Morgan Marchbanks - The Spectrum Magazine - Redwood City's ...

S t a b i l i t y . 

P u r p o s e . 

D i s c i p l i n e . 

P a s s i o n . 

L e a d e r s h i p . 

Morgan Marchbanks 

Leaving Sequoia a better place! 

Also in this issue: 

Ice Cream for All! Crabs, 

Corned Beef and “Stuff” 

In “As I Was Saying…” 

Bizzarro’s — Believing in 

Redwood City in More 

Ways Than One

Redwood City Saltworks is a 1,433-acre industrial site located in Redwood City 

Redwood City 

BRITTANIA SEAPORT CENTRE 

PACIFIC SHORES CENTER 

101 

STANFORD MEDICAL CENTER 

San Francisco Bay 

101 

DID YOU KNOW? 

• The Saltworks site is similar in size to Redwood Shores or the Presidio in San Francisco. 

• Salt has been produced on the site for more than 100 years. 

• The Saltworks site is immediately adjacent to major employment centers, like Pacific Shores 

Center, Britannia Seaport Centre, and the new Stanford Medical Campus. 

• Noted companies such as Dreamworks, Openwave and Protein Design Labs are located in 

the Pacific Shores Center. 

To learn more about the Saltworks site, please visit www.RCSaltworks.com or call us at 650-366-0500. 

Redwood City 

Saltworks 

1700 Seaport Blvd., Suite 200 | Redwood City, CA 94063 

650.366.0500 | info@RCSaltworks.com | www.RCSaltworks.com 

SW_SpectrumAd_Full.indd 1 

www.SpectrumMagazine.net 

2/19/09 3:47:46 PM

The Spectrum.MAR.09 

Steve Penna 

Owner and Publisher 

penna@spectrummagazine.net 

Anne Callery 

Copy Editor 

writers@spectrummagazine.net 

Judy Buchan 

Contributing Writer 


Michael Erler 



Nicole Minieri 



James Massey 

Graphic Designer 

James R. Kaspar 

Cover/Cover Story Photography 

jkaspar@sonic.net 

Valerie Harris 

Internet Maintenance 

Contact Information: 

Phone 650-368-2434 

E-mail addresses listed above 

www.spectrummagazine.net 

Welcome to the March issue of The Spectrum Magazine. 

Last month we highlighted gang issues, which proved to be very popular with our readers and the 

community. We have never before received so many e-mails, phone calls and comments on a single 

issue. Ironically enough, just after our issue came out, the city staff released a report that stated concern 

about gangs was the number one “social” issue among residents surveyed in Redwood City. Your positive 

comments were appreciated. 

In our cover story this month, contributing writer Judy Buchan profiles Sequoia High School Principal 

Morgan Marchbanks. She recently announced that she will be leaving her position at the end of this 

school year, and we thought it was the right time to take a look back at some of her challenges and 

accomplishments throughout the years. As you will read, she is leaving quite an impressive legacy. 

We are excited to bring you this month’s business profile on Bizzarro’s Auctions. This versatile business 

offers many services to our community, including charity auctions, donate-your-vehicle fundraisers, 

appraisal services and, of course, auto auctions. But more than all that, the owner, Frank, and his staff 

are all community-minded and contribute in so many positive ways. Contributing writer Nicole Minieri 

will tell you just how much they do. 

Publisher Steve Penna throws out a few topics — including Miss Redwood City judging, council 

candidates, crabs, corned beef and county “misinterpretations” — for our readers in his column, “As I 

Was Saying….” What will you think after you read his opinions? 

We also bring you our regular features on community interests, senior activities, financial advice by 

David Amann, information from the Redwood City School District, parties around town, news briefs, 

community cultural events and popular feature “A Minute With.” 

We encourage you to support our advertisers by using their services when you are out shopping, dining 

or enjoying yourself with friends and family. Many of our advertisers have special offers for you to 

cut out and present, so please take the time to look over their ads this month and use their coupons and 

discounts. That is what they are there for, and by using them, you show you appreciate their offers. 

Thank you to all of our readers for your support. We want you to know we will keep striving to bring 

you real community information worth waiting for! 

Contents 

This Month’s Photo Shoot – 4 

RCSD Corner – 5 

“As I Was Saying...” – 6 

Survey Shows More Concern About 

Gangs, Economy – 7 

Cargill Site Comes 

Before Bay Commission – 8 

Cultural Events – 11 

Through the Years – 14 

Community Interests – 15 

Morgan Marchbanks Looks 

Back and Ahead – 18 

Nonprofits in Action – 21 

Shop Redwood City – 23 

It’s Not a Job, It’s a Profession – 26 

News Briefs – 30 

Finance: 5 Reasons to be Bullish About 

Financial Markets – 33 

Senior Activities – 33 

A Minute With Diana Johnson – 34 

The Spectrum 3

Inside The Spectrum: Cover Story Photo Shoot 

Publisher Steve Penna arranged this month’s photo shoot with Sequoia High School 

Principal Morgan Marchbanks after the cover story interview was completed by 

contributing writer Judy Buchan. It was one of those months when everyone and 

everything was running late and deadlines were being pushed back, so the shoot was 

scheduled for St. Patrick’s Day, Tuesday, March 17, at 2 p.m., a mere one-and-a-half 

days after Penna and Marchbanks corresponded by e-mail. 

Cover story photographer James Kaspar was waiting on the front steps of the front 

entrance to the main building when Penna arrived, and the two proceeded to the 

principal’s office. Once they arrived, they were greeted by Dottress Rollin, who is 

Marchbank’s senior school secretary. Penna has known Rollin for several years, so 

the two quickly exchanged a friendly hug and she led them into the office, where an 

administrative meeting was wrapping up. 

Penna first met Marchbanks when he was chairman of the Sequoia Education 

Foundation and she had just been appointed principal, coming from Redwood High, so 

they have a long history and demonstrated a mutual respect as they greeted each other. 

Once the meeting broke, Kaspar began taking pictures in her office. 

After many shots, the three went to Rollin’s outer office, where they took some 

photos of the “dynamic duo,” then to the entrance hallway, the main building entrance 

and finally the small vehicle pathway that leads around the front of the school. The 

entire shoot took just about one hour. 

Marchbanks has faced many challenges during her years at Sequoia. Her first was the 

Cherokee mascot controversy. It was apparent after that resolution that she was on her 

way to proving herself a strong leader for a school in transition. 

The Spectrum salutes Marchbanks’ perseverance, dedication and commitment to our 

students and community. Because of her efforts, many who once might not have had 

the opportunity will now move on to college, trades, employment and quality lives. We 

can’t wait to see what she will do when she returns! 

www.SpectrumMagazine.net

RCSD Corner: News From the Redwood City School District 

School District Libraries Provide Services Beyond Reading 

The RCEF, in partnership with Oracle and the 

Westly Foundation, provided $100,000 in teacher 

SMART grants in the 2008–09 school year to 

bring innovation into Redwood City classrooms 

in the areas of science, math, technology and 

the arts. The visit by Gomez was one of several 

programs Hoover was able to implement as a 

result of the grant money offered by the RCEF. 

