kappeler - The Spectrum Magazine - Redwood City's Monthly ...

DYLAN 

KAPPELER 

The Thrill, 

The Rush, 

The Dirt! 

Valentine’s Day surprises 

A new gym, a park & loan center 

more in 

“As I Was Saying…”

Let’s Talk Solutions 

Can ONE project be a catalyst for helping solve many existing regional problems like 

GREENHOUSE GASES? 

The ANSWER is YES. 

The Saltworks project in 

Redwood City CAN help 

address serious issues 

around the Bay Area. 

Saltworks conceptual rendering. 

In the Bay Area region, almost 50 percent of greenhouse gas emissions come from cars and trucks. 

Did you know that greenhouse gases are the number one cause to 

global warming? And that the transportation sector – especially 

ridiculously long commutes! – is the leading contributor to 

greenhouse gas emissions? Again, True. 

In the Bay Area, almost 50 percent of greenhouse gas emissions 

come from cars and trucks. That’s even more than similar 

California regions. 

For example, more than 40,000 people commute into Redwood 

City every day for their jobs. They commute from places as far as 

east as Tracy, Modesto and Stockton and as far north as Santa Rosa 

and Sacramento. They commute these crazy distances because 

there are no viable housing options on the Peninsula where the 

jobs are. 

The Saltworks is specifically designed to confront this problem. 

First, the project proposes between 8,000 to 12,000 homes in the 

heart of this nationally significant economic and jobs-rich engine. 

By putting housing closer to jobs, we capture the most obvious 

emitter of carbon to the atmosphere: excessive commutes. 

But getting people closer to their jobs is just a start. The Saltworks 

project proposes major non-vehicular options for its residents, 

like transit connections to downtown Redwood City and to major 

employers around the region. 

Also, at the meaningful densities proposed, people are more 

inclined to walk to the grocery store, walk their kids to school, and 

perform their regular day-to-day activities without their car. 

We remain puzzled by advocacy groups and even nearby local 

governments trying to stop consideration of solutions – solutions 

to climate change and wetlands restoration, to name just two. In 

the face of generational challenges such as these, shouldn’t we 

be coming together for collective and collaborative analysis and 

answers rather than blind, just-say-“no” agendas? 

But don’t take our word for it. See for yourself. 

Examine the facts. Ask for – no, insist upon a thorough, probing, 

and exhaustive evaluation of our proposal and the opportunities – 

all of the opportunities – presented by this site and this proposal. 

Redwood City 

Saltworks 

www.RCSaltworks.com 

Follow Saltworks on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. 

www.SpectrumMagazine.net 

Spectrum_fullpg_Ad_Final.indd 1 

1/26/11 3:20 PM

The Spectrum.FEB.2011 

Steve Penna 

Owner and Publisher 

penna@spectrummagazine.net 

Anne Callery 

Copy Editor 

writers@spectrummagazine.net 

Judy Buchan 

Contributing Writer 


Dale McKee 



Kathy Schrenk 



James Massey 

Graphic Designer 

007massey@gmail.com 

James R. Kaspar 

Cover/Cover Story Photography 

jkaspar@sonic.net 

Contact Information: 

Phone 650-368-2434 

E-mail addresses listed above 

www.spectrummagazine.net 

With Valentine hearts and love in the unseasonable springtime air, we are proud to bring you our 

February 2011 edition. 

This month our cover story is on another high-achieving youth in our community: Dylan Kappeler. The 

Woodside High junior has placed in the top three of every dirt bike race he has ridden in the past year 

and is looking to go pro. All while maintaining a solid 3.7 grade point average. As you will read in this 

article written by contributing writer Kathy Schrenk, Kappeler has the passion and commitment to excel. 

In his column, “As I Was Saying…,” publisher Steve Penna discusses the upcoming November election 

and some of the races and issues that may possibly be in front of voters. Should our community support 

increased taxes? And there have been more shake-ups at City Hall — what say you, Mr. Penna? 

Other topics we have for you this month include the tragic death of Army Spc. Derek T. Simonetta, a 

21-year-old from Redwood City, and how our community is planning to honor him; the opening of a new 

gymnasium at Sequoia High; how Valentine’s Day came early for a “Lucky” credit union member; and 

the birth of natural fraternal quadruplets to a local couple. 

We also have our regular features on senior activities, items of community interest, news briefs, cultural 

and entertainment events, insurance tips from Hector Flamenco, information from the Redwood City 

School District and the popular feature “A Minute With.” 

Another focus of our publication is to encourage you, our readers, to support our valuable Spectrum 

advertisers by using their services when you are out shopping, dining or enjoying yourself in our 

community with friends and family. Many of them have special offers for you to cut out and present, 

including discounts on services, food and beverages, so please take the time to look over their ads this 

month and use their coupons and discounts. And when you visit them, let them know you appreciate 

their support of our local community publication. 

We are currently in the process of making changes to our website. During the next couple of months, 

please visit for up-to-the-day information about our community: www.spectrummagazine.net. Until next 

month, keep reading! 

Contents 

Inside The Spectrum – 4 

RCSD Corner – 5 

“As I Was Saying...” – 6 

Cultural Events – 7 

Valentine’s Day Comes Early 

for a Lucky Member of SMCU – 10 

Community to Build Memorial 

for Simonetta – 12 

Redwood City Soldier Killed in Afghanistan – 12 

Redwood City Police Chief Resigns – 13 

Dylan Kappeler: Riding and Jumping 

with Commitment, Injuries and a 3.7 GPA – 16 

Shop Redwood City – 19 

News Briefs – 20 

Community Interest – 21 

Redwood City Couple’s Early Valentine’s 

Day Present: Natural Fraternal Quadruplets – 24 

Meet Our Community-Minded 

Realtors of Redwood City – 26 

Insurance Tips: Cheap Car Insurance for Teens – 29 

Senior Activities – 29 

A Minute With Karen Chew – 30 

The Spectrum 3

Inside The Spectrum: Cover Story Photo Shoot 

Considering that our cover subject this month is a teenager, it will come 

as no surprise that this month’s cover photo shoot was scheduled via cell 

phone texting between publisher Steve Penna and our subject, Dylan 

Kappeler. The shoot was scheduled for Friday, Jan. 7, at 2 p.m. at Dylan’s 

home in the Woodside High School neighborhood of Redwood City. 

Penna arrived first and was joined shortly after by cover photographer 

James Kaspar. They introduced themselves to Dylan’s father, David (Penna 

had met him before at a neighborhood block party a few years ago), and 

older brother Steven and started the shoot in the front yard. They moved 

across the street for better lighting and shot there for most of the time. 

The concept of the shoot was to show the athletic and academic interests 

of Dylan. Although he spends most weekends away from home competing 

in dirt bike events, he maintains a solid grade point average and is in 

advanced classes. Various shots were taken with that in mind. 

Penna wanted to show the “dirty” side of the sport and moved the shoot 

to a neighbor’s backyard, where they could create some mud. Dylan was 

completely cooperative even though it was a cold afternoon and Penna was 

throwing mud at him while Kaspar captured it all. 

The entire shoot took about an hour. 

As our community plans to honor a youth who was killed in 

Afghanistan, it is a complete pleasure for us here at The Spectrum to honor 

another one as well. We hope that a determined young person like Dylan 

will realize the sacrifices that were made by one of his neighbors for our 

country and our community and honor that by being successful and a 

positive contributor to society. 

Dylan seems like that type of teen. Although the sacrifices may not compare, 

one must admire Dylan for his desire, commitment and achievements, traits we 

all wish upon our youth. It is in that spirit that we introduce you to Dylan Kappeler. 

www.SpectrumMagazine.net

RCSD Corner: News From the Redwood City School District 

Authors, Books and Illustrators at Orion School Feb. 5 

Imagine having a book that means everything to you, and then you get to 

meet the person who created it. Or imagine finding a book that truly speaks 

to you, but you’d never heard of it before listening to the author or illustrator 

talk about her or his work. 

This happens every year at the Orion Children’s Authors and Illustrators 

Festival. Children and their parents walk down the beautiful hallway with 

the California history mural (designed and painted by past Orion students) 

and into the multiuse room, which has been transformed into a children’s 

literature wonderland. The middle of the room is filled with beautiful chapter 

and picture books, while swaths of lavender fabric cascade from the ceiling. 

Around the perimeter of the room are tables behind which sit the talented 

writers and artists who bring children’s literature to life. 

A festival that was started in order to break down the barriers between 

children and the people who create the books they love, the event has also 

grown into a much-loved annual tradition at the school. Sharon Grant, 

coordinator of this year’s festival, says, “This is a schoolwide endeavor. 

Every class adopts an author or illustrator and begins communicating with 

them in September. Each class makes a beautiful banner for their person 

Corrin Rankin 

and hangs it behind their signing table. Orion students have an amazing 

opportunity to also serve as docents/helpers to their authors during the day, 

giving them time to get to know them even better. However,” continues 

Grant, “my favorite 

6 

368-2660 

part is that this is not just about our Orion community 

5 

0 

but is also about reaching out to our community at large. Inviting children 

and their families to an event that celebrates reading and writing.” 

Former Orion student Malik Vallo remembers that when he moved to 

Hawaii his teacher could not believe the number of signed children’s books 

he had or the caliber of author he had met in the hallways of his small public 

school. “It was really cool to be a docent for an author. It was amazing to be 

able to meet the authors of books that I liked and it was interesting to learn 

the stories behind the books.” 

234 Marshall Street #100 

Redwood City, CA 94063 

Donate Your Vehicle 

Se Habla Español 650-363-2423 CA Insurance Lic. #1842835 

This year’s authors and illustrators are: 

• Alma Flor Ada, a multiple award–winning author who writes in both 

English and Spanish 

• Jon Agee, an award-winning author and illustrator whose classic and classy 

books include Smart Feller Fart Smeller and Other Spoonerisms 

• Isabel Campoy, a well-known writer, poet, playwright, songwriter and 

storyteller who writes and tells tales in Spanish and English 

• Elisa Kleven, who is considered the festival’s good luck charm and has 

participated in every festival since its inception and is the award-winning 

author/illustrator of many charming picture books, including the wellknown 

The Paper Princess 

• Maria van Lieshout, the author/illustrator of the beautiful and endearing 

books Peep!, Bloom!, Splash! and more 

• Yuyi Morales, the multiple award–winning author and illustrator of such 

books as Just a Minute: A Trickster Tale and Counting Book and Los Gatos 

Black on Halloween 

• Kathryn Reiss, whose eerie books include Blackthorne Winter: A Murder 

Mystery and Paint by Number. And whose less eerie books include two of 

the Julie books in the American Girl series 

• Pamela Turner, whose science books have garnered kudos and awards 

for making science accessible to all ages. Her book Project Seahorse was 

nominated for a National Association of Science Teachers Outstanding 

Trade Science Book 

So, come one, come all for an enjoyable day of author and illustrator 

presentations and book signings! 

Ninth Annual Orion Children’s Authors and Illustrators Festival 

Saturday, Feb. 5, 10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Orion Elementary School, 815 Allerton St. 

www.orionschool.org 

Admission is free. Books and food will be available to purchase. There will 

be on-site Spanish and American Sign Language translation. 

