on local scenes, including the Baylands, the Pacific Coast and coastal “Autumn at Allied Arts” by Carolyn Jones can be seen at Portola mountains. Art Gallery. Ms. Jones, a resident of Menlo Park, is one of six new ‘I am determined to leave Mark Monsarrat of San Fran- local artists who recently joined the gallery. the town well-positioned cisco is a plein air artist creat- ing traditional oil landscapes. Shreve & Co. in San Francisco. both adults and children. Decker financially.’ Jerome Peters of Palo Alto likes His oil paintings are featured in Walker of Palo Alto paints fig- – SUSAN GEORGE to paint old trucks, landscapes, California galleries and retail ures, landscapes and still life in portraits, and still art in acrylics stores. oil. on stretched canvas. Nancy Stevenson, a former Portola Art Gallery is located at Photo by Michelle Le Jared Sines’ long career began clinical psychologist, is a sculp- Allied Arts Guild, 75 Arbor Road, The Almanac at age 20, showing his work at tor whose bronze figures feature in Menlo Park. meeting by giving the floor to The town has been fairly well Ms. George. positioned financially under her In brief unwritten remarks, leadership, with reserves that Police arrest sexual-assault fugitive she had high praise for the are consistently over the council By Miranda Simon said. “It presented a fire hazard.” No arrests have been made in council, the Town Hall staff and mandate of 15 percent of the Special to the Almanac Police said they found several connection with the weapon or the the residents. “I look forward to operating budget. A 40 percent occupants inside, including Mr. illegal structure, Detective Soares working with many of you over balance is expected for June 30, olice responding to a code- Vargas-Ortiz. “We contacted two said. the next 12 months,” she said, the end of this fiscal year. enforcement complaint in male adults and some younger There are no immediate plans to her voice just on the edge of The update to the general plan Pthe Belle Haven neighbor- children,” Detective Soares said. evict the residents of the dwelling, breaking at one point. has been a major undertaking. hood of Menlo Park on Jan. 26 “There were three bedrooms inside he said. Police are working with “There will be lots to say about The general plan is meant to found more than they expected: a a small dwelling.” homeowners to rectify the viola- this,” Mr. Romines said, “but capture a town’s character and fugitive on the run since 2004 after While on the premises, officers tion and are giving them a grace there will be ample time (for guide its future development. The he was convicted of sexual assault. said they found and confiscated a period to comply with the neces- that).” 10 chapters in Woodside’s plan Marco Vargas-Ortiz, 26, of Red- pistol-grip assault shotgun but are sary permit. A Her priorities for the coming include land use, historic pres- wood City was arrested at the unsure to whom it belongs. “It’s year: the completion and adop- ervation, getting around town, scene, in the 1200 block of Sevier not registered to anybody,” Detec- Bay City News Service contributed tion of a revised and updated hazards, noise, housing and envi- Avenue, by Menlo Park police offi- tive Soares said. to this report. general plan, revisions to the ronmental sustainability. cers with the Narcotics Enforce- residential design guidelines, The updated plan, according ment Team. He was booked him completion of pending amend- to a staff progress report, will into San Mateo County jail. REAL ESTATE Q&A ments to the municipal code, include a reorganized and more No narcotics were involved — and two essays: one on the his- readable layout and a sophisti- narcotics officers sometimes work by Monica Corman tory of the town’s public sew- cated full color set of maps that on code-enforcement complaints. ers and another on downtown cover zoning and land use; In 2003, Mr. Vargas-Ortiz and Many Sellers Are Deciding It’s parking, Ms. George told The sewer assessment; neighbor- two other suspects were arrested in Time To Move Almanac. hoods at risk of flood, seismic connection with the sexual assault “There are other areas like and fire hazards; roads and of a victim under 14. Mr. Vargas- Dear Monica: I have been they would be able to sell their those about which I have a fair trails; open spaces and scenic Ortiz pleaded no contest to charges looking to buy a house for a few homes at higher prices. amount of stored knowledge corridors; and fresh water he committed lewd and lascivious months now and am disappoint- The market has improved from and I want to pass it along to resources. A acts with the child, according to ed at how little selection there the low point of 2009. There are the San Mateo County District is on the market. Why do you signs that many sellers who waited Attorney’s Office. think there is so little inventory? are deciding not to do this any Neighbor helps Menlo Park police Mr. Vargas-Ortiz had been sen- Nicole E. longer because the market may tenced to a three-year suspended Dear Nicole: It is true that take a long time to show real price nab four burglary suspects prison sentence with the provision there is very low inventory on the increases. For these sellers, they he serve nine months in county market at the moment and if this are deciding to accept what the Three men and one juvenile the area at the time so they were jail, according to the district attor- continues, sellers will be missing an opportunity. Part of the rea- current market will pay even if were arrested in Menlo Park on able to get to the scene within 90 ney’s office. it means they take a loss, just so Jan. 26 after a neighbor spot- seconds, police said. The defendant never served his son for the low inventory is that January is usually a wet and mis- they can get on with their lives and ted suspicious activity shortly The four were arrested on sentence, police said. erable time to put your house on plans. I have had this conversa- before 4 p.m. on Bieber Avenue suspicion of attempted burglary Officers who responded to the the market. Many sellers wait for tion with a few sellers in the past and called police. and conspiracy to commit a code-violation complaint said they solid signs of spring to do this. few weeks enough to see a likely The neighbor spotted two crime, police said. observed an “illegal structure” in Also for the past two years many trend. You and other buyers like people searching for an open Andres Lopez Solano, 21, the rear yard of the site. The struc- sellers have waited thinking that you will likely have more proper- window at a house in the 1100 Antonio Barrajas, 18, Leonel ture was “an add-on to the exist- the market would improve and ties to choose from soon. block of Bieber Avenue. Two Contreras, 19, were booked into ing residence that had not been others were acting as lookouts, San Mateo County jail, and the approved by the city with permits For answers to any questions you may have on real estate, you may police said. juvenile was booked into juve- and is drawing electricity from e-mail me at [email protected] or call 462-1111, Alain Pinel Realtors. Police officers were patrolling nile hall. main house,” Detective Soares I also offer a free market analysis of your property. www.MonicaCorman.com
February 2, 2011 N The Almanac N 7 NEWS
Heritage tree falls in Menlo Park where plenty hear it ■ Council votes 3-2 to approve removal. By Sandy Brundage Almanac Staff Writer She also told the council at its Jan. 25 meeting that the tree, oney doesn’t grow on which thrusts upward from the trees, but apparently it middle of the property, posed Mdoes grow if you chop safety risks as well as maintenance the tree down. After an hour and issues. a half of late-night public com- Those supporting her case ment, the Menlo Park City Council focused on the rights of property finally approved a developer’s owners and the damage a growing request to remove a heritage red- redwood tree can cause, including wood tree. car paint ruined by acidic cones; The vote split 3-2, with Kelly cracked foundations and sewer Fergusson and Andy Cohen dis- lines; and mold. senting. Most speakers supported Scott Marshall countered that developer Kim LeMieux’s request when he bought a house in Menlo to cut down a 70-foot heritage Park, he signed an acknowledg- redwood tree at 240 University ment that the city has a heritage Drive. tree ordinance, and seemed to Three months ago the council wonder whether the ordinance also voted 3-2, with John Boyle matters. “If someone goes through and Rich Cline dissenting, to the process (of requesting remov- spend $7,500 of city funds to al), is it ever declined? Seems like design a home that would preserve there’s always a way around it if the tree. you’re persistent,” he said. “Menlo However, Ms. LeMieux’s analy- Park is about trees.”
