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Cafe Zoe fights for future | Page 7 F E B R U A R Y 1 2 , 2 0 1 4 | VO L . 4 9 N O. 2 3 W W W. T H E A L M A N AC O N L I N E . C O M Japan R E V I S I T E D Menlo Park father and daughter visit lesser-known places in Japan Section 2 600 MOORE ROAD, WOODSIDE $13,888,000 Private estate on 3.24 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds Kristin Cashin CalBRE 01438764 650 321 8900 1081 SIERRA DRIVE, MENLO PARK $2,599,000 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in desirable Sharon Heights Kristin Cashin CalBRE 01438764 650 321 8900 2 N The Almanac N TheAlmanacOnline.com N February 12, 2014 140 ELEANOR DRIVE, WOODSIDE $6,800,000 Views, amenities, and luxury. Las Lomitas School District Kristin Cashin CalBRE 01438764 650 321 8900 325 NIMITZ AVENUE, REDWOOD CITY $1,438,000 5-bedroom, 2.5-bath home close to the Atherton border Carolyn Rianda CalBRE 01501805 650 321 8900 UP F RONT Laura Rich leaves school board, but not the world of learning By Renee Batti Almanac News Editor I t all started with 16 unmatched fragments of carpeting greeting her in the hallway outside the multipurpose room during a 1993 visit to Encinal School. Laura Rich, whose son Tyler was a new student at the elementary school, recently recalled her reaction to the unexpected sight: "I was horrified." But what could be done when the school district's budgetary priorities centered on educational programs, not cosmetic enhancement of its schools? "I had just worked on a Christmas in April project, and thought, maybe we could get (that group) involved to help us," she said in an interview with the Almanac, referring to the organization, now called Rebuilding Together, that organizes volunteers to help nonprofits and low-income people repair and renovate homes and properties. As unlikely as the prospect was that a school in affluent Atherton would register on the radar of a group focused on those in need, the organization took on the project after inspecting the school and finding conditions, including sidewalks and other outdoor areas, that rivaled those of the low-wealth neighboring Ravenswood school district, Ms. Rich said, adding, "It looked like a prison yard." That was Ms. Rich's first foray into the demanding world of school volunteerism — an experience, she said, that revealed to her that most parents believed nothing could be done about problems they saw at their kids' schools, but whose success revealed the opposite. "Before that, the school couldn't get volunteers," she said. After the campus spruceup that required 200 parent volunteers to join the 200 volunteers from Menlo Park-based Raychem, "the commitment Michelle Le/The Almanac Laura Rich: "One of the things that makes Menlo Park different is that the board is not afraid to innovate — to try something different." at the school surged," she said. And, she added, "it started the path (of volunteerism) for me." That path led to leadership roles on the school's PTA, then a successful run for the Menlo Park City School District board in 1998. Ms. Rich last month ended her tenure on that board after 15 years, making her the longest-serving board member ever, according to district records. During those years, she worked with three different superintendents and a number of two- and three-term board colleagues with whom she pored over dense budgets, studied and tweaked campus renovation plans, approved curriculum changes, presided over personnel matters, and hammered out countless policy changes to manage the four-school district that serves kids in Menlo Park and Atherton. She also took on a rather untraditional role for a school board member: "I was basically the communications depart- ment" for many years, she said. She put on that hat while still PTA president at Encinal, after observing the amount of time office staff spent on the phone answering basic questions. She jumped in to create a website for Encinal, and once she was on the board, the project grew to include all schools, the district, and the school foundation. In addition to those roles, Ms. Rich took on broader challenges on behalf of education, becoming a member, then president, of the San Mateo County School Boards Association; and serving as a director for the California School Boards Association. "One of Laura's great strengths over the years has been her willingness to be involved not only in Menlo Park, but also at the county and state level," said Anne Campbell, the county's superintendent of schools. "The past 10 years have been turbulent ones for schools, and Laura has been a forceful presence in numerous Sacramento high-level discussions, speaking up and advocating for local schools." In that role, Ms. Rich has had the opportunity to observe how other school districts and their boards operate. "One of the things that makes Menlo Park different is that the board is not afraid to innovate — to try something different," she said. Examples of innovation include a program that "excites me every year," — the annual Jeannie Ritchie Grant program that, with funds from the school foundation, "encourages teacher-designed, innovative programs that have led to some fabulous experiences for children over the years." The district in recent years has also established a Spanish immersion program, and has launched a series of new, in some cases pioneering programs at Hillview Middle School. Ms. Rich said she also NOW OPEN ♥♥ ♥ ♥ Call CELESTE today to book your appointment (650) 561-3567 FIRST TIME CLIENTS : Mention this ad for a 10% discount CUT s COLOR s STYLE 1183 El Camino Real, Menlo Park Check us out on CTG Salon ! e l a S g n i s o l C e tor S ! o G t s u M g n i h t y r e v E See LAURA RICH, page 6 CALLING ON THE ALMANAC Newsroom: Newsroom fax: Advertising: Advertising fax: Classified ads: 223-6525 223-7525 854-2626 223-7570 854-0858 N E-mail news, information, obituaries and photos (with captions) to: firstname.lastname@example.com N E-mail letters to the editor to: firstname.lastname@example.com To request free delivery, or stop delivery, of The Almanac in zip code 94025, 94027, 94028 and the Woodside portion of 94062, call 854-2626. THE ALMANAC (ISSN 1097-3095 and USPS 459370) is published every Wednesday by Embarcadero Media, 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park, CA 940256558. Periodicals Postage Paid at Menlo Park, CA and at additional mailing offices. Adjudicated a newspaper of general circulation for San Mateo County, The Almanac is delivered free to homes in Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley and Woodside. Subscriptions for $60 per year or $100 per 2 years are welcome. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Almanac, 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park, CA 94025-6558. Copyright ©2012 by Embarcadero Media, All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. 500 University Ave. 650.327.0668 Palo Alto w w w. p a l o a l t o r u g g a l l e r y. c o m February 12, 2014 N TheAlmanacOnline.com N The Almanac N 3 Type to enter text Trust Your Face to a Specialist We're expanding and relocating! Join us at our new Palo Alto location. Now offering CoolSculpting. Visit Our Website for Information on Specials and Events. 320 Lambert Ave www.hesslerplasticsurgery.com 650.799.9009 LIBERO PURUS SODALES MAURIS, EU VEHICULA LECTUS VELIT NEC VELIT: 4 N The Almanac N TheAlmanacOnline.com N February 12, 2014 www.apple.com/iwork Local News M E N L O P A R K | A T H E R T O N | W O O D S I D E | P O R T O L A V A L L E Y Little League facilities: Too big for the park? ■ Some Atherton residents think so. By Renee Batti Almanac News Editor W hen Atherton voters overwhelmingly approved a 2012 ballot measure allowing ball field improvements in their town's only park, many believed their vote merely permitted the town to work with Menlo-Atherton Little League to come up with a reasonable plan for such a project. Now, a number of residents who voted for Measure M are protesting what they believe to be a circumvention of the town's normal planning process to allow the youth sports organization to build, at its own expense, a permanent grandstand on the Holbrook-Palmer Park playing field that they say is too big and inappropriate for the park setting. Several of those residents spoke out at the Jan. 15 City Council meeting at which the council, on a 3-2 vote, sanctioned the Little League's plan for a grandstand designed to seat 200 people. "It's a question of scope," Julie Quinlan told the council after noting that she's the mother of a Little League player, and praising the organization for its work. "Having attended many, many, many Little League games, I think this is way too big," she said, adding that she hasn't seen more than 40 or 50 people attending the games. "I urge the council to approve what is needed and reasonable, N AT HERTON A number of residents who voted for Measure M are protesting what they believe to be a circumvention of the town's normal planning process. given the use, and no more." Her assessment of the grandstand's proposed size was echoed by other residents at the meeting, and by Phil Lively, who was speaking for the town's Planning Commission, of which he is vice chair. The commission last year, after conducting three public meetings on the plans, unanimously found that the proposed size of the project was "too monumental and too large in scale," and recommended that it be downsized. Council members Bill Widmer and Jim Dobbie agreed that the size of the grandstand edifice, which would also include restrooms and a storage area, should be reduced. They voted against the council's action that night, which included approval of other, less controversial Little League plans for field and park improvements, and authorization of the city manager to execute an agreement with the organization after administrative permits are issued. What did voters approve? Adding to the controversy was the town staff's interpretation that in approving Measure M, residents were sanctioning a grandstand that seats 200. In a staff report, Community Services Director Mike Kashiwagi wrote that "staff believes that passage of Measure M established parameters and approved construction of ... permanent covered seating for 200 spectators