General_Excellence_030310 by The Los Altos Town Crier

Andersons review ‘super sedans.’

St. Francis wins in CCS quarterfinals. Sports, Page 21

On the Road, Page 41

www.losaltosonline.com Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Community news for Los Altos, Los Altos Hills and Mountain View since 1947

Tightening the knob Efforts under way to curb Los Altos Hills’ excessive water consumption

Vol. 64 No. 9 • 50 cents

Change in trash service spurs debate By Jana Seshadri Town Crier Staff Writer

The Bay Area Water Supply and Conservation Agency (BAWSCA) released its annual report in January stating that Los Altos Hills residents used 334 gallons of water per person, per day in 2009. Not only is that tops among the 27 Bay Area cities surveyed,

fter 58 years of hauling, discarding and recycling Los Altos’ trash, Recology Los Altos, formerly known as Los Altos Garbage Company, has been sidelined in favor of a new waste disposal provider. And some residents are not happy about it. The Los Altos City Council voted unanimously Feb. 23 to support a staff recommendation to award the city’s waste management contract to the Santa Clara-based Mission Trail Waste Systems, which has been in business for 80 years and currently serves 250,000 residential customers. Pending official approval of the contract, Mission Trail will begin service in September, when the city’s 10-year contract with Recology expires. “We set out to get the best deal we could,” Councilman Lou Becker said. “We set the

See WATER, Page 6

See GARBAGE, Page 4

PHOTOS BY ELLIOTT BURR/TOWN CRIER

The Los Altos Hills City Council formed the water conservation committee, above, last year to advise the council on ways to implement ordinances that help reduce water consumption in town. From left, Jean Struthers, Bill Krause, Chairman John Harpootlian, Peter Evans, Kathleen Santora, Kit Gordon, Lysbeth Goodman and Brian Holtz discuss water conservation at their Feb. 24 meeting.

By Elliott Burr Town Crier Staff Writer

os Altos Hills residents are accustomed to seeing their town near the top of impressive nationwide rankings: eighth-priciest zip code, fourth-high-

est median home price for a city of less than 10,000 people and third-highest median income. But for the second year in a row, Los Altos Hills sits atop a less-glamorous list: A survey ranks it as the Bay Area’s most watergluttonous city.

In surprise move, LA council postpones visioning process By Jana Seshadri Town Crier Staff Writer

n a move some saw as a setback to the downtown revitalization process, the Los Altos City Council Feb. 23 voted 3-2 to postpone a downtown visioning process until the 2010-2011 budget cycle, which begins July 1. The city had engaged Anderson Brulé Architects to conduct workshops beginning this month soliciting residents’ input on the elements they would like to see in

a renovated downtown. Mayor David Casas, Councilman Ron Packard and Councilwoman Val Carpenter voted to delay the process. Councilwoman Megan Satterlee and Councilman Lou Becker cast dissenting votes after urging fellow councilmembers to reconsider. “It will be a mistake to postpone this,” Satterlee said. “We have a lot of momentum going on now. We authorized this before and should go forward with it.” Several local residents ex-

pressed dismay at the council’s unexpected decision. “I’m visibly shocked by the decision you just made,” said Bill Maston, architect and member of the Downtown Development Committee. The postponement might lead residents to think councilmembers do not trust them to participate in the process effectively, several speakers said. “I hope you’ll move forward expeditiously with the visioning process so people will feel

that they’re engaged in a transparent process, u n d e r st a n d what’s going on and that their thoughts are Casas w e l c o m e ,” said Kim Cranston, downtown property owner. While the city council voted 4-1 to approve the visioning workshops in November, the request for an

additional $17,750 to increase the consultant’s fee to $72,750 caused some councilmembers to question whether the price was too high. “I completely understand the premise and value the staff’s opinion. But my concern is purely financial,” said Casas, the sole nay vote last November for the visioning process. “We should think about how we can accomplish this at a fraction of the cost with a higher return on investment.” See POSTPONED, Page 7

Page 2 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

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LA negotiates on First and Main site The Los Altos City Council has entered an exclusive 120-day negotiation with a developer for the property at First and Main streets. Page 4

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Library parcel tax receives go-ahead

131 Plaza North, Los Altos 600 SF next to Maltby’s. Service use allowed. 99¢ per sq. ft.

Local residents will likely face a pricier parcel tax in coming months to support Los Altos Library operating hours. Page 5

Not your parents’ playground

LAH City Council candidates declare early

Modern advances in play structures make the backyard a luxurious and imaginative wonderland for children. Page 25

Los Altos Hills residents Joan Sherlock and Gary Waldeck plan to run for Los Altos Hills City Council in November. Page 11

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Los Altos School District may cut teaching staff The Los Altos School District is

ALSO INSIDE Business & Real Estate . . 45 Classified. . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Comics & Puzzles . . . . . . 40 Comment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Community . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Datebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Letters to the Editor . . . . . 8 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

FOR LEASE-OFFICE NEW 167 S. San Antonio Road, Los Altos

On the Road . . . . . . . . . . 41 Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Sidewalk Interview . . . . . . 9 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Stepping Out . . . . . . . . . . 36 Stock Index . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Transactions . . . . . . . . . . 45 Your Kids . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

weighing whether teachers receive pink slips before the March 15 deadline. Page 19

New ice cream shop tantalizes taste buds Kathy and Elliott Dahan, coowners of Rancho Shopping Center’s new Los Altos Creamery, welcome a flood of youngsters after school. Page 45

Our Homemade Soups all now packaged and frozen for you to enjoy at home, anytime! Maltby’s Restaurant Corner of State & 4th Streets Tel: 650-917-8777 www.maltbys.com

March 3, 2010 / Los Altos Town Crier / Page 3

News News Brief

City to negotiate with one developer for sale of First-Main site By Jana Seshadri Town Crier Staff Writer

Los Altos appoints new commissioners The following residents have been appointed to Los Altos commissions. • Planning commission: Jeannie Bruins and Jerry Moison. • Traffic commission: Richard Baer and James Chiang. • Parks, arts and recreation commission: Shannon Kilgore.

Police Blotter Injury accident Feb. 26, 8:45 p.m., intersection of Almond Avenue and Gordon Way: A 17-yearold pedestrian crossing the street was struck by a Chevy Suburban. The victim, who sustained moderate, nonlife-threatening injuries, was transported to the hospital. An investigation is ongoing and police issued no citations. Malicious mischief Feb. 22, 8:13 a.m., 1500 block of Holt Avenue: Los Altos Police Officer Neal Randles reported that unknown suspects vandalized the men’s restroom in Grant Park. Towel dispensers were torn off the wall and toilet paper was strewn over the floor. Feb. 25, 5 p.m., 400 block of University Avenue: Los Altos Police Officer Brent Butler reported that unknown individuals spray painted a drinking fountain in Shoup Park. Identity theft Feb. 26, 1:09 p.m., 600 block of Springer Road: Los Altos Police Officer Chris Fowlie took a report of suspects attempting to use the victim’s information to open online accounts. Driving violations Feb. 22-28: Los Altos Police cited one driver for driving without a license, two drivers for driving with suspended licenses and seven drivers for driving under the influence.

espite residents’ support for deferring a decision on the future of the city-owned property at the corner of First and Main streets, the Los Altos City Council Feb. 23 authorized Mayor David Casas to sign an Exclusive Right to Negotiate Agreement with a single developer, the Jeffrey A. Morris Group, for up to 120 days for sale or lease of the land. The council also postponed the downtown visioning process at the same meeting, leading a number of residents, committee members and property owners to question the council’s lack of transparency and failure to solicit sufficient public input before making crucial downtown decisions.

Situated at a prime entrance to the downtown area, the property is a cornerstone of downtown Los Altos, several speakers said. Although the council and city officials have encouraged public input on downtown development matters, the decision to engage with a single developer appears to be at odds with their call for inclusiveness in the process, they said. “It seems disingenuous to hold negotiations behind what appears to be a series of closed sessions when you seek public input,” said Robin Abrams, chairwoman of the Los Altos 2025 Committee, a group examining Los Altos’ long-term development. The public should weigh in on the decision, Abrams said, and it’s premature

GARBAGE

Developer Jeffrey A. Morris Group, Inc. has an exclusive right to negotiate agreement with the city of Los Altos regarding the property at First and Main streets, which sits at the entrance to downtown. ELLIOTT BURR/ TOWN CRIER

See PROPERTY, Page 5

Wind, rain rattle Los Altos

From Page 1

ground rules at the very beginning when we requested proposals.” However, local residents and Recology officials expressed dismay at the council’s decision to bypass a company they say has a longstanding record of quality service. “Recology has always been about community partnership,” said Nancy Dunaway, executive director of the Los Altos Village Association. “It’s impossible to quantify their value.” “They are wonderful, no problems at all,” said longtime resident Ed Berwick. “The microcosm of the lower-level employees talks highly of their upper management.” “We believe we’ve submitted a proposal addressing all the city’s requirements that resulted in lower costs and higher diversion rate,” said Recology General Manager John Zirelli. “We also included 11 value-added programs that were not considered.” Mayor David Casas agreed that Recology has provided quality service. But he noted that a request from the city a couple of years ago for single-stream recycling – a system in which all recyclables are mixed together in one bin – did not elicit a suitable response from the company. “It was out of that response that this door swung open about casting a net for requesting proposals,” Casas said. With a goal to obtain significantly higher waste-management service in a cost-effective manner, the city put out a bid last year, chose three proposals for further evaluation and judged them on four criteria: firm qualifications and references, technical proposal, cost proposal and diversion rate, according to Jim Gustafson, engineering services manager. An evaluation committee comprising three city staff members, Richard Tagore-Erwin of R3 Consulting Group from Sacramento and Steve Anderson, chairman of the Los Altos Environmental Commission, reviewed the propos-

Page 4 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

ELLIOTT BURR/TOWN CRIER

Los Altos maintenance crewmen, above, clear a downed tree branch on Foothill Expressway Feb. 26, one of three along the road that caused temporary traffic delays. Los Altos Parks Supervisor Damon Cockerham said the department received nine calls of downed trees, including one on Highway 280. Los Altos Police Capt. Andy Galea said dispatch received 24 calls between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Friday – “a pretty high number.” More than 4,000 homes in Los Altos went without power that day. als, made comparative studies, conducted interviews and completed its evaluation, ultimately recommending Mission Trail over the other two contenders, Recology and Green Waste Recovery Inc. “It was such a complicated contract,” said Anderson, the only Los Altos resident on the committee. “Even though I was pushing for Recology, Mission Trail won, and I’m pleased.” Anderson said Mission Trail edged out competitors by offering the lowest prices, the highest 78 percent rate diversion rate – the percentage of waste materials diverted from traditional disposal to be recycled, composted or reused no charge for weekly organic recycling in the downtown commercial zone and household hazardous waste pickup. In addition, Mission Trail offered a smaller

garbage can option at 7 percent savings from current rates, and enjoyed high customer satisfaction ratings in cities already served. Recology officials, however, claimed the process was neither fair nor transparent. Full disclosure of all parties’ proposals should have been made available to councilmembers, not just the data the evaluation committee deemed relevant, Zirelli said. With the negotiations process under way with Mission Trail, proposals from each of the competitive bidders remains confidential, city officials said, until negotiations are completed and the council approves the new contract. City staff is scheduled to return to the city council March 23 with a proposed contract for council approval. Contact Jana Seshadri at janas@latc.com.

News

GRAND OPENING

Library Authority gives parcel tax green light

A Full Service Salon at Loyola Corners

Town Crier Staff Report

nticipating an increase in operational costs, members of the North County Library Authority have given the go-ahead for a June 8 ballot proposition that would establish a new 20-year parcel tax. Pending two-thirds majority voter approval, the new parcel tax would levy $76 annually per developed parcel. The current tax, approved in 1990 and set to expire in tax year 2011-2012, charges $52 annually. The new tax would begin July 1, when the old one lapses. Supporters said the fee increase is necessary to maintain current hours at the Los Altos main and Woodland libraries. “If there were no parcel tax, we would immediately have to cut library hours,” said Los Altos City Councilwoman Megan Satterlee, who with Los Altos Hills City Councilman Jean Mordo sits on the North Library board. “This is just keeping things constant.” The proposed increase came after months of discussion, review of financial models and polling, Satterlee and Mordo said. The additional $24 per year would go toward staff salary increases brought by inflation, book purchases and underwriting elections costs. The Los Altos main library, one of the busiest in the Santa Clara County Library System, is currently open seven days, 66 hours, per week. The county library system pays for 53 of those hours. The NCLA parcel tax pays for 13 hours,

PROPERTY From Page 4

financially to enter into negotiations. City officials and council members said the city has pursued selling the First and Main site for several years, and the Morris Group’s interest could make a decision imminent. The time to negotiate is now, councilmembers said, and they want to strike while the iron is hot. “We have followed a public process,” said City Attorney Jolie Houston. “And this is not a done deal.” “We are not deciding on anything, just trying to reach an agreement,” said Councilman Lou Becker. “We need to get started

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which covers all day Monday and Tuesday mornings. The Woodland branch, currently undergoing renovation and repair, operates 39 hours and six days a week, with 20 hours paid through the county. Supporters said weekly Woodland hours would be reduced 19 hours, or 48 percent, without a parcel tax. Last fiscal year, Los Altos libraries sponsored 501 programs reaching all ages. Attendance at programs increased 9 percent over the prior year. Nancy Tucker of Los Altos, campaign coordinator for the parcel tax proposal, noted the widedowntown.” According to a report from City Manager Doug Schmitz, the Morris Group has expressed interest in developing a commercial building with retail and office uses and an underground parking structure. The 34,000-square-foot property, vacant since the consignment store closed, is currently zoned Commercial Service, although that zoning is pending a transition to Commercial Retail Sales, which would permit a two-story, 30-foot maximum height building with retail on the ground floor. “If we don’t pursue this, we’ll be chastised for it,” Councilwoman Megan Satterlee said. Given the recent approval of downtown commercial design

spread use of the local libraries. “The library is a vital community resource for everyone,” she said. “It is the community’s home-awayfrom-home.” The campaign’s challenge will be emphasizing this simple message, because the actual ballot language will not be as direct. The Gann Appropriations Limit, passed in the 1980s on the heels of Proposition 13, dictates that supporters of funding initiatives cannot ask for more than they need. This would be the case in the early years of the parcel tax, but would even out by the end of the 20-year period because of anticipated cost increases. Supporters are required by law to state such information in technical terms. Ballot language is due to the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters by March 12. The parcel tax election is open to all registered voters in Los Altos and Los Altos Hills. guidelines, the city can be assured of a nice building, said Councilwoman Val Carpenter, chairwoman of the Downtown Development Committee. Abigail Ahrens, member of the Downtown Development Committee, said the decision shocked many audience members at the council meeting. With the decision made, however, city officials should tread cautiously with negotiations and ensure that the gateway to downtown is attractive and appealing, speakers said. “Make it architecturally pleasing,” Ahrens said. “It needs to be a statement building.” Contact Jana Seshadri at janas@latc.com.

Voice your opinion Start a discussion online on any story you read at www. losaltosonline.com.

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Cover Story In addition to voluntarily removing one of his lawns and downsizing two others, Los Altos Hills resident Colin Knight, left, installed waterefficient drip irrigation in 2007 after town water fees jumped 61 percent.

WATER From Page 1

but it also marked an increase in the amount of water Hills residents used the previous year (320 gallons of water per capita). The agency acknowledged, however, that the high numbers could be attributed in part to the city’s small population and large properties (1-acre-minimum lot sizes). Gary Waldeck, president of the Purissima Hills Water District Board of Directors, said the city’s water use has been “mischaracterized.” Los Altos Hills has “many larger-sized lots, up to 40-plus acres,” Waldeck said. “Some have extensive landscaping. … Many customers raise crops (vineyards and orchards) – their use is clearly agricultural. Unfortunately, since there is usually only one water meter, the use is miscast as ‘domestic,’ and so distorts the statistics.” After three years of drought in California, Hills residents and officials alike concede that the city uses a lot of water and have been working to curb consumption since those 2008 figures were released. “We’re taking water conservation very seriously in this town, and we’ve spent considerable time discussing this topic,” Mayor Dean Warshawsky said. Peter Evans, member of the Los Altos Hills Water Conservation Committee, added, “I think our efforts are helping.” Waldeck agreed. “In the past three years, the Purissima Hills Water District’s conservation programs have resulted in a reduction in high-usage water demands,” he said. By the hand of bureaucracy The Los Altos Hills City Council appointed 11 members to the water conservation committee a year ago. Their mission: Advise the council on proposals for ordinances – based on Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 2006 AB 1881 model ordinance in effect Jan. 1 – to reduce water consumption. “We have talked in the past about being more aggressive in legislation through ordinances, but we didn’t have any teeth. Now we do, because it’s the law,” Councilman Jean Mordo said in March 2009 about the newly formed committee. In light of AB 1881, some Bay Area cities are mandating that residents reduce their lawn sizes. But Evans said downsizing lawns probably wouldn’t be pushed in the Hills. “Instead of a checklist that says, ‘Do this, this and this,’ we’re go-

Los Altos Hills Water Conservation Committee member Peter Evans, below, at a committee meeting last week, said town efforts to reduce consumption have helped over the past three years. A Bay Area Water Supply and Conservation Agency graph, below, shows that Los Altos Hills, served by the Purissima Hills Water District, uses the most water per capita of any of the 27 Bay Area cities surveyed. PHOTOS BY ELLIOTT BURR/TOWN CRIER

ing to say you can do anything you want to get (consumption down). … Telling people to have smaller lawns is a bit abrasive.” According to Purissima Hills Water District documentation, 10 percent of the district’s customers use 30 percent of the total water supply, and most of it, Evans said, goes toward landscaping. Each one of the city’s more than 8,000 residents uses approximately 374,000 gallons of water per year on irrigation alone. Such lavish use helps explain

“We’re taking water conservation very seriously in this town, and we’ve spent considerable time discussing this topic.” – Dean Warshawsky, Los Altos Hills mayor SOURCE: BAY AREA WATER SUPPLY AND CONSERVATION AGENCY

how the town is exceeding its annual water allotment from the Hetch Hetchy reservoir. If overuse continues, Evans said, the reservoir could cut the city’s water supply by as much as 40 percent. “As we get a better understanding of efficient landscaping, we can better provide advice,” Evans said. “We want to get where we can live with the allotment even in a good year.” Waldeck said Hetch Hetchy fixed the city’s annual allotment at 800,000 units (the equivalent of just under 2 million gallons), but that was 25 years ago. The allotment,

Page 6 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

he said, wasn’t made with the city’s growth in mind. “The number chosen then did not account for the high relative growth that the town has experienced when compared with our neighbors (two to three times more),” Waldeck said. “And so, usage might well be expected to be higher than the allocation.” Evans said educational forums, brochures and publicity all help to reduce consumption, but any ordinances that the city council could eventually enact wouldn’t affect current properties – only new construction.

There’s simply no time to enforce past construction. “We’re all volunteers up here,” said Evans, who, like most of the committee members, has a fulltime job. Evans said all homeowners in town have an electric meter capable of displaying more in-depth data to help them analyze where the water is going and what can be done to reduce consumption. The meters can also detect leaks in residents’ pipes. “There is a lot that can be done with information,” Evans said.

Taking a toll When education and ordinances fail, persuasion may be found in financial penalties. Los Altos Hills residents already pay some of the highest water rates in the state, but the Purissima Hills Water District is scheduled to discuss raising the town’s water rates even higher at its March 10 board of directors meeting. Bill Krause, water conservation committee member, said, “Rate hikes are the most fundamental way to lower water use.” But Waldeck said rate hikes aren’t meant to alter behavior, although it could be a byproduct. They’re meant more to cope with rate hikes from the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, from which the town draws, along with some from a Hetch Hetchy reservoir turnout in Yosemite, 100 percent of its supply. Water rate hikes are “to ensure that, in a time of rising costs, the district will be able to deliver high-quality water,” Waldeck said. “When costs exceed revenues as we have now, an increase in rates is required.” According to a recent letter from the water district, the cost of 50 units of water (the equivalent of more than 37,000 gallons) would rise from $166.50 to $244.25 – a 47 percent increase. Three hundred units would cost $2,427.25, up from $1,944 – a 25 percent increase. Hills residents currently have a tiered rate based on consumption. In 2007, rates increased 61 percent, Waldeck said, and the more prodigious users are charged more than lower-consuming users. Los Altos Hills resident Colin Knight, who moved to Los Altos Hills in 1960, said he plans to protest See WATER, Page 7

Cover Story

Birthdays Celebrations

Happy 90th Birthday to Marguerite L. King!

March 3rd

This is a very special birthday wish for a very wonderful person. Thank you for enriching our lives with your sparkling, cheerful, fun-loving self! We celebrate you and wish you the very best 90th Birthday! With much love from your children: Kathy, Lu, Rich, Ed, Margi, Maria.

ELLIOTT BURR/TOWN CRIER

Los Altos Hills resident Steve Schmidt and his dogs, Sirius, left, and Shuma, play on the artificial turf lawn in his backyard, which he installed two years ago to reduce his family’s water consumption.

WATER From Page 6

the new rate structure at the March 10 meeting. “It doesn’t seem fair to further penalize the lower users who have already cut back on their usage,” Knight said. One resident, who asked not to be identified, said, “I’m a big fan of pricing water at what it really costs to us in the environment. Baseline water should be cheap because it’s a human right. Once you go beyond (what is necessary), it should be more expensive.” Krause even floated the idea of passing an ordinance that halts development, though he admitted it probably wouldn’t pass. “I’m not into popularity,” Krause said. “I’m into doing what’s right.”

POSTPONED From Page 1

Anne Stedler, economic development coordinator for Los Altos, said the visioning process resulted from a September meeting where city officials wanted to confirm that comments on a downtown vision reflected community sentiment. Some councilmembers expressed reservations that specialinterest groups and stakeholders would present their input during the visioning workshops, but the general public might not come forward with opinions. The city’s goal is to reach as many residents as possible, councilmembers said. Becker, who supported the visioning process, disagreed. Spe-

It takes a village Since 2007, Knight said he has reduced his own consumption as a result of fee hikes. Of his three lawns, he got rid of one and decreased the size of another by 65 percent and the third by approximately 15 percent. He also replaced most of his landscaping with drought-tolerant Mediterranean plants, watered by a drip irrigation system. His wife, Patricia, said their water use has nearly halved. “People don’t realize that you don’t need to water plants nearly as much as they do,” Patricia said. She waters her plants only once during the summer. Regardless of legal mandates and fee hikes, town residents like the Knights have taken it on themselves to reduce their water consumption across the board. Despite all his efforts, Knight said his monthly bill still increases, but he

doesn’t know how much it would total without conservation measures in place. “Our bill keeps going up,” he said. “But it could have gone up a hell of a lot more.” Steve Schmidt, member of the town’s environmental initiatives committee, replaced his entire lawn with artificial turf two years ago. He said he also purchased low-flow sprinklers for other drought-tolerant vegetation, a new washer and dryer, low-flow toilets and an on-demand recirculation pump for heating tap water. It might seem pricey, but Schmidt said he received rebates from the Santa Clara Valley Water District for his purchases. Even so, Schmidt admitted that he kept some of his grassy lawn. “I just like the grass,” he said. Contact Elliott Burr at elliottb@latc.com.

cial-interest groups understand the problems and challenges of redevelopment and land use, he said, and valuable ideas could emerge from continuing the process now. City officials and councilmembers agreed that money was a problem. “It’s unfortunate that the city doesn’t have the budget to go forward with this now,” said Robin Abrams, chairwoman of the Los Altos 2025 Committee, a new grassroots group formed to anticipate the impact of changes 15 years into the future. She said she hoped that the high level of community-based interest and momentum in redevelopment of the downtown can be continued. In the big-picture view of some residents, revitalizing the down-

town means revenues to the city and schools will increase and Los Altos will become more sustainable as a community. The city’s budget process for the next fiscal year has already begun, and councilmembers are hopeful the visioning process – an unbudgeted project last year – will be a major budget item this year. City officials are confident they can rework the process to make it less expensive. “We’ve accomplished a lot in the last two years,” said James Walgren, Los Altos assistant city manager. “We already have a vision for downtown, the zoning is current and everything’s in place for development.” Contact Jana Seshadri at janas@latc.com.

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Comment Peek into the Past

Letters to the Editor In defense of smart meters In his Feb. 17 letter to the editor, Harald Herchen, Ph.D, did not take the time to read the PG&E Web site that describes how to read your smart meter before writing his rambling tirade. The smart meter has two displays, one is the cumulative kWh (used to determine your monthly bill) that Herchen described. There is also a second readout that gives the real-time power consumption to the nearest watt. This is the information Herchen was trying to calculate. This gives much more information than watching the spinning disk in the old meters. If you watched this display as someone in your house turned appliances off or on, you could see the power readout change. Bob Mathews Mountain View

Council should reverse Blach ‘experiment’ I applaud the Los Altos Traffic Commission’s decision to twice reject the proposal to redirect traffic from the rear entrance of Blach Junior High School to other major arteries (“Other Voices,” Kurt Ayers, Town Crier, Feb. 2). Guy Williams’ Feb. 9 letter to the editor implies that after Eastwood Drive’s closure to morning traffic, there was a “need for

a little privatization” on Carmel Terrace. How far will this go? Our traffic commission’s thoughtful decision of inaction was apparently sidestepped by the Los Altos City Council to conduct an “experiment” at Carmel Terrace and Altamead Drive. Other than the past five years of 41 documented accidents occurring on Covington and Grant roads and Miramonte Avenue Road during school hours (and none on Carmel Terrace), were there any further professional studies done to support this “experiment”? What has happened to traffic on Miramonte, Grant and Covington is either an accident or a road rage incident ready to happen, as children leap from their backed-up vehicles trying to make it to school on time. In our oft-times litigious society, if one student is injured because of this “experiment,” could the Los Altos taxpayers be liable if a lawsuit were to result? I urge the council to revisit and reverse this decision expeditiously. Steve Andrews Los Altos

Public input needed on new garbage contract Our family has been well served by Los Altos Garbage Company for 40 years. When I saw that the city was

Letters to the Editor The Los Altos Town Crier welcomes letters to the editor on current events pertinent to Los Altos, Los Altos Hills and Mountain View. Drop us a line at 138 Main St., Los Altos 94022, Attn: Editor, or e-mail letters to bruceb@latc.com. Because editorial space is limited, please confine letters to no more than 250 words. Please include a phone number for verification purposes. Anonymous letters will not be printed.

Courtesy of Lisa Robinson/Los Altos History Museum

This picture, circa the late 1930s, shows the corner of El Monte Avenue and Santa Maria Avenue (now Fremont Avenue). The sign to La Honda directs the traveler 21 miles up Moody Road and along Alpine Creek Road. Notice the railroad tracks, now Foothill Expressway.

inviting public comment on the garbage contract (Town Crier, Feb. 17), I knew I wanted to be there. Agenda item No. 12 asked the city council to accept the Evaluation Committee’s result and provide direction on its preferred provider, Mission Trails Waste Systems, and to direct staff to begin the franchise agreement negotiations. A summary report published on the city’s Web site Feb. 19 cited receiving three very responsive proposals: “All were well qualified and can provide a high level of services to the city,” it read. The report further stated, “The evaluation process revealed that the service levels and manner of delivering is generally similar among all three proposers. In all cases, all three proposers complied with the substantive requests of the RFP and provided the Evaluation

Committee with that information necessary to make an informed and comparable decision.” In a contest this close, it seemed premature for the council to proceed to negotiating the contract without accepting public input or answering residents’ questions, including one raised at the meeting that expressed what I was feeling: “If the results were so close, what is the point of changing contractors?” Why was the public invited for comments when in the end it seemed clear that the process had already delivered a selection? Barbara O’Reilly Los Altos

Water rate structure inequitable Under the new water rate structure proposed by the Purissima Hills Water District, the large majority of customers, who typically

use between 10 and 100 units per month, will see their water bills go up by between 35 percent and 47 percent. Surprisingly, customers using 150 units will see their bills go up by only 30 percent, and those using 300 units will fare even better with only 25 percent higher bills. This is inequitable and counterproductive to efforts to encourage water conservation by pricing. The Purissima Hills Water Board should consider rate adjustments to the higher usage tiers so that those with the highest water usage have their bills increased by no lesser percentage than that to be levied on any other customer. Customers of the district might be well advised to review the proposed rates and to consider lodging written protests prior to the water district board meeting on March 10. Colin Knight Los Altos Hills

The Los Altos Town Crier, ISSN 87504585, is published weekly every Wednesday by the Los Altos Town Crier Inc., 138 Main St., Los Altos 94022. Periodicals Postage Paid at Los Altos, CA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Los Altos Town Crier, 138 Main St., Los Altos CA 94022. The Los Altos Town Crier is an adjudicated newspaper of general circulation for Santa Clara County: Decree No. 328150. Yearly subscription rates in advance: Within County $20; Senior Citizen $15; Out of county $40.

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Editorial

Editor-in-Chief: Bruce Barton (301) bruceb@latc.com Managing Editor/Sports: Pete Borello (315) peteb@latc.com Special Sections/Schools editor: Traci Newell (316) tracin@latc.com Reporters: Mary Beth Hislop (318) marybethh@latc.com Jana Seshadri (317) janas@latc.com Copy Editors: Joan Garvin (copy chief) Colleen Schick Reporter/Photographer: Elliott Burr (313) elliottb@latc.com Page 8 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

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Comment

Sidewalk Interview What is your choice for Best Picture at the Academy Awards? (Asked in downtown Los Altos)

Searching for the stars within By Mary Beth Hislop

ne school of science admonishes human society to humble itself in the knowledge that all of us are mere ants in a sandbox the size of Earth, afloat in a heaven containing separate worlds that far outnumber the grains of sands on our own little planet. That instead of being the individual components in a grand design, we are the accidental product of molecular-level incidents that theoretically instigated the process of cellular evolution and life itself. Maybe they’re right. Maybe they’re wrong. It is, after all, a matter of perception. Common knowledge and religion once dictated that Earth was the center of the universe. Flash forward a few hundred years – technological advances now allow exploration of the heavens that isn’t limited to grounded instrumentation or observation – we now know our sun is the center of a single universe among an infinite number of others. Now what? What do we do with this knowledge? Do we acquiesce to scientists’ recommendations and embrace their speculations, thereby trivializing the importance of our existence? Do we bow to the theories of natural selection and survival of the fittest and minimize the sanctity of life? The science of space and the myriad discoveries we have uncovered have raised more questions than they have answered. And space exploration costs a lot of money. Last week, NASA officials contemplated the agency’s future priorities as it struggles with mission

setbacks due to government cutbacks – where to go, where to go? But nobody’s asking the really important question: Why do we want to go there? Are we searching for worlds that could sustain human life because we are on the brink of decimating our own? We really don’t have a good track record of taking care of those around us on this planet. Companies in one-half of the world rob the resources from developing countries where citizens survive on $2 a day. We are content to bulldoze food-bearing trees in favor of cementing over fertile ground. People packing weapons roam the streets, searching for targets to assuage their anger. Have we lost all faith in the value of our existence? I am not trying to diminish the capacity of our minds or curtail exploration beyond Earth’s terrestrial boundaries. I am merely suggesting that there is much here on this planet and within each self that deserves the priority of closer examination. Several months ago, I took a midnight walk on a cold, crisp and clear evening. The stars were so bright and sparkled with such intensity that I felt awe for the panorama of beauty above me – and I was a part of that beauty because I had the ability to appreciate it. And in that moment, with all those lights and the hugeness of the sky, I didn’t feel small at all. Rather, I was blessed with the knowledge that I had a very special seat right here on Earth that night. It is, after all, a matter of perception. Contact Mary Beth Hislop at marybethh@latc. com.