sis concluded the proposed design The city has approved 97 per- Photo by Michelle Le/The Almanac wasn’t economically feasible with- cent of heritage tree removal This 70-foot heritage redwood tree at 240 University Drive in Menlo Park will come down as a result of out a basement, which would requests since 2008, according the council’s decision. decrease the home’s value by an to Rebecca Fotu, environmental estimated $350,000. The devel- programs manager. that the alternate designs show weren’t cut down. council members appeared to oper wants to build and sell a The newest member of the that the tree could reasonably be Colleague Peter Ohtaki called it agree that the heritage tree ordi- new two-story, 4,402-square-foot Environmental Quality Com- preserved, and challenged Ms. “a gut-wrenching decision,” but nance in Menlo Park could use a home complete with detached mission lives next door to the LeMieux’s economic analysis of voted to remove the tree because rewrite to avoid a similar morass garage and basement at the site. tree. Christina Smolke stated the property’s value if the tree of its position on the property. The in the future. A
Suspect claims doctor prescribed marijuana Saturday: Meet a chicken in Atherton
A man charged with selling mari- N MENLO BRIEFS Park City Council for this year, If you like the notion of raising services librarian in a statement. juana bought three more months and as a result, no meeting will be chickens in your backyard, or “Meet some of the children who before he’ll have to face the jury. committee member at its Jan. 25 held on Tuesday, Feb. 1. think you might, you might want raise them, ask your questions, Menlo Park police arrested meeting. The council will next convene to show up at an event in Atherton learn what it takes to care for hens, Thomas Marshall Stine, 35, after Skipping the opportunity to dis- on Tuesday, Feb. 8, at 7 p.m. at the on Saturday, Feb. 5. and watch Henny Penny perform reportedly seeing marijuana smoke cuss the applicants’ backgrounds, a Civic Center at 701 Laurel St. City The Atherton Library has invited her chicken tricks!” pouring out the windows of his taciturn council selected Peipei Yu staff expects the agenda to include neighborhood chickens young and The library is located at the town parked car, according to the district from a list of 15 applicants to take discussion of how to counter old for an open house with the center at 2 Dinkelspiel Station attorney’s office. A search found a a seat on the city’s Planning Com- the state’s proposal to eliminate public from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Lane. For more information, con- half pound of marijuana, a scale, mission. redevelopment agencies, including “Chickens are all the rage,” tact Ms. Visser Knoth at 328-2422 and baggies, police said, and Mr. As for the Finance Audit Com- Menlo Park’s. said Maeve Visser Knoth, youth or 654-4975. Stine, who was wearing a bullet- mittee, Honor Huntington will proof vest, allegedly had an expired start a second term. The only other medical marijuana card. applicant for the spot, educator FACEBOOK CRIMES The department is financially On Jan. 11, the day the trial was Chuck Bernstein, withdrew after continued from page 5 continued from page 5 strapped and anticipating cuts initially supposed to start, the issuing a statement supporting Ms. of up to $10 million in the next defense attorney told San Mateo Huntington’s re-appointment. ■ In 2008, the value doubled including what happened, when budget year while trying to Superior Court Judge Stephen Hall He described her as smart, to $16.7 million. it happened, the name and block maintain service levels and mod- that a doctor had prescribed mari- competent, and perhaps most ■ In 2009, it nearly doubled number of the street on which it ernize, Sheriff Greg Munks told juana for his client in 2004. important, apolitical in civic work. again, to $30.2 million. happened, and an itemized list The Almanac. In addition, the The prosecutor discovered the “Rather, she is factual and ana- ■ In 2010, it more than dou- with estimates of financial losses, dispatchers work for the county doctor had lost his medical license lytical, focusing on understanding bled, to $63.4 million. if available. communications office. five years later, and demanded the our problems thoroughly in order “They’re not considered to be Menlo Park and Atherton “We could certainly ask (the defense provide a chain of custody to develop effective solutions,” he one of the major contributors police have online logs updated county) if they could do that,” he for the last-minute evidence. wrote. to Santa Clara County business daily. Can the Sheriff’s Office do said, but he noted that internal Over the prosecutor’s protests, Mr. Bernstein said he’ll apply property tax right now,” Mr. that? Can’t be done, Lt. Lunny costs might rise. Judge Hall granted a defense request again once another position Stone said. “But if they keep said he’s been told. Asked to The Sheriff’s Office has taken to postpone the trial, which is now opens. growing the way they have been, elaborate, he said that staff is not over patrol of San Carlos, and the set for April 18. Mr. Stine remains “Congratulations, Honor,” they’ll be a major player. Not available and that the numbers of deal came with the former police free on $15,000 bail. Mayor Rich Cline said at the unlike Google was, not unlike crimes “are too great.” department’s crime-log software, meeting. “Or, I always make the eBay was.” In Menlo Park, dispatchers pre- Mr. Munks said. While it may be New commissioners joke, depending on the day, con- Facebook declined to discuss pare logs during the early morn- suitable, it would likely include a the purchases. The company has ing hours by extracting the neces- more costly contract, he said. Finding it easier to fill commis- dolences.” about 2,000 employees world- sary facts from officers’ barebones “We’re using the scarce resourc- sion vacancies than deal with the wide, and more than 500 mil- reports, said department spokes- es that we have for frontline city’s trees, the Menlo Park City No council meeting lion active users, according to woman Nicole Acker. boots on the ground and manag- Council appointed a new planning A schedule lighter by six meet- spokesman Larry Yu. A Couldn’t Sheriff’s Office dis- ing an overcrowded jail,” he commissioner and finance audit ings was approved by the Menlo patchers do the same? added. A 8 N The Almanac N February 2, 2011 NEWS
Chief: Police probe limited in scope ■ Investigator concludes police followed Dennis submitted the report. department’s standards despite adding false Mr. Buckheit, who has reviewed charge to arrest report. a copy of the Peterson report, said that Mr. Peterson blamed limita- By Renee Batti tions of the computer system used Seafood Dinners from $595 to $995 ATHERTON Try our new Grilled Seafood Specials Almanac News Editor N for filing police reports for the addition of false information in Clam Chowder - Seafood Salads ritics of an investigator’s said that the investigation conclu- Our Award Winning Fish & Chips the arrest report. Prepared from the finest Alaskan halibut. report exonerating Atherton sively proved that the addition of He said the report also stated police officers of wrongdo- the child assault charge did not con- that Judge Forcum, who granted C Restaurant: Mon-Sat 11-8:30 pm, Fri ‘til 9 pm; Market: Mon - Sat 9-7 pm ing in the alteration of a police stitute “falsification” of the report. Mr. Buckheit the factual inno- Market: 10-5 pm; Restaurant:11-7 pm report on the arrest of resident Jon The Almanac and members cence declaration, “is unfamiliar NOW OPEN SUNDAYS Buckheit have called the investiga- of the public will not be able to with how the county’s domestic tion a whitewash. examine the entire report filed by violence protocol works.” But Police Chief Mike Guerra Mr. Peterson, Chief Guerra said, Mr. Buckheit strongly opposed said last week that the Mr. Peterson’s hiring, investigation applied only and pushed the town to the police department’s to ask a judge or retired “personnel standards, con- Police Chief Mike Guerra judge to appoint