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 

6 

5 

0 

368-2660 

Corrin Rankin 

234 Marshall Street #100 • Redwood City, CA 94063 

Se Habla Español CA InsuranceLic. #1842835 

Never late for the Theatre 

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Regular $9.95 Vegetarian $7.95 

All You Can Eat Dinner 

Mon - Sat 5 - 9pm 

Regular $12.95 Vegetarian $10.95 

Little India 

Restaurant 

917 Main St., Redwood City 

650-361-8737 • www.littleindiacuisine.com 

10 % off 

with your Parking 

Valadation! 

• Catering 

• In-House Parties 

Available 

• Takeout 


As I Was 

Saying… 

Publisher | Steve Penna 

Now that I got all that off my chest… 

Let’s start this month with the resignation of 

Redwood City Police Chief Louis Cobarruviaz 

(there is a related story in this month’s Spectrum). 

It was not much of a surprise to many when the 

chief submitted his resignation after an extended 

New Year’s vacation. One would assume that he 

had one hell of a time away since he submitted his 

resignation the day he got back. But I don’t think 

that was the case. 

Almost instantly after the chief’s announcement, 

the rumor mill began: He was forced out by the 

City Council, he went out on disability, he got 

another job somewhere, etc. We can all guess, but 

we will not know for sure what actually happened 

until his separation agreement with the city is 

finalized by the City Council later this month. I 

for one cannot wait to see it. What is for sure is 

that he will not be going into the office and working 

as usual up until his official Feb. 16 departure. 

So here is what I can figure out. It seems that 

although Cobarruviaz did what he said he wanted 

to do when hired — reduce crime — he was never 

quite the right fit for our community. He was a big 

city/country–type leader who was used to dealing 

with his duties in a completely different manner 

than his predecessor, Carlos Bolanos, who was 

very community-oriented. Different styles, but to 

his credit Cobarruviaz did what he said he would 

and our community is better because of his leadership. 

Under his leadership, the department has reduced 

crime across the board, and a recent city-funded 

neighborhood survey showed three-quarters of 

residents feel the Police Department does an 

“excellent” job, with four out of five residents 

feeling “very safe” walking in their neighborhood 

after dark. Really impressive, considering. 

Mayor Jeff Ira had made no bones publicly that 

he was unhappy with Cobarruviaz’s leadership; 

just why is unknown. But he is entitled to his opinion 

and, given his position, he is responsible for enabling 

the chief to protect our community, and part of 

that is working with the city manager to find the 

right leadership. If you do not believe in that leadership, 

it is hard to govern. Wouldn’t you think? 

Reading between the lines and trying to gain a 

little insight into the resignation announcement, 

I focused on a line in the city’s press release that 

stated, “He [Cobarruviaz] emphasized that his 

decision was at least partially based on his belief 

that the City Council and their new City Manager 

should have the opportunity to make necessary 

staff reductions and select their own team of 

department managers for the long term.” 

What interests me about that statement is that 

there is no reference to the City Council. If he 

were to make that statement in the release, why 

not include a reference to the mayor or council 


members? Interesting, to say the least. 

Another rumor going around town is that given 

the departure of the chief, the council would 

now want to begin a community discussion on 

consolidation of the department with the county 

Sheriff’s Office. Wrong! 

Remember, it is an election year and those 

incumbents running in November would have 

to be complete idiots to try and pull that off. I 

don’t believe that our community is receptive 

to the consolidation of law enforcement at this 

point (if ever) and certainly not when crime is 

down and approval for the department from the 

community is at an all-time high. Let’s see how 

the city works with reducing benefits such as 

lifetime health insurance and those types of perks 

before we try to eliminate rank-and-file officers, 

which would happen under a consolidation. 

Also, the department is viewed as being very 

administratively heavy with sergeants. So changes 

will be made there once a new leader is in place. 

In the meantime, Capt. Ed Hernandez and 

Capt. Chris Cesena will rotate as the acting chief. 

Both are rumored to be interested in the position, 

but I would assume that any serious candidate 

will come from outside the department once a 

nationwide search begins. 

“One of my main responsibilities right now 

is to get our organization ready for the new city 

manager to step in and get right to work,” interim 

City Manager Bob Bell told me. So we can all 

assume that a new chief will be chosen before the 

new city manager. So I could assume wrong on both. 

“It’s been a great experience for me, working 

in beautiful Redwood City, but I think it’s time 

for me to step aside and let the new city manager 

direct his or her own team,” said Cobarruviaz. 

What a class act! 

.… 

Now on to this November’s City Council election. 

Yes, we have to start talking about that now. 

There will be four incumbents up for re-election: 

Alicia Aguirre (she wants to be mayor, so she 

will be running), Ian Bain (he is not saying he 

is running, but he will), Rosanne Foust (she is 

running) and Barbara Pierce (she is running). 

Rumored to be running: former Mayor Diane 

Howard. She was actually being urged to run for 

the county supervisor seat that will be vacated 

by Rose Jacobs Gibson in 2012, but she decided 

against that because she is starting a new career 

path with Sequoia Hospital and a run for council 

will not happen unless an incumbent decides not 

to run. So she will not be running. 

Other community members are rumored to 

be running: Planning Commissioners Kevin 

Bondonno, Janet Borgens (she ran last year) and 

Nancy Radcliffe, as well as Housing and Human 

Concerns Committee Vice Chairman Cherlene 

Wright (she ran last year). I will explore those in 

the months to come. 

If there are to be legitimate candidates who step 

forward and challenge, they will have to raise 

funds based upon last year’s council race, in the 

ballpark of $40,000. That is unless there is an 

anti-incumbent mood among voters, as happened 

nationwide this past November. 

This election is important for our community, 

with major issues such as the proposed Cargill 

property development, budget and staff issues, 

high-speed rail and the potential of an undesirable 

station in the downtown area, the downtown 

development and so on. To discuss those issues, 

candidates must come forward. If not, why even 

go through the election process? 

.… 

Also this November, the city will be putting 

two issues on the ballot to increase general 

fund revenues: A business tax and a transient 

occupancy tax (a hotel or motel tax). These 

types of taxes go directly into the city’s general 

funds and are mixed up with the sales taxes, etc. 

that are used for police, fire and general-funds 

expenditures. 

The business license tax (which would affect 

the almost 3,400 Redwood City businesses) generates 

$1.4 million a year for the city’s general fund. 

There hasn’t been a business license tax increase 

since 1995. The transient occupancy tax (which 

generates $2.7 million annually for the general 

fund) would increase from 10 percent to 12 percent. 

As you may remember, they tried to pass a 

business license tax in November 2009, and 

our community rejected it 45.8 percent to 54.2 

percent, or 3,415 to 4,049 votes. 

According to Mayor Ira, the City Council would 

merge the two tax campaigns into one. That might 

be the kiss of death for both because although 

our community is likely to be receptive to the 

transient occupancy tax, we are apprehensive 

about having any business tax passed on to us. 

Trying to put both together would make us just 

vote No instead of being able to evaluate each tax 

separately. The city will have to decide if losing 

both is worth the gamble. 

Regardless, this is going to be a tough sell 

to voters. Remember, our garbage rates just 

increased 29.8 percent and the county will most 

likely be putting a tax on the ballot, as will the 

state of California. 

What will come into play is the information 

that gets out to voters as to what the city has done 

(continues on page 28)

Cultural Events 

The Main Gallery 

1018 Main St., Redwood City 

650-701-1018 

www.themaingallery.org 

The Main Gallery, an artists’ cooperative with 

23 members, showcases the work of some of the 

best local talent in the Bay Area. The gallery is 

located in the historic yellow Victorian cottage at 

the corner of Main and Middlefield. The gallery is 

open Wednesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

and weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Mainly Clay 

The Main Gallery is excited to announce their 

annual Mainly Clay show, which opens Feb. 

16 and runs through March 20. This year the 

gallery’s ceramic artists have come together to 

bring you an exciting new body of work. The 

gallery will host a reception with the artists on 

Saturday, Feb. 19, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

Susan Yamaguchi’s work is all wheel-thrown 

ceramics fired in either a raku kiln or a pit fire. 

Most of her pots are not glazed, only colored by 

the firing process. She exclaims, “I am inspired by 

the unexpected, spontaneous effects of the fire on 

the pots. 

Susan Wolf is continuing with the bird imagery 

that she began to use last fall in the Birdsong show. 

She has a few small, single birds, but by and large 

these pieces are mostly flocks. They are tightly 

packed and yet in flight. Wolf says, “This implies 

a high degree of coordination and cooperation.” 

Nina Koepcke’s new work for Mainly Clay 

is based on two themes: extinct and threatened 

species from the animal world and visual puns on 

the tea aesthetic in pottery. The extinct species 

include the dodo bird, the great auk, the passenger 

pigeon and the desert tortoise. The teapot series 

includes a teapot totem and teapot sculptures 

with turtles and birds. Koepcke tells us, “It will 

be interesting to coordinate the work of wildly 

different artists.” 

Pixie Couch has created wall “paintings” in 

clay. “Creating clay canvases, each one has a 

different picture using clay — as if someone may 

be gazing out from a sea of seashells,” she says. 

Nina Koepcke, “Teapot Totem,” ceramic, 2011 

Fox Theatre and Club Fox 

2209 Broadway, downtown Redwood City 

Tickets available at 650-369-7770 or 

www.clubfoxrwc.com 

Catherine Merrill, “Broken,” right panel in triptych, 

21” x 15 x 3”, paper clay, multicolored terra sigilatta 

glazes, gold and copper lusters, 2010 

Doris Fischer-Colbrie, “Serial Bowls,” a set of four bowls 

with a lid that stacks and nests, 9” high when assembled 

Susan Wolf, “Blue Flock,” stoneware, rice paper and 

wood, 17” long 

Catherine Merrill’s work explores the human 

figure and has been shown in over 150 national 

and international exhibitions. She has received 

numerous grants, awards and medals for her 

artwork and her contribution to international 

cultural exchange. She will be exhibiting a series 

of figurative wall triptychs: “Broken,” “Gaia” and 

“After Winter … Spring.” Merrill says, “In all my 

work my first inspiration is working with a live 

model, my muse. The prominence of the human 

figure in my work results from the many years I 

was a dancer both in New York City and Northern 

California. In dance the body is the artistic 

instrument to express emotion and ideas. I am 

also inspired by themes of duality and polarity.” 

Merrill’s work explores the many ways we heal 

and find hope in a sometimes hostile world. 

Doris Fischer-Colbrie’s work explores 

forms and surface treatments of clay. She says, 

“Particularly interesting developments are some 

of my ‘basket vases’ that have grown larger and 

rounder. Some of my stacking and nesting ‘serial 

bowls’ now have a triangular form.” 

Fox Theatre 

The Jay at Maverick’s Big Wave 

Invitational. Any day from Jan. 1 through 

Feb. 28. Live feed. 

Foreverland: An Electrifying 14-Piece 

Tribute to Michael Jackson. 9 p.m. Friday, 

Feb. 18. 

Gallagher. 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26. $18–$35. 

Tainted Love. 9 p.m. Friday, March 11. $20. 

Club Fox 

Rock Skool with special guests The Cover 

Grrlz. 9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11. 

A Romantic Valentine with Nancy 

Gilliland. 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 14. 

Pierre Bensusan. 8 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15. 

Celtic Winter Show featuring Tempest and 

Molly’s Revenge. 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18. 

Love Fool: The Quintessential 90s Band. 9 

p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19. 

