Barry Jolette - The Spectrum Magazine - Redwood City's Monthly ...

A Little Nerdy 

Ontiveros Named 

YOUTH 

of the 

YEAR 

County 

Courthouse 

Turns 

GIVING TIME 

& 

TIME AGAIN 

Barry 

Jolette 

He is an 

Gem 

Absolute 

1 

As I 

Was 

Saying…

A Solution To Regional 

Traffic Congestion? 

Two Million workers commute into San Francisco 

and San Mateo Counties every week to local jobs. They 

commute from Santa Rosa, Fairfield, Stockton, Livermore, 

Gilroy and even Salinas – because there isn’t enough local 

housing to accommodate them. 

The traffic caused by these long distance commuters is the 

main reason why our freeways and bridges are so badly 

congested. These commuters are also the number one cause 

of air pollution and greenhouse gases in our region. 

Redevelop This Industrial Site — Put Workers Near Jobs 

Redwood City is now exploring whether to redevelop the 

more than 1,400-acre Redwood City Industrial Saltworks 

site to permit up to 12,000 new homes to help get long 

distance commuters off our freeways and bridges. 

This large site presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity 

to make major progress toward solving regional problems. 

That’s why many major employers in the region are 

supporting this smart growth, transit-oriented plan. 

we can reduce regional traffic, reduce air pollution, 

and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by building new 

housing that will allow workers to live nearer to their 

jobs. Isn’t this a solution worth considering? 

You can read more about the Redwood City industrial Saltworks smart growth, transit-oriented plan by 

going to www.RCSaltworks.com. Email us at info@RCSaltworks.com or call us at 650-366-0500. 

Redwood City 

Saltworks 

Sponsored by DMB Saltworks, LLC 

Follow Saltworks on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. 

Spectrum_Ad_2_18_10.indd 1 

www.SpectrumMagazine.net 

2/18/10 6:04:15 PM

The Spectrum.MAR.2010 

Steve Penna 

Owner and Publisher 

penna@spectrummagazine.net 

Anne Callery 

Copy Editor 

writers@spectrummagazine.net 

Judy Buchan 

Contributing Writer 


Nicole Minieri 

Contributing Writer 


James Massey 

Graphic Designer 

James R. Kaspar 

Cover/Cover Story Photography 

jkaspar@sonic.net 

Valerie Harris 

Internet Maintenance 

Contact Information: 

Phone 650-368-2434 

E-mail addresses listed above 

www.spectrummagazine.net 

Welcome to the March 2010 edition of The Spectrum Magazine. This month we have a little bit of 

everything. So sit back on the train or at the gym, restaurant or community center, at work or at home, 

and enjoy our community news! 

This month’s cover subject is the first to not be a current resident of Redwood City. Why was Barry 

Jolette chosen to break that barrier? Contributing writer Nicole Minieri will tell why he is considered a 

true “Redwood Citian.” He is someone we can all be proud to have in our community. 

Publisher Steve Penna touches on the subjects of this November’s election and the list of “boring” 

candidates, a letter from our county manager and notes from events and parties around town in his 

column, “As I Was Saying….” 

We also have stories on a Redwood City teen who was named Youth of the Year, the beginning of a 

celebration for the county courthouse’s 100th birthday and an open letter from Redwood City School 

District Superintendent Jan Christensen. 

Along with all that, we bring you our regular features on community interest, senior activities, 

information from the Redwood City School District, parties around town, news briefs, cultural and 

entertainment events and the popular feature “A Minute With.” We also have a new advice column from 

Russ Castle about insurance topics. We would like to thank David Amann for providing our financial 

advice column for many years, and we expect it will show up again in the future. 

We encourage you 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 or beverages, so please 

take the time to look over their ads this month and use their coupons and discounts. When you visit 

them, let them know you appreciate their support of our local community publication. 

We thank our readers for making The Spectrum the most-read publication of our community. We invite you 

to visit our Web site at www.spectrummagazine.net for up-to-the-day information on our community. 

Contents 

This Month’s Photo Shoot – 4 

RCSD Corner – 5 

“As I Was Saying...” – 6 

Celebration Begins 

As Courthouse Hits 100 – 9 

Cultural Events – 11 

Nonprofits in Action – 12 

The People Speak: Letters to the Editor – 13 

Redwood City’s Blessing: 

May the Luck of Jolette Enfold You! – 18 

Community Interest – 21 

Shop Redwood City – 23 

News Briefs – 24 

Budget Crisis Puts 

Local Academic Gains at Risk – 26 

Ontiveros Named ‘Youth of the Year’ – 28 

Meet Our Community-Minded 

Realtors of Redwood City – 30 

Fundraiser to Keep ‘Danny G’ Dancing – 31 

Mayor Ira Is ‘Tapping’ Us to Be 

Code Enforcement Volunteers – 31 

Insurance Tips: 

Checking With Your HR Department – 33 

Senior Activities – 33 

A Minute With Gino Gasparini – 34 

The Spectrum 3

Inside The Spectrum: Cover Story Photo Shoot 

This month’s cover shoot was arranged by publisher 

Steve Penna through e-mail correspondence with 

Connie Paniagua, who is an assistant to our cover 

subject, Barry Jolette. The time that worked for 

everyone was Wednesday, Feb. 17, at 2 p.m. at the 

corporate headquarters of San Mateo Credit Union at 

350 Convention Way. 

Cover story photographer James Kaspar arrived first and waited in the 

parking lot for Penna. He began taking shots of the front of the building as 

Penna arrived, then both checked in with the front lobby receptionist. 

Paniagua welcomed them in the bottom-floor lobby and brought them up 

to the administrative offices where they were greeted by Jolette. Because 

they are involved with some of the same nonprofit groups, Penna has known 

Jolette for several years, so they instantly felt comfortable and exchanged 

jokes. Kaspar soon joined in the fun. 

The entire shoot was very lighthearted and a complete joy, with all sharing 

several laughs. Stephen Tabler, vice president of marketing, joined the group 

and added to the camaraderie. They continued to shoot in Jolette’s office, and 

that is where the props were staged for the cover photo. 

After the session in Jolette’s office was over and goodbyes had been said, 

Penna and Kaspar spent a few moments with Tabler discussing SMCU’s 

history, since Kaspar has been a member for approximately 35 years. The 

entire shoot took about 30 minutes. 

When The Spectrum goes through the process of choosing a cover subject, 

we do so recognizing that the person or business must epitomize Redwood City. 

Although Jolette does not live in Redwood City, he and San Mateo Credit 

Union could not be more a part of our community. We are proud to tell 

their story and how much they do. We salute their contributions and the 

differences they make in so many residents’ lives. 

For great fun and bargains join us at 

Casa de Redwood’s 

7th Annual Fashion Show & Luncheon 

“Goodwill Hunting” 

Featuring Women’s Fashions 

and 

Benefiting Casa de Redwood, a 

affordable senior housing Project 

SATURDAY, APRIL 3, 2010 

CASA DE REDWOOD 

7th Floor Penthouse 

1280 VETERANS BLVD 

REDWOOD CITY, CA 

11:30-2:00 

Luncheon served at noon 

TICKETS: $20 

FOR LUNCHEON RESERVATIONS OR 

SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES 

Please call Ginny Hughes (650) 594-0783 or 

Marie Amaya (650) 369-7332 or Helen Cocco (650) 368-7062 

Opportunity drawing tickets: $5 each or 5 for $20 

Grand Prize: Purse with $150 cash 

Plus many other great prizes 

www.SpectrumMagazine.net

RCSD Corner: News From the Redwood City School District 

A Community That Cares About Its Schools 

Redwood City students sing thanks to RCEF’s Music for Learning program 

Like most public school districts in California, 

the Redwood City School District is facing an 

unprecedented budget crisis this year. Many positions 

and programs were cut last year, and the district 

expects to make deeper cuts for 2010–11. The 

situation is dismal, but there is one bright spot: 

the Redwood City Education Foundation (RCEF), 

the only all-volunteer, nonprofit organization 

that raises money for districtwide programs that 

enrich education for our local students. 

For the past 25 years the RCEF has reached out 

to the community to raise money that provides 

critical programs no longer funded by the state. 

Programs made possible by the RCEF include: 

Music for Learning 

With partial support from the city’s Civic Cultural 

Commission, the RCEF brings trained music 

educators from Music for Minors to all students 

in second through fourth 

grade. Students acquire a core 

body of knowledge and skill 

appropriate for their grade 

while singing and playing 

percussion instruments and 

recorders. 

Physical Education in the 

Classroom 

The RCEF worked with the 

district’s Wellness Committee 

and its partners to develop 

the FitFun Program for 

Better Learning. At its 

center is the FitFun Game 

Guide, filled with enjoyable, 

energetic physical activities 

that teachers can use in the 

classroom to keep students active, help them 

concentrate better, and develop exercise habits 

that last a lifetime. 

SMART Grants 

In partnership with Oracle Corp. and the Westly 

Foundation, the RCEF brings innovation into the 

classroom through its SMART grants for science, 

math, technology, literacy and the arts. Individual 

schools apply for grants to pay for a program or 

need at their school. For example, fourth-grade 

students may “work” as marine scientists “in the 

field” for an afternoon with the Marine Science 

Institute, making firsthand discoveries about 

shore animals and their habitats. A school’s 

computer lab may be equipped with interactive 

whiteboards that allow teachers to access and 

control classroom technology from the front of 

the room. 

Key to Excellence in Education: 

Greater Community Support 

“Student achievement has risen dramatically 

in our local schools in the last few years,” says 

Jo-Ann Sockolov, president of the RCEF. “State 

education funding, however, is at an all-time low. 

Our kids need our help more than ever before.” 

Unlike nearby districts, which are funded 

primarily by property tax revenue and 

supplemented by local parcel taxes and donations, 

the Redwood City School District relies almost 

exclusively on state and federal funding. As a result, 

up to $8,000 more per student per year is spent on 

students in neighboring districts than in Redwood 

City. Volunteers from the RCEF are working hard 

to increase the level of local donations to our 

schools. Last year the RCEF raised about $300,000, 

approximately $34 per student, still considerably 

less than the amount raised by neighboring 

foundations, which average about $425 per student. 

On April 30, the RCEF hosts its major fundraising 

event of the year, Benefit for a Brighter Future. 

Pacific Shores Center has donated its facility at 

1100 Seaport Blvd., and Google and Wells Fargo 

have signed on as sponsors. All members of the 

community are invited to attend. Tickets are $75 

until April 9 and $90 thereafter. 

“This benefit is a golden opportunity for 

individuals, small businesses, corporations and 

foundations to commit to being a ‘can-do, willdo, 

make-it-happen’ force that helps to build 

a brighter future for our kids,” says Sockolov. 

“Despite the enormous budget challenges our 

district faces, every contribution does make a 

difference, and we hope the community will give 

what they can to keep our schools strong.” 

To learn more about the event, visit www.rcef. 

org/brighterfuture/. 


As I Was 

Saying… 

Publisher | Steve Penna 

I know I made some comments last month about 

the “beautification” project on El Camino Real 

between Broadway and Brewster, but let me just 

say: This is a clear example of government at its 

worst. Disrupting traffic, practically eliminating 

foot traffic, decreasing business and sales tax 

revenues and lessening people’s personal incomes 

all for the sake of making elected officials feel 

good about making our “gateway” look beautiful. 

I don’t know about you, but I feel so much 

compassion for those businesses affected and 

losing so much income. It is just so wrong! You 

would think that maybe some government entity 

would try to help those businesses with financial 

compensation or provide some advertising or 

marketing dollars to encourage us all to use those 

businesses during this difficult time. But they 

don’t, so I will. 

I will admit that I do not frequent any of those 

businesses on a regular basis and sure do not want 

to take any dollars out of the pockets of other 

businesses in our community, but let’s all of us 

— yes, including you — try to use one of those 

businesses during the next month to show them 

our support and encouragement and that we hope 

they can financially survive this “beautification” 

and still be around when it is through. Times are 

hard enough right now for all businesses without 

having to deal with this “beautification” project 

and the negative effects. 

Once the “beautification” is complete, you will 

see a great big celebration with elected officials 

and others involved patting each other on the 

back. Let’s just hope it is not in front of any more 

empty storefronts. 

.… 

Here is a brief update on the races that will 

affect Redwood City voters in this June’s and 

November’s elections. 

The race to fill Ira Ruskin’s 21st District state 

Assembly seat will have newcomer Josh Becker 

facing off against political veterans Palo Alto 

Councilwoman Yoriko Kishimoto and San Mateo 

County Supervisor Rich Gordon. This will be a 

great race to watch if Becker runs the campaign 

he needs to as the outsider and newcomer. Voters 

are rightfully eating that up right now. 

The race to fill Gordon’s county supervisor seat 

will see at least five candidates: former County 

Sheriff Don Horsley, San Carlos Councilman 

Matt Grocott, Sequoia Healthcare District 


Trustee Jack Hickey and activists Michael 

Stogner and April Vargas. If no one receives 

more than 50 percent of the vote in the June 

primary, a runoff of the top two candidates will 

be held in November. Another good race. 

The race to replace retiring county Tax 

Collector/Treasurer Lee Buffington could 

potentially be a good one with Richard Guilbault 

(president of Guilbault Asset Management), 

Deputy Treasurer/Tax Collector Sandie Arnott, 

former Burlingame Mayor Joe Galligan and 

Dave Mandelkern, vice president of the San 

Mateo County Community College District, 

all announcing their campaigns for the June 8 

election. Sparks are already flying in this race and 

we haven’t even really begun. 

When County Clerk/Assessor Warren Slocum 

announced that he would retire instead of running 

for re-election, current County Supervisor 

Mark Church did what every office-hopping 

politician should do and declared he is running to 

replace him. Who cares if he will cost the county 

hundreds of thousands of dollars to hold a special 

election to then replace him? So far there is no 

competition against him. Former Redwood City 

Mayor Ira Ruskin was rumored to be a potential 

candidate, but that is highly unlikely considering 

he has his eyes on a Senate seat. Can you say 

boring? I am not talking about the race; I am 

talking about the candidate. 