a neu- duct and performance,” said it is up to the district tral investigator. The and it is up to the county town instead authorized district attorney to deter- attorney to determine the hiring of Mr. Peter- mine whether criminal acts whether criminal acts son, at a rate of $125 per were committed in the hour, capped at $5,000 case. were committed. unless the city manager Photo by Michelle Le Chief Guerra last March The Almanac approved additional asked the San Mateo pay. County District Attorney’s Office because laws are in place protect- Chief Guerra said earlier this to investigate Mr. Buckheit’s charge ing the confidentiality of internal week that he didn’t know how that the police report of his 2008 personnel investigations. much the investigation cost, but arrest after a domestic violence In January 2010, Mr. Buckheit that it didn’t exceed the $5,000 incident was falsified when an offi- was granted a declaration of factual cap. cer added a charge of child assault innocence in San Mateo County Mr. Buckheit dismissed the hours after the original report had Superior Court. Atherton Police findings of the Peterson investi- been filed. The DA’s office and Mr. Officer Tony Dennis testified dur- gation, and continues his push to Buckheit’s attorney are negotiating ing the factual-innocence court have the matter investigated by details of how to proceed with that proceedings that, although the an outside agency other than the process. police report bore his signature, the DA’s office, noting that the county The personnel investigation that section recommending criminal is among the defendants in a fed- was concluded several weeks ago charges for assaulting a child who eral lawsuit he has filed regarding was conducted by Pete Peterson, a was present during the domestic the arrest and its aftermath. The former police chief of a small Cali- violence incident was not written state Attorney General’s Office or fornia town. According to a Jan. 14 by him. the FBI would be more appropri- letter sent to Mr. Buckheit by Chief During the trial, Judge Mark ate agencies to conduct the inves- Guerra, Mr. Peterson concluded Forcum stated that “there’s abso- tigation, he maintains. that the “acts (that) provided the lutely no basis to believe that Mr. Meanwhile, Mr. Buckheit is basis for the complaint or allegation Buckheit ever laid a finger on the asking for a meeting with Chief occurred; however, the investiga- child,” according to the court tran- Guerra to discuss the investiga- tion revealed that they were justi- script. tion. He told The Almanac that fied, lawful and proper.” An examination of the police among his questions is: Why Regarding Mr. Buckheit’s charge database showed that Officer Dean wasn’t he interviewed by Mr. that the police report had been DeVlugt had added the child assault Peterson before the investigation criminally falsified, Chief Guerra charge several hours after Officer was concluded? A
Parking a factor in closing of Boutique 4 in Menlo Park The Bowman program builds After five years in business in Another factor in closing, she relaxed, she says. confidence, creativity and downtown Menlo Park, Bou- says, was Menlo Park’s extreme- In 2010, Readers’ Choice chose tique 4 has closed at 809 Santa ly aggressive parking enforce- Boutique 4 as its favorite bou- academic excellence. Cruz Ave., according to Tamara ment. “We had many customers tique for selling “timeless and Michel, co-owner of the bou- who refused to come downtown classic clothing for women; +"#' $) tique with her sister, Julie. to shop.” styles that never go out of “Our lease was up and we were The Mitchel sisters con- style.” $$"#' $) not comfortable signing up for tinue to operate a second A sign on the door at 809 another four years, given the clothing shop at 279 Castro Santa Cruz Ave. says a Subway $$*-$)%$#$(& business conditions in Menlo St. in Mountain View, where submarine sandwich shop will Park,” says Ms. Michel. parking enforcement is more be coming soon. !#'$#**)*$) ))((#' "%'%#, +)*$#' Get local news updates FREE in your e-mail inbox daily. www.bowmanschool.org Sign up today at TheAlmanacOnline.com
February 2, 2011 N The Almanac N 9 NEWS
Audrey Rust to retire Menlo Park scrambles to defend assets ■ Governor proposes to shut down redevelopment agencies. as head of POST By Sandy Brundage marked for projects on the city’s enforcement, drug-prevention, Audrey Rust, who has led the Almanac Staff Writer capital improvement plan, as and gang-intervention programs Peninsula Open Space Trust for well as support for community run by the police department. 24 years, will retire as president hen the governor pro- services. Proposition 22, which passed in this summer, she announced posed shutting down The governor’s plan would shift November, was meant to protect Jan. 25. Wredevelopment agencies control of housing assets, includ- local funds like those contained “During my time at POST, (RDAs) across California, cities ing below-market-rate units, to within an RDA. But by eliminat- we’ve saved 53,000 acres of open like Menlo Park began taking the county housing authority. It ing redevelopment agencies, Mr. space out of a total of 64,000 tactical steps in a war to protect could also cash out tangible assets Rojas said, the state leaves nothing acres since our founding in their assets. such as the six vacant lots and two to protect. 1977,” she said in the announce- “Redevelopment agencies were houses along Hamilton Avenue The state Legislature must ment. “We’ve raised more than formed to get rid of blight within overseen by the redevelopment approve the proposal by a two- $325 million to save stunning a boundary, such as rundown agency, according to Dave John- thirds vote for it to become law. scenery, world-class recreation, properties, or commercial prop- son, the city’s business develop- And if they do? productive farmland and vul- erties that are underutilized,” said ment manager. “We lose money, we lose land, nerable wildlife habitat in one City Manager Glen Rojas, who Property tax revenues currently we lose control,” Mr. Rojas said. of the world’s most expensive Audrey Rust described an RDA as an economic funneled to the redevelopment “I’m not real optimistic, because real estate markets.” engine for the city. “We’ll lose that agency would instead be redis- the state is desperate, and when Executive Vice President on July 1, Ms. Rust said. Mr. opportunity. That money will no tributed by the state — an aspect you’re desperate, you do desper- Walter Moore will take over Moore has been with POST for longer be available, somewhere of the plan supported by some ate things. If this gets the support as president when she leaves 16 years in the neighborhood of $17 mil- school districts, since they would of the Legislature, we’re up the lion.” receive money directly instead of creek.” That money is already ear- as a percentage passed through by Mayor Rich Cline, with the the RDA. help of staff and other council VOICE STUDIO OF MAUREEN H. FROMME Mr. Rojas listed as an accom- members, sent a letter to the gov- GUTTER plishment of Menlo Park’s rede- ernor last week. “The proposal “Training Singers for Life” velopment agency: persuading to eliminate our RDA wipes out Techniques that are based on good vocal health. Pacific BioSciences, now one of the only tool local governments Experienced singer and teacher has current openings for CLEANING the city’s top 25 revenue produc- have to drive economic growth, beginning and advanced students in Menlo Park area. Complimentary Introductory Lesson ers, to relocate to the Willows to build tax revenues, and grow 35 years of performing & teaching - ‘bel canto’ approach area; the city cleaned up blight sustainably. Why would we do M.M. - Vocal Performance, Manhattan School of Music UÊÊ{äÊÞi>ÀÃÊ UÊÊ V>Ê and created a better atmosphere, this?? he wrote. Presently - Music Director, Bethany Lutheran Church, Menlo Park ,iviÀiVià #ONTACT s MHFROMME YAHOOCOM iÝ«iÀiVi he said. The City Council will consider UÊÀiiÊ ÃÌ>Ìià UÊ V°ÊEÊÃÕÀi` Other accomplishments: main- what options they have to protect taining undeveloped properties the city’s assets at its meeting on Kathy’s