All of the Above

Probably “Avatar,” because of the graphics. We saw it in 3-D. Sarah and Reid Wagner Los Altos

I actually liked “The Hurt Locker.” It was extremely realistic, intense and the movie went by really quickly because it was so action-packed. Laura Dougherty Elliott, with Jake Los Gatos, visiting hometown

Blach traffic ‘experiment’ a success By Dave and Vivian McNulty Well, I saw “Inglourious Basterds” and “Avatar.” I say “Avatar,” because it wasn’t like any other film. You could never get bored with it. Janet Kemunto Mountain View

“Avatar.” I thought the complex animation was excellent and the 3-D made everything come to life. It was beautiful. Flavia Sheldija Mountain View

recent “Other Voices” article written by traffic commissioner Kurt Ayers (Town Crier, Feb. 2) complained that the Los Altos City Council stepped on the commission’s turf with a decision to try an “experimental” program to restrict student drop-offs on the streets behind Blach Junior High School. He further accused the neighborhood of attempting to privatize the streets. Is that what is really happening? What do residents want? Approximately 100 children walk and ride their bikes to Blach each day through our neighborhood, which has been designated by the Los Altos Police Department as a “Safe Route to School.” We want safety for these children. Why is this an issue? Until recently, another 100 children were being dropped off by automobile at the same location. This occurred at the intersection of two narrow neighborhood streets, which come together where a pedestrian bridge serves as the only back entrance to Blach. The drop-offs included driver behaviors such as pulling into residents’ driveways and backing out into traffic, students departing vehicles in the street, illegal U-turns, and more. All of this Blach traffic occurred at the same time as 200 additional children were traveling along the same streets via automobile to a private school less than 100 yards from the back entrance to Blach, and all of it occurred with the urgency of needing to get to school on time. This was a traffic nightmare.

Do residents really want “no traffic”? At every opportunity, our neighborhood has asked for a larger communitywide plan that addresses the needs of all the neighborhoods surrounding Blach and the need for students to get to school safely. We accept that our streets will have traffic, and we have only asked that it be our fair share. Above all, we want our “Safe Route to School” to be safe. What about the traffic commission? The neighborhood visited the commission on a number of occasions, each time with modifications to address enforceability and other issues. Each of our proposals to the commission was endorsed by a traffic engineer working for the city, and each was rejected by the commission. We asked for dialogue with commissioners. Since filing our petition over 2 1/2 years ago, no suggestions or solutions have been forthcoming from the traffic commission. What’s the situation now? “No Stopping” signs are preventing the drop-off of students, but really it’s the cooperation of Blach parents and staff that’s making the streets safer for the walkers and bike riders. Perhaps this will encourage more parents and students to walk and ride bikes to school. What’s next? The city council has directed that the results of this “experiment” be brought to them within a year for evaluation. In our opinion, this has been a laudable experiment in traffic safety. Dave and Vivian McNulty are residents of the Carmel Terrace/Altamead Drive neighborhood.

Other Voices

I like “Inglourious Basterds” and “An Education.” They’re both very different movies, but they’re both excellent. Paul Gonella Los Altos

“Avatar,” because it’s a groundbreaking film in 3-D. It has a compelling message and a great storyline about making peace with other people and living in harmony. Kedar Shah San Carlos, works in Los Altos

Interviews and photos by Mary Beth Hislop

March 3, 2010 / Los Altos Town Crier / Page 9

Auditions Coming Up For. . .

Second Annual Los Altos Talent Show Auditions: Satuday March 6 and Sunday March 7 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. both days Los Altos High School Band Room 201 Almond Avenue

All Ages May Audition! Must be Residents Los Altos/Los Altos Hills Instrumentalists • Vocal performances Comedy • Dance • Youth and Adult Participants Public Performance: Saturday April 10 @ 7:30 p.m. Los Altos High School Eagle Theater 201 Almond Avenue • Los Altos

A Fundraiser for High School Special Programs Sponsored by the

LOS ALTOS CULTURAL ASSOCIATION and

For entry form and information contact: Abbyalthoff@yahoo.com Michael@abrams4.com or call him at 954-5999 Page 10 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

Community

Early Los Altos Hills City Council candidates promote positive platforms Town Crier Staff Report

ost local residents who closely follow the actions of the Los Altos Hills City Council seem to agree: The town has been more productive over the past decade than at virtually any other time in its 50-plus-year history. Under council direction, the town has improved the town’s pathways system, built a new town hall, improved cell-phone coverage, built Little League fields and assumed management of the historical Westwind Community Barn. “It’s been a breeze,” said Jitze Couperus, who called the past eight years the best the town has had since he and his wife, Nancy, moved there in 1971. The Couperuses have long been active in town activities. “I think the word is ‘collegial,’ the way these guys work together,” he said of the current five-member board. “It’s been a joy to work with them.” Two of those five members, Breene Kerr and Dean Warshawsky, are leaving this year after serving two consecutive fouryear terms, the maximum allowed. That leaves two open seats in the Nov. 2 election. Two residents, Lockheed retiree Gary Waldeck and town native Joan Sherlock, have already committed to running. Both approve of the way the town has been operating and want to continue the productive

Waldeck

Sherlock

streak. Both consider improving emergency preparedness a priority in the town’s future. Waldeck, who moved to Los Altos Hills in 2004, called the town “the closest thing to a family environment I’ve ever seen.” The friendly and energetic Waldeck is a veteran engineer and manager who supports good planning and “taking a look at the big picture.” Waldeck, raised in Woodland, spent 35 years in management, retired and moved to town to be with his wife, Barbara Lamparter. “I retired so I could help Barbara,” he recalled. “She said, ‘You can best help me by finding something to do.’” That led to a 2006 get-together at Councilman Jean Mordo’s house and a start as a volunteer. Waldeck joined the board of directors for the Purissima Hills Water District and now serves as president. With

Waldeck on board, Purissima Hills has acquired two additional water sources in the event its main water supply from Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is cut off. He said emergency preparedness “is really something important. We’re right on top of the faultline. (The next big earthquake) is not if, it’s when.” As for his council philosophy: “I don’t like revolutionizing things – unless they’re well planned.” Sherlock has an edge on council protocol without having yet served – her husband is Kerr, who this year ends eight years on the council. “The things he’s accomplished for Los Altos Hills have been incredible,” Sherlock said. She comes from a family of community activists. Her father, Tom, was on the town council in the 1960s; her mother Trudy served on the planning commission. Born and raised in town, she’s seen the transition from a horse community to today’s bed-

room community for high-tech CEOs. The transition incited numerous conflicts among residents with distinctly different perspectives, which often played out at contentious council meetings. “It’s taken 20 years for it to settle down,” Sherlock said. “It’s difficult finding that happy medium (between desires of existing residents and new ones).” Sherlock said the council of the past eight years has accomplished just that. As a communications consultant and life coach, she’s confident she can maintain that happy medium on the council. Her goals include maintaining a “positive balance sheet” with the town budget, bringing people together to work out emergency preparedness plans and further improvements to the pathways network. “Building community is huge to me,” said Sherlock, who has started a Los Altos Hills Neighborhood Network, with each neighborhood appointing a resident to host a party where people can meet informally. In this environment, they establish rapport and exchange information that could prove vital in case of an emergency. Describing herself as organized and a good listener, Sherlock rationalized her involvement this way: “If you aren’t doing something (for the community), what are you doing?”

March 3, 2010 / Los Altos Town Crier / Page 11

Community PET OF THE WEEK

COURTESY OF PALO ALTO ANIMAL SERVICES

Dozer is a 5-month-old pit bull found wandering alone at a park in Palo Alto. According to Palo Alto Animal Services employees, Dozer is sweet, playful and outgoing. He would require a dog-training class and an owner with prior pit bull experience. Dozer has been neutered, microchipped and fully vaccinated. To meet Dozer and other shelter animals, visit Palo Alto Animal Services, 3281 E. Bayshore Road.

Page 12 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

Community

Fine Contemporary French Dining

Los Altos Live! talent showcase returns for second year Town Crier Report

One coupon per table, limit of up to four people per table. Not valid for prix ﬁxe dinner, open table, food to go or combine with any other promotions. Not valid on major celebration events, including holidays. Expires 3/31/10

he second annual Los Altos Live! event, featuring a variety of local talent, is scheduled 7:30 p.m. April 10 in Los Altos High School’s Eagle Theater. Proceeds from the show, co-sponsored by the Los Altos Cultural Association and the Town Crier, benefit Los Altos High School programs. Resurrecting the classic variety-show format, Los Altos Live! showcases performances from 21 acts, ranging from dancing to singing and instrumental prowess. Again highlighting this year’s event is violin prodigy Stephen Waarts of Los Altos, who at age 13 is already soloing with symphony orchestras and has played Carnegie Hall. Los Altos Live! auditions are scheduled 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and 3-6 p.m. Sunday in the band room at Los Altos High School, 201 Almond Ave. Auditions are open to performers of all ages living in Los Altos or Los Altos Hills. “We welcome all kinds of talent, from singing, dancing, standup comedy,” said Abby Althoff, producer/director of the show. “We would like individuals to keep their audition to three minutes and plan on auditioning with the performance they plan to do.” Performers will be asked to fill out a form at the audition. Althoff said judges will notify those qualifying for the show after all Los Altos Live! auditions are complete. Althoff said a mandatory run-through of the show is scheduled April 9, the night before the event.

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Stephen Waarts performs at the inaugural Los Altos Live! event last year. Tickets, $20 for adults and $10 for children, will be available at select local retailers, yet to be determined, and the Town Crier. For more information, call Althoff at 949-5311. STEPHEN WAARTS UPDATE: Waarts will appear on an upcoming episode of “From the Top,” the hit NPR radio program featuring America’s best young classical musicians and hosted by pianist Christopher O’Riley. “From the Top” is heard on nearly 250 stations nationwide. Broadcast from Stanford University, the show airs nationally this week and on KDFC 102.1 FM 7 p.m. Sunday, and online at fromthetop.org. Waarts, an eighth-grader at the School for Independent Learners, is a violin student at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music Preparatory Division.

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March 3, 2010 / Los Altos Town Crier / Page 13

Community How to find a publisher for your book – in five not-so-easy steps By Jean Hollands

s an author, I have published books in a number of ways, including through an agent, small and large publishers, sale at auction and self-publishing and printing. Once you finish writing your

book, you may ask, now what? First, celebrate. No matter what becomes of the manuscript, you have completed a task, putting thoughts to paper or, perhaps, to computer. The path to publication is much more difficult in the 21st century than when

Now What? I published my first book with Bantam in 1984. These days, it seems you have to be a celebrity or a notorious newsmaker featured in the National Enquirer. An everyday person who is not a CEO or has not been scammed, attacked or married to a golfer or a senator is not usually a candidate for a big publishing house. There are exceptions, of course. Following is my advice to those shopping a book around. • Embrace your work. Get your manuscript bound and printed with a lovely cover and a picture on back, made with Picasa software and touched up

as much as you like. Give it away to everyone you care about. • E-mail a small publishing house. Author House will produce front and back covers and bookmarks, and print 100 copies for under $1,000. You will no longer own the book – Author House will. • Solicit an agent. A list is available on the Internet. Read the acknowledgments in books and seek out an agent who represented a book or author you like. Most professional agents will not take first submissions, so try a new, small or hungry agent. Talk to published authors for advice on and referrals to agents. • Write directly to a publisher. This is a long shot, but be creative and it may pay off. Ask a published author to introduce

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your book to his or her publisher. • Publish your book directly on an electronic-books site. Each site has its own procedures, and most pay royalties. Their readership is small but growing. In the past year, I helped five authors publish their books. Two were co-authors, so I will take credit for seven happy authors. I did not get any of them published, but I did provide them with tools and inspiration. My husband, Thomas Rohrer, has written 11 novels and published them on eBooks or other sources. His books are available on Amazon.com. For me, writing is therapy. I recommend working to short deadlines, passing your manuscript around and taking a writing class. Start by writing a short paragraph, then expand it to a full page. If the process is daunting, or if you suffer from writer’s block, start gardening or volunteer at the library. Writing a book is not for the faint of heart – or pen.

Jean Hollands is an author and former CEO of the Growth & Leadership Center, a corporate psychology firm. She is a longtime contributor to the Town Crier.

Grief support group offered in Los Altos

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Featuring

Rancho Shopping Center 656A Fremont Avenue, Los Altos • 650-903-9990 (located next to Starbucks) • Winter Hours: Open Daily 11am - 6:30pm Page 14 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

athways Home Health, Hospice & Private Duty has started a Partner Loss grief support group led by a bereavement counselor. The weekly sessions are scheduled Tuesday afternoons in Los Altos. The 90-minute meetings are scheduled for a six-week period. Partners provides a safe and supportive setting to explore and manage the complex and often overwhelming feelings that accompany grief. The program is open to the public by reservation only. For more information on times and location, call Christine Merriman at (408) 7734329, e-mail bereavement@ pathwayshealth.org or visit www.pathwayshealth.org.

Community Hot Topics series spotlights downtown Los Altos revival Town Crier Report

he League of Women Voters is scheduled to offer an update on downtown Los Altos revitalization proposals, including the city’s visioning process, 7-9 p.m. Monday in the Program Room of the Los Altos main library, 13 S. San Antonio Road. The public is invited to contribute ideas at the forum, part of the league’s Hot Topics discussion series. Forrest Linebarger, CEO of Vox Design Group Inc. and chairman of the GreenTown Los Altos land-use work group, will present GreenTown’s ideas for restoring vibrancy to downtown. An occasional contributor to the Town Crier and the Mountain View Voice, Linebarger has 20 years of experience designing green homes and commercial buildings. Anne Stedler, economic development coordinator for the city of Los Altos, will provide an overview of the projects the city council has approved to stimulate downtown development. Robin Abrams, chairwoman of the Vision 2025 group, will speak on key data and the economics of downtown redevelopment. A question-and-answer session

will follow the presentations. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Seating is limited to 100. The forum is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Los Altos-Mountain View, the Los Altos Library and GreenTown Los Altos. The Hot Topics forums spotlight pressing national, state and local issues. Future Hot Topics programs will focus on health-care reform, local housing issues, California constitutional reform movements and state public schools. For more information, call 941-4846 or e-mail info@lwvlamv.org.

Quota club schedules annual fashion show

TOWN CRIER FILE PHOTO

Local firefighters help members of the Quota International Club of Mountain View/Los Altos stage a successful 2008 fashion show. The club has scheduled this year’s fashion show and fundraiser noon March 20 at Michaels at Shoreline, 2960 N. Shoreline Blvd., Mountain View. The Quota International Club, founded in 1948, provides scholarships to graduating high school seniors pursuing an education in areas related to hearing-impaired deafness. Proceeds will support disadvantaged women and children and hearing-impaired infants and children. For reservations and more information, e-mail Marilyn Henderson at mfhenderson@comcast.net.

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March 3, 2010 / Los Altos Town Crier / Page 15

Community Community Briefs

You are cordially invited to a

Great Decisions series spotlights global policy

Packard Foundation Community Conversation

Silicon Valley Prayer Breakfast set March 31

We look forward to sharing plans for our new building at 343 Second Street.

Tuesday, March 9, 2010 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM The David and Lucile Packard Foundation 300 Second Street, Los Altos Please RSVP by Friday, March 5, 2010 rsvp@packard.org (650) 917-7100

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The 16th annual Silicon Valley Prayer Breakfast (formerly the Los Altos Prayer Breakfast) is scheduled 7-8:30 a.m. March 31 at the Crowne Plaza Cabaña, 4290 El Camino Real, Palo Alto. The event will feature talks from Joe Ehrmann, former professional football Ehrmann player, and endurance runner Tim Borland. Eh r ma n n, known nationally for his inspirational coaching, cofounded two Borland organizations, Building Men and Women for Others and The Door, which deals with poverty and racism. Borland is president of Race for Good, which connects people to causes through a network of fitness-driven programs. In 2007, Borland ran 63 marathons in 63 consecutive days to publicize prevention of a fatal children’s disease. The event is $35 per person, $350 for a table of 10. For more information, call 275-2183 or visit www.svpb.net.

Literacy group schedules volunteer orientation Vision Literacy, an accredited adult literacy organization, has scheduled a volunteer orientation to highlight local tutoring opportunities 10:30-11:30 a.m. March 27 at the Los Altos main library, 13 S. San Antonio Road. To register or for more information, call (408) 262-1349 or email info@visionliteracy.org.

The Los Altos Library and the League of Women Voters of the Los Altos-Mountain View Area have scheduled the annual Great Decisions discussion series 1 p.m. Mondays through March 29 in the library’s Program Room, 13 S. San Antonio Road. The series, co-sponsored by the Foreign Policy Association, will feature speakers and/or videos followed by questions and discussion among participants. Organizers chose topics because of their anticipated importance to U.S. foreign policy in coming months. Topics include crime, U.S.China security relations, the global economic crisis, Russia and its neighbors and the Persian Gulf. For program updates, posted throughout the series, visit www. santaclaracountylib.org. For more information, visit www.greatdecisions.org.

Seminar addresses child sexual abuse A “Knowledge Is Power” seminar addressing child sexual abuse and how to recognize child sexual predators is scheduled 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the American Legion, 347 First St., Los Altos. The event, sponsored by Vanguards for Vigilance, is designed for parents, educators, child-care workers and others interested in preventing child sexual abuse. Sue Enlow, founder of Not With My Child, is scheduled to present an educational predator awareness program, and Becky Cooper, executive administrator of the Friends for Youth Mentoring Institute, will discuss the dynamics of abuse and screening tools. Steve McEwan of the San Jose Police Department and Detective Susan Anderson of the Los Altos Police Department will share their knowledge of predators. To register and for more information, visit www.vanguardsforvigilance.com or e-mail vanguardsforvigilance@yahoo.com.

Community Local photographer-philanthropist seeks model family Town Crier Report

os Altos photographer Heather Lussier is participating in the 2010 International Charity Model Search to select North America’s Cutest Family and raise funds for the non-profit Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep Foundation. The foundation helps families cope with the loss of an infant or young child. Last year’s competition featured 2,000 images and raised more than $164,000 for the organization. The goal was $30,000. Lussier, who has operated Heather Lussier Photography at 127 Main St. for the past three years, said the contest reflects the compassion of people in her industry. “The more I give, the more it comes back around to me, so it’s really a win-win,” she said. Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep assists parents and families who experience the loss of an infant or young child. The foundation connects parents with volunteer

photographers who provide them with reproducible CDs of images of their children at no cost. For the contest, photographers submit family portraits for online voting – each vote costs $1, and all proceeds benefit Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep. After online voting determines the finalists, photography and modeling industry experts select winners from the finalist gallery. Finalists will each receive a prize. The international winner, chosen from the 52 city finalists, will receive the grand prize – a new car. The winning family will also be awarded a session with the renowned portrait artist Sandy Puc’, and international recognition. Lussier has practiced professional photography in the Bay Area for more than 15 years. She said she supports Puc’s philosophy and believes charitable work is the backbone of the community. Contest creator and sponsor Puc’ began the contest to highlight excellence in the portrait

photography industry and raise funds for Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (www.nowilaymedowntosleep.org), which she co-founded in 2005. The contest is open to residents of the United States and Canada. For more information or to enter the contest, call Lussier at 9481182 or visit http://sandypucmodels.com.

The Docter family assembles for a family portrait. Photographer Heather Lussier is participating in the search to find North America’s Cutest Family. COURTESY OF HEATHER LUSSIER

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Community Senate candidate Chuck DeVore outlines his platform before local Republicans By Dick Blanding Special to the Town Crier

alifornia Assemblyman and U.S. Senate candidate Chuck DeVore introduced himself to the approximately 150 members and guests of the South Peninsula Area Republican Coalition (SPARC) gathered at Fremont Hills Country Club in Los Altos Hills Feb. 16. “Hello, I’m Chuck DeVore – and I’m going to beat Barbara Boxer for the U.S. Senate,” said the Republican, who represents

approximately half a million people in the Irvine district. The first segment of DeVore’s address focused on the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. DeVore explained the relevance of the documents to current politics and said they form the fundamental principles of his political philosophy. He knows them well, he said, and even carries a small copy of the Constitution in his coat pocket. DeVore said he resisted the tendency of many legislators to

approve massive spending bills because they contain perks for their individual districts. DaVore cited his record during his three terms in Sacramento as proof of his fiscal responsibility. He said he opposes bailouts and earmarks, claiming that the first federal stimulus bill has saddled every man, woman and child with a debt of $280 per month of principal and interest for the rest of their lives. DeVore also rejected the idea of further tax increases and said he would strongly advocate for reduc-

ing the cost, size and influence of the government. He cited several instances where his two GOP primary opponents – Tom CampDeVore bell and Carly Fiorina – had supported government spending and tax increases that he opposed. DeVore said one example of his fiscal responsibility is his

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celebratetwenty years

bill to permit offshore drilling in California, which could bring $16 billion in new revenue to help balance the state budget. He emphasized that technology today is vastly improved over two decades ago, in that slant drilling now allows access to relatively distant oil reserves without the need for floating oil platforms. DeVore said natural seepage in the Santa Barbara area over a normal 18-month period leaked a quantity of oil equal to that of the big oil spill along the coast. Tapping those undersea reserves could actually lessen internal pressure, thus reducing natural seepage, he said. DeVore serves as vice chairman of the Assembly’s Revenue and Taxation Committee and sits on the Veterans Affairs and Joint Legislative Audit committees. Seven organizations have honored him as Legislator of the Year. Before entering politics, he worked for 13 years in the aerospace industry, leaving to serve in the Reagan administration as special assistant for foreign affairs. DeVore earned a degree in Strategic Studies from Claremont College and studied at American University in Cairo, Egypt, where he learned to speak Farsi. He has 24 years of service as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Retired Reserve. His writings include a novel about China, “China Attacks” (Infinity Publishing, 2000), which he co-authored with Steven W. Mosher. Dick Blanding is a Los Altos resident and member of SPARC.

Schools

LASD board looks to resolve budget problems By Traci Newell

“Dealing with (the budget issue) is a two-step process. We will be dealing with 2010-2011, but we need to be aware that the problem will continue and maybe get a little worse.”

Town Crier Staff Writer

ith the March 15 deadline looming for notifying teachers of imminent layoffs, the Los Altos School District Board of Trustees plans to spend the next two weeks devising a strategy to address the $900,000 shortfall in the 20102011 budget. “Dealing with (the budget issue) is a two-step process,” said Superintendent Tim Justus. “We will be dealing with 2010-2011, but we need to be aware that the problem will continue and maybe get a little worse.” The district currently projects a $2.5 million budget shortfall per year following the 2010-2011 budget for at least four more years. Randy Kenyon, assistant superintendent for business services, said the district’s major revenue sources are either in decline or experiencing zero growth. The district adjusts to changes in expenses every year, including increases in salaries and benefits due to negotiated terms and inflation on goods and services, he said.

Justus

– Tim Justus, superintendent

District officials are collaborating with various groups to brainstorm budget solutions. The groups include the Citizens Advisory Committee for Finance, the Budget Review Committee, the Administrative Council, the Los Altos Educational Foundation (LAEF), Parent-Teacher Association leadership, employee bargaining units and districtwide staff. Kenyon said proposals to curb expenses include reducing the employee work year through furlough days, increasing class sizes where possible – resulting in teacher layoffs – sweeping categorical funds into the general fund, eliminating library aides, offering early retirement incentives, freezing spend-

ing and salary increases and capping health benefits. Ideas for shoring up revenue include soliciting parents for donations to offset state funding cuts, increasing the parcel tax, increasing LAEF funding, asking the PTAs pick up district expenses and seeking grants for solar power to reduce utility costs. The board of trustees examined several scenarios of increased class sizes, which resulted in savings of approximately $160,000 to $540,000, depending on the variables in the scenario. The scenarios included increasing K-3 class sizes from 21 to 25, increasing kindergarten class sizes from 21 to 22, eliminating temporary/ See BUDGET, Page 20

Foothill College manages center for free and open textbooks Town Crier Report

aculty at California community colleges now have a centralized source of information on how to use free and open textbooks to lower educational costs for students. The newly established Open Educational Resources (OER) Center for California will spare faculty from spending hours on the Internet to find high-quality instructional materials on their own. The California Community Colleges Board of Governors established the center as a statewide pilot program to provide faculty and staff from community college districts around the state with the information, methods and instructional materials to establish OER centers on their campuses. The pilot program, mandated by AB 2261, authored by Assemblyman Ira Ruskin, a Democrat representing Los Altos and Los Alts Hills,

was signed into law in fall 2008. “I was proud to have carried this bill with the Foothill-De Anza Community College District as the sponsor,” Ruskin said. “This legislation helps provide educators and students with free access to course materials available in the public domain. It makes education more affordable and graduation more attainable.” The OER Center is committed to aiding educators in the state’s 112 community colleges in finding, using and developing the best and most affordable open learning materials to meet the needs of their students, said Judy Baker, Ph.D., director of the center and dean of distance and mediated learning at Foothill College. The center will provide many services via the Internet. Baker has worked for the past decade at promoting high-quality open educational resources for use in community colleges, and has

emerged as a national leader in the field. Foothill College is managing the center under an agreement with the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. The contract started in January and runs through 2012. The center will provide a structure by which community college faculty and staff in California can locate, scrutinize and customize open educational resources for creating high-quality, free course materials and textbooks for California community college students. The digital learning materials are openly licensed or available in the public domain so that they can be used, shared or customized for classroom and laboratory use. “There are many creative and dedicated faculty who are writing high-quality textbooks and making them available for anyone to use free of cost,” said Foothill See TEXTBOOKS, Page 20 March 3, 2010 / Los Altos Town Crier / Page 19

Schools TEXTBOOKS From Page 19

College President Judy Miner, Ed.D. “It is particularly exciting to consider the potential for improving instruction in basic skills given the current and future needs in that area.” The Foothill-De Anza Community College District has been a state and national leader in textbook affordability efforts since 2004, when it established a district policy on sustainable learning resources that supports “the creation, use, accessibility and ongoing maintenance of public domain-based learning materials … to augment and/or replace commercially available educational materials, including textbooks where appropriate.” The OER Center for California will partner with the Community College Consortium for Open

Educational Resources and the Community College Open Textbook Collaborative to maximize the use of available open teaching and learning resources. Among the available resources are peer reviews of open textbooks and links to more than 400 open textbooks that may be suitable for community college use. The center’s goals dovetail with those of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s digital textbook initiative to evaluate open textbooks for use in California’s K-12 public schools, and support similar efforts at the community college level. With 112 colleges and enrollments of 2.9 million students, California’s community college system is the largest higher education system in the United States. Approximately 24 percent of all community college students nationwide are enrolled at a California community college.

Oak students bake for a good cause Madison Ivy and Josie Reynolds, neighbors and Oak School third-graders, staged a bake sale fundraiser at Miramonte Avenue and Loma Prieta Court last month to raise money in support of relief efforts in Haiti. The girls’ mothers baked treats including macaroons, white-chocolatedipped pretzel rods covered in sprinkles, chocolate chip cookies, lemon-pound-cake muffins and peanut butter and cinnamon cookies. Each treat pack sold for $1. The girls, with help from their siblings, sold out of the approximately 70 items and, thanks to additional donations, raised $100. Pictured, from left, are Oak students Madison Ivy, Sisi Ivy, Josie Reynolds and Charlie Max Reynolds. COURTESY OF LAURA IVY

BUDGET From Page 19

probationary teachers throughout K-6 and increasing junior high class sizes from 25 to 27. Kenyon introduced a short-term solution to the board of trustees at a Feb. 22 budget study session. His proposal included a categorical sweep of program funding into the general fund ($200,000 savings), shifting of funding sources ($400,000 savings), three employee furlough days ($400,000 savings) and a slight increase in class sizes ($160,000 savings), totaling $1.16 million in savings, more than covering the $900,000 shortfall in the 2010-2011 budget.

Page 20 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

As for a long-term solution, Kenyon proposed continuing categorical sweeps and slightly increasing class sizes. He said the district may look to further increase class sizes, add more furlough days, continue to transfer funding sources and possibly dip into retiree benefits. He said a parcel-tax increase, propertytax growth and/or a future bond measure could help offset long-term budget gaps. Trustees will continue to address budget solutions at their March 1 board meeting, after the Town Crier’s press deadline. The board was expected to approve scheduling an additional board meeting Monday to continue the conversation. Contact Traci Newell at tracin@latc.com.

Sports

Sports on the Side

Lancers get defensive in win Panthers crush Celtics in Division V playoffs

Wyckoff wins award

By Pete Borello

Los Altos High graduate Cassie Wyckoff was named Collegiate Water Polo Association Defensive Player of the Week Feb. 16 for her play in goal for Indiana University. The sophomore made 28 saves, three steals and one assist over four games (all wins) at the Bison Invitational, played Feb. 13 and 14 at Bucknell University.

Town Crier Staff Writer

Find the right bike Robert Beronia’s free presentation, “Finding the Right Bike for Your Class,” is scheduled 7-8:30 p.m. March 11 at REI, 2450 Charleston Road, Mountain View. The REI bike specialist will review the performance features of the variety of designs on the market – including road, touring, commuter, hybrid/comfort, cruiser and mountain bikes – and discuss helmets and other safety accessories. For more information, call 969-1938 or visit www.rei.com/stores/104.

Golden Eagle returns The 26th annual Golden Eagle Summer Sports Camp is scheduled June 14 through July 30 at Los Altos and Homestead high schools. The camps run 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays for children entering grades K-8. An array of sports, arts and crafts are offered, along with swim lessons. Retired Los Altos High athletic director Monica Lodge is the administrative director; Stefaan Lodge (Los Altos site) and Garrett Middleton (Homestead) are the camp directors. Cost is $225 per week, with a $20 discount for those who sign up by April 15. For more information, visit www.goldeneaglecamp.org.