Stacie Nevares, a former office assistant in the 

San Mateo County Coroner’s Office, declared 

she will seek to unseat her former boss, Coroner 

Robert Foucrault, in the June election. Talk 

about a candidate who literally knows “where the 

bodies are buried.” 

It looks like Chief Deputy District Attorney 

Steve Wagstaffe will have no competition 

to fill his boss Jim Fox’s seat. Only in San 

Mateo County could a high office like that go 

uncontested when most likely there will not be 

another chance of doing so for some 16 years. 

It looks like County Sheriff Greg Munks will 

skate through to another four years in office, as no 

one is showing any real interest in taking him on. 

Several important Superior Court judge seats 

are also up, but, as expected, no one seems to be 

willing to step up and make a challenge. 

I have a lot of candid comments and insights 

into several of these races and can’t wait to share 

them with you once the candidates have all 

qualified and started campaigning. 

.… 

The San Mateo County Community College 

District is considering placing a $34 annual parcel 

tax before voters on the June ballot. If they do, 

the board of trustees will have to hold a public 

hearing, and if they do that, it will be on March 

10. I don’t care what any consultant or board 

member says, if this goes before voters in June, it 

will fail! The district should look at making some 

across-the-board administrative salary cuts before 

coming back to taxpayers again and again. 

.… 

The recent retirement celebration to honor 

Corinne Centeno was a fantastic event attended 

by a who’s who of politicos, citizens and city 

staff. In attendance were council members Ian 

Bain, Jeff Gee, Barbara Pierce and John 

Seybert; former Mayors Dick Claire and Georgi 

LaBerge; Diane Howard; County Supervisor 

Rich Gordon; City Manager Peter Ingram and 

former City Manager Ed Everett; Police Chief 

Lou Cobarruviaz and former Chief Carlos 

Bolanos; Fire Chief Jim Skinner; city staff 

members Bob Bell, Chris Beth, Arnella Bibbs, 

Chris Cesena, Chu Chang, Karen Chew, 

Teri Chin, Jill Ekas, Ed Hernandez, Debbie 

Jones-Thomas, Jane Light, Mike Lynch, Ron 

Matuszak, Denise Monroe, Brian Ponty, Beth 

Ross, Bruce Utecht, Pat Webb, Susan Wheeler 

and Lucas Wilder; community leaders Warren 

Dale, Maria Diaz-Slocum, Pete and Ginny 

Hughes, Bonnie Miller, Erin Niemeyer, Tamara 

Piulle, Bob Slusser, Susan Swope, Paula Uccelli, 

Donna Vaillancourt, Shawn White, and Alex 

and Cherlene Wright. 

It was a great event and a great send-off for 

an employee and resident who has been such a 

hardworking part of our community. I have a hunch 

we have not heard the last of her. Best of luck! 

.… 

San Mateo County Manager David S. Boesch 

recently wrote “an open letter to the San Mateo 

County community” to several newspapers and 

media outlets. I still do not understand why he 

wrote the letter, but let’s just go with it as a gesture 

from the county to our community about giving. 

In his letter he stated that “This past year has 

been a difficult one for many. Unemployment is 

(continued on page 32)

Get the red carpet treatment 

Everything you need is here at On Broadway. A full-service branch featuring friendly 

knowledgeable staff. Validated parking. Convenient late hours and we’re open on Saturdays, too! 

Come see what all the fuss is about. 

Get a Free Movie Ticket! 

When you open your membership at the On Broadway Branch. 

Broadway St. 

Theatre 

District 

Jefferson Ave. 

your local hero 

When you refer a friend or family member to SMCU, 

20 lunches will be donated to the Second Harvest 

Food Bank of San Mateo Co. 

on broadway • 830 Jefferson Ave • (650) 363-1725 • SMCU.ORG 

Offer valid while supplies last. You are eligible for membership in SMCU if you live, work, worship, or study in San Mateo County. A one-time, non-refundable membership fee of $10.00 

($1.00 for age 17 and under) is required to join. Federally insured by NCUA. When a referral is made for a new membership and account opening is verified, SMCU will make a contribution 

to the Second Harvest Food Bank of San Mateo County within 60 days of account opening. Must complete referral card. See branch for details. 

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Offer expires 3/31/2010 

VIP Pass 

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



Celebration Begins As Courthouse Hits 100 

The historic San Mateo County Courthouse hits 

the century mark this summer and, to celebrate, 

the San Mateo County Historical Association 

recently kicked off a slate of activities to honor 

the grand building. 

The courthouse — recently renovated and 

known for its beautiful stained-glass dome — 

houses the historical museum and is even used for 

courtroom settings in films. 

The building and its adjacent Courthouse 

Square plaza form the grand centerpiece of 

downtown Redwood City, and the association 

estimates tens of thousands of people enjoy it 

annually. 

The courthouse building first opened with a 

grand celebration July 4, 1910. The historical 

association began calling it home a decade ago. 

The celebration kickoff on Jan. 28 included 

costumed characters from the Strange Case of 

Constance Flood. On Feb. 6, the Boy Scouting 

exhibit was opened, commemorating 100 years 

of both the courthouse and the Boy Scouts. 

Remaining events include: 

Saturday, March 6, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.: A 

children’s craft program featuring the courthouse 

building and its architecture. 

Saturday, April 24, at 1 p.m.: Children’s 

Edwardian Tea Party, a lesson on etiquette of the 

1910s. 

Sunday, May 16, from noon to 5 p.m.: Free 

admission day for Honoring Our Heritage: 

Immigrants Day Festival. The traditional 

celebration honors the cultures that have made 

San Mateo County their home. Plus, a special 

salute to the courthouse as a symbol of American 

citizenship. 

Sunday, June 6, at 2 p.m.: The San Mateo 

County Historical Association’s Annual Meeting 

for members. An in-depth presentation on the 

construction of the courthouse will be featured. 

Friday, June 25: Special release of publication 

La Peninsula, dedicated to the courthouse and 

featuring articles by those who have worked in the 

building, including former U.S. Supreme Court 

Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. 

Sunday, July 4: Special presentations during 

the Redwood City parade and opening of the 

exhibit “If These Walls Could Talk.” Participation 

by organizations that originally celebrated 

the courthouse’s opening in 1910 and family 

activities, including Fourth of July crafts with 

hand-churned ice cream and distribution of a free 

32-page activity book for children. 

Sunday, Sept. 12, from noon to 4 p.m.: 

Victorian Days at the courthouse with a special 

reenactment of the Strange Case of Constance 

Flood, which actually took place in Courtroom A 

in 1931. 

For more information visit www.historysmc.org. 

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

newspaper. 

In period costume, Diane Rummel prepares the 

Courthouse Centennial Celebration cake inside the San 

Mateo County History Museum. The museum’s 100thyear 

celebration will continue throughout the year with 

events and new exhibits for children and adults. 


SAN MATEO HARLEY OWNERS GROUP 

6TH ANNUAL PAL POKER RIDE 

Benifiting Youth of San Mateo County 

Saturday, May 8th, 2010 

Date: May 8th, 2010 

BBQ: At Sparky’s Hot Rod Garage 

975 Industrial Way Suite B 

Registration: 8:30-9:45am San Carlos, Ca 94070 

Coffee/Donuts 

Early Registration (Prior to April 23rd) 

Location: Peninsula Harley 

$25 per motorcycle-$30 with rider 

380 Convention Way Registration after 4/23-Day of Ride 

Redwood City, Ca 94063 

$30 per motorcycle-$35 with rider 

1 ride patch, T-Shirt, raffle ticket per bike 

Ride Out: 10am Sharp 

(First 250 Riders) 

Name 

Address 

Email Address 

2nd Rider’s Name 

Phone Number 


Cultural Events 

‘Curtains’ 

Woodside High School 

Performing Arts Center 

March 5, 6, 12 and 13 at 8 p.m. 

March 7 at 2 p.m. 

Tickets available at the door or at 

650-367-9750, ext. 4851 

Adults $20, seniors $15, students $10 

The Woodside High School Performing Arts 

Department is very excited to present the 

Peninsula premiere of the great big musical 

comedy whodunit “Curtains.” This Tony Award– 

honored original musical comedy has music and 

lyrics by Broadway legends John Kander and Fred 

Ebb (creators of “Chicago” and “Cabaret”) and 

book and additional lyrics by Rupert Holmes. 

“Curtains” is a send-up of backstage murder 

mystery plots. Set in 1959 Boston, the musical 

follows the fallout when the supremely untalented 

star of “Robbin’ Hood of the Old West” is 

murdered during her opening night curtain call. 

Can a police detective who moonlights as a 

musical theater fan save the show, solve the case 

and maybe even find love without getting himself 

killed? Come find out! 

Angelica’s Bistro 

863 Main St. 

Downtown Redwood City 

650-365-3226 

Jazz Jam 

Every Wednesday, 7 p.m. 

Free 

Hosted by Ken Elmore Jazz Quartet 

Great jamming session with Ken Elmore, Dave 

Weitzman, Fred Paclibon and Alan Harris. Just 

bring your instrument and jam. Many of the 

musicians who have performed in the past have 

ended up playing at the Bell Theatre Room. 

Blues Jam 

Every Thursday, 7 p.m. 

Free 

George Schoenstein has put together an incredible 

jamming session. Besides being a great time, 

the Blues Jam is also a great opportunity for the 

musicians to become recognized. Many of the 

musicians who have performed in the past have 

ended up playing at Angelica’s Bell Theatre 

Room. Thank you to George Schoenstein for 

bringing great blues bands to Redwood City. 

Senior Live Karaoke 

First and third Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Free 

This is a special event we are doing for our seniors. 

Come and sing along. Maddaline plays your favorite 

old-time songs on the piano! Call for details. 

Deseo Tequila Lounge and Restaurant 

851 Main St. 

Downtown Redwood City 

650-366-1333 

Salsa Dancing 

Every Wednesday 

Free 

Live music and salsa dancing. 

Songwriters Showcase Live 

Every Thursday beginning at 9 p.m. 

Free 

DJ plays until 1 a.m. Come enjoy dining, 

entertainment and dancing with family and friends. 

DJ Begins Spinning at 9 p.m. 

Every Friday and Saturday 

Free 

Happy Hour 4–7 p.m. Drink specials and free 

chips and salsa. 

San Mateo County History Museum 

2200 Broadway St. 

Redwood City 

650-299-0104 

www.historysmc.org 

Tue–Sun, 10–4 

$2–$4; free for children 5 and under 

The History Museum is housed inside the historic 

1910 County Courthouse. Over 50,000 people 

visit the museum each year, and the number of 

local residents who hold memberships is growing. 

The History Museum teaches approximately 

14,000 children each year through the on- and 

off-site programs. The museum houses the 

research library and archives that currently hold 

over 100,000 photographs, prints, books and 

documents collected by the San Mateo County 

Historical Association. 

Ongoing Exhibits 

The Great Rotunda. The stained-glass dome 

of the rotunda, thought to be the largest in a 

Pacific Coast public building, is the architectural 

highlight of the museum building. 

Courtroom A. The oldest courtroom in San Mateo 

County has been restored to its appearance in 1910. 

Nature’s Bounty. This exhibit gallery explores 

how the earliest people of the Peninsula used 

the natural resources of the area and how those 

resources were used to help build San Francisco 

after the discovery of gold in 1849. 

Journey to Work. This exhibit gallery shows how 

transportation transformed San Mateo County 

from a frontier to suburbs. 

Carriage Display. An exhibit of the museum’s 30 

horse-drawn vehicles. 

Charles Parsons Gallery. An exhibit of the 23 

historical model ships created by Charles Parsons 

of San Carlos. 

Politics, Crime and Law Enforcement. The Atkinson 

Meeting Room includes the Walter Moore Law 

Enforcement Collection of historic badges. 

San Mateo County History Makers: Entrepreneurs 

Who Changed the World. The exhibit chronicles 

the entrepreneurs who made San Mateo County 

internationally known. 

Land of Opportunity: The Immigrant Experience 

in San Mateo County. The exhibit tells the stories 

of the diverse people who came to the area and 

explores how different groups faced hardships and 

discrimination. 

Living the California Dream. The exhibit depicts 

the development of the suburban culture of San 

Mateo County. 

Call for Artists 

Art on the Square 2010 

Art on the Square is a series of juried outdoor 

art shows on the streets surrounding Courthouse 

Square in downtown Redwood City. Shows are 

held monthly from June through September and 

feature fine art and fine crafts in a variety of 

media at price points for every budget. Art on the 

Square is looking for artists who work in painting, 

glass, photography, ceramics, fiber and more. 

There’s wonderful jewelry at each show, and for 

those who can’t get enough of it, we’ve added 

Jewelry on the Square on July 9. 

Art on the Square 2010 dates: 

Art on the Square with Music on the 

Square: Friday, June 18 

New! Jewelry on the Square with Music on 

the Square: Friday, July 9 

Art on the Square with the PAL Blues Festival: 

Friday, July 23, and Saturday, July 24 

Art on the Square with Music on the 

Square: Friday, Aug. 6 

Art on the Square with the Redwood 

City Salsa Festival: Friday, Sept. 24, and 

Saturday, Sept. 25 

Monthly jurying until shows are filled. Artists can 

download an application at www.redwoodcity. 

org/events/Art_on_the_Square.html. Questions? 

E-mail ArtontheSquare@sbcglobal.net. 


Nonprofits In Action 

Advocates for Children 

Advocates for Children, CASA of San Mateo 

County, is actively seeking caring and consistent 

adults to mentor and speak up for the best 

interests of these children. Over 130 children are 

waiting for someone who cares. 