POWER WASHING within the city, and funding code- Tuesday, Feb. 8. A RJ’s iÃÊEÊ"vwÊVià Draperies ,i>Ã>LiÊ,>Ìià POLICE CALLS Upholstery N and See Our Selection of WINDOW WASHING GARY’S HOUSECLEANING This information is from the Atherton Slipcovers Roman Shades and Menlo Park police departments SERVICE and the San Mateo County Sheriff’s MENLO PARK [email protected] Office. Under the law, people charged Better Choice Since 1960 Commercial burglary report: with offenses are considered innocent Unlocked building entered with loss 1064 Cherry Street 650-591-0220 San Carlos 650-591-6037 until convicted. estimated at $400 in theft of small shelf safe containing $100 and $300 iPod, Applewood Pizza at 1001 El Camino DESIGN FOR LIVING ATHERTON Real, Jan. 24. Residential burglary report: Three Residential burglary reports: Green Building Professionals doors pried open at construction site; ■ Three men arrested in burglary Healthy Energy Efficient Homes it’s unknown if anything was taken, attempt with no property loss, 1100 Stockbridge Ave., Jan. 22. block of Bieber Ave., Jan. 26. Featuring Our Latest GREEN Innovation Auto burglary report: Window ■ Nothing lost in attempted burglary, smashed and set of golf clubs stolen, first block of Greenwood Place, Jan. first block of James Ave., Jan. 21. 27. Grand theft report: Two boxes of Fraud reports: tools valued at $1,000 stolen from ■ Credit card stolen and used at stores construction site, first block of Ralston in Stanford shopping center, and at Road, Jan. 27. Cafe Borrone, 1010 El Camino Real, Jan. 26. ■ WOODSIDE Embezzlement suspected, 800 block of Oak Grove Ave., Jan. 27. Theft report: Cell phone left in store Stolen vehicle report: Orange 2008 then picked up and used to make calls Honda CVR600 motorcycle, 1100 and to download games before being block of Carlton Ave., Jan. 25. returned to victim, 100 block of Glen- wood Ave., Jan. 19. Assault with deadly weapon report: WEST MENLO PARK Arrest made after fight in which sus- pect struck victim on head with belt Fraud report: Unauthorized check buckle, then victim takes belt away and for $18,000 nearly empties annuity retaliates with belt slap that raises welt account in 2008 case involving checks on suspect’s back, and suspect retali- believed to be stolen by an insider, 200 ates with unsuccessful attempt to stab block of Stanford Ave., Jan. 24. victim with pocket knife, 300 block of Theft reports: Olive Hill Lane, Jan. 24. ■ Loss estimated at $45 in theft of ear- bud headphones, 1200 block of Sher- man Ave., Jan. 24. PORTOLA VALLEY ■ Loss estimated at $21 in cash and Residential burglary report: Losses $100 check in theft of wallet and other estimated at $5,100 in entry into items from unlocked vehicle, 2100 408.399.2222 unlocked residence and theft of two block of Cedar Ave., Jan. 21. watches, two rings and digital video Auto burglary report: Interior ran- www.louieleuarch.com camera, 500 block of Old La Honda sacked and trunk opened, 2000 block Road, Jan. 19. of Ashton Ave., Jan. 21.
10 N The Almanac N February 2, 2011 COMMUNITY
Two casts perform ‘Noises Off’ at Menlo By Kate Daly Special to the Almanac show at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 13 will into comedy and to be on the feature a “mixed cast.” other side,” he said. enlo School does a Ms. Orr said she wanted to “`Noises Off” is a play within double-take on the double-cast the play to increase a play, set in contemporary MBritish farce, “Noises the number of students involved. times. Off” by Michael Frayn, by put- She turned to her colleague, Mr. “The writer captures the antics ting on the play with two alter- Newton, for help, because he of putting on a production, the nating casts. was a professional actor in New chaos where what can go wrong With two people directing two York and Los Angeles, doing does go wrong,” Mr. Newton separate casts, the shows should plays, TV shows and movies said. “There’s a lot of physical be different, but then again that before he retired at age 29. comedy in it,” he added, describ- means “twice the fun and twice Mr. Newton had gone to Men- ing the slapstick humor as “high the laughs,” according to Upper lo and played football through farce” where he has the kids School Drama teacher Beth Orr. college. He decided to move “doing big and extreme charac- The cast she is directing back to the area and work at his ter work.” will appear on opening night, alma mater, where he is now in The shows will be staged at Wednesday, Feb. 9, at 7:30 p.m.; his seventh year of coaching and Florence Moore Theatre at 50 on Friday, Feb. 11, at 7:30 p.m., teaching. Valparaiso Ave. in Atherton. Photo by Beth Orr and at a 2 p.m. matinee Satur- He is also the sophomore dean Tickets are $7 for students and Menlo School students, from left, Margot Yecies, Max Serrano and day, Feb. 12. and works as an associate in the $10 for adults, with discounts Zoe Hernandez face Taylor Blackburn’s ax in the British comedy, “Noises The cast led by head football admissions office. Ms. Orr cast for seniors. Donations will be Off,” being performed by two alternating casts Feb. 9-13. coach and U.S. history teacher him to act in several of her plays, accepted for admission to the Mark Newton will perform Feb. but this is Mr. Newton’s directo- last show. 10 and 13 at 7:30 p.m. and at 2 rial debut. Tickets may be purchased at by e-mail at tickets@Menlo- more information call 330-2001, p.m. Sunday, Feb. 13. A final “It’s been fun to jump back the Menlo campus bookstore, school.org, or at the door. For ext. 2333. A
St. Raymond starts ‘junior kindergarten’ Introducing St. Raymond, the private ting children ready for the Get daily local news updates Catholic K-8 school in Men- next step in their schooling: FREE lo Park, will start a morn- learning how to read and ing “junior kindergarten” solve math problems. in your e-mail inbox. Good for Business. Good for You. class this fall, intended to After-school care is avail- Sign up today at serve as a bridge between able from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., TheAlmanacOnline.com Good for the Community. preschool and kindergarten, she said. Children can enroll said school spokesperson in the fall of 2011 if they Kim McNair.. turn 5 by Jan. 31, 2012. The class is meant to Applications for the junior help children interact with kindergarten are due March their peers and adults, and 15. Applications for regular aid them with physical and kindergarten are due Feb 7. motor development, Ms. For more information, call 2011 Wallace Stegner Lectures McNair said. The curric- the school office at 322- Series Sponsor: Jean Lane, in memory of Bill Lane ulum is focused on get- 2312. $)#( #, *, #( &, $&,( , & $&" # ,&(' ,'(&$,(& (,$)#( #, *
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February 2, 2011 N The Almanac N 11 COMMUNITY
PV calls for prompt end to Cargill project Local theater company By Dave Boyce Almanac Staff Writer Redwood City council would be nent protection,” the letter says. desperately seeks new stage lawful in immediately rejecting “The scope of existing local he proposal to develop the Saltworks proposal because and regional land use planning By Renee Batti Ms. Selden said company a mixed-use residential it is “so patently flawed on envi- provisions and zoning regula- Almanac News Editor members are trying to stress the Tcommunity for up to ronmental grounds that it can- tions that must be changed to importance to the community 30,000 people on a salt flat off not be approved in any form.” accommodate the (Saltworks) o be or not to be — that — and to nearby businesses — of the coast of Redwood City came The resolution requests just proposal to convert sensitive is the question being ner- the presence of live theater, espe- in for another round of bruising such a decision from the Red- lands is unprecedented relative to Tvously pondered by lead- cially when it’s presented at no from the Portola Valley Town wood City council, and that it contemporary land use actions.” ers and supporters of the Festival cost to the audience. “We can’t let Council at its Wednesday, Jan. 26, restore the salt flat to a wetland Council Ted Driscoll observed, Theatre