Paul Powers - The Spectrum Magazine
Transcription
Paul Powers - The Spectrum Magazine
“No” Is Just A Springboard For A New Approach Paul Powers Becoming A Part Of Our Community Also in this issue: Family Law Facilitator’s Office: Selfless Dedication, Public Service And Caring About People Mayor’s Role in City Hall, Religion and Handicapped Parking in “As I Was Saying…” Sequoia Award Winners Announced and to Be Honored A ShAred ViSion for SAltworkS DMB’s coMMitMents to ReDwooD city anD its ResiDents A shared vision has emerged to create a balanced plan for DMB Redwood City Saltworks, and we’re making great strides towards achieving this common goal. Most recently, we pledged to the community a series of commitments that will ensure Saltworks will be a good neighbor to Redwood City, and will reflect the aspirations of Redwood City residents. Some of these commitments are: UÊÊ,iÃiÀÛiÊ>ÌÊi>ÃÌÊxäÊ«iÀViÌÊvÊÌ iÊ>`Ê>ÃÊÀiÃÌÀi`ÊÜiÌ>`ÃÊ >LÌ>ÌÊ>`Ê«iÊë>ViÊ>ÌÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊÊ Redwood City Saltworks ÊÊÊÊVÃÌÊÌÊÌ>Ý«>ÞiÀà UÊÊÃÌ>Là Ê>ÞvÀÌÊ««ÀÌÕÌiÃÊiÊ>µÕ>ÌVÊViÌiÀÃÊ>`Ê>ÞÃ`iÊV>viÃ]Ê>`ÊViVÌÊÌ iÊ}>«ÊÊ ÊÊÊÊÊÌ iÊ->ÊÀ>VÃVÊ>ÞÊ/À>Ê UÊÊ*ÀÛ`iÊLiÜÊ>ÀiÌÀ>ÌiÊ ÕÃ}ÊÊ>ÌÊi>ÃÌÊ£xÊ«iÀViÌÊvÊ->ÌÜÀýÊvÕÌÕÀiÊÀiÃ`iVià UÊÊ ÌÊÌÊ>ÊÃ>ÀÌÊ}ÀÜÌ ÊÌÀ>ÃÌÀiÌi`ÊVÕÌÞÊÌ >ÌÊiLÀ>ViÃÊÀiiÜ>LiÊiiÀ}Þ]ÊÊ ÊÊÊÊÜ>ÌiÀÊVÃiÀÛ>ÌÊ>`ÊÛ>ÌÛiÊ}ÀiiLÕ`}Ê«À>VÌVià We will continue to work through these and other key planning elements with the Redwood City community as we move towards defining a bright and better future for Saltworks. www.RCSaltworks.com Ê The Spectrum.FEB.08 Steve Penna As we exit February and enter the month of March, we want to welcome you to another edition of The Spectrum Magazine. This month we have our usual mix of community profiles and good news for you. Anne Callery Our cover story this month is on developer Paul Powers. After facing a serious defeat when the Marina Shores (Measure M) project was rejected by voters, he picked himself and his company back up and recently had a similar project, Peninsula Park, approved. We introduce you to a man who never gives up in his desire to provide quality, community-oriented housing and business projects. Owner and Publisher penna@spectrummagazine.net Copy Editor writers@spectrummagazine.net Judy Buchan Contributing Writer writers@spectrummagazine.net Valerie Harris Contributing Writer writers@spectrummagazine.net We also have a great story on a relatively new program that is helping so many in our community. The San Mateo County Superior Court’s family law self-help center provides free services to help people who do not have private attorneys. With 80 percent of family law litigants statewide being selfrepresented, the need for assistance has never been greater. You will see how Lauren Zorfas and her professional staff are helping so many in our community. Michael Erler Publisher Steve Penna brings forth various issues this month in his column, “As I Was Saying…,” including the mayor’s role at City Hall, religion, sightings around town and handicapped parking. As usual, he is candid and is trying to provoke conversation around town. James Massey We also have cultural events, news briefs, senior activities, financial and handyman advice and our new monthly features: My Favorite Public Servant, Redwood City Through the Years, and information from the Redwood City School District. Tell us what you think by writing or e-mailing us. Contributing Writer writers@spectrummagazine.net Graphic Designer James R. Kaspar Cover/Cover Story Photography Contact Information: Phone 650-368-2434 Email addresses listed above www.spectrummagazine.net Table of Contents Inside The Spectrum – 4 My Favorite Public Servant – 5 RCSD Corner – 5 “As I Was Saying...” – 6 Re-election Bid – 9 Once again, we would like to thank our loyal advertisers for supporting our publication, and we encourage you to support them by patronizing their businesses when you are out shopping, dining or enjoying yourself with friends and family. Many of them have special offers for you, so please take the time to look over their ads this month and use their coupons and discounts. The Spectrum is the most-read publication in Redwood City, and we are thankful to be able to bring you community information each month. Keep reading! Family Law – 10 Sequoia Awards – 12 Cultural Events – 14 Community Interest – 15 Great Powers, Great Humility – 18 Nonprofits in Action – 21 News Briefs – 23 Shop Redwood City – 31 Finance: Questions Near Retirement – 32 Handyman Hints – 33 Senior Activities – 33 A Minute With Lourdes Carini – 34 .TheSpectrum.FEB.08 Inside The Spectrum: Cover Story Photo Shoot Spectrum publisher Steve Penna called cover subject Paul Powers’ office and spoke with his assistant, Lorraine Redmond, to schedule this month’s photo shoot for Wednesday, Feb. 13, at 2 p.m. at the Pauls Corporation headquarters on Bair Island Road. On the day of the shoot, cover story photographer James Kaspar arrived shortly after Penna and joined him in the main conference room of the offices. After finishing up some business, Powers joined the two and all were led by Redmond to a room where a model of the Peninsula Park project was on display. The shoot began there. They continued to shoot inside and then proceeded to the outdoor patio section of the Diving Pelican Cafe, which is adjacent to the Pauls offices and is where the cover photo was shot. If you have not been there to eat yet, you should make the effort. It is a peaceful and serene place, and the view provided a perfect backdrop for our subject because some of the land in the background will be part of the development. The entire shoot took about an hour, and the mood was very friendly and lighthearted. Penna and Powers have known each other for a few years and, although not close friends, they have always respected each other. They run in some of the same social circles and therefore see each other often and enjoy each other’s company, as they did on this occasion. Powers is obviously a developer who has seized an opportunity for profit in Redwood City. But during that process, he has become a part of our community, establishing long-lasting friendships, supporting nonprofit groups and organizations and participating in community activities such as clean-up days and fundraisers. The Spectrum is proud to feature a community member like Powers, who has worked within the boundaries of “the system” in his desire to improve our community and provide high-quality housing and business opportunities for all. We should all be excited about what he is bringing to our community! Donate Your Vehicle 650-363-2423 Proceeds support Kainos Home & Training Center Providing quality residential, vocational and support services to developmentally disabled adults, enabling them to become active, contributing members of the community. Maximum Tax Deductions – We handle paperwork OPES•n.(ōɑɑpes)/latinforwealth OPES•n.(ōɑɑpes)/latinforwealth www.SpectrumMagazine.net My Favorite Public Servant Malcolm Smith, Public Communications Manager We were honored to be the first to submit information about our favorite public servant for The Spectrum. Without a word exchanged between us, we looked at each other and said the same name: Malcolm Smith. While it was former City Manager Ed Everett who sought to unite all of Redwood City through the spirit of community building, it is Smith who truly brings us together as individuals within our community. His is the face, the voice and the e-mail that keeps us updated on events and opportunities within our city. As Redwood City’s public communications manager, Smith not only drafts the press releases for the city, but he sends those emails — the ones that get us in trouble and keep us busy — telling us about events at the library, recycling efforts, opportunities to serve on Redwood City’s boards and commissions and all of the wonderful programs offered by the city. We first met Smith when we enrolled in the city’s Community Builders program, a several-month-long program that brings internationally known speakers and authors to Redwood City to discuss community, citizenship and involvement. The original notice of the series made some mention of there being cake served at the Community Builders sessions, and it became a running joke between ourselves and Smith because we arrived each night to find that there was no cake. During this back and forth about cake, we got to know Smith and his sense of humor. This running joke about cake continued as we completed Community Builders and eventually enrolled in the city’s By Alex and Cherlene Wright Special to The Spectrum PACT (Partnership Academy for Community Teamwork) program, where again we were promised cake. That Smith was there each night to share the joke and encourage our civic involvement is even more special given that he doesn’t live in Redwood City himself and was leaving his family each night to help build community spirit in Redwood City. In addition to Smith, Redwood City’s city manager’s office is filled with exceptional people and we know Smith would be upset if we didn’t mention that. Smith is quick to give credit to his co-workers, city leadership, the citizens of Redwood City and anyone he is working with on a project or event. His humor and his dedication to Redwood City are outstanding and we are honored to recognize him as our favorite public servant.If you happen to see Smith, be sure to ask him about his band (beneath that professional, wellpressed exterior beats the heart of a rocker). And, by the way, always read the fine print — the cake doesn’t come until graduation. Editor’s note: This is the first in a monthly series featuring a favorite Redwood City public servant. Do you want to recognize a police officer, firefighter or any city/county employee who has gone far and beyond his or her job responsibilities to assist you or who is making a difference in our community? Let us know by sending 500 words or less to The Spectrum Magazine, P.O. Box 862, Redwood City, CA 94064 or e-mail writers@ spectrummagazine.net. RCSD Corner News From the Redwood City School District Project-Based Learning Program to Be Offered at Roosevelt School An audience full of Roosevelt School parents and staff broke into applause when the Redwood City School District board of trustees voted at its Feb. 6 board meeting to approve a new project-based learning program at Roosevelt School. The school board, parents, staff and administrators were in a celebratory mood as they finalized more than a year of collaborative work toward revitalizing Roosevelt School. During the last year and a half, district administrators worked closely with Roosevelt Principal Sonya Dineen, Roosevelt staff, Roosevelt parents and neighbors, and the wider community to brainstorm ideas for a new program offering at Roosevelt. The goal was to develop a program that would build on the academic gains already underway at Roosevelt and expand the district’s “Schools of Choice” offerings. Many ideas were considered along the way, but the strongest idea to bubble up was project-based learning, an educational approach that organizes curriculum, instruction and assessment around carefully crafted “problems.” Students often work in groups of four to six to tackle solutions to a problem. Research shows significant improvement in motivation, critical thinking skills, self-esteem and standardized test scores for students involved in project-based learning. North Star Academy and John Gill are two schools in the Redwood City School District already using project-based learning. “We made it a priority to engage the community and listen to their feedback,” said Superintendent Jan Christensen. “It has been a very satisfying process, as administrators, staff, parents and Roosevelt neighbors worked together to identify a program that would meet the academic needs of existing Roosevelt students, and attract new families to the campus. We are delighted that project-based learning was embraced with enthusiasm by everyone involved in the process.” Principal Dineen explained that project-based learning, also referred to as problem-based learning, encourages students to gather and apply knowledge from multiple disciplines in a quest for solutions. The process is guided by teachers who act as cognitive coaches, teaching students critical thinking, problem solving and collaborative skills as they identify problems, formulate hypotheses, ask significant questions, conduct data searches, utilize powerful thinking and formulate solutions to the problem. “One of my favorite aspects of project-based learning is the way it motivates students,” said Dineen. “As I have visited other schools using project-based learning, I’ve seen students get so engrossed in working on a hands-on project that they may forget that they are reinforcing their skills in their grade-level standards, such as computation and writing, because they are so focused on working towards an answer about the solar system or California missions or ancient Egypt! It’s fun to watch them grapple with a problem and work collaboratively toward a solution.” Dineen added that project-based learning fits well with the district’s strong commitment to high achievement for all students. Students often develop a greater understanding of material, and demonstrate it with an ability to ask more complex questions and show more insight into a subject. Research shows that standardized test scores often rise, as well. A report by the New American Schools Development Corporation shows that nine of 10 schools implementing project-based learning demonstrated significant improvement in standardized test scores. More detailed information about project-based learning can be found on the following Web sites: www.projectapproach.org and www.edutopia.org. Families interested in enrolling their children in the new project-based learning program at Roosevelt should fill out an application form, available in the Roosevelt office or at the District Office, by April 30. Spaces will be limited to one class per grade level for the first year. The program will be open to all students in the district, with priority given to current Roosevelt students, children who live within the Roosevelt boundary and siblings of current Roosevelt students. Roosevelt will hold several open houses to introduce the program to parents: 9–10 a.m. and 7–8 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 20, and 9–11 a.m. on Saturday, March 1. All interested parents are welcome to attend. For more information about the project-based learning program or enrollment in the program, please contact Principal Sonya Dineen at 369-5597 or sdineen@ rcsd.k12.ca.us. Editor’s note: This is the first installment of a new monthly feature from the Redwood City School District. .TheSpectrum.FEB.08 AS I WAS SAYING Publisher Steve Penna For many years, I have heard the usual rumblings around political circles, asking “Who is really running our city?” To some, it has been assumed that the city manager is in total control and that City Council members are just there to approve what is dictated, a rubber stamp, if you will. I don’t agree totally with that observation, but there is some merit to it. Very seldom does the council reject staff recommendations, and they constantly praise them for their work and efforts, even when it is only to be expected from them. When one looks at city government and the structure of ours, the city manager is in a full-time position — the CEO of the community, if you will — and he sets policy, standards, goals, etc. Our council members, in contrast, are elected by the people and, although not paid as such, do put in full-time hours even though most hold regular full- time jobs already. Our council members are the city manager’s direct boss, hiring that person and evaluating and reviewing on a regular basis. Thus they have the control to dictate to that person how the city is to be run — so it is really a team effort, if you want to think optimistically. The reason I am writing about this is because for the first time that I can remember, current Mayor Rosanne Foust and her council colleagues have the opportunity to really lead without question. Since Ed Everett’s departure in December, interim City Manager Peter Ingram has been fulfilling the duties of the office very well. By all appearances, he has no set agenda or desire to change policies, and is taking direction from Foust and crew. He is doing what a person in an interim position should do — hold down the fort, keep control and assist everyone in doing their jobs effectively and efficiently. So if there was ever an