If you would like to become a volunteer 

advocate, or just want to learn more, please attend 

an orientation held in their San Mateo office. Visit 

their Web site (www.AdvocatesFC.org) or call 

650-212-4423 for more information. 

City Talk Toastmasters 

Join the City Talk Toastmasters to develop 

communication and leadership skills. The club 

meets Wednesdays 12:30–1:30 p.m. in the Council 

Chambers at City Hall, 1017 Middlefield Road. 

Call Manny Rosas at 650-780-7468 if you would 

like to check out a meeting, or just stop in. Visit 

www.toastmasters.org for more information about 

the Toastmasters public speaking program. 

CityTrees 

CityTrees is a nonprofit working with the Public 

Works Department to enhance and care for 

Redwood City’s urban forest. They usually plant 

or prune on the third Saturday of each month. 

Check their Web site (www.citytrees.org) for a 

listing of events, dates and how to join. 

Family Connections 

This nonprofit group is the only parentparticipation 

preschool in San Mateo County 

focusing on low-income families. Their Redwood 

City classrooms offer children through age 5 and 

their parents a tuition-free learning environment 

that’s supportive and fun. Family Connections 

parents stay involved in their children’s education 

and, as a result, their children are more prepared 

for kindergarten and beyond. They are always 

looking for volunteers to play with the children 

while moms and dads attend parent-ed classes, 

organizers to help coordinate fundraisers, 

and people from the business world to initiate 

new corporate partnerships. Check www. 

familyconnections.org for more information. 

Family Service Agency of San 

Mateo County 

Looking for a dependable source of skilled, 

reliable workers? Family Service Agency of San 

Mateo County provides employers with mature, 

ready-to-work, experienced workers who are 55 

years and older. Employers contact the service 

because they appreciate the superior work ethic 

and the commitment to quality that mature 

workers possess. There are no fees for hiring 

candidates. Contact Barbara Clipper at 650-403- 

4300, ext. 4368, to place your job order. 

For those who are looking for work and are 

at least 55 years of age, Family Service Agency 

provides a range of services, including referrals 

for classroom training, vocational counseling, 

job referrals and on-the-job training for qualified 

participants. Contact Connie Tilles at 650-403- 

4300, ext. 4371, if you are looking for work. 


Friends for Youth 

Do you like to play video games, shoot hoops, 

watch baseball games or just have fun? Then 

you have what it takes to be a mentor! As a 

mentor, you can hang out with a young person 

like Reggie. He’s a 12-year-old who loves pizza, 

baseball and cars. He lives with his grandmother 

and three sisters and would love to hang out with 

a guy and have fun. There are 30 boys like Reggie 

waiting to be matched with a mentor like you. 

Most of the boys wait more than a year to meet 

their mentors. 

If you are interested in becoming a mentor, 

you are invited to attend a one-hour information 

session in Redwood City. For upcoming 

sessions, call 650-482-2871 or e-mail mentor@ 

friendsforyouth.org. 

Funders Bookstore 

If you haven’t wandered into the Funders 

Bookstore, you have missed one of Redwood 

City’s hidden treasures. This project is a 

volunteer effort by a group of dedicated people 

interested in supporting the San Mateo County 

History Museum and simultaneously providing a 

community bookstore for everyone’s pleasure. A 

large collection of hardback first editions, trade 

paperbacks, children’s books, cookbooks and 

an entire room of $1 paperbacks are featured. 

Bookstore hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 

11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is on the lower level of the 

San Mateo County History Museum at 2200 

Broadway, with the entrance facing Hamilton 

Street. Stop by for a browse! 

Habitat for Humanity 

Habitat for Humanity International is a nonprofit 

organization that seeks to eliminate poverty 

housing and homelessness from the world, and 

to make decent shelter a matter of conscience 

and action. Locally, the Greater San Francisco 

affiliate partners with working families and the 

community to build affordable ownership homes 

in Redwood City. Formed through the merger of 

Peninsula Habitat for Humanity and Habitat for 

Humanity San Francisco in August 2008, Habitat 

for Humanity Greater San Francisco provides a 

unique solution to the local housing crisis and 

has enabled nearly 150 families to purchase 

affordable housing. Contact Jennifer Doettling, 

communications director, at 650-568-7335 or 

jdoettling@habitatgsf.org. Visit their Web site at 

www.habitatgsf.org. 

Hearing Loss Association 

of the Peninsula 

Hearing Loss Association is a volunteer, 

international organization of hard-of-hearing 

people and their relatives and friends. The 

nonprofit, nonsectarian, educational organization 

is devoted to the welfare and interests of those 

who cannot hear well but are committed to 

participating in the hearing world. 

A day meeting is held on the first Monday of 

the month at 1:30 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial 

Senior Center, 1455 Madison Ave. Educational 

speakers and refreshments are provided. A 

demonstration of assistive devices is held on 

the first Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. 

in the second-floor conference room at the 

Redwood City Public Library, 1044 Middlefield 

Road. Please call Marj at 650-593-6760 with any 

questions. 

Nursing Mothers Counsel 

Nursing Mothers Counsel, a nonprofit 

organization since 1955, provides free 

breastfeeding education and assistance by highly 

trained counselors (moms who breastfed for at 

least six months). To speak with a counselor (no 

fee), call 650-327-MILK (327-6455). 

NMC also has breast pumps and breastfeeding 

supplies available for purchase and rent. Call 

650-364-9579. If you’d like to become a trained 

counselor, call 650-365-2713. Visit their Web site 

at www.nursingmothers.org. 

Optimist Club of Redwood City 

Optimist International is one of the largest service 

organizations in the world, where “bringing out 

the best in kids” has been their mission for over 

80 years. 

The Optimist Club of Redwood City meets 

every Tuesday at 12 p.m. at Alana’s Cafe, 1020 

Main St. For information, visit www.optimist. 

org or call President Ed Rosen at 650-366-7589 or 

Membership Chair John Butterfield at 650-366- 

8803. Or just come join them for lunch to learn 

more about how you can make a difference to the 

youth in our community. 

Peninsula Hills Women’s Club 

Founded in 1960, Peninsula Hills Women’s Club, 

a member of the General Federation of Women’s 

Clubs and the California Federation of Women’s 

Clubs, is a philanthropic organization serving the 

community through charitable, educational and 

service programs. Meetings are held the third 

Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. For additional 

information, contact PHWC, P.O. Box 1394, 

Redwood City, CA 94064. 

Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA 

In addition to sheltering and finding new homes 

for stray and unwanted animals (100 percent 

placement for healthy dogs and cats since 2003!), 

PHS/SPCA has vital programs for people. The 

shelter drives its mobile spay/neuter clinic into 

low-income neighborhoods, offering owners free 

“fixes” for their pets. PHS/SPCA also provides 

a free animal behavior help line in English and 

Spanish. Call 650-340-7022, ext. 783 or 786. 

And domestic abuse victims who wish to leave 

their abusive situation but are fearful of doing 

so because they have pets can receive temporary 

sheltering for their pets through PHS/SPCA. Call 

650-340-7022, ext. 330. 

Peninsula Sunrise Rotary Club 

The Peninsula Sunrise Rotary Club was chartered 

in April 1988. In the years since that time, the 

club has met weekly at 7:30 a.m. for breakfast and 

to hear a speaker at the Waterfront Restaurant at 

(continues on page 16)

P.S. The People Speak: Letters to the Editor 

Restoration vs. smoke and mirrors? 

Dear Editor: 

Media has a charter to do its best in fair and balanced reporting, but it is 

up to each individual reader to ask themselves what they really believe to 

be the truth in what they see and read. If you are moved by the Saltworks 

Development Project, either for or against, please do not rely on statements 

from Save The Bay. Nor should one rely solely on accounts coming from 

DMB Associates. 

DMB Associates has been very forthcoming and transparent in their 

proposal for Saltworks. They have secured water rights and paid for them 

so water will not be impacted in Redwood City. They have offered and will 

continue to offer site visits to anyone who wants to come out and inspect the 

site for themselves. 

Furthermore, Save The Bay doesn’t have a plan for the Saltworks site, 

yet they call for the full restoration. Apparently, this nonprofit from the 

other side of the bay is rich in cash, as it must have the money to purchase 

and restore the site. That’s funny, considering I just read that the Fish and 

Wildlife Service just issued their Bay Recovery Plan, which has a price tag of 

$1.3 billion. The article also went on to say that there is no money currently 

available to restore these already publicly owned lands. 

As I see it, the Saltworks proposal actually is about restoration, and I’m all 

for it. All I see from Save The Bay is smoke and mirrors. Until you have an 

actual plan, I suggest you focus on trying to come up with money to restore 

the lands already in public ownership. 

Praise Save The Bay and Menlo Park 

Andrew Lomano, San Mateo resident 

Dear Editor: 

Cargill/DMB have been spending lavishly for three years to manipulate 

the public in favor of filling the bay, and they have the audacity to claim that 

“Save The Bay is trying to corrupt the process.” How about a comparison 

of how much the developers have spent compared to what project opponents 

have spent. Save The Bay and Menlo Park should be praised for trying to 

find a solution that brings more affordable housing without sacrificing our 

precious San Francisco Bay. 

Atlantis 94063? 

Michael Dean Hitchcock, Redwood City 

Dear Editor: 

Since the Redwood City City Council and their friends, Cargill, are hell bent on 

filling in the bay for profit, let us call the new sunken community Atlantis. 

When the water rises due to global warming, this future community will 

flood like Milpitas. 

What do you expect from a company like Cargill that produces bad hamburgers? 

Will levees fail? 

Raymond DeMattei, San Carlos 

Dear Editor: 

Our San Francisco Bay is the vital, defining aspect of the Bay Area, and 

it has already shrunk by one-third due to filling and paving. For that reason, 

Peninsula leaders should oppose any development on the Cargill salt ponds. 

There should be no housing, schools or even businesses out there — behind 

levees that could fail. What the community does need are sports fields and 

park lands that are accessible to all. Redwood City already spelled out a plan 

that includes a huge new city park, protects the port and restores most of the 

salt ponds back to the bay where they belong. Why is nobody on the council 

speaking up for that positive vision? They seem to prefer to make people 

believe that we need to let Cargill build 12,000 homes in the bay in exchange 

for a few playing fields. It’s just not true. 

The levees and more will be welcomed! 

Joan Parker, Portola Valley 

Dear Editor: 

The benefits to the community and the region from the Saltworks plan are 

clear. We need more housing near jobs. We need parks and public open space 

in Redwood City. We need the economic boost, the flood protection and new 

transit links that would get people out of their cars and improve traffic flow 

along Highway 101. 

Experts have concluded that the project is not only feasible; it’s a once-in-ageneration 

chance to fix long-standing problems in the city and region. 

I live near the Saltworks area and very much look forward to the parks, the 

levee and the restored tidal marshland. 

This generation needs to get moving and make sure there are no more 

delays in the plan’s formal review. It’s time to stop talking and start acting. 

For the sake of our region and the next generation, let’s get this project started. 

SamTrans makes things less safe 

Connie Sadler, Redwood City 

Dear Editor: 

A gate connecting Pico Boulevard to Twin Dolphin Drive, which has 

for years provided important access for bicyclists and pedestrians to the 

Redwood Shores levee trail, has been closed by SamTrans. This gate closure 

disrupts bicycle traffic coming from the Whipple Avenue/Shoreway bike 

path into Redwood Shores. SamTrans recommends a detour out to Redwood 

Shores Parkway, which it claims is safer because it does not go by the yard 

entrance. Its suggested route is through the intersection that was recently 

the site of a bike fatality. While there is a marked bike path on Redwood 

Shores Parkway, bikers wishing to use the levee path must make two street 

crossings, for which there is no bike accessible signal control. I feel much 

safer riding on Pico than I do on Parkway. It seems to me that this action by 

SamTrans is making the situation less safe for bikers and is interfering with 

one segment of the Bay Trail bike route. 

Let your opinion be heard! 

Richard Bitting, Redwood City 

Send your letters to letters@spectrummagazine.net or 

Opinions & Letters, The Spectrum Magazine, P.O. 

Box 862, Redwood City, CA 94064 

Letters to the editor should be no longer than 300 words. Columns 

should be no longer than 750 words. Illegibly written and 

anonymous letters will not be accepted. Please include a daytime 

phone number where we can reach you. 


KAINOS/PENINSULA SUNRISE ROTARY CLUB 

IRISH NIGHT 

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

SATURDAY, MARCH 13TH 

TICKETS - $35 PER PERSON - 

ALL INCLUSIVE 

5:30 - HAPPY HOUR 

BEER & WINE 

SILENT AUCTION 

7:00 - LIVE AUCTION & 

TRADITIONAL IRISH DINNER 

(VEGETARIAN OPTION WITH ADVANCE NOTICE) 

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 


Donate Your Vehicle 

650-363-2423 

Proceeds support Kainos Home & Training Center 

Providing quality residential, vocational and support services to developmentally 

disabled adults, enabling them to become active, contributing members of the 

community. 

Maximum Tax Deductions – We handle paperwork 


Nonprofits In Action (Continued from page 12) 

Pete’s Harbor in Redwood City. The club, with 

22 members, has frequently been honored as an 

outstanding small club by Rotary District 5150, 

which includes San Mateo, San Francisco and part 

of Marin counties. For more information or to 

join, call Brandy Navarro at 650-367-9394. 

Rebuilding Together Peninsula 

RTP is a Redwood City nonprofit that provides 

free home repair and renovations for lowincome 

families, seniors and people living with 

disabilities throughout the Peninsula. RTP’s 

mission is to promote independent living in safety 

and warmth through volunteer partnerships 

with individuals and groups in the community. 

RTP is currently seeking skilled volunteers and 

construction captains for its annual National 

Rebuilding Day, when thousands of volunteers 

and sponsors unite to rehabilitate the homes and 

community facilities of our low-income neighbors 

and revitalize communities across the Peninsula. 