“The visit by Elizabeth Gomez is exactly the 

type of program we had in mind when we worked 

with Oracle and Westly Foundation to set up the 

SMART grants,” said Jo-Ann Sockolov, president 

of the RCEF. “It’s exciting to see this kind of 

community partnership bring new opportunities 

to our students in Redwood City.” 

“In the midst of 

budget cuts and 

our dire economy, 

students still need 

opportunities to think 

creatively.” 

Local artist Elizabeth Gomez works with Hoover students. 

Rice looks like ants. Meatballs are like 

basketballs. Beans look like spiders. Tacos look 

like boats. Hot dogs are like big fat caterpillars. 

Second-graders at Hoover School came up 

with these analogies during a recent art workshop 

with Redwood City artist and book illustrator 

Elizabeth Gomez. Students were challenged to 

identify their favorite food, complete the sentence 

“My favorite food is like …” and then draw a 

picture to illustrate the analogy. 

Gomez visited Hoover to give an art lesson 

to first- and second-graders, and talk with them 

about how her art gets made into storybooks 

for children. The focus of the lesson was not 

on artistic technique as much as it was on the 

imaginative process. Gomez challenged the 

passions,” said Hoover Principal Amanda 

Neborsky. “In the midst of budget cuts and our 

dire economy, students still need opportunities 

to think creatively. Students can create a work of 

art with materials as simple as paper, pencil and 

a few crayons, as our second-graders learned this 

morning.” 

This was not the artist’s first visit to Hoover. 

Earlier in the year, she gave children and their 

families an evening presentation about how she 

became an illustrator, and all pre-kindergarten 

through third-graders received a free copy of 

her bilingual book, “The Upside Down Boy,” 

courtesy of the Sobrato Foundation and Friends of 

the Redwood City Library. The teachers at Hoover 

have been reading Gomez’s books to students, so 

“Art can inspire students to pursue their passions.” 

students to take something very familiar to 

them — their favorite food — and imagine it as 

something fanciful. 

The student who saw beans as spiders drew a 

big bowl of spiders on a table. The student who 

thought meatballs looked like basketballs drew a 

picture of a flower in a shoe-shaped vase shooting 

a meatball into a basketball hoop centerpiece on 

a table. 

Gomez went on to explain how her drawings 

start as doodles, then turn into a series of penciled 

illustrations. “After doodling, I take the pictures 

I like and do many fancy drawings, many times.” 

She told students that it takes one to two years to 

turn a series of drawings into a book. 

“Art can inspire students to pursue their 

the children participating in the art lesson were 

already familiar with Gomez and her illustrations. 

Hoover does not have an art teacher on staff, 

so the opportunity to learn from a real artist 

was a new experience for many of the students, 

according to Neborsky. “Besides being a local 

artist who does beautiful work, Gomez is 

bilingual, and her stories and her history really 

connect with many of our students who are 

learning English.” 

Gomez’s art lesson to first- and second-grade 

students was paid for by a SMART grant from 

the Redwood City Education Foundation, 

a private organization that raises money 

specifically for K–8 student programs at the 

Redwood City School District’s 16 schools. 

Hoover student creates illustration with help of local artist. 


As I Was 

Saying… 

Publisher | Steve Penna 

I recently was invited and accepted the 

opportunity to be a judge for the Miss Redwood 

City scholarship pageant. Let me tell you, this 

event is back in our community and back in a big 

way. The new organizers, Chris Cheshire and her 

daughter Krista, have done a fantastic job getting 

contestants and sponsors and creating a buzz 

around the county again. They have really made 

a superb effort in providing an opportunity for 

young women to get much-needed scholarships 

and life experience. 

As I quickly learned, judging is a big 

responsibility and should not be taken lightly — 

scholarships are on the line here, and it is clearly 

apparent that education is important to all the 

young ladies involved. 

There are a total of six judges — three 

“celebrity” judges from the community and three 

“official” judges who are involved in the pageant 

world. They also run their own pageants in other 

areas, and that makes you wonder whether they 

should be judging pageants where the winners 

will be competing against their title-holders in the 

future. Haven’t any of these people seen the movie 

“Miss Congeniality”? It is, after all, a competition. 

The day starts out with breakfast and the official 

interviews at 10 a.m. on a Saturday morning. We 

are on a controlled timeline, so everything must 

go as scheduled. Of course, one of the judges was 

late and makes no excuses, telling us she overslept 

because she forgot to set her alarm. Oh well, so 

much for setting a good example. 

We are all given instructions on the judging and 

interview process and the day’s activities. We are 

then shown an informational video on the pageant, 

and we are ready for the first set of contestants. 

There are actually three pageants in one. The 

Miss Redwood City (all girls from Redwood 

City), Miss San Mateo County and San Mateo 

County’s Outstanding Teen (13 to 15 years old). 

There are a total of 13 young ladies competing, 

ranging in ages from 13 to 23 years old. 

As the first group enters, I am instantly 

impressed by each girl’s uniqueness, intelligence 

and attractiveness. We really have some bright 

young ladies in our community. The judges run off 

questions, none prearranged, ranging from “What 

would your friends say about you?” to “Favorite 

hobbies?” “Is Miss America ready for a lesbian 

title holder?” (I am sure there has been one, but we 

just did not know it). “Is Barack Obama’s policy 

of taking from the rich and giving to the poor 


going to work?” Etc., etc. 

Some of my favorite answers included “They 

would say I talk too much,” “Spending Saturday 

nights with my grandparents,” “Whale watching,” 

“My sister is bisexual,” “My best friend is gay,” “I 

worked at a wine bar, as a hostess, even though I 

was not 18 years old” and “Huh?” 

Almost toward the end of all the interviews 

walked in my breath of fresh air — a 17-yearold 

ray of sunshine who lit up the room with 

a personality that could have given Alicia 

Silverstone a run for her money in the movie 

“Clueless.” But this girl proved to be anything but. 

She was a contestant competing for the Miss San 

Mateo County title. Her smile, her walk, her odd 

confidence just made you want to scream, “I love 

this girl!” 

When asked the Obama question, she replied, 

“I think it is neat and stuff,” and then looked at us 

like we were supposed to know what all “stuff” 

includes. Were we the ones not getting it? I could 

not help but think. 

We learned she was going to sing the song 

“At Last” — and “not the Beyoncé version, but 

the original by Etta James” — for her talent. 

Impressive and “stuff.” Can’t wait. 

After all the interviews were completed, we 

were given a two-hour break and asked to come 

back for a prepared dinner at the Lathrop House, 

then on to the Cañada College Main Theatre for 

the 7 p.m. pageant start. 

As we entered the theater, I was instantly 

impressed by the enthusiasm of the almost-soldout 

audience. Many were holding signs and 

posters encouraging their favorite contestants. 