Swim assessments The Los Altos-Mountain View Aquatic Club has scheduled swim-team assessments 4:30 p.m. weekdays through June at Eagle Pool in Mountain View. The year-round team is open to those 5-18 who are comfortable in deep water and able to swim freestyle. The assessment is free. For more information, call 599-2213 or visit www.lamvac.org.

he St. Francis High boys basketball team never trailed in Saturday’s Central Coast Section Division II quarterfinal game, building an insurmountable lead by halftime and setting a school record for fewest points allowed. Yet after the 44-16 rout of Leland at Foothill College, coach Mike Motil was far from satisfied with the performance of his topseeded Lancers (26-2). “Defensively, we came out and played with intensity,” he said. “Offensively, we’ve got a lot of work to do. We’ll probably see zone again.” The eighth-seeded Chargers (11-15) played zone defense throughout Saturday’s game, and St. Francis failed to exploit it. The team made only 17 of its 57 shots (29.8 percent), including an uncharacteristic 6-of-19 effort from 3-point range (31.6 percent). “Some days are like that,” said senior Tim Wang, the lone Lancer to reach double-digit points (11). “You’ve got to keep shooting when you get looks and just have to rebound.” The last time the Lancers scored in the 40s, they lost. That was Dec. 31. “We’ve got to make shots. In our losses, we didn’t shoot well,” Motil said. “We’ve got to make them to win.” Wang did his part Saturday, making all four shots he took. The guard drained a trio of treys and a mid-range jumper. He opened the

third quarter with back-to-back 3s, the beginning of a 10-1 run by St. Francis that extended its lead to 32-7. “Timmy came out in the second half and sparked us,” Motil said. “He’s been great for us all year.” Wang, however, was more interested in talking about the Lancers’ dominating defense. “We tried to win it with a defensive-minded game and create turnovers and get some easy baskets,” he said. “Our coach always says, ‘Make offense with defense.’” The Lancers did just that, scoring several buckets off Charger turnovers. Leland, playing without injured star point guard Trevor Marino, struggled handling the ball against St. Francis’ harassing defense. In the first quarter the Chargers committed five turnovers, missed all seven of their shots and trailed 11-0 at the end of it. St. Francis didn’t surrender a point until the 7:13 mark of the second (a Jake Pederson free throw) and held Leland without a field goal until Justin Dueck’s putback with 5:13 left in the half. The Lancers scored the next seven points – capped by Spencer Britschgi’s 3 from the wing – for a 20-3 advantage. Britschgi finished with seven points. Fellow senior guard Tyler Johnson, headed to Fresno State on a basketball scholarship, had a quiet night with just three points (first-quarter trey). Senior post player Pat Crowley added six points and a team-best seven re-

ELLIOTT BURR/TOWN CRIER

St. Francis High’s Spencer Britschgi lays up the ball Saturday. bounds. Ten Lancers scored in the game. St. Francis was scheduled to return to Foothill Tuesday (after the Town Crier went to press) to face No. 4 Los Gatos (21-4) in the semifinals. The winner plays No. 2 Mitty (18-9) or No. 3 Palo Alto (19-6) for the title 8:30 p.m. Friday at Santa Clara University.

Pinewood prevails No. 2 Pinewood School walloped No. 7 St. Lawrence Acade-

my 68-30 Saturday in the Division V quarterfinals at Pinewood. The Panthers (18-6) held the Celtics to 10-of-59 shooting. Max Lippe scored 16 points for Pinewood and Solomone Wolfgramm added 10 points and grabbed 17 rebounds. The Panthers are scheduled to host No. 3 Marina (16-10) 7:30 p.m. today, with the winner advancing to Saturday’s final. Contact Pete Borello at peteb@latc.com.

Mtn. View, St. Francis & Pinewood girls move on in basketball playoffs By Pete Borello Town Crier Staff Writer

he Mountain View High girls basketball team has played better, but Saturday’s effort was still good enough to win its Central Coast Section Division II quarterfinal game against Westmont. The third-seeded Spartans (17-8) rallied in the second half to force overtime and beat the No. 6 Warriors 41-36 at Oak Grove. “It wasn’t our best game of the season – we were a little tight from the start,” coach Judy Auclair said. “But we again did what needed to be done to get the win.” Mountain View trailed by three at halftime and evened the game with a 16-13 run in the second half. The Spartans carried the momen-

tum into overtime, outscoring Westmont 6-1. Kristi Taguma led Mountain View with 15 points and Sharissa Estremera added 12. “Taguma kept us in the game with her drives to the basket and controlling the game for us,” Auclair said. “She outrebounded some very tall girls.” The Spartans were scheduled to play No. 3 Presentation (17-10) Tuesday in the semifinals, with the winner advancing to Friday’s final.

Lancers go deep to beat Lynbrook In another Division II quarterfinal game at Oak Grove, No. 4 St. Francis High overwhelmed No. 5 Lynbrook with its depth. The Lancers prevailed 65-53. “Saturday was a total team effort,” coach Ashley Hill said. “We played 18 players, 11 of

those 18 scored. ... Our depth is definitely one of our biggest assets.” Carrie Johnson paced St. Francis (10-15) with 11 points and Ashley Lucian had 10. The Lancers were set to meet No. 1 Mitty (22-5) Tuesday for the right to play in Friday night’s title game at Santa Clara University.

Panthers paste York Top seed Pinewood School destroyed No. 9 York 81-8 Saturday in the Division V quarterfinals at St. Francis Central Coast Catholic in Watsonville. The Panthers (21-6) are scheduled to visit No. 4 St. Francis Central Coast Catholic (178) 7:30 p.m. today. The winner plays in Saturday’s 10 a.m. final at Santa Clara. Contact Pete Borello at peteb@latc.com. March 3, 2010 Los Altos Town Crier / Page 21

Sports Paly ends Eagles’ season

MV, LA baseball teams win openers

By Pete Borello

Town Crier Staff Report

Town Crier Staff Writer

he first two minutes of the Central Coast Section Division II quarterfinal game looked promising for the Los Altos High boys basketball team. The Eagles jumped to a 4-0 lead on a putback by Tim Vanneman and a layin from Sammy Meckler. But that’s as good as it would get for the sixthseeded Eagles Saturday at Foothill College. No. 3 Palo Alto scored 21 of the next 23 points on the way to a 58-46 win that wasn’t that close. “We didn’t score and got unfocused defensively,” Los Altos coach James Reilly said. “We got more frustrated the more we missed shots.” When the Eagles (17-9) weren’t missing from the perimeter – starting 0-for-10 on 3s – they often rushed shots against a bigger, more athletic Palo Alto team adept at protecting the basket. The Vikings (196) blocked five shots, three in the first half. “We needed to get to the rim more,” said Los Altos post player Simon Rosenbaum, who scored a team-high 14 points. “When we did and it didn’t go well, we started to shy away from going to the rim.” The Eagles’ initial points of the second quarter came on Spencer Wells’ pull-up jumper, snapping the team’s five-and-a-half-minute scoreless streak. But Palo Alto responded with a 10-0 run that began with back-to-back corner 3s by Max Schmarzo. A free throw by Los Altos’ Nathan Worley made the score 31-9 with 2:10 left in the quarter. The Vikings added six points before intermission – all by Davante Adams, who delivered a get-out-of-my-way dunk that excited the Paly-partial crowd. Nick Schaefer scored the Eagles’ final four points of the half. After splitting a pair of foul shots at the 30-second mark, the senior center completed a 3-point play (inside basket and free throw) with 1.4 seconds left to cut the deficit to 37-13. Los Altos put up more resistance in the second half. Going to a four-guard lineup and full-court press, the Eagles opened the third quarter with a 10-3 spurt featuring four points by guard Wells (jumper

R. Alan Hwang/Special to the Town Crier

Eagle Simon Rosenbaum drives to the basket. and two free throws) and a baseline trey from forward Sean Small. Los Altos outscored the Vikings 11-6 in the period, holding them to 2-of-11 shooting. “At half, we said, ‘We have nothing to lose’ and came out with clearer minds and more confident,” Reilly said of the third-quarter turnaround. “I was proud of the way we competed.” The fourth quarter belonged to the Eagles as well. Los Altos outscored Palo Alto 23-15, largely due to the play of Rosenbaum. The sophomore scored all of his points in the fourth, including a corner trey and all seven of his free throws. “(Assistant coach Bob McFarlane) got in my face, and told me to be more aggressive, and I did,” Rosenbaum said. “Fortunately, the ball went in the basket.” Wells scored four of his 12 points in the fourth. Wells’ twin brother Sean had 10 points in leading Los Altos to its first-round win Feb. 24. Down eight in the fourth quarter, the Eagles rallied to beat No. 11 Leigh 57-50 for their first CCS win since 1996. “It was a sensational season,” Reilly said. Contact Pete Borello at peteb@latc.com.

he Mountain View High baseball team opened its season with back-to-back wins last week. The Spartans started with a 4-1 home win over Cupertino Feb. 22. Winning pitcher Kevin Goulette tossed a two-hitter, striking out 12 batters. The only run he allowed was unearned, coming on an error in the first inning. Mountain View scored twice in the third, helped by an error, to take the lead and added two more runs in the fifth. Brandon Farley doubled and drove in two runs for the Spartans. Riley Moran had two hits and scored twice. Thursday the Spartans routed Mills 7-0 behind a completegame shutout by Tyler Robbins. The host Spartans entered the fourth with a 6-0 lead, helped by three Mills errors. Farley drove in two of the runs with a third-inning double. Taylor Moran totaled two hits for Mountain View and Riley Moran scored twice. Los Altos began its campaign with a 7-1 win over Fremont to open the Santa Clara/Wilcox Tournament Feb. 24 at Washington Park. Keegan Kliman earned the win, striking out six batters and walking none over five innings. Offensive standouts included Mat Snider (2-for-3, three runs, two stolen bases), Mitch Kehlet (2-for3, two RBIs) and Chris Maki (2for-3, two RBIs). The Eagles went on to finish

Prep Sports Summary third in the tourney, blanking Independence 5-0 Saturday. A.J. Strom earned the win and Austin O’Such belted a three-run homer.

Boys tennis St. Francis started its season with a 5-2 win over Cupertino Feb. 22 at Cuesta Park. The Lancers’ top doubles team of Sean Truesdell and Rishi Bommannan won 6-0, 6-3.

Lacrosse St. Francis won its first-ever la-

crosse game Saturday, thumping San Lorenzo Valley 11-4 in the rain. “It was a great way to start a new sport at St. Francis,” coach Bill Kurz said, “as every kid loves to squash around in the rain and mud whether playing a game or just wiggling his toes.” Stephen Evans led the Lancers with three goals and two assists.

Boys volleyball Mountain View (1-0) swept Saratoga Friday behind 13 kills from Brad Howard.

Golf Los Altos shot 185 to beat Homestead (207) and Mountain View (214) Feb. 24 at Shoreline Golf Links. Eagle Sean Kawaguchi earned medalist honors, shooting a 2-under-par 34 for nine holes. Teammate Zach Nicolet shot 36.

Seven Days of Sports: the local high school and community college schedule HIGH SCHOOL Boys basketball

Today Central Coast Section Division V semifinals at Pinewood, TBA Friday CCS Division II final at Santa Clara University, 8:30 p.m. Saturday CCS Division V final at Santa Clara University, noon Monday/Tuesday First round of Northern California regionals at homes of higher seeds, 7 p.m.

Girls basketball

Today CCS Division V semifinals at St. Francis Central Coast Catholic (Watsonville), TBA Friday CCS Division II final at Santa Clara University, 6:30 p.m. Saturday CCS Division V final at Santa Clara University, 10 a.m. Monday/Tuesday First round of NorCal regionals at homes of higher seeds, 7 p.m.

Boys soccer Today/Thursday CCS Division II semifinals at Gilroy High, TBA Saturday CCS Division II final at Gilroy High, TBA

Girls soccer Today/ Thursday CCS Division I semifinals at Valley Christian (San Jose), TBA Saturday CCS Division I final at Valley Christian, TBA

Wrestling

Friday & Saturday State championships at Rabobank Arena (Bakersfield), 9 a.m.

Boys tennis

Today Pinewood at Gunn, 2 p.m. Thursday Fremont at Los Altos, 3:30 p.m. Valley Christian vs. St. Francis at Cuesta Park, 2:45 p.m. Menlo at Pinewood, 3:30 p.m. Tuesday St. Ignatius vs. St. Francis at Cuesta

Page 22 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

Park, 2:45 p.m. Mountain View at Los Altos, 3:30 p.m.

Track & field

Thursday Mountain View at St. Francis, 3:30 p.m. Saturday St. Francis at Mt. Pleasant Relays, 8 a.m.

Lacrosse

Saturday St. Francis at Los Altos, 11 a.m. Tuesday San Lorenzo Valley at St. Francis, 7 p.m.

Baseball

Thursday Milpitas at Los Altos, 3:30 p.m. St. Francis at Los Gatos, 3:30 p.m. Friday St. Mary’s at St. Francis, 6 p.m. Saturday Sobrato at Los Altos, 2 p.m. Mountain View at Saratoga, noon Monday Mountain View at Menlo-Atherton, 3:15 p.m.

Tuesday Harbor at Los Altos, 3:45 p.m.

Softball Today Mountain View at St. Francis, 3:30 p.m. Friday Homestead at St. Francis, 3:30 p.m. Monday Mountain View at Los Altos, 4 p.m. Tuesday Los Altos at Palo Alto, 3:30 p.m. Los Gatos at St. Francis, 3:30 p.m.

Boys volleyball

Riordan vs. St. Francis at Los Altos Golf & Country Club, 2:30 p.m. Harker vs. Pinewood at Los Altos Golf & Country Club, 3:30 p.m.

Swimming & diving

Thursday Pinewood at Mercy-Burlingame, 4 p.m. Friday Los Altos at Palo Alto Invitational, 3:30 p.m. Saturday Los Altos at Palo Alto Invitational, 9 a.m.

Saturday St. Francis at Quicksilver Cup, TBA Tuesday Mitty at St. Francis, 6:30 p.m.

COLLEGE

Golf

Women’s tennis

Today Fremont vs. Los Altos at Shoreline Golf Links, 2:30 p.m. Thursday St. Francis vs. Mitty at Boulder Ridge Golf Course, 2:30 p.m. Monday Los Altos vs. Gunn at Palo Alto Muni, 3 p.m.

Softball

Tuesday Foothill at Hartnell, 3 p.m. Thursday Monterey at Foothill, 2 p.m. Tuesday Foothill at Chabot, 2 p.m.

Swimming & diving

Friday Foothill at Chabot, 2 p.m. TBA - to be announced.

O V E R

Sports Mixed results for MV soccer teams; SF moves on By Pete Borello

Town Crier Staff Writer

fter the offense put up two goals in the first half of the Central Coast Section Division I girls soccer quarterfinal match, the Mountain View High defense did the rest. The stingy Spartans notched their 13th shutout of the season in a 2-0 win over Gilroy Saturday at Gunn High. “The first 10 minutes of the second half they came hard at us and needed to score, and we held them,” center defender Mimi Arrillaga said. “Then they started to lose hope and wore down.” And Mountain View moved on. The win propelled the fifthseeded Spartans (15-3-2) into Tuesday’s semifinal against No. 1 Woodside (18-0-3). The winner is slated to face No. 2 St. Francis (17-4-3) or No. 3 Monta Vista (142-4) in Saturday’s final at Valley Christian (time to be determined). Mountain View lost to Woodside on penalty kicks in last year’s playoffs and fell to the Wildcats 1-0 early this season. “We weren’t on our game (Dec. 19) and want to prove we are the better team this time,” said Arrillaga, a senior. “We need to focus and play our game.” That’s exactly what the Spartans did Saturday – at least after they got the jitters out. “The first five or seven minutes were a little rocky for our team,

Eric Bastoul/Special to the Town Crier

Mountain View’s Michael Fanton prepares to boot the ball. then we did a good job of dominating them,” Arrillaga said. Victoria Hayward scored the first goal midway through the first half on a low shot into the corner. Kirsten Belinsky assisted. A few minutes later Emily Andrew scored on a follow-up shot. Gilroy totaled only six shots on goal, according to Arrillaga.

SF girls blank Leland The St. Francis girls advanced to the semis with a 2-0 win over No. 7 Leland at Gunn. Stephanie Bell scored both goals in the first half, assisted by Rachel Wimmer.

MV boys fall to Leigh Despite a 15-4 shots-on-goal advantage, the third-seeded Mountain View boys lost 1-0 to No. 6 Leigh Saturday in the Division II quarterfinals at Milpitas. Leigh scored off a free kick 20 minutes into the match. “After that we completely dominated play,” Spartans coach Jim McGuirk

said. “Their goalie made a couple of nice saves and we missed a couple of clear-cut chances.” Senior Michael Fanton agreed with his coach – and then some. “I felt we dominated the entire game,” the defender said. “We had some good chances right at the beginning, but after they scored we didn’t have any good chances because they sat back.” Leigh moved its forwards back and used five defenders to help make sure one goal was enough to win. Mountain View (13-5-3) had 10 corner kicks but failed to score. “They played tough defense,” McGuirk said. “It was definitely a frustrating way to go out.” Added Fanton, “It’s a hard way to end four years at Mountain View. It’s kind of sad now, but after we get over it, we’ll realize we did a lot, like winning our first (De Anza Division) title.”

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SF boys rout Lincoln Second seed St. Francis took out No. 7 Lincoln 5-1 in another CCS Division II quarterfinal game at Milpitas. Mikey Mitchell scored three goals for the Lancers, up 2-1 at halftime. Chris Fisher and Tucker Jorgensen scored a goal each for St. Francis (12-4-6). St. Francis is scheduled to meet Leigh 7 p.m. today at Gilroy High, with the winner returning Saturday to face No. 4 Yerba Buena or No. 8 Willow Glen. Contact Pete Borello at peteb@latc.com.

For the if in life.®

March 3, 2010 Los Altos Town Crier / Page 23

A T H E R T O N Spectacular newly built country Eng manor home on gorgeous, flat lot with heritage trees & lush landscaping. 5 bd, 5 1/2 ba main house w/1 bd 1 ba fabulous guest hse! High end quality finishes with wonderful light thru-out. Pierre Buljan Offered at $5,495,000 (650) 340-9688 MENLO PARK... Beautiful family home w/versatile floor plan in the sought after Stanford Hills neighborhood. 4 BD/2BA freshly painted, brick entry, hardwood flrs, custom colors, fireplace in living & family rooms. Stanford Lease Land. Cathy McCarty Offered at $1,195,000 (650) 614-3500

Exquisite home extensively remodeled. Large gourmet kitchen w/custom cabinetry & top of the line appliances. Abundant natural light & alder wood floors. Kitchen opens to FR w/French doors leading to gardens & patio. 3 bedrooms + office. Mary Jo McCarthy Offered at $1,649,500 (650) 614-3500

M E N L O

P A R K

Beautiful new 4RB/3.5BA home w/luxurious finishes-high ceilings, gourmet kitchen w/granite slate, hardwood flrs, wet bar, wrought iron railings, CAT5, pro lndscp w/stone patio & built-in bbq & wet bar. Close to shops, parks, fwys. Dary Marhamat Offered at $2,299,000 (650) 948-8050

Charming 3 bedroom, 2 bath rancher in Las Lomitas School District. Extra large lot in a highly desirable location. Hardwood floors, large eat in kitchen with family room, extra large living/dining, wonderful family home. Kristin Cashin Offered at $1,630,000 (650) 614-3500

LOS ALTOS...Stunning 4BD/4.5BA Cape Cod style home. One of a kind masterpiece w/architectural interest throughout offers easy elegant living with grand entry, gourmet kitchen, great room, formal dining 3 office and more. Meryle Sussman Offered at $3,450,000 (650) 614-3500

B E L M O N T

MENLO PARK... Classic Menlo Park bungalow. 2 bedrooms 1 bath, beautiful hardwood floors. Fireplace in living room. Detached garage. Tom Boeddiker Offered at $929,000 (650) 614-3500

Great Location on! This property includes 2 lots side by side that are surrounded by single family homes. At this price plans, permits & construction should be affordable if City allows. Needs a survey. Guy Mongillo Offered at $385,000 (650) 948-8050

L O S

A LT O S

Price Reduced! Come visit 849 Valparaiso Ave, beautiful 2 story 3BR/2.5BA single family home in townhome development w/ custom finishes. Only 12 Years new & move in condition. Close to downtown, restaurants & shops. A must see! Hazel Anker Offered at $1,350,000 (650) 948-8050

H I L L S

Gated new construction. 6+BR/5BA+2(.5BA) Italian estate includes a vineyard on level lot acre (+/-). Unbeatable location close to the Village w/a serene natural setting feels “away from it all”. Built w/the world finest materials. Farideh Zamani Offered at $8,380,000 (650) 948-8050

Top floor, great location, contemporary unit w/ hi ceilings, large living area w/fireplace, open kitchen w/ granite counters, 2 parking spaces, walk to dtown MP& PA, close to public transport, pool, spa, exercise room & library. Carolyn Rianda Offered at $485,000 (650) 614-3500

R E D W O O D MOUNTAIN VIEW... Gorgeous new construction! Custom Craftsmen, open flrpln. Wonderful flow w/ all top of the line amenities. Blue Ribbon School District. 2 lrg mstr suites & bonus artist studio/office. French doors lead to beautiful landscaped yard. Laura Bryant Offered at $1,425,000 (650) 343-3700

This Hacienda w/old world craftsmanship & all the modern accouterments is situated on a flat creek side lot w/exceptional MFA & MDA & a serene park setting. New architectural plans, drawings & topographical study travel w/the property. Victor Platonoff Offered at $2,798,000 (650) 948-8050 A captivating view accents this exceptional 5BR/3+BA Traditional-style with deck with lovely valley view. Inspiring residence with beautiful appointments. Spacious layout. Family room. Traditional warmth and charm! Camille Eder Offered at $1,940,000 (650) 614-3500

MOUNTAIN VIEW... Beautiful remodeled home w/ designer touches. Chef’s kitchen w/gas cook top dual ovens, granite counters & maple cabinets. Bathrooms are well appointed & feature granite and marble. Great neighborhood & excellent Los Altos schools. Victor Platonoff Offered at $939,000 (650) 948-8050

MOUNTAIN VIEW... Charming & updated 3 bedroom 2 bath home. New paint in & out, new carpets, kitchen granite counters & tile floors. Dual pane windows, A/C, modern light fixtures. Low maintenance yard with pavers. Best value! Lilly T. Chow Offered at $779,999 (650) 614-3500

Page 24 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

M E N L O

P A R K

One of 7 luxurious custom homes at Menlo Park’s newest community. Each magnificently appointed w/unique design elements, superb finishes & outstanding quality & all at a premier location, moments to Stanford Univ. & downtown shopping. Denise Laugesen Offered at $3,995,000 (650) 343-3700 Brand new shingled craftsman! Light, open floorplan + 5BR 4.5BA. 3 levels of quality construction. Top of the line finishes. Designed by Farro Essalat. City of Menlo, Award winning schools-Menlo’s newest luxury community. Denise Laugesen/Kristin Cashin Offered at $3,795,000 (650) 343-3700

PALO ALTO... Charming cottage - This 3BD/2BA is perfect for springtime croquet! Featuring glam kitchen, French doors opening to deck, with hot tub and expansive back garden. Near Stanford & California Ave business dist. Carol Bartlett Offered at $1,149,000 (650) 614-3500

C I T Y

An amazing Emerald Hills location with the finest quality materials & great floor plan. Stunning new custom home with phenomenal peninsula views. Spacious 5 bedroom 5.5 bath home with office. Detached 3-car garage. Tata Vahdatpour Offered at $2,395,000 (650) 614-3500

PORTOLA VALLEY... Prime location for this beautiful 1 acre level lot. Vast lawns, gardens, & vineyard. Close to schools. Extensive remodel. 5 bedrooms, 3 baths. LR/FR vaulted ceiling, separate dining room, 3 car garage. Paul Skrabo Offered at $1,949,000 (650) 529-2900

Two homes for the price of one! 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths, sep living room, family room and office. Garage has studio type unit above with full kitchen, dining & living room. Private grounds on cul-de-sac. Joann T Bedrossian Offered at $1,180,000 (650) 614-3500 Chance of a lifetime to buy a compound with 2 separate buildings. Front 2 bedroom + rear 2 bedroom. Side patio, large main yard, great foliage & lemon trees. Lots of room to relax. Gilbert F Romero Offered at $988,000 (650) 598-4900

SANTA CLARA... Don’t miss this Opportunity! Located on a busy corner close to the University of Santa Clara; free standing warehouse great for owner/user or zoned for possible redevelopment. Plenty of parking. Many possible uses. Guy Mongillo Offered at $975,000 (650) 948-8050

Many upgrades in this 3/2 including kitchen, baths, andlandscaping. Also features rentable 1BD/1BA guest area, built in stereo and central air conditioning. Tom Boeddiker Offered at $619,000 (650) 614-3500 Best value 3 bed/2 bath condo, many updates, quiet location in complex, excellent neighborhood school – Roy Cloud, close to Canada College. Leon Y Leong Offered at $489,000 (650) 614-3500

SUNNY VALE... A must see 3BR/2BA end unit! Kitchen w/oak cabinets & granite cntrtops. Fireplace in LR, refinished hdwd flrs in kitchen, DR & LR. New Milgard dbl pane windows & sliders, sliders to patio from LR & MB. Back patio opens to semi-private greenbelt. Rachel J. Siress Offered at $607,000 (650) 948-8050

section

Your Kids

Spiritual Life Stepping Out Obituaries Datebook Classifieds Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Playing for time

No grownups allowed in these modern-day tree forts By Eren Göknar

positions: trapeze, belt swing and glider. ong gone are the days Instead of bright primary colwhen we played on alumi- ors, manufacturers now use more num swing sets placed on neutrals like dark green to blend gravel or concrete that skinned in with the landscaping, not stand our knees when we fell off. Re- out. Slides feature rounded edges, member those metal slides that and the sets themselves are made roasted our legs in summer and of sanded cedar and redwood how tree forts were usually home- that are insect and rot-resistant. made and full of splinters? And There’s little chance of children we carved our own “No grownups getting splinters, especially beallowed” signs. cause the sets have a coat of waterToday’s children have it made based stain. More compact than by comparison. Even in backyard other sets, the Treehouse series is playgrounds, first comes safety, ideal for smaller spaces. then comes creativity, said David For more options, consider the Coleman, manager of Terra Teak Peak series, Coleman said. The and Garden, 1064 W. El Camino line is larger and meant for older Real in Mountain View. children. Here, customers can “We have the idea that we’re choose between tarp and wood offering your children an adven- roofs, and several climbing alterture, a chance natives. There’s to explore,” a rope ladder, an said the father imitation rock“We have the idea of two grown climbing wall that we’re offering sons. and chain or flat your children an Of course, steps. adventure, a chance adventure The Explorer doesn’t come series comes to explore.” cheap nowaloaded with op– David Coleman, days. Coletions like decks, Terra Teak and Garden but it’s meant man’s play structures start for younger at $1,100, and the price goes up children, ages 3-10. if you want customized addIf you have a really large yard, ons. Customers can spend up to it’s possible to buy two sets and $15,000 for a higher-end play add bridges or tunnels between structure. them. To allow for racing, add on The Terra Teak and Garden three slides so playmates can barstore sells many Backyard Adven- rel down simultaneously. tures models, manufactured by a Coleman said many customers company based in Kansas. Its line want their children outside, exerincludes three tiers, beginning cising and enjoying nature. Often, with the Treehouse series, basi- parents come in looking for sets cally a cedar tree house with slide when there’s a baby on the way. and swings suitable for children “I just had a couple come in, up to the sixth grade. Accessories and they were expecting and may include ship captain’s wheels, wanted something special for the lemonade stands, periscopes, a older child” to play with, he said. gangplank or a sun porch. And a And with a newborn, parents swing is not just a swing on these may have a harder time getting to new sets. There are three different the neighborhood park.

Special to the Town Crier

ABOVE PHOTO COURTESY OF TERRA TEAK; BELOW PHOTO COURTESY OF BARBARA BUTLER

When choosing a structure, it’s important to pay attention to your child’s personality and preferences, Coleman cautioned. “Every child is different,” he said, noting that a youngster with a long concentration span who could sit in a sandbox for hours may benefit from more features to engage his or her creativity. And then, some are just more physical and need active, challenging play. But the more complicated the set, the likelier it is that customers will want it installed and decline to do it themselves. While customers can assemble the equipment to save money, the company can install the set in much less time. For example, a trampoline that might take a homeowner eight or 10 hours to install would only take Coleman’s team a couple of hours. “Like anything else, it’s time or money,” Coleman said, See PLAY STRUCTURES, Page 26

The Olympian Treehouse model, above, by Backyard Adventures, is available at Terra Teak and Garden in Mountain View. The structure appeals to families with older children, who need up to 6 feet of clearance for a single beam swing. A Los Altos Hills family ordered the Dynamite Treefort, below, which costs approximately $35,000-$40,000.

March 3, 2010 Los Altos Town Crier / Page 25

Your Kids PLAY STRUCTURES From Page 25

noting that his installation team has connected thousands of sets, and approximately 95 percent of his customers hire the workers. The installers, whose fees start at $250, will also make sure the swings and slides are level to minimize the risk of injury. Ron Rogers, manager of Rainbow Play Systems at 1175 Willow Ave. in Sunnyvale (www.rainbowplay.com), said his company’s product is more modular and can be added on to. “It’s heavy-duty enough that adults can sit on it,” Rogers said. His company uses a high-quality North American lumber that will last, he promised. Even with the trying economic times, Rogers said it’s been a “decent year for us,” although he noted that the season doesn’t really start until March. His structures cost anywhere from $999 for a model currently on sale to $20,000 and more for customized play sets. Lowe’s Hardware (www.lowes. com) also sells play sets ranging in price from $700 to $2,600. Its

structures are made by Heartland Premium Play Systems, constructed of Southern Yellow Pine wood coated with plastic in the Captain’s Loft series. The base model in that line starts with a heavy-duty canopy, a rock wall with scaling rope, two belt-swings, a fort with ladder and a trapeze and ring combination. That one sells for $1,699 installed. Ben Mabini, sales specialist for Lowe’s, works out of the Sunnyvale store at 811 E. Arques Ave. He configures the modular systems for customers, and considers safety first. “I like to sleep good at night,” he said, so he tries to figure out how big the play area is. The swings need 6 feet without any obstacles like fences that children could hit. And because many local backyards tend to be small, the amount of space available is always a concern, Mabini said. On the higher-end of play structures reigns San Francisco’s Barbara Butler (www.barbarabutler.com). A native of upstate New York, Butler has designed colorful and elaborate play sets for stars such as Robert Redford, Will Smith and Kevin Kline. Butler writes on her Web site

Page 26 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

San Francisco play structure creator Barbara Butler designed the Castle Ramparts model, left, which cost a Los Altos Hills family between $65,000 and $80,000.