Come see how one day of your time can make a 

difference in someone’s life. If you are interested 

in volunteering, call 650-366-6597. For more 

information, visit rebuildingtogetherpeninsula.org. 

Redwood City Art Center 

The Redwood City Art Center promotes creativity 

and community by providing art education, 

exhibitions, studio space for artists and outreach to 

the local community and schools. The Art Center 

has been involved with several local events, 

offering fun, creative art projects for children, and 

the center hopes this is just the beginning of their 

involvement with the community. 

For scheduling or donation, contact artreach@ 

redwoodcityartcenter.org. For more general 

information, visit www.redwoodcityartcenter.org 

or call 650-369-1823. Or visit in person at 2625 

Broadway, Redwood City. 

Redwood City Eagles #418 

The Fraternal Order of Eagles is an international 

nonprofit united in the spirit of liberty, truth, 

justice and equality. They support our police, 

firefighters and others who protect and serve. The 

Eagles have provided support for medical centers 

across the country to build and provide research 

on medical conditions including heart disease, 

cancer, spinal cord injuries, kidney disease, diabetes 

and Alzheimer’s disease. They raise millions of 

dollars every year to help handicapped kids, uplift the 

aged and make life a little brighter for everyone. 

They meet on the second Tuesday of each 

month at the Eagles Hall, 1575 Marshall St., at 6 

p.m. for a social hour and dinner meeting. They 

play cards on the third Thursday and would love 

to have you join them. For more information, 

call President Ryan Herbst at 408-489-6582 or 

Secretary David Tomatis at 650-575-3225, or 

check out their Web site at www.foe418.org. 

Redwood City Education Foundation 

The Redwood City Education Foundation is an 

all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated 

to providing students in the Redwood City 

School District with a strong education that lays 


the foundation for future success. They raise 

private money to provide enrichment programs 

to all students in the district. Their funding is 

focused on academic achievement, music and 

art, and health and wellness. They are currently 

seeking new board members. Board members 

are responsible for attending monthly meetings, 

chairing board committees, participating 

in fundraising and outreach activities, and 

promoting RCEF in the community. If you are 

interested in the possibility of serving on the 

board, please contact Adam Borison at 650-363- 

7271 or vp@rcef.org. For more information on 

RCEF, check out www.rcef.org. 

Redwood City Orators 

Toastmasters Club 

Learn effortless public speaking as a beginner 

or polish existing skills. Join the Redwood City 

Orators Toastmasters Club, a fun, friendly, 

supportive and diverse group that meets every 

Friday morning from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. at St. Peter’s 

Episcopal Church, 178 Clinton St. (at Brewster). 

Look for their sidewalk sign or check them out at 

www.rcorators.org. 

Redwood City Rotary 

Redwood City Rotary performs many service 

projects, provides college scholarships and donates 

to international relief efforts. The club meets in a 

spirit of good fellowship and fun each Tuesday at 

12:15 at the Sequoia Club, 1695 Broadway, to hear 

speakers and plan community benefits, including 

the annual July 4 raffle that raises $80,000 for 

12 local charities. For more information about 

joining, contact Dr. Paul R. Piccione at drpaul@ 

woodsidewellnesscenter.com or 650-703-5957, or 

visit www.redwoodcityrotary.org. 

Redwood City Seniors Softball Club 

These recreational and tournament-level senior 

men and women play slow-pitch softball all year 

long. Membership is open to anyone at least 50 

years old within the calendar year. Many of the 

players are in their 60s and 70s and still going 

strong. Club members play every Tuesday, 

Wednesday and Thursday morning at Griffin 

Field at Red Morton Community Park. For more 

information or to join the club, contact Joe Kirby 

at 650-366-5299 or joekirbyis@comcast.net 

(include “Senior Softball Club” in the subject line). 

Redwood City Sunrise Lions Club 

This group is small but has a growing 

membership. All members either live or work 

in our community and share a common goal of 

making our city a better place to live. This club 

is one of over 44,000 Lions Clubs in 199 nations. 

Chartered in 1966, the club has been vigorously 

active helping eyesight-impaired youth in our 

schools and seniors who are hearing-impaired. 

Join them for breakfast! The Lions meet every 

Wednesday at Bob’s Court House Coffee Shop, 

2198 Broadway, beginning at 7:15 a.m. Call Bill 

Gibbons at 650-766-8105 for more details. 

Redwood City Women’s Club 

Founded in 1909 as a member of the General 

Federation of Women’s Clubs and the California 

Federation of Women’s Clubs, the Redwood City 

Women’s Club will celebrate its centennial in 

September. The club meets the first Thursday 

of each month, September through June, at the 

clubhouse at 149 Clinton St., Redwood City. 

Social at 11 a.m., lunch at noon, followed by a 

meeting and program. For information, call 650- 

363-1266 or visit the group’s Web site at rwcwc.com. 

Sequoia High School 

Alumni Association 

The group meets the fourth Tuesday of each 

month at the Sequoia District Board Room, 480 

James Ave., at 7 p.m. All alumni and friends 

of Sequoia are welcome to attend. For more 

information call Nancy at 650-592-5822, visit the 

Web site at sequoiahsalumniassoc.org or e-mail 

sequoiaalumni@earthlink.net. 

Sequoia High School 

Education Foundation 

The Sequoia High School Education Foundation 

is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving 

the high school experience for all students. 

Their mission is to support student success by 

investing in projects and programs that will have 

a substantial impact on the school community. 

If you applaud and appreciate Sequoia’s rise 

to academic prominence, consider a financial 

contribution that will guarantee the continuation 

of the programs and resources that have made 

Sequoia a winning school. For more information, 

go to www.sequoiahs.org. 

Sequoia Stamp Club 

This club was established in 1947 and invites 

community members to visit. The club meets 

at the Community Activities Building, 1400 

Roosevelt Ave., every second and fourth Tuesday 

at 7:45 p.m. There is a program every meeting and 

refreshments are served. The dues are only $3 

per year. Contact Hank at 650-593-7012, e-mail 

sequoiastampclub@yahoo.com or visit the group’s 

Web site at www.penpex.org. Sequoia Stamp Club 

sponsors a free stamp show at the same location 

on the first weekend in December. 

Soroptimist International 

of South Peninsula 

The Soroptimists invite you to become a member 

of Soroptmist International, the world’s largest 

service organization for business and professional 

women, where “improving the lives of women 

and children” has been their mission since 1921. 

Soroptimists work through service projects to 

advance human rights and the status of women 

locally and abroad. They meet the second 

Thursday of every month. For more information, 

please call their president, Maria, at 650-366- 

0668, Monday–Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. 

(continues on page 22)

Parties Around Town Chamber of Commerce Mixer - Wednesday, Feb. 17 

Clockwise, from left: A new chamber member mixing it up. Chamber CEO Larry Buckmaster with Keith Kadera. Vice Mayor Alicia Aguirre and Virginia Balsama of El Camino 

Travel. Nancy Barnhart of POS Card Systems. More chamber members sharing in the fun. Memo Morantes with City Manager Peter Ingram. 


Redwood City’s Blessing: 

May the Luck of Jolette Enfold You! 

By Nicole Minieri 

In this day and age 

when blessings 

are few and far 

between, Redwood 

City residents can 

consider themselves 

blessed to have 

Barry Jolette as 

a community 

benefactor. San 

Mateo Credit Union, 

of which Jolette is 

president and CEO, 

donates several 

hundred thousand 

dollars every year to 

numerous community 

events and programs.

“San Mateo Credit Union has for 

many years played a strong role in 

our communities. As a corporate 

citizen with a focus on service to 

our neighbors, it’s only natural 

this aspect would be demonstrated 

through staff volunteerism, event 

underwriting, sponsorships and 

simply maintaining a visible 

presence,” said Jolette. “Over 

the years, our staff has invested 

personal time and contributions 

to the American Heart Walk, 

the Kainos Home and Training 

Center, Rebuilding Together on 

the Peninsula and One Warm 

Coat.” Jolette went on to add, “I am 

admittedly prejudiced, but I believe 

San Mateo Credit Union is more 

than a financial institution. It is 

an organization that demonstrates 

through its actions its belief in 

‘people helping people.’ And we are 

proud to be an active participant 

in contributing to make our 

community a better place to live.” 

The lengthy list of groups and 

organizations that receive financial 

help from SMCU includes Better 

Living for Seniors, Boys & Girls 

Clubs, Redwood City’s summer 

concerts in the park, the city’s 

Community Builders program, the 

International Latino Film Festival, 

the Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom 

Festival, the Latino Leadership 

Council, Redwood City Education 

Foundation, the Redwood City 

Library Foundation, Redwood City 

Police Activities League, the San 

Mateo Historical Association, San 

Mateo County Jobs for Youth, the 

Sheriff’s Office youth programs, 

Woodside Terrace Kiwanis Club, 

the Service League, the Redwood 

City Fire Department, Little League, 

the Redwood City–San Mateo 

County Chamber of Commerce, 

the city’s Pride and Beautification 

Committee, Redwood Shores and 

North Fair Oaks annual clean-up 

events, Sequoia YMCA, the Sequoia 

Awards and the Miss Redwood 

City–Miss San Mateo County 

Scholarship Organization. 

Whew! But wait a minute; the 

list goes on. At the corporate level, 

SMCU functions as underwriter for 

several annual events, such as the 

Redwood City Rotary Car Raffle 

fundraiser, the Blues Festival (which 

benefits Redwood City PAL) and 

Hometown Holidays. “These are 

just a few examples of how San 

Mateo Credit Union plays a defining 

role in the culture of Redwood 

City,” said Jolette. 

This March, SMCU will be 

recognized as a major donor to yet 

another fun and worthy Redwood 

City event. “The Irish Night is the 

major fundraiser for the Peninsula 

Sunrise Rotary,” said Connie 

Paniagua, Jolette’s assistant. “San 

Mateo Credit Union is a major 

underwriter and Barry is a longtime 

member of this service club. The 

event raises about $30,000, which 

the club then distributes to nonprofit 

organizations to further their 

activities in our community.” SMCU 

is also a sponsor for this year’s Miss 

Redwood City competition. 

It is clear how privileged our 

community is to have such a driving 

force behind one of Redwood City’s 

most successful companies. Jolette 

possesses a level of compassion that 

has become rare in our society, and 

he has no problem spreading his 

generosity around. “Barry Jolette 

is a longtime supporter to our 

low-income housing project, and 

every year Barry’s contributions 

are large,” said Ginny Hughes, 

who works with the Kainos Home 

and Training Center, a program 

for adults with developmental 

disabilities that helps them reach 

their full potential in becoming 

productive, active members of the 

community. “He is one of the nicest, 

kindest gentlemen that I have ever 

met. Barry is one of our two major 

sponsors and he is so instrumental 

in helping us out year after year. I 

cannot put into words what Barry 

Jolette means to the Redwood City 

community. He is an absolute gem,” 

continued Hughes. 

“He is not only involved in the 

community, but he has been a 

committed friend to the Police 

Activities League. Barry Jolette 

has been very good to us and we 

really appreciate it,” said George 

Schoenstein, who is currently chair 

of the PAL Blues Festival and 

owns a thriving physical therapy 

practice in Redwood City. “For the 

last four years, San Mateo Credit 

Union has been our sponsor, and if 

it weren’t for Barry, there wouldn’t 

be a Blues Festival. He has given 

a lot to charitable organizations. 

People really like Barry because he 

is very personable and has a warm 

personality. He is also a leader 

with the Rotary Club. People like 

him make the world go around, 

and without him we couldn’t do it. 

He is one of the most prominent 

gift-givers in the community,” said 

Schoenstein. 

Jolette has remained committed 

to bettering Redwood City and 

the surrounding community since 

“I cannot put into words what Barry Jolette means to 

the Redwood City community. He is an absolute gem.” 

1987, when he first came on board 

at SMCU as president and CEO. 

Prior to that, Jolette had worked 

for the National Credit Union 

Administration for 19 years. He 

graduated in 1965 with a degree 

in business administration and 

accounting from St. Norbert College 

in his native Wisconsin. While still 

in college, he married his wife and 

became the proud father of two. 

Jolette moved with his family to 

Pleasanton, Calif., in 1980 after 

living in such places as Michigan, 

Illinois, Ohio and Washington, D.C. 

When Jolette first joined SMCU, 

the company had 15,700 members 

with $57 million in assets. Under 

his 22-year leadership, Jolette 

has grown SMCU to 70,000 

members with $600 million in 

assets. And the list of his industry 

achievements over the years is 

impressive: the highest national 

honor, the Herb Wegner Memorial 

Award for Lifetime Achievement, 

in recognition of his outstanding 

dedication to credit union values; 

the prestigious Leo H. Shapiro 

Lifetime Achievement Award for 

his continued service of excellence 

in the credit union industry; the 

California Credit Union League 

President’s Award; the California 

Credit Union League Distinguished 

Service Award in 1997; and the 

Unsung Hero and Silent Rotarian 

Award from the Peninsula Sunrise 

Rotary Club. 

For two consecutive years, SMCU 

has been voted one of the best 

places to work in the Bay Area by 

the San Francisco Business Times 

and acknowledged by the Sequoia 

Awards as an exceptional workplace 

in Redwood City. 

So, what’s a typical day like for 

the good-hearted chief? “There 

is no typical day, as they are all 

very different,” said Jolette. “But I 

usually start with the commute from 

Pleasanton, arriving at my office by 

7 a.m. Meetings begin at 9 a.m. and 

usually last most of the morning, 

(continues on next page) 

Jolette with his “right hand,” Connie Paniagua

CITY OF REDWOOD CITY HOME IMPROVEMENT LOAN PROGRAM 

Help keep 

our homes 

healthy 

and our 

neighborhoods 

safe. 