There were other title-holders from other pageant 

areas, plus dignitaries including Vice Mayor Diane 

Howard and sponsors including Redwood City 

businesses American Coast Mortgage, Mayers 

Jewelers, Paula Uccelli (another “celebrity” judge 

along with Jackie Rice and myself), Studio S 

Broadway Academy of Dance, Hannig Law Firm, 

Sequoia Chiropractic Clinic, attorney William 

Morris, Lourdes Carini, Bangkok Bay Thai, Key 

Market, the Saddle Room, Roosevelt Nail Salon, 

Wells Fargo Bank, Clean N Press, Broadway Auto 

Service and Charles Carter, DDS. 

As the competition began, the show was 

actually entertaining to watch. There were 

production numbers, a Mistress of Ceremonies 

(she was good, but next year it should be someone 

local, and maybe a publisher. Ha!), the farewells 

by last year’s title holders and on and on. 

The competition itself was divided into 

categories of (1) onstage questions — one girl 

named London as her favorite country — oops, 

(2) swimsuit for the “Miss” contestants and fitness 

clothes for the “Teens,” (3) talent — Wow! Some 

great performances, and (4) evening gown. 

Okay, so you are probably wondering how 

the contestant I was mentioning above, who was 

going to sing “At Last,” did. Let me tell you, 

she nailed it. One of the best performances of 

the night! It was neat and “stuff.” Her evening 

gown, flawless; swimsuit, her athleticism was 

perfection; her onstage question, very composed. 

I hope she competes in this pageant in the future, 

because I think she could win and may even be 

a strong Miss California possibility — she has 

that much potential. Funny how when you are in 

that environment, you realize how different the 

maturity is between girls just a few years apart, 

but experience makes such a difference in those 

few years. She finished first runner-up in the Miss 

San Mateo portion. 

The three girls in the Outstanding Teen 

competition were so close in talent, poise and 

speaking, I don’t know how we made a decision. 

I could not help but think what talented and 

composed young ladies they all were and what 

bright futures they all have. Their parents and/or 

guardians should be so proud of them all. 

Who were the crowned ones? Nineteen-yearold 

Anna Lisa Matias was named Miss San 

Mateo County. Sandra Robles, 17, of Woodside 

High School, was named Miss Redwood City. 

Both women will go on to compete in the Miss 

California pageant this summer. Thirteen-year-old 

Elyse Vincenzi was named San Mateo County’s 

Outstanding Teen. She will continue to the 

California’s Outstanding Teen competition. 

To be perfectly honest, I did not have Robles 

high on my point sheet. There were two other 

contestants whom I gave higher scores, and I did 

not feel that her talent — a cheer about herself 

— was up to par with the other singers, dancers 

and monologues. Plus, when she was asked her 

onstage question, “If you could be mayor for a 

day, what would you do?” she replied, “Free ice 

cream for everyone!” A cute answer, but if you 

come from a high school like Woodside, with 

so many social and economic issues, one would 

expect a more community-oriented and concerned 

(continued on page 32)

Celebrating All Things Square 

03-03-09 

04-04-16 

Greg Mack, left to right, Yasmina Teal and Rodney McMenomy eat root beer floats out 

of square glasses to celebrate Square Root Day early while at Our Common Ground in 

Redwood City. 

Is it hip to be square? Maybe not, but it could be lucrative. 

Redwood City teacher Ron Gordon is searching for the most unique idea 

that includes the most participants celebrating Square Root Day — 03/03/09. 

Feb. 2, 2004, or 02/02/04, was the last such day. It will not occur again for 

seven years, one month and one day on 04/04/16. 

Being square can be fun, Gordon explained. “In October, I’ll turn 8 

squared. And that doesn’t even sound that bad. Take the federal stimulus at 

$787 billion. That’s about $887,130 squared. That sounds manageable,” he said. 

The rules are simple: Be safe, be clever, have friends root for you, have fun, 

think square and, of course, be square. Winners are participating for a shared 

prize of $339. 

Some ideas for celebration include drinking root beer in square mugs, 

rooting for the underdog, eating a square meal or square dancing. 

Gordon’s students at Our Common Ground — a treatment program in 

Redwood City for adolescents and adults with substance abuse and addiction 

problems — celebrated to demonstrate the original idea. 

Rodney McMenomy, 17, was confused about the concept at first, he said 

while scooping ice cream into square plastic cups. “I thought it would be boring.” 

Instead, McMenomy joined with Greg Mack, Jesse McGill and Yasmina 

Teal to take a few minutes and enjoy root beer floats. McGill made square 

knots with rope — a skill he recently learned from Gordon. 

“He’s a goofy but awesome teacher,” he said. 

Teal was considering wearing a box to school to celebrate the holiday. 

On the last Square Root Day, Gordon and his family chopped vegetable 

roots — like carrots and beets — into squares. They then shipped the food 

to Punxsutawney, Penn., for groundhog Phil. Square Root Day falls on 

Groundhog Day only once in a century. 

“These days are like calendar comets. You wait and wait and wait and wait 

for them, then they brighten up your day and — poof — they’re gone,” he said. 

Contestants had a 339-hour window — between 9 p.m. Feb. 16 and 3 a.m. 

March 18 — to complete or make their square entries. The entry must have 

been submitted within three squared days of the March 18 deadline — in 

other words, entries were due by Friday, March 27, at 3 a.m. to be considered 

for the big prize. 

It’s not the only number-based holiday Gordon celebrates. 

Odd Day, like 01/03/05, 03/05/07 or the next one on 05/07/09, pays homage 

to the rare occurrence of consecutive odd numbers in a date — an occurrence 

that happens six times at the start of a century. 

Gordon doesn’t encourage celebrating Even Day, however — he doesn’t 

want to be held responsible for people getting even. 

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

Redwood City Resident Survey Shows More Concern About Gangs, Economy 

A new survey shows Redwood City residents are 

largely satisfied with the quality of life in their 

hometown, although concerns about the economy 

and gang presence have increased, city officials 

said. 

The first such survey since 2003, this document 

reflects a city of 58,400 adult residents who 

interact frequently with their neighbors and 

enjoy their redeveloped downtown. Nine out of 

10 residents are “very satisfied” or “somewhat 

satisfied” with life in Redwood City. 

The survey was conducted by phone during 

December 2008, spokesman Malcolm Smith 

said. Pollsters took efforts to ensure the 

400 participants were selected at random 

and represented a variety of ethnicities and 

neighborhoods. 

No single issue emerged as an overwhelming 

problem in the city, Smith said. While the 

economy topped the list of resident concerns, 

only 11 percent identified it as an important 

issue. Concerns about gangs received a 9 percent 

response, and 7 percent of residents are concerned 

about affordable housing. Smith said these results 

were “not a surprise, but a confirmation.” 

Prior surveys indicated concerns about 

affordable housing, education and traffic 

congestion. The city uses this document to gauge 

where services need improvement, Smith said. 

Data is cross-tabbed by respondents’ location so 

city employees can detect trends. If residents from 

a particular neighborhood express dissatisfaction 

with sidewalks or street sweeping, for example, 

the Public Works Department can work to 

improve these issues. 

In tough budget times, Smith said, the 

document will help the city “use our resources 

where they’re needed the most.” Of the eight city 

services listed in the survey, disaster preparedness 

and affordable housing received the lowest marks, 

while the city’s efforts to draw people downtown 

topped the list. 