COURTESY OF BARBARA BUTLER

that she builds sets strong enough for the whole family, and that she wants to spark children’s imaginations and get them away from the television and computer. Her sets are painted in bold colors and share whimsical elements, like the moon and the stars on the “universe cupboard” and the curvy design of a chalkboard. Her work has appeared in national

newspapers and magazines, including the Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest and People. Her sister, Suzanne Butler, business manager for Barbara Butler Artist-Builder Inc., said the company has built several sets locally, ranging from the Princess Fortress ($30,000) to the Dynamite Tree Fort ($35,000$40,000) and Castle Ramparts

($65,000-$80,000) in Los Altos Hills. The templates are available online. Parents can view the accessories store online, where double water cannons go for $760 and kitchen sets cost $1,400. While our “Keep out” signs were free, Butler sells a “No grownups allowed” sign online for $120.

Your Kids

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Advice from a local parent: Plant fruit trees and vegetables with your children. Let them select their own to foster good habits.

A mom mix of wisdom, practicality and humor By Kerri Havnen Gordon

Praise

hen I e-mailed moms in the community asking for parenting tips, my inbox suddenly became a very busy place. Moms, after all, are well accustomed to dispensing advice, and sure enough, they easily provided enough material to fill two columns – this one and one centered on the teen years, publishing next week. So in the spirit of “it takes a village to raise a child,” read on for a mom mix of wisdom, practicality and humor.

• Make a point of noticing good qualities about your children and telling them. We tend to show excitement about accomplishments, which is great, but our kids need to know that we love them for who they. – Renee • Try to make your compliments around process, rather than end results. Be descriptive in your praise. “Wow, look at all those colors in your painting! Lots of blues and oranges!” says a lot more than, “That’s a great painting,” which is more of an WISDOM, Page 32

The Living Experiment

March 3, 2010 Los Altos Town Crier / Page 27

Your Kids Sylvan offers student tips for college entrance exams Town Crier Report

he pressure is on. To compete in today’s global economy, which includes international students attending North American colleges in record numbers, U.S. teenagers

must pursue higher education. According to the latest research from the U.S. Department of Education, college enrollment grew 16 percent between 1985 and 1995. Between 1995 and 2005, enrollment increased at a faster rate (23 percent), from 14.3

million to 17.5 million. The number of graduating high school seniors is expected to peak in 2011, with 67 percent trying to gain admission to an institution of higher learning. What does this mean for students with college aspirations?

Acing the college entrance exam is critical. Most students applying to competitive colleges now take the SAT or ACT more than once, and as early as sophomore year. The growing global economy has made it necessary for more students to attend college to se-

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cure high-paying jobs. New tools, such as the common application, encourage students to apply to more schools – which increases the competition and thus makes it more difficult for students to gain acceptance at the top institutions and colleges that were once seen as safety schools. More students and parents today are learning the secret that top colleges have known for years – systematically preparing for the SAT or ACT gives students more confidence, and more confidence can lead to higher scores. New college admissions rules now allow students to score their best by taking the SAT or ACT as many times as they like, but educators suggest taking the tests no more than two or three times. Sylvan Learning, the leading provider of in-center and live, online tutoring, offers the following advice to ensure that students are prepared for their college entrance exams. • Studying for the SAT or ACT takes weeks, even months, of review. Don’t try to cram overnight. • Trust yourself. Rely on your instincts. Never leave an easy question blank. • Read the questions and answers critically. • Easy questions have easy answers. • Stop and check. Every few questions, ensure that the question number on the answer sheet corresponds with the booklet. • Save time. Make sure you have enough time to answer as many questions as possible, so you can rack up as many points as possible. • Focus on what the question is really asking. If you don’t fully understand the question, finding the correct answer is going to be tough. • Rushing only hurts you. Keep track of the time remaining for each section. • Eliminate answers. If you can eliminate at least two incorrect answers, make an educated guess. • End each section by reviewing. If time permits, revisit the questions you didn’t answer. For more information, visit www.SylvanLearning.com.

To check out the online edition of the Town Crier, visit www.losaltosonline.com. Page 28 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

Your Kids Children’s picture books with staying power By Eve Hill-Agnus Special to the Town Crier

ar from settling into hibernation, a number of last fall’s picture books have remained on best-seller lists well into the new year. Some represent the latest in an already successful series, others repackage classics in fresh (and awa rd-wi nning) ways and all foreground the picture book’s special efficacy as a visual storytelling medium. In “Skippyjon Jones, Lost in Spice” (Dutton Juvenile, 2009), Judy Schachner reunites readers with her popular protagonist, a rambunctious Siamese cat who fancies himself a Chihuahua, and whose unbounded imagination sparks adventures – otherworldly, in this case. With a dash of paprika, the endearingly hyperactive hero transports himself to Mars, and we enter his playful delirium, sprinkled with Spanish and snatches of sing-song. Bright, busy illustrations match the charming com-

motion of Skippyjon’s imaginative world. “Waddle!” by Rufus Butler Seder (Workman Publishing, 2009) follows on the heels of the similarly successful “Swing!” (2008) and “Gallop!” (2007), using Seder’s “Scanimation” technique to conjure moving images of animals that “slip slide s w o o p ” through a trick of optical illusion. Seder’s jitterylimbed creatures owe much to Eadweard Muybridge’s experiments with stop-motion photography, as Seder openly acknowledges. But waddling penguin and prancing pig are updated with bold colors and accompanying rhymed text that invites young readers in: “Can you …” prance or scamper or hop, like the quicksilver animals on the page? If “Waddle!” presents a modern-day kinetoscope, Jerry Pinkney’s “The Lion and the Mouse” (Little, Brown & Co., 2009) offers all the psychological nuance of an artful si-

lent film. Aesop’s fable unfolds without a word (not even on the cover), encouraging visual reverie. Pinkney’s delicate pencil and watercolor illustrations are full of Serengeti sunlight and grass, punctuated only by natural sounds. Subtle facial expressions communicate shifts in power between the two vastly different creatures that are beholden to each other by story’s end. When the mouse gnaws the lion’s binding cords – his “scratch” somehow impossibly loud, cutting through our tension at this climax – the lion’s golden face registers skepticism, then admiration. For this wonderfully paced book that balances restraint and feeling, Pinkney

received the Caldecott Medal in January for most distinguished picture book. Antoine de Saint-Exupery’s original text appears in full in “The Little Prince PopUp” (HMH B o o k s , 2009), and the illustrations are those we recognize from the 1943 classic. But bits of illustration spring up from the text, accentuating Saint-Exupery’s strange visual worlds: the barrenness of the

desert, the magical sparseness of the Little Prince’s planets. The three-dimensional format also underscores the importance of objects that seem to teeter on the edge of solidity – the sheep and its crate, the hat/boa, the rose. More than a visual gimmick, the book’s pop-up elements allow us to consider the story in a new light. Given Oliver Jeffers’ See BOOKS, Page 33

March 3, 2010 Los Altos Town Crier / Page 29

Your Kids Five vital skills for children and tips for teaching them ARAcontent

t’s no surprise that mothers want the best for their children, but some set the bar too high when it comes to their expectations for themselves as

parents. One in three mothers admits to setting unrealistic expectations, according to a Moms Straight Talk on Parenting survey conducted by the Pepperidge Farm Goldfish brand. The poll of more than 1,000

“Let Us Help You Create a Backyard Adventure for Your Kids”

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mothers with children ages 6-12 also revealed that 70 percent of mothers surveyed feel pressure to be perfect, and 60 percent of moms said that raising children is much tougher today than when they were growing up. Three-quarters of moms surveyed worry whether they can provide the skills their children need to reach their potential. “Most moms worry if they’re doing all they can to help their children become happy, productive adults,” said positive psychology expert and mother of four Dr. Karen Reivich, a teacher and researcher in positive psychology at the University of Pennsylvania. “It’s a surprise, however, to realize that many mothers apparently know they are placing unrealistic and probably stressful expectations on themselves, and that those expectations may hinder their ability to impart important life skills to their children.” Reivich is an adviser and contributor to the Fishful Thinking program (www.FishfulThinking.com), a parenting resource that provides strategies that par-

ents can use to help raise positive, confident children. Fishful Thinking focuses on five key skills that parents can teach to their children: optimism, emotional awareness, goal setting/ hope, resilience and empowerment.

Optimism Why it matters: Developing this skill helps children learn to focus on the positive, without denying the negative, and to channel their energy toward what they can control, rather than what is out of their control. Optimistic people work toward creating positive change. Teaching activity: Host a “savoring party.” Invite children and their parents to your house and ask each to bring something for the group to savor. It could be food, a piece of music, art, clay, a kaleidoscope – almost anything that brings satisfaction and enjoyment. Place the items to be savored on the floor and provide paper and crayons. Ask each parent/child team to pick an item to savor and write down in five minutes as many words

as they can think of to describe what they are savoring. At the end, give each team the opportunity to share its list.

Emotional awareness Why it matters: A building block for a healthy emotional life, emotional awareness is the ability to identify and express one’s feelings and to empathize with what others are feeling. Teaching activity: Create a feeling collage. Choose a feeling with your child and help him or her find pictures from magazines, family photos, drawings or words that illustrate that feeling. Paste them on a piece of paper and post the collage on a wall in your home.

Goal setting/hope Why it matters: Hope leads to the drive to set and pursue goals, take prudent risks and initiate action. Children who are taught hope learn problemsolving skills and how to develop personal strengths and social resources. Teaching activity: Create See SKILLS, Page 31

Your Kids skills

From Page 30 a “My Goal Road Map.” Help your child choose a realistic, achievable goal. Print “My Goal Road Map” on a large sheet of paper and have your child write a specific sentence describing the goal beneath the title. Circle the sentence and decorate it so it is clear this is where your child wants to go. Write the word “start” in the bottom right-hand corner and draw a series of footprints between the word “start” and the goal in the upper lefthand corner. In each footprint, help your child write a short description of a step he or she can take toward reaching the goal.

Resilience Why it matters: Resilience is critical to a successful, happy life. It is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, learn from failure, find motivation in challenges and believe in your own abilities to deal with the stresses and difficulties of everyday life. Teaching activity: Focus on praising not just your child’s successes, but the process he or she followed to achieve success. For example, if your child performs well on a test, instead of saying “You’re so smart,” try “You studied really hard for that test.”

Filoli hosts family-friendly Spring Fling March 20 Town Crier Report

The Filoli Spring Fling offers many activities, including face painting, above. Spring Fling attendees can visit the gardens at Filoli, which feature blooming red tulips.

iloli has scheduled its annual Spring Fling 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. March 20 at 86 Cañada Road, Woodside. Families are invited to visit the estate, a National Trust for Historic Preservation property that includes three greenhouses that house Filoli’s collection dating from 1920. Children can decorate a pot or pot a spring plant to take home. Throughout the greenhouses and gardens, docents will be on hand to answer questions. The event will feature live musical entertainment

and puppet and magic shows. Tickets are $20 for adult members, $25 for adult nonmembers, $5 for children 5-17 and free for children 4 and under. Purchase tickets online at www.filoli.org or call Filoli weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 364-8300, ext. 508. Reservations should be made as soon as possible, because space is limited. Preordered box lunches, which must be ordered in advance, are available for $18 for adults and $10 for children. For more information and a schedule of activities, visit www. filoli.org.

Courtesy of Filoli

Empowerment Why it matters: Children with the ability to believe in themselves know they are effective in the world. Having learned their own strengths and weaknesses, they can rely on their strengths to handle life’s challenges. Teaching activity: Turn everyday activities into a mastering moment for your child. Choose activities like returning a library book or going to the market and give your child a job to do. For example, at the market have your child count all the yellow items in your basket. When cleaning up the playroom, have your child pick up everything that is square or blue. “Parents need and welcome resources that can help them be more confident in their parenting, and thus be more effective when empowering their children to be optimistic and resilient in realizing their own potential for success,” Reivich said. For more information, visit www.FishfulThinking.com. March 3, 2010 Los Altos Town Crier / Page 31

Your Kids

Camps & Schools 2010 26th Year TOWN CRIER FILE PHOTO

A local mother suggests encouraging children to try different extracurricular activities, like sports, but don’t push them into specializing in one too early unless they show true passion. • Expose the child to live theater, music performances, bands, From Page 27 vocal artists, etc. A well-rounded individual benefits from expoDiscipline empty compliment. – Diane sure and love of theater and mu• Let’s stop complimenting • Almost everything can fall sic. – Catherine our kids constantly about the under these rules: “No hurt• Encourage them to try diflittlest things they accomplish. ing people, feelings, animals or ferent extracurricular activities Save the praise for when they things.” When the rule is broken, (sports, dance, music, etc.), but do something really well, really ask the child which rule he or she don’t push them into specializing big, or they will go through life broke. – Diane in one too early unless they show thinking that all you have to do is • Remember a child always true passion. If they pick one too try a little and you are a big deal. needs boundaries. Discipline soon, they either burn out or deny Not so. Life is competitive; life is makes the child feel secure. – El- themselves of their true calling about working hard for accom- len later. – Andrea plishments. – Grandma • Turn off the TV. A child Communication who might seem incapable of Independence • God gave me two ears and entertaining him- or herself for • Put the baby down awake! one mouth, so I try to listen twice longer than one minute will actually surprise you and will soon How many of us love to rock as much as I talk. – Linda be able to sit with blocks or those babies to sleep, only a pile of books. – Robin to find ourselves still doing • Have an art table availit two sleepless years later, “Remember a child always able at all times and deal all night long? We then sucneeds boundaries. Discipline with a little mess. Have an cumb to the Ferber method makes the child feel secure.” on-call dress-up bin or clos(let the kid cry itself to – Ellen, local parent et. Creativity in play leads to sleep). Just do it right from creative writers and leaders. the start. – Anonymous – Robin • If they still have that darned binky at age 4, overnight • Having problems thinking of “lose” every single one of them something to talk about during Bonding • Take a trip with each of your and deal with the whimpering. dinner? Put topics on small piecchildren individually – just you Kick yourself for not “losing” it es of paper and pass the bucket and your child, no spouse, no earlier. – Amy around at mealtime (e.g., What sibling. It is a wonderful bonding • Make a big deal of your is mom’s favorite color?). You’ll experience. – Judy child’s first day of school by be surprised what your family • When on vacation, leave the buying him his very first alarm doesn’t know. – Debbie electronics at home. At first you clock. Kindergartners are young Development may see withdrawal symptoms, enough to be conned into think• If you want to create a life- but by the end of trip you will all ing that using an alarm clock is a time “pleasure” reader, starting be closer. – Anonymous privilege. – Diane • Teach responsibility for at toddler age, make special trips themselves as soon as possible. It to the bookstore and visit the li- Setting an example • Don’t let having kids hold is an ongoing job. They need to brary together as much as posown their own world – what they sible. – Anonymous See WISDOM, Page 33

WISDOM

do in it, how they behave in it and how they respect it, both the people and places. – Peggy

Page 32 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

Golden Eagle Summer Swim & Sports Camp Weekly camps beginning June 14 thru July 30 (ages 5-14) 10am-4pm (7:30am-6pm extended hours) Los Altos High School, 201 Almond Ave, Los Altos Homestead High School, 21370 Homestead Rd., Cupertino

“Funnest” camp in the area; run by teachers & athletes. Free T-Shir ts. $225 per week, or special summer rates.

(650) 298-9740 • www.goldeneaglecamp.org

SUMMER CAMPS IN LOS ALTOS & WOODSIDE

650-941-2848

WWW.DECATHLONSPORTSCLUB.COM

Your Kids WISDOM From Page 32

you back from exercising, running or biking. You’ll be a better parent for it, plus they will have wonderful role models. – Judy • Let your children see you spending time with your signifi-

cant other, time that does not include them. … It is important for children to learn they are not the center of the universe and that parents/partners need to spend time with each other. – Anonymous • As hard as it is to hear, often the most effective way to change your child’s behavior is to change

your own. – Deb

Practical advice from the trenches • If you have more than one child, buy a van. Position them so there is no way they can touch or see each other. If they fight, just turn up the music. – Debbie • Give your child choices. It

helps them be in control without you having to relinquish your control. – Debbie • There will never come a time when you are done worrying about your child. Your son could be elected pope, and you’d still worry. It’s your job. – Peggy • Plant fruit trees/vegetables and help your children pick their

own fruits and veggies to eat. – Anonymous • Don’t worry if food falls on the floor in the grocery store. … Just hand it back to the child and assume it’s building immunities. – Amy

Lastly • And, of course, when all else fails, use bribery. – Anonymous Kerri Havnen Gordon writes The Living Exper iment monthly for the Town Crier. E-mail her at livingexperiment@ pacbell.net.

books From Page 29

wonderful contributions to picture books in the past five years, I cannot help but end with an invitation to sample his new book, “The Heart and the Bottle,” scheduled for release this week (Philomel, 2010). While Jeffers’ “The Incredible Book-Eating Boy” (2007) is full of wit and gentle wryness (and like Lauren Child’s “Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Book?” is playfully aware of itself as a text), “The Heart and the Bottle” holds more in common with the understated poignancy of his other work, notably “Lost and Found” (2005) and his first book, “How to Catch a Star” (2004).

Don’t miss out! The Food & Wine and Senior Lifestyles special sections will be featured in the March 10 issue of the Los Altos Town Crier. March 3, 2010 Los Altos Town Crier / Page 33

Your Kids Peninsula Youth Theatre to open ‘Willy Wonka’ Town Crier Report

andy-obsessed children learn about greed, manners and the magic of “pure imagination” in “Willy Wonka,” a Peninsula Youth Theatre production scheduled to run March 13-21 at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St. The musical is a stage adaption of the popular 1971 movie “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” based on the book of the same name by Roald Dahl. The score features songs by Leslie

Golden-ticket winners Augustus Gloop (Jesse Carlson), Mike Teavee (Ben Boston), Violet Beauregard (Carley Gilbert) and Charlie Bucket (Kaizen Betts-LaCroix) surround Willy Wonka (Brandon Blackman of Los Altos, center), who has promised them a tour of his famous chocolate factory in Peninsula Youth Theatre’s musical production of “Willy Wonka.”

Bricusse and Anthony Newley, including “Candy Man” and “Pure Imagination.” More than 100 area children have been cast in PYT’s production. Performances are scheduled 2 and 7:30 p.m. March 13 and 20, 1 and 6:30 p.m. March 14, 7:30 p.m. March 19 and 1 p.m. March 21. In addition, discounted school performances are set for 9:30 a.m. March 18 and 19. For tickets ($7-$18) and more information, call 903-6000 or visit www.pytnet.org.

COURTESY OF KAREN SIMPSON/PYT

THE LIVELY SCHOOL Register Now for Spring Session

ChildCare & PresChool

LOS ALTOS

CHILDREN’S PRESCHOOL CENTER

4000 Middlefield Rd, T-1 650-493-5770 • www.cpsccares.org NAEYC Accredited child development programs for infants thru pre-K.

STEPPINg STONES PRESCHOOL & INfANT CARE 1122 Convington Road 650-960-1303 • www.ssp-la.com Owner Operated, Infant to Pre-K. Quality Day-Care at reasonable cost for the Discerning Parent in an Environment of Learning and Play.

CHILDREN’S CORNER

Hillview Community Center 650-948-8950 www.lamvchildrenscorner.org Developmental Learning Preschool mornings, afternoons, drop-in. Ages 2-6. Young Fives a.m. class. The curriculum follows principles and practices of top academic research in early childhood education in an environment that perfectly balances structure and free exploration. NAEYC Accredited.

LOS ALTOS PARENT PRESCHOOL

199 Almond Ave. 650-947-9371 • www.lapp.coop Co-op preschool, social/ cognitive skill building. Programs for ages 2.5 - 5 Yrs. Now accepting applications.

SAINT SIMON PRESCHOOL

1840 Grant Road. (650) 967-3293 • www.stsimon.org Age 4 by September 1 Now Accepting Applications

MIRAMONTE PRESCHOOL

1175 Altamead Dr. • 650-967-2783 Fun Christian environment. Focus on K readiness skills. Age 4 by 12/2/09. Now accepting applications.

TINy TOTS PRESCHOOL & KINDER PREP

647 San Antonio Rd. • 650-947-2890 Where the love of school begins... 3yrs Tue & Thurs 9:30am-12pm. 4yrs Mon/Wed/Fri 9:30am-12pm. 5yrs Mon-Fri 1-4pm. Social Recreation program that is a healthy balance of education with physical, social, and emotional growth! Limited space available! Call for a tour today!

DANCE: Modern/Ballet Creative Movement • Yoga For kids and Adults • Groups & Private Classes

direCtory

SUNNyVALE KIDZ WONDERLAND

Your child’s home away from home. 408-747-5035 • Lic #434411455 danchour@gmail.com A nurturing, positive and loving environment for your precious ones. We have openings for infants to age 4. Activities include story-time, sing-a-longs, craft projects. Help teach your child their ABCs, 123s, colors and shapes. Low child ratio provides more attention to your child. CPR and First Aid certified. Flexible hours and reasonable rates. No overtime, late or registration fees. Please ask for Dennie.

CHAMPION KINDER INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

PALO ALTO MILESTONES PRESCHOOL

3864 Middlefield Rd. 650-618-3325 leah@AbilitiesUnited.org www.AbilitiesUnited.org 1:5 teacher/student ratio, credentialed early childhood development staff.

MONTESSORI SCHOOL Of LOS ALTOS

303 Parkside Drive • 650-493-7200 www.montessorischooloflosaltos.org A world-class preschool in a worldclass facility where your child’s education includes academics, art, music, dance, outdoor play, & much more • Classic 3-year Montessori Curriculum • Daily Orff music, French, Mandarin and Spanish lessons • Summer Swim Program • Kindergarten Program prepares children for the best schools.

Page 34 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

1055 Sunnyvale-Saratoga Rd World Class Facility for Mandarin Immersion Preschool. Brand new, 12,000sf center with: dance/kung fu studio; enrichment center for arts & crafts, science, group music; private piano & music practice rooms; children’s library & computer room; fenced-in 20,000 sf outdoor play area; Free group piano/ keyboard lessons, twice a week. First 50 F/T students rate locked until summer 2011 without increase. Daily Onsite Tour (408) 735-8333 (10am-6pm); (650) 353-0882 (off business hrs). championyes.com/preschool.html

The ChildCare & Preschool Directory publishes year round. If you would like to include your school call Elaine at 650-948-9000 x 308.

New this Spring! Photo & Art Workshops Taught by Karie Challinor Classes meet at 890 Church St., Mountain View Internationally acclaimed dancer, Leslie Friedman, Director “She’s Simply a joy to watch!” The Times, London

Call 650/969-4110

See www.livelyfoundation.org

Time for ‘Food & Wine’ The Town Crier’s “Food & Wine” section is usually published the second week of the month. To advertise, call 948-9000. To send story ideas, call Editor Bruce Barton at 948-9000, ext. 301.

Spiritual Life

How to forgive for good: Author offers three practical ways By the Rev. Malcolm Young

any pastoral problems we face have to do with forgiveness. Some kind of forgiving is involved in overcoming childhood neglect or abuse, substance addiction, extramarital affairs or family conflict. We all face challenges to our powers of forgiveness. Forgiveness is not simply accepting another person’s bad behavior, or denying that something has hurt us when it has. Forgiveness does not mean sweeping everything under the rug or merely forgetting what hurt us. Instead, forgiveness is a way of leaving the past in the past. Hurt and anger are appropriate,

but only as fleeting emotions. Forgiveness is a choice we make, a way of healing our spirit so that we don’t have to suffer indefinitely. Forgiveness is not magical. It is a skill you can learn, a way of taking responsibility for your feelings. Fred Luskin directs the Stanford Forgiveness Project. In his book “Forgive for Good” (HarperOne, 2003), he writes about three practical things we can do to forgive. But first he points out that we have work to do before we even begin forgiving. This involves understanding why we feel hurt and clarifying our story with two or three people we trust. The remarkable thing to me is

Enjoy the best meals of the season. March Pie Special Banana Cream $699 +pie tin deposit

Friday & Saturday Nights Starting at 5pm

Prime Rib Dinner

starting at $15.99 includes choice of a cup of soup or house salad, cornbread or garlic bread and a slice of pie for dessert (excludes Fresh Strawberry Pie & Cheesecakes).

NIGHTLY DINNER SPECIALS Sunday-Thursday • Starting at 5pm

All served with your choice of garlic or corn bread. Add a slice of pie for only $2 (excludes cheesecakes).

Flat Iron Steak

Spaghetti and Meatballs Grilled Rainbow Trout

Wednesday:

Braised Lamb Shank

Thursday:

Choose any Pasta Dish off our menu

served with rice & vegetables

Religious Directory To list your Religious Organization call Elaine in classifieds @ 650-948-9000 x308 Los Altos Union Presbyterian Church 858 University Ave. (650) 948-4361 Visit us on the web at unionpc.org Sunday Schedule: 3 Worship Times!

God is still Speaking, No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.

Foothills Congregational Church, UCC

Foothills Congregational Church, UCC 461 Orange Ave 461 Orange Ave COMTEMPLATIVE EARLY WORSHIP 8:30 a.m. Summer Service:10:00 a.m. WORSHIP 10:00 a.m. • CHURCH SCHOOL 10:00 a.m. 650-948-8430 child care provided www.foothills-church.org 650-948-8430 • www.foothills-church.org

8:00 a.m. with free breakfast buffet 9:30 a.m. with free breakfast buffet 11:00 a.m. in sanctuary with Sunday schools at 9:45 a.m.

Saturday Services 10:00 am & 11:00 am Wednesday Study Groups 10:00 am & 7:00 pm 1425 Springer Rd., M.V. Ofc. Hrs. 9-1 , M-F, 650-967-2189 Curtis Church, Pastor

Rev. Joseph Benedict, Pastor Sunday Worship at 8:00 and 10:00 am

www.stwcc.org

ST. SIMON CATHOLIC CHURCH

LOS ALTOS LUTHERAN Bringing God’s Love & Hope to All • Children’s Nursery • Worship Services Sunday 9:00 am – Worship 10:15 am – Fellowship 10:30 am – Education

Mass Schedule: Weekday: Saturday: Sunday:

Pastor David K. Bonde Outreach Pastor Gary Berkland 460 So. El Monte (at Cuesta)

plus tax

served with mashed potatoes & vegetables

Nightly Dinner Specials not valid on holidays and cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or coupon. Valid at Los Altos location only.

50% OFF ENTRÉE

With the purchase of another entrée of greater or equal value. Must present coupon to server when ordering. Only the lower priced entree will be discounted. Good for up to two discounts per party of 4. Not valid with Nightly Dinner Specials, $5.99 Daily Lunch Specials, $7.99 Burger Combo, Baked Cavatappi & Ceasar Combo. Not valid on any holiday. Dine in only. Valid at Los Altos location only. Cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or coupon. No cash value. Expires 03/10/10.

4710 El Camino Real • Los Altos • (650) 941-6989

6:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m. 8:30 a.m., 5:00 p.m. 7:30, 9:00, 10:45, 12:15, 5:00

1860 Grant Rd, Los Altos

Office open daily • (650) 948-3012 www.losaltoslutheran.org email: office@losaltoslutheran.org

served with mashed potatoes & vegetables

Monday: Tuesday:

that this is enough. After this, it is time to leave that incident behind and begin to forgive. The first strategy Luskin mentions is to change our expectations of others and ourselves. This involves learning that there is a personal and impersonal aspect to every social interaction. We need to not take so much personally. The second thing he observes is that we need to take responsi-

The power that we find in being children of God means that we go out in the world not just offering forgiveness, but actively seeking reconciliation. Luskin is scheduled to speak on forgiveness 6:30 p.m. March 10 at Christ Episcopal Church, 1040 Border Road, Los Altos. A follow-up workshop, “Everyday Forgiveness,” is slated 9:15 a.m. March 18 and 25. The Rev. Malcolm Young serves as rector of Christ Episcopal Church in Los Altos. For more information, visit www. ccla.us.

MOUNTAIN VIEW CENTRAL SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

PRIME RIB

Sunday:

Pastor’s Perspective

bility for our own feelings, otherwise the reason for our problem lies outside the self. Ultimately we are the ones who decide how we respond to what happens to us. Luskin’s final suggestion is to craft a story for our life in which we see ourselves as heroes who overcome adversity rather than as victims who have been wronged. God’s story, which we inherit from the most ancient times, makes it hard for us to go on seeing ourselves as victims. Every person is a child of God blessed with gifts of beauty and power that help us to prevail.

650-967-8311

For St. Simon School visit www.stsimon.com Rev. Warwick James, Pastor

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN CHURCH “Sharing God’s Unconditional Love”

An Evangelical, Community Church

8:00 WEEKLY COMMUNION SERVICE 9:15Contemporary Contemporary Worship 9:00 Worship With with Sunday Sunday School School 9:15 Adult Bible Study Worship & Weekly Communion 10:4511:00 Worship with Choir & Weekly Communion

Worship 10:30 am Child care provided

650.967.7447 Oak & Truman in Los Altos

9:00am to 12:00 Nursery Care

1715 LOSALTOS ALTOS 1715 GRANT GRANT ROAD ROAD•LOS

across from Mountain View High School www.foothillcov.org

BETWEEN FOOTHILL BLVD. AND FREMONT RD. Phone: 650-967-4906 • www.immanuel-losaltos.org

ST. NICHOLAS CATHOLIC CHURCH 473 Lincoln Avenue Los Altos, CA 94022 (650) 948-2158 Rev. Larry P. Percell, Pastor

Masses: Saturday 5:00 PM Sun. 8:00, 9:15, 10:45 AM & 12:15 PM

Family Friends Faith It’s what’s Important. It’s who we are.