Aja Vu Steely Dan Show (Nancy Wenstrom 

and Blues Kitchen open). 9 p.m. Saturday, 

Feb. 26. 


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Valentine’s Day Comes Early for a Lucky Member of SMCU 

On her way to a hard day of work at a local Lucky 

supermarket, Teresa Guiterrez stopped by a 

branch of San Mateo Credit Union, where she has 

been a member for the past 10 years. As part of a 

car sale promotion, SMCU had mailed her a key 

that might possibly open a lock box containing the 

key to a 2011 Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid. 

“I thought it was unlikely that I’d be the winner 

of the car,” Guiterrez said. “But I decided to take 

a chance anyway. I had nothing to lose, and it’s 

always such a pleasant experience to go to the 

credit union because the people there are so friendly.” 

That chance paid off, because her key was the 

winning one. “When the key turned in the lock, 

I couldn’t believe it,” Guiterrez said. “It felt like 

Christmas, my birthday and winning the lottery 

— all rolled into one.” 

Her win came early in the first day of a car 

sale that was held in the parking lot of SMCU’s 

Redwood City branch at 525 Middlefield Road. 

The event was part of a series of scheduled 

vehicle sales that feature hundreds of certified 

preowned vehicles. As a special incentive to select 

SMCU members, keys to the lock box were sent 

out a few weeks prior to the event. 

“The key giveaway is the highlight of the car 

sale,” said SMCU President and CEO Barry 

Jolette. “It’s always a treat to see the expression 

on the face of the winner.” Guiterrez’s smile 

proves Jolette is right. 

The environmentally friendly, 18,000-square-foot, 

1,400-seat spectator gymnasium at Sequoia High School 

was officially opened on Jan. 12 with a ribboncutting 

ceremony and community reception. 

Local dignitaries and community members 

joined the Sequoia community in celebrating the 

grand opening of the facility that broke ground 

one year ago and was funded by Measure J, the 

bond passed by voters in 2008. 

Along with the new spectator gymnasium, the 

$10 million project covering 1.5 acres of Sequoia’s 

historic 40-acre campus included refurbishing of 

the school’s two existing gyms and construction 

of new athletic plazas, student drop-off and vehicle 

turnaround areas, site walls, fencing and landscaping. 

Immediately following the grand opening 

celebration, the boys basketball team played its 

season opener in a contest with San Mateo High. 

During the opening program, homage was 

paid to the Sequoia High athletes who achieved 

greatness on the school’s courts during the past 

115 years, including Bob Peterson (1950), who 

played on the NBA’s New York Knicks; Charles 

Johnson (1967), who earned NBA championship 

rings with the Golden State Warriors and the 

Washington Bullets; and, more recently, Mercedes 

Marchbanks (2005), a high-scoring, all-court 

player who was MVP and captain of the girls 

basketball team as well as named San Mateo 

County Athlete of the Year for 2004–05. 

Visitors are greeted to the new gym with 

a glass-enclosed lobby and area for food 

concessions and booster sales. Right outside 

the main entrance to the new gym is a wall 


Editor’s note: Founded in 1952, San Mateo Credit Union 

is a member-owned financial institution that currently 

serves more than 72,000 individuals and manages nearly 

$600 million in assets. Six conveniently located branches, 

enhanced by a sophisticated online banking system, bring a 

full range of financial services within easy access. For more 

information or to locate a branch, visit www.smcu.org or call 

Member Services at 650-363-1725 Monday through Friday, 8 

a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

New Gymnasium Opens at Sequoia High 

memorializing donors to the Sequoia High 

athletics program. 

The new gym features a tournament basketball 

court, a tournament volleyball court, two practice 

basketball courts and eight badminton courts. 

Designed to meet LEED Gold certification, one 

of the highest nationally recognized sustainability 

standards for green design, the building boasts 

myriad green features that are topped off with an 

8-foot-high clerestory roof monitor that runs the 

full length of the building and floods the interior 

space with diffuse natural light year-round. 

The roof monitor is optimally sized to keep 

light overhead and prevents afternoon glare on 

the courts below. Through careful placement 

of windows and the overhead skylight, the use 

of artificial lighting during the daytime will be 

reduced over 70 percent annually. 

Within the roof monitor are operable windows 

connected to the mechanical system. As 

temperatures rise inside the gym, the windows 

open to allow for hot-air exhaustion. 

The HVAC system is designed with highefficiency 

ventilation and cooling units that 

exceed California’s stringent Title 24 energy 

requirements, and the roof monitor further 

enhances energy efficiency. The roofing system 

is covered with a photovoltaic laminate film that 

generates over 50 percent of the energy consumed 

by the building. 

Gym flooring is made of FSC-certified maple 

and the structure below is made from 100 

percent recycled plastic material. Wherever 

possible, products that are rapidly renewable or 

manufactured with recycled content were selected 

over their conventional alternatives, including the 

steel, concrete and tile used in the project. 

Outside, rainwater runoff is captured on-site 

and is filtered through the landscaping, which 

employs drought-tolerant plants and a low-water 

irrigation system. 

Overall, the new facility was designed to 

complement the central features of the historic 

school campus in terms of roof slope, window 

proportion and building volume. 

Former coach Bob Anderson (left) and Glenn Stewart 

’43 (center) enjoy the opening.

WOODSIDE HIGH SCHOOL 

ATHLETIC BOOSTERS PRESENTS 

R U N W A Y T O 

F A S H I O N H E A V E N 

2 0 1 1 

FEATURING THE SENIOR CLASS & STUDENT ATHLETES 

FEBRUARY 12, 2011 

PURCHASE TICKETS AT WWW.WOODSIDEATHLETICS.COM 

TICKET BOX OFFICE 650-367-9750 EXT. 4851 

LUNCHEON SHOW AT NOON, TICKETS $20 ADULTS • $15 STUDENTS 

EVENING SHOW AT 5:00 PM, TICKETS $15 ADULTS • $10 STUDENTS 

PROCEEDS BENEFIT WHS ATHLETICS 


Redwood City Soldier Killed in Afghanistan 

Army Spc. Derek T. Simonetta, a 

21-year-old from Redwood City, 

was among six soldiers killed in an 

insurgent attack in Afghanistan, 

according to the Department of 

Defense. 

Simonetta was killed Dec. 12 in Howz-e- 

Madad, Kandahar province, Afghanistan, by an 

improvised explosive in a vehicle. 

Simonetta, an infantryman, attended Carlmont 

High School in Belmont, where he met his 

future wife, Kimberly. He moved to Redding and 

transferred schools but remained in touch with 

Kimberly while in high school. 

“He was a well-behaved young man and very 

good natured. I’m very sad to hear of this news. I 

thank him for his sacrifice,” said Carlmont teacher 

Jaime Garcia, who had Simonetta as a student his 

freshman year. 

Simonetta joined the Army in September 2008 

and arrived at Fort Campbell in Kentucky the 

following February. During his tenure, he earned 

the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan 

Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism 

Service Medal and Army Service Ribbon. 

Simonetta is survived by his wife, Kimberly 

Anne Simonetta, his father, Jim Lemp, mother, 

Tanya Simonetta, and brother, Jordan Simonetta. 

Also survived by his grandparents, Paul and 

Bonnie Simonetta, James and Lucy Lemp, greatgrandmother 

Mary Beffa, aunt Sandra Gonser 

and family friend Albert Phippf. Funeral services 

were held on Tuesday, Dec. 21, at St. Gregory’s 

Church in San Mateo. 

Simonetta was one of six soldiers killed in the 

attack. Other soldiers who were killed include 

Cpl. Sean Collins, 25, of Ewa Beach, Hawaii; Cpl. 

Willie McLawhorn Jr. of Conway, N.C.; Spc. Patrick 

Deans, 22, of Orlando, Fla.; Spc. Kenneth Necochea 

Jr., 21, of San Diego; and Spc. Jorge Villacis, 24, of 

Sunrise, Fla. 

All six were supporting Operation Enduring 

Freedom and were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 

502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat 

Team, 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell. 

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger commended the 

California soldiers’ heroism in a statement. 

“The deaths of Spc. Kenneth Necochea Jr. and 

Spc Derek Simonetta are a great loss for California 

and the nation,” Schwarzenegger said. “Their 

sacrifice on behalf of our country is a solemn 

reminder of the value of our freedoms.” 

Community to Build Memorial for Simonetta 


By Stacie Chan, Special to The Spectrum 

While serving his country over in Kandahar, Afganistan, 

Redwood City native Army Spc. Derek T. Simonetta 

was killed on Dec. 12 along with five other soldiers. Yet 

his memory will not be forgotten, thanks to the efforts 

of the Redwood City community. 

“I’m so honored on my husband’s behalf that the community could come 

together and do such wonderful things like this,” said his wife, Kimberly. 

Dee Eva, a longtime community organizer and Sequoia High School 

alumna, has plans for building a memorial at the Veterans Memorial at 

Sequoia High School. Currently, donations total $1,800, enough to plant a 

tree in his honor. But with continuing contributions, plans for an engraved 

concrete bench are in the works. 

“This was the first combat casualty that Redwood City had seen in years,” 

Eva said. “And we just want to show our appreciation for his sacrifice.” 

Simonetta attended Woodside High School and Carlmont High School in 

Belmont, but Eva said Simonetta had deep ties to Redwood City and Sequoia 

High School. 

Simonetta’s paternal grandmother, Lucy Lemp, graduated from Sequoia 

High School along with Eva and her husband. 

“Our family is extremely grateful to all the individuals for their continued 

support and contributions they have made toward [Simonetta’s] memorial,” 

Lemp said. “This has been a very difficult time for all of us but the 

outpouring of generosity from so many people is so comforting and amazing. 

The fact that the memorial will be at Sequoia is wonderful because so many 

of Derek’s family attended Sequoia and live nearby.” 

Though donations will be collected until February, Eva said they will 

“entertain donations at any time.” Once enough money is collected, Eva said 

there will be a formal ceremony. 

Checks can be made to the Sequoia High School Alumni Association 

(SHSAA), addressed to Dee Eva and mailed to 1021 Arlington Road, Redwood 

City, CA 94062. For more information, you can call Eva at 650-368-4800. 

Editor’s note: This article appeared first on www.redwoodcity.patch.com.

Redwood City Police Chief Resigns 

By Steve Penna, Publisher 

Louis Cobarruviaz 

Almost exactly four years and one week after he 

was sworn in, Redwood City Police Chief Louis 

Cobarruviaz announced he is stepping down from 

his position effective Feb. 16. 

Cobarruviaz was the fifth-highest-paid city 

employee last year with a salary of $213,279. 

“After careful consideration of a number of 

personal and professional issues, I have decided to 

resign from the Redwood City Police Department, 

effective February 16, 2011,” Cobarruviaz stated 

in an official memorandum to his officers. “This 

has been a very difficult decision for me, as it has 

been truly an honor and a privilege to work with such an 

outstanding and dedicated group of professionals, 

sworn and non-sworn, over the last 4 years.” 

The resignation comes on the heels of a cityfunded 

neighborhood survey just released that 

showed three-quarters of residents feel the Police 

Department does an “excellent” job, with four out 

of five residents feeling “very safe” walking in 

their neighborhood after dark. 

“I am proud of what we have accomplished 

together. We improved police computerization 

department-wide, made significant reductions 

in crime, improved supervision in two key 

units, re-established the Police Harbor Patrol 

Program, emphasized truancy abatement and 

upgraded department policy and procedures. 