Ensemble, which has this free Shakespeare experience meeting. and add it to the nearby Don referring to Mr. Vlasic’s point staged free outdoor theater at disappear in the community,” Redwood City council mem- Edwards National Wildlife Ref- linking the mountains and the a Menlo Park high school each she said. bers should call a halt to the uge. wetlands: “We’re kind of book- June for nine years. The company has typically project immediately because the The Portola Valley council also ends. We’re asking them to deal This year, the troupe finds staged two Shakespearian plays environmental impacts are too approved, with slight modifica- with their end of the bookshelf.” itself unexpectedly scrambling and one other work each year, potentially harmful to the region, tion, an unambiguous letter Councilman Steve Toben called to dodge the slings and arrows alternating the performances their Portola Valley counterparts written by Town Planner Tom Mr. Vlasic’s writing “extraor- of outrageous fortune that could Fridays through Sundays for four said in a resolution. Vlasic and intended for the Red- dinary,” while noting that he spell its doom: weeks. It’s the Portola Valley council’s wood City council. is not insensitive to Redwood The back lot of Ensemble second whack at this proposal by The town “has carefully con- City’s need for housing, parks Mid-Peninsula members fear Minneapolis-based Cargill Salt sidered its regional place in its and other infrastructure. “It’s a High School on ‘We can’t let this free that losing the Corp., which owns the 1,436- land use decision-making,” the huge dilemma,” Mr. Toben said. Willow Road Shakespeare experience local venue for acre salt flat and has teamed up letter says, as can be seen in the “I’m quite convinced that they’re — which over their produc- with an Arizona developer. A town’s general plan and its prac- sincere.” the years has disappear in the tions could unanimous council, with Coun- tices and procedures. Several council members won- hosted the likes community.’ cause them to cilwoman Ann Wengert absent, The eastward facing slopes dered aloud about how Portola of Hamlet, fold up their JENNIFER SELDEN had agreed on Dec. 8 to oppose of the Santa Cruz mountains, Valley could help Redwood City Romeo, Juliet, tent entirely, the Saltworks project out of including Windy Hill, are pro- address its problems. “It’s going Kate and Petru- even though concern for the impacts on traf- tected open space and a “visual to be tough,” Mr. Driscoll said. chio — will be torn apart in they perform the same plays in fic, drinking water and the Bay’s backdrop” to “help set the limits “We don’t have much in the way June as the Hetch Hetchy water July and August at the Los Gatos wildlife. to development,” and the Bay of resources to offer and we’re pipe restoration project chews Shakespeare Festival, which The Jan. 26 resolution takes a wetlands serve the same purpose, one fifteenth the size.” its way across the Peninsula and charges admission. The reason: stronger stand. After research- the letter says. Go to is.gd/qeRTjw and turn to lingers for a while on that east- the company works on its set, ing the legal options, the Portola “These Bay lands deserve simi- Page 76 to read the Mr. Vlasic’s ern Menlo Park site. stages rehearsals, works out light- Valley council points out that the lar public efforts for perma- draft letter. A The Festival Theatre Ensemble, ing and sound, and fine-tunes its which had planned to stage performances at the high school “Macbeth,” “Twelfth Night,” and site well in advance of opening the comedy “Charley’s Aunt” by night. Brandon Thomas in June, is now “The time it takes to do that is Robert George Campbell (Bob) desperately seeking a stage. not available in Los Gatos,” she Jennifer Selden, a longtime said. Born March 12, 1919; died January 24, 2011 member and producer of the the- The ensemble is hoping that ater company, told The Almanac someone in Menlo Park or Bob was a native day his first granddaughter was born) he was that the group is looking for a site another Midpeninsula town has of San Francisco and President of Rathbone King and Seeley, a that could be as small as 80-by- a site, perhaps a vacant com- a third generation firm of Insurance Company Managers, and 100 feet, which could accom- mercial building or vacant land, Californian, born President of the American Star Insurance modate a stage, backstage area, for its 2011 season. “We are very to Ella Dowling Company. In insurance company activities, he lighting rig, and audience area. respectful of our landlords,” Campbell and Elmer served as President of the Northern California “We provide fencing for security she said. “Since we are a ... not- G. Campbell. He was Chapter of the Society of Property and Casualty when not performing,” she said for-profit theater company, any a beloved spouse of Underwriters (CPCU), President of the in an e-mail. donation of space would be tax- 67 years to Jeanne Insurance Company Managers Association, The space would be needed deductible as permitted by law.” Martell Campbell President of the Insurance Forum of San from May 1 through June 30, she If anyone would like to donate and devoted father Francisco, and Chairman of the San Francisco said. “This space can be grass, space, or has a lead on someone to Diane Campbell Insurance Educational Association. dirt, empty parking lot, really who might, Ms. Selden would and Susan Campbell. Bob’s community activities included serving whatever we can find. A park welcome an e-mail at FTE- Known as “Papa,” as Foreman pro tem of the 1974-75 San Mateo would be ideal.” [email protected]. A he was a proud County Grand Jury, Vice President and board grandfather of Jeannie Campbell-Urban, Edie member of Sequoia Hospital Foundation, Campbell-Urban, and Mackenzie Campbell. He and Charter member of Sharon Heights Golf was the loving brother of William C. Campbell & Country Club (former vice president and Roller & Hapgood & Tinney of San Rafael, CA and adored Uncle Bob to five board member). nephews and nieces. Bob was an avid gardener, spending Bob was the great great grandson of countless hours landscaping his homes as well The Peninsula’s Premier Funeral Benjamin Campbell, founder of the town as those of his daughters. He leaves behind of Campbell, CA, a fact that made him very many beautiful gardens for all of us to enjoy. and Cremation Service Provider proud. He was a graduate of Lowell High Bob also enjoyed the hobbies of golf, fishing, School in San Francisco, the University of tennis, dominoes and traveling. Most of all, Ensure that your final wishes are honored. California at Berkeley, class of 1941, and the Bob loved the time he spent with “his girls,” Plan ahead with a pre-need arrangement. Stanford Graduate School of Business, class who will miss him terribly. of 1947. As part of the Greatest Generation, A memorial mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Serving all faiths since 1899 Bob served in World War II as Commanding Saturday, January 29, at St. Denis Church, 2250 Officer of a Navy minesweeper during the New Avy Avenue, Menlo Park, with a reception 980 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto, California 94301 Guinea and Philippines invasions. following. In lieu of flowers, memorial His entire business career was spent in the contributions may be sent to St. Anthony’s (650) 328-1360 property and casualty insurance business. Padua Dining Room, Hanna Boys Center, or www.rollerhapgoodtinney.com At the time of his retirement in 1984 (on the Sequoia Hospital Foundation. PAID OBITUARY Se Habla Español Funeral Home FD132