Apply Today for a 3 % Low-Interest Home Improvement Loan. 

Call (650) 780.7290 or visit www.redwoodcityhousing.org 

AVAILABLE TO ELIGIBLE HOMEOWNERS AND LANDLORDS 

Redwood City’s Blessing: May the Luck of Jolette Enfold You! (Continued from previous page) 

Celebrating the opening of the Fair Oaks branch were former Mayor Jim Hartnett, 

Sheriff Greg Munks, Councilwoman Rosanne Foust, Jolette and county board of education 

member Memo Morantes. 

except for Tuesday mornings when I have Rotary. And then there are days for 

breakfast meetings supporting community organizations, or breakfast with 

staff members, which I do with all staff at least once a year. And a couple of 

nights each week there is some community event to attend. And some days 

I squeeze in time for World Council Credit Unions, Credit Union Direct 

Lending and Department of Financial Institutions. And in between is the 

need to attend [to] staff issues.” 

In addition to his daily responsibilities at SMCU, Jolette serves as a 

delegate of the Credit Union National Association (CUNA). Jolette is also 

chairman of the board for the World Council of Credit Unions (WOCCU), 

which represents 59 countries around the world. “Being chairman of 

WOCCU is a distinct honor, as only one person in our entire credit union 

world has that privilege each year,” said Jolette. 

As busy as he is in his credit union career, Jolette still finds spare time to 

enjoy with his wife and his interests, which include music, theater, the Green 

Bay Packers and recreational reading, “like a good book on a person who 

has made a real difference in our world, like Roosevelt, Churchill, Truman 

and others in history. And, more recently, a good mystery,” said Jolette. “And 

after 47 years of marriage, nothing beats time for just two people, regardless 

of what we do!” 

Jolette certainly keeps busy operating SMCU in the business world and 

impacting various events and programs in Redwood City. His personal 

philosophy extends into how he manages his staff. “Live while you are living! 

Life is short, so make the most of it while you can. Work hard, play hard,” 

said Jolette. “Enjoy your work, as you spend more of your working hours 

there [than] anyplace else, but there is more to life than work: it is called 

family. Always take time to extend a helping hand to those in need. Look for 

opportunities in life where you can make a difference in the lives of others!” 

Indeed, Barry Jolette has made a positive change in so many lives in 

Redwood City and is committed to continuing to be an active “doer” 

within the community. His proven track record demonstrates how much he 

truly cares for people. As we move into March, Jolette is already working 

his magic to ensure that the Irish Night event will financially benefit our 

community. Happy St. Patrick’s Day to you, Jolette. And to everyone else, 

“May the luck of Jolette enfold you!” 


Community Interest 

Foust Named to Head SAMCEDA 

Gemma Announces Retirement 

Rosanne Foust, vice president of 

the San Mateo County Economic 

Development Association, is taking 

over as acting president and CEO 

while Dan Cruey recovers from a 

recent motorcycle accident. 

Cruey stepped down effective 

Dec. 31 and the board of directors 

appointed Foust to fill in while the 

executive search committee looks for 

a full-time replacement. 

Foust is current vice president, 

working on issues of economic 

growth, job creation, housing policy, 

transportation and government reform. 

She serves on the board of trustees 

for the Bay Area Council Economic 

Institute, chairs the San Mateo County 

Transportation Authority and is deputy chair of the Redwood City–San 

Mateo County Chamber of Commerce. She sits on the Redwood City City 

Council and is the immediate past mayor. 

Foust Is Having a Great Month, Named Person of the Year 

The Redwood City–San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce named 

Redwood City Councilwoman Rosanne Foust its 2009 Person of the Year, 

noting her commitment to the group as she juggled duties with the city and as 

then vice president of SAMCEDA. 

Foust, who served as Redwood City mayor during 2009, was selected by that 

year’s Chamber Chair Glenna Vaskelis, president and CEO of Sequoia Hospital. 

“When you think about enthusiasm, willingness to say ‘yes’ when asked, 

knowledge of the chamber organization, accomplishment, commitment and 

dedication, one person’s name bubbles to the top: Rosanne Foust,” Vaskelis 

said while presenting the honor during the chamber’s 12th annual dinner and 

recognition banquet Jan. 28. 

Foust served as deputy chair of the chamber, co-chaired the chamber 

membership drive and co-chaired the annual progress seminar. She also 

chaired the Program Orientation Day for Leadership Redwood City– 

Belmont–San Carlos, created a venue to talk with legislators and headed up 

an effort with the San Mateo County Economic Development Association to 

coordinate all the individual efforts surrounding high-speed rail. 

“Rosanne was instrumental in the success of so many of our chamber 

programs last year and certainly exemplifies what this award is all about,” 

Vaskelis said. 

Sequoia Alumni Looking for a Patriot 

The Sequoia High School Alumni Association is looking to honor a Purple 

Patriot and is soliciting nominations for its annual Purple Patriot Award, 

purple and white being Redwood City’s Sequoia High School’s official colors. 

Recipients will receive a framed certificate as well as have their names 

inscribed on a perpetual trophy on permanent display at the high school. 

The Purple Patriot Award is an annual award instituted to honor both 

individuals and organizations that have demonstrated outstanding service or 

provided a significant benefit directly to Sequoia High School. Nominees may 

be from Sequoia High School or the community at large. 

Please indicate the nominee’s individual name or organization name and 

state why the nominee should receive this award. Indicate specifically what 

role the nominee played in directly providing the service or benefit to Sequoia 

High School and explain in detail what the service or benefit was. 

Nominations must be submitted in writing to the Sequoia High School 

Alumni Association, P.O. Box 2534, Redwood City, CA 94064, or placed in the 

Sequoia High School Alumni Association mailbox near the principal’s office, no 

later than March 19. 

Patrick Gemma, Ed.D., 60, superintendent of the 8,200-student Sequoia 

Union High School District, has announced his retirement, effective June 30, 

when he completes the term of his current contract. 

At the board meeting on Feb. 17, trustees discussed the process for naming 

Gemma’s successor. 

“Dr. Gemma has been an outstanding superintendent and we are very sad 

to see him go,” said Olivia Martinez, Ed.D., president of the district’s board 

of trustees. “The district has achieved some significant milestones under 

his leadership. During his tenure, the district passed two additional bond 

measures, which has allowed us to offer students some of the best facilities 

and technology anywhere. In addition, the district has recruited and retained 

outstanding leaders and some of the best faculty and professional support 

staff in the state. 

“Dr. Gemma also led a pivotal strategic planning process for the district 

that led to development of a new vision and goals for the 21st century,” she 

continued. “His leadership will be missed but his legacy will continue for 

many years to come.” 

Gemma joined the Sequoia district in February 2003 after serving five 

years as superintendent of the Tahoe-Truckee Unified School District. 

Previously, he served as assistant superintendent for curriculum and 

personnel in the Piedmont Unified School District, and principal and vice 

principal at the high school and middle school levels. He started his career in 

public education 38 years ago as a special education teacher. 

Gemma, who currently holds the honor of Superintendent of the Year for 

the Association of California School Administrators’ Region 5 (encompassing 

all of San Mateo and San Francisco counties), is still formulating plans for his 

retirement. 

“I’m looking forward to rejuvenating over the summer and spending more time 

with my aging father and family, reconnecting with friends and contemplating 

which interests and challenges I might like to pursue next,” he said. 

Meanwhile, Gemma says he is focused in the months ahead on the budget 

planning cycle for 2010–11 and continued work in strengthening efforts to close 

the achievement gap, possible expansion of alternative education offerings, 

transition to a new student information system, and planning for upcoming 

expansion of the district’s career technical education facilities and programs. 

“It has been a privilege to have served the Sequoia district and the 

community for the past seven years,” he said. “Our schools are such valuable 

community resources, and the Sequoia district is fortunate to have an 

engaged and supportive community.” 

Like school districts throughout the state, the Sequoia district has faced 

financial challenges for more than a year. 

“Although we’re still experiencing the effects of the state budget crisis and 

(continues on next page) 


Community Interest (Continued from previous page) 

the struggling national economy, the Sequoia district is on solid footing — 

with a sound recovery plan in place — to continue on our path to fulfilling 

our 21st century vision and goals,” Gemma said. 

Clinics Get Grant Expansion Money 

The Sequoia Healthcare District pledged $4.3 million to help build a new 

clinic in the North Fair Oaks area of unincorporated Redwood City. 

The district board voted 3-1 to approve the grant request from the countyoperated 

San Mateo Medical Center. 

Board members Don Horsley, Kim Griffin and Katie Kane approved the 

grant request while Jack Hickey voted against it. Board member Art Faro was 

not in attendance. 

The money will go toward consolidating three clinics the county operates 

— Fair Oaks Children’s Clinic, Fair Oaks Adult Clinic and the Willow Clinic 

— into one larger facility that will cost about $17 million in total including 

construction. The three clinics provide services for the underinsured and 

Medi-Cal patients. 

The San Mateo County health system has experienced a 63 percent 

increase in enrollment in the Access and Care for Everyone program, 

from 12,465 to 20,362 in the past six months, said Dr. Susan Ehrlich, chief 

executive officer of San Mateo Medical Center. The system has also seen a 19 

percent increase in visits by working but uninsured residents who make too 

much too qualify for ACE, Ehrlich said. 

Increased demand has highlighted the constraints in physical capacity the 

three clinics have in expanding the number of primary care appointments. 

There are currently 4,100 people waiting for primary-care appointments 

in the county system, with waits being up to four months or longer to get an 

appointment. The emergency room at the county-run hospital has seen a 14 

percent increase in visits, primarily due to the poor economy. 

A larger, modern, efficient facility is proposed to be built in North Fair 

Oaks that would combine the services from all three clinics. 

Griffin asked how the new facility would actually bring down costs for its 

patients from $255 a visit to $227 a visit. 

Greater capacity would allow doctors to see more patients, while reduced 

administrative costs will help bring down the costs, Ehrlich said. 

The consolidation will call for the elimination of at least two full-time 

employees due to redundancy. 

Total space will increase from 27,500 square feet at the three current 

clinics to about 36,000 square feet in the new facility. Exam rooms will increase 

from 39 to 52. 

Visit volume will increase from 68,989 to an estimated 91,000 visits a year, 

Ehrlich said. 

Sequoia Healthcare District partners with public and nonprofit community 

providers to improve the health of children, youth, adults and older adults in 

the southern part of San Mateo County. The district applies public funds to 

major health initiatives. 

Nonprofits In Action (Continued from page 16) 

Sustainable San Mateo County 

Established in 1992, this local nonprofit is dedicated to the long-term 

health of our county’s environment, economy and social equity. Programs 

include an annual report, an annual awards event with over 450 attendees, 

sustainabilityhub.net, green business workshops and more. If you would 

like to volunteer, contact the SSMC office at 650-638-2323 or e-mail 

advocate@sustainablesanmateo.org. For more information, visit www. 

sustainablesanmateo.org. 

Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club 

Since October 1956, the Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club has been 

devoted to community service in Redwood City. Through the decades, 

the club has provided funds to help many worthy community programs 

and continues to add more community projects. The Key Club of Sequoia 

High School, sponsored by the Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club, was 

chartered in 1994 and has been involved in raising money and donating time 

and effort to many programs. 

The Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club meets every Tuesday evening 

6–7 p.m. at Harry’s Hofbrau, 1909 El Camino Real (one block north of 

Woodside Road). They invite you to come to their meetings and check out the 

club’s Web site at www.wtamkiwanis.org. 

Woodside Terrace Optimist Club 

This is a unique club made up of senior citizens who want to stay involved. 

Most, but not all, come from the residence at Woodside Terrace. The club is 

open to all of the community and provides an opportunity for seniors to be 

useful. The club’s funds are raised by a card, candy and necklace sale held 

on the fourth Wednesday of each month in the main lobby at 485 Woodside 

Road, open to the public. 

Lunches/meetings are at 12:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays 

of each month in the Assisted Living Dining Room at Woodside Terrace. 

Guests are welcome. Please call President Jack Murphy at 650-780-9891 or 

Millie Cole at 650-366-1392 for reservations. 

YES Reading 

This local organization is dedicated to empowering students through literacy 

and investing community members in underserved public schools. YES 

Reading recruits and trains community volunteers to provide one-on-one 

tutoring for elementary and middle school students reading below grade level. 

YES Reading operates several reading centers on the Peninsula and in 

the South Bay, including a site at Selby Lane School in Atherton. If you are 

interested in becoming a reading tutor for a child who needs your help, please 

call 408-945-9316 or email info@yesreading.org. Visit the YES Reading Web 

site at www.yesreading.org. 

Editor’s note: If you are connected with a nonprofit organization and want your information 

printed in The Spectrum, send it to writers@spectrummagazine.net or The Spectrum Magazine, 

P.O. Box 862, Redwood City, CA 94064. Let our community know your contributions and 

maybe they will want to join you. 

The Redwood City Community is invited to comment on the 

New Downtown Precise Plan 

You can help shape our Downtown’s future land use, 

urban design, and development - to create a unique and 

vibrant Downtown for today and the future. 

• Hear an UPDATE on the Downtown Precise Plan: 

Monday, March 22, 7 pm (City Council meeting) 

• COMMENT on what environmental issues should be evaluated 

in the Plan’s Environmental Impact Report: 

Tuesday, March 30, 7 pm (Planning Commission meeting) 

(Both meetings at City Hall -1017 Middlefield Road) 

Written comments may be submitted from March 1 st - April 15 th . For more 

information please call 780-7234 or visit redwoodcity.org/preciseplan 


Feel Warm During Winter – 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? Whether 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 – 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. Many 

of their satisfied customers have been with them since their founding and 

continue to do business with them 

today. They proudly serve the third 

generation of many of their first 

Redwood City customers. They even 

have free Wi-Fi Internet so you can work 

while you wait for your vehicle to be 

serviced. 