We accomplished these and other positive 

steps during difficult economic times, in spite 

of personnel reductions and other challenges,” 

Cobarruviaz stated. 

In response, Mike Reynolds, president of 

the Police Officers Association, said, “Chief 

Cobarruviaz served Redwood City well by 

leading the Police Department with a wealth 

of experience and a vision to make productive, 

creative changes in an attempt to reduce crime 

and strengthen the relationship between the 

department and the citizens of Redwood City. 

“During his tenure as the chief of police, much 

of which was during the ongoing and challenging 

budget crisis, he worked with a combination 

of integrity and a strong resolve to provide 

public safety needs to the community despite a 

dwindling budget and a significant reduction in 

staffing. He was very dedicated to and caring of 

the men and women of the Redwood City Police 

Officers Association and we wish him the best of 

luck in his new endeavors.” Reynolds added. 

Although City Council members have been 

tight-lipped about the reasons for the resignation, 

Councilwoman Rosanne Foust said that “Lou had 

a wonderful presence in our community and I 

have the utmost respect for him.” 

“The chief has done a great job for our city and 

I wish him the best in whatever his future holds,” 

said Councilman John Seybert. “He has a very 

distinguished law enforcement career and we 

were fortunate to have him serve Redwood City 

the past four years,” he added. 

The resignation will now be another step in the 

city’s staff and department reorganization that has 

included the retirement of City Manager Peter 

Ingram, the elimination of the deputy city manager 

position, two demotions in the Planning and 

Economic Development Department management, 

the hiring of a new economic development 

coordinator and now Cobarruviaz’s departure. 

Cobarruviaz’s career is impressive. He 

originally had no intention of going into law 

enforcement. Instead, he was headed for a 

career in medicine, majoring in pre-med at the 

University of California, Berkeley. But a dislike 

for chemistry caused him to drop out. He opted 

for a three-year stint in the Army as a paratrooper 

in the 101st Airborne Division. After the Army, 

he attended San Jose State University. He started 

working at the San Jose Police Department, with 

hopes of saving up enough money to attend law 

school. But he fell in love with police work. His 

career developed and, over the years, he worked 

his way up to the top spot: chief of police of San 

Jose. He held that position from 1991 to 1998. 

After retiring, Cobarruviaz spent six years in 

El Salvador, where he introduced modern policing 

methods and management, helping the country 

become a model of democratic law enforcement 

in Central America. Following his success in El 

Salvador, Cobarruviaz spent one year in Iraq, 

where he commanded the International Police 

Liaison Officers, who provide training to Iraqi police. 

Before he left Iraq, Cobarruviaz established an 

internal-affairs unit for Afghanistan and Iraq, with 

teams of independent investigators, to investigate 

law violations or policy violations by any of the staff. 

While in Amman, Jordan, for four weeks, 

Cobarruviaz spotted an advertisement in Police 

Chief Magazine for a police chief slot that had 

opened up in Redwood City. He saw it as an 

opportunity to go home to an area he loved and to 

a department that had a very good reputation. It 

was also closer to his granddaughter, Heaven, in 

Gilroy. Cobarruviaz has a daughter, Laura, and a 

stepdaughter, Deanna, both in their 30s. 

The City of Redwood City swore in 

Cobarruviaz on Jan. 18, 2007. He was hired 

as an “at will” employee as part of the 

executive management group. He had to pass 

a pre-employment physical and psychological 

evaluation as well as an intensive background 

check. As part of his contract he was required 

to live within the city boundaries and currently 

resides in the Redwood Shores neighborhood with 

his wife, Barbara. 

During his four years as chief, Cobarruviaz was 

not immune to controversy. In 2009, Cobarruviaz 

backed a moratorium on medical marijuana 

collectives because of the secondary effects of 

crime and nuisance complaints on the community. 

More specifically, Cobarruviaz cited the city of 

San Mateo’s need for more police services before 

the Drug Enforcement Agency shut down four 

marijuana dispensaries in 2007. Cobarruviaz 

pointed to the need for an “opportunity to provide 

a thoughtful study of the potential impacts.” 

Cobarruviaz was also involved in a DUI 

checkpoint controversy in July 2009 after 

Redwood City Councilwoman Barbara Pierce 

called him and expressed concern about an 

in-process checkpoint’s proximity to the Fair 

Oaks Community Center, popular with Latino 

residents. Some, including rank-and-file officers, 

questioned whether the order to shut down the 

checkpoint should have been made and wondered 

whether Pierce went too far in bringing her 

concerns to the chief. The shutdown, according 

to officers, also underscored a divide on the part 

of the Fair Oaks Community Center between 

providing services to their clients and letting law 

enforcement officials do their jobs. 

Cobarruviaz said the use of Fair Oaks was 

“unfortunate” and that “as soon as I was notified 

by … Pierce of the concerns expressed by 

community center representatives, I notified … 

“The chief has done a great job for our city and 

I wish him the best in whatever his future holds.” 

my captain and asked him to move the checkpoint 

to a different location on Middlefield Road, [or] 

suspend it.” He also wrote he supported the 

decision and took full responsibility. 

The City Council of Redwood City is governed 

by a city charter that prohibits council members 

from intervening in the work of the city manager 

or a department head, including the police chief. 

Pierce said she was “very careful” to not violate 

the charter and defended her decision to contact 

the chief after she followed a “proper chain of 

command.” Then City Attorney Stan Yamamoto 

agreed and ruled there were no violations 

committed to the charter. 

Soon after, Yamamoto left the city to accept a 

position with the Santa Clara Valley Water District. 

In June 2010 a report from the San Mateo 

County civil grand jury questioned the use of 

Redwood City’s red-light cameras. It suggested 

that the cameras were more effective in creating 

positive cash revenues for governments than as 

lifesavers. Based on data from November 2009 

through March 2010, the grand jury found that 

Redwood City issued an average of 500 citations 

a month from infractions caught by red-light 

cameras. Most of the revenue from fines went to 

the state and county, but what was left over for the 

city amounted to an average of about $65,000 per 

month, according to the report. 

(continues on next page) 


The Spectrum Mag AD 4/2/08 4:23 PM Page 1 

Redwood City Police Chief Resigns 

Continued from previous page 

In response, a letter from Cobarruviaz ignored every substantial 

recommendation offered by the grand jury. For example, because the number 

of accidents was not going down, the city disagreed with the grand jury 

recommendation that the city measure the program’s ongoing effectiveness 

by the number of collisions before and after camera installation. The grand 

jury insisted that the City Council be provided a regular update on these rates 

on at least an annual basis, but no such report has been implemented. The 

City Council later voted to keep the red light cameras. 

After accepting the chief position in 2007, Cobarruviaz said his main 

focus would be on reducing overall crime in the community. In a budget 

recommendation report from then city manager Ingram in June 2010, 

Cobarruviaz stated: “During the last three years, the highly motivated, 

proactive efforts of sworn police personnel in our department have had a 

significant impact on violent crime and other serious crimes in Redwood 

City. Primarily through police efforts, the department has made significant 

reductions in crimes such as homicide, aggravated assault and other felony 

crimes. Simultaneously, they have increased drunk-driving arrests and the 

issuance of traffic citations, thereby increasing community safety.” 

In fact, during the 2009–10 fiscal year, Cobarruviaz and the department 

reduced crime across the board. Criminal homicides in the city dropped to 

only one. There were only 188 vehicle thefts and 106 total reported assaults. 

As Cobarruviaz leaves, the changes at City Hall are expected to 

continue. The City Council recently approved the allocation of $75,000 

with Management Partners Inc. to study the city organization and make 

recommendations on changes. 

According to Mayor Jeff Ira, the city will discuss the process of searching 

for a new police chief “over the next few weeks.” In the meantime, Capt. Ed 

Hernandez and Capt. Chris Cesena will rotate as the acting chief. 

“I thank you all for your outstanding service and for your commitment to 

public safety in Redwood City. I salute you and wish you the best in all your 

future endeavors,” Cobarruviaz said to his officers. 

Thank You 

for Supporting the 

Uccelli Family 

Through the Years 

We urge you to contribute 

and support our local 

non-profits who do 

outstanding work in 

our community. 

Peter and Paula Uccelli Foundation 

650-366-0922 


Events Around Town 

Official Grand Opening – Hawes Park 

Did you know that Hawes Park was the first community park in Redwood City, originally built in 1934? Well, it was, and now it has been totally renovated with new dugouts, 

bleachers, shade awnings, a score booth, restrooms and new synthetic turf at a cost of nearly $900,000. The park opened the last week of December, but the official grand 

opening had to be delayed due to rain. Top row, from left: Mayor Jeff Ira speaks to the crowd. Councilman Ian Bain (second from left) with Parks and Rec commissioners Michael 

Lynch, Alex Wright and Pat Black and Chris Beth. Stars and stripes forever. Bottom row, from left: A member of the field crew readies the field for play. Councilman Jeff Gee, Ira 

and Beth pose at the new opening arches that welcome visitors and players. Retired Pastor Dennis Logie of the Seniors Softball League with Beth. 

AuTo 

Home 

LoANs LoANs 

San Mateo Credit Union’s On Broadway branch has it all. 

Auto loans? We’ve got ‘em. Home loans? We’ve got ‘em. In fact, whatever financial product or service you’re looking for, 

the On Broadway branch of San Mateo Credit Union (SMCU) stands ready to meet your needs. 

Visit us today at 830 Jefferson Avenue or call us at (650) 363-1725. 

(650) 363-1725 | smcu.org 


Dylan Kappeler: 

Riding and Jumping With Commitment, Injuries and a 3.7 GPA 

By Kathy Schrenk, Contributing Writer 

Dylan Kappeler was practically born on a motocross bike. His dad, David, 

and David’s dad were avid dirt bike racers. Like him, both of Dylan’s 

brothers were on dirt bikes when they still had their baby teeth, much to 

their mother’s chagrin. 

But Dylan has taken it to the next level. He 

has placed in the top three of every race he has 

ridden in the last year in his intermediate class in 

California and is looking to go pro. 

The 16-year-old Redwood City resident has 

chosen a tough sport, said his coach, Jeff Pestana. 

It requires a huge time commitment, as well as 

hefty financial backing. Even Dylan’s size — 

he’s a little over 6 feet tall — is working against 

him. Most racers are much smaller, Pestana said. 

“Being tall and big kind of hampers you,” he said. 

But if anyone can excel, it’s someone with Dylan’s 

passion and commitment — and powerful family 

support system. “He has talent. He can do it,” 

Pestana said. ”It’s just going to take a lot of dedication.” 

Last year Dylan qualified for the regional 

championship, but he broke his arm just weeks 

before the competition. It’s the kind of injury 

that often turns young racers off the sport, Santa 

Cruz–based Pestana said. 


It wasn’t Dylan’s first injury, by any means. He 

once broke both ankles at the same time on a jump 

that went wrong. He has had only one concussion 

but has been to the doctor a number of times as a 

precaution when it seemed as though he might. 

On a track with a dozen or more racers in a 

tight pack on a turn, where bikes can go as fast as 

50 mph, danger is inherent. His parents recognize 

that and take many precautions. His racing suit 

includes a full-face helmet, goggles, neck brace, 

chest protector, knee-high boots, knee braces and 

special gloves. 