opportunity for a council to show their strength and control to our community, it is now. I am looking to see how the council addresses the Cargill salt property zoning issue, the housing project by Cañada College, zoning for housing in the downtown area, visitors who are disgruntled over the parking meters (more on that later), the port structure, recycled water, the renovation of the Veterans Memorial Senior Center and what their priorities will be. Once a city manager is chosen — or if they give Ingram enough time to get comfortable and he just stays, as they hope he will — the council will have to adapt to that person’s vision as well as the way staff is driven. It can be positive or it can be less, but watching the process and seeing how much is accomplished during the next year will be interesting. … Spotted here and there: Carlos Bolanos and Memo Morantes at Vino Santo Bistro. Paula Uccelli, Dani ... Gasparini, Jack Castle, Frank Bartaldo, JoAnn Kemist, Nathalia Kelsey at Siciliano. Don Horsley and Alpio Barbara at City Pub. Keith and Nina Kadera, Linda Moore, Jim Hartnett and Diane Howard at the new Red Lantern restaurant. Judge Susan Etezadi at New Kapadokia. Barbara Pierce at Angelica’s. Supervisor Rose Jacobs Gibson, Mayor Rosanne Foust, Janet Borgens, Diane Howard, Barbara Pierce and Nancy Radcliffe at LaTartine. … Former mayors celebrating birthdays — Bill Rhodes is turning 90 and Jack Greenalch is turning 70. Congratulations and best wishes to both of them. … Congratulations to my nephew Nick, who just graduated with his M.S. in materials science and engineering from USC after achieving a B.S. in materials science and engineering at UCLA. Nick is a graduate of Menlo-Atherton High School. During the celebration honoring him, the two schools were facing off on the basketball court. UCLA won. … Since my surgery last June, I have been researching different methods of self-improvement. I guess I want to live under the philosophy of “I searched my whole life and all I did was open up my eyes,” and I guess I am trying to do just that — open up my eyes and look outside of my personal box. So I have determined that I want to change and I need to change. And how can I change? I feel I need, among other things, to be more compassionate to others and to myself; I need to be more respectful of my body and be more aware of what I put in it and why; I need to connect spiritually to something that will fulfill my desire to feel inclusive and to allow myself to feel good about myself so I can pass that on to others. (continues on page 33) a p r. c o m Your Redwood City Realtor Vicky Costantini 650.430.8425 vcostantini@apr.com www.vickycostantini.com Alain Pinel Realtors is dedicated to excellence and an integral part of that dedication is the collaboration with high caliber professionals. Vicky certainly fits that profile. W O O D S I D E | 2 9 3 0 Wo o d s i d e R o a d 650.529.1111 Advertise with The Spectrum 650.368.2434 Jacobs Gibson Announces Re-election Bid Two-term county Supervisor Rose Jacobs Gibson, whose district includes parts of Redwood City, announced she is running for re-election — one of three incumbents who are so far facing no opposition to retain their seats. The terms of Supervisors Adrienne Tissier and Mark Church are also coming to an end. Both are running for re-election and Church held a fundraiser last fall, cementing his plans to continue representing District 1. Tissier should file her papers soon, said legislative aide Bill Chiang. No potential opponents have yet filed paperwork to run against the three, although the name of Menlo Park Council Member Kelly Fergusson has been bandied about in some circles as a potential contender for Jacobs Gibson’s positions. Jacobs Gibson, 60, was appointed to the Board of Supervisors in 1999 to replace Ruben Barrales as the representative of East Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Redwood City and the unincorporated areas of North Fair Oaks and Oak Knoll. Voters re-elected her without opposition to a second four-year term in March 2004. In 2003, she made history with her first turn at the gavel as the board’s first black president. The second time also broke new ground when Tissier was named vice president, putting two women holding court together on the board’s two top slots. During her time on the board, Jacobs Gibson has worked on countywide problems like affordable housing and health care as well as more district-specific needs like schooling. Before joining the Board of Supervisors, she served on the East Palo Alto City Council from 1992 to 1999, including stints as mayor in 1995 and 1996. Jacobs Gibson also counts on her resume initiating Shared Vision 2010, the county’s long-term strategic planning process, establishing Community Service Learning for at-risk youth and sharing county government with residents through her “Who we are and what we do” component of board meetings while president. In 1999, the 21st state Assembly district named Jacobs Gibson “Woman of the Year.” Top: Jacobs Gibson (center) with supporters (L to R) Don Horsley, Barbara Pierce, Memo Morantes and Ira Ruskin. Above: Jacobs Gibson with Assemblyman Ira Ruskin. AMERICAN COAST MORTGAGE since 1982 Approving Borrowers with the Top Mortgage Lenders Nationwide PURCHASE REFINANCE *1st & 2nd Mortgages *Cash-out REFI's EQUITY LOANS *Owner/Non-owner *Reverse Mortgages *Fixed or Adjustable *Interest Only Loans Complimentary Mortgage Consulting LOWER PAYMENTS PAUL SANFILIPO Serving and Assisting the Community for over 35 Years! CALL LOWER RATES 650-365-2144 961 Woodside Road, Suite D * Redwood City, CA 94061 americancoast@msn.com * Fax 650-365-3481 CA Dept. of Real Estate * Real Estate Broker #00836735 .TheSpectrum.FEB.08 Making Your Way Through the Legal Labyrinth: Family Law Facilitator’s Office Helps to Lift Burdens By Judy Buchan Contributing Writer Picture yourself standing at the entrance to the County Government Center, trying to summon enough courage to proceed to the courtroom where your lawsuit — the lawsuit that you filed on your own — will be heard. The massive building looks overwhelming, as does the thought of trying to make your way through the labyrinth of the legal system. “Is this really worth it?” you’re probably asking yourself. Had you contacted the Superior Court’s Family Law Facilitator’s Office or attended one of that office’s free legal workshops offered to the critical in family law cases is simply that “kids are on the line here.” Zorfas explained that in 1993, courts in San Mateo County and Santa Clara County decided to look at how to do something to relieve the burdens of time and money for both the litigants and the court. Pilot family law programs were put into place, which became increasingly successful and did what they were supposed to do — save everyone involved from extra time and frustration. In 1996, the Family Law Facilitation Act parties who have come from a court hearing. “We are a full-service office,” Zorfas said proudly. “Although we don’t represent clients, what we do is incredibly empowering to our litigants. They tell their own stories.” Zorfas started in the Family Law Facilitator’s Office five years ago. At that time, staff consisted of three attorneys and one deputy court clerk. The office handled all filings for domestic violence restraining orders, which proved to be a tremendous load on the staff. “We were losing our minds!” she recalled. Fortunately, a program public, that question would have been put at the top of your to-do list by Lauren Zorfas and her dedicated staff. The office of the family law facilitator provides free services to help people who do not have private attorneys. Offices are located at 400 became part of Family Code. This law stipulated that every county had to have a family law facilitator’s office. Once under the jurisdiction of the District Attorney’s office, the family law facilitator’s office is now under the aegis of the state administrative office of the courts. set up with the courts in Contra Costa County and the Legal Aid Society to handle these matters came to light and was subsequently adopted in San Mateo County. “We help anybody with a family law issue,” Zorfas said. “And there are always more people than we can see.” “Word of mouth is amazing,” Zorfas noted when talking about the number of people who make use of their services. “And it’s a doubleedged sword; we see people on a first-come, firstserved basis, and they wait three to four hours to see us at 9 a.m.” People come to the office at 7 a.m. to wait for the sign-up sheet to be posted at 8 a.m. for appointments starting at 9 a.m. In a move to provide more bilingual services, the office also added another attorney, who is bilingual, and a deputy court clerk. Before adding the bilingual attorney, 10 percent to 15 percent of those being served were Spanish speakers. Now that number has jumped to 25 percent. But the question remained: How could the office reach more people? Two years ago, Zorfas recalled, the concept of a workshop started to evolve from an idea to what became a reality in October 2007. “The introduction-to-court workshops are our newest programs, and we are very excited about them,” Zorfas said. “At each of the workshops, “They need to have a basic understanding of the process and what can be the nightmare of paperwork.” County Government Center, Second Floor, in Redwood City and at 1050 Old Mission Road in South San Francisco. The phone number for both locations is 650-363-4590. Redwood City office hours are Monday through Friday, 9–11:30 a.m., with afternoon hours of 1:30–3:30 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. The South San Francisco office is open Tuesdays 1:30–3:30 p.m. and Wednesdays 9–11 a.m. and 1:30–3:30 p.m. With 80 percent of family law litigants statewide being self-represented, as Zorfas told me, the need for assistance has never been greater. “This is a terrible burden on the litigants who don’t understand the court system, and on the court system itself,” Zorfas said. Litigants struggling to understand the system and the paperwork involved have sometimes been seen by a judge two to four times a day until they were able to “get it right.” “They need to have a basic understanding of the process and what can be the nightmare of paperwork,” she added. What’s all the more www.SpectrumMagazine.net The service is fully funded, so there is no charge to those seeking help. Federal Title IV legislation allocates funding for family law facilitators to the states. In California, AB 1058 is the legislative mechanism that disperses funding to the counties. State trial court funding and grants are also parts of the mix. The family law facilitators provide general information and referrals. They will review your paperwork and help you obtain initial orders or modifications for child custody, visitation, child or spousal support; initiate an action to establish paternity; file for dissolution (divorce), legal separation or nullity; make responses to any of the above; obtain fee waivers (if you cannot afford the court filing fees) and make income and expense declarations. The family law facilitators also calculate child and spousal support under the California state guidelines; assist in the preparation of stipulations (agreements) regarding child custody, visitation, child and spousal support; and prepare orders for “We help anybody with a family law issue.” litigants are given a plethora of information and resources about the court process. Also information on how to successfully settle your case is given.” “I Have a Case in Court, Now What?” is held on the second and fourth Monday of each month (court holidays excluded) at 1:30 p.m. in the firstfloor conference room at the San Mateo County Law Library, 710 Hamilton St. Topics covered include how the case could be settled, the case process, alternatives to a trial, costs and more. “So, You’re Thinking of Filing a Lawsuit” sessions are held on the first, third and fifth Monday of each month (court holidays excluded) at the same location. Questions answered at this workshop include “What do I need to do?”, “Do I have to file a lawsuit?”, “How much does it cost?”, “Where can I file?” and more. “What a relief!” Zorfas exclaimed when asked about the impact of the workshops. “We are able to help a larger group of people.” For information on both workshops, call 650-599-1770. Workshop attendees review a PowerPoint presentation and receive hard copies of that presentation along with a glossary of legal terms and additional resources. They also receive preand post-workshop evaluation forms. In addition, the office provides free workshops on how to file for divorce. These sessions are held in the Redwood City facilitator’s office on Tuesdays at 1:15 p.m. and Wednesdays at 8:45 a.m. Space is limited, so preregistration is necessary. Call 650-363-4590 for more information. A grant from the state allowed the office to hire another attorney, which enabled expansion beyond family law. Now assistance is also given in areas such as settlement services, probate and small claims. And a new program focusing on evictions is slated for start-up in March. “It’s usually a three-day notice, and fast-tracked,” Zorfas said. At the pretrial conference, the judge usually works toward some sort of settlement. Without assistance from the family law office, this step could take twice as long. “It’s a totally different dynamic,” she added. Zorfas believes that getting people involved early in the legal process means there’s a better chance they won’t be victimized. “There’s a 40 percent default on collection of judgments. People think that if they don’t sign anything, it will go away,” she continued. “That’s the worst thing they can do. A default judgment takes six months to set aside, and it will follow you to your grave,” she noted. She also suggested that getting men more Opposite Left: Lauren Zorfas. Middle: Two of the dedicated office staff. Right: A client getting some assistance. Below: Zorfas assisting one of the center’s many clients. involved early on in domestic and child-support cases means they are more apt to pay child support. “We provide quality service,” Zorfas said, again with a great deal of pride in her voice. “And people really thank us for the help.” Google “Lauren Zorfas” and you’ll find her and the great work of her staff in places of welldeserved prominence on the Internet. In January, Zorfas received the Bill Nagle Award from the San Mateo County Bar Association for showing “selfless dedication to the advancement of professionalism in the Bar Association.” Selfless dedication, public service, caring about people and doing all they can to help both litigants and the court system — an oxymoron? Not on your life. Let’s be grateful for these folks who work hard to ease the burdens of others. “At each of the workshops, litigants are given a plethora of information and resources about the court process.” Sequoia Awards Winners Announced The board of directors of the Sequoia Awards has announced to The Spectrum Magazine this year’s winners. The sole criterion for selection is volunteerism in the community of Redwood City. All scholarship amounts are at least $5,000. Approximately $144,500 in scholarships will be awarded this year to 27 students. This is the largest amount ever to be given for these prestigious awards. Money to fund these scholarships comes from donations around the community — from foundations and businesses as well as individuals. The awards event will be held March 6 at the Hotel Sofitel. Below is the list of students who will be honored with a Sequoia Awards scholarship this year, along with the school that each attends. Danielle Abaya, Woodside Francesca Arana, Sequoia Alyssa Arvin, St. Francis Alicia Beekman, Woodside Alejandra Colin, Sequoia Emily Friedman, Sequoia Lisa Gellerman, Woodside Jenine Giusto, Woodside Cynthia Gonzalez, Menlo-Atherton Joanna Guhit, Notre Dame Janell Harding, Sequoia John “Jack” Kastrop, Sequoia Pyar Khatri, Carlmont Alisha Klebe, Notre Dame Timothy Marymee, Junipero Serra Sandy Navarro, Sacred Heart Elaine Palacios, Sequoia Katie Plack, Carlmont Sierra Predovich, Sequoia Ming-Yu Stephens, Carlmont Nicole Tomita, Woodside Laura Tovar, Menlo-Atherton Kayla Ulrich, Woodside Beatrice Von Guggenberg, Menlo-Atherton Nicole Wickstrom, Sacred Heart Peter Wong, Carlmont Adam Zoucha, Junipero Serra Outstanding Student: Alicia Beekman of Woodside High School Alicia Beekman of Woodside High School is the grand winner of $10,000. This amazing young woman donates so much time to the Redwood City community. A senior