Overall, 86 percent of respondents said 

their sense of community is “very strong” or 

“somewhat strong.” Nine out of 10 interact with 

their neighbors. Half the respondents give their 

time or money to a local organization, although 

80 percent of residents have never seen a city 

council meeting. 

The city aims to conduct surveys every few 

years, Smith said, but other budget priorities 

resulted in a five-year gap since the last one. He 

was not sure whether the program would survive 

future budget talks. 

Other survey results include: 

• 92 percent reported being either “very satisfied” 

(59 percent) or “somewhat satisfied” (33 percent) 

with the quality of life in Redwood City. 

• 59 percent reported feeling a “very strong” (22 

percent) or “somewhat strong” (37 percent) sense 

of community, while 27 percent felt a “somewhat 

weak” (22 percent) or “very weak” (5 percent) 

sense of community. 

• The issues most frequently mentioned as 

important were the economy and gangs. 

• More than four out of five residents are satisfied 

with city services. 

• Approximately three out of four residents feel 

either “very safe” (39 percent) or “somewhat safe” 

(37 percent) walking downtown after dark, while 

four out of five residents feel “very safe” (46 

percent) or “reasonably safe” (34 percent) walking 

alone after dark in their own neighborhoods. 

• Only a little more than half are happy with city 

staff and leaders. 

The entire survey results are available online at 

www.redwoodcity.org/survey. 


Cargill Site Comes Before Bay Commission 

Having triumphed over a ballot battle that could have killed development on 

the former Cargill Salt site, developer DMB Associates is now turning to the 

Bay Area commission whose approval it still needs. 

The San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission 

(BCDC) must issue a permit for development of the site. Although that end 

is still quite far away, DMB offered up a briefing of conceptual plans before 

BCDC. 

“At this point, any suggestions or comments can still be incorporated 

within the application,” said DMB spokesman Jay Reed. “This lets us know 

what they want and gives them a chance to hear background about the site and 

the planning efforts.” 

The briefing also provided Save The Bay Executive Director David 

Lewis the chance to argue why the salt ponds should be restored rather than 

developed into housing. 

Lewis and other opponents addressed the commission, but Lewis did not 

return a call for comment on his specific points. Lewis spearheaded the effort 

to defeat development of the land during last year’s contentious election 

battle, and Save The Bay Political Director Stephen Knight said he planned to 

echo the sentiments. 

The property is considered important in the San Francisco Bay. At one 

time it was part of a plan fostered by Sen. Dianne Feinstein for the federal 

government to purchase and restore endangered salt flats. That plan eventually 

dropped the Redwood City salt flats from preservation and instead was to 

preserve some land in the South Bay for a price tag close to $100 million. 

The BCDC has jurisdiction over any development on San Francisco Bay 

waters but Cargill, as successor to Leslie Salt, claims it is exempt. However, 

the California Attorney General’s Office decided Cargill falls in BCDC’s 

“salt pond” jurisdiction, according to Will Travis, BCDC executive director. 

Historically, the commission has had authority over the entire salt pond 

system of the bay but not the refining and processing facilities. The two 

groups are now agreeing to disagree but working on ensuring the site’s use is 

consistent with the current BCDC laws and policies. 

Applicable salt pond policies include the caveats that development be 

guided by maximum access to the bay without adverse effects on wildlife, 

permanent dedication of some of the water surface area and providing for 

resource conservation. 

BCDC policy also requires every effort be made to sell the land for public 

use before OK’ing development — a requirement BCDC Commissioner Rich 

Gordon said is challenging. 

“At the end of the day, in this climate, I don’t know where those dollars 

would come from,” said Gordon, also a member of the San Mateo County 

Board of Supervisors. 

BCDC also tackled the need for transportation if the site is developed, even 

though that issue is not in the commission’s jurisdiction, Gordon said. 

“Although we cannot rule over that, it lets the developer see here’s a set of 

public officials raising those concerns,” Gordon said. 

DMB has committed that any plans will be fully consistent with the 

commission’s bay plan policies, Travis has said. But absent any final plan, 

Travis said it is impossible to predict whether it would be approved. 

DMB is pushing what it calls a 50-50 plan, providing 50 percent for 

wetlands restoration, recreation and open space uses and 50 percent for 

mixed uses including housing. DMB accompanied its plan with a list of 10 

commitments to the community, including flood control issues, creating a 

transit-friendly development and ensuring the project is self-sufficient. 

Reed said DMB anticipates a development plan will be submitted in the 

next month, but currently nothing definitive is on the table. 

Despite the absence of a development plan, the briefing was scheduled 

because of the proposal’s large-scale scope, the policy issues raised and 

the controversy of using the site for something other than salt production, 

according to BCDC staff. 

The saltworks site is a 1,433-acre parcel of land — the largest untouched 

area in the Bay Area outside the Presidio in San Francisco — whose potential 

development has long been debated in the community. Last year, the dispute 

erupted into a full-out war between organizations like Save The Bay, Redwood 

City and a smattering of grassroots groups who took no sides other than 

opposing a ballot measure that would have significantly changed the city charter. 

Measure W, initially known as the Open Space Vote, would have altered 

the charter so voters rather than councilmembers would decide the fate of 

development on land zoned open space. Proponents said the measure did not 

preclude development, instead giving voters a direct input in the decision and 

forcing proposed projects to be better. Opponents worried some homeowners 

would be forced to ask the city as a whole for every home improvement or 

change. 

In response, the Redwood City City Council proposed Measure V, which 

would have changed the charter so any decisions on only the Cargill Salt land 

would require a vote. 

Ultimately, both failed and the issue returned to square one. 

Redwood City is currently updating its general plan and recently decided to 

use the current designations for the saltworks site. If DMB proposes changing 

the general plan to accommodate its development proposal, the developers 

will need to push a future amendment. Current estimates suggest that could 

happen in 2010. 

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




Cultural Events 

The Main Gallery 

1018 Main St., Redwood City 

At the corner of Main and 

Middlefield, in the historic yellow 

Victorian cottage 

650-701-1018 

W–F 11–4, Sat.–Sun. 10–3, and by 

appointment 

www.themaingallery.org 

Ellen Chong, “Beau Brownie” 

Oil on canvas, 8” x 10” 

Nina Koepcke, “Masquerade,” monotype 

24” x 20” framed size, 12” x 10” image size 

Two artists with many ideas come together to 

present “Divergent Views” at The Main Gallery. 

Painter Ellen Chong and ceramic and mixedmedia 

artist Nina Koepcke will collaborate on the 

show, which runs from March 25 to April 26, with 

a reception on Sunday, March 29, from 2:30 to 6 p.m. 

Chong paints what strikes her fancy and finds 

results in colorful tangents of the imagination. 

For “Divergent Views,” she gathers an eclectic 

selection of images into a collective representation 

of her work. A camera collection, objects on her 

kitchen windowsill, local landscapes and general 

paraphernalia go into the mix. Her work endeavors 

to bring personality, humor and/or character into the 

everyday-object scenes that she paints. 