and covered dugouts." Although neither the ballot language nor the impartial analysis written by City Attorney Bill Conners specified the size of the "covered seating for spectators" included in the measure, the rebuttal to the argument in favor of the measure referred to "200 seats at the baseball stadium." Ballot arguments, Mr. Conners told the Almanac, along with the ballot language and the impartial analysis "together paint a picture so that voters See LITTLE LEAGUE, page 8 Elderly driver who hit twins not at fault in earlier accident By Sandy Brundage Mr. Nelson was involved in an accident in Menlo Park on Nov. 8, 2012, and had his lthough the plaintiffs in license suspended by the DMV a lawsuit filed against as a result until it was re-issued a 90-year-old man who in August 2013. Therefore, the crashed a BMW SUV into complaint alleges, he should 6-year-old twins on a Menlo have known "it was not safe" Park sidewalk have called his for him to drive. driving record into question, an However, according to police incident cited in their updated records, that 2012 accident complaint appears to have little involved another driver hitting relevance. Mr. Nelson's car when the driver The Oct. 17 crash broke one backed out of a parking space. twin's arm and left the other boy Investigators determined Mr. in critical condition; Nelson was not the he was released from party at fault, police Stanford Hospital Police say that said, which calls into following a five-week question whether the stay and multiple sur- in the earlier DMV would even geries. accident, a car have had grounds The Cadigan family for suspending his backed into license. filed a lawsuit against the driver, Edward The Cadigans' attorhis vehicle. Nelson, seeking punineys, Michael Kelly tive as well as general and Valerie Rose, did damages for injuries ranging not respond to inquiries from from multiple, extensive skin the Almanac as to why they grafts and lower-body dam- chose to include that incident in age; orthopedic and soft-tissue the amended complaint. damage to the upper body; and Last month the District Attoremotional trauma. ney's Office, in explaining its A San Mateo County Supe- decision to file no criminal rior Court judge dismissed charges against Mr. Nelson for the request for punitive dam- the Oct. 17 crash, said that he ages last month, but allowed had no prior suspensions or the family's attorneys to file an history of reckless driving. Mr. amended complaint, which they Nelson is currently without a did on Feb. 3. See ELDERLY DRIVER, page 6 The updated filing claims Almanac Staff Writer A Photo by Michelle Le/The Almanac The historic building at El Camino Real and Santa Cruz Avenue once housed Menlo Park's administrative and police departments. First look at plans for BBC renovation By Sandy Brundage Almanac Staff Writer A three-floor restaurant, including a rooftop deck, will replace the BBC in Menlo Park, if all goes according to plan. Rob Fischer, who owns the Palo Alto Creamery along with Reposado and, in Mountain View, Gravity and Scratch, added the BBC to his roster last July. The Planning Commission was scheduled to review the architectural details of his plan for the historic Menlo Park restaurant, located at 1090 El Camino Real, during its Feb. 10 meeting. The new restaurant would operate on three floors, with an expanded mezzanine for indoor and outdoor dining on the ground floor. According to the city, Mr. Fischer wants to add an exterior staircase, create an outdoor dining area with a bar and grill on the roof, and switch the main entry from El Camino Real to Santa Cruz Avenue. See BBC RENOVATION, page 8 February 12, 2014 N TheAlmanacOnline.com N The Almanac N 5 N E W S -EAT 0RODUCE s &INE &OODS 7INE ,IQUOR s $ELICATESSEN (ARDWARE 'RAIN Open 6:30 am - 8:00 pm daily Sales Dates: Feb. 12– 15 4420 Alpine Rd., Portola Valley phone 650.851.1711 3015 Woodside Rd., Woodside phone 650.851.1511 Fresh Produce Minneola .99¢lb. Tasty $ Red Seedless Grapes .... 2.99lb. Long $ Asparagus ..................... 1.99lb. Tangelos ........................... Meat and Seafood The board of the Sequoia Union High School District meets Wednesday, Feb. 12, to discuss a pollster's report on voter willingness to fund major expansion to high school facilities, including on the campuses of Woodside and Menlo-Atherton. The meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. at district headquarters at 480 James Ave. in Redwood City. The poll sampled 800 likely voters in late January about their support for bond measures of varying amounts, according to a staff report. The district says it needs capital improvement funds to accommodate an expected enrollment surge over the next six years. A community task force recently recommended a $225 million measure. M-A is expected to take the brunt of the enrollment increase with 2,600 students by the 202021 school year, up from the current 2,000. Woodside High could rise to 2,200 by 2020-21, about 400 more students than at present. The board will also consider the possibility of a volunteer campaign committee to build support for the measure and the effect on such a campaign of putting the measure on the June ballot versus the November ballot. LAURA RICH art and archaeology, she was hooked. She has studied with him now for four years, she said, and plans to participate in his field study this summer. Ms. Rich's resignation came 11 months before her fourth term was to end; she cited family commitments that required her to travel. In addition to those commitments, she will also be able to spend more time with her husband, Mark Rich, who travels often in his job. As a member of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, or DARPA, he's part of an elite team that has changed the world with technological breakthroughs leading to development of, among other things, the Internet. In some ways, the role her husband plays through his work is not much different from her work in education, she said. "We are both challenged to be innovative within a government bureaucracy. " Referring to educational leaders, she noted: "In our own way, by educating children, we're changing the world. We have to look at every single child as the person who may change the world — or maybe a corner of their world. But we're laying the foundation." $ 11.98lb. Finger Licken' $ Tri-Tip .............................. 8.98lb. $ Rock Cod (Snapper).. 9.98lb. Cowboy Steaks ........ How big will high school bond measure be? continued from page 3 On Sale Grocery Country Crock Spread $ 1.79 Crunchmaster Multi-Seed Crackers$ 4 oz. .......................................................... 2.19 Sugar Bowl Bakery Madeleines $ 8 oz. ......................................................... 2.99 Amy's Macaroni & Cheese $ 9 oz. ......................................................... 1.99 C&H Pure Cane sugar $ 4 lb. bag .................................................. 2.49 15 oz. ........................................................ Deli Department We have sweets for your sweetheart! Chocolate covered strawberries Asst. Valentine cookies $3.79 ea or $8.79 box Red Velvet Cake $4.79 slice Mini Valentine cupcakes $5.99 dz Wine and Spirits Olema Olema is produced by Amici Cellars, in Calistoga. Their goal is to deliver a premium wine experience at "everyday" prices. These wine over-deliver. The Pinot Noir is a brand new edition to the line-up and is the gem of the group. '12 Olema Chardonnay, Sonoma County ......................... Reg. $14.99 Sale $12.99 is excited about new approaches adopted by the district for its professional development programs. Educators who have an aversion to trying new things, to taking risks, "are bad role models for a child," she said. Exploring new approaches to education to keep up in a fast-changing world "inspires kids to be lifelong learners," she said. "The world is too big and interesting to stop learning." Ms. Rich lives by those words, which is one reason her retirement from the board won't ensure much leisure time. She has taken a number of courses from the Stanford Continuing Studies program, including Mandarin. When the district was exploring a language immersion program, she explained, she saw Mandarin as a good option. "There were some comments that Mandarin was too difficult to learn. I decided to see if that was true. ... (and) studied it for a year and a half at Stanford." Her interest expanded to Chinese art, and after enrolling in Patrick Hunt's class on Chinese ELDERLY DRIVER continued from page 5 Flavors of apple, citrus and toasty oak lead to a satisfying finish. '12 Olema Pinot Noir, Sonoma County............................... Reg. $19.99 Sale $16.99 Flavors of cherry pie, spice and cocoa culminate in a rich finish. '11 Olema Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County ...... Reg. $19.99 Sale $16.99 Displays aromas of currants, cedar and espresso, with black fruits, toffee and mocha flavors. (Woodside location only) 6 N The Almanac N TheAlmanacOnline.com N February 12, 2014 license, however, but it's unclear whether that's the result of a suspension or a voluntary surrender. Under California criminal law, an infraction for driving on the sidewalk was the only possible charge, and the evidence didn't support filing it, A according to the District Attorney's Office, because nothing indicated that Mr. Nelson intentionally hit the boys. Mr. Nelson did not respond to requests for comment. His attorneys have now asked the court to compel representatives from BMW to show up for deposition regarding data collected from his SUV after the Oct. 17 accident. A R EAL E STATE Q&A N E W S by Monica Corman One Reason Homeowners Are Not Moving Dear Monica: I have lived in my house for many years and raised my family here. My home is too large for me and I would like to move to a smaller one and cash in this major asset. But I have so many ties to this community and cannot see anywhere else I would be as happy living as I am here. I have no mortgage, my property taxes are low, and I would have significant capital gains to pay were I to sell. Do you have any advice you can give me? Betty G. Dear Betty: Your situation is very common and many other homeowners are weighing the pros and cons of selling their homes just as you