at Woodside High School, Alicia serves as the student body treasurer. She is an energetic, enthusiastic and passionate young woman, and her passion is volunteering. Alicia volunteered to make a difference and did make a difference. She had a great time volunteering and in the process learned about herself as well as her community. Alicia started volunteering as a young girl, working with special-needs children while she was just in elementary school. She continued volunteering throughout her school career and through organizations like the Brownies and the Girl Scouts, Students Offering Support, Fantastic www.SpectrumMagazine.net Alicia Beekman of Woodside High School Sister Christina Heltsley Friends, the Octagon Club, the Ronald McDonald House, the Big Brother/Big Sister program and People to People International. Alicia says, “I cannot imagine life without volunteering. I love being active in my high school and in Redwood City because it gives me a chance to make a difference to both individual people and the community as a whole.” We cannot imagine a better representative of the Sequoia Awards than Alicia Beekman and are proud to recognize her as our Outstanding Student scholarship winner. up their sleeves, serving on nonprofit boards and at community events. In addition to providing human capital, Wells Fargo supports the local community with financial capital through donations of $14.4 million to local organizations in 2007, including to several agencies serving San Mateo County. Wells Fargo’s areas of focus include education, community development, human services efforts, arts and culture, civic programs and environmental initiatives. “Wells Fargo is honored to receive the prestigious Sequoia Award for our commitment to volunteering,” said Steve Smith, Wells Fargo executive vice president. “Our team members are committed to making a difference in the communities where we live and work.” Citizen of the Year: Sister Christina Heltsley This year’s Citizen of the Year, Sister Christina Heltsley, does so much for the community, especially for the very needy. She directs one of the most respected poverty relief programs in the region, the St. Francis Center of Redwood City. “I love the center. This is a huge gift to the people and a huge gift to me because I can see that they have great hope, especially for their kids,” she said. Her main focus is upon education and she had the brilliant idea to start the Holy Family School, which has a major impact on the lives of a small number of children from low-income, immigrant families. Business of the Year: Wells Fargo The commitment Wells Fargo gives to volunteering is truly outstanding. In 2007 alone, Wells Fargo team members volunteered more than 1,000 hours of their personal time to countless nonprofit organizations in San Mateo County. Wherever you go, you’ll see Wells Fargo team members rolling The Sequoia Awards was established in 1990 for the purpose of recognizing outstanding volunteerism in the community among students, individuals and businesses. For over a decade, the Sequoia Awards Scholarship program has awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars to outstanding high school seniors who have performed extraordinary, uncompensated community service. The Sequoia Awards fund provides opportunities to dozens of students each year and is the largest scholarship group awarded in Redwood City. To date, there have been a total of 239 scholarships awarded. Last year’s scholarships were awarded to 27 students for $120,500. Please visit the Web site at www.sequoiaawards.org for more information and tickets. Never late for the Theatre when you eat at Little India. 10 off All You Can Eat Lunch % Mon - Fri 11am - 2pm Regular $9.95 Vegetarian $7.95 All You Can Eat Dinner with your Parking Valadation! Mon - Sat 5 - 9pm Regular $12.95 Vegetarian $10.95 Little India Restaurant 917 Main St., Redwood City • Catering • In-House Parties Available • Takeout 650-361-8737 • www.littleindiacuisine.com Cultural Events San Mateo County History Museum 777 Hamilton St., Redwood City 650-299-0141 www.historysmc.org Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. $2–$4; free for children 5 and under The museum is located in the Old Courthouse with its historic dome. Collections include horse-drawn carriages, models, railroads from Caltrans and the Ocean Shore Railroad, relics from San Mateo’s past and lithographic art dating from 1875. Ongoing Exhibits The Grand Rotunda is the architectural highlight of the restored 1910 building. Its stained glass dome is reported to be the largest on the Pacific Coast in a public building. Courtroom A, restored to its 1910 appearance, features a stained-glass ceiling and is the oldest courtroom in San Mateo County. Living the California Dream is an object art theater exploring the development of the suburban lifestyle on the Peninsula. Sit down and enjoy the show. Land of Opportunity: The Immigrant Experience in San Mateo County features the cultural groups that formed the county, including the Irish, Filipino, Portuguese, Mexican, Chinese, Japanese and Italian. San Mateo County History Makers: Entrepreneurs Who Changed the World follows a timeline of innovation in business and industry with “touch-andlearn stations” about computer technology, medicine and finance. Nature’s Bounty explores how the earliest people of the Peninsula used natural resources and how those resources were utilized to help build San Francisco after the discovery of gold in 1849. Includes interactive displays for young children. Journey to Work describes how transportation transformed San Mateo County from a frontier to a suburb with “touch-and-learn stations” and historical photo opportunities. Charles Parsons Ships of the World features 24 historic model ships handcrafted by Charles Parsons of San Carlos. Based on the historic plans for the ships, each model is completely unique and intricately pieced together. San Mateo County Sports Hall of Fame honors athletes who have made significant contributions to their sport. The exhibit pays homage to John Madden, Barry Bonds and Tom Brady, among others. Politics, Crime and Law Enforcement is the theme of the Atkinson Meeting Room, including a display of the Walter Moore Law Enforcement Collection of historic badges. Changing Exhibits A Photo Tribute to Mel Lane: Champion of the California Dream (Jan. 9–June 8) Enjoy family photos and official photos of the Lane family, the history of Lane Publishing Co. and Mel Lane’s enduring influence upon the San Mateo County coastline. Outstanding African-Americans of San Mateo County (Feb. 10–Oct. 5) View artifacts, photos and memorabilia from local community members who have observed the impact of the African-American people upon this county. Behind the Gates of the Great Estates on the Peninsula (March 30–Nov. 9) Enter the world of refined Victorian mansions, elaborately carved furniture and formal dining that set the tone for gracious and elegant living, where good manners were highly valued while questionable behavior was not discussed in polite conversation … except in secret, behind the gates. Gabriel Moulin’s Photos of San Francisco Peninsula from 1910 to 1930 (March 30–Nov. 9) Be transported back to the days of elegant living by viewing photographs of the great estates in San Mateo County by Gabriel Moulin (1872-1945), California’s premier society photographer. The treasury of his photographs are the most beautiful mansions we will never see except in rare photos. It is an era that is gone with the wind. Angelica’s Bistro 863 Main St., downtown Redwood City Reservations 650-365-3226 Saturday, March 1, 7:30–10 p.m. (No door cover charge) Lisa Loosong and Greg McCann so far have composed and written over 100 songs and self-produced 3 CDs containing folk and jazz originals. They have the working experience that provides a professional entertainment package of “old school” and “straight ahead” jazz. Monday, March 3 Dinner Auction & Cabaret Night Auctioneer: Frank Bizzarro Dinner is prix fixe $20 ($25 at the door) Auction will be held to a limited number of selected items, including jewelry, art, silver, collectibles, garden ornaments and wine. Live music throughout the evening provided by Marty Atkins, who is a member of the West Coast Songwriters Association. Seating is limited! Call 650-365-3226 to reserve, fax your reservation with payment to 650-556-0800 or e-mail info@ cuschieris.com. This will be a great evening! Tuesdays, March 4, 11, 18, 25 Open Mic This is a night for those who want to get known and be recognized as a singer. Longtime singer/songwriter David Tribue (www.davidtrabue.com) is hosting the event. Just show up with your guitar and bring some friends to hear you sing and play while enjoying some great food and drink. Thursday, March 6 Mo Music Adult Cabaret music director Mona Dena has 25 years’ experience in jazz performance. She will be graduating her female students and each will performing her songs in front of all of us this evening. They are very talented and lots of fun to listen to! Friday, March 7, 7:30–10 p.m. (No door cover charge) Chris Hansen, Bay Area singer/songwriter, has been writing and performing for over half his life. He has recently been awarded Best Song in Berkeley by the West Coast Songwriters Association and is the winner of multiple other songwriting awards. A unique style of guitar and a voice unlike any other. Saturday, March 8 David Tribue, a very well-respected singer/songwriter, will give you a great selection of his original songs and familiar cover songs. He has become a favorite to a lot of people at our restaurant. Wednesday, March 12 The singer/songwriter duo of Michael Burles & Emily Zisman play about what they know: Legos, the Old West, being your own saboteur and not saying “I love you.” Expect a hearty dose of originals along with your favorite folk classics. Thursdays, March 13 and 27 Marty Atkins (www.martyatkinson.com) got a couple of record deals and spent seven years in Nashville. He started making CDs and doing a selfpromotion campaign. Marty is a great songwriter and will sing some of his favorite cover songs. Friday, March 14, 7:30–10 p.m. (No door cover charge) Greg Lamboy is a San Francisco–based singer, songwriter and guitarist who writes about matters close to the heart, to inspire others “to care, to question, to learn and to love.” Greg has also won Best Song and Best Performance awards from the West Coast Songwriters Association. Greg’s first CD, “Every Drop of the Good,” was released in 2002. (Cultural Events – continues on page 16) www.SpectrumMagazine.net Community Interest Gomez Named to Public Health Committee Cynthia Gomez, 49, of Redwood City, was named to the Public Health Advisory Committee. Gomez has served as director of the Health Equity Initiative at San Francisco State University since 2006. Prior to that, she held numerous positions at the University of California, San Francisco, including associate professor of medicine from 2003 to 2006, co-director of the Center for AIDS Prevention Studies from 2002 to 2006, assistant professor of medicine from 1997 to 2003, epidemiology specialist from 1993 to 1997 and associate epidemiology specialist from 1991 to 1993. Prior to that, Gomez was director of children’s mental health services for the Southern Jamaica Plain Health Center at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital from 1987 to 1991 and was staff psychologist from 1986 to 1987. Previously, she was a research associate for Boston University from 1984 to 1986, bilingual psychotherapist for AtlantiCare from 1982 to 1984 and community health outreach worker for Uphams Corner Health Center from 1979 to 1981. Gomez is a Democrat. LaTorra Receives Top Honor Redwood City buildings official John LaTorra was named “Building Official of the Year” for 2007 at the International Code Council chapter meeting on Feb. 6. The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. LaTorra was recognized for his work in standardizing building code amendments and permit functions so that there is consistency in all the cities and jurisdictions on the Peninsula. LaTorra is also a leader in building code development and is nationally recognized as a leading authority on construction. “The things John has done save contractors time and effort every day,” said Peninsula Builders Exchange Director Tom McGinley. “We tend to focus on the big things a building official does, which saves lives and protects people, but we also need to remember the more mundane stuff like paperwork and consistent laws from city to city that make our construction industry more efficient. Every day, life is made easier hundreds of times all over the Peninsula because of John’s efforts and concern.” Paulson Appointed as Trustee Hilary Paulson was appointed to fill the vacancy left after longtime Redwood City School District leader Patricia Wright stepped down from the board of trustees in December. Paulson will serve the remainder of Wright’s term, through 2009. Paulson is a longtime volunteer in the Redwood City School District and an active member of the Redwood City community. She currently serves as vice president of the Redwood City Education Foundation, and served on the Redwood City Planning Commission from 2000 through 2005. She was the grant writer for the Redwood City School District Playground Grant Committee in 2000, which helped obtain state grants and select the play structure systems and contractor for renovation of 19 playgrounds in the district. In 2005, Paulson ran unsuccessfully for the City Council. Paulson received a bachelor’s degree in geography from the University of California at Berkeley and attended the University of California Hastings College of Law. Paulson is married and the mother of three children, ages 14, 11 and 7. In January, the board decided to appoint a replacement rather than hold a special election. Applicants needed to apply by 4 p.m. Jan. 21 to be considered. Support Redwood City Schools The Redwood City Education Foundation’s annual Benefit for a Brighter Future is scheduled for Friday, April 25, at the Pacific Athletic Club in Redwood Shores. Organizers are excited about the program and the potential to showcase success stories in the district while reaching out to new supporters. At the event, the foundation will also present Oracle with the RCEF annual Investor Award. The Investor Award recognizes outstanding contributions of time and support for the both RCEF and the school district, and Oracle has a long history of providing substantial financial support to our schools. “Oracle has truly understood the importance of acting locally and has provided a combined total of more than $260,000 to both our district and the RCEF,” said Superintendent Jan Christensen. “With Oracle’s support we’ve been able to upgrade our technology infrastructure, while the RCEF has been able to provide the programs that take our students beyond the basics during their school day. It really is a pleasure to be able to thank them publicly for all that they have done for our students.” For more information contact Barry Schnur at 941-0898 or bschnur@ dschnur.com, or Sheila Cepero at 633-5973, or visit www.rcef.org. Sequoia Hospital Recognized for Clinical Excellence Sequoia Hospital is one of only 269 hospitals nationwide to receive the 2008 HealthGrades Distinguished Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence. Sequoia Hospital has received this distinction for five of the past six years and is in the top 5 percent for overall clinical quality for the third consecutive year. This distinction is based on an independent study released by HealthGrades, the leading health care ratings company. According to the HealthGrades study, distinguished hospitals for clinical excellence had mortality rates that were, on average, 27 percent lower than other hospitals, and major complication rates that were 5 percent lower. Each year, HealthGrades conducts the most comprehensive studies of hospital quality in America, producing ratings for every nonfederal hospital in 27 diagnoses and procedures. Hospitals that receive the Distinguished Hospital Award for Clinical Excellence are those hospitals that place among the top 5 percent nationally when all 27 ratings are aggregated into a comprehensive score. “Achieving this award year after year shows our commitment and dedication to providing award-winning care in a community hospital environment,” said Sequoia President Glenna Vaskelis. “I would like to thank our outstanding team of doctors, nurses and staff who have placed Sequoia Hospital among