Please join us in welcoming our new pastor Timothy Boyer Biblically based Sermons, Sunday Bible Study: 9 AM Sunday Worship Service: 10:30 AM

First Presbyterian Church 1667 Miramonte (Cuesta at Miramonte) 650/968-4473 • www.fpcmv.org

First Church of Christ, Scientist 401 University Ave. (650) 948-3602 www.cschurchlosaltos.com

Sunday Service 10 to 11 am Sunday School 10 to 11 am Wednesday Meeting 7:30 to 8:30 pm Child care provided at all services

Christian Science Reading Room 60 Main Street, 948-4541

March 3, 2010/ Los Altos Town Crier / Page 35

Stepping Out

LA Youth Theatre raises ‘Great Expectations’ Town Crier Report

os Altos Youth Theatre’s production of Charles Dickens’ classic tale “Great Expectations” is scheduled to open Friday and run through March 20 at the Bus Barn Theater. “Great Expectations” is the story of a boy named Pip (played by Ben Lilly of Los Altos) and his journey from rags to riches. Through a series of chance encounters with classic characters such as Herbert Pocket (Francesca Allegra of Los Altos), Abel Magwitch (Adrian Carter of Los Altos) and the eerie Miss Havisham (Sarah Velichko), Pip rises from the life of a blacksmith’s apprentice to the high society of London. All the while, he fawns over the unrequited love of his life, Estella (Michaela Stewart of Los Altos). Pip’s determination, loyalty and good heart drag him through a series of fantastic adventures around London. The cast also includes Los Altos residents Alex Blackburn, Zac Blackburn, Catharine Kristian, Sam Gavinman, Emma Haliday and Timmy Smith, and Los Altos Hills residents Shai Baharav, Noam Baharav, Yuval Baharav

MALCOLM YOUNG/SPECIAL TO THE TOWN CRIER

Los Altos Youth Theatre’s production of “Great Expectations” stars Ben Lilly as Pip, left, and Michaela Stewart as Estella. and Devlin Stewart. Performances are scheduled 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. The Bus Barn Theater is located at 97 Hill-

view Ave., Los Altos. Tickets are $12 general admission, $10 children and seniors. For tickets and more information, call 941-0551.

Company C brings ballet to Mtn. View this Saturday Town Crier Report

ompany C Contemporary Ballet is scheduled to perform its 2010 Winter Program 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts, 500 Castro St. The program includes: Lar Lubovitch’s “Cavalcade,” with music by Steve Reich; Amy Seiwert’s “Dreams to Remember,” with music by Otis Redding; Charles Anderson’s “Akimbo,” with music by Ornette Coleman, Ben Johnston, Jon Hassel and Kevin Volans; and Charles Moulton’s “Nine Person Ball Passing,” with music by A. Leroy. “We’re keeping the momentum of the last few seasons with productions that mix world premieres, masterworks by noted choreographers and company originals into a show that is interesting and unique,” said Anderson, who is also Company C ‘s artistic director. For tickets ($19-$43) and more information, call 903-6000 or visit www.companycballet.org.

MARTY SOHL/SPECIAL TO THE TOWN CRIER

Aaron Jackson performs with Company C Contemporary Ballet, based in Walnut Creek.

Blanchard to join Stanford Symphony Saturday at Memorial Auditorium Town Crier Report

irtuoso jazz composer/trumpeter Terence Blanchard and his quintet are scheduled to join the Stanford Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Page 36 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

Jindong Cai, 8 p.m. Saturday at Stanford University. The multimedia performance of Blanchard’s Grammy-winning “A Tale of God’s Will (A Requiem for Katrina)” will be held in Memorial Auditorium. For tickets ($24-$56), call 725-2787.

Datebook Datebook items are run on a space-available basis for entertainment, non-profit events, low-cost classes and groups of wide interest in our circulation area. The deadline is noon Tuesday for the next weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s paper. Notices must be typed and include a contact name and phone number. Items may be submitted via e-mail (peteb@latc.com); fax (948-6647); or post (138 Main St., Los Altos, CA 94022).

THEATER â&#x20AC;&#x153;Great Expectations.â&#x20AC;? Charles Dickensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; classic tale of a boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey from rags to riches. Los Altos Youth Theater. 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sundays, through March 20. Bus Barn Theater, 97 Hillview Ave., Los Altos. $10-$12. 9410551.

EVENTS Mushroom Hike. Learn to identify and appreciate the strange and wonderful mushrooms in the Hidden Villa woods. Led by Wade Leschyn of the Mycological Society of San Francisco. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 20. 26870 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills. Contingent on weather. $12$16. 949-9704; www.hiddenvilla.org.

Hidden Villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s animal pens and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organic garden, and try out educational art activities celebrating Mexican heritage. 2-5 p.m. March 28. 26870 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills. Bilingual guides available. Free. 9499704; www.hiddenvilla.org.

LECTURES â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Many Mysteries of Antimatter.â&#x20AC;? Part of the 11th Annual Silicon Valley Astronomy Lectures. Stanford University professor and author Helen Quinn discusses the history of our understanding of antimatter and how we use the little bit of antimatter around today to study some of the highest energy processes among the stars and galaxies. 7 p.m. today. Smithwick Theater, Foothill College, 12345 S. El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills. Free; parking $2. 949-7888.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Forgive for Good: an evening with author Fred Luskin, Ph.D.â&#x20AC;? The director of the Stanford Forgiveness Project shares his research, including practical steps that enable people to forgive and measurably increase their mental and physical well-being. 7 p.m. today. Christ Episcopal Church, 1040 Border Road, Los Altos. Free; childcare available for $5/child with advance reservation. 948-2151; http://forgiveforgood.eventbrite.com. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Reducing Your Exposure to Toxic Chemicals.â&#x20AC;? Learn about the health effects of toxic environmental exposures and actions you can take to reduce exposure to toxics in food, household and personal care products, in both indoor and outdoor environments. Speaker: Environmental

See DATEBOOK, Page 39

Obituary Notices MARION LOUISE â&#x20AC;&#x153;MAY LOUâ&#x20AC;? WINCOTE ELLIOTT

A memorial service has been held on Sat u rd ay Febr ua r y 27, 2010 at Spanglerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Los Altos Chap el. 39 9 S. Sa n A nton io Rd., Los Altos and was followed by a gathering of friends and family. In lieu of f lowers, the fa mi ly suggest s t hat donat ions b e made in her name to the Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association, 1060 La Avenida St., Mountain View, CA 94043.

RICHARD S. GLIDDEN Sustainable Building Tour. Tour Hidden Villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sustainable buildings, featuring solar electric generation, rammed earth and straw bale construction, recycled materials and more. 3:30-5 p.m. Sunday. 26870 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills. Ages 10 and up. $10. 949-9704; www.hiddenvilla.org. Afternoon Wine and Cheese. Flavor your cheeses with herbs and fruits you gather from Hidden Villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden, then pair your creations with wine you bring to share. 4-6 p.m. Sunday. 26870 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills. Adults only. $20-$25. 9499704; www.hiddenvilla.org. Sheep Shearing Day. Watch Hidden Villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sheep get their annual haircut and take part in wool-related activities. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 21. 26870 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills. $8; free for 2 and under. 949-9704; www.hiddenvilla.org. A Taste of Hidden Villa Summer Camp. A preview of this summerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program. Meet camp staff, get questions answered and help raise scholarship funds. 2-5:30 p.m. March 27. 26870 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills. For ages 6-18. Free; pre-registration required. 949-9704; www.hiddenvilla.org. Cesar Chavez Celebration. Visit

FEBRUARY 11, 1923 FEBRUARY 13, 2010 Marion passed away peacefully at the age of 87. The daughter of Charles B. Wincote and Vivian Wincote, Marion was born and raised in San Diego, California and graduated from San Diego High School in 1941. An advocate for life-long learning, she continued her studies at San Diego State University, and later received an AA degree in Library Science and a BA in Art History from San Jose State University in 1978. During World War II she put her talents to work for her country as a draftsman for a San Diego aircraft manufacturer. Marion was an accomplished athlete who excelled in badminton, tennis, horseback riding and sailing. As a highly creative and curious person, she loved to work in ceramics, textile crafts, jewelry, stained glass, and brass rubbing, but her greatest love was traveling the world and experiencing history in person. As an avid geneologist all her life, Marion compiled and published many detailed family histories, including an autobiography and other stories about her beloved grandfather, Admiral William H. Standley. Marion was predeceased by her beloved child, Kent and brother, Standley B. Wincote. She is survived by her sister, Vivian Ray Wilson, her former husband, Dr. Hugh W. Elliott and her children, Vivian Wenger, Craig and Pam Elliott, Tracy and Edward Silva, and Kirk and Colleen Elliott. She will also be greatly missed by her cherished grandchildren Kayla Silva, Matthew Wenger, and Cole, Chase, and Craig Elliott.

Board. His love of sailing took him in his retirement years to Deer Harbor, Orcas Island, Washington, where he also served on the Library Board and was the last President of the Board before the library became a part of the San Juan County system. He was an avid reader and enjoyed cooking and listening to opera. He was a gentleman in all respects and in every aspect of his life. In accordance with his wishes, his remains have been cremated and will be scattered at his beloved Orcas Island. A memorial service will be held later at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Eastsound, Washington. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Sacred Heart Medical Center of Eugene, Oregon, the Richard S. Glidden Family Library Fund of the Orcas Island Community Foundation, or the charity of oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s choice.

DELLOYD EDWARD TOBIE (DICK)

Richard Spencer Glidden died Monday, February 15, 2010 in Eugene, Oregon. He was born on December 23, 1910 in Evanston, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jay and Lola (Tabor) Glidden. He is survived by his wife of nearly 68 years, Joan Dexter Glidden, by his three sons Jonathan, Shelby and Peter, by daughterin-law Julie, and by his granddaughter Sarah. He was a long-time resident first of Highland Park, Illinois, then of Los Altos Hills, California, and finally of Deer Harbor, Washington. He attended Shattuck Military Academy, Faribault, Minnesota. He worked in various business offices in Chicago, Illinois during the Depression years and married Joan, also of Highland Park, Illinois, on March 20, 1942. Shortly thereafter he entered the United States Army and was selected for Officer Candidate School. He served as a First Lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers in the European Theatre during the remainder of World War II. After the War Richard and Joan moved to Los Altos, California where Richard became a General Contractor, designing and building many homes in Los Altos and Los Altos Hills. He was one of the founders and the first Moderator of Foothills Congregational Church of Los Altos. He served on the Los Altos Library

DeLloyd Edward Tobie (Dick) a long time time resident of Los Altos, had a peaceful passing on January 30, 2010 he was 90 years old. He lived a full and adventurous life and always kept the stories flowing. His wife Dorthy, children Jason, Lana, Paul, and six grandchildren survive him. Proceeded in death by youngest son Dan Tobie. At 18 years old Dick got the incurable flying itch and left Wisconsin for Homestead, Florida. There he took flying lessons he paid for by being a hopper loader for a crop dusting outfit. With help from his mining engineer brother in South America, and savings from jobs he bought himself a J3 Cub for $600.00 and followed the rivers and highways north to Wisconsin. Landing where he could, even once on a high-

way to refuel at a gas station. Sleeping under the wings in farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fields and giving rides for gas he found his true passion. He later traded in the J3 Cub for a clipped wing Monocoupe and loved racing and performing aerobatics at air shows. In 1940 he was hired with United Airlines at the age of 21 as the youngest commercial airline pilot. After completion of training in Oakland at the Boeing school of Aeronautics he was sent to Chicago Midway for line check in the B-247. In SFO he flew the DC-3 and was later transitioned to the DC-4, DC-6, DC-7, DC8, B-747. As part of the war effort he spent time flying military contracts to Alaskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aleutian Islands. Dick retired number one on the seniority list for United Airlines in 1979. In 1943 Dick fell in love with a T WA f light attendant, Dor thy Hawkins. Their partnership through the 66 years of marriage included a storybook life of travel and special times with family and friends. Dick took great pride as the founder and owner of the Los Altos Sub-Acute & Rehabilitation Center located on Fremont Ave. He loved being outdoors, and was often duck hunting, fishing, playing tennis or jogging. Dick was one of the true pioneers of the airline industry who saw a vast scope of technological and safety changes that have made flying what it is today. Two of his sons inherited his love of flying and became career commercial airline pilots. We miss him, and wish him a restful layover in the wild blue yonder.

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4HE 4OWN #RIER S OBITUARY PUBLISHING RATES ARE A LINE EXTRA WITH A PHOTO -INIMUM CHARGE IS WITHOUT PHOTO $%!$,).% 4HURSDAY AT NOON PRIOR TO NEXT 7EDNESDAY S PUBLICATION )F HOLIDAY IS INVOLVED CHECK WITH US

0LEASE E MAIL ELAINEC LATC COM 4HE 4OWN #RIER IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR OBITUARY CONTENT 0AID OBITUARIES ARE PROVIDED BY FAMILIES OR MORTUARIES

March 3, 2010/ Los Altos Town Crier / Page 37

Home&Business Guide

650-948-9000 ext. 308 â&#x20AC;˘ Classified FAX 650-948-4021 â&#x20AC;˘ email: elainec@latc.com CHECK IT OUT! YOUR AD IS ON THE INTERNET!! Our new website is up and running! Go to www.losaltosonline.com. Click on ClassiďŹ eds then Home & Business to view your ad!

cleaning

cOncReTe

elecTRical

PERSONAL CASTLES

HOME & YARD IMPROVEMENT

CirCuit

Cleaning is what we do best. Specializing in marble, hardwood, windows. Long term commitment! www.personalcastles.com

Sophia:

408-777-8546

â&#x20AC;˘ Concrete â&#x20AC;˘ Asphalt â&#x20AC;˘ Tree Work â&#x20AC;˘ Fencing â&#x20AC;˘ Pavers â&#x20AC;˘ Yard Cleaning â&#x20AC;˘ Landscaping

RepaiR W

gaRDening ORKOPINA CONCRETE & GARDENING SERVICE

Lic #545936

(650) 834-1111

Bob 650-343-5125

cOnSTRUcTiOn

P M ELECTRIC

â&#x20AC;˘ Trim â&#x20AC;˘ New Land â&#x20AC;˘ Sprinkler â&#x20AC;˘ Design â&#x20AC;˘ Concrete â&#x20AC;˘ Lighting â&#x20AC;˘ Powerwash & more. Free Estimate.

FLORES GARDEN SERVICE

J. L. GARDENING SERVICES

General Clean Ups. All Tree Work. Pruning. Trimming etc. Sprinkler Systems. Local for 35 yrs. Free Est.

Comm/Residential â&#x153;&#x201C; Trouble Shooting Repairs & Installations

â&#x153;&#x201C;

650-962-1536

All jobs wanted! lic # 790398

ORKOPINA CLEANING SERVICE - SINCE 1985 "THE BEST SERVICE AND REFERENCE FOR YOU"

650-279-1281

Fencing

Meticulous & Quality work Specialist in unseen areas & Disinfecting

Last minute calls welcome.

650-962-1536 License # 020624

Monthly â&#x20AC;˘ Maintenances Clean Up â&#x20AC;˘ Sprinklers Trimming â&#x20AC;˘ Mowing Hauling â&#x20AC;˘ Free Estimates Jose 408-774-1251 Cell 650-283-4050

** SINCE 1989 ** General Landscaping & Clean-Up

ork

â&#x153;&#x201C;

Laundry â&#x20AC;˘ Ironing â&#x20AC;˘ Windows â&#x20AC;˘ Stripping Waxing â&#x20AC;˘ Blinds â&#x20AC;˘ Wall Washing â&#x20AC;˘ Buffing â&#x20AC;˘ Construction Clean-Up MOVE-IN / MOVE OUT

Diaz Garden Services

#!,6). 3 2%0!)23

CONSTRUCTION CO Custom Homes Remodels Room Additions Design

650-949-0222

Los Altos, CA

Lic #552444

s &ENCES s 'ATES s $ECKS s #LEAN 2EPAIR 2OOFS 'UTTERS YRS %XP

www.losaltosonline.com cOnSTRUcTiOn

HAMMERSCHMIDT CONSTRUCTION LOS ALTOS, CA Complete Residential Design and Build Services â&#x20AC;˘ Design/Plans/Permits â&#x20AC;˘ Fixed Price Contracts â&#x20AC;˘ Additions/Kitchens/Baths â&#x20AC;˘ Certified Green Builder â&#x20AC;˘ Whole House Remodels â&#x20AC;˘ 95% Repeat Business & Referrals

(650) 948-4200

â&#x153;Ż Garden & Landscape Care â&#x153;Ż Full Wkly/Bi-weekly Service â&#x153;Ż Pruning & Planting â&#x153;Ż Clean-ups â&#x153;Ż Free Est.

650-520-9097 650-988-8694

www.jlgardening.com

ANGEL'S SERVICES Yard & Hillside Clean-Up Yard Maintenance Sprinkler - Installation/Repair New Lawn - Sod/Seed Planting Window Cleaning Snr. Cit. Discount Free Est. 7 days a week Miguel

650-630-1114

SAM'S GARDEN SERVICE

General clean-up, new lawns, lawn renovation, trimming, pruning, sprinkler systems, gutter cleaning Electric Timers /Valve Repair

650-969-9894

Free est.

Garden/Landscape Lawns, plants, clean-up, fences, irrigation systems, new lawns, lights. Lic #63901

408-541-9668 650-279-3748

www.hammerschmidtinc.com License #716400

Notice to ReadeRs California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor and/or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State law also requires that contractors include their license numbers on all advertising. Check your contractorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s status at www.cslb.ca.gov or 800-321CSLB (2752). Unlicensed persons taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.

Page 38 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

Complete Landscape Design & Installation Services

LANDSCAPING COMPANY Lic. #720975

losaltoslandscaping.com

650-940-1916 MERVYN SALT LANDSCAPES

of Los aLtos

â&#x20AC;˘ Full Service Landscape Construction â&#x20AC;˘ Mediterranean gardens â&#x20AC;˘ Planting â&#x20AC;˘ New lawns a specialty. Combining Art & Craft since 1979 â&#x20AC;˘ Diamond Certified â&#x20AC;˘ Preferred Service Magic Contractor

650-339-1751

ABLE HANDYMAN FRED Resid/Commercial Maintenance, Prof. Painting, Carpentry, Plumbing, Electrical, Cabinets, Deck, Fence. Over 25+ yrs exp. Specials for Seniors. 7 days wk. 650-529-1662 650-483-4227

Tom: 650-248-4434

General ConstruCtion and Handyman serviCe â&#x20AC;˘ Bathroom/Kitchen Remodel â&#x20AC;˘ Carpentry, Retro fitting â&#x20AC;˘ Decks & Patios â&#x20AC;˘ Local refs â&#x20AC;˘ 25 years exp.

(650) 265-8315 walterfinnerty@yahoo.com Lic #897206

Homes â&#x20AC;˘ Apts. â&#x20AC;˘ Storage Fully Licenced / Insured. #CAL-T 190632

650-630-0424 armndomvn@comcast.net PainTing

lanDScaPing

Furniture repair â&#x20AC;˘ plumbing Carpentry â&#x20AC;˘ painting â&#x20AC;˘ electrical Best priCe GUaranteeD

Lic. B #494977

ArmAndo's moving

650-327-HAUL

Bryanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home repair

tom.tarani@yahoo.com

â&#x153;HAULINGâ&#x153;

Free Estimates â&#x20AC;˘ Insured

HanDYman

New Home, Remodelling, Additions, Framing & Carpentry, Plumbing, Tile, Drywall, Tape/Texture, Elec.

mOveRS

LARGE TRUCKS Dump Runs â&#x20AC;˘ Trees Clean-ups LARGE/small JOBS

650-948-8965

Jobs of any size!!

HaUling

408-865-0521

www.mervynsaltlandscapes.com Lic # C27-494793

PTA LAndscAPe

Landscape Construction â&#x20AC;˘ Planting â&#x20AC;˘ Sprinkler â&#x20AC;˘ Concrete â&#x20AC;˘ Masonry â&#x20AC;˘ Carpentry â&#x20AC;˘ Pavers â&#x20AC;˘ Lighting â&#x20AC;˘ Drainage â&#x20AC;˘ Tear-Out & much more www.ptaland.com

Barreto Painting

Interior/Exterior Residential & Commercial Quality Work/Reasonable Rates 30 yrs. in Los Altos Lic. #629065

650-948-6808

ROOFing ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝

ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ Al Peterson RooďŹ ng since 1946 ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ Specializing in â&#x20AC;˘ Repairs â&#x20AC;˘ RerooďŹ ng ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ â&#x20AC;˘ Maintenance ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ â&#x20AC;˘ Gutter cleaning â&#x20AC;˘ Moss removal ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ 650-493-9177

CALVINâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ REPAIRS

â&#x20AC;˘ Clean & Repair Roofs & Gutters

â&#x20AC;˘ Fences â&#x20AC;˘ Gates â&#x20AC;˘ Decks 30+ yrs. exp. (650) 520-4922

SWimming POOl SeRvice

License No. 354206

650-208-3891

Catch us Online 650-948-9000

Local Service Since 1980

Andyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pool Service

Consistent Excellence! â&#x2DC;&#x2026; Equip. install/repairs â&#x2DC;&#x2026; Weekly maintenance Lic. #C53-779840

650.823.8741

TRee SeRvice BAY AREA TREE SPECIALISTS

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Caring for your trees . . . Adding value to your Propertyâ&#x20AC;?

Owned by Certified Arborist Richard Smith WE8745A

Lic# 836837

*10% discount on all services*

*A one time 10% discount will be applied to any work that we are contracted to do that is secured with a deposit by March 31, 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ Stump Grinding/ â&#x20AC;˘ A bonded/licensed / insured â&#x20AC;˘ Free Estimates Removal Professional Company â&#x20AC;˘ Aesthetic Pruning & Trimming â&#x20AC;˘ 35+ Years combined Experience â&#x20AC;˘ Tree End Weight Reduction â&#x20AC;˘ Vista Pruning â&#x20AC;˘ Complete Tree Services â&#x20AC;˘ Crown Reduction â&#x20AC;˘ 24 Hour Emergency â&#x20AC;˘ Root Feeding/ Service â&#x20AC;˘ Tree Installation/Removal Fertilization

"Our goal is complete customer satisfaction"

Call 408-836-9147 / 650-562-3636

Serving the entire San Jose / San Francisco Bay area

Classified

650-948-9000 ext. 308 â&#x20AC;˘ Classified FAX 650-948-4021

201 Merchandise 100 Professional Wanted OLD TUBE EQUIPMENT - radiServices WALLPAPERING - 24 years experience. Free estimates. Call Trish 650-949-1820 PAINTING/HOME REPAIRS 25 yrs. exp., Exc. Refs. Free Est. Larry 650-964-7922 NEED A BIOLOGY TUTOR? Prev. exp. in tutoring high school biology. Degree in biology from the Australian University and a wealth of field exp. Resume avail. upon request. $20/hr. Call/text Erica, 650-799-9652. HOUSECLEANING- by Diana. Prof. exp, low rates, family bus, reliable/depend. Great L.A. refs. Lic.# 447435. 408-806-1415 or 408-578-5489 Cristina GUTTERS / PR ESSUR E WASHING - 15+ yrs. exp. Int/ Ext Painting. Cabinet Restoration/ Finish. Deck Strip/ Restoration. Local. Exc. Refs. Free Est. Licd. (408) 306-5578 MURALS Hand Painted Interiors Muralist artist painting.Residential & commercial interiors incl. creative decoration to furniture. Online portfolio.www.polkadotbuggy.com Polka Dot Buggy Susan 650-386-6141/ 650-814-1480

os, hi-fi tuners/amps, speakers, ham gear, tubes, parts, literature. 650-279-9931 OLD CIGARETTE LIGHTERS OR LIGHTER COLLECTION Can pay up to $50. 650-796-1687 KITCHENAID BEATER - 10â&#x20AC;?11â&#x20AC;? glass turntable for microwave, old Architectural Digests. 650941-3589 FREE WEIGHTS & WEIGHT BENCH - Sought by local high school student for low cost or just to take off your hands. (650)2108232

207 Estate Sales HALF MOON BAY ESTATE SALE 208 Garcia Ave x Kelly 12-4pm. Fri/Sat/Sun 3/5, 3/6 &3/7 Emmy Award composer/ musician. Antique to contemp furn, records, object d'art, water feature, paintings, Kawai baby grand piano, books

260 Pets, Horses & Supplies 101 Health & Fitness FOOT ENVY - Grand Opening! 4500 El Camino Real, (x San Antonio Rd). www.footenvy.net. Body Massage only $45/hr! Foot Massage $25/hr! Walk-ins welcome. 650-948-1888

150 Freebies FULL SIZE MATTRESS - Free. Good condition, box spring also avail. You pick up. 650-968-4211 FIREWOOD & MULCH - FREE mulch, 6 cubic yard minimum. Will deliver. 650-966-6537

200 Merchandise HO OV E R COM M E R IC I A L VACUUM CLEANER - heavy duty, upright. $50. (650) 9410876 GR A N DM Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PORTACR I B BABYTRENT - like new $30. Free Peg Perego Sherpa style stroller. 650-948-8294 DVD PLAYER/CHANGER DV-C6860, Yamaha, brand new, $100. Bob 650-969-2433 BRASS HEADBOARD - With porcelain flowered finials, 50â&#x20AC;? w x 29â&#x20AC;? h, $50. Rollaway bed, like new, 39â&#x20AC;?x74â&#x20AC;?, $125. Mitre Saw, German â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hempeâ&#x20AC;? manufacturer, $150. (650) 961-5920 6â&#x20AC;&#x2122; FREEZER - Upright, $75. (650)941-3589

452. 9/52 4!#+ ).4/ #!3( BRING IN USED SADDLES TACK EQUIPMENT FOR CONSIGNMENT

(ALF -OON "AY &EED &UEL

335 Classes & Instruction PIANO TEACHER - Masters Degree in music edu. 20 yrs exp. Passionate. pianosense@yahoo. com (650) 964-5028.

700 Houses for Rent FIRST TIME EVER!

Super clean home in the Los Altos Country Club area. Lovely 4BR/3.5BA, xtra storage & prkg, gated prop., refinished hdwd flrs, recently updtd mstr BR & BA, xtra lg rms, sep. ofc, updtd lndry rm w/new W/D. Price incl. wkly grdnr & grbge serv. NO PETS! $5,200/mo. Helen, 650-722-1065

708 Commercial Rentals LOS ALTOS - Main Street penthouse suite, 171 sf, $400 mo. 650948-2385

740 Wanted to Rent

Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Presentation. Learn about the disease, how to detect it and what resources are available to help. Sponsored by Community Services Agency. 10 a.m. to noon March 18. Mountain View Library, 585 Franklin St. 903-6335. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Global Climate Change in the Decades Ahead: Fact vs. Fictionâ&#x20AC;? Stanford University Professor Robert Dunbar discusses the current state of climate change and what we can expect in the future. This scientific perspective is based on his research in the Antarctic, the global ocean and the Americas, as well as his participation in the 2009 UN Copenhagen Climate Conference. Co-sponsored by GreenTown Los Altos and the Los Altos Library. 7:30-9 p.m. April 21. Los Altos Library, 13 S. San Antonio Road, Los Altos. Free. 969-0712; www.greentownlosaltos.org.

COTTAGE, GARAGE APT Male, single, LA res. since birth. Parents residents since 1964. Attended Los Altos schools and B.A. frm OSU. Need quiet space EXHIBITS for IT work. Exc. refs. 650-949- Los Altos Art Docentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Annual 3353

Student Art Show. Students from the Los Altos School District show748 Vacation case their drawings, paintings and Rentals ceramics. Hands-on art offered in the adjoining Neutra House. 3-5 0!,- 302).'3 p.m. March 26; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 2!.#(/ -)2!'% s ,UXURY PVT RESIDENCE March 27 and 28. Hillview Coms "2 "! POOL W SPA PRIVATE YARD munity Center, 97 Hillview Ave. s -TN 3UNSET 6IEWS Los Altos. Free. 947-1194. . 3 0 $AY -INIMUM WWW LA CASA DEL SOL COM OR

Crossword Answers

"SINGING FOR THE NON-SINGER" 6-wk class. Mondays, begins 3/1 (not 3/29 or 4/5)

BARTON-HOLDING MUSIC STUDIO

415 Real Estate Wanted

From Page 37

consultant Laurel Standley of Clear Current LLC. Come with questions and participate in a questionâ&#x20AC;˘ email: elainec@latc.com and-answer session after her talk. Sponsored by GreenTown Los 500 Automotive Altos. 7:30-9 p.m. March 16. Hillview Community Center, Room 17, 1993 HONDA DEL SOL SI - 2dr. 1.6 ltr eng. Very clean body / int. Los Altos. Free. 969-0712; www. Luxury wheels. 650-961-3410 greentownlosaltos.org.

GUITAR LESSONS - local musician, all styles. beg / int.$55/ per lesson. 650-224-3550

650-965-0139

DATEBOOK

Sudoku Answers

â&#x20AC;&#x153;California Color.â&#x20AC;? Works by plein air painter Karen White. Viewpoints Gallery. Viewpoints Gallery. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. todaySaturday; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, through April 3. 315 State St., Los Altos. 941-5789; www.viewpointsgallery.com. Recent works by seven watercolor artists. Featured artists include Rajani Balaram, Rosemarie Gorman, Suej McCall, Miyoko Mizuno, Kathy Sharpe, Joyce Savre and Nancy Wulff. Gallery 9. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon to 4 p.m. Sundays, through April 4. 143 Main St., Los Altos. www.gallery9losaltos.com.

7!.4%$ 4/ "59 &IXER 5PPER ,OS !LTOS -TN 6IEW OR 0ALO !LTO 4HE MORE WORK NEEDED THE BETTER #ASH "UYER

Museum Night at the Los Altos History Museum. Hours extended to 7 p.m. third Thursday of the month. See the latest exhibit, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Through Thick and Thin: A Tale

of Two Sistersâ&#x20AC;? and go on docentled tours of the Smith House (built in 1905). Free. www.losaltoshistory.org. Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Preview Night. 6:30-8 p.m. March 25. Parents of third and fourth graders are invited to the Los Altos History Museum to preview the tours for Los Altos public and private school students. Docents will discuss the exhibits, the 1905 Smith House and the paintings of Annie Knapp Fitz. Free. www.losaltoshistory.org.

REUNIONS Los Altos High School, class of 1980. Thirty-year reunion. Sept. 18. www.lahs1980.myevent.com. Los Altos High School, class of 1990. Twenty-year reunion. July 23 and 24. http://lahsclassof1990. eventbrite.com/.

CLASSES Cow Wow! Help milk Cleo, Hidden Villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dairy cow, and learn fun cow facts, proper milking techniques and how to make butter. 3-5 p.m. Saturday; 8:30-10:30 a.m. March 27. 26870 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills. Ages 5 and up; children under 12 must be accompanied by paying adult. $20. 949-9704; www. hiddenvilla.org. Cheese Please Pizza Lunch. Learn to make mozzarella cheese, search Hidden Villaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s organic garden for edible flowers and greens, then create a pita pizza and freshly picked salad. 10 a.m. to noon. Saturday. 26870 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills. For ages 5 and up. $25. 949-9704; www.hiddenvilla.org. Preschoolers on the Farm series. Bury your hands in sheep wool, throw corn to the chickens and more. 3-4 p.m. Thursday, March 18 and 25. 26870 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills. Ages 1-5, plus parents/ caregivers. $30 child-adult. 9499704; www.hiddenvilla.org. Toddlers on the Farm Series. Bury your hands in sheep wool, throw corn to the chickens and more. 3-4 p.m. Friday, March 19 and 26. Ages 1-4, plus parents/ caregivers. $30 child-adult. 9499704; www.hiddenvilla.org.