Koepcke asks the questions “Inward looking or 

outward looking; what does the viewer see and 

what does he or she interpret when viewing an 

image? What is in front of the image and what is 

behind it? How does one’s view mask or reveal 

the artists’ intentions?” These are all views to 

consider in new works by Koepcke and Chong. 

Drawing inspiration from African Makishi 

masks, Koepcke explores the idea of 

masquerading in a series of monotypes and 

ceramic works. 

San Mateo County 

History Museum 

2200 Broadway St., Redwood City 

650-299-0104 

www.historysmc.org 

Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 

$2–$4; free for children 5 and under 

The History Museum is housed inside the historic 

1910 County Courthouse. Over 50,000 people 

visit the museum each year, and the number of 

local residents who hold memberships is growing. 

The History Museum teaches approximately 

14,000 children each year through the on- and 

off-site programs. The museum houses the 

research library and archives that currently hold 

over 100,000 photographs, prints, books and 

documents collected by the San Mateo County 

Historical Association. 

Ongoing Exhibits 

The Great Rotunda. The stained-glass dome 

of the rotunda, thought to be the largest in a 

Pacific Coast public building, is the architectural 

highlight of the museum building. 

Courtroom A. The oldest courtroom in San 

Mateo County has been restored to its appearance 

in 1910. 

Nature’s Bounty. This exhibit gallery explores 

how the earliest people of the Peninsula used 

the natural resources of the area and how those 

resources were used to help build San Francisco 

after the discovery of gold in 1849. 

Journey to Work. This exhibit gallery shows 

how transportation transformed San Mateo 

County from a frontier to suburbs. 

Carriage Display. An exhibit of the museum’s 

30 horse-drawn vehicles. 

Charles Parsons Gallery. An exhibit of the 23 

historical model ships created by Charles Parsons 

of San Carlos. 

Politics, Crime and Law Enforcement. The 

Atkinson Meeting Room includes the Walter Moore 

Law Enforcement Collection of historic badges. 

San Mateo County History Makers: 

Entrepreneurs Who Changed the World. The 

exhibit chronicles the entrepreneurs who made 

San Mateo County internationally known. 

Land of Opportunity: The Immigrant 

Experience in San Mateo. The exhibit tells the 

stories of the diverse people who came to the area 

and explores how different groups faced hardships 

and discrimination. It highlights the experiences 

of the early immigrant groups — Chinese, 

Japanese, Irish, Italians and Portuguese — in the 

late 1800s. 

Living the California Dream. The exhibit 

depicts the development of the suburban culture 

of San Mateo County. 

The Celtic Tiger: The Irish Economic Miracle. 

The exhibit explores how the Bay Area has 

participated in Ireland’s current economic boom. 

Angelica’s Bistro 

863 Main St. 

Downtown Redwood City 

650-365-3226 

Marty Atkinson 

West Coast Songwriter Celebration to Honor 

Jennifer Addan 

Dinner and live performance 

Wednesday, April 1, 7 p.m. 

Dinner starts at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. 

Call 650-365-3226 for reservations 

(continued on page 12) 


Cultural Events 

(Angelica’s Bistro, continued from page 11) 

Brett Reeves and Jason Powers 

Dinner and live performance 

Friday, April 3, 8 p.m. 

$5 cover charge 

Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. 

Red Desert Dancers 

Saturday, April 11, 8 p.m. 


Nancy Gilliland Trio 

Dinner and dancing 

Saturday, April 18, 8:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m. 

$10 advance, $15 door 

Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m., music starts at 8:30 p.m. 

County Line Trio 

Saturday, April 4, 7:30 p.m. 

$20 cover charge plus dinner 

Dan Schneider 

Dinner plus folk, rock and country 

Friday, April 10, 7:30 p.m. 


Dinner starts at 6 p.m., music starts at 7:30 p.m. 

Their last show was sold out! The Red Desert 

Dance Company, back by popular demand, is 

based in Redwood City. They bring fun, fusion 

and fabulous energy to the dance floor with a 

variety of props and dances ranging from candles, 

swords, veils, drum solos, tribal, cabaret and 

more. Winners in the local Fourth of July parade 

several years in a row, they perform at a variety 

of functions, including the three-day festival, 

Rakassah, in Vallejo in March. 

Whiskey Hill Band 


Friday, April 17, 8 p.m.–11 p.m. 


Dinner starts at 6 p.m., music starts at 8 p.m. 

The South City Blues Band 


Friday, April 24, 8:30 p.m.–11:30 p.m. 


Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m., music starts at 8:30 p.m. 

The Valerie Jay Band 

“Country rock” 


Saturday, April 25, 8:30 p.m. 

$5 cover charge plus dinne 

Advertise With The Spectrum 

Give Us a Call 650.368.2434 


Donate Your Vehicle 

650-363-2423 

Proceeds support Kainos Home & Training Center 

Providing quality residential, vocational and support services to developmentally 

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

community. 

Maximum Tax Deductions – We handle paperwork 


REDWOOD CITY 

THROUGH THE YEARS 

The Alhambra Theatre (Opera House) 

By Darold Fredricks, Special to The Spectrum 

The Alhambra ca 1890 (San Mateo County 

Historical Association) 

Grand opening poster (San Mateo 

County Historical Association) 

1906 earthquake damage Gevert and William (age 5) Plump 

ca 1870 

The Redwood City Democrat, 

Aug. 20, 1895: 

“The Alhambra of Redwood City 

may never rival in grandeur and 

historic association the famous 

place of Granada, but it will give 

to the progressive dwellers in the 

capital of San Mateo County all 

the comforts of a modern opera 

house. It is wholly in harmony with 

the spirit of esthetic progress on 

the Peninsula that A. Page Brown 

should plan and Charles Josselyn 

build an opera house worthy of the 

City. The house is of the mission 

type of architecture with the 

blending of the Moorish. There is 

a series of ornamental windows 

across the front, heavy cornices 

project and the tiled roof lends 

poetry to the structure. The building 

is to be of brick, sand finished. 

Seating capacity for 800 people 

will be provided. A spacious stage 

and fine dressing rooms will delight 

the actors and singers. Then the 

auditorium is so picturesque with its 

quaint timbers overhead instead of 

the finished ceiling. 

“The desires of the young people 

of Redwood City have not lacked 

consideration; dancing in the 

Alhambra is sure to be a delight, 

for the floor is laid on lines to 

make dancing agreeable. Below 

will be stores and a café. Electric 

lights, gas jets and fire escapes 

are to be provided for the building. 

Contractor Robert Brown, who built 

the Burlingame Country Club, will 

construct the new opera house.” 

Charles Josselyn did not hold back 

on his investing when building the 

Alhambra Theatre. He wanted it to 

be the most glamorous and dramatic 

building on the San Francisco 

Peninsula. He also wanted it to be a 

proud partner to the courthouse just 

several blocks west. Employing A. 

Page Brown, one of the most famous 

and well-respected architects in 

California and throughout the 

country, is evidence of Josselyn’s 

intent to make this structure equal 

to the architect’s and the owner’s 

characters for grandness and beauty. 