12 N The Almanac N February 2, 2011 COMMUNITY Support Local Business John O’Connor’s FDR 502 ily members. He was rough N OBITUARY around the edges, but had a MenloParkFunerals.com Brian Tremaine big heart and always had time to help a friend, they say. For 1182A Chestnut Street Lifelong Menlo Park resident many years he was a tow truck Services have been held for driver and was interested in Menlo Park, CA FD 2060 Brian Howard Tremaine who working on cars, camping, and died Dec. 25 at Stanford Medical fishing. Center. He was 50. He is survived by his parents, Mr. Tremaine was born in Rowland and Regina Tremaine; Dr. Clarice Haylett Vaughan Menlo Park to Rowland and son Jason; daughter Margaret; Community Mental Health Pioneer Regina Tremaine. His father sisters Corrine, Patricia, Jea- was a fireman in Menlo Park. nette and Charlene; brothers Dr. Clarice Haylett Vaughan (b. July 22, 1922) Woodside, CA. His mother was a homemaker. Robert and Gregg; and two passed away peacefully on October 25, 2010. Born Clarice’s hobbies Mr. Tremaine liked to spend granddaughters. into a family of educators, engineers and doctors, included photography, time with his friends and ride Condolences may be sent to Clarice’s life followed her father’s saying - “If it is fly fishing, bird-watching, his BMX bike on a track he 32564 County Highway W, Hol- worth doing, do it well.” She was her Long Beach gardening, and music; she and his friends built, say fam- combe, WI 54745. high school’s valedictorian and graduated with was a gracious woman honors from both Stanford University (1949) and and a fine hostess. When Stanford Medical School (1951). She worked for not organizing photos, Woman injured in fall at M-A the Marin County Health Department as their checking her garden on Public Health Officer for a number of years before Farmville or planning a Submitted by Menlo-Atherton fell to the ground. However, she returning to school to complete her psychiatric grand dinner party, she High School student and jour- was unhurt. training at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. She could often be found with nalist Tyler Finn, who was on the Seven people gathered to assist returned to California and became the Medical her numerous cats or scene. the injured woman. M-A stu- Program Director of the San Mateo County enjoying the squirrels who shared her bird-feeder. dent and journalist Tyler Finn Department of Mental Health at Chope Hospital. She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Anne An 80-year-old woman was called 911. One of the injured She retired in 1985, after 30 years as a mental health Vaughan of Portola Valley; son, Richard Vaughan hospitalized Sunday night, Jan. woman’s friends held tissues to administrator. At the time, she was one of the first and wife, Elizabeth, of Redwood City and five 16, after she tripped on a speed the side of her head to control women in the country to hold such an elevated grand-daughters; Evelyn, Aurora, Brisa, Rosalind bump and fell in the parking the bleeding. position in this field. and Elizabeth. lot of Menlo-Atherton High The 911 dispatcher instructed Clarice was married to Dr. Warren Taylor A Remembrance Celebration will be held School. those assisting the injured wom- Vaughan, Jr., noted child psychiatrist. Together in Portola Valley on February 5, 2011. For The fall caused a gash on the an not to move her. The woman they traveled the world, attending conferences, information on this event, please contact right side of her head, which remained coherent and was able visiting clinics and presenting lectures. She [email protected]. bled profusely, but she did not to answer basic questions. also as a board member on a number of fine Any donations may be made in her name to lose consciousness. An Atherton police officer was institutions, including the Common College of Pathways Hospice Foundation. The fall occurred around the first on the scene, followed PAID OBITUARY 6:15 p.m. after a Music@Menlo by the Menlo Park Fire Protec- concert at the performing arts tion District paramedics. An center at the school. Another ambulance arrived soon after woman who ran to help her also and she was put on a stretcher tripped on the speed bump and and taken to the hospital. Dorothy Dalton Hughmanick Resident of Atherton Freshmen win business plan competition Surrounded by all her children, her grandchildren, By Samantha Bergeson plan competition, students are her great grandson, and her closest family members, Special to the Almanac divided into teams, and the best Dorothy Dalton Hughmanick entered heaven on group from each of the 10 fresh- January 17, 2011. Her love knew no bounds. She enlo College students men class sections compete in devoted her life to her family who cherished her. She Derrick Bonner, Derek the finals, explained Deborah now rejoins her beloved Douglas B. Hughmanick, MRodrigues, Sam Sha- Brown McCabe, associate pro- husband forever, who she married as a young woman piro and Mickey Phelps won the fessor of marketing at Menlo during his service as an Army Air Corps pilot during Menlo College freshman busi- College. World War II. She nourished his spirit through the ness plan competition recently. The winning team was from challenges of wartime and later in his career in law The students had crafted their Ms. McCabe’s class. where he was able to achieve prominence with her business proposal around a The business plans were enduring support and encouragement. custom-fitted baseball glove, ranked by a panel of judg- Born in New York City to Edward T. Dalton inspired by their Menlo College es, including Gary Kremen of and Mary Rita Dalton, she moved to California Her sister Virginia Dalton Bouret and grandson baseball careers. CleanPower Finance, Michael as a young girl and spent most of her childhood Jason Perry preceded her in death. She is survived Each member of the winning Tomars of the Securities and and young adulthood in Burlingame, California. by her sister Maryalyce Benson, and her children team was awarded $100, with Exchange Commission, Lukas After graduating from Burlingame High School, Michael, Terry, Gail Alberti, Susan, Robin, and second and third place teams Biewald of Crowdflower, and she attended college briefly, becoming a life long John Hughmanick. Her grandchildren blessed winning $50 and $25, respec- Simon Glinsky of the Glinsky student who pursued her many interests and her passing with their courageous, attentive love: tively. Group. passions through continuing studies programs Douglas, Darcy, Hillary, Marisa, Amy, Ryan, Menlo College students are Scores were based upon the and extensive travels throughout her life. Dorothy Darren, Scott, Charlie, Rachel and David. Nine- required to enroll in an intro- competitive advantage pro- supported the arts throughout her lifetime and was day-old Kyle, her first great grandson, also visited ductory business course dur- posed, research, reasonableness a devoted member of the San Francisco Symphony to say farewell. In her generous spirit Dorothy also ing the first semester of their of financials, vision, creativity, Auxiliary for several decades. She gave generously became a second mother to Douglas and Steve freshmen year. For the business and marketing. to charities that helped the most disadvantaged Bouret and a grandmother to the Bouret children amongst us, in our country and throughout the Katie, Matt and Peter. Several other loving nieces HELLER IMMIGRATION LAW GROUP world. Her children will always remember growing and nephews survive her. Employment-based, Family/Marriage & Investor Visas up surrounded by family: aunts, uncles, cousins In the long silence that follows her departure, we A Full-Service Immigration Law Firm and grandparents who were every important to thank all who took such wonderful compassionate Serving the SF Bay Area & Silicon Valley for 25+ years their dearly loved matriarch. The family home care of our mother. If you wish to make a donation PERM Labor Certifi cation N EB1/NIW Self-Petitions was the hub for holidays and other celebrations as in Dorothy’s memory, please donate to the charity Green Cards, H1B and Work Permits she never tired of her role as perpetual, gracious, of your choice, the American Cancer Society, or the Engineers, IT/Computer fi elds, Scientists/Researchers HR/Corporate, Business & Individual Clients welcoming hostess. San Francisco Symphony.
Free Attorney Consult! PAID OBITUARY 650.424.1900 N greencard1.com N [email protected] February 2, 2011 N The Almanac N 13 Serving Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley, and Woodside for 44 years. Ideas, thoughts and opinions about local issues from people in our community. Edited by Tom Gibboney.