Altos Hills. Series is for ages 3-5, plus parents/caregivers. $60. 9499704; www.hiddenvilla.org. Zumba. Latin dance-inspired aerobic exercise. 6-7 p.m. Thursdays, through March 25 in Los Altos. $8/ class; no drops-ins. 903-2636. Innate Mental Health and Releasing Our Own Resiliency. Open class. Center for Sustainable Change. 6:30-8 p.m. first Thursday of the month. 744 San Antonio Road, Suite 25, Palo Alto. $20-$45. RSVP: 424-0705; jayme@principlespsychology.org. Learn to Square Dance. Classes for adult singles and couples; partners not required. Led by the Bows & Beaus Square Dance Club. 7:30 p.m. Mondays. 390-9261; (408) 253-9387. PlyoBand Isometric Whole-Body Stretching. 6-6:45 p.m. every other Tuesday. Watson Chiropractic and Scoliosis Center, 2425 California St., Mountain View. Free. 9691032; www.plyoband.com. Literacy in the Classroom. Sevenweek program for adults that spans the generations in an effort to satisfy the volunteer and student. Volunteer training time is a required component of the program and takes place before and after weekly classroom meetings. Topics include research in cognition, first and second language, and family environment as they affect studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; literacy in English. Mountain View-Los Altos Adult Education. 333 Moffett Blvd., Mountain View. 940-6029. Jackiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Strong Step. Low-impact workout to upbeat music, incorporating aerobics, strength training, ab work and stretching. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Los Altos Recreation Department, Hillview Center, 97 Hillview Ave. 961-5411.

CLUBS/GROUPS Western Horticulture Society. Speaker: Sherri Osaka, owner of Sustainable Landscape Designs in San Jose. 7:30 p.m. today. Christ Episcopal Church, 1040 Border Road, Los Altos. $5 guests.

Prenatal Yoga. 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays, March 30-April 27. Run by Kaiser Permanente Mountain View. No drop-ins. $8-$12. 903-2636.

GreenTown Los Altos. Nonpartisan group of citizens helping the communities of Los Altos and Los Altos Hills become more sustainable. 949-1552.

How Does Your Garden Grow? Dig in the dirt with your child and learn about planting and caring for carrots, lettuces, and other edible plants at Hidden Villa. 3-4 p.m. Friday, March 19 and 26 and April 9, 16 and 23. 26870 Moody Road, Los

Friendship Force of San Francisco Bay Area. Organization promotes peace, friendship and understanding around the world through home-stays. Meets bimonthly in various Bay Area locations. 9613539; www.ffsfba.org.

March 3, 2010/ Los Altos Town Crier / Page 39

COMICS & PUZZLES PAGE Town Crier Crossword

Cuson is a Los Altos resident. For more information, visit www.kneehighcomics.com.

Taylor is a Los Altos resident. For more information, visit www.mattandmichael.com.

See answers to puzzles on Page 39 Page 40 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

section

On the Road also inside: Business & Real Estate

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

A trio of high-performers for different tastes: Ford Taurus, Audi S4 & Jaguar XFR The Ford Taurus SHO AWD, left, may be the biggest sedan on the road at more than 5 feet tall and nearly 17 feet long. The Audi S4, below, has speed-sensitive steering with good feedback through the steering-wheel rim. It has a relatively light chassis and sport tuning to deliver a smooth performance ride. PHOTOS COURTESY OF FORD AND AUDI

By Gary and Genie Anderson

ast month we drove three sedans – the Ford Taurus SHO AWD, the Audi S4 quattro MT6 and the Jaguar XFR – and each is the high-performance version of its manufacturer’s bread-and-butter sedan. These cars vary in price, performance and especially overall driving experience, but when we take into account the type of driver for whom each of the sedans is designed, we can appreciate what there is to like about each one. Once upon a time (way back in the 1990s), Ford manufactured a Taurus SHO (the knowledgeable owner pronounces each of the initials, which stand for “Super High Output”). Built into the midsized Ford sedan favored by the Hewlett-Packard fleet buyer, its high-powered specially built engine made it the ultimate sleeper, perhaps the first real four-door sports sedan built by an American company. But that was then, and the SHO went away, along with the Taurus that spawned it.

Auto Review Now resurrected in the Ford 500 that has been rebadged as the new Taurus, it’s back and it’s bad. And big. This must be the biggest standard sedan on the road, more than 5 feet tall and nearly 17 feet long. With 20-inch wheels and all dimensions supersized, this car doesn’t look out of proportion, and it doesn’t drive that way, either. But get inside and you’ll be impressed by the amount of room. Five American-size adults can fit easily in this car. Other things impressed us, too. First, we noted the extent and quality of the amenities, including heated seats with optional massaging cushions, an excellent sound system and the amazing Ford Sync system that can recognize three different cell phones and automatically connect to them while playing tunes on an iPod. This is impressive for a car that costs less than $45,000.

Second, Ford has seriously upped its game in build quality. The two-tone interior was sporty, as one might expect from a highperformance sedan, and it was also very neatly put together. Third, where else can you get this level of performance, courtesy of that tuner twin-turbo six under the hood, in a family-sized sedan, for this price? All you need to sacrifice is fuel economy, but if that bothers you, then just drop down a step and look at the standard Taurus. The driving adventure is allAmerican. The car feels heavy and solid on the road, but when you ask it to go, it feels like one of the old full-size muscle cars. It sounds like one, too – they’ve built an amplifying structure into the engine compartment to channel the engine sound into the interior in a mellow manner that completes the experience. But unlike the old muscle cars, this one actually turns and stops, making it a reasonable contender in the handling category. We’re not sure where to cat-

egorize the Audi S4. The Audi folks say it shouldn’t be compared with the benchmark BMW M3 sports sedan, but when the price and power are just a tick below that level, and it comes with a soul-satisfying six-speed manual transmission and a sport suspension, plus Audi’s patented fourwheel quattro drive system, we say, bring it on. If you don’t want manual transmission, Audi also offers the S4 with a slick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. The interior is certainly more understated than the Jaguar and the Taurus. It’s quite nicely done, as Audis always are, but that’s not

why we would pay the extra money for that red “S” on the trunk lid. The upgrades on this small sedan are all in the way it drives. The Audi S4 offers subtlety, style and excellent performance. We liked the speed-sensitive steering that was fingertip light in the driveway and solid at high speeds with good feedback through the steering-wheel rim. Likewise, the handling took advantage of the relatively light chassis and sport tuning to deliver a smooth performance ride on both tight and sweeping curves, enhanced by that all-the-time all-wheel drive. See SEDANS, Page 42

March 3, 2010 Los Altos Town Crier / Page 41

On the Road

The Jaguar XFR, which sells for approximately $80,000, features a supercharged 5-liter V-8 engine. COURTESY OF JAGUAR

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We don’t know what the new Audi RS4 (rumored to be its next M3 competitor) will be like when it comes out, but until it does, the S4 will do just fine. When we looked at the sticker price relative to the driving sat-

isfaction this car delivers, priced right between the BMW 3 Series and M3 and the Mercedes C350 and C63, we had a Goldilocks moment: This car is just right. If you feel like living large but also like your car to hustle through the corners on the back roads, you can start thinking outside the Teutonic triumvirate and look at British engineering again. With Jaguar now comfortably settled into the pocketbook of Tata, its new Indian owner, we can all breathe a sigh of relief and start thinking about the impressive models that have been introduced from Jaguar’s traditional English home in the recent past. Best of the Jaguar lineup is the XF, an elegant sedan that easily matches the Mercedes E-Class, Audi A6 and BMW 5-Series. And now, if you want extra power and are prepared to hand over a few extra dollars at the weekly fuelup, Jaguar has supercharged its 5-liter V-8 in the 2010 XFR to produce some serious speed. It also has the brakes and suspension to keep it under control. The only drawbacks we found

in this new executive hot rod are that the styling makes it look a little bulky in the rear – the spin is to call it “muscular” – and yet, even though the interior is as Jaguar-elegant as it ever was, rearseat legroom is still a bit too challenged to justify the $80,000 car as a client-mobile. On the road, you can feel that extra bulk, but rather than lumbering around the ring, this heavyweight feels solidly grounded. We only had the backroads between here and Scotts Valley on which to play, but our taste certainly echoes the track tests in the big magazines. This new high-powered cat is definitely a contender. Los Altos residents Gary and Genie Anderson are co-owners of Enthusiast Publications LLC, which edits several car club magazines and contributes articles and columns to automotive magazines and online services.

Comparison Ford Taurus

Audi S4

Jaguar XFR

$44,275

$51, 575

$80,000

Engine type

Ecoboost GTDI

Supercharged

Twin-turbo

3-liter V-6

5-liter V-8

3.5-liter V-6

6-speed auto

6-speed manual

6-speed auto

All-wheel drive

Rear-wheel drive

Horsepower

365

333

510

Torque (pound-feet)

350

325

461

Length (inches)

202.9

185.7

195.3

Height (inches)

60.7

56.2

57.5

Weight (pounds)

4,368

3,847

4,306

Mileage (mpg city/hwy)

17/25

18/27

15/21

Price as tested

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On the Road Nitrogen in tires? It’s a lot of hot air By Warren McCord

Master Tech

I bought new tires for my car last week, and the tire store wanted to charge me to put nitrogen in my tires instead of just regular air. I told them, “No, thanks,” and that I would just take the free air instead. But now, after talking to some of my friends, I’m having second thoughts. Should I have allowed them to put the nitrogen in my tires? A: No. You made a good decision to take the “free air.” This practice/concept of filling street car tires with nitrogen has been around for the last few years, and most likely the idea has its foundation in the racing industry, where nitrogen has been used to fill race tires and run air tools for decades. What is good for race cars must be good for street cars, right? Not so fast. There are reasons why nitrogen is used in the racing industry, and they do not transfer to everyday, street-driven vehicles. The nitrogen molecule is larger than the mixture of molecules in regular air. Race tires are purposely built for adhesion and not for longevity, so they must be as light as possible. Therefore, the race tire sidewall is not as thick and durable as on street tires. In short, race tires do not do a good job of holding inflation for long periods of time. They tend to

go flat within weeks. Thus, the larger nitrogen molecules help them stay inflated longer. Street tires are very durable and hold inflation quite well, so there is no real need for the larger molecules. Cheap street tires leak more air than good-quality street tires, however, so buy good-quality tires and don’t pay extra to fill them with special gas. Nitrogen gas is much dryer than regular air. Race tires go through large changes in temperature. They may start at 75 F at rest and optimally reach 250-350 F. No street-driven tires go through such a large change in temperature unless they are severely underinflated or being driven illegally. Street tires go through, at best, 50-degree temperature changes. So what’s the big deal? The more moisture inside a tire, the more it affects pressure changes and tire stability. Those driving race cars want stability. A 3 to 4 PSI (pounds per square inch) change in a street tire is not noticeable if driven within the law. A race car will notice a 1 to 2 PSI change in tire pressure. The racing industry also uses nitrogen to run air tools because of less moisture. They use cylinders of 100 percent nitrogen. What’s be-

ing put into street tires is not 100 percent nitrogen. Why all the talk on the Internet about the benefits of nitrogen? Well, under laboratory testing using nitrogen versus regular air, benefits to nitrogen probably can be measured. Strict testing in a laboratory, however, is no comparison to the real world. In the real world, street tires are filled with something less than 100 percent nitrogen. The tire/wheel assembly already has regular air in it. This combination of air already present in the tire and the less-than-100-percent nitrogen further dilutes the percentage of nitrogen in the tire/wheel assembly. This dilution is enough to negate any possible positive effects from using the nitrogen. Whether you choose to put regular air or nitrogen in your tires, it does not matter. Just do not pay to have nitrogen put in your tires. The only winner there is the facility selling the nitrogen.

hen launching Hammer Auto 17 years ago, Robert Hammer’s vision was to create a safe, friendly, transparent way to buy or lease vehicles where you would want to do all your personal vehicle purchases and leases, and also feel comfortable sending your parents or grandparents, knowing you weren’t sending them into a lion’s den. Having manifested that vision, Hammer Auto is considered to be, “The must trusted place to buy or lease ANY vehicle.” They don’t specialize in any one type or brand, which gives the consumer the flexibility to price multiple vehicles for comparison. They accept trade-ins and even vehicle donations, and will help you make an educated decision on what vehicle make the most sense, and the best way to pay for it. Whether you lease, pay in full, waive the rebate and take 0% financing, or take the rebate and finance through a credit union or bank, Hammer Auto can help you through the process and save you money and time. Visit or call Robert at his new Los Altos location for unbiased answers to all your vehicle questions. Robert Hammer Hammer Auto 4898 El Camino Real, Suite #205 • Los Altos 650.210.1800 • Fax 650.210.1805 • www.hammerauto.com

Warren McCord is an ASE-certified master technician and owner of Dean’s Automotive Inc., 2037 Old Middlefield Way, Mountain View. For more information, call 961-0302 or e-mail McCord at djmccord@att.net.

The Town Crier welcomes On the Road feedback and ideas for future articles. Contact Pete Borello at peteb@latc.com or 948-9000, ext. 315.

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On the Road Motorcyclists advised to ride single file By George Valverde

go to avoid a hazard on the road. For safety in groups, the best formation to use is the staggered formation. This keeps ranks close yet maintains an adequate space cushion. The leader rides in the left portion of the lane while the second rider stays one second behind in the right portion of the lane. A third rider rides in the left portion of the lane two seconds

Director, California Department of Motor Vehicles

I’m a motorcycle enthusiast and love to ride with a few of my close friends. Is it legal for us to ride side-by-side in one lane? A: When riding in groups, do not pair up. Riding next to each other gives a person no place to

Ask the DMV behind the first rider. The fourth rider keeps a two-second distance behind the second rider, and so on. You can see a diagram of the formation in the California Motorcycle handbook online at

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Q: What am I supposed to do Q: I’m thinking about buying a during a traffic-signal blacknew car and would like to know out? beforehand just how much A: If a traffic signal is not it will cost me to register the working, proceed as if the various models I’m considerintersection is controlled by a ing, so I can budget for the new stop sign in all directions. This purchase. Is there a way I can means that you must make a full calculate this online? stop and proceed when it is safe. A: Yes, the DMV Web site has Always observe your right-of-way a vehicle registration fee calcularules. For more information, visit tor that allows current and new www.dmv.ca.gov or consult page residents of California to calcu58 of the 2008 California Driver late an estimate of their vehicle Handbook at http://www.dmv. registration fees, determine veca.gov/pubs/dl600.pdf. hicle license fees for tax purposes and calculate fees for registration Q: A friend of mine got a DUI renewal for new and used vehicle approximately six years ago. purchases. It He insists that is available at a recent law https://mv.dmv. makes that If a traffic signal DUI stay on his ca.gov/FeeCalculatorWeb/ record for 10 is not working, index.jsp. years. He said proceed as if the that he called Q: Are all DMV and someone intersection is offices able to told him that all controlled by a administer the DUIs become commercial retroactive. stop sign in all driving test, Could you directions. or do I have to clarify this for go to a specific me? one? A: Your friend A: Not all DMV offices are is correct – his DUI violation will equipped to handle the commerstay in his record for a total of cial behind-the-wheel driving 10 years. The most recent record test. For a list of those that are, reporting law was passed by the visit www.dmv.ca.gov/fo/ofLegislature and signed into law fices/toc_cdl.htm. Driving test effective Jan. 1, 2007; as such, appointments for noncommerthe DMV is mandated to enforce cial class C and motorcycles are it. For complete information on available online at www.dmv. the law, visit the DMV Web site ca.gov, but for all other driving at www.dmv.ca.gov. Look for test appointments, call (800) 777- “New DUI Reportability Re0133. quirements.” Q: The car I have to take the behind-the-wheel test in is pretty beat up, but it’s the car my parents gave me, and the one I’ll have to drive when I get my license. Are there certain requirements my car must fulfill for me to use it for my test? A: The vehicle you use for your driving test must be safe to drive. Before the test, the examiner checks for a number of things, including tires with no bald spots, a windshield that allows a full unobstructed field of vision and driver and front passenger doors that open from both the inside and outside. For a complete checklist and other advice on passing the behind-the-wheel test, visit www.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger appointed George Valverde California Department of Motor Vehicles director in March 2006. Valverde has been in public service for more than 30 years, focusing on operations and budget issues. Prior to his DMV appointment, he served as Undersecretary of the State and Consumer Services Agency (2004-2005) and Deputy Secretary for Fiscal Operations (1995-2003).

Business & Real Estate What’s not to like in a lick? Los Altos Creamery scoops out the sweets By Mary Beth Hislop Town Crier Staff Writer

hopping just got a little sweeter at Rancho Shopping Center with the soft opening Feb. 15 of this town’s coolest place to be. The hardcore grand opening for Los Altos Creamery is scheduled this weekend as Kathy and Elliott Dahan prepare to celebrate in style – a la mode. Last home to Lappert’s Ice Cream, the little shop tucked in between Starbucks and Just For You Florist has undergone a cheerful transformation since the Dahans took over Dec. 1. “We thought this might be a great business,” Kathy said. “Elliott’s had a lot of fun with drills and hammers.” Before opening mid-February, Kathy was out and about sampling sweet treats and contacting food vendors while Elliott painted the walls light blue, created a children’s play area, set up 1950s-style retro soda-shop chairs and tables and hung a flat-screen TV on the wall as slews of curious young visitors continually peeked inside. “The kids kept coming to the door and you could see their sad faces in the window,” Kathy said. But the doors are open now. “Now, the kids are very happy,

Transactions Los Altos

Overall

1375 Holly Avenue, D. & M. White to K. Potter for $1,575,000 36 Lyell Street, R. Youmans to Norabel Limited for $975,000 1220 Magdalena Court, Matagrano Trust to C. Ganapathi for $1,730,000

Los Altos

Loyola School student Ryan Sturges, 11, second from right, receives a sample of ice cream at Los Altos Creamery. After school, she walked to the shop with her friends, from left, Casey Adams, Samantha Mozer and Natalie Brown. especially Friday afternoons,” she said. Starting approximately 2:30 p.m., young people of all ages, exhausted by a grueling day at school, descend on the shop to relieve their pent-up tensions – scooped from a bowl or licked off a cone. Featuring colorful creams in the form of 16 flavors from Santa Cruz-based Marianne’s Ice Cream, Strauss organic frozen yogurts and classic gelatos, as well as nut and candy toppings, Los Altos Creamery’s side shelves are filled with colorful candies – lollipops, gumballs, candy necklaces,

Total sales: 3 Highest sale: $1,730,000 Lowest sale: $975,000 Average sale: $1,426,667

Los Altos Hills

28120 Story Hill Lane, Krass Trust to J. Cai for $3,001,000

Total sales: 1 Highest sale: $3,001,000 Lowest sale: $3,001,000 Average sale: $3,001,000

Mountain View

118 Flynn Avenue #C, W. & H. Griffin to M. Cohen for $337,000 483 Franklin Street, D. Keefe to

Total sales: 3 Highest sale: $968,000 Lowest sale: $337,000 Average sale: $726,667

Los Altos Hills

PHOTOS BY ELLIOTT BURR/TOWN CRIER

P. MacKenzie for $875,000 1594 Nilda Avenue, Winters Trust to J. Tung for $968,000

Swe d ish Fish, Wax Fa ngs and Razzles. “I’m just trying to think of things the kids will love,” Kathy said. Stuffed animals, backpacks and other small gifts stock another area of the shop – and there’s stuff to do. Young children can chalk their names into eternity on a large chalkboard – at least until another child with an eraser comes along – older children can revisit the days of the dinosaur in See ICE CREAM, Page 53

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Business & Real Estate New savings and loan banks on Los Altos location Town Crier Staff Report

The bank is opening new locations this year in Los Altos and Beverly Hills. Biggs said Luther Burbank, named for the legendary botanist from Sonoma County, has been profitable since its fourth month in operation. “We’re based entirely on real estate loans,” Biggs said, but loan decisions are prudent and, well, conservative. “We never got into the subprime lending (business),” he said, which proved a debacle for many banks. “Economic conditions were very challenging in 2009,” Biggs and bank founder Victor Trione posted in their statement of condition in December 2009. “Although there are indications the economy is improving, recovery is likely to be gradual, with growth slowly increasing over time. In the current market, superior-performing banks must demonstrate the following characteristics: consistent earnings, strong capital and stable asset quality.” The numbers reflect well on Luther Burbank, which is likely why it is one of the few banks that advertise a balance sheet. “Probably the only one,” Biggs said. Existing regulations define well-capitalized banks as those with a minimum ratio of 5 percent core capital and 10 percent

Business

uther Burbank Savings & Loan, headed for Los Altos this summer, carries an unusually strong history, given today’s troubled banking climate. While its peers are going under or struggling to tread water, Luther Burbank, with $3.5 billion in assets, keeps posting profits. In fact, the bank reported record net income in 2008, one the worst years for banks. Last year, the bank posted its second most profitable year, despite a reeling economy. CEO John Biggs attributed the bank’s success to conservative lending and efficient operations. Likewise, bankers target a “mature market,” he said, a market of savers, such as Los Altos residents. “We did a lot of research on demographics (in the South Bay) on where to open our branches,” Biggs said. “Los Altos is the perfect demographic profile for us – it’s a very vibrant community.” Bank officials are targeting an August opening. Luther Burbank will occupy the space vacated by Heritage Bank at Village Court on San Antonio Road and El Camino Real. Luther Burbank, founded in 1983 in Santa Rosa, currently has six branches, including one that will close in Palo Alto.

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risk-based capital. As of Dec. 31, Luther Burbank Savings’ core capital ratio is 9.35 percent and the risk-based capital ratio is 13.63 percent. The bank’s nonperforming assets ratio is 2.43 percent, less than half the average of all FDIC-insured institutions at 4.94 percent (as of last Sept. 30). As for savings growth, branch deposits increased $358 million in 2009 to $2.5 billion. The Pasadena branch, opened last year, has deposits COURTESY OF LUTHER BURBANK SAVINGS already exceeding $148 million. Its branch in Encino has CEO John Biggs said Luther Burbank Savings & $400 million in deposits after Loan has been profitable, virtually since its founding two and a half years in busi- in 1983. ness. quite some time,” said Biggs, who has been Other factors play into the bank’s success. with Luther Burbank for more than 25 years. “If you look at our overhead expenses, we’re Luther Burbank, which started with six emvery efficient,” Biggs said. “When we open a ployees, hasn’t changed its basic philosophy. new site, I visit it, I negotiate the lease and I de“Our goal from the beginning has been sign it,” rather than hiring others to do it. to offer competitive savings and loan proCustomer service also plays a big role, grams to the local community and provide with employees greeting people by name, excellent customer service by hiring excepoffering good rates and refraining from tional employees,” Biggs and Trione said in service charges. Those employed are well a statement. trained and usually veterans in the business. For more information, visit www.luther“The people who work here have been here burbanksavings.com.

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STATEMENT OF CONDITION December 31, 2009

Assets

To Our Valued Customers: Economic conditions were very challenging in 2009. Although there are indications the economy is improving, recovery is likely to be gradual, with growth slowly increasing over time. In the current market, superior performing banks must demonstrate the following characteristics: consistent earnings, strong capital and stable asset quality. In 2008, Luther Burbank Savings reported record net income, a 31% increase from the prior year. 2009 was our second most profitable year ever, and in 2010 we expect net income to increase approximately 15% from the 2009 level. Luther Burbank Savings was profitable in our fourth month of operations and we have consistently posted positive earnings for over 25 years.

Cash & Securities

Loans Receivable

3,422,936,000

Other Assets

89,356,000

Foreclosed Real Estate

3,714,000

The current regulatory environment has criticized the capital levels of banks. Existing regulations define well-capitalized banks as those with a minimum ratio of 5% core capital and 10% risk based capital. As of December 31, 2009, Luther Burbank Savingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; core capital ratio is 9.35% and our risk based capital ratio is 13.63%, significantly above the well-capitalized standards. As of December 31, 2009, we have $3.7 million in foreclosed real estate of which $3.0 million is sold and will close escrow within 90 days. Our non-performing assets ratio is 2.43%, less than half the average of all FDIC insured institutions of 4.94% (as of September 30, 2009). One of our most rewarding results is savings growth. In 2009, retail branch deposits increased $358 million, or 17%, to $2.5 billion. Our new Pasadena branch which opened in May 2009 has deposits exceeding $148 million, and in 2010 we will open new branches in Beverly Hills and Los Altos. Luther Burbank Savings first opened for business on October 11, 1983 with one branch in Santa Rosa, six employees and a conservative business plan. Our goal from the beginning has been to offer competitive savings and loan programs to the local community and provide excellent customer service by hiring exceptional employees. We continue to focus on this goal in all of the markets we serve.

$ 3,538,856,000

Liabilities & Capital Deposits

$ 2,453,096,000

Borrowings

722,683,000

Other liabilities

29,216,000

Capital

333,861,000 $ 3,538,856,000

Thank you for your business. It is genuinely appreciated.

Victor Trione Chairman of the Board

Encino: (888) 849-3601 16600 Ventura Boulevard Encino, CA 91436

22,850,000

John Biggs President & Chief Executive Officer

This unaudited statement is prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

Palo Alto: (650) 688-7410

Pasadena: (877) 373-0380

San Rafael: (415) 457-6990

Santa Rosa: (800) 578-9216

Toluca Lake: (877) 333-2580

2335 El Camino Real Palo Alto, CA 94306

170 South Lake Avenue Pasadena, CA 91101

1050 Fourth Street San Rafael, CA 94901

804 Fourth Street Santa Rosa, CA 95404

4100 West Alameda Avenue Burbank, CA 91505

www.lutherburbanksavings.com March 3, 2010 Los Altos Town Crier / Page 49

CO LDWE LL

californiamoves.com

ING

HALF MOON BAY ay un0d0 S en : Op1:00-4

SAL

9 Turnberry Court

B AN KE R

$1,599,000

5BR/3.5BA Closer than you think. Come home to paradise on the Coast. This Ocean Colony home has over 4700 sq. ft. of luxury living. This residence is located on a cul-de-sac & has expansive views of the 11th & 15th fairways. This home is not just a home but a lifestyle.

Elizabeth Thompson 650.949.8508 elizabeth.thompson@ cbnorcal.com

D PEN

JUS

4BR/2BA Newly Rebuilt in 2008

Beautiful Upgrdd Ranch Hm

$1,395,000 LOS ALTOS

LOS ALTOS

5BR/3.5BA Fabulous Family Home

$1,800,000 SARATOGA

5BR/4BA Spacious Home

4BR/3BA

$2,498,000 LOS ALTOS HILLS

$2,599,000

Gorgeous home w/bright, designer int. Lg kit w/granite This home in the Highlands offers the best of Los Altos 4,168 sf interior spread over more than 1/2 an acre in a In a beautifully natural & priv. setting on one of the nicest counters, new SS appl, and brkfst nook. Fml DR & lg FR w/ including top schools, shopping, dining, and Rancho San An- cul de sac adjacent to Calabazas Creek. Lush landscaping & streets in Los Altos Hills. Expansive Master Suite. Sunny, 650.941.7040 entertainment spaces w/patios, lawn. fplc. Spacious MBR w/rmdl bath. 650.948.0456 tonio park. 650.941.7040 650.941.7040 sparkling pool w/spa & waterfall.

505 Cypress Point Drive #207

650.948.0456 fran.papapietro@cbnorcal.com

TED

IS TL

JUS

12009 Finn Lane

$3,775,000

5BR/4BA Elegant family home ideally located on quiet cul de sac. Traditionally appointed w/hrdwd ﬂrs, plantation shutters, crown moldings, marble foyer hm features 5 bdrms & 5 full bathrooms. Cherry wood Library. Kitchen has granite counter tops, Sub Zeros and Wolf range.

Susan Furstman 650.917.4214 susan.furstman@cbnorcal.com

Stunning Custom Estate Hm

CUPERTINO

4BR/4.5BA Get Swept Away!

$2,788,000 LOS ALTOS HILLS

LOS GATOS

LOS ALTOS HISTORIC HOME

4BR/3.5BA Enjoys Mills Act beneﬁts. Classic Farnsworth hm in the heart of Los Altos, built in 1895 & beautifully restored & updtd. 650.941.7040

$1,599,000

3BR/1.5BA Idyllic private location w/gorgeous views!20,000 sq ft lot, charming Hm. Hrdwd ﬂrs, frplc, nice grounds. Wonderful opportunity to build your dream house. 650.941.7040

$2,395,000

4BR/4.5BA Large beautiful home w/amazing views. An upper-level master suite is a lavish retreat with a separate sitting area, pass-through ﬁreplace, huge spa bath w/ Jacuzzi tub & walk-in closet,& private balcony with views. Tons of storage include many closets & a three-car garage with wine closet.

Vicki Geers 650.917.7983 vicki.geers@cbnorcal.com

EXTRAORDINARY OPPORTUNITY

$1,498,000

3BR/2BA Build your dream home or ﬁx/remodel this 3-bedroom, 2-bath country ranch on large view-lot near downtown. Quiet and private with bay-mountain vistas. 650.325.6161

DOWNTOWN LOS ALTOS GEM

$1,479,000

3BR/2.5BA Le Coeur De La Ville 2-level town hm. Formal entry. Gourmet kit. LR w/ stone FP. Private patio. High ceilings. Hrdwd ﬂrs. Secure 2-car undrgrd prkng. 650.941.7040

MOUNTAIN VIEW G DIN

IDEAL LOS ALTOS STARTER!

$1,299,950

3BR/2.5BA Approx. 2,187 sf renovated and expanded throughout. Excellent schools: Loyola Elem., Blach Middle, Mtn.View High! Don’t miss this one! 650.941.7040

PEN

GREAT OPPORTUNITY!

$849,000

2 BR 2 BA Newer condo for 55+ years. Grnt kit, lrg mstr, travertine baths, inside lndry. Secure w/ congenial activities, elevators, pool, spa, exercise rm, & daily brkfst. 650.941.7040

LOS ALTOS HILLS 303 Windmill Park Lane

$872,000

3BR/2.5BA In a word...Stunning! Bright & airy. New: carpet, paint, tile ﬂooring, lighting. Frplcs in LR & FR. Separate DR & informal DR.FR adjacent to kitchen, inside laundry rm, tons of storage & nice sized bckyrd! Mstr bath w/high ceilings, walk in closet, another, bathe w/sep. shower & soaking tub.

Shelly Potvin 650.941.7040 spotvin@cbnorcal.com

ELEGANT CONTEMPORARY

$3,399,000

6BR/4.5BA Nestled on a private road in the hills, this custom hm has sweeping views of the Valley & rolling hills below. 650.941.7040

DEVELOPER’S FIRST PICK!