the top five percent nationwide for the third straight year.” The study also shows that distinguished hospitals for clinical excellence are improving at a greater rate in more procedures and diagnoses than all other hospitals, lowering risk-adjusted mortality rates over the years 2004, 2005 and 2006 by an average of 15 percent. “Distinguished hospitals for clinical excellence like Sequoia Hospital have proven that it is possible to consistently deliver top-notch medical care, and they should be recognized for their outstanding achievement,” said Samantha Collier, M.D., HealthGrades’ chief medical officer. For its study, HealthGrades analyzed almost 41 million Medicare hospitalization records that cover the latest three-year period, from 2004 to 2006. Because the hospitalization records come from the federal government, no hospital can opt in or out of HealthGrades’ rating process. The analysis is risk-adjusted to account for differences in patient populations between hospitals. HealthGrades found that distinguished hospitals for clinical excellence outperformed all other hospitals across the procedures and diagnoses studied. HealthGrades estimates that 171,424 lives could have been saved and 9,671 postoperative complications could have been avoided over the three years studied if all Medicare patients were treated at distinguished hospitals for clinical excellence. Sequoia High School Establishes a Hall of Fame To celebrate Sequoia High School’s history of more than one hundred years of academic excellence and community presence, a committee of staff, students, parents and alumni has created the Sequoia High School Hall of Fame. The purpose of the Sequoia High School Hall of Fame is to recognize alumni and staff who exemplify/demonstrate the following: leadership and peer recognition; a high level of morality/ethics/integrity; entrepreneurial (Community Interest – continues on page 16) 15.TheSpectrum.FEB.08 (Community Interest – continued from page 15) (Cultural Events – continued from page 14) talent or experience at Sequoia; positive contributions to society, Sequoia High School and/or the community; and overcoming obstacles. It is hoped that the inductees will be an inspiration for generations of the Sequoia High School community — past, present and future. The committee’s goal is to host an induction ceremony on the Sequoia campus on Oct. 4. The deadline for nomination forms has been extended. They must be postmarked by March 24. For further information and for nomination forms, please visit the school’s Web site at www.sequoiahs.org, e-mail halloffame@seq.org or send a request to Hall of Fame, c/o Principal Morgan Marchbanks, Sequoia High School, 1201 Brewster Ave., Redwood City, CA 94062. Saturday, March 15, 7:30–10 p.m., and Thursday, March 20 (No door cover charge) Marty Atkins will be singing many old Irish folk songs at our St. Patrick’s Day party. He has performed in the past with some very good Irish folk song bands. He will be a treat to listen to with a pint of Murphy’s. Dancing Teachers Needed Now! No Experience Necessary Are you looking to start a career that keeps you moving and learning? Would you like to find a place to express your creative side? Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Redwood City is looking to train outgoing, motivated people to become successful dance instructors. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Use your athletics, theater, dance, sales and customer service experience for something fun and exciting. There are full-time and part-time positions open. We are looking for five men and five women to invest in, ages 18 to 24. No dance experience is necessary, and we provide the training. Please send your resumes to amdsrwc@aol.com or call 650-216-7501. Wednesday, March 19 Jerry Logan will be doing a solo performance with his acoustic guitar. Jerry has a wonderful, enthusiastic sound that is electrifying. Friday, March 21, 7:30–10 p.m. (No door cover charge) Kincheloe Band (www.atkinsonkincheloe.com). Saturday, March 22, 7:30–10 p.m. (No door cover charge) Hailing from Orange County and Sacramento, the Kimberly Trip was formed by guitarist Jeffry Wynne Prince and drummer Bractune, self-confessed high school nerds with sci-fi obsessions. Along with vocalist Kimberlina, bassist Sierra and keyboardist/guitarist Misha, the Kimberly Trip wraps pointedly funny social observations and introspective confessions around toe-tapping, pogo-inducing rhythms. The single “Your Creepy Ex” is the highlight of the Kimberly Trip’s knife-sharp humorous narratives, an ode to stalking that wears the nerd label like a badge of honor. However, the group has a serious side as well, best exemplified by the haunting “Second to Fade” and the soaring, heartbroken anthem “Shy Girl From Orange County.” Parties Around Town The Redwood City-San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce February Networking Mixer Co-Hosted By: Spa Luxe and The Spectrum Magazine Date: Wednesday, February 20, 2008 Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm Location: 272 Redwood Shores Parkway, Redwood City In the Redwood Shores Marketplace Mixers are an excellent benefit of your Membership and a wonderful opportunity to network your business with fellow Chamber Members! CIVIL SPLIT, LLC 1000 Park Place, Suite S San Mateo, CA 94403-7113 Ph: 650.212.4845 Fax: 650.212.4844 Civil Split is a licensed company that services uncontested Divorce, Legal Separations, and Annulments. Our goal is to allow you to act on your own behalf “pro per” so you can have more time and peace of mind. We work for you. You are our employer. “My support and service will be devoted to you so that you are able to move on with your life.” -Sandy Rivers • Scope: Fill out & file documents • Serve & Process • Notarize • Inform client of all court postings & updates • Daily tracking of court calendar • Follow through petition/response until “Entry of Judgment” final • Civil Split provides all the tools to do-it-yourself; published material, documents, links, etc. California Secretary Of State File: # 200701010052 CALDA (California Legal Document Assistant) Member NALDP (National Legal Document Preparer) Member 17.TheSpectrum.FEB.08 With Great Powers Comes Great Humility Above: Powers with a model of the Peninsula Park project. Right: Powers entertaining friends with his best Elvis impersonation. By Michael Erler Special to The Spectrum Successful people come in countless shapes and colors. They can make you crane your neck up to look them in the eye or bend down to shake their diminutive hands. They can be hefty enough to require custom-made clothes or gaunt to the point of appearing malnourished. Male or female, black or white, Rhodes scholar or seventh-grade dropout, there are no set-in-stone characteristics of what it takes to make it in our modern times. Well, except for one thing. All successful people, as a rule, have extreme difficulty with understanding or accepting the meaning of the word no. To most of us, no is pretty simple and straightforward. There’s a firm finality about it. We ask the cute blonde at the bar for her phone number, she says, “No,” and we slump away, rejected. We ask our boss for a raise, he says, “No,” and we don’t press the issue, quickly rationalizing that we should be thankful just to have a job in this moribund economy. In our unenlightened world, no signifies a conclusion. It’s the period at the end of the sentence, the paragraph, the chapter, the book. It’s the officer standing behind the yellow police tape saying, “Move it along; nothing to see here,” and it’s the attorney smirking, “I rest my case” to the judge. No segues, no transitions, no counterarguments. No means no, so deal with it and move on. Paul Powers, on the other hand, hasn’t quite grasped the concept of no. Whereas to you or me the word represents the jumping-off point of the proverbial cliff, to someone like him it’s more or less a trampoline. No is just a springboard for a new approach, a different idea, a fresh proposal. No is negotiable, pliable and moldable, like PlayDoh fresh out of the yellow tube. All that people like Powers acknowledge about no is that it’s not yes. The fun part, the passion that fuels them and makes them rocket out of bed bright and early every morning like they just got shot with a BB pellet, is the challenge of changing hearts and minds, turning the negatives into affirmatives. Life would be boring and unbearable for the Paul Powerses of the world if nobody ever told them “no.” So consider Powers officially enamored with Redwood City, the town that had the chutzpah to deny him like none before. Powers, the president and CEO of The Pauls Corporation (so named after its owner and chairman, William B. Pauls), has spent the past 15 years building and developing real estate and commercial property all over the western U.S. and Canada. His company has planted its flag in Denver, Seattle, Las Vegas, St. Louis, Detroit, Kansas City, Austin, San Diego, Calgary and several locations in the province of Ontario. And Redwood City, of all places, told him to kiss off. A few local residents even went so far as to describe him as a “masochist.” All the man wanted was to cut down on your commute and save you some money at the pump. Powers has had his eye on Redwood City for years: “The mid-Peninsula area, and Redwood City in particular, suffers from a jobs/housing imbalance that is more severe than just about any other submarket area in the country. The chairman of what was then a publicly held real estate investment trust invited The Pauls Corporation to identify sites on the Peninsula which could be redeveloped as dense housing. Our vision was and is to not just solve the jobs/ housing imbalance but to concurrently reduce long commutes and vehicle miles traveled. Clearly, if a development company can solve such problems and at the same time earn a satisfactory return on its investment, this represents a positive business opportunity.” It was Mark Twain who coined the axiom “Buy land, because God isn’t making any more of it,” and thousands upon thousands have taken the advice to heart, migrating to the Bay Area over the past 30 years. It doesn’t seem conceivable that there was any unspoiled land left to build on, yet lo and behold it’s been here, right under our noses in Redwood City, the whole time. A 46-acre stretch on the bayfront area east of Highway 101 between Pete’s Harbor and the Peninsula Harbor is just lying there, waiting to be developed. There are an estimated 275,000 jobs within a seven-mile radius of this property. One would think it would be a no-brainer to set up housing here. One would think. Yet when Powers first proposed building on this site, in 2004, he was told “no” in the form of a voter referendum, shot down 54 percent to 46 percent. The “Marina Shores Village” project had obtained zoning permits to erect 17 buildings in the height range of 240 feet to 260 feet — categorically puny by skyscraper standards — but citizens objected to both the building heights and the projected density of the homes the plan called for. “Obviously, we did not initially understand how difficult it would be to obtain the entitlements,” Powers said wearily. He didn’t give up, though, crediting his fortitude to the “strong Midwestern work ethic” he learned growing up on a farm near Asbury, Iowa. He learned toughness and discipline in the U.S. Army and got his education first at the University of Iowa, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business, and then in Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government Program for Senior Executives and at American University for his graduate work in public policy. He learned the finer points of diplomacy and how to curry favors as a Republican state senator in Denver, Colo., for eight years in the Reagan-powered ’80s. Having had to work as a laborer, carpenter and construction foreman to pay for college, Powers is no stranger to adversity or hard work. If the first proposal doesn’t get approved, you just try, try and try again. Calling the ordeal “our most challenging project to date,” Powers and his partners in GlenboroughPauls LLC, a joint venture between Glenborough Realty Trust and The Pauls Corporation, developed a new, scaled-down proposal dubbed the “Peninsula Park” project. This project will encompass only 33 acres around the marina to erect 796 residential units, a 200-room hotel, 10,000 square feet of convenience retail space, a 2.8-acre community park and more than five acres of canals and waterways. In the Peninsula Park plan, one mid-rise building will be 100 feet high, two will be at 110 feet and seven will be at 120 feet, making 10 buildings in all. Ninety-two percent of the parcel area will have no buildings higher than 75 feet, and most residential units will be significantly shorter than that, with town homes and row homes estimated to be about 24 feet high and the hotel and retail shops projected at 50 feet high. This time the unit density would be at 32 units per acre, well within the 40unit-per-acre limit and the parkland standards approved by the City Council. The idea all along has been to ease traffic congestion on Highway 101 for people having to commute to work from their homes in San Mateo and farther north, Menlo Park and farther south, and lord knows where in the East Bay. It sounds like a noble enough purpose, yet GlenboroughPauls only got the go-ahead from voters they were looking for — that Holy Grail of “yes” — by promising to be responsible for the school mitigation fees, looking to be an estimated $2.66 million based on the combined square footage of residential and retail property that would be built. Approximately 137 elementary school and 502 high school students are on track to migrate to Peninsula Park early next decade. Everything with the Peninsula Park project is, at the moment, good to go. “It has taken us seven years, but the project now is fully approved with the exception of our federal government agency approvals,” Powers boasted confidently. The process certainly strained him, but with the light at the end of the tunnel well within his sight, he can afford to be publicly complimentary and diplomatic toward Redwood City, though one has a hard time imagining him doing so behind closed doors. “After more than 10 public workshops and hearings and two years of outreach conducted under the auspices of the city, this process worked very well. We are very complimentary of the city staff, Planning Commission, City Council and the hundreds of Redwood City residents who participated in this process. Obviously, the Peninsula Park project was not as controversial [as the Marina Shores Village project] because it was significantly smaller and had dramatically fewer impacts, but also [it wasn’t as hotly contested] because of a far superior city outreach approach. Although, naturally, we would have preferred the previous proposal, we understand there was not sufficient community support.” For a man accustomed to work feverishly until his goals are met, it’s somewhat surprising that those who have no reason to offer idle praise are so reverential of Powers, the man, as well as Powers, The Man. Redwood City Mayor Rosanne Foust was impressed with Powers’ positive attitude throughout the seven years and went out of her way to stress how his personal touch won her constituency over. “He actively sought engagement with the community on the project and he was patient, respectful and committed to the values that the people of Redwood City hold dear,” she said. Meanwhile, Paula Uccelli, the owner of Pete’s Harbor and the person who arguably lost out the most in the 2004 referendum, calls Powers “a man of integrity, a gentleman, a gentle man and a wonderful neighbor.” Powers, like all big-picture people, already has his eye on the next project, the next deal. He is effusive, even gushing, in his praise of the people who run this town and all of its citizens. He seems genuine and happy with the compromises made. “We were extremely fortunate in processing the Peninsula Park entitlements to have competent and professional city staff involved. Additionally, many Redwood City residents who care a great deal about the future of the community gave up countless hours of their personal time to express their views and in many cases lend their support to Peninsula Park. I believe the current City Council and Planning Commission deserve a huge thank you for their vision and execution of a downtown revitalization program. It will take time, but the improvements now in place will, in my opinion, be an anchor for many great things that will occur in the Downtown Precise Plan area.” And don’t think for a minute that Powers hasn’t noticed what’s going on in Redwood City. He knows about the movie theater. He knows about Sequoia Hospital. The outdoor concerts, the restaurants, the shops; he’s abreast of all of it. And don’t be the least bit surprised if he’ll want in on the action in the near future. “We plan to maintain our office in Redwood City for many years and are actively pursuing other development opportunities both in Redwood City and elsewhere on the Peninsula,” he said casually. Good luck telling him “no.” Parties Around Town Chamber ambassadors honored The Redwood City-San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors were named “Person of the Year” at the Chamber’s Annual Dinner and Awards Recognition Banquet Jan. 24 at the Hotel Sofitel in Redwood City. The Ambassadors serve as official greeters and representatives of the Chamber, attend groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings and assist at various Chamber events from golf tournaments to Membership mixers. The Ambassadors present to accept the Award were Co-Chief Ambassadors Keith Kadera and Leila Perreras, Jim Massey, David Amann, Grace Shem, Nori Jabba, Kelly Hooker, Dave Karow, Rick Lewis, John Nelson, Norm Gilbert and Steve Penna. Also honored was Janine McCaffery, named Redwood City-San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce “Business Woman of the Year.” Golden Apple Awards, given to Business Members who have made significant contributions to support Education in the Community, were presented to Costco Wholesale and to Nina and Keith Kadera, 1-800-DryClean. Outgoing Board chair Cheryl Angeles, SKS Management, welcomed incoming new Chair Jeff Gee, Swinerton Management & Consulting. Accepting the gavel, Gee recognized Angeles for the great job she had done and said he was honored to have the opportunity to lead the Chamber in 2008. IRT-1770-A FEB 2007 NOT PREPARING FOR RETIREMENT DOESN’T MAKE MUCH SENSE EITHER. All too often, investors take an extremely short-term approach to long-term retirement planning. But at Edward Jones, we believe the best way to prepare for retirement is to follow investment strategies that have proven themselves over time. For a free retirement review, call today. www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC David M Amann Financial Advisor . 