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 hamburgers 

to pizza, all kinds of sandwiches and 

pastas, and they even have a South of 

the Border menu! There’s a Sunday 

all-you-can-eat menu and NBA games 

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 any special event!” 

Deseo Tequila Lounge and Restaurant – 851 Main St. – “We went there 

and it was fabulous! My friends were very impressed by their food menu, 

and I have to say the burger I had was tasty. They also have 21 big-screen 

televisions to view sporting events and more. This place has it all! I am so 

happy that Redwood City finally has such an upscale place for watching your 

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

Let’s all get out and support them!” They are hosting special events all the 

time, so call for details. 

Little India – 917 Main St. – “There are good restaurants. There are bad 

restaurants. There are OK restaurants. Then there are those places, the magic 

ones. You come back again and again because the food doesn’t just taste good 

and satisfy hunger, but helps heal the heart and soul.” Senior citizens receive 

$1 off and children under 12 dine at half price. www.littleindiacuisine.com. 

Home Improvement: 

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

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

of several employees and vans. The Lewis family works and lives in 

Redwood City and is committed to our community. When choosing a 

reputable company, that should make you feel secure. Ask about their 

Spectrum special: Get 100 square feet of carpet cleaned for absolutely 

nothing. Call today and get your home looking great. 

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. 

Business Profile of the Month 

Re:Juvenate Skincare Clinic – 1100 Laurel St., Suite F, San 

Carlos – With the myriad skin care procedures and products 

available today, it’s great to have a team of experts to help you 

choose a customized treatment plan! 

At Re:Juvenate, your skin will look its best in the shortest time 

possible and with the least cost. Medical treatments include 

Botox, fillers (e.g., Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm) and laser hair 

removal, vein removal, brown spot removal and skin resurfacing. 

A new procedure, Body by Thermage, is able to tighten and 

contour loose skin in most body areas. 

There’s no doubt about it; the better you look, the better you 

feel. Call today for your complimentary consultation and let the 

professionals at Re:Juvenate Skincare Clinic help you love the 

skin you’re in! Visit www.rejuvenateskincare.net or call 650-631-5700. 

Personal Improvement: 

Every Woman Health Club – 611 Jefferson Ave. – This women-only, 

body-positive fitness center in downtown Redwood City offers a variety of 

classes, weight and cardio equipment, personal training, therapeutic massage 

and skin care. Flexible pricing, with several options available for members 

and nonmembers. Visit www. 

everywomanhealthclub.com or call 

650-364-9194 to get started. 

Specialty Businesses: 

Bizzarro’s Auto Auction – 2581 

Spring St. – Services include auto 

auctions, consignment vehicle sales, 

appraisal services and even ways 

to donate your vehicle to charities. 

Increase your fundraising efforts with 

a live auction — Bizzarro’s is your 

one-stop auction team with spotters, 

clerks, sample catalogs, bid numbers, 

etc. Call 650-363-8055 for details on all 

of their services. 

Castle Insurance – 643 Bair Island 

Road, #104 – Castle Insurance is 

an independent insurance agency 

representing a carefully selected 

group of financially sound, reputable 

insurance companies. They provide a 

wide range of policies, from renter’s insurance to auto and more. Visit www. 

insurancebycastle.com or call 650-364-3664 for a free quote. 

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 Web site at www.hectorflamenco.com. 

Terry Finn and Madonna’s Bail Bonds – 234 Marshall St., Upstairs #3, 650- 

366-9111 – Finn and Madonna’s provide bail bonds to any court jurisdiction, 

jail or police agency in California and in many other states. Interested parties 

representing incarcerated subjects are encouraged to contact the licensed bail 

agent on duty at the above office for immediate bail bond assistance. 

Saf Keep Storage – 2480 Middlefield Road – At Saf Keep, you and your 

belongings are safe and secure. A friendly and reliable team is ready to assist 

you with a variety of storage products and services to suit all your storage 

needs. Visit www.safkeepstorage.com to see exactly what products and 

services are available. 

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

clinical approach of this independent, community-based 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.” Phil has 

become an expert in repair service and welcomes your “fix-it” pieces. 


News Briefs 

RWC Woman Murdered 

The death of a 47-year-old woman whose body was found pierced with stab 

wounds in her Redwood City apartment is being treated as a homicide, a 

police captain said. 

Officers had responded to Alycia Williams’ home at an apartment complex 

at 707 Leahy St. after a family member requested a welfare check on 

Williams because she hadn’t been seen for several days, Redwood City police 

Capt. Ron Matuszak said. 

When they arrived, the officers found Williams dead inside her apartment, 

according to Matuszak. Police believe she had been dead for more than a day. 

Due to “the nature of her stab wounds,” her death has been labeled a 

homicide, Matuszak said. 

An autopsy was conducted on Williams, and a follow-up autopsy was 

scheduled to help determine the official cause of death. 

No suspects have been arrested, but Matuszak said police are focusing their 

investigation on men who were familiar with Williams. 

“She was living at the apartment by herself, and we understand she 

associated with several men,” Matuszak said. 

Because she was found dead in her apartment, Matuszak said police are 

speculating that she may have known her killer. 

“Most women who were killed were killed by men,” he said. “And a large 

percentage are killed by people who knew them.” 

However, the possibility that the suspect was a stranger has not been ruled out. 

“There’s no witnesses, no solid suspect information,” he said. “You 

shouldn’t rule out anything.” 

Not Guilty Plea in Tire Iron Attack 

A man accused of attacking another with a tire iron in Redwood City because 

the victim was upset he tried to have an affair with his wife pleaded not guilty. 

Fortunato Lopez Martinez, 21, of East Palo Alto, is charged with numerous 

felonies, including attempted murder and assault with a deadly weapon. In 

Superior Court, Martinez pleaded not guilty to all counts. 

According to prosecutors, Martinez and the 38-year-old victim had worked 

together as landscapers months before the incident but had a falling out. On 

more than one occasion this fall, Martinez allegedly called the man’s wife 

and asked her to have a relationship. The woman told her husband, who, after 

spotting Martinez on Poplar Street on a Sunday morning, confronted him and 

began a physical fight. 

After the victim gained the upper hand, Martinez allegedly told him he had 

“just dug his own grave” and retrieved a tire iron from an apartment building 

and struck the man several times in the head. The victim required 15 stitches. 

Martinez surrendered to police Dec. 30. He remains in custody on no-bail status. 

Attempted Gift Theft Defendants Plead Not Guilty 

Two men accused of trying to steal gifts from an unincorporated Redwood 

City house just before Christmas pleaded not guilty and were ordered to trial. 

Oscar Roberto Gomez and Jose Luis Juarez, both 18, are charged with 

burglary and robbery, and burglary, respectively. A third alleged accomplice, 

Herman Mark Anthony Velez, 22, is free from custody on a $50,000 bail 

bond while awaiting a preliminary hearing on his burglary charge. 

According to prosecutors, on Dec. 22, a homeowner returned to find 

Gomez inside his home, a Christmas tree knocked down and gifts strewn 

about. Juarez reportedly served as lookout in a car outside while Velez 

was in a yard shed. The homeowner threw a rock at Gomez, who allegedly 

responded by knocking him down and yelling death threats. Prosecutors say 

Gomez and Velez ran down the street and went to an unsuspecting neighbor’s 

home, claiming car trouble and asking to borrow the phone. The neighbor 

let them inside and volunteered to drive them for help because it was cold, 

according to Chief Deputy District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe. 

Gomez remains in custody while Juarez is free on a $50,000 bail bond. 

Both return to court March 1 for a pretrial conference before beginning jury 

trial March 15. 


Judo Champ in Train Station Assault Freed 

A renowned judo instructor accused, along with a friend, of beating two men 

at the Menlo Park Caltrain Station after friendly “horseplay” turned serious, 

is free from custody after pleading no contest to felony assault and causing 

great bodily injury. 

Matthew Walker, 25, of Tacoma, Wash., was sentenced to six months jail 

but has credit for 188 days. He must also spend three years on supervised 

probation and pay whatever restitution is ordered at a March 16 hearing. Codefendant 

Robert Eugene Davis, 22, of Redwood City, did not settle his case 

and is set for trial Feb. 16. 

According to prosecutors, Davis and Walker began talking to the two 

alleged victims Sept. 29 after Walker’s judo jacket sparked a conversation. 

Walker is a renowned judo artist who recently placed in a world competition. 

The two men began “horseplaying” but the game grew too rough, according 

to the District Attorney’s Office. 

Davis reportedly took one man’s cell phone after he tried calling police, 

and both defendants allegedly attacked the other men. One man suffered 

facial lacerations and a broken leg. The other was knocked unconscious and 

had facial lacerations. Davis posted a $50,000 bail bond and is free from custody. 

Man Who Assaulted RWC Officer Freed 

The parolee facing 16 months in prison for assaulting Redwood City police 

officers responding to a call for help by his mother is free from custody 

because newly implemented sentencing guidelines gave him enough credit 

for time served. 

David Arreola Torres, 30, pleaded no contest in December to resisting a 

police officer and admitted having three prior convictions in return for the 

low prison term of 16 months. After asking to move up his sentencing date, 

Torres was formally handed the term with credit for 528 days and released. 

New state sentencing guidelines give inmates double their earned time served. 

Torres returns to court March 9, however, for a hearing on restitution. 

Police arrested Torres the afternoon of May 11 after responding to a call 

on Buckeye Street from his mother, who said he was on drugs. Torres, who 

is 6 feet 5 inches and 280 pounds, threw one officer backward, causing a 

concussion, and fought with other officers. Police were unable to subdue 

Torres with a baton and pepper spray. He also broke free from a WRAP 

restraint but finally passed out. 

After his arrest, the District Attorney’s Office reported Torres has a 

lengthy drug abuse history and was under the influence of methamphetamine 

and cocaine when his mother called. 

Milkshake Wife Denied Parole 

A Redwood City woman serving a life sentence for poisoning her husband 

with an insecticide-laced milkshake and fleeing to Mexico with their son was 

denied parole for the first time since her 2002 attempted murder conviction. 

Elizabeth Fuentes-Ortiz, 40, was also convicted of concealing a child and 

the special allegations of concealing a child, inflicting great bodily injury and 

torture. On April 22, 2002, she was sent to prison for life with the possibility 

of parole. Her appearance before the Board of Parole Hearings at the Valley 

State Prison for Women at Chowchilla was her first, and its members deemed 

her unsuitable for release for another five years. 

Fuentes-Ortiz’s trial came a decade after she delivered the tainted beverage 

to her then-husband, Gilbert Ortiz, at his Toys R Us workplace in Redwood City. 

During the 15-day trial, she claimed she feared her husband because he 

was abusive and that he raped her the night before the poisoning. After two 

days of deliberations, the jury’s verdict showed they believed otherwise. 

In 2004, Ortiz appealed the conviction on grounds the jury was not 

instructed to consider it an act of self-defense. The three-person state Court 

of Appeal unanimously rejected the argument. 

“The prosecutor’s questioning effectively pointed out that if she had 

actually feared harm at the hands of the victim, reasonably or unreasonably, 

she had access to an automobile and had the entire day to take the couple’s 

(continues on next page)

News Briefs (Continued) 

child and get to a place of safety,” Justice Ignazio Ruvolo wrote in the decision. 

Ruvolo added that “the evidence overwhelmingly suggested that the 

appellant was simply enraged.” 

On March 11, 2002, Fuentes-Ortiz brought her husband the milkshake 

laced with Ortho-7 insecticide. She told him it was a protein shake intended 

to help him build muscle mass. Gilbert Ortiz testified that the drink tasted 

“like chocolate but sour and burning.” 

Ortiz fell to the ground in convulsions, slipped into a 10-day coma, 

suffered multiple organ failures and a heart attack and was incommunicative. 

He testified he has residual health problems from the poisoning. 

While her husband was comatose, Fuentes-Ortiz gave Redwood City police 

conflicting stories of where the poison originated. Once, she said a masked man 

tried to kill her husband; another time, she claimed it was a suicide attempt. 

By the time Ortiz could tell authorities who had given him the questionable 

shake, Fuentes-Ortiz had fled to Mexico with their 2-year-old son, Jonathan. 

She was profiled numerous times on the TV show “Unsolved Mysteries” over 

the eight years it took FBI agents to arrest her in the Mexican state of Jalisco. 

Jonathan remained missing until Fuentes-Ortiz’s mother brought him to the 

county jail to visit his imprisoned mother. 

Fuentes-Ortiz told the court that by poisoning her husband she meant only 

to incapacitate, not kill him, to escape an abusive marriage that included 

sexual abuse. 

“There’s no motive, no explanation for anything other than domestic violence,” 

defense attorney Joseph O’Sullivan said during his closing arguments. 

Prosecutors argued, though, that the murder attempt was fueled by jealousy 

and anger over Ortiz’s long work hours. 


Budget Crisis Puts Local Academic Gains at Risk 

A message from Jan Christensen 

Test scores have risen steadily at the 17 schools 

serving K–8 students in the Redwood City School 

District. Enrollment is up, attendance is higher 

and parents are more involved than ever before. 

The Redwood City Education Foundation serves 

the Peninsula, and a vast network of community 

volunteers support our schools. The district and 

members of its staff have received many honors 

and awards in recent years. 

This should be a golden time for our local schools. 

But despite the tremendous progress made 

in recent years, our schools now face the most 

enormous challenge in several generations due to 

our state’s budget crisis. Unfortunately, the programs 

and staff positions that led to unprecedented gains 

by our students are now being cut — not because 

our school board thinks it is a good idea, but 

because we simply have no other options. 

During my four years as superintendent of the 

Redwood City School District, unrestricted state 

funding to Redwood City students has dropped by 

17 percent, and the situation is expected to worsen 

significantly over the next several years. We have 

about the same size budget as when I joined the 

district in 2006, but we are educating about 1,000 

more students. Per-student funding for Redwood 

City has dropped from about $5,500 per student in 

2007–08 to about $4,700 in 2009–10. 