This year Dylan will be allowed to attempt 

to get the professional designation, since the 

American Motorcyclist Association changed the 

minimum age from 18 to 17. He hopes to soon 

switch from a Honda bike to a Kawasaki, so he 

can get the company to provide him with gear and 

pay him $200 for every win. 

It’s Dylan’s dream to go pro, and it would also 

take some of the financial pressure off his father. 

The expense is significant, Dave said. Besides 

his three bikes, there’s the cost of the safety gear 

(special knee braces can cost $400 alone), the 

20-foot trailer for transporting the bikes to races 

around the state, plus maintenance. 

And it’s not easy to earn that money back in 

competitions, Pestana said. “I tell kids, you have 

to do this sport because you love it, because the 

money that comes back to you isn’t that much,” he 

said. “In Northern California, there’s maybe seven 

kids that make money at motocross,” he added. 

“It’s a tough, tough sport.” 

Between the expense of the sport and the 

worry of injury Dylan’s mother, Nadine, has 

to deal with, he wouldn’t be able to compete 

without his parents’ full support. It helps that he’s 

conscientious and a hard worker when it comes to 

schoolwork and practicing for races. 

Each of Nadine and Dave’s three children 

started racing motocross at a young age, but 

Dylan is the only one who stuck with it. Their 

oldest, Steven, 18, got injured and moved on to 

other interests. He now works for his dad in his 

home construction businesses. The youngest, 

Ryan, 12, stuck with it for a while before deciding 

basketball was more his speed. 

All three were riding with their dad when they 

were younger. “At one time I had them all on the 

track at once,” Nadine recalled, shaking her head. 

She worries about all her boys getting injured but 

supports Dylan’s passion for the sport. 

“It’s amazing how into it he is,” she said. “I just 

can’t take that away from him.” 

It’s a thrill and a rush, Dylan said. “I love it 

when I hit a turn right,” he said. The highlight, 

though, is a flying leap that ends in triumph 

instead of injury. “Good jumps are always fun,” 

he added. “It’s the showoff move.” 

Dylan and his dad spend every weekend driving 

to races all around California. That means lots of 

time in the truck towing the special trailer that 

holds Dylan’s bikes. He practices three times a 

week after school — last school year it was every 

day, when he got special permission to leave 

campus every day at 12:30. 

The intense schedule has its pluses and 

minuses. David enjoys the time he gets to spend 

with his son driving to competitions and seeing 

him race. And, through the years, Dylan has 

gotten to know the other boys in his age group 

and category. Though they compete fiercely 

against each other almost weekly, they’re all good 

friends, he said. “They’ve grown up together,” 

added his mother. And David has become friends 

with the other fathers as they’ve watched their 

boys grow in their racing. 

Dylan and his father are part of a trend in 

motocross that is boosting the sport’s popularity, 

even as the tough economic times put it out 

of reach for some families. Dylan is known as 

a “second-gener,” according to Pete terHorst, 

spokesman for the American Motorcyclist 

Association, because he’s one of many who 

were introduced to the sport by their parents. In

fact, pro rider Josh Hansen, who won the AMA 

Supercross Lites race at Anaheim in January, is 

the son of 1982 AMA Supercross Champ Donnie 

Hansen, terHorst said. (The AMA sanctions about 

3,000 amateur races a year, including the ones 

Dylan rides in.) 

Another trend in the sport is greater 

conditioning among the racers, said terHorst. 

Controlling his 225-pound bike is a full-body 

workout, Dylan said, so he does a lot of cardio and 

weight training. In fact, he works out at the gym 

every day he’s not racing. 

Nadine continues to be impressed with her 

middle son’s ability to juggle his intense racing 

and practice schedule with AP classes and time 

at the gym. Despite the demands of his sport, 

he manages to maintain a 3.7 GPA. In his junior 

year now, he hopes to attend a school in Southern 

California like UC Santa Barbara, in large part 

because there are more tracks and competitions in 

the southern part of the state. 

Education is important to the Kappelers. 

Many parents of racers cope with the demanding 

motocross lifestyle by home-schooling their sons. 

Nadine decided not to take that route. “You can’t 

go back to high school,” she said. 


Events Around Town 

SMCU Home Loan Center Grand Opening 

San Mateo Credit Union was pleased to put out the welcome mat at their new mortgage center, located at 619 Bradford St. in Redwood City. Celebrating with them: Mayor Jeff 

Ira helps cut the official chamber ribbon (top left). Planning Commissioner Ernie Schmidt wins a raffle prize (top right). Memo Morantes poses with friends (bottom 

left). Chamber members listen to a welcome speech (bottom center). A couple of SMCU employees enjoy the opening (bottom right). 

Finance Your New Home 

at Our New Home. 

San Mateo Credit Union is pleased to put out the 

welcome mat at our new Mortgage Center, located 

at 619 Bradford Street in Redwood City. 

Visit us today, or call our Real Estate Hotline at 

(650) 363-1799 for a real estate loan that offers 

all the comforts of home. 

(650) 363-1799 | smcu.Org 


In the New Year! – Shop Redwood City! 

Check out our Best of the Best selections below. Shouldn’t you make the commitment to 

shopping locally today and every day? When you are out shopping, dining or enjoying some 

entertainment, you will benefit because your sales tax dollars stay local and help us all. These 

businesses not only provide excellent service but also contribute to our community. 

Auto Care: 

Redwood General Tire – 1630 Broadway – Redwood General Tire was 

founded on the principles of good customer service and quality products 

at fair prices. Many satisfied customers have been with them since their 

founding. Whether you are looking for a new set of tires or need repair work 

on your vehicle, this Redwood City institution has been providing quality 

vehicle services since 1957. Gift certificates always available. 

Eating and Catering: 

Canyon Inn – 587 Canyon Road 

– “The Canyon Inn has had the 

same owner for over two decades 

and every year it just keeps getting 

better. They serve everything from 

their famous hamburgers to pizzas, 

all kinds of sandwiches and pastas, 

and they even have a South of the 

Border menu! There’s a Sunday 

breakfast buffet from 9 a.m. to 1 

p.m. with various sports on the big 

flat-screen TVs. Don’t forget to 

reserve their closed patio for your 

next party — it has heaters, fans and 

a big-screen TV (no extra charges). 

Why cook when you don’t have to? They 

do catering too for all occasions!” 

Deseo Tequila Lounge and 

Restaurant – 851 Main St. – “We 

went there and it was fabulous! We were impressed by their menu, and the 

burger I had was tasty. They have 21 big-screen TVs for viewing sporting 

events and more. It’s a wonderful place for watching your favorite sports 

team, having a drink with friends or dancing the night away.” 

Financial Institutions: 

San Mateo Credit Union – Three Redwood City locations – As a memberdriven 

organization, SMCU does everything possible to ensure that all of 

your financial priorities are anticipated and fulfilled. Offerings include free 

personal auto shopping assistance, members-only car sales, low-rate home 

loans and lines of credit. Call 650-363-1725 or 888-363-1725, or visit a branch 

to learn the advantages of membership banking. 

Home Improvements: 

Lewis Carpet Cleaners – 1-800-23-LEWIS – Founded in 1985, Lewis 

Carpet Cleaners has grown from one small, portable machine to a company 

of six employees and five working vans. The Lewis family works and lives in 

Redwood City and is committed to our community. Ask about their Spectrum 

special: Get 100 square feet of carpet cleaned for absolutely nothing. Call 

today! Get your home ready for entertaining during the year. 

Legal Services: 

Hannig Law Firm – 2991 El Camino Real – Hannig Law Firm LLP provides 

transactional and litigation expertise in a variety of areas. The professionals 

at HLF are committed to knowing and meeting their clients’ needs through 

long-term relationships and value-added services, and to supporting and 

participating in the communities where they live and work. 

Specialty Businesses: 

Business Profile of the Month 

Woodside Terrace 

485 Woodside Road, 650-366-3900 – Woodside Terrace 

provides a full range of choices for today’s seniors. They 

understand that choosing a senior living community represents 

a lifestyle choice and that residents are choosing much more 

than a comfortable living environment to call home. Brookdale 

Living’s Redwood City community delivers inspired independent 

living with the promise of exceptional experiences every day. 

The residents at Woodside Terrace can rest assured 

that as their needs change, they will be provided with a 

variety of ancillary services and a personalized assistedliving 

environment that respects individual preferences and 

encourages residents to continue to live as they please. 

Bizzarro’s Auto Auction – 2581 Spring St. – Frank Bizzarro’s unique 

business offers auto auctions, consignment vehicle sales, appraisal services 

and even ways to donate your vehicle to charities. If you are holding a 

fundraising event with a live auction, Frank and his staff are also a one-stop 

auction team with spotters, clerks, sample catalogs, bid numbers, etc. Call 

650-363-8055 and get details on all of their services. 

Davies Appliance – 1580 El Camino 

Real – “Davies helped me with my 

appliance purchases and they know 

what they are doing. All they carry is 

appliances; you don’t have to worry 

about anything else. Leave it to 

them to assist you with your kitchen 

remodel and you will be very happy. 

I recommend Davies to anyone who 

is interested in great pricing and even 

better service. The focus is appliances 

and service.” 

Every Woman Health Club – 611 

Jefferson Ave. – A women-only, bodypositive 

fitness center in downtown 

Redwood City. Services include 

classes, weight and cardio equipment, 

personal training, therapeutic 

massage and skin care. Flexible 

pricing, with several options available 

for members and nonmembers. 

There is not a better way to begin 

the New Year than by focusing on you. Exercising is one way to begin. Visit 

www.everywomanhealthclub.com or call 650-364-9194 to get started. Gift 

certificates are also available. 

Hector Flamenco Insurance (State Farm) – 151 Fifth Ave. – Hector has been 

in the insurance business and with State Farm for 20 years. He specializes 

in auto and business insurance. A local resident, he also provides servicio en 

español! Visit his website at www.hectorflamenco.com. 

Saf Keep Storage – 2480 Middlefield Road – The friendly and reliable team at 

Saf Keep is ready to assist you with a variety of storage products and services 

to suit all your storage needs. Visit their website at www.safkeepstorage.com 

to see exactly what products and services are available. Compare them to 

other facilities and you’ll see why their service makes the difference. 

Schoenstein Physical Therapy – 363A Main St., 650-599-9482 –The 

clinical approach of this independent, community-based physical therapy 

practice focuses on thorough physical therapy assessment, specific treatment 

strategies and patient education. Individualized treatment programs are 

designed to help meet patient goals of restoring function, returning to sport 

or occupation and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 

St. Regal Jewelers – 850 Main St. – Listen to what customers are saying 

about this fine downtown jewelry store. “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.” 

Whether you are looking for men’s or women’s fine quality jewelry, shopping 

local does not get better than this. 


News Briefs 

Man Hides Inside CVS, Robs Store After Closing 

Police are trying to identify a man who hid inside a Redwood City CVS 

pharmacy and robbed it at gunpoint as employees closed the store for the day. 

The robbery was reported at the CVS at 1301 Broadway. 

Employees were in the process of closing the store when a man wearing a 

black jacket and black cargo pants emerged and ordered them to the floor at 

gunpoint, police said. He then took an undisclosed amount of cash and ran away. 

The man is described as black, 6 feet to 6 feet 2 inches tall, weighing about 

220 pounds. 

Anyone with information on the robbery is asked to call Redwood City 

police at 650-780-7100. 