702 Marshall Street Suite 515 Redwood City, CA 94063 650-365-3618 Nonprofits in Action Advocates for Children For as little as 10 hours a month, you could make a lasting difference in the life of an abused and neglected child. Each year, 600 to 800 San Mateo County children enter the foster care system as a result of abuse and neglect. Advocates for Children, CASA of San Mateo County, is actively seeking caring and consistent adults to mentor and speak up for the best interests of these children. Over 130 children are waiting for someone who cares. If you would like to become a volunteer advocate, or just want to learn more, please attend an orientation held in their San Mateo office. Visit their Web site (www.AdvocatesFC.org) or call 650-212-4423 for more information. City Talk Toastmasters Join the City Talk Toastmasters to develop communication and leadership skills. The club meets Wednesdays 12:30–1:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 1017 Middlefield Road. Call Manny Rosas at 650780-7468 if you would like to check out a meeting or just stop in. Visit www.toastmasters.org for more information about the Toastmasters public speaking program. CityTrees CityTrees is a nonprofit working with the Public Works Department to enhance and care for Redwood City’s urban forest. They usually plant or prune on the third Saturday of each month. Check their Web site (www. citytrees.org) for a listing of events and dates. Family Service Agency of San Mateo County Looking for a dependable source of skilled, reliable workers? Family Service Agency of San Mateo County provides employers with mature, ready-to-work, experienced workers who are 55 years and older. Employers contact the service because they appreciate the superior work ethic and the commitment to quality that mature workers possess. There are no fees for hiring candidates. Contact Barbara Clipper at 650-403-4300, ext. 4368, to place your job order. For those who are looking for work and are at least 55 years of age, Family Service Agency provides a range of services, including referrals for classroom training, vocational counseling, job referrals and on-the-job training for qualified participants. Contact Connie Tilles at 650-403-4300, ext. 4371, if you are looking for work. Friends for Youth Do you like to play video games, shoot hoops, watch baseball games or just have fun? Then you have what it takes to be a mentor! As a mentor, you can hang out with a young person like Reggie. He’s a 12year-old who loves pizza, baseball and cars. He lives with his grandmother and three sisters and would love to hang out with a guy and have fun. There are 30 boys like Reggie waiting to be matched with a mentor like you. Most of the boys wait more than a year to meet their mentors. As a mentor with Friends for Youth, you will have access to group activities like bowling, miniature golf and camping trips, plus free tickets to Giants, 49ers, Warriors and Sharks games and more. In just a few hours a week you can make a difference in the life of someone like Reggie. If you are interested in becoming a mentor, you are invited to attend a onehour information session in Redwood City. For upcoming sessions, call 650482-2871 or e-mail mentor@friendsforyouth.org. Hearing Loss Association of the Peninsula Hearing Loss Association is a volunteer, international organization of hardof-hearing people and their relatives and friends. The nonprofit, nonsectarian, educational organization is devoted to the welfare and interests of those who cannot hear well but are committed to participating in the hearing world. A day meeting is held on the first Monday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Senior Center, 1455 Madison Ave. Educational speakers and refreshments are provided. A demonstration of assistive devices is held on the first Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in the second-floor conference room at the Redwood City Public Library, 1044 Middlefield Road. Please call Marj at 650-593-6760 with any questions. Nursing Mothers Counsel Nursing Mothers Counsel, a nonprofit organization since 1955, provides free breastfeeding education and assistance by highly trained counselors (moms who breastfed for at least six months). To speak with a counselor (no fee), call 650-327-MILK (327-6455). NMC also offers free breastfeeding classes. Moms (including babies), dads, grandmas and friends are welcome. Classes are held the first Saturday of each month at Mills Hospital in San Mateo from 10 a.m. to noon. Call 650327-MILK (327-6455) to RSVP. NMC also has breast pumps and breastfeeding supplies available for purchase and rent. Call 650-364-9579. If you’d like to become a trained counselor, call 650-365-2713. Visit their Web site at www.nursingmothers.org. Optimist Club of Redwood City The Optimists invite you to become a member of Optimist International, one of the largest service organizations in the world, where “bringing out the best in kids” has been their mission for over 80 years. Whether you’re a club officer or a club member who enjoys the fellowship and friendship of others with a common greater good, Optimist International needs and wants you as a member. The Optimist Club of Redwood City meets every Tuesday at 12:15 p.m. at Bob’s Court House Coffee Shop at Middlefield and Broadway. For more information please call their president, Steve, at 650-365-8089 or their secretary, Ted Cole, at 650-366-1392. Or come join them for lunch to learn more about how you can make a difference. Peninsula Hills Women’s Club Peninsula Hills Women’s Club meets the third Wednesday of each month at the Community Activities Building, 1400 Roosevelt Ave. For more information, call 650-366-6371. Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA In addition to sheltering and finding new homes for stray and unwanted animals (100 percent placement for healthy dogs and cats since 2003!), PHS/ SPCA has vital programs for people. New in 2006 and beginning with the North Fair Oaks community, the shelter began driving its mobile spay/neuter clinic into low-income neighborhoods, offering owners free “fixes” for their pets. PHS/SPCA also provides a free animal behavior help line in English and Spanish. Call 650-340-7022, ext. 783 or 786. And domestic abuse victims who wish to leave their abusive situation but are fearful of doing so because they have pets can receive temporary sheltering for their pets through PHS/ SPCA. Call 650-340-7022, ext. 330. Peninsula Sunrise Rotary Club The Peninsula Sunrise Rotary Club was chartered in April 1988. In the years since that time, the club has met weekly at 7:30 a.m. for breakfast and to hear a speaker at the Waterfront Restaurant at Pete’s Harbor in Redwood City. The club, with 22 members, has frequently been honored as an outstanding small club by Rotary District 5150, which includes San Mateo, San Francisco and part of Marin counties. For more information or to join, call Marc Manuel at 650-306-9606. Redwood City Education Foundation The Redwood City Education Foundation is an all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing students in the Redwood City School District with a strong education that lays the foundation for future success. They raise private money to provide enrichment programs to all students in the district. Their funding is focused on academic achievement, music and art, and health and wellness. They are currently seeking new board members. Board members are responsible for attending monthly meetings, chairing board committees, participating in fundraising and outreach activities, and promoting RCEF in the community. If you are interested in the possibility of serving on the board, please contact Adam Borison at 650-363-7271 or vp@ rcef.org. For more information on RCEF, check out www.rcef.org. (Nonprofits in Action – continues on page 22) 21.TheSpectrum.FEB.08 Nonprofits in Action (continued from page 21) Redwood City Rotary Redwood City Rotary performs many service projects, provides college scholarships and donates to international relief efforts. The 50-member club meets in a spirit of good fellowship and fun each Tuesday at 12:15 at the Sequoia Club, 1695 Broadway, to hear speakers and plan community benefits, including the annual July 4 raffle that raises $80,000 for 12 local charities. For more information about joining, contact President Alpio Barbara at 650369-0351. Redwood City Sunrise Lions Club This group is small but has a growing membership. All members either live or work in our community and share a common goal of making our city a better place to live. This club is one of over 44,000 Lions Clubs in 199 nations. Chartered in 1966, the club has been vigorously active helping eyesight-impaired youth in our schools and seniors who are hearingimpaired. Join them for breakfast! The Lions meet every Wednesday at Bob’s Court House Coffee Shop, 2198 Broadway, beginning at 7:15 a.m. Call Bill Gibbons at 650-766-8105 for more details. Redwood City Women’s Club Redwood City Women’s Club meets at the clubhouse, 149 Clinton St., the first Thursday of each month September through June. Social at 11:30 a.m. and lunch at noon, followed by meeting and program. For information call Loretta at 650-368-8212 or visit the group’s Web site at rwcwc.com. Sequoia High School Alumni Association The group meets the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Sequoia District Board Room, 480 James Ave., at 7 p.m. All alumni and friends of Sequoia are welcome to attend. For more information call Nancy at 650-592-5822, visit the Web site at sequoiahsalumniassoc.org or e-mail sequoiaalumni@ earthlink.net. Sequoia Stamp Club This club was established in 1947 and invites community members to visit. The club meets at the Community Activities Building, 1400 Roosevelt Ave., every second and fourth Tuesday at 7:45 p.m. There is a program every meeting and refreshments are served. The dues are only $3 per year. Contact Hank at 650-593-7012, e-mail sequoiastampclub@yahoo.com or visit the group’s Web site at www.penpex.org. Sequoia Stamp Club sponsors a free stamp show at the same location on the first weekend in December. Soroptimist International of South Peninsula The Soroptimists invite you to become a member of Soroptmist International, the world’s largest service organization for business and professional women, where “improving the lives of women and children” has been their mission since 1921. Soroptimists work through service projects to advance human rights and the status of women locally and abroad. Soroptimist International of South Peninsula needs and wants you as a member. While helping women’s and children’s causes, you will enjoy fellowship and lasting friendships. They meet the second Thursday of every month. For more information, please call their president, Maria, at 650-366-0668, Monday– Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club Since October 1956, the Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club has been devoted to community service in Redwood City. Through the decades, the club has provided funds to help many worthy community programs and continues to add more community projects. The Key Club of Sequoia High School, sponsored by the Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club, was chartered in 1994 and has been involved in raising money and donating time and effort to many programs. The Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club meets every Wednesday morning 7:15–8:30 a.m. at the Waterfront Restaurant, 1 Uccelli Blvd. (at Pete’s Harbor). They invite you to come to their meetings and check out the club’s Web site at www.agencyinfo.org/kiwanis. www.SpectrumMagazine.net Woodside Terrace Optimist Club This is a unique club made up of senior citizens who want to stay involved. Most, but not all, come from the residence at Woodside Terrace. The club is open to all of the community and provides an opportunity for seniors to be useful. The club’s funds are raised by a card, candy and necklace sale held on the fourth Wednesday of each month in the main lobby at 485 Woodside Road, open to the public. All greeting cards are a dollar each. They sell See’s and other candy bars and hold a See’s fundraiser for holidays. One of their members makes beautiful necklaces and sells them for $10 or more if one wishes to make a larger donation to the club. The club has a tutoring project at Taft School and has contributed to school libraries, the Children’s Cancer Campaign, the Optimist Volunteers for Youth Camp near La Honda for needy children, the Optimist Jr. World Golf program, Challenge Day and many other programs for kids. Lunches/meetings are at 12:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month in the Assisted Living Dining Room at Woodside Terrace. Guests are welcome. Please call president Jack Murphy at 650-780-9891 or Millie Cole at 650-366-1392 for reservations. YES Reading This local organization is dedicated to empowering students through literacy and investing community members in underserved public schools. YES Reading recruits and trains community volunteers to provide one-on-one tutoring for elementary and middle school students reading below grade level. The organization partners with historically underresourced public schools and works closely with classroom teachers to provide curriculumbased, results-oriented intervention for low-performing readers. YES Reading operates several reading centers on the Peninsula and in the South Bay, including a site at Selby Lane School in Atherton. If you are interested in becoming a reading tutor for a child who needs your help, please call 408-945-9316 or email info@yesreading.org. Visit the YES Reading Web site at www.yesreading.org. Editor’s note: If you are connected with a nonprofit organization and want your information printed in The Spectrum, send it to writers@ spectrummagazine.net or The Spectrum Magazine, P.O. Box 862, Redwood City, CA 94064. Let our community know your contributions and maybe they will want to join you. Local Foundations Offer to Match Donations to Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula Two local foundations are seeking to help increase financial support