$2,750,000

Last lakeside lot in prestige Quarry Hills. Approx. 1.1 acre with a low slope, nearly level lot. Private lake & subdivision. MFA: 6,334. MDA: 15,408. 650.941.7040

MOUNTAIN VIEW D STE

NATURE LOVER’S DREAM!

$2,695,000

5BR/4BA Rare! Over 5,000 newly remodeled at end of a cul de sac on over 1 acre! Palo Alto schls. 650.941.7040

SPACIOUS LOS ALTOS HILLS

$2,650,000

5BR/4.5BA This beautifully remodeled Los Altos Hills home has much to offer with separate 1BR/1BA apartment, stable, aviary & Palo Alto schools. 650.941.7040

EXCITING & UPDATED HOME

219 Horizon Avenue

$649,000

3BR/2BA Walk to Downtown Mt View! Kitchen remodeled with cherry cabinets. Vaulted ceilings in living room and master bedroom. Inside laundry. Near cal train, light rail and Stevens creek trail. Lots of extra storage. Complex has pool, spa, tennis courts.

800.558.4443 Page 50 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

$3,980,000 LOS ALTOS

$3,250,000 PALO ALTO

CORRALITOS $3,649,000

WHAT A FIND!

460 Santa Rosa Drive

6BR/5.5BA Stunning New Home-15K Lot

7BR/6.5BA Palo Alto

5BR/5.5BA

$3,988,000

Oak Valley’s ﬁnest! English style hm features beautiful archi- This elegant home will impress even the most discriminat- Exquisite 2 story 8 years new custom built home in pres- French country home presents classic elegance & modern tectural detail. Grand sized rooms w/walls of glass-Gour- ing tastes. Exquisite touches throughout. Spacious master tigious Crescent Park 4300 sq ft living area lot size 12,400 functionality, w/energy efﬁcient features that allow for an 650.941.7040 650.941.7040 environmentally friendly lifestyle. met Kit.20,000+SF lot with views. 650.941.7040 suite w/ sitting room. 650.941.7040 sq ft.6 bdrm 5.5 ba.

ay un3d0 S en : Op1:30-4

L UST

Fran Papapietro

SAN JOSE

S UST

$309,000

1BR/1BA Updated and gorgeous top level condo. Updated kitchen with granite counter, stainless sink, newer appliances, wood laminate ﬂoors. Updated master bath with granite and designer sink.Wood burning ﬁreplace. New carpet and paint.

LOS ALTOS HILLS OLD

SAL

MOUNTAIN VIEW TED

Marcie Soderquist 650.917.4340 marcie.soderquist@cbnorcal.com

$2,350,000

4BR/4BA With tree top views! Ideal for entertaining & California living! In a natural wooded 2 acres. Features soaring ceilings crowned by 22 skylights. 650.941.7040

LOS ALTOS HILLS GEM

$2,049,000

NESTLED IN PLEASANT VLLY

MOUNTAIN VIEW $1,195,000

Region of Aptos this 16 acre parcel presents the perfect location to build the estate of your dreams. Ideal for either a vineyard or equestrian estate. 650.941.7040

$575,000

2BR/2BA Condo on the 2nd ﬂr overlooks the courtyard. New wood ﬂrs grace the living/dining area & the foyer, kitchen & baths have been updated w/marble tile. 650.941.7040

WOODSPRING CONDO

$568,000

2BR/2BA Located near the Los Altos/Cupertino border, this condo is conveniently located close to shops and restaurants. 650.941.7040

LUXURY 1ST LEVEL END-UNIT

$548,888

2BR/2BA Condo in the heart of Cupertino. The largest condo unit at the Travigne Villas, 2 BD, full baths. Liv rm/dining rm combo is elegant w/high ceilings. 650.941.7040

BEAUTIFUL STRAWBERRY SQR

$480,000

4BR/2.5BA Roomy, conventional ﬂoorplan with LR,DR & kitchen on 1st ﬂoor, bedrooms upstairs. 650.941.7040

DOWNSTAIR 1 LEVEL CONDO

$289,000

1BR/1BA W/priv. yrd & deck. Rm for BBQ & gardening.Top Cprtno schls-Lynbrook Hi/Miller/Blue Hills. New paint. Spacious LR & dining area. Inside lndry. 650.941.7040

COMMERCIAL OFFICE CONDO

$225,000

Desirable Monte Vista location. Unit includes 2 ofﬁces, reception area and restroom. Ofﬁce furniture and phone system included. 650.941.7040

HEALDSBURG $1,995,000

5BR/4BA Minutes from Healdsburg’s Trendy Town Plaza & World Famous Wineries your new lifestyle awaits! 650.941.7040

ATOP THE HILLS

WONDERFUL INVSTMNT PROP.

$899,000

Located in desirable Monta Loma neighborhood of Mtn View. Hrdwd ﬂrs, random plank red oak thruout. New dual-pane wndws, plantation shutters, paneled doors. 650.941.7040

VERY SPACIOUS TOWNHOME

$745,000

2BR/2.5BA Sun drenched End Unit that has LG LR w/FP, a sep. DR & eat-in kit. LG bck yrd & expansive decks. Elegant mstr ste w/vaulted ceiling & bonus loft/ofﬁce. 650.948.0456

DRAMATIC TOWN HOME

$659,900

3BR/2.5BA Living/dining combo w/vled ceiling, FP & French doors that open to priv. back yrd w/hot tub. Updtd Kit granite cntrs. Inside laundry. Attchd 2 car garage. 650.948.0456

END-UNIT TOWN HOME

2BR/2.5BA Spacious town home w/lrg living rm & arch door to separate dining rm. Open kitchen, generous bdrms. Lrg backyard. Inside laundry. Natural lighting thru out. 650.948.0456

SINGLE LEVEL CONDO

$408,000

2BR/2BA Lrg LR w/gas frplc w/sliding door to balcony. Frml din area. Good sized kit w/tile cntr tops & eat in area. 2 lrg bdrms separated by common living area. 650.948.0456

$399,000

2BR/1BA Overlooking lawn area. Completely updated, kitchen cabinets w/granite counters, stainless steel appliances. Updated bathroom w/granite counter. 650.941.7040

IMMACULATE! MOVE IN READY

LOS GATOS $550,000

3BR/2.5BA W/2 car garage. This hm offers a well lighted living space, lrg kit w/newer appliances. It has a front yrd & a bckyrd. Plantation style shutters. 650.941.7040

650.948.0456

Los Altos San Antonio

SAN JOSE

Freestanding corner restaurant building w/great wndw line. Flr approx. 1,000 plus 200 sq.ft patio for outside sitting. Parking & yrd in the rear. 650.948.0456

BEAUTIFUL SPLIT LVL HOME

$789,000

4BR/3BA Nestled at end of cul-de-sac near Los Gatos border. Features include dual pane wndws, copper pipes, updtd tile baths, grnte cntr & stnlss stl in kit. 650.941.7040

CHARMING REMODELEDCOTTAGE

$598,000

5142 Bela Drive

2300 SQUARE FEET

Francis Rolland 650.948.0456 frolland@aol.com

SAN MATEO

$479,000

3BR/1.5BA You will not ﬁnd this square footage for this price! 2 bdrms + a bonus rm dwnstrs & an 860 sf bdrm w/ walk in closet up stairs. 650.941.7040

$849,000

5BR/2.5BA Rare Happy Valley home! www.5142Bela.com - Super clean home! Country Lane Elem.(918 API). Hardwood ﬂoors throughout, modern kitchen w/granite counters, 2 skylights, whole-house fan, track lighting, impeccable ﬁnished garage w/over-head storage. Extra large lot w/RV.

3BR/2BA Gorgeous 3/2. Oak ﬂoors. Granite, stone & oak kitchen. D/pane windows, newer furnace & roof. Pvt, l/scaped yard. Garage, carport, easy fwy access. 650.948.0456

TED

IS TL

JUS

SANTA CLARA

$329,000

BEAUTIFUL TOWNHOME

$433,985

3BR/1.5BA Overlooking park-like area with swimming pool and mature trees. New carpet & paint. Spacious Master Bdrm w/ mirror closet doors and private deck. 650.948.0456

SANTA CRUZ EXPANSIVE AND DRAMATIC

$1,095,000

Located on secluded cul-de-sac convenient to groceries, neighborhood parks, library, coffee, restaurants, and top Palo Alto Schools. 650.941.7040

$778,000

2BR/2.5BA This inviting townhouse is centrally located. A bright & open living rm has vaulted ceilings, gas frplc & oversized wndws. The mstr ste has high ceilings. 650.941.7040

506 Waren Road

$12,995,000

EN OP $629,000

4BR/3BA Must see! Ideal w/Mother in law quarters. 4 bedrooms/3 baths, 2 kitchens, 2 living rooms. Enclosed patio area. 2 car attached garage. 650.941.7040

BEAUTIFUL END UNIT TWNHM

$619,000

2BR/2.5BA Very spacious, light & bright end unit townhome.2 large mstr suites w/vaulted ceilings & walk in closets. Manicured patio, gas frplc, Cupertino schools. 650.941.7040

$2,695,000

5BR/4BA Magniﬁcent quality home on a beautiful winding road in the heart of San Mateo Park, this romantic residence blends Tuscany’s warmth and Santa Fe’s artistry.Highest quality custom construction w/beautiful details thru out.

4BR/4 full BA + 3 half This Montana Timber framed Estate & Equestrian facility is nestled on 80 spectacular acres in the Pleasant Vlly. 650.941.7040

MUST SEE! GREAT POTENTIAL

650.941.7040

SAL

D PEN

SAN JOSE

PALO ALTO

DESIRABLE ROSEWALK HOME

ING

$759,000

SUNNYVALE PRIME VACANT LOT

650.941.7040 dwillson@cbnorcal.com

$499,000

$1,899,900

4BR/2.5BA Beautifully remodeled two level home & vineyard in Alta Vista with expansive views. Formal dining room. Multiple decks. Cul-de-sac moments to town. 650.941.7040

ELEGANT END UNIT TWN HM

$910,000

4BR/2.5BA Contemporary home w/high ceilings. Updtd w/ slate & bamboo ﬂrs; fam rm kit, inside lndry, 2 car attchd gar & off-street guest parking. LA high school. 650.941.7040

2 BR 2 BA Unit w/private patio overlooking expansive park. Bright kit w/granite, new appliances, light cabinets. Complex w/pool, sauna exercise rm & greenbelt. 650.948.0456

LOS GATOS

4BR/3.5BA Secluded sanctuary w/ custom gourmet kit w/ unique granite island, main level master suite, huge lower level family/ game room & tree top views on 1.8 acres! 650.325.6161

Los Altos First Street

ELEGANT, LIGHT FILLED

RESTAURANT BUILDING

Dana Willson

$1,080,000

4BR/3BA List price reﬂects Hm being built by owner/builder as approved by the city. Permits in place. Plans for a Gorgs Mediterranean-style hm w/grt rm concept. 650.941.7040

FIRST FLOOR END UNIT YOUR NEW LIFESTYLE AWAITS

$1,399,000

$699,000

4BR/2BA Beyond compare. Charm & tranquility describe this home near Santana Row. The open “Great Room” incorporates LR/DR & kitchen w/granite counters & breakfast bar. Features include plantation shutters, recessed lighting, AC, skylight/sun tunnels and crown molding.

SAN CARLOS

4BR/2.5BA Home in the desirable Los Altos school system.4 bdrms (including 2 mstr bdrm suites),3 barms, great rm w/ chef’s kit., & modern wiring w/POE system. 650.941.7040

LOT CLR & READY TO BUILD

CUPERTINO WONDERFUL UPDATED 1 LEVEL

COMPLETELY REMODELED

1049 Thornton Way

Yasemin Richardson 650.948.0456 yasmin.richardson@cbnorcal.com

SUNNYVALE Y A 1065 Saginaw ND Terrace #201 $498,000 2BR/2BA Amazing 1 year single level condo. 2 yr old complex, perfectly located in the heart of Silicon Valley.1 level condo w/loads of upgrade. Granite kitchen counters w/ back splash & 5 burner gas stove. Upgraded bathrooms. Hardwood ﬂoors & Berber carpet in the bedrooms. Bright & open living room w/balcony.

Nargis Sadruddin 650.917.7971 nsadruddin@cbnorcal.com

©2009 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker(r) is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Ofﬁce Is Owned And Operated by NRT LLC. DRE License # 00313415

March 3, 2010 / Los Altos Town Crier / Page 51

Business & Real Estate Franchise Tax Board offers advice, assistance for taxpayers Town Crier Report

Following is the second and final article in the Franchise Tax Board’s updated guidelines for this year’s state tax filings. Taxpayer assistance • Customer service availability. Due to limited resources, reaching an FTB customer service representative may be more difficult this filing season. If you need assistance, the best times to call are Tuesdays through Fridays, before or after lunch. Tax

board officials suggest you contact them early in the tax-filing season. To speak with a representative – lines are staffed 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, excluding state holidays – call (800) 8525711. For 24-hour automated phone service, call (800) 338-0505. Taxpayers can visit one of the FTB’s six regional field offices that provide walk-in service 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays in San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Santa Ana or San Diego. For direc-

TO PLACE YOUR REAL ESTATE AD...

Ellie Zias

Call Janice Fabella Real Estate Advertising

Associate Broker SRES Specialist

650.948.9000 Ext. 302

E xperience,I ntegrity and U nsurpassed Service For all your real estate needs, Call Me: (650) 947-2275 ezias@cbnorcal.com

tions, visit www.ftb.ca.gov and click the “Contact Us” tab. • ReadyReturn. Some taxpayers qualify for the FTB’s online program that completes the tax return for the taxpayer based on information already collected from employers, such as W2s. More than 2 million taxpayers will qualify who last year earned wages from a single employer, filed either as single or head of household, took the standard deduction, claimed no more than five dependents, and rented and can be claimed as a dependent. • Volunteer Income Tax Assistance. Starting Feb. 1, more than 1,000 centers statewide opened through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs. These sites offer free help with tax form preparation. Some offer services in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean. For more information, visit www.ftb.ca.gov and navigate to the “Free Filing Assistance” link. Self-service applications The FTB encourages taxpayers and practitioners to explore its many self-service applications. There are several Web-based applications that provide useful information and services during the filing season.

• CalFile. More than 6.5 million taxpayers are qualified to use CalFile, an online filing program. Taxpayers type in tax return information and transmit their returns directly to the FTB. CalFile accepts taxpayers with income of up to $321,483, itemized deductions and some tax credits. • My FTB Account. This online service allows taxpayers to access information, such as estimated tax payments, balances due, state W2 information or FTB-issued 1099 forms. Use this information to avoid claiming the wrong amount of estimated tax payments, which is the No. 1 error made on returns. • Pay taxes online. Taxpayers can authorize a payment from their bank accounts to pay their return balances due or extension payments. Payment must be made on or before April 15 to avoid penalties and interest. • Can’t pay your taxes in a timely manner? Monthly installment payment plans are available to people who cannot pay what they owe when it is due. Generally, taxpayers who owe less than $25,000 and can repay the tax within five years qualify for a payment plan. Visit www.ftb.ca.gov and select “Payment Options” and “Installment Agreement Request.”

Voice your opinion

Comment on any story you read in the paper at www.latc.com. Dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s ...so you don’t have to! � Solid background handling a wide range

of real estate transactions � Keen negotiating skills � Strong understanding of the local market � Broad network of professional associates and contacts

Call for a FREE Market Analysis

650.917.7983 • vicki@vickigeers.com • www.vickigeers.com

Page 52 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

Bill Weeks, Broker

South Los Altos Residenetial Specialist, Realty World-Newcastle Prioperties Office: 650.964.0179 Cell: 415.279.8115 billrweeks@yahoo.com Newcastle Properties www.billweekshomes.com

JUST SOLD!

1459 Holt Avenue, Los Altos Offered at $1,190,000 Ask about “My Private Listing Program” that gets results! Curious about your home value? Please call me now. “The right agent makes all the difference in the world.”

Business & Real Estate ICE CREAM From Page 45

electronic-games technology and play PacMan and moms can visit with each other discussing the seeming phenomenon that all children have the skilled propensity of eating mouthfuls of ice cream and making noise at the same time. So far, response from customers has been positive. “Everyone who comes in – even if they don’t buy anything – says how really great the place looks,” Kathy said. “That is really nice to hear.” So far, Marianne’s bubble gum, mint chocolate chip and cookie-dough ice creams are pretty cool with the kids. For those with more sophisticated palates, white chocolate raspberry, creme brulee, a tiramisu rendition and Bavarian mint gelatos are other options. And if the choices create confusion – “10 20” is a concoction of vanilla, caramel, Oreo cookies and fudge – there’s the all-time classic fallback, vanilla bean. There are other frozen sweet treats, uh, cooking on the back burner … in the future, Kathy will bake cookies onsite so that customers can create a customized ice cream sandwich cookie and offer European drinking chocolate, gourmet cupcakes and specialty-press pot coffees. The 40-year Mountain View resident has a whirlwind of ideas to accompany the changing seasons and will vary the menu to accommodate the dog days of summer or the raining cats and dogs days of winter.

ELLIOTT BURR/TOWN CRIER

Danny Holton, 12, nabs some mint chip from Los Altos Creamery co-owner Kathy Dahan. “I’m sure we’ll come up with a lot of ideas for the winter,” Kathy said. “That’s one of the big, fun parts of the job.” Los Altos Creamery is open daily from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., but the Dahans expect to extend the hours – probably until 10 p.m. – once warmer weather sets in. For the grand opening Friday, Saturday and Sunday, one of Kathy’s high-school helpers will dress as a Jersey cow or an ice cream cone – she’s not sure which – the Pacific Cookie lady will pass out free cookies and Kathy and Elliott will distribute free raffle tickets for gifts. In upcoming months, Kathy will visit schools, churches and sports leagues – “they have to know you’re here” – and envisions Los Altos Creamery as a community hub for families and fundraisers, maybe even birthday parties. “I think this is going to be a wonderful business,” she said. “Who doesn’t like ice cream?” Contact Mary Beth Hislop at marybethh@latc.com.

Just Listed! PHENOMENAL VIEWS

G TIN S I WL NE

27391 Altamont Road Los Altos Hills First time offered for sale! Build your dream home on this prime Los Altos Hills lot with views spanning from the bay to the verdant hills. The mostly level, approximately 1.39 acre lot offers a generous maximum development area (MDA) of 19,066 square feet and a maximum floor area (MFA) of 7,770 square feet at grade or above, plus a potential lower level below grade for media center, exercising room, etc. Conceptual sketches available for viewing. A serene and peaceful location with top rated Los Altos schools. Offered at $3,600,000 www.27391altamont.com

JUDY BOGARD-TANIGAMI & SHERI HUGHES (650) 209-1603 • (650) 209-1608 judybogard@aol.com ■ shughes@apr.com www.JudyandSheri.com

Open Sat. & Sun. 1:30-4:30

941 Berry Avenue, Los Altos Majestic, the residence stuns within a traditional Cape Cod exterior. Well designed flexible floor plan perfect for everyday living and elegant entertaining. Grand foyer, gourmet cook’s kitchen, great room, formal dining room, sunroom, family/entertainment room, all bedroom suites, 3 offices and more, all set within a serene oasis of lush landscaping, lawns, patios, trickling waterfalls and ponds.

Offered at $3,450,000

Meryle Sussman, JD. Broker Associate

Cell: 650-208-3841 www.merylesussman.com DRE# 01247038 March 3, 2010 Los Altos Town Crier / Page 53

Hill & Co., Realtors

317 Blue Oak Lane Los Altos

property management FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED FOR 50 45 YEARS

ay und:30 S n 4 Ope:30 1

OUR MANAGEMENT PORTFOLIO CONSISTS OF OVER 500 LOCAL RESIDENTIAL UNITS SPECIALIZING IN LUXURY HOMES AND EXECUTIVE PLACEMENT Benefits of Professional Management:

T N E

M E G A AN

Elaine Klemm 650.209.1514

This is it! Situated on a gorgeous 18,000 +/- sf lot on a choice cul-de-sac close to the village, this 4 bedroom plus an office, 3.5 bath home reflects the best in California indoor/outdoor living. Designer features include 3 fireplaces, French doors, marble and stone detailing, elegant millwork and hardwood floors. The tranquil rear garden with pool, lawn and blooming borders is enhanced by a lush backdrop of mature redwoods along a creek.

eklemm@apr.com

Price Upon Request apr.com | LOS ALTOS 167 So. San Antonio Rd. Ste. 1 650.941.1111

STUNNING ESTATE HOME WITH VIEWS

s Obtain maximum rental income s Extensive tenant screening s Computerized monthly & year-end statements s Coordinate maintenance & repairs s 24-hour answering service for emergencies s Online and print advertising s Digital documentation of property s Weekday & weekend showings

Y T ER

P O PR

Visit our website: hillandcorealtors.com Email: contactus@hillandcorealtors.com

408.736.5900 “We treat every property as if it were our own.” References Supplied Upon Request s Call For Management Fees

700 So. Bernardo Avenue, Suite 101, Sunnyvale, CA 94087

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21161 Canyon Oak Way, Cupertino Oak Valley’s finest, custom English-style home features: • Dramatic foyer with 19 foot ceilings • Gracious living room with fireplace & cathedral ceiling • Elegant formal dining room with French doors • Gourmet kitchen with granite & Cherry wood cabinets • Grand sized family room with walls of glass • Four bedrooms, four full baths and one half bath • Fabulous master suite with fireplace & luxurious bath • Custom office area, Butler’s pantry, 3 car garage • Two charming courtyards, ideal for entertaining • Beautiful park-like yard with views, 20,800 sq. ft. lot • Top rated Cupertino schools

Offered at $2,788,000

CINDY MATTISON 650.917.4305 cmattison@cbnorcal.com

KAREN SCHEEL 650.917.4257 kscheel@cbnorcal.com

653 Kingswood Way, Los Altos

Jim Nappo Broker, CRS, GRI Cell 650-906-5775 jim@nappo.com www.nappo.com

Jimmy Nappo

Welcome to an elegant property located on a quiet street in a highly sought-after North Los Altos neighborhood. The home features 3 spacious bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms and boasts 1,849 +/square feet of living space situated on a 10,000 +/square foot lot. Gourmet cook’s kitchen with a large breakfast area. Voluminous living room with picture windows overlooking the rear grounds. Beautifully landscaped front and rear grounds with an array of colorful plants and trees and a sparkling pool. Conveniently located to Los Altos Schools: Santa Ritas Elementary, Egan Middle, and Los Altos High.

Offered at $1,499,000

Realtor Cell 650-861-7661 jimmy@nappo.com www.nappo.com

apr.com | LOS ALTOS 167 So. San Antonio Rd. Ste. 1 Page 54 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

KATHY BRIDGMANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SPECTACULAR LISTINGS OF THE WEEK Nationally Ranked by the Wall Street Journal Top 100 2008 Sales Volume! ay und 0 S :3 en Op 30-4 1:

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Kathy Bridgman Direct 650.209.1589 kbridgma@apr.com www.KathyBridgman.com

Courtney Bridgman Eltherington Direct 650.209.1613 Courtney@apr.com

492 Arboleda Dr, Los Altos

851 Carnation Dr, Los Altos

100 Alma Ct, Los Altos

Located on a lot of approximate 10,384 square feet, this newly painted both inside and out 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers a light and spacious formal living room/ dining room combination with fireplace. Expansive and newly carpeted family room with vaulted ceiling and skylight, kitchen with adjoining breakfast nook and large backyard perfect for entertaining. Close proximity to downtown, shopping, transportation and highly desirable Los Altos schools.

Situated on a desirable cul-de-sac, this well maintained 4 bedroom and 3 bathroom home features an inviting living room/dining room combination with fireplace, hardwood floors and French doors to backyard. The remodeled kitchen offers ample cabinetry, granite countertops, recessed lighting, top quality appliances, breakfast nook and adjoins a spacious family room with fireplace, built-in entertainment center and large windows. Master bedroom suite with hardwood floors and large walk-in closet. Multi purpose sun room and exterior and interior of home newly painted. Excellent Los Altos schools and easy access to downtown.

Located on a desirable street in North Los Altos, this beautifully maintained and spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers many amenities and upgrades. With over 2,440-squarefeet of living space this home is designed for comfort and entertaining. Elegant and light filled formal living room with fireplace, separate dining room with sliding doors to backyard. Remodeled gourmet kitchen with granite counter tops, recessed lighting, ample custom cabinetry, skylight and adjoins a spacious family room with fireplace, recessed lighting and sliding doors to an expansive backyard with patio. Master bedroom with large walk-in closet. Excellent proximity to downtown and highly desirable Los Altos Schools.

Offered at $ 1,449,000

Offered at $ 1,495,000

Offered at $ 1,695,000

apr.com | LOS ALTOS 167 S. San Antonio Road 650.941.1111

March 3, 2010/ Los Altos Town Crier / Page 55

LOS ALTOS HILLS

$3,295,000

NEW PRICE! Gated estate, quiet cul-de-sac. Great floor plan featuring 5BR/3BA plus office, Spacious rooms, Tennis court, pool &3 car garage. Minutes to town.

LOS ALTOS HILLS

$5,950,000

1.62 acre estate w/ stunning main house 6 BR/7BA, backyard w/fabulous views of the Bay. Adj. property of 1.28 acres w/ Bay views for sale. Palo Alto schools.

LOS ALTOS NEW ON THE MARKET!

copy 6

$599,000

Spacious condo in the heart of the village, 1BR/1 & ½ BA, plus add. bonus room can be poss. 2nd bedroom. Views of the pool and hills.

ENTER YOUR DREAM HOME

$2,398,000

Stunning 2 years new, 5 BR/ 4 BA home approx. 3,540 sq. ft. on a 12,197 sq.ft. lot. Tastefully decorated w/ high end quality throughout.

ATTENTION TO DETAIL LOS ALTOS HILLS

$2,895,000

Exceptional property on over an acre of exquisite landscaping. 4BR/ 3& 1/2 BA, plus a sep. guest house. Easy commute access.

$4,195,000

Brand new custom home, 1/2 acre level lot in Los Altos Country Club area. Over 4,700 sq. ft. of living space, 5 BR/5.5 BA.

COMING SOON, A MUST SEE!

$4,288,000

LOS ALTOS HILLS

$5,300,000

Exquisite estate w/ incredible views. 6 BR/5.5BA, 6,210 sq.ft. home with park-like gardens, rolling lawns, terraced patios, gazebo, sparkling pool, spa & 2 Koi ponds.

New custom energy efficient 4,200 sq. ft., 5 BR/4.5 BA home, on an amazing creekside setting, over 1/2 acre lot size. Designed w/ great open spaces.

LOS ALTOS HILLS COMING SOON!

$3,195,000

Updated 4 BR/ 3.5 BA, Chef’s style kitchen, spacious family room. Private yard w/ pool & expansive lawn area, room for guest house. Minutes to L.A.

RARE & PRIVATE 18+ ACRES LOS ALTOS HILLS

$3,995,000

PRICE UPON REQUEST

Awe-inspiring, rarely found 18+ acres offers mt. vistas & privacy. Build your dream home, land may be subdivided. Currently on well water, city water available. P.A. Schools.

New Mediterranean villa w/views of the Bay. Private cul-de-sac, 5 BR/5 BA + 2 ½ BA, 4700 sq. ft., 1.5 acres, theater, wine cellar & elevator. P.A. Schools.

LOS ALTOS HILLS

$6,850,000

Majestic estate 1.12 acre w/ main home 5,500 sq.ft. inc. 5 BR /4.5 BA, + 1.25 acre parcel w/ guest house, tennis court, gazebo. Total of 2.37 acres adj. to Preserve.

MOUNTAIN VIEW GREAT LOCATION

$449,500 copy 8

Lovely Parc Crossings 1 BR & den. Perfect condition. New carpets, paint & blinds. Washer & dryer in unit, central Air. Fabulous location.

MOVE RIGHT IN

$649,000

Charming 2BR/2BA, 1,388 s.q.ft. home, 792 sq.ft lot. Enjoy indoor / outdoor entertaining. New paint. Bright & ready to move in! Great location.

CUPERTINO LOS ALTOS HILLS

$4,495,000

Gated European Estate, 1.3 acres park-like setting, 6,488 sq. ft. home, 5 BR/5 ½ BA inc. guest house, sep. bonus room & library. App. 1 block to the Village.

GORGEOUS DESIGNER SHOWCASE

$2,988,000

Stunning 4 BR /4.5 BA home + sep. office. Wonderful detail throughout. Pool, fountain, outdoor BBQ & fireplace. Views of Bay & Western Hills.

LOS ALTOS HILLS PRICE UPON REQUEST Incredible luxurious private estate w/12,000 sq.ft. 6 BR suites, + add. full bath & two .5 BA, sep. au-pair & in-law quarters, + 1,000 sq.ft. gst.hs. +4 acres resort living, vineyards, 6-10 garages & more!