are doing. The first and most important factor in making this decision is to identify another place you would like to live. If you sell your home you don't have to buy right away. You can rent a condo in your same community and decide if you like the complex enough to buy a unit there. You may find that you like not having the responsibility of maintaining a large property. You can keep your low property taxes if you move to a property of equal or lesser value within the same county (per Prop. 60) or to one of the other counties that allow inter-county property tax transfers (per Prop. 90). To avoid paying capital gains taxes will be more complicated. You would have to rent your house out for a period of time and then exchange it into one or more rental properties. You could defer paying the gain if you did this. Then after a period of time you could move into one of the properties and make it your primary residence. Your attorney and CPA should advise you on your particular situation. You are fortunate to have such a valuable asset and the market is very good should you decide to sell. For answers to any questions you may have on real estate, you may e-mail me at email@example.com or call 462-1111, Alain Pinel Realtors. I also offer a free market analysis of your property. www.MonicaCorman.com Photo by Michelle Le/The Almanac MENLO PARK CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT CITIZENS' BOND OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE A customer walks to Cafe Zoe at Menalto Corners on Monday. OPEN POSITIONS Cafe Zoe building up for sale By Sandy Brundage Almanac Staff Writer T he Willows neighborhood may need to fight for Cafe Zoe, a popular community hangout, as the landlord of Menalto Corners has put the building up for sale. The 4,400-square-foot retail center at 1923-1929 Menalto Ave. is listed at $1.45 million, according to LoopNet. Its four tenants include Cafe Zoe, owned by Kathleen Daly, who was recently honored by the city as a "superhero" for her volunteer work as well as business acumen. Unfortunately, the sale of Menalto Corners could leave the cafe's future on shaky ground. Ms. Daly told the Almanac that she, like two other tenants — Twig and Petals and Captivating Dance by Nona — currently has no lease. The fourth tenant, Habibi's Salon, currently holds a lease. The building's owner, Anatole Zelkin, said he considered the sale a private matter. "Who cares?" he replied when asked why he decided to list the property and what would happen to the tenants. "Why do you want to know my business? They probably will need to move. I don't care about Cafe Zoe." He declined to comment further. Ms. Daly said she learned about the potential sale in early January. "I was trying to negotiate a new lease with my landlord as I felt the rent increase was too high to absorb so quickly," Ms. Daly said. "He warned me I had two weeks. I responded but too late — he had already selected a broker and the building would be more valuable without leases." Cafe's owner fights to secure future for popular community business. Mr. Zelkin raised the monthly rent by $200 a month, plus 25 percent of taxes, water and sewer, she said. Her counter-offer — to pay the $200 plus water and sewer, and in two years, add a percentage of any sales increase — went without a response. "The hard part of all this is that we have had a great relationship for five-and-a-half years. I know and he has said that we have all worked hard to make Menalto Corners a place the Willows would be proud of," Ms. Daly said. "He allowed all of us to pay 'under market rents' but that has more to do with the fact that it was not a thriving destination to begin with. It has and continues to take a lot of effort." So Ms. Daly is now seeking "small business friendly" investors who understand the challenges of operating at that location to help purchase the site. She'd welcome a call from anyone intrigued by the opportunity; a few people, including a Willows neighbor, have already shown some interest. There's some fear that as word spreads, the likelihood of a sale rises, according to Ms. Daly, but she said she remains optimistic despite knowing that her landlord is already receiving offers. "Without sounding stupid I have to admit I have never negotiated or, for that matter, considered owning commercial property, so I am learning the hard way," she said. Ms. Daly told the Almanac that she'd also discovered she may qualify for a small business loan, and was pursuing that option with a bank. The owner of Twig and Petals, a floral boutique located at Menalto Corners for about three years, said everybody was talking about the sale, but until a new landlord comes onboard, it's hard to predict the impact. "Will they want to raise the rent, will they kick us out? We just don't know what they will want to do. We're hoping we get a nice buyer who cares about our little businesses and wants to see us do well," Bella Hicks said. "We're staying positive." A The Menlo Park City School District is seeking potential candidates to fill positions on the Citizens Bond Oversight Committee. In November 2013, voters within the Menlo Park City School District boundaries approved the Measure W Bond to modernize and provide new school facilities. The Bond was passed per Proposition 39, which requires the creation of a Bond Oversight Committee. This volunteer committee is responsible for performing oversight activities such as review of bond expenditures and preparation of annual reports as set forth by Proposition 39. The Committee meets at minimum on a quarterly basis. The Committee is comprised of seven people from different segments of the Community. The District is currently seeking to fill the 7 vacant positions. One position is for a representative of the business community within the District; one position is for a representative active in a senior citizen's organization; one position is for a representative active in a bona fide taxpayers' organization; one position is for a representative who is a parent or guardian of a child enrolled in the District; and one position is for a representative who is a parent or guardian of a child enrolled in the School District and is active in a Parent-Teacher Organization or School Site Council. Two positions are at large and must meet the resident and age requirements. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and a resident of the School District. For any further questions, please call Ahmad Sheikholeslami at 650-321-7140. Deadline to apply is February 25, 2014. If you are interested in this position, please submit a Letter of Interest as well as background information about yourself and the organization in which you are active to: firstname.lastname@example.com or to: Menlo Park City School District Attn: Ahmad Sheikholeslami 181 Encinal Ave. Atherton, CA 94027 Good for Business. Good for You. Good for the Community. February 12, 2014 N TheAlmanacOnline.com N The Almanac N 7 N E W S Priory student co-produces award-winning short film By Emma Marsano Special to the Almanac F or many high school students, spring break means taking a couple of weeks off to relax. But for Zoey Lin, an international student in her junior year at the Woodside Priory in Portola Valley, spring break in April 2013 meant a trip to Hangzhou, China, to shoot a short film that she had helped write, cast and fund. Zoey grew up in Hong Kong, where she learned English in school. As she got older, she felt compelled to spend most of her free time preparing for the standardized tests that she says dominate Hong Kong's educational system, rather than pursing her interests in photography and fashion. Unhappy with the prospect of continuing to sacrifice her creative passions, Zoey decided to come to the United States for high school. She applied to Woodside Priory's boarding school, and after enrolling, took advantage of the school's visual media and drama programs. In January 2013, she and a friend began writing the script for a 40-minute feature film, "Butterfly Lovers." The movie is an adaptation of a well-known Chinese legend of the same name, which tells the tragic story of a young man and woman who fall in love, only to find out that the young woman's family has already arranged her engagement to a wealthy stranger. At the end of the original legend, both lovers die, but their spirits LITTLE LEAGUE continued from page 5 know what they're voting on." Some residents, including Ms. Quinlan, an attorney, and Denise Kupperman, dispute that assessment. "When I voted for this ballot measure, my understanding was that I was voting for improvements to the Little League field," Ms. Kupperman told the council. "I did not ... consider that the rebuttal and the arguments were the legal part of the ballot measure since (they are) really just arguments, and people can basically say whatever they want. ... It's not a fact that we voted on a structure for 200 people, and that is my major concern." Further complicating the question is the language in the city attorney's impartial analysis stating that approval of Measure M "will not automatically grant the Little League improvement proposal which will still have live on together as a pair of butterflies (hence the legend's name). Zoey knew when she began working on "Butterfly Lovers" that most English-speakers — her high school classmates included — would associate the film's basic plot with the Shakespearean tragedy "Romeo and Juliet." In fact, she was counting on that piece of shared cultural understanding, because one of her main goals in writing "Butterfly Lovers," a Mandarin-language film, was to make a movie that would be emotionally and culturally accessible to a young American demographic, with or without English subtitles. But Zoey didn't limit herself to the structure of the ancient legend when she helped write "Butterfly Lovers." She had been inspired by the film adaptation of the novel "Cloud Atlas" when it was released in late 2012, so she tried to emulate author David Mitchell's technique of weaving together interrelated story lines from different time periods. In Zoey's film, the young lovers of the original legend share screen-time with present-day versions of themselves; they are given the chance to start over together in