Editor & Publisher Tom Gibboney City struggles to serve the ‘media’ Editorial Managing Editor Richard Hine e can understand why some government offi- handled when such information is rarely released until News Editor Renee Batti cials believe that answering media queries takes after the council receives it. Lifestyles Editor Jane Knoerle valuable time away from their other duties. It But those requests came after residents discovered the Senior Correspondents W Marion Softky, Marjorie Mader isn’t easy to do your assigned job while fielding phone city staff had altered the process for awarding the contract Staff Writers calls and e-mails throughout the day from every newspa- without notifying the public — or even the City Council. Dave Boyce, Sandy Brundage per and website in this area. Originally, the city’s published outline of the process stat- Contributors Barbara Wood, Kate Daly, Katie Blankenberg But nevertheless, we were taken aback to hear top Menlo ed the council would determine whether or not to pursue Special Sections Editors Park officials grousing about the time spent telling the negotiations. Instead, it will now be presented with a pre- Carol Blitzer, Sue Dremann media — and hence the negotiated contract. Photographer Michelle Le News Intern Miranda Simon EDITORIAL public — what they’re doing. We expected more from Ms. Brandell, whose original Design & Production The opinion of The Almanac In our view, city workers job description involved community outreach. What bet- Design Director Raul Perez need to be forthright about ter way to maintain good relations with city residents than Designers Linda Atilano, what they’re doing. making every effort to share information with them? It was Gary Vennarucci We say this after having some experience in dealing clear early on that there was high media and public interest Advertising with the fallout when public officials withhold informa- in the terms and awarding of a new pool contract. Vice President Sales & Marketing tion. In today’s online world, secrets are almost always In other cases, the city could have benefited by inform- Walter Kupiec found out, and quickly broadcast around the world. Too ing the public before taking actions such as poisoning the Display Advertising Sales often, Menlo Park’s approach has been to seek forgiveness squirrels at Bedwell-Bayfront Park. Or notifying the com- Heather Hanye Real Estate Manager Neal Fine instead of support. munity sooner about children becoming sick at Burgess Real Estate and Advertising This issue came up last week during a staff presentation pool. In both cases, the public had every right to know Coordinator Diane Martin to the City Council regarding the budget. When describ- sooner rather than later. ing challenges facing their departments, several managers Some city departments do make public communica- Published every Wednesday at 3525 Alameda De Las Pulgas, included responding to information requests. tion a priority. Margaret Roberts, the city clerk, does an Menlo Park, Ca 94025 City Manager Glen Rojas voiced the hope that in the outstanding job of responding quickly and thoroughly, Newsroom: (650) 223-6525 coming year he could “spend more time on the bigger pic- even during hectic campaign seasons. The police depart- Newsroom Fax: (650) 223-7525 ture,” adding that, “we just can’t respond to every single ment and City Attorney Bill McClure also provide strong Advertising: (650) 854-2626 Advertising Fax: (650) 854-3650 (e-mail to the City Council), every inquiry of the press.” examples of commitment to transparency. e-mail news and photos with Deputy City Manager Kent Steffens joined the chorus. Rather than look for ways to reduce communication captions to: One example, cited by Community Services Director with the media, we urge the City Council and adminis- [email protected] Cherise Brandell, came following the announcement tration to brainstorm ways to be more forthcoming with e-mail letters to: [email protected] that the administration had recommended awarding those who are simply doing their job by informing the The Almanac, established in September, Team Sheeper a contract to manage the city’s swimming public about their city government. In these days of ever 1965, is delivered each week to residents of Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley and pools. The City Council will make the final decision. Ms. higher demands for disclosure at all levels of our society, Woodside and adjacent unincorporated areas of southern San Mateo County. The Almanac Brandell told the council that the city is already being it is critical that the city make transparency one of its is qualified by decree of the Superior Court of San Mateo County to publish public notices of “peppered with” questions about how the process was strongest values. a governmental and legal nature, as stated in Decree No. 147530, issued November 9, 1969. ously imperil the plants, birds and Subscriptions are $60 for one year and LETTERS $100 for two years. animals of the park and wildlife Our Our readers write refuge that thrive in an almost tree- less environment. Regional Park tree project a waste This grant is a waste of taxpayers’ Heritage of taxpayers’ money money. The city should invest in N WHAT’S YOUR VIEW? those benches instead. Dennis Martin, an Editor: Elizabeth Lasensky early owner of land That the Menlo Park City Coun- that has become All views must include a home address San Carlos and contact phone number. Published cil thinks it is a good idea to apply Jasper Ridge letters will also appear on the web site, for a grant to plant 1,000 trees at City needs to fix Biological Preserve, www.TheAlmanacOnline.com, and Bedwell Bayfront Park, in spite built a church and occasionally on the Town Square forum. of the overwhelming evidence by dangerous intersection cemetery there experts and negative public input, is Editor: in the 1850s. The TOWN SQUARE FORUM While the Menlo Park Trans- cemetery remains evidence that the concept of “pork” POST your views on the doesn’t stop in Washington. This portation Commission wrings its were removed Town Square forum at grant would use public money to hands about so-called cut-through to Holy Cross www.TheAlmanacOnline.com plant trees that aren’t needed, aren’t traffic in the Willows, an actual Cemetery in Menlo Park when planning EMAIL your views to: wanted and won’t significantly dangerous situation at the inter- began for the [email protected] sequester carbon emissions. section of Durham and Willow linear accelerator. and note this it is a letter to continues to worsen. Those funds should go to a truly A marker near the the editor in the subject line. worthy carbon offset project but Traffic exiting the VA Medical entrance to 3000 this is not one of them. Bedwell Center does not have a protected MAIL or deliver to: Sand Hill Road Bayfront Park could use some left turn on green, but acts as if it commemorates the Editor at the Almanac, does. Lately, I have noticed a drastic 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas, benches and planned planting of cemetery. Menlo Park, CA 94025. native plants that belong at shore- increase in the number of cars that line. The park does not need 1,000 race out of the VA to make that left Portola Valley Archives CALL the Viewpoint desk at trees that could break the delicate 223-6507. cap over the landfill and could seri- See LETTERS, next page
14 N The Almanac N February 2, 2011 VIEWPOINT LETTERS Lesson in democracy lost at RWC rally Continued from previous page By Henry Organ leaflets, petitions, a coffin representing the vice, having been elected to a position in her turn, to block right-turn traffic exit- recently attended a rally at the Old Court- death of democracy, and singing (a la “Raging school. In fact, this honor prompted her to ing the Willows on Durham, while house in Redwood City. The purpose of Grannies” style). But this rally was different. attend the “Congress on Your Corner” event pedestrians are in the crosswalk. Ithe rally was to mourn on the first anni- As the demonstrators were assembling in organized by Rep. Giffords. Twice in the last month I’ve versary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in the Old Courthouse plaza, a group of about In this case, a much broader issue than solely seen left-turn vehicles almost hit the case of Citizens United v. Federal Election 30 third-graders who had been visiting a the Citizens United case per se was taking place. pedestrians. Left-turn traffic also Commission. museum in the Old Courthouse, came out The critical issue was not just “why” the dem- cuts off, and sometimes almost In summary, the decision held on to the plaza to have lunch. One of onstrators were there, but “how” they were able hits, cars going straight into the VA that corporate funding of political the rally organizers went to an adult to be there. from Durham. The left-turners are campaigns in elections cannot be in the group, presumably a teacher or What was so evident right before these stu- getting angrier as well, evidenced by limited under the First Amendment, chaperone, and offered leaflets on the dents’ very eyes were important human rights an increase in middle fingers from thereby giving corporations the event. The adult was quite emphatic and principles of a democracy in force: to them of late. same rights as persons. In my opin- in declaring that he didn’t want the assemble and to petition the government when Apparently a few of the workers ion, this decision harms the election