Runaway Burglar Gets Sentencing Date 

The convicted burglar who fled a Redwood City courthouse after the verdict 

to avoid being taken into custody will be sentenced in that case this month while 

facing new charges stemming from her eventual apprehension in a San Bruno attic. 

Jennifer Lynn Dickerson, 37, could receive more than two decades in 

prison as a second-striker when sentenced Feb. 23 on felony counts of 

residential burglary and car theft. 

Following that, she also faces time for allegedly jumping bail and, when 

caught by law enforcement, resisting arrest and possessing illegal drugs. The 

preliminary hearing for the former was Jan. 20 followed the next day with a 

hearing on the latter. 

Dickerson’s recent legal run-ins began after her October 2008 arrest by 

San Carlos police on suspicion of burglarizing a home and stealing both a 

1995 gold Lexus and a laptop computer. A handwritten note asking about 

the purchase of the car was left behind. The car was found two days later 

abandoned in a Daly City parking lot located across from where Dickerson 

was staying. A uniform for D&M Towing, the company that had fired 

Dickerson, was found inside. 

In November, a jury convicted Dickerson of the two felonies. During a court 

break following the verdicts, Dickerson fled the courthouse in Redwood City 

and remained at large until Jan. 5, when authorities found her hiding in a San 

Bruno attic. When she blocked the attic entrance and refused to come down, 

officers broke through a different section of the ceiling and arrested her. 

Rape of Vitamin Seller Brings 19 Years Prison 

A Redwood City man convicted of sexually assaulting a young woman whom 

he invited to his home to sell vitamins was sentenced to 19 years and four 

months in prison. 

Jurors deliberated two days in November before convicting Ricardo 

Zaragoza Mendez, 61, of the felonies forcible rape, forcible oral 

copulation, sexual penetration, assault with intent to commit rape and false 

imprisonment. He was also convicted of misdemeanor assault. 

Mendez reportedly attacked a 19-year-old woman he knew from an adult 

school months earlier. On May 28, the married woman went to Mendez’s 

home because he wanted to buy the Herbalife vitamins she sold. After 

discussing the items for sale, Mendez allegedly asked her to look at vitamins 

he already owned located in his bedroom. Once there, prosecutors say 

Mendez raped the woman until she was able to grab a flashlight and strike 

him several times in the head. 

The woman ran to a friend’s residence and contacted police. 

Mendez faced up to 30 years and eight months in prison. While the 

sentence was less than the maximum, it is still a sharp contrast to the six-year 

deal offered by the court and the 12-year term offered by prosecutors if he 

had pleaded no contest prior to trial. 

Mendez was also ordered to register as a sex offender, undergo HIV 

testing, pay restitution to the victim and reimburse the Redwood City Police 

Department $700 for the sex-assault exam. 

Pair Plead Not Guilty in Fatal Redwood City Shooting 

Two alleged teen gang members charged in the assault and fatal shooting of a 

21-year-old man in Redwood City pleaded not guilty to murder. 

Michael Elijah Rodriguez, 18, of Redwood City, and Mario Cazares, 17, 

of Palo Alto, appeared in court for the third time since being arrested. Both 

waived their right to a speedy trial. 

Each is charged with murder and a special gang enhancement that carries a 

life without parole term. Rodriguez is also charged with being a gang member 

using a gun because prosecutors believe he is the one who fired the weapon. 

Although Cazares is a minor, the District Attorney’s Office charged him as 

an adult in the death of Julio Pantoja Cuevas, 21. 

Cuevas was fatally shot several times just before 8 p.m. Nov. 28 at an 

apartment complex at 426 Madison Ave. He died at the scene. 

Cuevas, clad in a navy blue jacket with the letters “LA” on the back, was 

visiting three female friends at the complex when he allegedly exchanged words 

with a group of Norteños standing across the street. One person was on a bicycle. 

Authorities say one person began punching Cuevas before Rodriguez 

pulled the weapon and fired. Cuevas ran down an alleyway, where he died 

while the suspects fled. 

Although investigators believe five to eight people were involved in the 

crime, only Rodriguez and Cazares have been arrested so far. 

Rodriguez and Cazares are allegedly Norteños but Cuevas’ affiliation, if 

any, is unknown. 

Convicted Batterer Admits Stalking 

A three-time convicted batterer accused of beating his girlfriend severely 

and holding her hostage at knifepoint was sentenced to three years and eight 

months in prison on charges of felony assault and stalking. 

Ever Justin Quintanilla, 37, of Redwood City, pleaded no contest to the two 

charges in return for the term. He was also ordered not to contact the victim 

for 10 years and to pay her restitution in an amount to be determined. 

According to prosecutors, on Feb. 7, the victim allowed Quintanilla to 

spend the night at her San Mateo home despite a restraining order, but the 

following morning, he grew angry about the felony case on which he was due 

in court Feb. 9. 

Quintanilla allegedly threatened to kill the woman before leaving and 

returned later that evening, banging on windows and demanding to come 

inside. Quintanilla reportedly broke into the residence and beat the woman 

with his fists and a skateboard, breaking her leg and nose and bruising 

her body. The next morning, Quintanilla allegedly brought her food and 

apologized before leaving for his court appearance on charges of stalking, 

residential burglary and making felony threats on Oct. 1. The woman called a 

friend who in turn contacted police. 

At the time of the arrest, Quintanilla had three prior misdemeanor 

domestic violence convictions against other women. He also had a two-year 

prison term under his belt for a pair of felony and one misdemeanor drug 

count from 2000. 

Jail, Restitution for Thieving Teller 

A former Redwood City bank teller prosecutors say stole $33,000 from the 

account of a teenage girl whose deceased mother left her the money and 

$40,000 from her own elderly aunt must spend a year in jail and repay more 

than $73,000. 

Arcelia Barajas Aguilar, 28, pleaded no contest in August to grand theft 

and fiscal elder abuse. A judge capped the possible sentence at a year but 

agreed to consider lowering it if she was able to pay restitution. Last month, 

she received the maximum possible plus five years supervised probation and 

an order to pay the San Mateo Credit Union $73,700. 

Aguilar, who is free on a $25,000 bail bond, must surrender to the county 

jail Feb. 19 and has credit for one day. 

She stole her mother’s Social Security number to obtain a teller job with the 

San Mateo Credit Union in Redwood City, according to prosecutors. 

On June 2, 2009, she reportedly transferred $33,000 to her personal 

account from that of a 16-year-old girl whose mother left her the money. On 

July 3, she allegedly transferred $40,000 from her 74-year-old aunt’s account 

into her own. 

The fraudulent transfers were discovered during a bank audit. 

Aguilar spent all but $5,000 of the money, apparently on credit card debt, 

according to the District Attorney’s Office. 

(continues on page 27) 


Community Interest 

Kick-Off for Redwood City 

Fire Department’s 150th Anniversary 

This year brings a truly remarkable anniversary to Redwood City — it’s 

the sesquicentennial of the Redwood City Fire Department! To kick off the 

celebration of 150 years of dedicated public safety, the Fire Department held 

a news conference on Jan. 24 in front of Fire Station No. 9 in downtown 

Redwood City. Marshall Street was closed for a short period so that both 

historical and new firefighting apparatus could be parked on the street to 

represent this monumental occasion. 

At the news conference, Mayor Jeff Ira and Redwood City Fire Chief Jim 

Skinner officially kicked off the department’s sesquicentennial celebration, 

including a 150th-anniversary commemorative badge exchange for all city 

firefighters, an overview of the history of the department, an outline of 

upcoming community events to mark the anniversary and the opportunity 

to see some historical firefighting equipment that was in use throughout the 

history of this venerable fire department. 

As part of the sesquicentennial celebration, the Fire Department will be 

participating with historical equipment, photos, videos and more at many 

city events, including the Fourth of July parade and festival, Movies on the 

Square during the summer, family events on the Square and on Theatre 

Way, National Night Out in August, the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and the 

December Hometown Holidays. The community will be invited to buy tickets 

to and join firefighters at a very special Sesquicentennial Firefighters Ball to 

be held Aug. 13 at the historic Fox Theatre in downtown Redwood City. 

It was 1861 when the Redwood City Fire Department first came into 

being, six years before the city itself was even incorporated. America was 

in the midst of a civil war, Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated as President 

of the United States, it was the final year of the Pony Express mail service 

and the territories of Nevada and Colorado were created. Against that 

historic backdrop, the Redwood City Fire Company No. 1 was formed for 

the protection of the community, which at that time numbered less than 

2,000 people. The first Redwood City firehouse was built on Main Street in 

1862. Today the Redwood City Fire Department consists of five fire stations 

housing five engines and one truck, and currently has over 70 staff members 

including firefighters, firefighter/paramedics, captains and battalion chiefs, 

fire prevention staff, training staff and administrative staff, all in service of 

a core population of over 75,000 people and providing mutual aid to other 

communities nearby. 

The Redwood City Fire Department’s website is www.redwoodcity.org/fire. 

Redwood City Police Department Announces New Web 

Page for Crime Reporting 

Redwood City’s new online crime reporting tool not only makes it more 

convenient for community members to report nonemergency crimes, but also 

helps keep more police officers on the streets more of the time, protecting the 

life and property of the community they serve. A report can be made online 

if the following criteria are met: 

1. The crime occurred within the city limits of Redwood City. 

2. The suspect is unknown or cannot be described. 

3. The reported incident is not an emergency (for emergencies, dial 9-1-1). 

San Francisco Giants World Champions Trophy Tour 

The San Francisco Giants World Champions Trophy Tour is coming to our 

community! This means that you can get up close to the fabulous World 

Champions trophy, take pictures and be part of the Giants’ historic 2010 

championship run. 

The trophy will be on display at Courthouse Square on Wednesday, Feb. 

16, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. 

Fans will have the opportunity to view the trophy in person and have their 

photo taken with it on a first-come, first-served basis. The viewings are free 

to the public. Fans can purchase an official photo with the trophy through 

Giants Fan Photos, which will be available on-site. The Trophy Tour is 

presented by Visa. Toyota is the official vehicle of the Trophy Tour. 

Information on the entire World Champions Trophy Tour is online at 

sanfrancisco.giants.mlb.com/sf/fan_forum/trophy_tour.jsp. 

“I was going to say that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but we all 

know that this is the beginning of the Giants’ dynasty and we’ll have many 

future championships, right?” said Malcolm Smith, public communications 

manager for Redwood City. 

Community Interest: Youth-Oriented 

Kindergarten Pre-Registration Started Jan. 29 

Kindergarten registration for the Redwood City School District began on 

Saturday, Jan. 29, at assigned neighborhood schools. Parents may also choose 

to register their children anytime during the month of February, Monday 

through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at neighborhood schools (except Feb. 18 and 

Feb. 21, which are school holidays). Find your assigned neighborhood school 

by checking the district’s boundary book, available at www.rcsdk8.net/ 

boundaries, or by calling the Schools of Choice office at 650-423-2237. If you 

are planning to register your child to attend a school other than your assigned 

neighborhood school, you still need to register at your neighborhood school 

first. A list of documents needed to register your kindergartner is available 

at www.rcsdk8.net/kindergarten or at any school office. You may download 

and fill out the papers in advance to make the registration process go more 

quickly. Please bring four copies of the registration forms with you to 

registration. After you have registered your child, you may submit a Schools 

of Choice transfer application, available at www.rcsdk8.net/SchoolsOfChoice 

or at any school office. A full range of enrollment information is also 

available at www.rcsdk8.net/enrollment. 