for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula, which serves youth in the North Fair Oaks area of Redwood City. The Morgan Family Foundation and the Sobrato Family Foundation have each awarded the club sizeable grants totaling over $300,000. “The grants have been made as challenges to the club and the community,” says Peter Fortenbaugh, the club’s executive director. In order to receive the funds, the club must first raise funds from new donors or from those who have not given in more than a year. “While we welcome and are extremely grateful for these challenges, we still have a lot of work to do. We must get the word out and hope that people respond,” Fortenbaugh continued. “These challenge grants provide a great incentive for anyone wanting to support an organization like the club that is doing good work in the community,” says Christiaan Canter, the club’s director of development. The Sobrato Family Foundation grant will provide $2 for every $1 donated, and the Morgan Family Foundation grant will match contributions $1-to-$1. “This is an excellent opportunity for those who want to maximize their support,” Canter explained. To qualify for the full match, gifts must be from new donors or those who have not given in more than one year and received by June 30. Increases from current donors will also be matched. Founded in 1958, the Peninsula club and its programs have evolved (Nonprofits in Action – continues on page 24) News Briefs Teen Murder Jail Escapee Scaled Wall The 17-year-old who escaped from the Hillcrest Juvenile Hall was awaiting trial where he was to be tried as an adult for a murder he allegedly committed when he was 14. Josue Raul Orozco is an alleged gang member and was noticed missing from the juvenile detention center at 222 Paul Scannell Drive in unincorporated San Mateo. Police are scouring the county, contacting acquaintances and watching the border to Mexico to catch Orozco, who is facing a life sentence for a 2005 Redwood City murder. Authorities believe Orozco scaled a 10-foot brick and stucco wall, escaped to a grass area outside the wall and squeezed through a 2.5-foot hole in a chain link fence separating the area from a nearby staff parking lot. Security cameras show a black, mid-sized sedan resembling a Chevrolet Impala with chrome wheels in that parking lot at the time of the escape, said Loren Buddress, chief probation officer for San Mateo County. “Somehow he was able to get up over that fence. How he was able to do that, we are still looking at that,” Buddress said. The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office and the Probation Department will meet next week for a thorough security investigation of the brand-new facility, which opened in 2006. Wards were officially moved December 2006. There are currently 165 children at juvenile hall and the average stay in 15.5 days, Buddress said. “[Orozco] is probably one of the longest we’ve had here,” Buddress said. Orozco was 14 when arrested for the July 12, 2005, murder of Francisco Rodriguez. Since then, three other juveniles — including Orozco’s younger brother — were convicted in juvenile court for murder, but the trial against him and alleged accomplice Faustino Ayala, 23, has stretched out through a series of delays. He was scheduled for transfer to the McGuire Correctional Facility in five months, when he turns 18. He would remain at the adult facility until the conclusion of his trial. If convicted, he faces life in prison. If caught, he’ll likely have additional charges of escaping added to his rap sheet. That charge carries an extra three years in prison, said Chief Deputy District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe. “He faces the rest of his life in prison. He does not have a whole bunch to lose,” Wagstaffe said. The case was last delayed in January so defense attorneys could continue retesting evidence, Wagstaffe said. According to the prosecution, the defendants and three juveniles encountered Rodriguez near his apartment carport at 475 Redwood Ave. Orozco, then 14, allegedly got out of the car, covered his face, pulled a gun from his waistband and, as Rodriguez turned, fired a shot. Ayala is alleged to be the getaway driver. The five alleged Sureños were arrested less than 24 hours after the shooting and Orozco allegedly confessed. All were charged with murder and a special gang allegation. Orozco’s attorney, Ray Buenaventura, has argued his client’s case shouldn’t stand because his confession was unlawfully solicited and there is insufficient evidence to prove he meant to kill Rodriguez or the shooting was gang-related. Ayala is Orozco’s codefendant and is also scheduled to stand trial in May. The three others charged in the crime were already sentenced to the California Youth Authority. Based on Orozco’s prior history of violence he should be considered dangerous and should not be approached. Citizens are encouraged to report any sightings of Orozco to their local police departments or the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office at 800-547-2700. Career Criminal Pleads Not Guilty to Robbery A 44-year-old man accused of beating a Redwood City convenience store clerk and stealing $300 without stopping his cell phone conversation pleaded not guilty to robbery and will stand trial in June. He was also ordered back to court May 13 for a pretrial conference. On Nov. 1, Derick Charles Robertson, according to the District Attorney’s Office, entered the 7-Eleven on Fifth Avenue while speaking on his phone, demanded money from the clerk and struck him in the face. Robertson reportedly fled with nearly $300 from the register while still in the midst of the same call. If convicted, Robertson — who already has been to prison five different times — could return to state incarceration. Robertson also has two other pending cases: a Nov. 15 charge for drug possession and a Nov. 16 charge for assault on a peace officer during a jail house skirmish for which he is now seeking damages from San Mateo County. Robertson remains in custody in lieu of $100,00 bail. Prison Time for Attempted Murder of Love Interest A Redwood City man whose first jury hung on allegations he shot a woman several times after she reportedly rebuffed his romantic advances was sentenced to 34 years to life in prison on the attempted murder and assault conviction returned after a second trial. Pablo Ramirez, 41, was also convicted of kidnapping and forcible rape in addition to premeditated attempted murder and felony assault with a firearm. Ramirez received nine years plus an extra 25-years-to-life sentence for using a firearm, according to court records clerks. He also received six years for assault but the sentence was stayed. He receives credit for 871 days. Ramirez was arrested Jan. 10, 2006, in Atherton, shortly after police say he shot a 34-year-old woman four times in the head, chest and arm while the two sat in her car in Redwood City. He was reportedly drunk and covered in blood. The woman told police Ramirez had repeatedly sought to be her boyfriend but she always declined. On Jan. 10, after she drove him to his Hancock Street residence, he allegedly shot her with a .25-caliber gun at close range after announcing, “If you’re not going to be mine, you won’t be anyone’s.” Ramirez left the car and the woman drove for help. An Atherton police officer later matched Ramirez’s description to a man spotted entering a taxi. On April 18, after a 19-day trial, the first jury deadlocked 10 to 2 for guilty on attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon and 7 to 5 for acquittal on the rape and kidnapping charge Norovirus Confirmed as Hotel Illness Source County public health officials confirmed norovirus as the reason 62 people fell ill after a Redwood City–San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce event at the Hotel Sofitel. The Redwood City hotel will have a violation on its record for three operational concerns, but there is no way of knowing if those contributed to the spread of norovirus to three employees and 59 attendees, said Environmental Health Director Dean Peterson. Public health investigators noted that a dishwasher did not wash his hands after touching dirty dishes and moving to the clean side, some food was not at the right temperature and wiping rags were not sanitized after each use. The Health Department plans to hold an in-service training for workers to discuss proper hygiene and reiterate the need to stay home if ill. “The Hotel Sofitel is a good employer in that it does offer workers sick leave,” Peterson said. The county’s health department began receiving reports of illness Monday morning, days after the chamber’s annual dinner and awards recognition banquet Jan. 24 at the hotel. The first tallies showed 45 reported illnesses, but the figure is now 62, Peterson said. The department asked attendees what they ate and the symptoms they experienced. Epidemiologists tested samples from nine people. Both led to the conclusion the highly communicable norovirus rather than food poisoning is the culprit. Norovirus is a group of viruses that cause stomach flu symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting and stomach cramps. The illness usually lasts one to two days without any long-term health effects, according to the Center for Disease Control. It spreads through contaminated food or liquids, by (News Briefs – continues on page 24) 23.TheSpectrum.FEB.08 AV BEADCENTRICCOM CELL 2ED WOOD#ITY!RT# E NT E R "ROAD W AY3TUDIO 2ED W OOD# I TY#! News Briefs (continued from page 23) touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then placing that hand in one’s mouth, or through direct contact with someone who is infected and showing symptoms. Peterson said the norovirus was likely transferred via food after cooking, because it does not survive well at high temperatures. The Hotel Sofitel has no prior violations or health complaints on record. The hotel is relieved no one became gravely ill and is working with the health department to prevent future incidents, said spokeswoman Janice Maragakis on Tuesday. Those staying at the hotel or with plans to attend events there should not be overly concerned, Peterson said. “Just do what you would normally do — wash your hands, don’t touch your face with your hands, that sort of thing,” he said. While he doesn’t anticipate future problems with the hotel, Peterson said people need to be realize that nothing is 100 percent foolproof. “Keep in mind, even though the light is green you can still be hit by a car,” he said. !J=9L!A>LK HANDCRAFTEDJEWELRY WWWB EADCENTRICCOM AV BEADCENTRICCOM CELL !PRIL6ANDERBILT 2ED WOOD#ITY!RT# E NT E R "ROAD W AY3TUDIO 2ED W OOD# I TY#! (Nonprofits in Action – continued from page 22) Music for Our Children Second Annual Benefit Concert & Auction Performing Artist: Earl Thomas Saturday, March 22, 7–10 p.m. The Little Fox Theatre, downtown Redwood City Tickets: $55 ($65 after March 8 and at the door) Includes two drinks. $35 is tax deductible. Please be at least 21. A benefit for Advocates for Children. 9/11 Advocates for Children Tel 650-212-4423 Fax 650-212-4422 info@advocatesfc.org www.advocatesfc.org All proceeds help provide a volunteer advocate for an abused and neglected child in the San Mateo County foster care system. With your support, we will provide 250 children and youth with a caring adult mentor who speaks up for their best interests. We look forward to celebrating an exciting evening of music, auctions and fun with our friends and supporters. Advertise with The Spectrum 650.368.2434 www.SpectrumMagazine.net Prior Knowledge of The most complete book to date on how and why powerful groups at CIA and FBI Headquarters allowed the al Qaeda terrorists to murder 3000 Americans on 9/11 www.eventson911.com Palo Alto Publishing - 650 533 5595 4902549001 greatly. Today, the club has seven sites — three clubhouses and four school-based programs. In the areas served by the club, the median per capita income is approximately $24,000, 80 percent of the children perform below grade level and upwards of 70 percent of youth do not complete high school. Last year over 3,250 children aged 6-18 participated in the club’s programs, a 50 percent increase over the previous year. On average, almost 1,000 youth attend the club daily. The club is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. “For many years the club existed largely as a safe place for kids to hang out,” said Fortenbaugh. “But society has changed and that is not enough anymore. We must guide our members to understand the importance of education. They need to graduate from high school with a plan for their future. We are partnering closer with schools and families. We ask ourselves every day how we can make Silicon Valley a great place to grow up for all of our children. The club’s programs are made possible by a combination of gifts and grants from the community. Families contribute what they can. No child is ever turned away. Those interested in making a gift to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula can call 650-646-6140 or visit the club’s Web site at www.bgcp.org. _ Business _ Estate Planning _ Real Estate _ Employment Law _ Litigation For over half a century, the Hannig family has been serving their clients and our local community. Hannig Law Firm LLP is proud to continue this tradition by supporting supportingthethe Redwood City Police Redwood City Police Athletic League and League Other Non-Profit Groups in Redwood City. Activities 2007 Blues Festival. 2 9 9 1 El C a mino R ea l R ed wo o d C it y , C A 9 4 0 6 1 - 4 0 0 3 Pho ne: 6 5 0 .4 8 2 .3 0 4 0 F a x : 6 5 0 .4 8 2 . 2 8 2 0 www .hannigla w.c o m www .hannig.us Redwood City Through the Years James Peace – Redwood City thought highly of him and buried him with honors. James Peace was the second white man to settle in the redwoods of what is now San Mateo County. The first was William Smith, who was known later as “Bill the Sawyer.” Peace was born in the Orkney Islands. His father, Stewart Peace, was from Scotland and his mother, Ellen (maiden name Essen) from Denmark. James was born in 1798 and had what little schooling was available in the Islands. His father was a fisherman, and when James was 11 years old he developed a serious desire to go to sea as a fisherman himself. His parents were dead set against someone his age going to sea. A whaling vessel was about to set sail from a neighboring port, so James hid himself aboard the vessel, waited until it was well at sea and, a day later, revealed himself. The captain had no choice but to keep him on board for the duration of the voyage. While at sea, the ship was wrecked and the entire crew spent two weeks on the ice before they were rescued. “Jimmy,” as he became known on the voyage, was away for some nine months. Shortly after his return, he bound himself over to another ship for four years and was involved in the process of trade between North Shields and London. Upon completion of that contract, he signed aboard the ship Mountaineer and sailed between Glasgow and Calcutta. After several years, his contract ended and he left the ship at Liverpool. It was at Liverpool that he signed on to the Neriad for a trip from England to the Pacific Coast, the destination being the Columbia River. During the passage up the Pacific Coast, just after they passed Monterey, Peace had a runin with the captain and the first mate. The ship docked at San Francisco, or Yerba Buena, as it was known then. One night, while on the first watch, Peace placed all his worldly possessions into a small boat and lowered it over the side. Fortunately, the man who was scheduled to replace him failed to wake up, and by the time his absence was discovered, he had more than enough time to find a location to hide. He hid in dense and tangled underbrush and remained there for some time, knowing that the ship would send a search party. Peace’s hiding place was discovered by a Spanish woman, Juanita Byeronlys, and he was able to communicate with her through words and hand demonstrations. The woman recognized his need for food and comfort, so she brought him food for several days and then found him a place to stay for several more days. Señora Byeronlys was able to tell Peace about a man named Smith who was living and working in the redwoods. She gave him directions on how to find Smith, stating that it would be about three days’ travel. She told him where to start, and he wrapped his belongings in a large towel and began his next journey. Peace worked his way through heavy brush and cold, foggy locations deep in the redwoods, passing mountain