The grand opening was on the 

evening of Jan. 20, 1895. The 

performance was “Men and 

Women” and was performed by 

the troupe of T. Daniel Frawley 

Company. The company had 

appeared at the Columbia Theater, 

in San Francisco, the Saturday night 

preceding and received excellent 

reviews. Redwood City turned out 

in droves, purchasing all 800 of the 

tickets. Grand scenery and elegant 

costumes were the order of the day 

for this magnificent production. A 

nine-piece orchestra supplied the 

music introducing the play and at 

intermission. The orchestra also 

played for the dance that followed 

the play, making the evening a very 

special social occasion. Twenty-five 

percent of the gross receipts were 

donated to Redwood City so the 

town could purchase a grand clock, 

which was placed in the new school 

building across from the courthouse. 

The San Francisco Chronicle 

ran a long story about the grand 

opening. The reporter was 

obviously impressed with the 

theater and the troupe, as his review 

was again excellent. His prediction 

for the theater was that it would be 

a part of a circuit of the best in the 

country. He commented especially 

on the curtain drop and the painted 

scenery of a Venetian setting. 

The theater was more than just a 

playhouse; it was a place of social 

significance as well. It served as 

a community gathering spot even 

when no performance was planned. 

The great earthquake in April 

1906 did substantial but not fatal 

damage to the Alhambra. The 

inside was damaged, as well as the 

external walls. The San Francisco 

Call commented on June 10, 1906, 

“It has been given out that Charles 

Josselyn, after several careful 

inspections, has decided to have 

the Alhambra Theatre restored 

and the interior of the playhouse 

reconstructed along new lines. It is 

designed to have the stage removed 

to the rear portion of the building 

and to extend the building in that 

direction. The auditorium will 

thus be enlarged, the long entrance 

hallway dispensed with, and better 

and safer entrances and exits provided.” 

The theater gradually was used 

less and less, and by World War 

I, the only activity was a dance 

company academy that was used 

primarily to entertain the soldiers 

training at Camp Fremont in Menlo 

Park. William Plump, the son of the 

well-known early pioneer Gevert 

Plump, purchased the building in 

the mid-1910s and opened a saloon 

on the ground floor that was very 

popular for quite a period of time. 

The Redwood City Lodge No. 

168, F. & A.M. (Free & Accepted 

Masons), bought the property 

in 1921. They did a great deal of 

renovation and held a dedication 

of their new meeting place on 

Aug. 23, 1923. This is the oldest 

Masonic Order on the Peninsula. 

The adjoining structure, owned 

by the International Order of Odd 

Fellows, was given a common 

facade. The internal wall structures 

were changed during this period as 

well. Later, a kitchen was added to 

the back of the building. Many of 

the old-timers will remember those 

steep steps both in the front and the 

back of the building. 

Following a fire several years 

ago, John Anagnostou decided to 

restore the building to, as closely 

as possible, its original appearance. 

He is still looking at what would 

be the best way to use the ground 

floor that was the saloon. The upper 

floor, however, will be again part 

of the entertainment industry. We 

all hope it will return to one of the 

community’s favorite places to rub 

shoulders and meet friends. 

Editor’s note: The Alhambra 

Theatre is on Main Street 60 yards 

south of Broadway and has recently 

been beautifully restored as an 

office building and pub/restaurant. 

Its mahogany front gives it all the 

appearances of a place where Wyatt 

Earp would have spent his hardearned 

money. The restoration 

process was continuing at the time 

this article was written. 


Community Interests 

Grand Jury Says Green-Light More Red-Light Cameras 

Redwood City should green-light more red-light cameras because the use of 

one at the intersection of eastbound Whipple Avenue at Veterans Boulevard 

increased safety in its first six months of use, according to a San Mateo 

County Civil Grand Jury report. 

The city installed traffic enforcement equipment at the intersection in 2007 

based on five years of Redwood City Police Department data of collisions 

caused by drivers running red lights. The police found that during that time, 

there were 76 crashes of which 64 involved vehicles traveling eastbound on 

Whipple Avenue. 

The camera went live in February 2008, and in the first half-year, 527 

citations were issued. There was only one collision, compared to an average 

of six accidents every six months between 2001 and 2005. 

While the grand jury looked favorably at the camera, it did offer some 

suggestions for improvement. Signage does not include warnings for drivers 

headed east, and the city should place a link on its home page offering 

general information to the public about the program, the jury recommended. 

The full report is available at www.sanmateocourt.org/grandjury. 

Governor Appoints Redwood City Resident 

Marlon Evans, 34, of Redwood City, has been appointed to the Commission 

on Teacher Credentialing by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. Since 2006, Evans 

has served as the executive director for All Stars Helping Kids. Prior to that, 

he served as a director at the Knowledge Is Power Program Foundation from 

2003 to 2006 and was a major gifts officer for Stanford University Office of 

Medical Development from 2002 to 2003. 

Evans was the assistant director of undergraduate admissions at 

Stanford University from 1998 to 2001 and was a free agent with the NFL’s 

Indianapolis Colts in 1998 and the Carolina Panthers in 1997. He is a member 

of the Sports4Kids Bay Area Advisory Board of Directors. 

Cañada College Receives $600,000 Grant 

Cañada College in Redwood City has received a $600,000 grant from the 

National Science Foundation that will help students majoring in fields such as 

science, math and engineering. 

The National Science Foundation will provide the scholarships to students 

of the community college during the next five years. 

The grant provides $3,000 to students eligible for trigonometry and $4,000 

annually to students ready for calculus. Each student could receive as much 

as $15,000 over three years. 

The scholarship is open to community college students and graduating 

high school students. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. 

Fair Oaks Children’s Clinic Remodel Completed 

The ribbon cutting ceremony and reception held at the Fair Oaks Children’s 

Clinic Jan. 22 marked the completion of a major remodeling of the medical 

home to more than 4,000 area children. The clinic provides health care that 

includes physicals and exams, asthma care, immunizations and mental health 

services. 

The $400,000 refurbishing of exam rooms was underwritten by the San 

Mateo County Health Foundation, an independent community foundation 

supported solely through donations and managed by a volunteer board of 

directors. The San Mateo County Health Foundation raises funds to address 

health care concerns facing residents of San Mateo County. Most of its 

support goes to programs located at the San Mateo Medical Center and 

affiliated community health clinics. 

“The Foundation recognized the outstanding care provided to children at 

the clinic. We were pleased to do our part in making this remodel possible,” 

said Lee Michelson, executive director of the foundation. 

The Fair Oaks Children’s Clinic is located at 603 Laurel St. in Redwood 

City on the grounds of Hoover School. Financial assistance is offered to those 

who do not have insurance. For information about hours of operation and 

appointments call 650-261-3710. 

Five Stars for Redwood City Library 

Congrats to the Redwood City Public Library, which received the coveted 

“five-star rating” from the Library Journal Index of Public Library Service, a 

new rating system. The honor makes the library the top-rated of its size in the 

Bay Area and one of two top-rated mid-size libraries in all of California. 