The Redwood City Police Department announced that its new online 

reporting web pages are up and running, making reporting nonemergency 

crimes more convenient and expedient for community members. The online 

reporting application is located at www.redwoodcity.org/police and is 

available in both English and Spanish. 

With this new level of customer service, the public can report crimes such 

as hit-and-run, identity theft, vandalism, lost property, harassing phone calls 

and theft— or can offer a crime tip to the police (crime tips can be made 

anonymously, although it helps to have contact information in case the police 

need to follow up). 

District Introduces New Schools of Choice Information Booklet 

There are a number of community benefits to Redwood City’s new online 

reporting tool: Members of the public can file a report anytime, anywhere To help parents learn about their assigned neighborhood school and “schools 

with an Internet connection, and will not have to wait for an officer to 

of choice” options in the district, the Redwood City School District has 

be dispatched. Anyone filing an online report will receive an immediate updated and redesigned its Schools of Choice Information Booklet this year. 

temporary case number and will be able to print out a copy of the information Copies in black and white with a color cover are now available in each school 

submitted. Once the case has been reviewed by police staff, a permanent office and at the district Schools of Choice office. Although the district has 

Redwood City Police Department case number will be assigned and a copy reduced the cost of producing this booklet by about 75 percent over the last 

of the official report will be accessible via email free of charge. For hit-andrun, 

theft from a vehicle and vandalism, the online crime reporting tool can online or printing their own full-color version, available at www.rcsdk8.net/ 

few years, it is asking parents to consider viewing the full-color document 

accept up to two photos. And anyone using the online reporting system can enrollment, to help save on printing costs. 

be assured that all information collected is securely transferred to the city’s 

servers through an encrypted channel. (continues on page 27) 


KAINOS/PENINSULA SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB 

IRISH NIGHT 

AT THE VETERAN’S MEMORIAL BUILDING - 1455 MADISON AVENUE - REDWOOD CITY 

SATURDAY, MARCH 12TH 

TICKETS - $35 PER PERSON - 

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5:00 - HAPPY HOUR 

BEER & WINE 

SILENT AUCTION 

6:30 - LIVE AUCTION & 

TRADITIONAL IRISH DINNER 

(VEGETARIAN OPTION WITH ADVANCE NOTICE) 

50-50 DRAWING & MORE 

MAJOR EVENT UNDERWRITER 

SAN MATEO CREDIT UNION 

HOSTED BY THE PENINSULA SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB 

BENEFITING KAINOS HOME & TRAINING CENTER & OTHER LOCAL CHARITIES 

FOR TICKETS CALL KAINOS (650) 363-2423 


Every Woman’s 

Place for Fitness 

• Classes for all fitness levels 

• Personal training 

• Spa services 

• Friendly, helpful staff 

Free Personal 

Training Session 

with purchase of 

5- or 10-session package. 

Offer good for members and non-members. 

Offer expires 2/28/2011. 

VIP Pass 

5 days 

FREE! 

Simply bring in this 

coupon to get started. 

First-time visitors only. 

650-364-9194 611 Jefferson Ave., Redwood City, CA 94063 www.everywomanhealthclub.com 


Redwood City Couple’s Early Valentine’s Day Present: 

Natural Fraternal Quadruplets 

Photos courtesy of Packard Children’s Hospital. Left: Samantha Weng holds her recently born fraternal quadruplets at the Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto, where 

they were born Oct. 21. Clockwise from top center: the four sisters: Audrey, Emma, Natalie and Isabelle. 

Having a family is a natural progression for many 

couples, and that was the simple plan set out by 

Redwood City residents Samantha Weng and Wayne 

Wang shortly after they got married. 

The couple was excited to start a family with one little boy or girl. But at 

each ultrasound, there was an additional surprise. 

Fraternal quadruplets from natural conception are rare, occurring about 

once in 729,000 births, according to Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital in 

Palo Alto, where Audrey, Emma, Natalie and Isabelle were born Oct. 21. Weng 

and Wang welcomed their little girls after being married not quite a year. 

The parents are hoping to bring them all home before the original due date, 

Thursday, Jan. 27. 

“We thought we were having one, then ultrasounds showed two, then three 

and then we found out about four,” said Weng, whose family has no history of 

multiples. “We were shocked and then even more shocked. We were also very 

happy but a bit overwhelmed.” 

Wang, who works at Citibank, noted it became a joke with the family. By 

the time the fourth ultrasound came around, people had been commenting that 

there would be a fourth baby. In fact, there was. 

“We were like, no more ultrasounds,” he said. 

The girls, born at 26 weeks, were premature. They’ve since been in the 

hospital undergoing intensive care but should be ready to head home soon. 

Leaving the hospital means about 40 diaper changes a day for Wang and 

Weng. 

The couple wasn’t expecting such a large family so quickly. One of Weng’s 

eggs split into two embryos, creating identical twins Audrey and Emma. That 

raised the odds of such a birth to over one in a million. It’s not yet known if 

Natalie and Isabelle are identical to one another. If all four girls are identical, 

the odds would be one in 11 million or more. 

A unique pregnancy can be high-risk, and Weng’s was. Weng, an art director 

for a publishing company, was put on bed rest during weeks 17 to 23. She 

became an inpatient at Packard at that point until the babies were born in October. 

The little girls were born 14 weeks early. Each weighing less than two pounds, 

the preemies were taken to the neonatal intensive care unit, where doctors 

and nurses began working on the little ones’ respiratory and nutrition challenges. 

Fortunately, four cribs are set up at home waiting to be warm beds for 

each little girl when they are allowed to leave Packard. It was just a couple 

of weeks ago that the babies could be photographed together. Wang quickly 

snapped a photo and put it on Facebook. 

“They’re the five most important girls in my life,” he said. 

While four kids in one shot may turn some people off the topic of more 

children, Wang and Weng are keeping the option open. Wang explained this 

pregnancy wasn’t a traditional one. There wasn’t time for a baby shower or to 

slowly get the home ready. 

“We were focused on how do we make sure we keep these babies safe,” he said. 

Until then, the parents are looking forward to the challenge ahead. And 

Wang has nothing but praise and respect for his wife, who brought four 

beautiful little girls into his life. 

Packard delivered naturally conceived quadruplets to a San Mateo family 

in 2005, but those were three boys and one girl. 

Editor’s note: This article appeared first in the Daily Journal newspaper. 

Weng with obstetrician and high-risk pregnancy specialist Jane Chueh, MD, at Lucile 

Packard Children’s Hospital 



Meet Our Community-Minded Realtors for Redwood City 

Michelle Glaubert 

at Coldwell Banker 

650-722-1193 – Michelle has been a 

full-time, top-producing Realtor since 

1978. With a proven track record, she 

has helped buyers achieve their dreams 

of home ownership and sellers make 

successful moves to their next properties. 

The majority of her business is garnered 

through referrals from her many satisfied 

clients. Living in Emerald Hills, she 

knows the area well and is involved in 

the community. Count on Michelle’s 

years of experience to guide you through 

your next real estate transaction. Visit 

her online at www.glaubert.com. 

Buying or selling? 

Turn to one of these experts! 

Jim Massey 

at Keller Williams 

650-207-5120 – Jim has been 

active for over 30 years in business 

and leadership in Redwood City. 

With that involvement, he has 

become a Realtor familiar with our 

community, and his clients feel 

comfortable knowing he has that 

expertise and knowledge to guide 

them. Visit him online at 

www.jim-massey.com. 

John Nelson 

at Coldwell Banker 

John has been a resident of Redwood 

City for 21 years. He lives here with 

his wife, Robin, and children, Lilly 

and Max. They are active in the 

Woodside Plaza neighborhood and 

enjoy being involved in our community. 

John is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker and 

has been in the trade for 18 years. 

He is known for doing his clients’ leg 

work, keeping them up-to-date with 

new listings and conditions as they 

impact the market. He will make the 

process as pleasurable and stressfree 

an experience for you as he 

can. Let John guide you through the 

complexities of buying or selling 

your home, eliminating hassles and 

stress. www.johnnelsonhomes.com 


News Briefs (Continued from p20) Community Interest (Continued from p21) 

Man Shot Dead in Redwood City Apartment 

A man was shot in his Redwood City apartment and died later at Stanford 

Hospital in an incident that police are saying is neither a suicide nor gang related. 

Robert Florence, 30, was found by Redwood City police suffering multiple 

gunshot wounds at an apartment on Wayne Court in the southeast area of the 

city, according to police. 

Florence was transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead, 

according to police. Police responded to 126 Wayne Court East on a report of 

a man who had been shot inside his residence, according to police. 

“We do not believe it is a suicide,” said Redwood City police Capt. Ed Hernandez. 

No arrests were made in the shooting death of Florence and police have not 

released any suspect information. 

The homicide victim was no stranger to law enforcement. He was arrested 

in 1997 for felony assault and served time in prison. In 2005, he was arrested 

for drug sales and was arrested last month for driving under the influence of alcohol. 

“It is not gang related,” Hernandez said. “We are following up on leads and 

actively investigating the case.” 

The 911 call came from within the residence where Florence was found 

shot, Hernandez said. 

Florence, also known as Money Rob, was an entertainer and promoter who 

had a regular Internet radio talk show and was affiliated with several other 

local companies, including Cattinoff.com, Glam Chickz School and Freestyle 

Records, according to his MySpace and Facebook pages. 

Hours before his death, he was scheduled to host a discussion on 

“[deadbeat] dads and why they’re so many in the African-American 

community” on realtalk01 on Blog Talk Radio. 

Archives of his radio shows can be found on the Moneyrob’s Channel on YouTube. 

Florence was not employed at the time of his death, according to police. 

Police and county forensic investigators were still at the Wayne Court 

apartment complex more than 10 hours after the shooting was first called in. 

All three units of the complex were taped off by police. 

Anyone with information regarding this crime is encouraged to contact the 

Redwood City Police Department at 650-780-7100. 

Open Enrollment Begins in February 

The Redwood City School District offers a variety of options to parents of 

kindergarten through eighth-grade students. All schools provide students with 

a rigorous academic program based on a common instructional framework, 

but each school has its own unique emphasis, classroom approach and 

personality. The RCSD offers families a mix of neighborhood schools and 

“schools of choice” to meet the needs of our students. To learn more about the 

options in the Redwood City School District, please refer to the Schools of 

Choice Information Booklet, available at www.rcsdk8.net/enrollment. If you 

are enrolling students for the first time or would like to apply for your student 

to transfer to a different school, please be aware that the open application 

period will begin on Tuesday, Feb. 1, and end on Monday, Feb. 28. 

Please note that the application period for North Star Academy is slightly different. 

All students in the district are welcome to complete an application to attend 

North Star Academy starting Monday, Jan. 10. The application is available 

at the North Star office or can be downloaded from the North Star website, 

www.rcsdk8/nsa. The deadline for North Star applications is Feb. 25 by 3 p.m. 

Panthers AAU Basketball Club 

The Panthers will be holding tryouts for spring/summer teams. Please contact 

Coach Steven Diaz at coachsdiaz@gmail.com for additional information or 

go to www.eastbaypanthers.org. 