Last year, we increased class sizes, reduced 

library hours and eliminated or reduced important 

positions and programs. About $5 million in jobs 

and programs were saved by federal stimulus 

funds. Now those funds have been used up, the 

schools will need to make another round of severe 

cuts for next year. Few options remain to reduce 

the budget. 

The district is planning to cut $4.7 million to 

$10.6 million next year — about 10 percent to 12 

percent of our unrestricted general fund. Cuts that 

would have been unthinkable just a few years ago 

are now under consideration: increasing all class 

sizes in all grades to 31 students, shortening the 

school year and reducing or eliminating popular 

programs. 

The Redwood City School District is not alone 

in the budget problems it is facing. The vast 

majority of school districts around the state are 

considering similar measures, but the pain from 

state budget cuts is not affecting all districts 

equally. Due to California’s complicated public 

school funding system, our district is surrounded 

by school districts funded primarily by local 

property taxes, while we rely primarily on state 

aid for funding. 

For example, even before the budget crisis, 

the Redwood City School District received less 

than half the amount of unrestricted per-student 

base funding as a neighboring school district. 

In 2007–08, per-student base funding plus local 

support totaled under $7,000 per student in 

Redwood City, but over $15,000 per student for a 

neighboring district. The steep reductions in state 

aid have widened the gap in education funding for 

two students who may live only a mile apart from 

each other. Not only is this a terrible injustice, but 

over time it will lower the economic prospects of 

all Californians. 

Editor’s note: Community members always have the 

opportunity to share their priorities and ideas. Jan 

Christensen is superintendent of the Redwood City School 

District. She can be reached at jchristensen@rcsdk8.net. 

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

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 



Redwood City Teen Ontiveros Named ‘Youth of the Year’ 

“ 

Clarisa Ontiveros grew up going to her local Boys 

& Girls Club in Redwood City. 

She recalled looking up to the teens 

volunteering and working with her. Ontiveros 

would make drawings to give to those teen mentors. 

Today, the 18-year-old Sequoia High School 

senior receives such drawings from the little 

children she works with at the Mervin G. Morris 

Clubhouse in Redwood City. Her work giving 

back paid off as Ontiveros was recently named the 

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula’s 2010 Youth 

of the Year. Giving back is not a temporary plan 

for Ontiveros, who plans to study communications 

and return to help her community. 

Ontiveros grew up in Redwood City. The 

youngest of three children, she attended Hoover 

Elementary and described herself as a little nerdy. 

She always worked hard to finish work early and 

help others. 

After school Ontiveros would go to the Boys 

& Girls Club just a couple of blocks from her 

house. There was a gap in her attendance when 

her family moved from the neighborhood to 

downtown for a short number of years. 

Ontiveros began attending Sequoia High School 

and returned to the club, following a family move. 

The studious youth was attracted to Sequoia for 

its International Baccalaureate program. Entering 

it was intimidating to Ontiveros, who was one of 

the few Latinas in the program. That intimidation 

subsided when Ontiveros realized everyone was 

nice and the staff was supportive. 

Ontiveros began volunteering at the club after 

She has two classes of about 13 children, grades 

first through eighth, that meet two times per 

week. Ontiveros sees herself as privileged to have 

the option to help these youngsters. 

Ontiveros was a bit hesitant to go through 

the process for the Youth of the Year since 

deadlines were about the same as those for college 

applications. Going for it meant Ontiveros learned 

a valuable lesson: time management. 

“I never took it as I need to win. I learned so 

much,” she said, noting the opportunity to talk in 

front of a crowd and tell her story. 

As her high school experience begins to come 

to an end, Ontiveros plans to attend a four-year 

school to study communications in hopes of 

becoming a journalist and returning to Redwood 

City to somehow help the neighborhood in which 

she grew up. Going to college would be another 

accomplishment for Ontiveros, who would be the 

first in her family to go to college. 

Participating in a variety of Boys & Girls 

Clubs programs have helped in that process. But 

I enjoy it. When a kid struggles with math, 

you help them. And they get so happy when 

they get it.” 

school. At 16, she was offered a job on the teen 

staff. At 17, she was working with kids in the 

SuccessMaker course, helping children work 

on math and reading skills. She also meets with 

parents to give progress reports. When Ontiveros 

turned 18 last month, she was offered a parttime 

position. She has her own desk and is proud 

to be the youngest one at the club offered such 

responsibility. 

“I enjoy it. When a kid struggles with math, you 

help them. And they get so happy when they get 

it,” she said. 

Ontiveros was quick to note that the staff at the 

club, Sequoia High, her family and best friends 

have all been supportive in her efforts to be 

successful. 

“We are so proud of Clarisa and look forward 

to hearing about her bright future,” said Peter 

Fortenbaugh, executive director of the Boys & 

Girls Clubs of the Peninsula. 


newspaper. 


Vicky Costantini Presents. . . 

522 Eastview Way Woodside 

Completely rebuilt and expanded in 2008, this elegant, old world-style 

home has 6528+/-sf of construction on a 1.4+/-acres horse property. 

Main residence is 4400+/-sf, 3bd/3.5ba with large office, living room, 

family room, dining room, kitchen with granite, and a billiard room. 

Guest home is 730+/-sf with a full kitchen and open floor plan. The 

barn is currently used as a shop. The 630+/-sf, covered porch has 

ceiling fans and heaters for year round entertainment. 

Offered at $3,490,000 

Vicky Costantini 

650.430.8425 | vcostantini@apr.com | www.vickycostantini.com 

492 Summit Road Emerald Hills 

Stunning, 4bd/3.5ba home with amazing street presence. High 

ceiling entry is surrounded by a very elegant living room and 

dining room. Character is spread all over this home from a 

diamond glass window, copper-topped bay, to a room long, 

built-in, bench seat. Large eat-in kitchen with top-of-the-line 

appliances. This home was specially built for its owner. 3-car 

garage and ample driveway. Offered at $1,999,999 

1180 Crompton Road Redwood City 

Absolutely gorgeous house on a quiet, tree-lined street! Built just 

10 years ago. High ceiling living room with open floor plan. 

Hardwood floors throughout entire house. Level backyard right 

off of gourmet kitchen and family room. 900+/-sf master 

bedroom with large walk-ins and huge master bath. Fenced front 

yard. Offered at $1,375,000 

View all of my listings and search the MLS at VickyCostantini.com 

Square footage, acreage, and other information herein, has been received from one or more of a variety of different sources. Such information has not been verified by Alain Pinel Realtors. If important to buyers, buyers should conduct their own investigation. 

apr.com | WOODSIDE 2930 Woodside Road 


Meet Our Community-Minded Realtors for Redwood City 

Vicky Costantini 

at Alain Pinel 

650-430-8425 – Born and raised 

in Redwood City, Vicky is known 

for her honesty and availability. 

She believes those qualities foster strong working 

relationships with her clients. In turn, those same 

clients have referred her to countless friends and 

relatives. With an approach that is simple yet 

effective, she treats every listing as if it is her 

first, and her clients know that they will get the 

very best effort as they enter into the purchase 

or sale of a home. Visit her online at www. 

vickycostantini.com. 

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. 

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. 

Buying or selling? 

Turn to one of these experts! 


Fundraiser to Keep ‘Danny G’ Dancing 

As the stereo played the Frank Sinatra lyrics 

“And that laugh that wrinkles your nose,” Danny 

Giray touched his nose, a move students on stage 

mimicked. 

The children went on to wiggle, dance in pairs 

and end with a dip and a smile. 

Such moves are just a part of the two 30-minute 

sessions students at John Gill Elementary School 

in Redwood City spend with Giray, or Danny 

G, as the kids call him. For 11 years, the dance 

program has been part of John Gill. Because of 

budget cuts, it’s now one of the few defined times 

when students have access to physical education. 

Parent donations and fundraising efforts have kept 

the program in place. With further cuts hitting the 

district, the program is once again in danger. 

On Saturday, March 6, the Parent Teacher 

Association hopes to raise most of the funds to 

keep Danny G working with the children with 

“Let ’em dance and sing,” a fundraiser to be held 

at Domenico Wines in San Carlos. Last year, the 

PTA was able to raise $50,000. This year’s goal is 

$30,000. That would not fully fund the program. 

In years past, the school was able to use site funds to 

cover the rest of the cost, said Principal Amanda 

Kemp. With the Redwood City School District 

looking at up to $13.7 million in cuts, Kemp is 

unsure such an allocation will be a reality next year. 

“Any time with Danny is better than no time 

at all,” Kemp said, noting that the program may 

need to be scaled back in the fall. 

Parents are working to save the program 

through the fundraiser, the biggest one of the year. 

The auction and dinner will be augmented by a 

raffle-ticket fundraiser with $5 tickets for three 

grand prizes, one of which includes four one-day 

park-hopper passes to Disneyland. Organizers are 

hoping to sell 1,000 tickets. They estimate the sale 

is close. 

It’s not just about dance. Kemp was quick to 

point out the student benefits of working with 

Giray. Not only do the units supplement academic 

work, the kids learn confidence. 

“You can tell my kids; there is not a timid bone 

in one of their bodies,” she said. 

With so many cuts out of the school’s hands, 

holding on to the one program is a glimmer of 

happiness the administration and parents hope to keep. 

Younger children work with Giray two times 

a week for 30 minutes, while older kids see him 

once a week for an hour. On Tuesdays, children 

file into the multipurpose room ready to play. The 

smaller ones are visibly tired at the end of 30 

minutes but end up exercising without really noticing 

it. Giray works in crunches and sprints, but with 

the music as a backdrop, the work goes unnoticed 

by the little ones who happily follow his lead. 

“I believe we’re building up self-esteem,” said 

Giray, who has been working with the school for 

11 years. 

Building self-esteem is reinforced by mixing in 

academic teaching. Giray leads the children in a 

version of the ABCs that includes a slithering “I” 

and a jumping “O.” But lessons get more in-depth, 

like a movement work that recreates windmills, 

originally choreographed a couple of years ago 

and reworked by Giray because of student interest 

in renewable energy. 

Craig Guinasso has a son in kindergarten who 

announced he would not do two things when he 

started school: dance or sing. Guinasso and his wife 

noticed a change of heart when their son started 

moving around at home along with his younger sister. 

The change was a result of access to Giray’s class. 

Many students stay with dance because of 

Giray, said Kemp, who noted he maintains the 

students’ interest while advancing the difficulty. 

“I’m hoping above all hopes to keep this 

program intact,” she said. 

Raffle tickets are $5 per ticket, five for $20, 

12 for $40, or 30 for $100. Auction tickets are 

$75. Tickets can be ordered and auction items 

previewed at auction.johngillpta.org. 


newspaper. 

Danny Giray teaches dance moves to a group of students 

at John Gill Elementary School in Redwood City. 

Mayor Ira Is ‘Tapping’ Us to Be Code Enforcement Volunteers 

Mayor Jeff Ira, seen here helping firefighter Justin 

Velasquez during the annual Toy Drive, is encouraging 

our community to help with code enforcement. 

Redwood City is looking for a few good men — 

and women. 

Actually, the city is seeking anyone wanting to 

help keep it clean and up to code as a volunteer 

enforcement officer. The program is already under 

way, having started in 2008, but the current shaky 

economy, including Redwood City’s own bottom 

line, sharpened the city’s desire to expand its 

current roster. 

“This is a great way for community members 

to get involved and help supplement services that 

otherwise would be delayed or deferred due to the 

city’s budget problems,” said Mayor Jeff Ira. 

Even if residents aren’t drawn to code 

enforcement, Ira asks that they consider 

volunteering in other ways, such as sports, 

libraries and nonprofits. 

“Everyone can and should do their part to help their 

community during this tough economy,” Ira said. 

Known as community preservation volunteers, 

participants serve as “ambassadors” for Redwood 

City’s Building and Inspection Division. The 

program already has seven trained volunteers 

who’ve collectively spent more than 500 hours 

helping out. Now the city is looking for more. 

Volunteers help enforcement staff with 

community preservation projects, code enforcement 

research and visual assessments. Once trained, 

they ride along with Building and Inspection 

Department staff members and help with specific 

cases. The volunteers answer calls about abandoned 

cars and cleanup of garbage and work with officers to 

enforce sign ordinances. Other duties can include, 

as needed, reports of graffiti and shopping carts 

and preliminary investigations into non–health 

and safety code violations. 

Code enforcement isn’t the only place the 

city uses volunteers directly for its benefit. The 

downtown Volunteers in Policing program trains 

people to give the police department extra eyes 

and ears during events. 

Both programs let volunteers take up tasks that 

in turn free up precious staff time that can be 

used elsewhere. While helpful, there are limits. 

“Any financial savings are small and we can’t 

have volunteers doing skilled labor type of work,” 

said city spokesman Malcolm Smith. 

Rather, Ira, in his recent State of the City 

address, urged community members to serve 

themselves by finding their passion and getting 

involved in whatever is “tapping them on the 

shoulder,” Smith said. 

As a result, community will be built on a block, 

a neighborhood or a larger scale, Smith said. 

For more information or to sign up as a 

community preservation volunteer, contact Michel 

Wayne at 650-780-7357 or mwayne@redwoodcity. 

org. Information on other opportunities to get 

involved can be found at www.redwoodcity.org/ 

residents/communityopportunities.html. 


As I Was Saying…(Continued from p6) 

up. Foreclosures are up. Requests for emergency food and housing assistance 

are up. Many families in our community have lost the security of knowing 

they can pay their bills, put food on the table and keep a roof over their heads. 

Yet these are not hopeless times.” 

Who could not agree with that? 

“Our local economy is slowly showing signs of a turnaround. And the spirit 

of helping others is strong. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, ‘Life’s 

most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?’” 