modern times. Zoey's aim was to explore the idea that "whatever you did in the past affects your position in the future as well," and to demonstrate that in this day and age, we all have the freedom to resist societal pressure to conform. Zoey also cites filmmaker Baz Luhrmann as a source of creative inspiration. She especially admires his ability to combine "detail in fashion with avantgarde filmmaking strategies," to go through the normal Town land use review process." Mr. Conners noted during the Jan. 15 meeting that interpreting what exactly voters intended "is gray area." He noted later that he "never told the City Council they had to allow 200 seats." The question may, in the end, not have mattered to the council members who supported the grandstand's 200-seat capacity. Mayor Cary Wiest and Councilwoman Elizabeth Lewis seemed comfortable with the size, with Ms. Lewis speculating that as Little League grows, more people will attend the games. Councilman Rick DeGolia told the Almanac that he would have preferred a scaled-down grandstand plan. "Personally, I believe that it's a third (larger) than what's needed," he said. He said he didn't believe that Mr. Conners was directing the council to approve the larger size, but he voted for it because he didn't want the Little League 8 N The Almanac N TheAlmanacOnline.com N February 12, 2014 Photo courtesy of Zoey Lin Woodside Priory student Zoey Lin: "My dad always told me that, as long as I can bear the failure, (I can) go do whatever I want." and to add modern elements to classic stories. Zoey and her co-writer finished their screenplay in February 2013, and by April, they were ready to travel to China to begin filming. After arriving, they only had two weeks of spring break to shoot the movie. "So the timing was pressured." "Pressured," as it turns out, is something of an understatement. Zoey and her 23-person cast and crew sometimes worked for 18 hours at a time, because for each day of filming, actors needed to don complex traditional Chinese costumes, and have their hair and makeup done. Between February and April, Zoey recruited the costume designer, the makeup artists, the camera crew, and the actors who worked on her movie, by reaching out to friends she had made at various fashion events, to walk away from the project. "I believe it was proposed (by town officials) to the Little League to reduce the seating numbers, but they rejected that," he said. "The issue to my mind was 50 unnecessary seats, and (that wasn't) worth sacrificing the donation," he said. "I also feel that a wonderful contribution is being made to the town. ... I think this is going to be a really good thing for the park and for Atherton." Little League officials now must submit final plans and specifications to the town to receive permits and administrative approvals before a final agreement is signed. Town planner Lisa Costa Sanders said she doesn't expect the designs for the project to change significantly, but staff will review the plans for compliance with building and fire codes, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, and other town requirements. A photo-shoots, and cosplay conferences (events where fans of comic books, video games and films gather and dress up as their favorite characters). "There were a lot of people interested (in the film) because this was the first modern version of the legend," she says. Zoey also needed to raise money, in order to rent lighting and camera equipment and pay her cast and crew. Ever resourceful, she offered product placement to a variety of businesses — from furniture companies to animation studios to the car company Bentley Motors — in exchange for sponsorship. Even then, she still had one final obstacle to overcome: She had to negotiate with the local government of the city of Hangzhou for the chance to film scenes inside of the Hu Xueyan mansion, a residence that was commissioned in 1872 by one of the wealthiest businessmen of the Qing Dynasty. Today, the home is a tourist attraction, but most of its rooms are kept blocked off from the public for preservation's sake. Not to be dissuaded by such restrictions, Zoey got in touch with local government officials, and told them, "We are hoping to display China's beautiful legends and culture to the world." After a while, "they finally agreed to let us use about three days of shooting time," she recalls. "We couldn't use (any lighting equipment) and we had to talk really quietly; there were guards watching over everything." After returning to California, Zoey saw her film through postproduction, even adding in special effects herself. In June, the film premiered to an audience of 400 guests and reporters at the Sheraton Hotel in Hangzhou. After the premier, "Butterfly Lovers" received many positive critical reviews. Zoey also received an offer from a production company that was interested in buying the film, but turned it down, because she had already signed a contract with youku.ch (China's equivalent to YouTube) to release the film online. Butterfly Lovers has garnered over 800,000 views on youku.ch since its release, and what's more, a shortened, 10-minute version of the film won the Legends of Hangzhou MicroMovie Contest for 2013-14. Having succeeded in such a massive undertaking as helping to write, produce, and direct a short film, Zoey says she is very grateful for all of the support she received along the way. She worked with Woodside Priory Visual Arts teacher Hovey Clark on the screenplay, and was encouraged at every step by her family. "My dad always told me that, as long as I can bear the failure, (I can) go do whatever I want," she says. Going forward, Zoey and her collaborators are considering extending "Butterfly Lovers" into a full-length feature film. She is also hoping to make another film this summer, after having such a great experience making "Butterfly Lovers." "The part I really enjoyed was when the entire crew put their trust in me and in my vision of the film," Zoey says. In the end, she adds, "I think the result is more than we expected it to be." BBC RENOVATION The historic building housed Menlo Park's administrative and police departments before becoming the BBC. In more recent years the rowdy nightspot gained a checkered history after a busboy and a cook were arrested for sexually assaulting two women in an upstairs room at the club in 2010. Both pleaded guilty to related charges. Former owners Lance White and Richard Eldridge first claimed the BBC had shut down for remodeling in January 2012 before announcing online that they were no longer in business. A few months later social media executive Owen Van Natta stepped in to reopen the club, but abandoned the plan when the financial aspects appeared unviable. continued from page 5 The changes would not expand the restaurant's square footage beyond the current 7,800 square feet, as a basement level would be closed off. It will be open seven days a week from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., with on-site alcohol sales and no live entertainment, according to the staff report. Background music in seating areas will be provided via speakers. Parking would continue to be provided via the 275-space underground garage shared with other Menlo Center businesses. Before any of that can go live, however, the structure requires seismic upgrades as well as other modifications to get up to code, which Mr. Fischer said he expected to take at least until the summer, as well as the Planning Commission signing off on the architectural details of the renovation. A See AlmanacNews.com for updates. The Planning Commission meeting was held after the Almanac's press deadline. N E W S When a mouse took over the house in Woodside Marie Wagner Krenz, who has periodically written a "Woodside Memories" column for the Almanac, writes that when her brother, Charles, passed away in 2012, she was going through his things and found this little story that he had written in 1940, when he was about 13. By Charles Wagener N MEMORIES M ice are our great- my brothers. est enemies at the Our cat, who was all black country home in except for a button of white Woodside, where we spend hairs on his breast, and every summer as well as every named Kitty, was sitting on Sunday during the rest of the the lawn when all the exciteyear. ment began. Billy picked him Not long ago the mice got up and ran into the house, into the storage closets and followed by my older brother carried away cotton bunnies and uncles. and chickens from a box They put the kitty on the of Easter decorations. They mantle, but he didn't seem also ran off with some of the to find anything of interFourth of July things. est, so he jumped down and We set traps all around went over to the door and sat the house and baited them down. with the choicest of foods. "I'll bet it's in the clock," I In general, the mice were said. "The back's open." too smart for us, but one My Uncle Herman turned evening we were happy to the clock and shook it a bit. know that we had one fewer Out jumped the mouse! enemy. General panic followed. One Wednesday after din- Everyone moved in every ner, my uncles were out- direction. My mother side in the garden; jumped on the my two brothers, sofa. My sister Herman and Billy, ran upstairs 'Get were up in the barand out to the the cat.' becue cabin playsleeping porch. ing ping pong, and I fol lowed my grandmother, my sister, but mother, sister, and I were in before I went I saw that only the living room, reading. my Uncle Herman remained All of a sudden, Grand- near the mantle, swapping mother got up, put her hands away at the mouse. to her throat, and said in The mouse made an effort a weak voice, "Oh, oh, oh, to get away, but the unlucky get the uncles in here now! thing chose a path in front There's a mouse running up of the kitty. I saw a streak and down the fireplace." of black, and then, no more We were relieved to know mouse! she had not taken sick, but Later my sister came in we were frightened to know and said that the kitty was that a mouse was among eating his dinner after his us. appetizer. I went outside to I ran outside and shouted tell him how wonderful he to my uncles, "Come to the was. house quick. There's a mouse He looked at me as if to running around the