Rite Aid Winner From Redwood City 

Christina Granato of Redwood City won first prize in Rite Aid’s “Win a Day 

With Denise Austin” sweepstakes. Granato and a guest will be escaping to 

the Lansdowne Resort in Lansdowne, Va., for a free three-day, two-night 

luxury spa getaway, including spa treatments and a workout session with 

fitness expert Denise Austin. Way to go, Christina! 

Redwood City District Put New $91 Tax on Ballot 

A $91 annual parcel tax would mean an estimated $2.3 million per year for 

Redwood City schools if voters approve the ballot measure in June. 

Faced with $4 million to $6 million in budgetary cuts, the Redwood City 

School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously to put a parcel tax 

before residents during a special election in June. The five-year levy will 

require a two-thirds yes vote to pass. School officials were optimistic the 

measure could pass, but only with the support of volunteers helping spread 

the word of the district’s needs. 

“This is about our kids. We can save jobs and, while saving jobs, make a 

better educational experience for our kids,” said Trustee Dennis McBride. 

The key to success will be education, said Alisa MacAvoy, who added that 

once people understand the need, they are ready to help. But first, they need 

to know what the district is facing. 

A $91 parcel tax, if passed, would generate $2.3 million in revenue for 

five years. Currently, the district is facing $3 million in mid-year cuts and $4 

million to $6 million in reductions for next year. As a result, the board voted 

to release staff. 

“If we don’t have people there who care about kids, our kids are not going 

to get what they need. I just feel that we have to take this risk,” said board 

President Shelly Masur. “We have to do something.” 

Those in attendance showed excitement and support for the parcel tax prior 

to the board’s vote. 

For parent Ray Dawley, there were many reasons to move ahead with the 

parcel tax. One major reason was that children within the elementary school 

district funnel into the Sequoia Union High School District. All neighboring 

districts that also go to the Sequoia district have parcel taxes and spend more 

money per student, he said. 

Last week, the board heard results of a 400-person phone interview 

conducted by Godbe Research regarding a potential parcel tax. 

Support for such a measure was at 69 percent when respondents were 

initially asked about a $91 annual parcel tax. Those polled were more likely 

to support a measure aimed at maintaining science programs, attracting 

and retaining quality teachers, keeping school libraries and services open, 

maintaining technology in classrooms, maintaining music and art programs, 

continuing electives in middle schools and providing reading and math 

tutoring programs for students. 

After hearing information about the potential tax, support for a $91 levy 

grew to 73 percent. 

A 2008 survey showed similar support and resulted in a suggestion of a 

five-year term. 

In February, the district sent out 24,000 fliers with a survey to registered 

voters within the city. The mailer was sent out in English and Spanish. The 

survey was also available online. About 800 surveys were returned by mail 

and 80 were conducted online. Out of the surveys returned, only 5 percent 

were opposed to a parcel tax. 

Redwood City previously attempted a parcel tax in 2005 but only earned 

61.69 percent support. 

Jefferson, San Carlos and Woodside elementary school districts all put 

parcel taxes on an all-mail ballot in May. 


GREAT gifts for Mother’s and Father’s Day 


Parties Around Town Kainos/Peninsula Sunrise Rotary Club Irish Night, Saturday, March 14 

Top left: Attorney Ted Hannig, Councilman Ian Bain, Paula Uccelli and Marilyn Territo. Top right: Connie Guerrero, Lilia Ledezma and Nori Jabba. Bottom left: Councilman Ian 

Bain, Paul and Jane Taylor, Cheri and Kevin Bondonno and Marc Manuel. Bottom middle: Rotary President Brandy Navarro and husband Danny, Cañada College soccer coach 

Kurt Devlin and Jennifer. Bottom right: Mayor Rosanne Foust and Councilman Jim Hartnett with former Mayor Jack Greenalch and his wife, Barbara. 

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Changing the Face of Sequoia High: 

Morgan Marchbanks Looks Back and Ahead 

By Judy Buchan, Contributing Writer 

S t a b i l i t y . 

P u r p o s e . 

Discipline. 

P a s s i o n . 

Leadership. 

Ask Sequoia High School grads and 

colleagues about Principal Morgan 

Marchbanks, and you’ll hear those 

words and many more. 

Marchbanks is stepping down from her post 

as principal at the end of the current school 

year. She has been accepted into the doctorate 

program at the University of California, Berkeley, 

where she will work toward a doctorate degree in 

educational policy and organizations research. 

As she comes to the end of her career at 

Sequoia, Morgan reflected on how she found 

Sequoia when she became principal in 2000, how 

she leaves Sequoia in 2009 and much more. 

“When I was appointed to Sequoia as interim 

principal in June 2000, there were multiple 

issues to address, as was explained to me by 

the superintendent, Dr. Jo Ann Smith, and the 

district’s board of trustees,” she recalled. 

She listed the challenges waiting for her when 

she assumed the principal’s role. “There was the 

issue of low staff morale as a consequence of the 

constant turnover of principals and the lack of 

consistent leadership. There was also an issue 

with inconsistent handling of disciplinary matters 

with students related to the constant turnover of 

site leadership. There was declining enrollment 

at Sequoia due to open enrollment and the 

perception of Sequoia in the larger community as 

a ‘failing school.’ There was the very real problem 

of the low Academic Performance Index (API) 

score, which was the lowest in the district and 

among the lowest in the county. And, there was 

the debate raging in the community and the media 

about whether the Cherokee Indian should be the 

school’s mascot.” 

And she was off and running. 

“My goals, as set by the district upon hire, were 

to improve the academic performance of Sequoia 

High School, reverse the trend of declining 

enrollment with the implementation of the 

International Baccalaureate program and facilitate 

the resolution of the Cherokee mascot debate,” 

Marchbanks said. 

Her personal goals were equally as daunting. 

“The goals which I set for myself as a leader were 

to retain and hire the most qualified faculty to 

address the diverse needs of the Sequoia student 

body, to respond to staff concern that students 

could address their academic issues without first 

addressing health and mental health issues, and to 

prove what I have felt as a novice teacher and then 

English department chair at Sequoia in the early 

’90s: that it was the best school for its positive 

climate, the spirit of ‘unaliyi’ (a Native American 

Cherokee word) and its focus on equity and 

achievement for all students.” 

Did it work? Ask Lorraine Rumley, president of 

the district board of trustees. “I’m glad both my 

girls went through Sequoia during the Morgan 

Marchbanks era,” she said. “Morgan is very 

passionate about education and access for all 

students, no matter their socioeconomic status,” 

she continued. No roadblocks kept students from 

learning, but they had to challenge themselves, 

Rumley told me. The International Baccalaureate 

program did not require an entrance exam, only 

the willingness to work. “I am very appreciative 

of Morgan’s work. She brought discipline to 

Sequoia, made it a comfortable place for students 

to learn and develop,” Rumley added. 

Ken Rolandelli, president of the Sequoia High 

School Alumni Association, agrees. “I believe 

that Morgan has done nothing less than an 

outstanding job at Sequoia. She brought Sequoia 

from the doldrums, both in terms of academics 

and morale, to a position of stature in academic 

circles and in the community in which it serves. 