Sounds logical to me. 

He then goes on to inform us that “As an organization, San Mateo County 

this year partnered with the Silicon Valley Community Foundation to fund 

$1 million in grants to community organizations that provide food, shelter, 

health care and other needs. Our county has sponsored resource fairs to help 

members of our community prepare to re-enter the job market and find social 

services. Just this past month the county helped more than 3,000 families 

with one-time emergency assistance funds from the American Recovery and 

Reinvestment Act.” 

In other words he is telling us that we, the taxpayers, funded all these 

wonderful programs and events, not San Mateo County or its employees, as an 

organization, as the letter would lead us to believe. 

“I’m proud of the work our county government does. I’m also proud of our 

collaborative network of nonprofit partners that provide so many vital services 

that strengthen our communities.” … “By working together, I am confident 

we can provide the resources necessary to support our families and neighbors 

through these challenging times.” 

Now, get this, he then encouraged all of us “During this holiday season, 

[to] please consider volunteering at a charity, donating to a cause and creating 

opportunities for others.” 

Is he serious? I have never read anything so self-serving and misleading. 

Who does he think he is, trying to encourage us to get involved? Us, the 

taxpayers who gave the county the money so he can brag about how much 

they do for us? 

If I could suggest a different tactic for future letters, it would read something 

like this: On behalf of the taxpayers of San Mateo County, we (your elected, 

appointed and hired staff) are proud to inform you that we have put your hardearned 

money to good use to benefit others, blah, blah, blah, blah. 

I would also suggest he inform us of what personal donations he has made 

and what he has done to volunteer and give back to the taxpayers of San 

Mateo County. Oh, and maybe guarantee us that the county will not try to 

bring any new business or sales or taxes until we know we can all pay our 

bills, put food on the table and keep a roof over our heads. 

Oh, he also wished “you and your family the best this holiday season.” 

Same to you, David. 

.… 

According to officials at the Peninsula Celebration Association (PCA), they 

do not have the $50,000 needed to put on the annual Fourth of July fireworks 

display this year. The PCA also organizes the parade (as it has for 41 years) 

and festival. 

According to PCA spokesman Bob Slusser, “The PCA knew as early as 

2007 that the weakening economy might put the brakes on the fireworks. The 

group continued through 2008 and 2009 by using reserves and other savings, 

but after last season informed the Redwood City Council that there might not 

be another show. 

“This is a very difficult decision for us. We scraped the money together last year 

but told the council we couldn’t keep doing this,” Slusser told a local newspaper. 

In case you didn’t know, the PCA is a very productive and valuable asset 

to our community. They have consistently provided a great Independence 

Day celebration for us year after year. But the group has gone and is still 

going through some organizational challenges. Many groups go though 

similar difficulties when longtime members do not relinquish or alter their 

responsibilities and welcome new members to take over. They unintentionally 

become exclusive instead of inclusive. 

But the biggest challenge the PCA has to overcome is the impression that 

they have been very uncooperative in listening to requests from community 

members and business owners to move the parade and festival back to the 

downtown area where it was held for some 30-plus years. After the location 

had been moved during downtown construction, it was never moved back, 

and local merchants have complained of lost revenues due to the lack of foot 

traffic from having the event by the county parking structure and buildings. 

Ultimately, the PCA is going to have to reach out to those dissatisfied to 

help raise funds because they can’t look for the City Council to bail them out 

and pay for the fireworks. Those funds are dwindling, and once the council 

sets a precedent of helping out one nonprofit group like PCA, they will have 

every other similar group in our community asking them to do the same for 

their financially strapped events. 

I suggest they move the parade and festival back downtown, and let’s all get 

started on a community fundraising drive to continue the fireworks show. Let’s 

turn this into a positive for our community and unite. How about it, PCA? 

Here we go again. The Redwood City community is invited to comment on 

the new downtown precise plan. Officials say that you and I can help shape 

our downtown’s future land use, urban design and development — to create a 

unique and vibrant downtown for today and the future. 

What do we have to do? Well, first we can hear an update on the downtown 

precise plan Monday, March 22, at 7 p.m. at the City Council meeting. Then, 

if you want to comment on what environmental issues should be evaluated in 

the plan’s environmental impact report, we can go on Tuesday, March 30, at 

7 p.m. to the Planning Commission meeting. Both meetings of course are at 

City Hall at 1017 Middlefield Road. 

This really is an exciting process and hopefully a large portion of our 

community will come out and share ideas and thoughts. Remember, you can 

always watch at home on cable channel 27. For more information, call 650- 

780-7234 or visit redwoodcity.org/preciseplan. 

I like channel surfing, but I might just have to attend these meetings. How 

often can you say you were actually a part of the future planning of what our 

downtown will be? What about you? 

As I was saying… 

.… 

.… 

Care to comment on Penna’s comments? 

Send your letters to: letters@spectrummagazine. 

net or Opinions & Letters, The Spectrum Magazine, 

P.O. Box 862, Redwood City, CA 94064 

Letters to the editor should be no longer than 300 words. 

Columns should be no longer than 750 words. Illegibly 

written and anonymous letters will not be accepted. 

Please include a daytime phone number where we can 

reach you. 


Insurance Tips: Checking With Your HR Department 

By Russ Castle, Special to The Spectrum 

The human resources department 

at your company is probably pretty 

efficient, but no matter how wellorganized 

it is, certain questions 

are always worth asking yourself at 

the beginning of the year. 

For example, when was the last time your HR 

department took steps to review your company 

policies and bring them up to date with the everchanging 

employment laws? 

Company policies are important enough that 

they are typically covered in detail during the 

hiring process. However, employees often forget 

or become lax with company policies over time. 

Here are a few ideas that will help you and 

your HR department to reinforce those policies 

effectively with your staff: 

Lead by example. 

If you are bending the rule of a 30-minute lunch 

break or using vulgar language with other 

employees, it is likely that other employees are not 

going to take company policies very seriously. Set 

a good example and follow the rules! 

Use meetings as a reminder. 

You are likely to have most of your staff together 

for company meetings, or at least portions of the 

staff at different meetings, so use this time to 

reinforce policies that you see being abused or 

overlooked during the course of the work day. 

Discuss before hiring. 

New employees should always be adequately 

informed of company policies and procedures 

upon hiring. Before ending your final interview, 

be sure to go over the most essential company 

policies, so a new employee knows them before 

the first day of work. If you have a company 

handbook, make sure that everyone has an 

updated and current edition. 

Keep current. 

Check with your attorney to ensure that your 

company policy is up to date. 

Have a conversation with your 

insurance agent or broker. 

Make sure you have the proper insurance 

coverage in case a legal action is brought against 

you and your company. Prudent business owners 

seek to have as much knowledge as possible to 

promote and protect their companies. Ignoring or 

avoiding this discussion can be disastrous to your 

company. Employment-related lawsuits are on the 

rise, and the cost to defend claims can easily reach 

$100,000 and more. 

Be sure you are consistent with how you 

handle each employee who does not follow the 

regulations of the company. This is essential 

to ensure that you do not experience any 

unnecessary backlash with regard to the policies. 

Editor’s note: This article was written by Russ Castle of 

Castle Insurance Agency. If you have any questions regarding 

your business protection, call him at 650-364-3664. 

Senior Activities 

The Veterans Memorial Senior 

Center, 1455 Madison Ave., 

Redwood City, is providing the 

following activities that are open to the 

public during the month of March. 

Friday Movies for Everyone 

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

Come to the VMSC in March for a free featured 

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

March 5: “Whip It” 

March 12: “My One and Only” 

March 19: “The Informant” 

March 26: “Old Dogs” 

Healthy Aging Lecture 

Thursday, March 11, 1–2 p.m. 

Dr. Eric Shapira, a clinical gerontologist and 

educator, will speak about healthy aging. He will 

cover ways to stay healthy and independent, enjoy 

life and overcome challenges associated with aging. 

St. Patrick’s Lucky Irish Luncheon 

Wednesday, March 17, 12–1:15 p.m. 

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a corned beef and 

cabbage lunch and a 50/50-opportunity drawing 

to complete this lucky luncheon. Please call 650- 

780-7259 to reserve your tickets. Cost: $8. 

AARP Driver’s Safety Course 

Saturdays, March 13 and March 20, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. 

This course is designed especially for drivers 

age 50 and over. Taking this course may help you 

receive a discount from your auto insurance. You 

can sign up at the VMSC front desk or by calling 

650-780-7270 and pressing #2. Leave your name 

and number, and a staff or volunteer will call you 

back to confirm your spot. Space is limited, so 

sign up early! Cost is $12 for AARP members, 

$14 for nonmembers. 

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction 

Thursday, March 25, 1–2 p.m. 

Join Julie Forbes, Ph.D., of Kaiser Permanente 

and experience for yourself how stretching and 

other relaxation techniques can help you manage 

symptoms of stress-related conditions, including 

chronic pain, anxiety and depression. 

AARP Tax Preparation 

Wednesday, Feb. 3, through Wednesday, April 14 

Appointment required 

Service is provided for the preparation and electronic 

filing of both federal and state personal income 

tax returns within the scope of the AARP Tax-Aide 

program. The service is free and you will receive 

one-on-one attention from AARP volunteers who 

are trained and certified annually in cooperation 

with the IRS. Call our AARP appointment hotline 

at 650-489-6023 to schedule your appointment. 

SAVE THE DATE 

West Bay Community Band 

Spring Concert 

Saturday, April 24, 7:30–9:30 p.m. 

Enjoy the sounds of spring, compliments of the 

West Bay Community Band! Doors will open 

at 7 p.m. with a no-host wine/soda bar, and the 

concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. Cost is $10 at the 

door. No reservations or tickets required; pay at door. 

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 Web site is www. 

redwoodcity.org/parks. 


A Minute With: Gino Gasparini 

Gino Gasparini was born and raised in Redwood City. He attended Roosevelt Elementary, 

Kennedy Junior High and San Carlos High School (class of 1970). After graduating, he went to 

work for BFI as a residential collection employee. He stayed there for 32 years before moving 

to Norcal Waste Systems, which is now Recology, six years ago. 

Gino and his wife, Jenny, were married in 1986. They have four children: Andriana, 19, 

Daniel, 18, Michael, 17, and Nicholas, 15. 

Gino’s hobbies include hiking and skiing. He is an active member of the Police Activities 

League (PAL), the Redwood City–San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce and the city’s 

Pride and Beautification committee. 

Currently the community affairs manager at Recology, Gino is also a team captain for the 

chamber’s current membership drive. 

How Irish are you? 

Very Italian. 

Favorite thing to do to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day? 

Every year, I have been skiing. 

You love Redwood City because? 

Of the people. 

Whom do you most admire? 

My father and mother. 

What talent would you most like to have? 

To be a good bocce ball player. 

Something few know about you? 

I was a two-time nude relay winner when I was at 

San Carlos High School. Obviously I cannot run 

for political office now. 

What word or phrase do you most overuse? 

Absolutely. 

Favorite song? 

“Stormy Monday” by Lee Michaels. 

Favorite movie? 

“My Favorite Year.” 

What is your motto? 

We can do it! 

Anyone you got on your mind? 

Always my family. 

Memorable moment? 

First child being born and then every other one 

after that. 

First word that comes to mind? 

Sushi. 

You still can’t believe? 

Jenny has stayed with me for all these years. 

What is your idea of perfect happiness? 

Family and friends at a barbecue. 

What or who is the love of your life? 

Jenny. 

You currently feel? 

Quite content. 

You are inspired by? 

My mother and father. 

Never late for the Theatre 

when you eat at Little India. 

All You Can Eat Lunch 

Mon - Fri 11am - 2pm 

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 


Refreshed... 

Renewed... 

Rejuvenated. 

Before 

After 

Before 

After 

Actual Patients 

DOT Therapy 

DOT Therapy 

Please visit our website at www.rejuvenateskincare.net 

From the moment we are born, we begin the aging process. We now know that high potency 

antioxidants and nutrients slow down the inflammation process that leads to disease and 

premature aging. It is now possible to determine individual genetic vulnerabilities by a simple 

DNA swab. From the results of this affordable test, we are now able to determine the exact combination 

of minerals, vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants right for each person to support a long 

and healthy life. Imagine—no more guessing. Start assessing! Of course, all testing is HIPPA compliant. Why wait 

another day? We now have a custom DNA based skin repair serum available. Made ME just exclusively for you! 

Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation. 

What’s new? DOT Therapy fractional CO2 laser resurfacing! If you have spent years in the sun, you know what it 

has done to your skin. Wrinkles, discoloration, sunspots, and skin laxity may all be reduced or eliminated with the 

DOT treatment. And, if you have acne scarring, you may be a candidate as well. 

Thermage ® – Pinnacle Status 

Restylane ® /Perlane ® – Platinum Level – Advisory Board 

Botox Training Center 

In addition to the new DOT fractional CO2 laser, we offer Botox , 

Fillers, Skin Tightening by Thermage ® , Contouring by Thermage ® , 

Laser Hair and Vein Removal, Laser Skin Resurfacing, Brown Spot 

Treatments, Medical Microdermabrasion, Medical Peels and Leg Vein 

Sclerotherapy. We carry many medical skincare product lines including 

SkinCeuticals, CosMedix, La Roche-Posay, and DNA Health 

Institute, and now, GeneWize custom skin repair serum. 

Re: Juvenate Skincare Clinic is a full service, 

non-surgical rejuvenation center. 

www.rejuvenateskincare.net 

Sherna Madan, M.D., 

Medical Director 

Linda S. Moore, R.N., 

Clinical Director 

Lin Brodt, 

Administrator 

Lindsey Richards, M.E. 

RE: JUVENATE, INC 

1100 Laurel Street 

Suite F 

San Carlos, CA 94070 

650.631.5700

Barry Jolette - The Spectrum Magazine - Redwood City's Monthly ...

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