Worldwide Referral and Global Internet Exposure Go to www.campi.com for a complete search. 195 S. San Antonio Road, Los Altos, (650) 941-4300 Page 56 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

http://www.campi.com

CITY OF LOS ALTOS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Adjustments of the City of Los Altos will a hold a public hearing to consider the following application: 1. 10-V-02 _ R. Hartman _ 112 Lockhart Lane Consideration of a rear yard setback variance to allow a rear yard setback of 17 feet where 21.5 feet is required. Project Planner: Lacey The Board of Adjustments public hearing will be held on Thursday, March 18, 2010 at 7:00 PM in the Community Chambers at City Hall, One North San Antonio Road, Los Altos, California. NOTICE IS HEREBY FURTHER GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Los Altos will hold public hearings to consider the following applications: 1. 09-DL-02 and 09-V-11 _ M. Moussavian _ 774-788 Orange Avenue Re-consideration of a tentative map to subdivide a property in the R1-10 District into three lots. The application includes a variance request to allow a corner lot that is less than 90 feet in width. Project Planner: Dahl 2. 09-UP-01 _ Creative Learning Center _ 2100 Woods Lane Re-consideration of a use permit application to operate a private school in an existing church facility in the R1-10 District. Project Planner: Dahl 3. 09-UP-04 and 09-V08 _ Complete Wireless Consulting _ 101 Fremont Avenue Consideration of a variance and a modification to a use permit for a personal wireless service facility to add three antennas. Project Planner: Koo The Planning Commission public hearing will be held on Thursday, March 18, 2010 at 7:30 PM in the Community Chambers at City Hall, One North San Antonio Road, Los Altos, California. Plans and detailed information are available for review at the Community Development Department in City Hall at One North San Antonio Road, Los Altos, CA 94022. Questions can be answered by calling the Community Development Department at (650) 9472750. Yvonne Dupont, Executive Assistant (3-3-10)

085-T LOS ALTOS CITY COUNCIL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Los Altos will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, March 23, 2010, at 7:00 p.m., at Los Altos City Hall, One North San Antonio Road, Los Altos, California, to introduce and waive further reading of an ordinance amending: A. Chapter 11.12 of Title 11 pertaining to use permit findings for wireless facilities; B. Chapters 14.06, 14.08, 14.10 and 14.12 of Title 14 pertaining to light wells and pool equipment in exterior

side yards in R1 Districts; C. Chapter 14.48 of Title 14 pertaining to height and permitted uses in the CRS District; D. Chapter 14.50 of Title 14 pertaining to limited conditional uses in the CT District; E. Chapter 14.74 of Title 14 pertaining to parking requirements for office uses; and F. Chapter 14.82 of Title 14 pertaining to the Board of Adjustments appeals process. Copies of the report will be available prior to the public hearing or at the public hearing. Interested persons are invited to express their opinions. If you challenge the action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues your or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing. SUSAN KITCHENS City Clerk (3-3-10)

086-T PURISSIMA HILLS WATER DISTRICT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON MARCH 10, 2010

Notice is hereby given that the Purissima Hills Water District will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, March 10, 2010. The public hearing will begin at 6:30 p.m. to consider proposed actions to increase the water unit rates. The DistrictÕs Board meeting and public hearing will be held in the District office at 26375 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills, California. The Water Rate Study outlining the necessity and cost justification for the proposed increase is available to all interested members of the public and can be reviewed or obtained at the District office or from the DistrictÕs website at www.purissimawater.org. The District will accept comments and protests up to the close of the March 10, 2010, public hearing. Written protests should be sent or delivered to the Purissima Hills Water District, 26375 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills CA 94022, Attention: Water Rate Increase Protest. /s/ Patrick Water, General Manager (3-3-10) 087-T NOTICE OF TRUSTEEÕS SALE File No. 7530.21443 Title Order No. 4169074 MIN No. YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 05/19/98. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashierÕs check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in €5102 to the Financial code and authorized to do business in this state, will be held by duly ap-pointed trustee.

The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encum-brances, to satisfy the obligation secured by said Deed of Trust. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the property address or other common designation, if any, shown herein. Trustor(s): THADDEUS P. FLORYAN JR., SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE, U.D.T. DATED JANUARY 12, 1982 Re-corded: 05/27/98, as Instrument No. 14201790, of Official Records of Santa Clara County, California. Date of Sale: 03/24/10 at 10:00 AM Place of Sale: At the Market Street entrance to the Superior Courthouse, 190 North Market Street., San Jose, CA The purported property address is: 1522 WISTARIA LN, LOS ALTOS, CA 94024 Assessors Parcel No. 342-02-018 The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reason-able estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is $107,305.12. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid, plus interest. The purchaser shall have no further recourse against the beneficiary, the Trustor or the trustee. If required by the provisions of section 2923.5 of the California Civil Code, the declaration from the mortgagee, beneficiary or its authorized agent was recorded with the appropriate County RecorderÕs Office and reads substantially as follows: The mortgage loan servicer declares that (1) it has obtained a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to California Civil Code € 2923.52 and (2) the timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) of California Civil Code € 2923.52 does not apply pursuant to California Civil Code € 2923.52 or 2923.55. Date: February 16, 2010 NORTHWEST TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC., as Trustee 505 N. Tustin Avenue, Suite 243, Santa Ana, CA 92705 Sale Info website: www. USA-Foreclosure.com Automated Sales Line: 714277-4845 Reinstatement and Pay-Off Requests: (866) 387-NWTS THIS OFFICE IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE FEI# 1002.146968 (3-03,10,17-10) 088T STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME The following person(s) has/have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s). The information given below is as it appeared on the fictitious business name statement that was filed at the County Clerk’s office. MUNIYANDY VILLAS, 1165 Reed Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086. Filed in Santa Clara County on: 3/21/2007 Under File No. 491605. R e g i s t r a n t ’ s Name(s):Muniyandy Vllas LLC, 3568 Agate #11, Santa Clara, CA 95051. This business was conducted by: limited liability company. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 2/18/2010. Regina Alcomendras

Public Notices Clerk-Recorder Santa Clara County File No. 534362 (3-3,10,17, 24-10) 089-T MADURAI SRI MUNIYANDI VILAS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 534358 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: Madurai SRI Muniyandi Vilas, 3064 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95051, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: a limited liability Rajaas LLC 3064 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95051. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: 7/1/2009 This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 2/18/2010. (3-3,10,17,24-10) 090-T KATHLEEN’S CONFECTIONS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 534116 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: Kathleen’s Confections, 1014 S. De Anza Blvd Apt 108, San Jose, CA 95129, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Kathleen Kaval, 1014 S. De Anza Blvd, 108, San Jose 95129. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: 2-11-10 This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 2/11/2010. (3-3,10,17,24-10) 091-T WAVERLYS HONEY SHOP FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 534613 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: Waverlys Honey Shop, 1056 Metro Circle, Palo Alto, CA 94303, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Maria Murnane, 1056 Metro

Circle, Palo Alto, CA 94303. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: Not Applicable This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 2/25/10. (3-3,10,17,24-10) 092-T CITY OF LOS ALTOS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, March 9, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council chamber located at One North San Antonio Road, Los Altos, California, the City Council will conduct a public hearing to hear objections to the dissolution of Community Facilities District No. 1. At the public hearing all interested persons shall be afforded the opportunity to be heard. Copies of the report will be available prior to the public hearing or at the public hearing. Interested persons are invited to express their opinions. If you challenge the action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues your or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing. SUSAN KITCHENS City Clerk (2-24,3-3-10) 073-T NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SELL ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Date of Filing Application: February 11, 2010 To Whom It May Concern: The Name(s) of the Applicant(s)is/are: UNLU OZCAN The applicants listed above are applying to the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control to sell alcoholic beverages at: 300 CASTRO ST MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA 94041-1206. Type of license(s) Applied for: 41-ON-SALE BEER & WINE - EATING PLACE (2-24-3-3,10-10) 074-T NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Title Order No.: 283242 Trustee Sale No.: 68582 Loan No.: 9022759625/001 APN: 15414-007 You are in Default under a Deed of Trust dated 06/16/1999. Unless you take action to protect your property, it may be sold at a public sale. If you need an explanation of the nature of the proceedings against you, you should contact a lawyer. On 03/16/2010 at 10:00AM, DSL Service Company as the duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded 6/29/1999 Instrument # 14874637 of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Santa Clara County, California, executed by: Margot Sonksen An Unmarried Woman, as Trustor Downey Savings and Loan Association, F.A., as Beneficiary WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash, a cashier’s check drawn by a state or national bank, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state

or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state). At the North Market Street entrance to the County Courthouse, 190 North Market Street, San Jose, CA, all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County, California describing the land therein: As more fully described in said Deed of Trust. The property heretofore described is being sold “as is”. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 1910 Mt. Vernon Court #17, Mountain View CA 94040. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, towit: $19,382.99 (Estimated) Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. Regarding the property that is the subject of this notice of sale, the “mortgage loan servicer” as defined in California Civil Code € 2923.53(k)(3), declares that it has obtained from the Commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to California Civil Code section 2923.53 and that the exemption is current and valid on the date this notice of sale is recorded. The timeframe for giving a Notice of Sale specified in Subdivision (a) of Section 2923.52 does not apply to this Notice of Sale pursuant to California Civil Code Sections 2923.52 or 2923.55. Date: 2/11/10 For: DSL Service Company, as Trustee By: FCI Lender Services, Inc., as Agent 8180 East Kaiser Blvd., Anaheim Hills, CA 92808 U.S. Bank National Association, Customer Service Department (949) 798-6002 For Trustee Sale Information log on to: www. rsvpforeclosures.com or call: 925-603-7342. Vivian Prieto, Vice President, FCI Lender Services, Inc. is a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose. (RSVP# 187757) (2-24-3-3,10-10) 075-T NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE T.S. No. GM-227839-C Loan No. 0356012082 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 10/5/2006. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU

NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state, will be held by the duly appointed trustee. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to satisfy the obligation secured by said Deed of Trust. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the property address or other common designation, if any, shown herein. TRUSTOR:BRIAN CHING AND KATHERINE V. KOLENKO, HUSBAND AND WIFE AS JOINT TENANTS Recorded 10/27/2006 as Instrument No. 19160744 in Book , page of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Santa Clara County, California, Date of Sale:3/18/2010 at 11:00 AM Place of Sale: At the North Market Street entrance to the County Courthouse, 190 North Market Street, San Jose, California Property Address is purported to be: 394-396 MARIPOSA AVENUE MOUNTAIN VIEW, California 94041-0000 APN #: 154-10-016 The total amount secured by said instrument as of the time of initial publication of this notice is $961,261.00, which includes the total amount of the unpaid balance (including accrued and unpaid interest) and reasonable estimated costs, expenses, and advances at the time of initial publication of this notice. Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: [ 1 ] The mortgage loan servicer has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date the notice of sale is filed; [ 2 ] The timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) of Section 2923.52 does not apply pursuant to Section 2923.52 or 2923.55. Date: 2/15/2010 ETS Services, LLC 2255 North Ontario Street, Suite 400 Burbank, California 91504-3120 Sale Line: 714-730-2727 Ileanna Petersen, TRUSTEE SALE OFFICER ASAP# 3452482 (2-24-3-3,10-10) 076-T

$35 is usually all it costs to publish your Fictitious Business Name in the Los Altos Town Crier

Call Chris at (650) 948-9000

March 3, 2010/ Los Altos Town Crier / Page 57

Public Notices NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Trustee Sale No. 239892CA Loan No. 3011135617 Title Order No. 291278 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 10-102006. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 03-17-2010 at 11:00 AM, CALIFORNIA RECONVEYANCE COMPANY as the duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded 10-24-2006, Book , Page , Instrument 19153844, of official records in the Office of the Recorder of SANTA CLARA County, California, executed by: JAMSHID PARIVASH AND, EFFAT PARIVASH HUSBAND AND WIFE, as Trustor, WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, FA, as Beneficiary, will sell at public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn by a state or national bank, a cashier’s check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a cashier’s check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state. Sale will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to the Deed of Trust. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Place of Sale: THE NORTH MARKET STREET ENTRANCE TO THE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 190 NORTH MARKET STREET , SAN JOSE, CA Legal Description: LOT 5, AS DELINEATED UPON THAT CERTAIN MAP ENTITLED ‘’MAP OF THE COSTELLO ACRES, BEING FRANCIS J. COSTELLO`S SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE FRACTIONAL SECTION 32 T. 6 S.R. 2 W. M.D.M.’’, FILED FOR RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE RECORDER OF THE COUNTY OF SANTA CLARA, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, ON DECEMBER 19, 1916 IN BOOK ‘’P’’ OF MAPS, AT PAGE 5. Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $1,990,730.28 (estimated) Street address and other common designation of the real property: 253 FREMONT AVE LOS ALTOS, CA 94024 APN Number: 189-48-024 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. The property heretofore described is being sold “as is”. In compliance with California Civil Code 2923.5(c) the mortgagee, trustee, beneficiary, or authorized agent declares: that it has contacted the borrower(s) to assess their financial situation and to

explore options to avoid foreclosure; or that it has made efforts to contact the borrower(s) to assess their financial situation and to explore options to avoid foreclosure by one of the following methods: by telephone; by United States mail; either 1st class or certified; by overnight delivery; by personal delivery; by e-mail; by face to face meeting. DECLARATION PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA CIVIL CODE SECTION 2923.54 Pursuant to California Civil Code Section 2923.54, the undersigned loan servicer declares as follows: 1. It has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.54 that is current and valid on the date the notice of sale is filed; and 2. The timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) of Section 2923.52 does not apply pursuant to Section 2923.52 or Section 2923.55. DATE: 02-22-2010 CALIFORNIA RECONVEYANCE COMPANY, as Trustee (714) 259-7850 or www. fidelityasap.com (714) 573-1965 or www.priorityposting.com CALIFORNIA RECONVEYANCE COMPANY IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. DEBORAH BRIGNAC, VICE PRESIDENT 9200 OAKDALE AVE MAILSTOP N110612 CHATSWORTH, CA 91311. ASAP# 3433343 (2-24,3-3,10-10) 077-T NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE TS # CA-09-327030AL Order # 290099 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 7/24/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 to the Financial code and authorized to do business in this state, will be held by duly appointed trustee. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. BENEFICIARY MAY ELECT TO BID LESS THAN THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE. Trustor(s): SHAMMI KUMAR AND, NAVIN KUMAR WIFE AND HUSBAND AS JOINT TENANTS Recorded: 7/31/2007 as Instrument No. 19530965 in book XXX, page XXX of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of SANTA CLARA County, California; Date of Sale: 3/16/2010 at 11:00 AM

Page 58 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

Place of Sale: At the North Market Street entrance to the County Courthouse, 190 North Market Street, San Jose, CA 95321 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $326,273.74 The purported property address is: 2025 CALIFORNIA ST #12 MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA 94040 Assessors Parcel No. 154-42-012 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the property address or other common designation, if any, shown herein. If no street address or other common designation is shown, please refer to the referenced legal description for property location. In the event no common address or common designation of the property is provided herein directions to the location of the property may be obtained within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale by sending a written request to Washington Mutual Bank, FA 7301 Baymeadows Way Jacksonville FL 32256 Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares as follows: [ 1 ] The mortgage loan servicer has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date the notice of sale is filed; [ 2 ] The timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) of Section 2923.52 does not apply pursuant to Section 2923.52 . If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, or the Mortgagee’s Attorney. Date: 2/19/2010 Quality Loan Service Corp. 2141 5th Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 619-645-7711 For NON SALE information only Sale Line: 714-730-2727 or Login to: www.fidelityasap. com Reinstatement Line: 619-645-7711 Quality Loan Service, Corp. If you have previously been discharged through bankruptcy, you may have been released of personal liability for this loan in which case this letter is intended to exercise the note holder’s rights against the real property only. THIS NOTICE IS SENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF COLLECTING A DEBT. THIS FIRM IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDER AND OWNER OF THE NOTE. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED BY OR PROVIDED TO THIS FIRM OR THE CREDITOR WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. As required by law, you are hereby notified that a negative credit report reflecting on your credit record may be submitted to a credit report agency if you fail to fulfill the terms of your credit obligations. ASAP# 3427351 (2-24-3-3-10-10) 078-T JB&B JEWELERS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533989 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: JB&B JEWELERS, 239 State Street, Los Altos, CA 94022,

Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Cynthia Zirpolo, 12675 Dianne Dr., Los Altos Hills, CA 94022. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: not applicable This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County 2/09/2010. (2-24,3-3,10,17-10) 079-T NEXT STEP COACHING AND CONSULTING FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 534211 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as Next Step Coaching and Consulting, 2445 Villa Nueva Way, Mountain View, CA 94040, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Susan Brownwood, 2445 Villa Nueva Way, Mountain View, CA 94040. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: not applicable This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 2/12/2010. (2-24,3-3,10-17-10) 080-T REAL PROPERTY SERVICES FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 534087 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as Real Property Services, 3790 El Camino Real #274, Palo Alto, CA 94306, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an unincorporated association other than a partnership Barbara Larsen 3790 El Camino Real #274, Palo Alto, CA 94306. James Hoffman 3790 El Camino Real #274, Palo Alto, CA 94306 Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: 8/18/1992 This statement was filed with the County Clerk of

Santa Clara County on 2/10/2010. (2-24,3-3,10-17-10) 081-T TUTTIMELON FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533976 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as Tuttimelon, 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd SPCB-170, Santa Clara, CA 95050, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: a limited liability company Tuttimelon VFLLC 2855 Stevens Creek Blvd SPCB170, Santa Clara, CA 95050. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: not applicable This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 2/08/2010. (2-24,3-3,10-17-10) 082-T CLASSIC PET GROOMING INC FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 534204 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as Classic Pet Grooming Inc, 572 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto, CA 94306, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: a corporation Classic Pet Grooming Inc, 572 Arastradero, Palo Alto, CA 94036. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: 1978 This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 2/12/2010. (2-24,3-3,10-17-10) 083-T LANGELAH DESIGNS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533861 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as Langelah Designs, 2731 Byron Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Linda Angela Hoecker, 2731

Byron Street, Palo Alto, CA 94306. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: not applicable This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 2/04/2010. (2-24,3-3,10-17-10) 084-T NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE TS # CA-09312718-BM Order # 090650113-CA-GTI YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 3/28/2003. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 to the Financial code and authorized to do business in this state, will be held by duly appointed trustee. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. BENEFICIARY MAY ELECT TO BID LESS THAN THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE. Trustor(s): WALTER S. BRUNN AND BARBARA B. BRUNN , TRUSTEES OF THE W & BRUNN TRUST, DATED JANUARY 08, 1991 Recorded: 4/3/2003 as Instrument No. 16930389 in book xxx, page xxx of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of SANTA CLARA County, California; Date of Sale: 3/9/2010 at 11:00 AM Place of Sale: At the North Market Street entrance to the County Courthouse, 190 North Market Street, San Jose, CA 95321 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $801,726.76 The purported property address is: 860 SO. EL MONTE AV LOS ALTOS, CA 94022 Assessors Parcel No. 33602-066 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the property address or other common designation, if any, shown herein. If no street address or other common designation is shown, please refer to the referenced legal description for property location. In the event no common address or common designation of the property is provided herein directions to the location of the property may be obtained within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale by sending a written request to Saxon Mortgage Services, Inc. 4708 Mercantile Drive North Ft. Worth TX 76137. Pursuant to California Civil Code 2923.54 the undersigned, on behalf of the beneficiary, loan servicer or authorized agent, declares

as follows: [ 1 ] The mortgage loan servicer has not obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.53 that is current and valid on the date the notice of sale is filed; [ 2 ] The timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) of Section 2923.52 does not apply pursuant to Section 2923.52 or 2923.55 . If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, or the Mortgagee’s Attorney. Date: 2/8/2010 Quality Loan Service Corp. 2141 5th Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 619-645-7711 For NON SALE information only Sale Line: 714-730-2727 or Login to: www.fidelityasap. com Reinstatement Line: (888) 325-3502 Quality Loan Service, Corp. If you have previously been discharged through bankruptcy, you may have been released of personal liability for this loan in which case this letter is intended to exercise the note holder’s rights against the real property only. THIS NOTICE IS SENT FOR THE PURPOSE OF COLLECTING A DEBT. THIS FIRM IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDER AND OWNER OF THE NOTE. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED BY OR PROVIDED TO THIS FIRM OR THE CREDITOR WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. As required by law, you are hereby notified that a negative credit report reflecting on your credit record may be submitted to a credit report agency if you fail to fulfill the terms of your credit obligations. ASAP# 3443196 (2-17,24,3-3-10) 062-T SPOTZOT FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533373 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: SPOTZOT, 1841 Junewood Avenue, San Jose, CA 95132, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: a corporation RUBY HUT, 1841 Junewood Avenue, San Jose, CA 95132. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: December 21, 2009 This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 1/25/2010. (2-10,17,24,3-3-10) 053-T

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Trustee Sale No. 239750CA Loan No. 0694776345 Title Order No. 282875 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 05-062005. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On 03-10-2010 at 11:00 AM, CALIFORNIA RECONVEYANCE COMPANY as the duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded 05-17-2005, Book , Page , Instrument 18375342, of official records in the Office of the Recorder of SANTA CLARA County, California, executed by: TETYANA BROWNER, A MARRIED WOMAN AS HER SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY, as Trustor, WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, FA, as Beneficiary, will sell at public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn by a state or national bank, a cashier’s check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a cashier’s check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state. Sale will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to the Deed of Trust. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Place of Sale: THE NORTH MARKET STREET ENTRANCE TO THE COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 190 NORTH MARKET STREET , SAN JOSE, CA Legal Description: A CONDOMINIUM COMPRISED OF: PARCEL ONE: AN UNDIVIDED 1/28 INTEREST IN AND TO LOT 1, AS SHOWN UPON THAT CERTAIN MAP ENTITLED ‘’TRACT NO. 8239’’ WHICH MAP WAS FILED FOR RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE RECORDER OF THE COUNTY OF SANTA CLARA, STATE OF CALIFORNIA ON APRIL 18, 1989 IN BOOK 598 OF MAPS, PAGES 27 AND 28. EXCEPTING THEREFROM THE FOLLOWING: A) UNITS

1 THROUGH 28, AS SHOWN UPON THE CONDOMINIUM PL AN RECORDED UNDER INSTRUMENT NO. 10332601, SANTA CL ARA COUNT Y OFFICIAL RECORDS. B) THE EXCLUSIVE RIGHT TO POSSESSION OF ALL THOSE AREAS DESIGNATED AS PS, P, AND B, AS SHOWN UPON THE CONDOMINIUM PLAN ABOVE REFERRED TO. PARCEL TWO: UNIT 24, AS SHOWN UPON THE CONDOMINIUM PLAN ABOVE REFERRED TO. PARCEL THREE: THE EXCLUSIVE RIGHT TO POS SES SION AND OCCUPANCY OF THOSE PORTIONS OF LOT 1, DESCRIBED IN PARCEL ONE ABOVE, DESIGNATED AS PS-24, B-24 AS APPURTENANT TO PARCELS ONE AND TWO ABOVE. Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $379,039.50 (estimated) Street address and other common designation of the real property: 1721 CALIFORNIA STREET #24 MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA 94041 APN Number: 15446-024 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. The property heretofore described is being sold “as is”. In compliance with California Civil Code 2923.5(c) the mortgagee, trustee, beneficiary, or authorized agent declares: that it has contacted the borrower(s) to assess their financial situation and to explore options to avoid foreclosure; or that it has made efforts to contact the borrower(s) to assess their financial situation and to explore options to avoid foreclosure by one of the following methods: by telephone; by United States mail; either 1st class or certified; by overnight delivery; by personal delivery; by e-mail; by face to face meeting. DECLARATION PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA CIVIL CODE SECTION 2923.54 Pursuant to California Civil Code Section 2923.54, the undersigned loan servicer declares as follows: 1. It has obtained from the commissioner a final or temporary order of exemption pursuant to Section 2923.54 that is current and valid on the date the notice of sale is filed; and 2. The timeframe for giving notice of sale specified in subdivision (a) of Section 2923.52 does not apply pursuant to Section 2923.52 or Section 2923.55. DATE: 02-16-2010 CALIFORNIA RECONVEYANCE COMPANY, as Trustee (714) 259-7850 or www. fidelityasap.com (714) 573-1965 or www.priorityposting.com CALIFORNIA RECONVEYANCE COMPANY IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION

OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. DEBORAH BRIGNAC, VICE PRESIDENT 9200 OAKDALE AVE MAILSTOP N110612 CHATSWORTH, CA 91311 ASAP# 3426077 (2-17,24,3-3-10) 063-T SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA CLARA PETITION OF ROBERT WALTER GATES ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR THE CHANGE OF NAME 110CV163052 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: ROBERT WALTER GATES filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: ROBERT WALTER GATES Proposed Name: ROBERT WALTER SAYLORS 2. THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING (a) 04-13-10 at 8:45 a.m. Room: 107 (b) The address of the court is: 191 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. (a) A copy of this Order to Show Cause be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county-Los Altos Town Crier, 138 Main Street, Los Altos, CA 94022. Date: FEB. 4, 2010 /s/ Thomas Wm. Cain Judge of the Superior Court (2-17,24,3-3,10-10) 064-T SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF SANTA CLARA PETITION OF KATHRIN RADISSON-SOHR ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR THE CHANGE OF NAME 110CV163035 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner: KATHRIN RADISSON-SOHR filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present Name: LEONIE EINSIEDEL Proposed Name: LEONIE

Public Notices RADISSON-SOHR 2. THE COURT ORDERS: that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. NOTICE OF HEARING (a) 04-13-10 at 8:45 a.m. Room: 107 (b) The address of the court is: 191 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95113. 3. (a) A copy of this Order to Show Cause be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation printed in this county-Los Altos Town Crier, 138 Main Street, Los Altos, CA 94022. Date: FEB. 4, 2010 /s/ Thomas Wm. Cain Judge of the Superior Court (2-17,24,3-3,10-10) 065-T PROMOVEOTECH FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533649 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: PromoveoTech, 2408 Alvin Street, Mountain View, CA 94043, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Shigeru Ogino, 2408 Alvin Street, Mountain View, CA 94043. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: not applicable This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 2/01/2010. (2-17,24,3-3,10-10) 066-T PROMOVEO FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533428 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: Promoveo, 2408 Alvin Street, Mountain View, CA 94043, Santa Clara County.

If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Shigeru Ogino, 2408 Alvin Street, Mountain View, CA 94043. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: not applicable This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 1/26/2010. (2-17,24,3-3,10-10) 067-T TRANSFORME FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533543 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: Transforme, 21089 Greenleaf Dr., Cupertino, CA 95014, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Susanto Purnama, 21089 Greenleaf Dr., Cupertino, CA 95014. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: 6/1/2007 This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 1/28/2010. (2-10,17,24,3-3-10) 054-T THE JUMPY MAN / JUMPY MAN / MR. JUMPY MAN FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533753 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: The Jumpy Man / Jumpy Man / Mr. Jumpy Man, 1010 Morse Avenue, Unit 8, Sunnyvale, CA 94089, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business

before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Joan I. Abriam, 353 Pettis Avenue #1, Mountain View, CA 94041. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: not applicable This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 2/03/2010. (2-10,17,24,3-3-10) 055-T STREETSMART VISUAL DESIGN FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 532901 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: StreetSmart Visual Design, 20421 Tricia Way, Saratoga, CA 95070, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Gregory Levinson, 20421 Tricia Way, Saratoga, CA 95070. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: not applicable This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 1/12/2010. (2-10,17,24,3-3-10) 056-T LOYOLA BEAUTY SALON FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533566 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: Loyola Beauty Salon, 999 Fremont Ave., Los Altos, CA 94024, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Thuy Phung Le, 672 Kodiak Ct. #6, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under

the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: not applicable This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 1/28/2010. (2-10,17,24,3-3-10) 057-T RISTORANTE TOSCANA FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533581 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: Ristorante Toscana, 300 Castro Street, Mountain View, CA 94041, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: an individual Ozcan Unlu, 1561 San Carlos Ave. #4, San Carlos, CA 94070, . Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: 02/01/2010 This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 1/28/2010. (2-10,17,24,3-3-10) 058-T RISTORANTE BELLA VITA FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 533582 The following person(persons) is(are) doing business as: Ristorante Bella Vita, 376 First Street, Los Altos, CA 94022, Santa Clara County. If the principal place of business identified above is not in Santa Clara County, a current fictitious business name statement for the fictitious business name(s) being filed at this time must be on file in the aboveidentified County that is the principal place of business before the statement can be filed. Does not apply because the principal place of business is in Santa Clara County. The business is owned by: a corporation BIRLIK Corporation Mehmet Donder, 560 Lassen Street, Los Altos, CA 94022 Seyhmus Gokce, 2 Cuesta Drive Apt. 1, Los Altos, CA 94022. Registrant/Owner began transacting business under the fictitious business name(s) listed above on: 01/21/2005 This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 1/28/2010. (2-10,17,24,3-3-10) 059-T

is usually all it costs to publish your Fictitious Business Name in the Los Altos Town Crier We can also publish all other legal notices. Call for fees.

Call Chris at (650) 948-9000 ex 304 March 3, 2010/ Los Altos Town Crier / Page 59

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100 Years of Success in Bay Area Real Estate

161 S. San Antonio Rd., Los Altos, CA 94022 MOUNTAIN VIEW

1222 Marilyn Drive $1,399,000

2065 sq. ft. on a 6,480 sq. ft lot. Four bedrooms three baths. Completely remodeled. Chef’s kitchen, Los Altos schools. Two master bedroom suites. Great room with modern audio/ video wiring and surround sound system.

Dave Luedtke 650.917.7960

Dave.luedtke@cbnorcal.com www.relosaltos.info

LOS ALTOS

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Terri Couture 650.917.5811

24481 Summerhill Ave. $1,599,000 Idyllic private location with gorgeous views! WHAT A FIND! 20,000 sq. ft. lot with charming 3 bedroom, 1.5 bath home. Hardwood floors, fireplace, nice grounds. Wonderful opportunity to build your dream house. Excellent Los Altos schools.

LOS ALTOS

50 Pine Lane $3,988,000 Stunning new French traditional home presents classic elegance & modern functionality. Energy efficient features. Arched window outlines, dormers, brick accents outside. Inside this 5BR/5.5BA home includes Brazilian cherry floors, rich millwork, spacious “chef scale” kitchen, full bar in recreation room, library w/cherry cabinets, large master w/fully appointed closet & bath, MUST SEE! Los Altos schools. Co-listed with Pam Blackman, 650.947.4798.

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$1,800,000

Newly rebuilt home in the Highlands! 5BD/3.5BA, huge living room with soaring ceilings, granite kitchen with adjoining family room, and 2 fireplaces. Marble, limestone and Brazilian teak flooring. Beautiful spa bath in large master suite. Walk to Montclaire Elementary. Lovely landscaping in front and rear yards. 3,061sf+/- living and 10,018+/- lot.

Page 60 / Los Altos Town Crier / March 3, 2010

439 Rinconada Court $3,649,000 Historical landmark home, beautifully updated. 4BR/3.5BA, two studies & sunporch. The 3-story Queen Anne home has solid oak, granite kitchen, adjoining FR, LR w/fireplace, gracious DR, upper-level rec rm, sweeping veranda, & full basement with builder’s plans. Mins. to Village & top schools, in an exclusive cul-de-sac. Significant tax property benefits of Mills Act. Approx. 3,600 sf home on 18,000 sf lot.

Go to www.Terricouture.com to see my other listings

LOS ALTOS HILLS AY ND SU 4:30 EN 0 OP 1:3

Co-Listed with Karen Scheel 650-917-4257

1931 Deodara Drive

terri.couture@cbnorcal.com Top 1% Coldwell Banker www.terricouture.com

26726 Moody Road

$2,350,000

Nestled on a wooded two acres, this California Contemporary features vaulted ceilings, 22 skylights, 2 fireplaces, walls of glass overlooking the sparkling pool & lawn area, state of the art kitchen designed by Rutt of Los Altos, limestone floors, master suite w/ remodeled bath & private deck, and 3 car grg. Near town, hiking trails, Hidden Villa, & top schools.

Jo Buchanan, GRI 650.947.2219 Stuart Bowen, e-PRO 650.949.8506 Stuart.Bowen@cbnorcal.com Top 1% Nationwide www.BuchananAndBowen.com Call us today...We can help!