lions, grizzly bears and other wild animals. He also passed through several Indian villages. Finally, after three days, he found Smith in the area we now know as Woodside. Smith’s residence was a shanty, built near today’s King’s Mountain Road and Woodside Road. Peace built his first dwelling in much the same form. Peace was very skilled with the tools Smith used, and the two became friends. Peace came in contact with the fathers from the Santa Clara Mission, who recognized his competence with tools and placed him in charge of several tribes of Ohlone Indians. He was able to teach these Indians the use of the tools of the day. He was also familiar with basic agriculture and was able to help the Indians plant and care for a few recognized vegetables, which he obtained from the Mission fathers. In the year 1835, Peace married Guadalupe, the daughter of Pedro Valencia, and with her had two sons, James and Antonio. Both sons lived into old age, but Guadalupe passed away early, leaving Peace to return to his bachelor days and making him a bit careless. He began spending a bit more time drinking. Peace developed wheels and made carts, which were all very new to the redwood forest. His process of making wheels was to saw a two-inch piece off a redwood log and bore out the center. He would make two of these cuts and bores, then place a strong redwood branch through the holes to make an axle. This accomplished, he could repeat the process, place boards across the axles and haul small items. This process was, of course, rapidly improved so sawmill workers could haul milled lumber to town. In the year 1840, Peace and about 40 other white men were seized by the Mexican authorities, put in irons and placed on the bark Gobernador Gurpuzoarna, which set sail to San Blas, Mexico. From San Blas, the prisoners were taken to Tepic, where, for some reason, they were released. In 1847, Peace moved to Half Moon Bay, and on Election Day he raised the American flag at that small settlement. He thus became the first American to raise the American flag in San By John Edmonds Contributing Writer Mateo County. He had obtained the flag from Dr. R.O. Tripp. Peace purchased and improved a small fishing boat in San Mateo and berthed it in Redwood City. He then cruised the bay, sometimes taking visitors on trips, sometimes fishing, and always having a good time. There was always food and drink on board to meet the needs of anybody on the trip. Peace set his nets in the mud flats not far from the dock he used. He made quite a satisfactory subsistence from these efforts, and while living on the boat he was able to keep his room and board in good shape. “Jimmy” Peace did not have far to walk to the location where he had his greatest social pleasure. The saloons on Main Street were just steps from his dock. He was very popular with all the people of Redwood City, and when he brought his catch in, many flocked to his docks to purchase some of the great, fresh fish. On Oct. 12, 1890, Peace left his favorite haunt on Main Street at a quite late hour, as he had done literally every night for the past three years. Upon arriving at his boat, he staggered off the dock, misjudging the distance, and fell. He hit his head on the gunwales of the boat, knocking himself out and into the water, where he drowned. Peace was buried in the Grand Army of the Republic plot in Union Cemetery. He had never served in the Civil War, which was the only requirement to become a member of the Grand Army of the Republic. But because he was so highly regarded by the soldiers of the Grand Army, and because he had been the first person to raise the American flag in San Mateo County, the Grand Army granted him a true place of honor in their plot. We can only imagine from this act how extremely highly Peace was thought of by all the people of Redwood City. The Spectrum recently ran a story on Site for Sore Eyes. We want to clarify that: 1. Site for Sore Eyes is an optical establishment, not an optometry office. 2. The optometrists next to Site for Sore Eyes are independent practitioners, employed by Sterling VisionCare—a CA licensed Vision Health Care Service Plan. We apologize for any mistake our readers might have experienced. o { w{{{w{{yw|z~{{|{y|w{| D m{=fw| o [{[w f\{{i{y zY {{fw@ ME BOOKANEYEEXAMONLINETODAYAT {| {{{Dy ¥ e{C{wi Z wx{Y wyb{{:OO@@>Nx {? X}~wz| :HK ||wy {{w |}w{@@@ h{z zY©GFFK[Yw >i{ wiw ?©LKFJMJDHFHF PERSONALTFSWJDFPERSONALTUZMF #SJOHJOBDVSSFOUFZFFYBNSFDFJQUGSPNBOZEPDUPSBOEXFhMMTVCUSBDUUIFFYBNGFFVQUP GSPNZPVSQVSDIBTFPGBDPNQMFUFQBJSPGHMBTTFTNJOJNVNWBMVFPG 1MVTHFUBTFDPOEQBJSPGQSFTDSJQUJPOFZFHMBTTFTGSFFGSPNPVSMBSHFTQFDJBMGSBNFTFMFDUJPOXJUITJOHMFWJTJPOMFOTFT/PUWBMJEXJUIBOZPUIFSPòFSTEJTDPVOUTDPVQPOTPSJOTVSBODFQSPHSBNT4PNFSFTUSJDUJPOT NBZBQQMZ4FFTUPSFGPSEFUBJMT0òFSFYQJSFT"GUFSSFCBUFPO&BTZXFBSMFOTFT$VSSFOUQSFTDSJQUJPOBOEDPOUBDUMFOTöUUJOHNBZCFSFRVJSFE/PUWBMJEXJUIBOZPUIFSPòFSTEJTDPVOUTDPVQPOTPSJOTVSBODFQSPHSBNT4PNFSFTUSJDUJPOTNBZBQQMZ4FFTUPSFGPSEFUBJMT"UQBSUJDJQBUJOHTUPSFTPOMZ0òFSFYQJSFT4PNFSFTUSJDUJPOTNBZBQQMZ4FFTUPSFGPSEFUBJMT NB ¥[{{ww w{wwwx{xi{}l yw{BwYw| wCy{{z ~{w~yw{{y{wD 650.522.8000 Advertise with The Spectrum 650.368.2434 Michelle Glaubert 650.598.2366 VM 650.722.1193 Cell The Diving Pelican Cafe 650 Bair Island Road . Redwood City . (650) 368-3668 . From 101 take Whipple Avenue East Hours: Tues-Sun 8 AM - 3 pm www.divingpelicancafe.com 744 Lakeview Way, Redwood City, Emerald Hills Join us for outdoor dining on our sun-kissed deck. Enjoy a peaceful waterfront view and our home-cooked dishes made from only the freshest ingre-dients! We serve breakfast, lunch, weekend brunch, espresso, beer & wine. We have plenty of free parking only 5 minutes from Downtown Redwood City! LEVEL 12,000 SF LANDSCAPED LOT $1,899,950 Magnificent curb appeal in this 12 year old 3000 sf 2 story home. Boasting 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 bathroomsincluding office and 1 en suite bedroom on the first floor. Formal entry, spacious dining room, light filled living room with fireplace. Gourmet Granite kitchen with bar, center island, Dacor appliances and an eating area off the family room with fireplace. Hardwood floors, Central vacuum, dual heat zones, alarm system. Attached 3 car garage. Award winning Roy Cloud K-8th. Easy access to 280, Edgewood Park, PCC, Lake, Emerald Hills Golf course & Elk's Lodge. Meal Club Memberships Available Now! Purchase 10 Meals, excluding Sunday's, and recieve your next, 11th meal FREE! Go to www.744lakeviewway.com for VT & photos. Open most Sundays 1-4 pm. Minimum purchase $8.00 - Maximum free meal value $10.00 San Mateo County Historical Association Invites you to Discover an Old Place in a New World San Mateo County H I S TO RY M U S E U M The Redwood City Forty Niners Pop Warner Youth Football and Cheer Presents… Casino Night Fundraiser Saturday, April 19, 2008 American Legion Hall 651 El Camino Real Redwood City 5:30 – 11:00pm Saturday, MARCH 1 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. HANDS ON HISTORY WORKSHOP Scrapbooking - RSVP Required Friday, MARCH 14 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. STORIES FROM THE PAST Ride in stagecoach Saturday, MARCH 15 11 a.m. COURTHOUSE DOCKET SERIES Shipwrecks, Scalawags & Scavengers: The Storied Waters of Pigeon Point $25.00 Per Person Hors d’oeuvres • Dessert • Music • Dancing • No-Host Bar Craps • Roulette • Blackjack • Poker • Texas Hold ‘Em Silent and Live Auction • Door Prizes • Raffle EXHIBIT OPENING Sunday, March 30 Behind the Gates of the Great Estates of the Peninsula Must be 21 or older to attend Contact Marianne Pignati (650) 387-0808 or MPignati@aol.com ADMISSION $4 Adults $2 Student/Senior Children 5 and under FREE Members always FREE San Mateo County HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION 2200 Broadway, Redwood City Tel: 650-299-0104 Web: historysmc.org Every Woman’s Place for Fitness Try us for 5 days FREE! Friendly, helpful staff Classes for all fitness levels Personal training Therapeutic massage Simply bring in this coupon to get started. Ask about our member and non-member options. 650-364-9194 611 Jefferson Ave., Redwood City, CA 94063 Offer valid through 2/29/08 February Special Take 10% off personal training www.everywomanhealthclub.com KAINOS/PENINSULA SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB IRISH NIGHT AT THE VETERAN’S MEMORIAL BUILDING - 1455 MADISON AVENUE - REDWOOD CITY SATURDAY, MARCH 15 TICKETS - $35 PER PERSON ALL INCLUSIVE 5:30 - HAPPY HOUR WITH GREEN BEER & WINE SILENT AUCTION 7:00 - LIVE AUCTION & DINNER MAJOR EVENT UNDERWRITER SAN MATEO CREDIT UNION NORCAL WASTE SYSTEMS ~ ALYN BEALS & DANI GASPARINI THE SPECTRUM MAGAZINE HOSTED BY THE PENINSULA SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB BENEFITING KAINOS HOME & TRAINING CENTER & OTHER LOCAL CHARITIES FOR TICKETS CALL KAINOS (650) 363-2423 Shop Redwood City Shop Redwood City — and keep our sales tax dollars local! Now that a New Year has begun, shouldn’t you make that commitment to shopping locally? Check out our Best of the Best selections — businesses that not only provide excellent service but also contribute to our community. When you are shopping, we urge you to shop local and shop often! Auto Care: Redwood General Tire – 1630 Broadway – This Redwood City institution has been providing quality vehicle services since 1957, from new tires to repair work. Redwood General Tire was founded on and continues to follow the philosophy that good customer service and quality products at fair prices will succeed in the marketplace. Many of their satisfied customers have been with them since their founding. They proudly serve the third generation of many of their first Redwood City customers. Eating and Catering: Canyon Inn – 587 Canyon Road – You will find everything at this Redwood City favorite. Nestled in the quiet neighborhood of Emerald Hills, Canyon Inn is a popular stop for bicycle touring clubs and local sports celebrities. The restaurant is especially noted for its burgers and beers, but it also offers hot and cold sandwiches, hot dogs, fish and chips, spaghetti, ravioli, lasagna, tacos and quesadillas. Diving Pelican Cafe – 650 Bair Island Road, Suite 102 – “Sit on the patio overlooking the water to see all sorts of waterfowl. My favorite item is the Mediterranean salad. A great breakfast is the Eggs Bennett: freshly made Hollandaise sauce over two poached eggs with smoked ham on wholewheat English muffins. This is truly a very comfortable, laid-back, warm and friendly place to enjoy a meal.” for the first dance at your wedding — the expert instructors can design a customized program just for you! Their professionals can also teach and dance at your special event. Get started today. Your first lesson is always complimentary! Financial Institutions: Edward Jones – 702 Marshall St., #515 – For decades, Edward Jones believed in building relationships through face-to-face interaction and adherence to a strategy of recommending quality investments that have proven themselves over time. So does investment representative David Amann, who manages their Redwood City office. Create a financial portfolio that will start the New Year right. Personal Improvement: Business Profile of the Month Every Woman Health Club – 611 Jefferson Ave. – A women-only, bodypositive fitness center in downtown Redwood City. Open since 2003, Every Woman Health Club provides a safe, supportive and accepting environment that encourages women to explore new ways to work out and safely challenge their bodies. Women are encouraged to measure their fitness in terms of strength, endurance, mobility, flexibility and enhanced self-acceptance. At Every Woman Health Club, they want every woman to feel strong from the inside out. The class schedule includes a wide variety of offerings, from step aerobics and cardio strength to yoga and belly dance. The club has state-of-theart weight and cardio equipment, plus free weights, resistance tools, balls and other fun toys. Additional services include functionality assessments, personal training and therapeutic massage. And free parking! One of the best things about Every Woman Health Club is their flexibility in pricing, with several options available for members and nonmembers alike. Membership options include discounted rates for seniors, teens and county employees. Nonmembers can drop in anytime, sign up for a class series to get a discount, or purchase a punch card — 10 visits (or classes) for 10 percent off. Visit their Web site at www.everywomanhealthclub.com for complete details, or call 650-364-9194. Every Woman Health Club is owned and operated locally by women who believe in making exercise a part of their lives. They encourage every woman to stop by and feel the difference. Encore Performance Catering – 2992 Spring St. – Owner Dave Hyman’s menu goes on for eight pages of mouthwatering suggestions for everything from continental breakfasts to appetizers and formal dinners, and he is quick to offer additional possibilities to fit any occasion. Having a strong sense of community, he participates in many local events and contributes leftovers to St. Anthony’s Padua Dining Room. Hyman is also proud of the fact that his business products are nearly 100 percent recyclable. Need a caterer? Call Dave at 650-365-3731. Little India – 917 Main St. – This stylish Indian restaurant features a reasonably priced all-you-can-eat buffet for both lunch and dinner, to dine in or take out. The home-style food is mainly from the northwest region of India, though items from other regions of India are also featured. Senior citizens receive $1 off and children under 12 dine at half price. Bring your appetite, because you will want to try everything! Margaritas Mexican Restaurant – 2098 Broadway – “Their chips and salsa are great, and their agua fresca selections are usually really good. Their taco salads are so ginormous and tasty. But the true standout is the huevos rancheros. Words can’t do it justice. Huevos en fuego. It’s phenomenal!” Entertainment: Arthur Murray Dance Studio – 2065 Broadway – Put a little fun in your life! Whatever your goal — meeting people, gaining confidence or preparing Redwood Massage & Sauna – 797 Arguello St. – This professional facility prides itself on having exceptionally talented massage therapists, trained in a variety of specialized techniques to improve your circulation, mental clarity and creativity as well as optimize your overall physical health. Your experience at Redwood Massage & Sauna will enhance your health and well-being naturally amid clean, comfortable and serene surroundings. Re:Juvenate Skin Care – 805 Veterans Blvd., Suite 140 – Together, owners Sherna Madan, M.D., and Linda S. Moore, R.N., have more than 50 years in the health care industry and over 10 years in the field of aesthetics. Whether you are seeing a Re:Juvenate clinician for acne, sun damage, skin tightening, wrinkle reduction or laser hair removal, the process starts with a complimentary consultation with a member of the aesthetic staff. Call 650-261-0500 and mention The Spectrum Magazine. Retail: Lulu’s – 846 Main St. – Owner Nancy Radcliffe has taken 25 years of design experience to create a collection of cards and gifts intermingled with eclectic antique pieces, all affordably priced! You’ll find everything from baby gifts and whimsical candles to perfect hostess gifts. St. Regal Jewelers – 850 Main St. – “This is a great jeweler! Phil, the owner, is amazing. He crafted a ring on time and on budget. He has an incredible eye for detail. I can’t say enough. I would never go anywhere else.” Home Improvements: Lewis Carpet Cleaners – 1.800.23.LEWIS – Founded in 1985, Lewis Carpet Cleaners has grown from one small, portable machine to an office/warehouse of six employees and five working vans. The Lewis family works and lives in Redwood City and has truly made this town their home. They are committed to the vision and success of our community, devoting their time, effort, energy and services. Ask about their Spectrum special: Get 100 square feet of carpet cleaned for absolutely nothing. Call today and make your house or living space luxurious for the New Year! 31.TheSpectrum.FEB.08 Finance : Five Questions to Ask Yourself When You Near Retirement By David Amann Special to The Spectrum Whenever you see people enjoying a comfortable retirement — traveling, volunteering, pursuing hobbies, taking up a new career — you can be pretty sure it all didn’t happen by accident. In fact, success at retirement is similar to success in just about any endeavor: You have to plan for it. Of course, your planning could take many different forms. But, as