class to have “any of that stuff,” and citizens feel government is not serving their at the VA are eager enough to get process, and was duly criticized by said that the students “...wanted to best interests. To ignore such an important home that they don’t particularly President Obama during the State GUEST have a quiet lunch.” lesson for the youngsters in favor of “a quiet care if they run into the patients of the Union address last year. The OPINION In my opinion, the teacher or lunch” was sad, if not plain irresponsible — they’re trying to serve. I hope that details of and lack of jurisprudence chaperone missed an important civ- and certainly short-sighted. someone in authority at the VA in this decision are really not the ics lesson. Two weeks prior, a tragic Hopefully, one day, these young students will takes some control of the situation point of this article, however. event happened in Tucson, Arizona, where be taught that it is their civic duty to engage in before someone gets run over cross- As a participant in the civil rights movement, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords was shot, and others these events when warranted. In a democracy, ing Willow. I have attended innumerable rallies. In this one, killed and wounded. One of those slain was they will always be warranted. A Brian Schar, Laurel Avenue there were the traditional trappings: handmade Christina Green, a third-grader. Christina signs expressing grievances, informational was heralded for her interest in public ser- Henry Organ lives in Menlo Park. Dogs lost at Stanford end up at San Martin shelter article about vanishing squirrels at it now costs more than three times the cap, hopeful ground squirrels the methane gas and collect the Editor: Bedwell Bayfront Park. as much to take the train then to migrated from the surrounding leacheate, this park is the source of We found out the hard way that if As a frequent walker at the park, I drive my car. The inconvenience of area doing what squirrels do, dig- the greatest volume of greenhouse your dog gets loose on the Stanford have also noticed the lack of squir- being bumped along with the ever- ging burrows in the shallow top gas in the city of Menlo Park. I campus they do not take the dog to rels there but didn’t think too much increasing cost has driven many of soil, foraging and breeding. Black- doubt the squirrels are to blame. the Palo Alto Shelter, nor even the about it. However I am thinking us away and back to our cars. shouldered kites, redtail hawks and We can argue about the merits Santa Clara shelter. about it now. Rich Stephens, Los Gatos northern harriers came to feed on of the killing and the disruption They have a contract with the Don’t you think that the city of the squirrels. The squirrels and the of a simple ecosystem. As the Jan. Menlo Park could have found a bet- raptors found the dump. Now the 26 Almanac editorial points out, “high-kill-rate” San Martin shelter Few consulted in decision down near Gilroy. ter way to deal with this? Did they squirrels are gone or the raptors the process by which this was Even if, as I did, you call the Stan- really exhaust all humane options to eradicate squirrels have no natural reason to be there. accomplished was not a good one. ford police, this is where your dog before they settled on poisoning the Editor: Letís hope the burrowing owls are No public notice, no hearings and will end up and possibly die. A rea- little guys to death? Bet that didn’t Menlo Parkís old Marsh Road not threatened. it appears that there was no con- sonable person would check with feel too good. All that anguish and garbage dump, which is now For a measly payment of $9,750, sultation with the Environmental the San Mateo, Palo Alto and Santa pain for the low, low price of just referred to as the old landfill, has the city hired Animal Damage Quality Commission, the Parks & Clara humane societies, but no one under $10,000. had a long and shaky history. Management to poison all the Recreation Commission or Friends would even contemplate the San Denise Seibert, Redwood City When the dump closed sev- squirrels. Public Works felt the of Bedwell Bayfront Park. Some- Martin shelter. This contract that eral ideas were considered and dis- burrowing squirrels were a threat thingís wrong with this picture. Stanford has needs to be changed. Biker priced out of missed. The first was a golf course to the 50-year-old cap. Are trees a Brielle Johnck Janet Davis Caltrain commute and almost 50 years later, the last threat to the cap? What is known is Former Menlo Park that despite the attempts to capture Environmental Commissioner Alpine Road, Menlo Park Editor: was a golf course. In between, the I used to be a regular rider of Cal- mounds of garbage began to look Bad idea to build 12,000 train with my bicycle, commuting like hills and European annual homes in salt ponds from Los Gatos to Redwood City. grasses took hold. Australian ever- green shrubs and trees were planted Editor: Last year, with ticket costs and the risk of being bumped increasing, I that have survived with varying Our education: The idea of the restorable salt degrees of success. With no expla- a tradition of ponds in Redwood City being devel- reduced my ridership significantly. critical inquiry, Although it took more than twice nation, a palm tree and one oak oped into 12,000 new houses is have taken root. righteous living, ludicrous. In a sane world, Redwood as long via bike and train than by and outstanding car, I still tried to do my part to be Amongst this unlikely setting, academics City would no more consider per- with methane gas leaking through mitting one single-family dwelling green. With this last fair increase, out there than on the moon — why found that children are not able to combine per- are they considering an entire city? spective (the way that objects appear on the basis
I’ve heard the developers promis- of where they are in space) and binocular depth KEHILLAH 3900 Fabian Way, ing pie in the sky, but realistically information (using both eyes together to view an Palo Alto, CA 94303 those promises are seldom true object) until they reach age twelve. Clear vision is crucially important to a childís for the people hearing them. The academic performance and ability to social- burden on the roads, the flood- ize. At MENLO OPTICAL, our goal is to help ing potential, not to mention the you focus easily and see comfortably under Kehillah values education hardship created for the current all conditions. We carry lenses that are impact resistant, scratch- protected, and comfortable to Kehillah educates with values residents along East Bayshore Road, wear. Please bring your eyewear prescription to are all inconceivable to me. us at 1166 University Drive, on the corner of Oak Join us. Could it be that someone in the THE WAY CHILDREN Grove Avenue and University Drive, or call us at city is dreaming of the sound of a SEE THINGS 322-3900 if you have questions about eyewear. In addition to children and adults not seeing P.S. A recent study reveals that while children cash register loudly “chinging?” under age six are able to keep perspective and For more information email Virginia Lee, San Carlos eye to eye, kids literally see the world differently from the way that grown-ups do. According to binocular visual information separate, adults [email protected] one recent study, children under age twelve do cannot do so. Missing the squirrels not combine sensory information when trying or call 650.213.9600 x154 to make sense of their surroundings. Not only Mark Schmidt is an American Board of Opticianry at Bayfront Park do youngsters separate senses such as vision and National Contact Lens Examiners Certified and sound, their brains also separate the input Optician licensed by the Medical Board of California. He Editor: they receive when viewing an image with one can be easily reached at Menlo Optical, 1166 University Kehillah is a beneficiary of the Levine-Lent Family Foundation, Len & Vivian Lehmann, This is in response to last week’s eye compared with both eyes. In fact, researchers Drive, Menlo Park. 650-322-3900. area Jewish Community Federations, and the Jim Joseph Foundation. February 2, 2011 N The Almanac N 15 FOR SALE FOR SALE
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68 Adam Way, Atherton 170 Stone Pine Lane, Menlo Park Nearing completion on over 1 acre in prime West Atherton, Urban-style living close to downtown with private garden terrace; this stunning new three-level home features 6 bedrooms with 3-bedroom 2.5-bath home features great room kitchen with fireplace 7 full and 2 half baths, a cabaña, and a pool, all built with and surround sound; large master suite, and numerous skylights. extraordinary detail and craftsmanship. Association pool; Menlo Park schools. Offered at $11,500,000 Offered at $1,195,000
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Selby Lane, Atherton Stockbridge Avenue, Atherton Prime West Atherton location on tranquil cul-de-sac, this 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath custom home built in 2001 with 8-bedroom, 6.5-bath home includes separate 1-bedroom, traditional appeal and beautiful finishes; includes 1-bath guest house with full kitchen, plus a pool; separate studio guest house, pool, and beautiful grounds approximately 1 acre on approximately 1 acre; Las Lomitas schools
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Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. 16 N The Almanac N February 2, 2011