living say, "What are you talking room." about?" Then he went on "Grab him yourself, Char- eating. lie," teased my Uncle HerThe kitty might have man, but I was too fright- thought that he hadn't done ened to move. anything, but to us, he was a "Get the cat," called one of hero. A Strife on city tennis courts leads to threats, police intervention By Sandy Brundage Almanac Staff Writer S portsmanship has been in short supply on Menlo Park's tennis courts of late, as clashes over reservations have led to police calls and in some cases, threats of bodily harm. Vice Mayor Catherine Carlton said a local instructor who purchased the proper permit through the city to hold private lessons on the courts has found himself confronted by people refusing to leave when he arrives at a reserved time with a client in tow. According to the councilwoman, the animosity has extended off the courts, with threatening notes left on the instructor's car. Police have been called to referee court disputes five times since December, Chief Bob Jonsen said. Of the five calls, twice the disturbing parties left before police arrived; officers gave a warning on one call; and on the other two, no violations had occurred. Each year the city sells keys to access the 16 courts — $50 for residents, and $100 for non- N MEN L O PA RK residents. Currently, 173 people have paid for 2014 keys. Half of the courts at each of the five sites are set aside for the general public; those wishing to use the facilities for private lessons have to pay an additional fee to 'Everybody has to play nice on the tennis courts.' CATHERINE CARLTON, VICE MAYOR Menlo Park. Recreation Coordinator Matt Milde said the city plans to send out notices to the current key holders, as well as an additional 315 patrons who bought keys last year, to remind everyone of the court use policies. "In 2013, we only received a couple of complaints from renters who had a designated timeslot where there were challenges with people not wanting to move from the court, even after being made aware of the posted rental schedule," Mr. Milde said. "It's only been recently that we have been made aware of a couple of individuals who have had more vocal confrontations. For non-emergency issues residents are encouraged to contact our offices during business hours or the police non-emergency line during evenings and weekends. For emergencies, residents are advised to call 911." Ms. Carlton, who served on the Parks and Recreation commission, wants to ensure that the city's notices clearly spell out the rules and the consequences — setting a limit on how many times police may be called before you forfeit your key, for example. "I want to make it all clean and legal," she said. "My worst case fear is that someone gets really upset and shoots someone. ... it's probably the first time in memory that it's gotten this extreme. Everybody has to play nice on the tennis courts." A Ten food trucks lined up for Menlo event To rev up appetites for the new food truck event at the Menlo Park Caltrain station on Wednesday, Feb. 19, Off the Grid has released the list of 10 vendors expected at the debut. They are: El Sur (Argentinestyle empanadas); Me So Hungry (sliders, burgers, fries); Gold Rush Eatery (burgers, barbecue); Sam's ChowderMobile (seafood); The Chairman Truck (Taiwanese baos); The Boneyard (barbecue); Hiyaaa (Asian-fusion sandwiches); The Waffle Roost (chicken and waffles with Southern-style sides); Blendid (organic milkshakes); and Kara's Cupcakes. The event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Caltrain parking lot near the intersection of Merrill Street and Ravenswood Avenue. Off the Grid plans to hosts the food trucks every Wednesday night, with live music, chairs and a portable toilet provided. Controller retires Bob Adler, San Mateo County's controller — i.e. the person in charge of financial audits, accounts and reports — plans to retire when his term ends on Jan. 3, 2015. A certified public accountant, N BR IE F S Mr. Adler started working for the county nearly 20 years ago and was appointed as controller in 2012. His announcement leaves the position open for candidates in this year's upcoming election in June. SamTrans open house Get answers to your burning questions about SamTrans during the transit agency's open house on Saturday, Feb. 22. Those attending will find information on jobs and transportation, and have the chance to ride a hybrid bus to take a tour of the agency's facilities. Details on bus dispatching and vehicle maintenance will be provided. Free parking, popcorn and lemonade will be available. The event will be held at SamTrans headquarters at 1250 San Carlos Ave. in San Carlos from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Deadline extended Menlo Park residents, businesses and organizations: You now have until Feb. 18 to submit nominations for the city's 2014 Environmental Quality Awards. Among last year's winners: Facebook, Menlo Business Park and resident Carolyn Dorsch. Categories include climate action, educational, heritage tree and sustainable building. The city recently extended the deadline for nominations from the end of January. Go to tinyurl.com/eqa2014 to download the submission form. Support The Almanac's print and online coverage of our community. Join today: SupportLocalJournalism.org/Almanac February 12, 2014 N TheAlmanacOnline.com N The Almanac N 9 N E W S Community garden in Belle Haven's future? By Emma Marsano The No. 1 goal now is to meet with the community to determine the interest from residents, he said. "Once we have completed outreach to residents, we will release the site location.â€? He said the approximate location is in the vicinity of Ivy Drive and close to the Boys & Girls clubhouse at 401 Pierce Road in Menlo Park. The Rotary Club wants residents and community groups involved in the process from the beginning, which includes planning, construction, and operation, Mr. Rojas said. The club also needs to do fundraising. Sponsors are being sought and Menlo Park's Community Services Department has expressed interest in partnering with the club, Mr. Rojas said. With any luck, the garden could be underway in the first few months of 2014. For more information, email Joanna Jones at firstname.lastname@example.com. Special to the Almanac T he Rotary Club of Menlo Park, which backs a number of community causes, now has plans to help the Belle Haven neighborhood build a community garden. If the city of Menlo Park approves the club's proposal to construct the garden on city property and if the Belle Haven community supports the project, plans for the garden can move forward, said Rotary Club president and former Menlo Park city manager Glen Rojas. Belle Haven families would lease garden beds at little or no cost and save money spent at the grocery store by growing food for themselves. The garden would comprise 10 to 12 large, raised beds, spread over approximately one-third of an acre. Classes would "provide the techniques to ensure the most efficient and effective ways to grow food,â€? Mr. Rojas said. A Photo by Kyle March The "noon rideâ€? gathers at Greenoaks Stables in Portola Valley to learn about safe cycling near horses. At right is Rhonda Weiss, co-owner of Greenoaks, with her horse "Trinity.â€? 'Noon ride' stops for safety clinic They get a briefing on how to ride safely near horses About 75 cyclists on the wellknown "noon rideâ€? voluntarily stopped their lunchtime workout on Jan. 23 in Portola Valley to hear a brief tutorial on "how to ride bicycles safely in the presence of horses, and of horse trailers.â€? The session was held at the Glenoaks Stables at 3639 Alpine Road and was coordinated by Rhonda Weiss, co-owner of Glenoaks; Dirk Himley, one of the noon-ride leaders; and John Dorothy Ross, who lived in Menlo Park for 63 years before moving to Auburn, died Jan. 14 in Auburn. She was 95. Ms. Ross was born in Detroit. In 1941, she married Sidney Harold Ross of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The couple moved Join today: SupportLocalJournalism.org/Almanac 24/7On Call HOME CARE %HVW+RPH&DUH)RU/H YOUR 24/7 HOME CARE SPECIALIST .... .... *6 months minimum, offer expires 02/28/14 ................................. cards. She is survived by her daughter, Diane McLoughlin; two grandsons and one greatgrandson. Mr. Ross died in 1990. A memorial service will be held at Alta Mesa Cemetery at a later date. [ Let us help your loved ones retain their pride, dignity & independence with our fullservice home care. $1000 OFFILUVWPRQWKRIOLYHLQVHUYLFH to Menlo Park in 1949. She was employed for 30 years by the Foothill College food service. A wonderful cook, Ms. Ross loved her home, garden and sewing, say family members. A talented artist, she painted f lowers on birdhouses and ,WWDNHVWHDPZRUN Experts ................................. road users, he said. Among tips during the tutorial: â– When approaching a horse, never surprise it. Speak to it in a calm and friendly voice to announce your presence. â– Slow down to under 25 mph so that the horse feels that it can escape/run away if necessary. â– Stay at least two "rear leg lengthsâ€? away from the horse. That's twice the length of the horse's rear leg. Dorothy Ross, longtime Menlo Park resident, dies at 95 Support The Almanac's print and online coverage of our community. ‡%DWKLQJGUHVVLQJJURRPLQJ WRLOHWLQJ ‡/LJKWKRXVHNHHSLQJ PHDOSUHSDUDWLRQ ‡7UDQVSRUWDWLRQVKRSSLQJ HUUDQGV ‡0HGLFDWLRQUHPLQGHUV SK\VLFDODFWLYLWLHV ‡&RPSDQLRQVKLS PRUH Novitsky, a Woodside resident, cyclist and horse owner. Many cyclists who ride on roads west of Interstate 280 routinely spook horses, often resulting in dangerous and life-threatening situations for the horse, the bucked-off rider, the cyclists and motorists, Mr. Novitsky said. The hope is that these cyclists will share what they learned with their teammates, and that safety will improve for all regional Call (650) 328-1001 QRZWRERRN\RXU FREE initial assessment ȧZZZ&DUH,QGHHGFRPȧ&KHVWQXW6W0HQOR3DUN&$ 10 N The Almanac N TheAlmanacOnline.com N February 12, 2014 I have never had anyone put in as much personal elbow grease as Steve. He has a wonderful team at his ďŹ ngertips and can get a house beautifully ready in a hurry. With integrity, wisdom and no allergy to hard work, Steve is not a 'surface' realtor. He did the work it took to get our house sold. [ 67(9(*5$< %5( VJUD\#FEQRUFDOFRP 30+ years of local knowledge. Born in Menlo Park. Raised in Atherton. A Woodside resident. N E W S Youth club aims to bring bike shop to Belle Haven A youth-led bike shop in how to deal with customers, Belle Haven that would provide work as a team and manage employable skills for local teen- projects, Mr. Feinman said. agers and promote bicycle use in "The project combines comthe community is the goal of a munity service with tangible fundraising campaign launched skill-building,â€? he said. by the Menlo Park clubhouse of Among possible outgrowths the Boys & Girls Clubs of the from the bike shop: â– Organizing community bike Peninsula (BGCP). "Many Menlo Park youth rides as part of the clubhouse's have a passion for bicycles,â€? health and wellness campaign. â– Reducing said Jeff Feinman, truancy rates at vice president of Menlo-Atherton clubhouses and 'The project High School by high school procombines providing more grams for BGCP. "They've also community service bikes to Belle Haven teens. noticed that the with tangible â– Partnering Belle Haven comwith local busimunity lacks a skill-building.' nesses, such as bike shop.