you get close to retirement, you might find it easier to organize your efforts if you ask yourself these five key questions: Where am I today? Shortly before you retire, make a detailed list of your financial assets, such as your bank accounts, investments, IRA, 401(k), etc. You may want to consider consolidating as many of these accounts as you can with just one company. This consolidation will help you get a clearer picture of your overall situation, and it may even help you reduce maintenance fees and make it easier to calculate required minimum distributions (RMDs) you might have to take once you reach 70½. On the “flip side,” you’ll want to list out all your obligations: mortgages, home equity credit lines, car loans and other debts. How much will I need to enjoy the retirement lifestyle I’ve envisioned? You’ll probably need between 80 percent and 100 percent of your preretirement income to maintain your standard of living in retirement. But this is a general rule; your actual needs will depend on what you want to do during retirement. So if you want to travel extensively, you might need more income than if you choose to stay close to home, volunteering and pursuing hobbies. In any case, try to estimate your annual expenses during retirement, knowing that your plans may change later. How much can I withdraw each year? Your investment portfolio is likely to account for a good percentage of your retirement income. Consequently, you’ll want to work with your financial advisor to determine how much you can take out each year without running out of money. The percentage you withdraw each year will depend on several factors, including your portfolio’s rate of return, the age at which you start taking Social Security and the size of the distributions from your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. What portfolio and lifestyle adjustments do I need to make? Once you’ve determined how much you can realistically withdraw each year, you may need to rebalance your investments to get the right proportion of equities and fixed income. You also might need to look beyond your portfolio to see what lifestyle changes you may need to make. For example, you may decide that you wouldn’t mind working for an additional year or so to take some of the pressure off your investments as an income source. How can I stay on course? Over time, your goals, health or income needs may change, so you might have to update your withdrawal and investment strategies. At this stage of your life, you’ll want to review your situation with your financial advisor at least once a year. By asking yourself these questions — and then answering them — you can go a long way toward enjoying the retirement you deserve. (650) 369-1646 www.canyoninn.com Est. 1973 587 Canyon Road Redwood City Head to the Hills - Emerald Hills Hamburgers voted best by Sequoia high School Baseball Team Try our Hacksaw and Guacamole Burgers! Lunches/Patio Hamburgers & Sandwiches Catering/BBQ Soups & Salads Patio Area Available For Kids Birthday Parties /Team Parties/ Adults Daily Homemade Specials Now celebrating our 34th year of business! www.SpectrumMagazine.net Sunday BBQ 10 % Discount with this ad We connect you to the world! Wireless Internet Service available NOW! Handyman Hints : What’s Under Your Sink? By August Murphy Special to The Spectrum Most of us don’t give much thought as to what’s going on under the kitchen sink. For most people, it’s just a convenient place to store cleaning supplies. Well, let’s take a look under there! First to consider are your water shut-off valves. When was the last time you had to turn them off? If it has been a long time, they could be frozen, or the rubber washers themselves could have deteriorated, making them nonfunctional. The worst time to find out is when you have a leak and you can’t turn the water off! Check your valves now and make sure they are operating properly. If not, or if they are very difficult to turn, consider replacing them now. Some of the new ones on the market are very easy to turn on and off. No need for pliers! At the same time, you might consider replacing the water lines to your faucet. Now, what about your drain pipes? Are they old and rusted? Again, replacing them now before they fail completely will prevent nasty water damage from a leak. Everything deteriorates over time. Just as an aside, many individuals place a metal pan on the bottom of the cabinet to contain water if a leak does occur. A simple one can be fabricated out of light gauge metal, or even just an aluminum roasting pan will do the trick. And while we’re under there, let’s talk about the garbage disposal. If it is not running or making noise, push the red reset button. If it still doesn’t work and you hear a hum, that means the blades are stuck. An Allen wrench (usually supplied with the disposal) should be used to turn the blades from the bottom of the garbage disposal. Remember, garbage disposals are meant for table scraps. Don’t put vegetable peelings, especially potato peels, down the disposal. Also, refrain from putting in bones, eggshells, corn cobs or fibrous fruits and vegetables. While running the disposal, be sure to run the water long enough to clear your drain pipes. And if you have a plug under there for your disposal and/or dishwasher, it is a good idea to ensure that it is protected with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). This is an inexpensive electrical device that can prevent electrocution should water come into contact with your plug. Very important! If you call a plumber or handyman to unclog a drain, please inform them if you’ve tried using Drano or some other product, as these chemicals can be quite hazardous and cause burns. AARP Driver Safety Program Renewal Class Saturday, March 1, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Goldstar Room The cost is $10. Sign up at the Hospitality Desk or call 650-780-7270. This class is limited to 30 people. First-time participants are required take the eight-hour class. People who have previously taken the eight-hour class may take this four-hour renewal class. Digital Television Is Coming! Wednesday, March 12, 1–2 p.m. This is a FREE presentation about how to get prepared for an important change in broadcasting coming in February 2009. Senior Affairs Commission Meeting Thursday, March 13, 1 p.m. The objectives of the Senior Affairs Commission are to encourage, foster, facilitate, establish and maintain programs for the enhancement of all matters relating to the social, economic and personal well-being of the city’s senior population. The public is invited to attend. AS I WAS SAYING ... The only way I can change is to constantly work at it. Knowing is the beginning. Knowing more and learning more and achieving more. The minute you stop wanting to know more, that’s when you stop growing, that’s when you die, and that’s when you are nothing. So I am searching different things out. I am in therapy, addressing issues I should have resolved years ago, but beyond that I am researching different religions. I was raised in an Italian Catholic family and enjoy the peaceful feeling of Catholicism. But for some reason, it has never fulfilled me to the point where I do not want to look any further. So I keep searching. In doing so, I read my prayers, I read my Zohar, and then I always read fiction because that takes me out of the world that I am in. I like to read the Zohar, which can also be very soothing. To me it is kind of a decoding of the Torah or the Old Testament. So if you want to read things literally, you read the Old Testament, and if you want to understand the hidden meanings of the Torah, you read the Zohar. All very confusing to me but very eye- and mind-opening. I am looking forward to this journey. … I know it might not be the most politically correct question to ask, but I keep wondering why people who have handicapped parking decals on their vehicles are not required to pay any parking fees. I can understand them being given parking spaces that do not require them to walk a great distance to their destinations, even though so many I see walk better than I do. But why not require them to pay? Just asking. … Senior Activities The Veterans Memorial Senior Center, 1455 Madison Ave., Redwood City, provides the following activities that are open to the public. (continued from page 6) St. Patrick’s Day Party Monday, March 17, 12–2 p.m. How about lunch and a bit of the Irish blarney? Wear your green and enjoy a traditional Irish lunch, complete with entertainment, singing and maybe even a bit of luck! Reserve your tickets by calling 650-780-7259. Transportation available. $6 per person. Monterey Whale Watching Tour and Lunch Saturday, April 12, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. The Monterey whale watching tours take place in the third largest deep submarine canyon in the world. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is home to 27 species of marine mammals, 100+ species of marine birds, 345 species of fish and the leatherback turtle. After the tour, we will have lunch at a wonderful restaurant in Monterey. To sign up for this exciting excursion, please contact Christina Canessa at 650-780-7343. Fee: $60. To learn more about the Veterans Memorial Senior Center, call 650-780-7270. As you will read this month, County Supervisor Rose Jacobs Gibson has declared her intention to run for re-election later this year. Rumors have Redwood City Councilwoman Diane Howard taking her on — that will not happen. But I can guarantee you that former sheriff and current Sequoia Healthcare District board member Don Horsley will run for the supervisor seat that will be available when Rich Gordon terms out in 2010. Horsley has already been out securing endorsements from elected officials and those who are active in their communities. He is planning get-togethers and fundraisers, and if projections are correct, he will raise around $100,000 by year’s end. Why start so early, you might ask? When a high-profile and respected person like Horsley runs for anything, it really is best to know his intentions because a challenger might rethink running knowing, at least in this case, they would have a very difficult time winning. … I have a secret of sorts to share with you. With all the complaints about the parking meter system in the downtown area, I have discovered a way to save some money if you are lucky. Here it goes: When you use the new system, it will first ask you to enter your space number. Once you do that, it will ask you if you want to (1) purchase time or (2) add time. Regardless of your intentions, push (2) and it will tell you if the person who left the spot before you has any time left, and you can then just add the time you will need to it. If you are lucky, sometimes there is enough time left to accommodate your time needed. I have used that tactic almost every day, and I would say I frequently do not have to pay anything. Good luck! … What are you going to do with that extra money? How about a subscription to a local magazine, for starters? As I was saying… 33.TheSpectrum.FEB.08 A Minute With Lourdes Carini Lourdes Carini was born in Havana, Cuba, and moved to Redwood City in 1963. She is a graduate of Notre Dame High School in Belmont (class of 1973). She has been married to her high school sweetheart, Pete, for 35 years and they have four children: Dominic, Patricia, Estella and Lucia. Carini is a senior loan consultant for Mason-McDuffie, with an office in Redwood City. Among her many community activities, she is past president of the Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club, serves on the board of El Centro de Libertad and is a member of the Redwood City Women’s Club, the Chamber of Commerce and the San Mateo County Association of Realtors. How would your mother describe you in one word? Determined. What advice do you give to someone wanting to get involved in our community? Get involved with something you like to do. Favorite song? “At Last.” If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be? A dancer. Favorite television show? “Jeopardy” and “Wheel of Fortune.” What is your idea of perfect happiness? I’m here! What is your most treasured possession? My family. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My beautiful family. One word to describe your life right now? Happy. What talent would you most like to have? Love to be able to sing. Which historical figure do you most identify with? I don’t identify with any — I am way too young. Something no one knows about you? That I have 10 beautiful grandchildren, which includes three sets of twins. Which living person do you most admire? My husband, because he brings me peace, love and happiness. What words or phrases do you most overuse? “Bless her heart.” If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? More patience. What is your greatest regret? Having to leave my homeland. What is your motto? Treat others as you would want to be treated. What or who is the love of your life? My husband, Pete, and my father, Ramon. The two most important men in my life. Law Offices of ROBERT G. CUMMINGS FORMER PROSECUTOR - Now On Your Side - 30 City board & commission seats - apply now! There are 30 opportunities to serve on one of 11 Redwood City boards, commissions, or committees. Right now, the City of Redwood City is seeking applicants - this is a really great opportunity for interested City residents to become directly involved in participating in City government and serving the community. How does one of these sound? EXPERIENCED CRIMINAL DEFENSE: •DUI •Domestic Violence •Felonies & Misdemeanors •White Collar Crime •Immigration (650) 868-8528 • www.rgclaw.us • Architectural Review Committee • Board of Building Review • Civic Cultural Commission • Housing and Human Concerns Committee • Home Improvement Loan Committee • Historic Resources Advisory Committee • Library Board • Parks, Recreation & Community Services Commission • Planning Commission • Board of Port Commissioners • Senior Affairs Commission Further information and applications are available by calling the City Clerk’s office at 650-780-7220, on the City’s website at www.redwoodcity.org (click on “I want to...” and select “Apply for a Board or Commission” ), or by visiting the City Clerk’s office at City Hall, 1017 Middlefield Road, Redwood City. General requirements are that applicants have an interest in civic and community improvement, are 18 years of age or older, are a United States citizen, and are a resident of in corporated Redwood City (some board or commission positions may have additional requirements or preferred areas of expertise). The deadline for submitting applications is 5 pm, Friday, March 21st, 2008. So much more than tires since 1957... We offer much more than quality tires at fair prices. Our ASE certified technicians also perform: • Oil Changes • Brake Services • Smog Test, Inspection, and Certification We are a Gold Shield Station • Scheduled Maintenance (30k, 60k, 90k) ...and other mechanical work Plus we offer exceptional personalized service and we guarantee the lowest total package tire price for all our products. Call or visit today to see why we’ve been an automotive services leader in the Bay Area for 50 years. Redwood General Tire 650-369-0351 • www.RedwoodGeneral.com 1630 Broadway, Redwood City Refreshed... Renewed... Rejuvenated. Actual Patients Before After Before See our CBS Eye On The Bay segment and PBS Special @ www.rejuvenateskincare.net What’s new? Body by Thermage®! Thermage® is a safe and effective procedure that tightens and contours loose skin in all areas of the body, including tummy, thighs, knees, arms and hands. Restore youthful appearance in a matter of an hour, with no down time or recovery! Thermage® is also used for the face, eyes and neck. Thermage® – Top 5% Treatment Center Restylane®/Perlane® Training Center – Platinum Level Botox™ Training Center Re: Juvenate Skincare Clinic is a full service, Linda S. Moore, R.N., Clinical Director non-surgical rejuvenation center offering: ® Botox™, Fillers, Skin Tightening by Thermage®, and Contouring by Thermage®, Laser Hair and Vein Removal, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Brown Spot Treatments, Medical Microdermabrasion, Medical Peels and Leg Vein Sclerotherapy. We also offer medical skincare products including SkinCeuticals, Remergent, CosMedix, La Roche-Posay and DNA Health Institute. After Restylane Trainer Sherna Madan, M.D., Medical Director RE: JUVENATE, INC 805 Veterans Blvd., Suite 140 Redwood City, CA 94063 650.261.0500 www.rejuvenateskincare.net