Peninsula Division tryouts will be held at Red Morton Center, 1120 

Roosevelt Ave., Redwood City, as follows: 

Feb. 20, 10–11 a.m. (4th, 5th, 6th grades) 

Feb. 20, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. (7th, 8th grades) 

Feb. 26, 2–3 p.m. (4th, 5th, 6th grades) 

Feb. 26, 3–4 p.m. (7th, 8th grades) 

March 13, 10–11 a.m. (4th, 5th, 6th grades) 

March 13, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. (7th, 8th grades) 

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As I Was Saying… (Continued from p6) 

to reduce expenditures before asking us to pay more. If the recent changes 

at City Hall — the retirement of City Manager Peter Ingram, the elimination 

of the deputy city manager position, two demotions in the Planning and 

Economic Development Department management, the hiring of a new 

economic development coordinator and now Cobarruviaz’s departure — are 

any indication, then the city will have a lot to inform us of in November. 

Going to be interesting to watch. 

.… 

While approving the downtown precise plan, the City Council agreed with 

the Planning Commission’s recommendation of decreasing the requirement 

of retail space downtown and allowing more space for offices (on the groundfloor 

level). 

In that spirit, the Red Lantern restaurant on Winslow just off Broadway 

filed for bankruptcy and vacated the building. It will now be office space for 

some company and very dark at nighttime. Just what we need, isn’t it? 

Now that the plan has been approved after years of trying to implement it, 

I guess we should stand behind it and help to support its success. After all, 

the general concept is good, but knowing that housing in the area is years 

away from completion, I for one worry about the small businesses that have 

invested in our community and their survival. 

.… 

The City Council recently named the area known as 49er Field to the Frank 

Guida–49er Field in honor of Guida’s more than 45 years of volunteer 

coaching of young people in Redwood City. In case you did not know Frank, 

he was a great guy and did so much for the youth in our community through 

the Junior 49ers Pop Warner program. 

At the conclusion of the presentation, Mayor Ira advised the audience that 

there would be no more naming of city fields, parks, etc., until a policy is in place 

for doing so. He then thanked Councilmember Barbara Pierce for heading the 

subcommittee that is supposed to be setting the policy but has not, even though 

they have been trying to do so for several years. Really, how difficult can it be? 

Because of Gov. Jerry Brown’s proactive action to decrease the number 

of state workers’ cell phones and the charges that go along with them, our 

county is looking at doing the same. Funny how all of a sudden these types of 

perks are looked at after one elected official has the nerve to do so. 

Anyway, the county recently reported that 695 county workers were given 

cell phones for a total of $570,512 in charges last year. That figure includes 

the additional charges from public works, probation and the county clerk’s 

office. An additional 275 employees were given wireless air cards for their 

laptops. We should all be so lucky. 

As you know, Brown also halted new-vehicle purchases by the state and 

ordered vehicles that are not essential for state business to be turned in. No 

word on what the county will do there. 

I bet you are wondering if the City of Redwood City will do the same? 

Considering that six of the seven council members just got iPads paid for by 

you and me, it does not seem likely they will do anything at all. The iPads 

cost about $600 each and were funded using capital improvement funds, 

which are set aside for equipment and projects. 

Regardless of whether they save money by cutting paper costs, these 

types of expenditures have to stop. If not for anything else, at least for the 

impression that we are all in this together. Make as many excuses as you 

want, but it is wrong. 

I’m just saying again. 

As I was saying… 

.… 

.… 

Advertise with The Spectrum 

Call Us Today 650.368.2434 


Insurance Tips: Cheap Car Insurance for Teens 

By Hector Flamenco, Special to The Spectrum 

Prom dresses. Football camp. School uniforms. Cell phone bills. Birthdays. 

Specifically, 16th birthdays. The upkeep of teenagers’ expenses can be financially 

disheartening. Fortunately, quality auto insurance is one purchase that parents 

can find in the bargain bin. Yes, it is possible to find cheap car insurance if 

the shopper is looking in the right places. Today’s consumer has many online 

options to find whatever he or she is looking for, including auto insurance, 

and can comparison shop with the click of a button. 

“But my son just turned 16. He’s still learning the rules of the road. Is it 

possible to find cheap insurance for my young, inexperienced driver?” 

Because young drivers are considered “at risk” drivers, you might think 

cheap insurance isn’t an option. If you know where to shop, however, you 

may find a perfectly reasonable price for auto insurance. There are several 

insurance comparison websites that allow you to quickly get an insurance 

quote — whether you’re looking for health, life, homeowners or auto 

coverage. In this case, there are a few things you might consider while 

shopping for auto insurance at a reduced rate: 

1 

While you’re on the lookout for your perfect policy, keep in mind that 

you can probably add your teenager to your auto insurance policy. This 

will be much cheaper than having your child purchase his or her own policy. 

3 

average, makes honor roll or is on the dean’s list, the student will be 

eligible for a discount. Companies base this reduction on the idea that 

good students are better drivers. 

Most importantly, let your teenager observe your good driving habits — 

they learn by example. If your teenager sees your seatbelt dangling next 

to the car door, you are giving him or her a reason to ignore it when he or 

she gets behind the wheel. 

While you are bargain hunting for auto insurance, remember to think about 

the price and the package. Do not strictly base your purchase on the price 

tag alone. You want your young driver covered in the event of an accident. 

It is important to know what you are paying for, and you want to be sure the 

policy contains all the coverage you want or need. Consider the amount of 

coverage you’re paying for. You will be financially responsible for your young 

driver’s wreck if the policy limit is too low — meaning you will have to pay 

for damages out of pocket. 

Regardless of where you purchase your insurance, keep in mind that there are 

licensed professionals to assist you in your search for reasonable insurance. 

You have endless opportunities to find cheap car insurance for your teenager 

if you take advantage of them. Happy hunting! 

2 

Encourage your child to do well in school. Many insurance companies 

will offer a good-student discount on auto insurance. Whether the student 

is in college or high school, often if he or she is making at least a B 

Editor’s note: This article is for general information only and is not a professional 

consultation. Always seek specific information from a licensed insurance professional. Hector 

Flamenco is an agent with State Farm Insurance. Visit his website at www.hectorflamenco.com. 

Senior Activities 

The following activities are open to the public at the Veterans 

Memorial Senior Center, 1455 Madison Ave., Redwood City. 

Friday Movies for Everyone 

Every Friday, 1:15 p.m. (unless otherwise announced) 

Come to the Veterans Memorial Senior Center in February for a free feature 

movie in our state-of-the-art movie theater! 

Feb. 4: “The American” 

Feb. 11: “Salt” 

Feb. 18: “The Town” 

Feb. 25: “Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps” 

to just have fun the old-fashioned way — let’s dance the night away! For more 

info or to make reservations, please call Christina Coronado at 650-780-7343. 

To learn more about the Veterans Memorial Senior Center, call 650-780- 

7270. Redwood City Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department 

provides recreational facilities and activities for all ages and interests, and 

supplies building and custodial services for city buildings. Redwood City 

Parks also operates the Veterans Memorial Senior Center and the Fair Oaks 

Community Center, providing social, educational and cultural activities, as 

well as information, referral and counseling services to persons living in 

Redwood City and neighboring communities. Redwood City Parks is more 

than you think! Its website is located at www.redwoodcity.org/parks. 

Tax Preparation Appointments (Sponsored by AARP) 

AARP is providing free tax preparation at the VMSC by appointment only. 

Appointments will be held Wednesdays, Feb. 9 through April 13, from 9 a.m. 

to 3 p.m. Call 650-489-6023 to make your appointment. Appointments can 

be made only by calling this number. 

2nd Annual Hot Rod Bunko Event 

Feb. 12, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. 

Event includes Bunko, luncheon, a silent auction and raffle drawings. Kick 

back and spend the afternoon with great people having a great time for a 

great cause. This fun event will benefit the Redwood City Special Needs 

program (formerly the San Carlos Special Needs Program). Please contact 

Chuck or Anne at acamil1462@sbcglobal.net or call 650-568-0565 for tickets 

and information. Event will be held at 975 Industrial Road, Suite 1, San Carlos. 

Redwood City Special Needs Program Valentine’s Dance 

Feb. 18, 7–9 p.m. 

The Special Needs Program, a program designed for those with differing abilities, 

is holding a Valentine’s Day dance to celebrate friendships old and new, and 


A Minute With: Karen Chew 

Karen Chew was born in San Mateo. She attended local grammar and junior high schools and graduated from 

Hillsdale High School, class of 1977. 

After graduation she went to UC Berkeley, where she majored in environmental design/architecture with a visual 

design minor. While there, she loved taking classes and workshops in book arts and art. She also took printmaking 

and green design classes at Foothill College in Mountain View. 

Karen has been in the construction industry “since Stonehenge,” working as a design associate at Robert Lyon Associates 

and in our fair city as a building inspector and code enforcement officer. After leaving her job in Redwood City, she jumped 

into her own business, offering services as a building designer and lecturer through the Community Education 

program at College of San Mateo. She is also a Green Point Rater and spends time helping Mike G. at CollabWorks. 

Karen is single but says about marriage: “It could happen in this lifetime.” She enjoys spending time with “my 

friends’ kids, any of Miss Dragan’s kids. I’ll be thrilled with grandchildren.” 

Karen is a San Mateo County Arts Commissioner, a member of Bay Area Book Artists and G.R.O.W., and a drive-by 

PAL helper. 

Her hobbies include mail (not male) art, test-driving recipes, and anything else artsy-fartsy. 

Do you have a favorite piece of art in Redwood City? 

Whatever’s showing in the Caldwell and 

Community galleries. We’ve got great local art 

and artists here! 

Cultural arts in Redwood City are? 

Super important to support. 

Redwood City is? 

Ditto. 

Whom do you most admire? 

Mom and Dad, and people who strive to be their 

authentic self. 

What talent would you most like to have? 

Mediation skills, including Corinne’s knack of 

asking great questions, and making peace with 

my three iron. 

Something few know about you? 

That I’m learning everything I can about Life 

Between Lives and sacred geometry right now. 

What phrase do you most overuse? 

Too many four- and six-letter words. 

Favorite song? 

“Que No Hay” by Bosé, “Blanket on the Beach” 

by Stanley Turrentine, Tower of Power, torch 

songs by Luis Miguel and Andrea Bocelli, Italian 

operas — into the 1960s stuff now. 

Favorite movie? 

Just about any Cinderella movie where the good 

guy wins and doesn’t get killed off. 

What is your motto? 

Get the lesson so you don’t have to come back again. 

Anyone you got on your mind? 

All of the terrific “dog people” that I meet on 

my walks and my friends at Redwood City 

and County — I just want to tell them that I’m 

thinking about all of them and to hang in there. 

Better times await, in many shapes and forms. 

Memorable moment? 

Sliding down the pole at Station 9 for the first 

time, ride-alongs, playing Santa at the Toy and 

Book Drive, doing improv comedy with Terry 

Sands and the Red Herrings. 

First word that comes to mind? 

Seeking. 

You still can’t believe? 

The 2010 SF Giants season — what a ride. 

You currently feel? 

That I need a few more lifetimes. 

You are inspired by? 

Futurethinkers, artistic process, great teachers. 

What or who is the love of your life? 

My sweetheart, my friends and family, my 

animals, all things chocolate. 

When you die you want to come back as? 

Karen 2.0, with vast improvements. 

If you’re happy and you know it? 

Clap your hands. OK, then share the love.

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