â€? JEFF FEINMAN, Facebook, to With $15,000, BOYS & GIRLS CLUB explore paththe clubhouse ways to employcould start the project, buying a shipping con- ment with their transportation tainer and turning it into a bike departments. Local residents and commushop and storage facility, he nity organizations, such as the said. Youth mechanics would be Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition, trained to repair and refurbish could be brought in as partners. bikes that could be sold, loaned Menlo Park Mayor Ray Mueller or given to families in the com- is backing the project, making munity. The mechanics would phone calls and sending emails learn other job skills, such as to mobilize volunteers. Robbie, 4, wins greeting card contest Robbie Reeves, a 4-year-old from Menlo Park, is the grand prize winner of this year's Pier 1 Imports/UNICEF Greeting Card Contest. He is one of the youngest winners in the contest's history, said Marci Greenberg, a spokesperson for U.S. Fund for UNICEF. Robbie's design of a snowman with a scarf and hat will be used in a UNICEF greeting card that will be sold nationally at Pier 1 Imports and on pier1.com during the 2014 holiday season, she said. The theme of the contest was "Joyous Celebration.â€? Robbie will receive a $5,000 scholarship and $500 worth of art supplies for his preschool. Proceeds from the sale of UNICEF cards support UNICEF programs that provide medicine, vaccines, food, primary education, clean water, and emergency relief to help Robbie Reeves and his prize-winning artwork. reduce preventable deaths in children under the age of 5. During a 29-year partnership, Pier 1 Imports has raised about $32 million for the U.S. Fund for UNICEF, Ms. Greenberg said. "The annual greeting card contest is a creative way to help raise awareness among the youth in America as to what children around the world must face each day just to survive,â€? said Caryl Stern, president of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF. Good for Business. Good for You. Good for the Community. ! ! " #$ % & ' !" # (& & )*+ ( , $ %& ' # - & ). / ) % ( # . 0 & )1 2 ! ) ) ) # 3 ! ) *+, 4 4 4 . & -, ! " # " $ % February 12, 2014 N TheAlmanacOnline.com N The Almanac N 11 N E W S Doris May Warden March 27, 1924 – January 25, 2014 Doris May Warden, a sixty year resident of San Mateo County, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on January 25, 2014. She was 89 years old. Doris was born in San Francisco to Porter H. and Ivy M. Whitaker. She was a devoted wife to George H. Warden and loving mother to her three children; Nancy L. Matis of Rohnert Park, George R. Warden (Cindy) of Redwood City and Willard W. Warden (Virginia) of Woodside. Doris was preceded in death by her husband George H. Warden, brothers; Willard, Porter, and Sisters Ivy, Barbara and Lois. In addition to her children, she had six grandchildren (Jamin Pimpo, Mandy Perez, Ron Matis, Abby Lyon, Ben Warden & Kelly Warden) and seven great-grandchildren (Tony Pimpo, Duncan Pimpo, Lexi Pimpo, Jacob Perez, Logan Perez, Reagan Matis and Hunter Lyon). Doris graduated from Balboa High School in San Francisco. Throughout her life, she was dedicated to serving others. She worked for the San Mateo County Sheriff's Department and served faithfully at Woodside Village Church as a deacon. Her example of kindness and service is carried on by her children and grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to Pathways Home Health or a charity of your choice. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at the Woodside Village Church on Sunday, February 9, 2014 at 2:00 pm. OBITUARY Barbara J. Demeter Special Events Palo Alto AAUW Authors' Luncheon Four authors (Rhys Bowen, Tracy Guzeman, Michelle Richmond and Steve Sporleder) share their stories during lunch on Saturday, Feb. 15, at this fundraiser for AAUW's Tech Trek math/science camp. Noon-3 p.m. $40 Michaels at Shoreline, 2960 N. Shoreline Blvd., Mountain View. aauw-paloalto.org Stanford University Medical Center An architectural history walking tour of the School of Medicine. Feb. 12 at 2 p.m. Free, but RSVP is required. Stanford University, main hospital entrance fountain, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford. www.lane.stanford. edu/classes-consult/laneclass.html?classid=111 On Stage January 20, 1944 - January 20, 2014 Born to Joseph Precissi and Tullia (Sattui) Precissi in Stockton, Calfornia. Educated in Stockton, California and moved to San Jose in 1970 to further her career as a legal secretary. In 1974, met her future husband Michael, a client of the law firm where she worked. Married in 1975, settling in Atherton, California. She loved to cook and entertain her many friends and family at her home. Barbara and Michael loved to travel to Europe with friends and family, visiting many countries including Italy, France, and Hungary, which were her favorites. Later in life she was blessed to spend time with her six grandchildren. She is survived by the love of her life, her husband Michael of 38 wonderful years; her son John (Megan), grandchildren Kathleen, Jack, and Mary; her daughter Angel Scaufler (Gernot), grandchildren Michael, Thomas, and Matthew. She is also survived be her sister JoAnn Bava (Vernon), nephew Joseph Katzakian (Maria), grand-nephews Caesar and Diego; nephew Peter Katzakian (Emily), grandniece Helene and grand-nephew Alex; also survived by her brother John Precissi (Annette), niece Maria and nephew John. A funeral mass was held at the Church of the Nativity on January 31, 2014. Donations in Barbara's memory may be made to the SMILE TRAIN, in memory of Barbara Demeter, PO Box 96246, Washington, DC 20090-6246. PA I D Community Events Lifetree Cafe Menlo Park hosts an hour-long conversation exploring adoption and the search for birth parents. Feb. 13, 9:15-10:15 a.m. Free Bethany Lutheran Church , 1095 Cloud Ave., Menlo Park. Call 650-854-5897. www.facebook.com/ LifetreeCafeMP Spartan Race Community Workout Menlo Swim and Sport hosts community workout modeled after Spartan Race, an obstacle race series much like Tough Mudder. Participants receive a Spartan Race T-shirt and raffle prizes include Spartan Race entries and merchandise. Feb. 16, 9-11 a.m. Free. Burgess Park, 501 Laurel St., Menlo Park. Call 650-330-2232. www. menloswim.com Home Energy Efficiency Workshop Learn about Energy Upgrade California Home, including rebates and how to make houses more energy-efficient and comfortable. Feb. 13, 6:30-8 p.m. Free; RSVP requested Portola Valley Town Center Community Hall, 765 Portola Road, Portola Valley. Call 650-851-1700 ext. 222. http:// EnergyUpgradeWorkshop.eventbrite.com Portola Valley Farmers' Market Thursdays, year-round. 2-5 p.m. Town Center, 765 Portola Road, Portola Valley. www. portolavalleyfarmersmarket.com OBITUARY 12 N The Almanac N TheAlmanacOnline.com N February 12, 2014 Stanford Savoyards presents 'The Mikado,' a comic opera originally done by Arthur Sullivan and W. S. Gilbert. Jan. 31-Feb. 15, Fridays and Saturdays. All shows at 8 p.m. except for Saturday, Feb. 15, when it's at 2 p.m. $10-20. Dinkelspiel Auditorium, 471 Lagunita Drive, Stanford. www.savoyards.stanford.edu 'L'elisir d'amore' West Bay Opera pres- Talks & Authors "Golden Gate Castaways" Bob Oaks, docent and author, talks about "Golden Gate Castaways: East Meets West In Gold Rush San Francisco," the story of 17 Japanese sailors, stranded at sea, rescued by an American ship, and taken to San Francisco in 1851. Feb. 18, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Free, $5 for nonmembers Little House Activity Center, 800 Middle Ave., Menlo Park. Call 650-326-2025, ext. 222. www.penvol.org/ littlehouse/contact.cfm 'Relocation: A Constitutional Mistake of Historic Proportions' San Mateo County History Museum hosts Foster City Councilman Steve Okamoto, who will discuss the forced removal of Japanese from the Pacific Coast during World War II. Feb. 15, 1-4 p.m. $5 for adults; $3 for students and seniors. San Mateo County History Museum, 2200 Broadway St., Redwood City. www.historysmc.org 'The Life and Inventions of Nikola Tesla' Jim Wall will discuss fact and fiction behind the life of inventor Nikola Tesla. He will demonstrate Tesla coils for the audience. Feb. 12, 7-8 p.m. Free for museum members; $10 for nonmembers. Museum of American Heritage, 351 Homer Ave., Palo Alto. www.moah.org 'What Matters to Me & Why'ans Dave Evans, who taught a course at UC Berkeley on "How to Find Your Vocation (aka: Is Your Calling Calling?)," will speak as part of "What Matters to Me and Why," a Stanford Office of Religious Life program. Feb. 12, noon-1 p.m. Free. Old Union Sanctuary , 520 Lasuen Mall , Stanford. Call 650-723-1762. www.events.stanford.edu/ events/407/40795 'Where's the Beef? Biotech Startups Disrupting the Food Chain' With recent advances in tissue engineering and plant protein research, startups and food technologists are now engineering meat and other animal products. Learn about these companies and technologies at this panel talk. Dr. Andras Forgacs, founder and CEO of Modern Meadow Inc., and Josh Tetrick, founder and CEO of Hampton Creek Foods, will speak. Feb. 18, 6-8:30 p.m. $1550. Stanford University, Location provided with ticket purchase., Stanford. www.vlab. org/article.html?aid=486 Author Barry Eisler discusses his new book, "Graveyard of Memories: A John Rain Novel." Feb. 14, 7 p.m. Free. Four Seasons Silicon Valley, 2050 University Ave., East Discover works by nine acclaimed artists in this unique exhibition, on view indoors and out throughout downtown Los Altos. Free admission! Thr o PA I D Go to AlmanacNews.com/calendar to see more calendar listings ents Donizetti's musical comedy, "L'elisir d'amore" ("The Elixir of Love"). The story is about a country bumpkin getting the girl he loves with the help of an Italian-style snake oil salesman. Feb. 14, 16, 22 and 23. Sunday performances are at 2 p.m. 8-11 p.m. $40-75. Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Call 650-424-9999. www.wbopera.org Ma rch 2 Join today: SupportLocalJournalism.org/Almanac N CAL EN DAR ugh Support The Almanac's print and online coverage of our community. Project Los Altos: SFMOMA in Silicon Valley is organized by the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art in collaboration with the City of Los Altos. The lead sponsor of this exhibition is Passerelle Investment Company. Major support is provided by SFMOMA's Collectors Forum. Generous support is provided by the Bay Area Contemporary Arts Exhibition Fund, founded by Agnes Cowles Bourne; and Brit and Dave Morin. Palo Alto. Call 650-324-4321. www.keplers. com/event/barry-eisler-1 Book club: Philip Roth's 'The Ghost Writer' Michael Chabon and Ayelet Waldman will join Tobias Wolff to discuss Roth's 1979 classic, "The Ghost Writer." The event is part of the "Another Look" book club, which focuses on short pieces that have been forgotten, neglected or overlooked. Feb. 25, 7:30 p.m. Free. Stanford Humanities Center - Levinthal Hall, 424 Santa Teresa St. , Stanford. www.anotherlook. stanford.edu/ Gary A. Haugen discusses his book, "The Locust Effect: Why the End of Poverty Requires the End of Violence." Feb. 17 at 7:30 p.m. Free. Kepler's Books, 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. Ingrid Robeyns: 'Having Too Much' Ingrid Robeyns, economist, philosopher and chair of the practical philosophy program at the Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands, will discuss the limitarian doctrine, which entails that we all have a duty not to be rich. Feb. 13, 5:30-7 p.m. Free. Tresidder Memorial Union Oak Lounge, 459 Lagunita Drive, Stanford. Call 650-736-2629. www.ethicsinsociety. stanford.edu/ Jennifer Senior discusses her book, "All Joy and No Fun: The Paradox of Modern Parenthood." The author explores the ways children reshape their parents' lives. Feb. 12 at 7:30 p.m. Free. Kepler's Books, 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. Call 650-3244321. www.keplers.com/event/parentingjennifer-senior Megan McArdle discusses her new book, "The Up Side of Down: Why Failing Well Is the Key to Success." Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m. Free. Kepler's Books, 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. Clubs/Meetings Non-Fiction Book Club Discussion of "God's Hotel: A Doctor, A Hospital and A Pilgrimage to the Heart of Medicine" by Victoria Sweet. Drop-ins are welcome. 1-2:30 p.m. Free Portola Valley Library, 765 Portola Road, Portola Valley. Call 650-851-0560. www.smcl.org Peninsula Democratic Coalition holds annual meeting and membership luncheon Feb. 22 at Los Altos Youth Center. Congressman Mike Honda is featured speaker. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free for members, $5 for otheres. 1 N. San Antonio Road, Los Altos. Call 650-941-8190. www. peninsulademocrats.com Et Alia Valentine's Day at Cheeky Monkey Toys Kids create homemade cards and crafts. Feb. 14, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Cheeky Monkey Toys, 640 Santa Cruz Ave., Menlo Park. Call 650-328-7975. www.cheekymonkeytoys.com N E W S Five apply for seat on Menlo Park school board Five residents of the Menlo Park City School District applied for appointment to the vacant seat on the school board before the Feb. 7 deadline. The school board held a special meeting on Monday, Feb. 10, to interview the candidates and to appoint one to the seat vacated last month by Laura Rich. The meeting was held after the Almanac's press time. For an update, go to AlmanacNews.com. The following people applied for the seat: ■ Carol Cunningham, an advocate of creating a Mandarin immersion program in the district. Ms. Cunningham has two preschool-age children, and says in her candidate statement that she hopes to send them to district schools. ■ Jim Eakin, who served on the board from 1996 to 2000. His two children, now adults, attended district schools. ■ Scott Hinshaw, who serves on the Menlo Park-Atherton Education Foundation board. He has three daughters in district schools. ■ Stacey Jones, who serves as co-chair of the MPCSD District Council. She has three children in district schools. ■ Caroline Lucas, who has a background in education. She has two children in district schools. The person appointed by the board will serve out Ms. Rich's term, which expires in December. Realtors offer scholarships The Silicon Valley Association of Realtors is now accepting applications for its scholarship program. The program is open to 2014 graduating seniors from 18 public high schools, including Menlo- Atherton and Woodside. Graduating seniors may obtain applications at their schools. The complete application must be returned to the high school's principal or scholarship counselor by March 10. OPEN SATURDAY AND SUNDAY TOWN OF WOODSIDE 2955 WOODSIDE ROAD WOODSIDE, CA 94062 PLANNING COMMISSION February 19, 2014 7:30 PM PUBLIC HEARING 3. Nick and Ling Triantos 351 La Questa Way GRAD2014-0001 Planner: Jackie C. Young, Planning Director Review and approval, conditional approval, or denial of a proposal to demolish an existing residence, swimming pool, and tennis court; and construct a new residence, guest house, detached garage, swimming pool, and cabana. The project includes consideration of a Grading Exception pursuant to WMC Section 151.22.B, for grading in excess of 1,500 cubic yards. 4. Leonard B. DeSomma 389 Moore Road LDIV2012-0001 & CEQA2012-0004 Planner: Sage S. Schaan, Senior Planner Review and approval, conditional approval, or denial of a Tentative Map for a 3-lot land division of a 21.71 acre parcel. The Planning Commission shall consider adoption of an associated Mitigated Negative Declaration pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act. All application materials are available for public review at the Woodside Planning and Building Counter, Woodside Town Hall, weekdays from 8:00 – 10:00 AM and 1:00 – 3:00 PM, or by appointment. For more information, contact the Woodside Planning and Building Department at (650) 851-6790. 934 Rose Avenue, Menlo Park Heart Throb! Features include: Two bedrooms, 1 bath Entrance alcove Spacious living room with corner stone fireplace and vaulted ceilings includes split door to patio Sunny kitchen with breakfast area includes door to deck Oversized one car detached garage with washer/dryer hookups (Any questions re: future additions/new construction should be addressed with the City of Menlo Park Planning Department.) Listed at $1,395,000 Maya and Jason Sewald Broker & Sale Associate International President's Premier Top %1 650.346.1228 (Maya's Cell) | 650.307.8060 ( Jason's Cell) firstname.lastname@example.com | firstname.lastname@example.com Cal Bre#: 00993290 | 01738384 February 12, 2014 N TheAlmanacOnline.com N The Almanac N 13 N E W S N POLICE CALLS This information is from the Menlo Park Police Department and the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office. Under the law, people charged with offenses are considered innocent unless convicted. The dates police received the report are shown. PORTOLA VALLEY Identity theft report: Someone opened an unauthorized credit card account in the name of a resident of the 700 block of Alpine Road and made more than $17,000 in charges in the Sacramento area. The victim will not incur the losses. Jan. 21. Auto burglary report: A vehicle parked at Alpine Road and Willowbrook Drive was found with a smashed window and missing a ThinkPad laptop computer and carrying bag, gift cards and business paperwork for a total estimated loss of $2,150. Jan. 26. WOODSIDE Auto burglary report A purse, a wallet and an Apple iPad are missing from a vehicle parked on the shoulder of Canada Road about a half-mile north of the Jefferson Avenue intersection. The window was smashed. Before reporting the $1,300 loss, the victim canceled the stolen checks and credit cards. Jan. 26. MENLO PARK Residential burglary reports: â– Four televisions, three DVD players, a watch and silverware were taken from a home on Sevier Avenue, a $5,600 loss. Jan. 28. â– Someone kicked a hole in the front door of a home on McKendry Drive while the residents were away and stole jewelry and a purse. Estimated loss: $2,906. Jan. 29. â– A locked bike was taken from a carport on Coleman Place. Estimated value: $120. Jan. 29. â– A control box for an automatic gate was damaged and the padlock on the box forcibly removed at a home on Del Norte Avenue. Jan. 27. â– A home on Ringwood Avenue was found with a smashed rear window but no evidence of anything taken. Feb. 1. Commercial burglary reports: â– A security guard interrupted two would-be burglars who had smashed a window to force their way into the offices of August Capital at 2480 Sand Hill Road. The suspects had allegedly taken two desktop computers out of the office, but in fleeing the scene had discarded them nearby, where they were recovered. Feb. 1. â– Police arrested and booked into jail a Menlo Park man on suspicion of stealing a $39 bottle of an alcoholic beverage from Draeger's Supermarket at 1010 University Drive. Jan. 30. Theft reports: â– Someone entered the law offices of Latham & Watkins LLP at 140 Scott Drive and stole packages containing two clutch purses, a loss estimated at $1,359. It's not known how the thief entered the building. Jan. 24. â– A clerk interrupted two shoppers on their way out of the Safeway supermarket with a cart full of "several thousand dollars worthâ€? of alcoholic beverages and meat and redirected them toward a checkout stand. At that point, one of the shoppers left the store, while the other allowed the clerk to unload the cart then said he had changed his mind and didn't want the items and left the store. Feb. 9. â– Someone stole an unattended purse from a house on Cotton Street. The $1,252 loss included a wallet, a cell phone and credit cards. Feb. 2. â– A parking permit sticker for the Menlo Park parking plaza was removed from a vehicle parked at Doyle Street and Menlo Avenue. Estimated value: $592. Jan. 28. â– Two packages containing clothing and household goods with a reported value of $486 were taken from the porch of a home on White Oak Drive. Feb. 2. â– A unlocked $375 bicycle was taken in the 500 block of Glenwood Avenue. Jan. 27. â– Police arrested, cited and subsequently released a Menlo Park man allegedly caught in the act of stealing $122 worth of food and alcoholic beverages from Draeger's Supermarket at 1010 University Drive. Jan. 24. â– Police arrested and booked into jail a Menlo Park woman on suspicion of shoplifting $50 in food from Draeger's Supermarket at 1010 University Drive. The food was recovered. Jan. 24. â– She fled before the police arrived, but a woman allegedly did try to obtain a $52 refund by using a fraudulent receipt to return stolen merchandise to the Safeway supermarket on Sharon Park Drive. She left behind the merchandise and the receipt. Jan. 27. â– Police arrested a Menlo Park woman after she stole a wallet left unattended at a cash register at Willow Road and Hamilton Avenue, then attempted to use a credit card from the stolen wallet. Feb. 1. Today's local news & hot picks 14 N The Almanac N TheAlmanacOnline.com N February 12, 2014 Fresh news delivered daily Sign up today at AlmanacNews.com Serving Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley, and Woodside for 47 years. Viewpoint IDEAS, THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ABOUT LOCAL ISSUES FROM PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY. EDITED BY TOM GIBBONEY EDITOR & PUBLISHER Tom Gibboney (223-6507) NEWSROOM Managing Editor Richard Hine (223-6525) News Editor Renee Batti (223-6582) Lifestyles Editor Jane Knoerle (223-6531) Staff Writers Dave Boyce (223-6527), Sandy Brundage (223-6529) Contributors Marjorie Mader, Barbara Wood, Kate Daly Special Sections Editor Carol Blitzer Photographer Michelle Le (223-6530) DESIGN & PRODUCTION Design Director Shannon Corey (223-6560) Assistant Design Director Lili Cao Designers Linda Atilano, Rosanna Leung, Paul Llewellyn, Kameron Sawyer ADVERTISING Vice President Sales and Marketing Tom Zahiralis (223-6570) Display Advertising Sales Wendy Suzuki (223-6569) Real Estate Manager Neal Fine (223-6583) Real Estate & Advertising Coordinator Diane Martin (223-6584) Legal Advertising Alicia Santillan (223-6578) Published every Wednesday at 3525 Alameda De Las Pulgas, Menlo Park, CA 94025 Newsroom: (650) 223-6525 Newsroom Fax: (650) 223-7525 Advertising: (650) 854-2626 Advertising Fax: (650) 223-7570 Email news and photos with captions to: firstname.lastname@example.com Email letters to: firstname.lastname@example.com The Almanac, established in October 1965, is delivered each week to residents of Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley and Woodside and adjacent unincorporated areas of southern San Mateo County. The Almanac is qualified by decree of the Superior Court of San Mateo County to publish public notices of a governmental and legal nature, as stated in Decree No. 147530, issued December 21, 1969. ©2014 by Embarcadero Media Company. All rights reserved. Subscriptions are $60 for one year and $100 for two years. ■ WHAT'S YOUR VIEW? All views must include a home address and contact phone number. Published letters will also appear on the web site, www.TheAlmanacOnline.com, and occasionally on the Town Square forum. Town Square forum Post your views on the Town Square forum at www.TheAlmanacOnline. com Email your views to: firstname.lastname@example.com and note this it is a letter to the editor in the subject line. Mail or deliver to: Editor at the Almanac, 3525 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park, CA 94025. Call the Viewpoint desk at 223-6507. Safety in jeopardy during school rush hours T he Menlo Park City School District is pushing forward in impossible for cars heading east on Encinal to enter Middlefield a search for suggestions from town officials and parents to Road. Given the longtime difficulty of this intersection, it may be help resolve the heavy traffic congestion that clogs roadways time for Atherton to once again consider installing a stop light at around its schools. The worst of the problems is around Encinal this busy intersection. The issue is very complex, as town planners School at Encinal Avenue and Middlefield Road, where every morn- would have to make sure that a stoplight would not back up traffic ing and afternoon there are long queues of traffic that can back up around the corner of Marsh Road. on Middlefield as far as Marsh Road. Another way to ease school traffic is to provide school bus service The K-5 school is one of four in the district that is experiencing to some neighborhoods, which would immediately take the pressure major enrollment growth, and consequently, increasing numbers of off parents who are concerned about their students' safety walking parents who are driving their children to and from the campus. or biking to school. Such a solution would be costly, but it would Over the last few weeks, school administrators almost immediately reduce school traffic to a have held two public meetings, reaching out to manageable amount. The district currently has EDI TORI AL parents, and to staff of the Menlo Park transporone bus, serving Laurel School students. The opinion of The Almanac tation department, the Atherton and Menlo Park Officers from the Atherton Police Departpolice departments, and the county,GUEST to brainment have been on the job, according to Chief Ed storm what can be done. Flint, who says officers are patrolling around the OPINION During the meeting focusing on Encinal and Laurel school traf- schools (Encinal and Laurel) every day, sometimes issuing citations fic, parents recounted their experiences navigating the narrow but often just giving out warnings. The chief notes that the soluroad serving Encinal as it becomes gridlocked during the morning tion will have to include what he calls the three E's, "enforcement, drop-off and afternoon pick-up, a dangerous situation for children education and engineering." All three "need to be in play" to deal who are walking or biking to school. They shared stories about the with this issue, he said. challenges of commuting and suggested ways to make it better and So far, the Atherton department has not seen it necessary to station improve safety. a police officer on Encinal to direct traffic to and from at the school's The nucleus of the problem at Encinal is with eastbound parents entrance. If the traffic crunch does not ease up, it may be worthwhile trying to turn left into the school parking lots from Encinal Avenue. to have a professional directing traffic instead of a crossing guard. And even though crossing guards are available to help out, there But overall, the school district is doing the right thing to bring in have been reports of drivers losing their tempers and speeding the experts to try to improve the situation. Ahmad Sheikholeslami, around long lines of vehicles, sometimes driving on the shoulder the district's facilities and operations director, told the Almanac to get by. after the Encinal meeting that he believes safely getting to and from Another big issue that impacts Encinal is that southbound cars school will improve, but it will take time. back up on Middlefield Road as they attempt to reach Menlo Park "There's no one answer. It's about finding small solutions to add from the Bayshore Freeway. This wall of traffic can make it nearly up to solve the bigger problem." L ET TERS Our readers write Logo that was free costs Menlo Park $48,000 Editor: Our venerable Menlo Park oak tree logo — the same one that we see on signs, stationary, vehicles, and buildings around town, is alive and well once again. Even if our city staff tried to kill it. It is a solid, bold design and will last decades. Gary Williams and Bill Neylan (Wank, Williams, Neylan and Olian) loved this community and gave Menlo Park a great logo — pro bono. It didn't cost the citizens a penny. So when I read that Menlo Park has already spent $48,000 on a style guide after an alternate logo design was authorized and paid for and then rejected by the council, it is apparent to many who live here, including myself, that someone or something went amiss. If the existing logo needed updated typography and a guide so staff would know how to apply the logo, then this simple project could have been assigned to a local graphic designer for 15 N The Almanac N TheAlmanacOnline.com N February 12, 2014 Woodside History Committee Our Regional Heritage The Pioneer Hotel and Saloon in Woodside featuring live music and dancing is still operating at the corner of Woodside and Whiskey Hill roads. Aldo Comonoli bought the Pioneer in 1941 from Harmon Wilson, who had purchased it from Portola Valley resident Walter Jelich. Also's wife, Bodie Comonoli, renovated the structure in 1958, transforming it into the elegant dinner house and cocktail lounge shown above. William and Lee Ann Gilbert are the current owners of the Pioneer. two day's work. Nearly $50,000 is a lot of money to waste on anything so when government tries to become involved in market- ing or promotion, then stop the presses. An experienced marketing expert who has the city at heart and remains neutral can avoid another $48,000 lesson. City Council, an apology to the citizens is now your call. Addison Olian Lee Drive, Menlo Park February 12, 2014 N TheAlmanacOnline.com N The Almanac N 15 !" ! # ! 4) 2 32332333 *5)2 62332333 #12 2332333 $ % & ! "#$% &% &'( ") *%+, "- . ( / * ")0 % % 16 N The Almanac N TheAlmanacOnline.com N February 12, 2014 February 12, 2014 N TheAlmanacOnline.com N The Almanac N 16