It became obvious to me about two years ago 

that Morgan would be moving on to even greater 

achievement. So I am not surprised about her 

leaving. I wish her the best and thank her for all 

she has done. She leaves big shoes to fill, but I 

believe she has set a foundation and created a 

mindset where Sequoia will carry on successfully 

in her absence.” 

“She was great for Sequoia, providing a sense 

of stability for students,” said Paul Sanfilipo, 

former councilmember and chair of the alumni 

association’s scholarship committee. “Sequoia’s 

academic scores went up, thanks to Morgan. As 

chairman of the scholarship committee, I found 

Morgan to be very helpful.” 

It wasn’t all smooth sailing. In November 2007, 

an incident at the football game between Sequoia 

and Half Moon Bay thrust Marchbanks into the 

forefront of dealing with racial issues. 

According to the Half Moon Bay Review, 

“Students and officials at Half Moon Bay High 

School have issued three written apologies in the 

wake of charges of racial insults and documented 

bad behavior during a football game pitting Half 

Moon Bay and Sequoia high schools. 

“All agree the game was marred by streakers, 

that eggs were lobbed into the Sequoia section 

of the stands and rocks later thrown at the team 

bus as Sequoia students left the Nov. 2 game. 

Allegations that someone leveled a racial epithet at at 

least one Sequoia player remain under investigation.” 

News coverage at the time was widespread. 

Marchbanks was quoted as saying that she 

received a good deal of feedback because she 

responded to press queries. 

“Rather than let the CCS (Central Coast 

Section) investigate the matter and decide 

sanctions, I, as principal, along with our student 


ecords officer, the Redwood City police and our 

vice principals, decided to take our own actions,” 

she said at the time. 

Also in 2007, the San Mateo Daily Journal 

published a story on allegations of recruiting 

violations and questions about two varsity 

basketball players’ residency. Marchbanks 

subsequently fired coach Peter Simos and 

forfeited the remainder of the team’s South 

Division leading season. 

“There was very little evidence that the students 

in question lived at the address provided,” 

Marchbanks told the Daily Journal. “There was 

nothing that was credible that (indicated) they 

lived at the address in Redwood City. There was 

also admission they were riding the train (Caltrain) 

two to three days a week (to get to school).” 

The school decided to forfeit its final three 

games of the regular season, as well as the 20 

wins the Cherokees had already earned. 

“Even if it was with best intentions, it is still by 

definition recruiting,” she said at the time. 

And there was more. Would she have done 

anything differently during the Cherokee mascot 

debate? “I was directed upon hire to facilitate the 

resolution of the Cherokee mascot issue with a 

broad-based and representative committee and 

to maintain neutrality in the matter. That is what 

occurred. And as I am still a district employee 

who is going on leave to pursue my further 

education, I feel I must maintain that promised 

neutrality. So, the directive was addressed as 

given by the board of trustees. Hence, I am 

satisfied that I did what was directed.” 

Another bubbling issue is that of cheerleader 

uniforms. “First, we are exceedingly proud 

to have an award-winning, nationally ranked 

cheerleading team. The matter of their uniforms 

during the school day has been addressed to 

the mutual satisfaction of the school and the 

cheerleaders’ parents. In order to address the 

equity concerns brought forth by students and 

faculty, the cheerleaders at Sequoia now wear 

outfits during the school day on game days which 

are compliant with the school dress code. In fact, 

they may wear their competition uniforms with 

leggings during school time. On cold days, we’ve 

noticed that they wear their warm-up uniform. 

During games, rallies and competitions, they 

wear their uniforms, unfettered by additional leg 

covering that would impede their movement. We 

are quite proud of our cheerleading squad, and we 

are proud of the shared decision-making process 

that brought forth this resolution.” 

And gangs. “There isn’t gang activity at 

Sequoia per se,” Marchbanks said. “There has 

never been a gang fight on campus during the 

13 years that I have worked there as a teacher 

or principal. There are individuals on the 

campus who may be flirting with gang life 

or have been involved in gang life. This is so 

throughout our state and our nation. However, 

Sequoia disciplinary policy and mental health 

interventions we have on campus prevent any 

‘gang issue’ on the Sequoia campus. I am quite 

proud of the way Sequoia High School addresses 

the matter with laser-like focus to campus safety 

as well as the mental health issues of the students 

who are being courted by older gang affiliates and 

members. We work to empower students to discover 

their strengths, academically and in their characters, 

so the gang life doesn’t offer any attraction.” 

When asked to describe her worst day at 

Sequoia, she told me that “The worst days have 

all been associated with addressing the fallout 

from making hard decisions about matters to 

which the public or the press does not have all 

of the information, and the information is most 

often of a nature that I cannot fully disclose. I 

am the decision-maker, and those days when I 

take a beating have to do with making the best 

decision possible with confidential matters, so I 

am unable to disclose fully all of the facts so that 

the community can understand the reasons for my 

actions. Those are always the hardest days.” 

And the best days? “The best days are those in 

which our school receives recognition for the data 

which prove that we are doing the right things for 

kids. Period.” 

Looking back, Marchbanks saw that she 

achieved her goals. “I believe that I, and the 

Sequoia staff and Sequoia community, have 

achieved the goals set. I cannot claim credit for 

what the school has achieved; that would be 

counter to my educational philosophy as a leader. 

I couldn’t have gotten buy-in from the Sequoia 

staff if I hadn’t incorporated their goals into my 

own. Due to the reciprocity of respect and buyin 

at Sequoia, we have all achieved the goals 

that we set for the school. And, we have created 

programs that have improved the school’s success 

that were not in the vision of anyone when I 

began at Sequoia. They were created out of our 

examination of our weaknesses and research into 

effective programs. We have created Personalized 

Learning Communities at the 9th and 10th grade 

levels. We are in the process of constructing a 

full offering of Interest Pathways for 11th and 

12th graders. We successfully installed a Teen 

Resource Center and a Teen Wellness Center 

that address the emotional and social issues that 

students confront that impede their academic 

progress when left untended.” 

“I believe the data are quite clear that the situation 

at Sequoia had changed immensely. We are a California 

Distinguished School which has received Title I Academic 

Achievement Award status.” 

Is she leaving Sequoia a better place? 

Absolutely. “I believe the data are quite clear that 

the situation at Sequoia had changed immensely. 

We are a California Distinguished School which 

has received Title I Academic Achievement 

Award status; this dual award was earned by 

only 16 middle and high schools in the state of 

California in that year, 2007. Add to that, we 

have twice appeared in the last two years among 

Morgan Marchbanks and school secretary Dottress Rollin 

(continues on next page) 


Parties Around Town 

Changing the Face of Sequoia High: Morgan Marchbanks Looks Back and Ahead 

(Continued from 19) 


Newsweek magazine’s top 1,200 schools in the 

nation. Our International Baccalaureate (IB) 

exam-passed rate of 97 percent exceeds both the 

national and worldwide IB pass rates. We have 

more national board–certified teachers than any 

district school. And for the first time, Sequoia 

has drawn in the most students who live outside 

our attendance area than any other school in the 

district. This is an area, as I mentioned in the 

goals given to me by the board previously, where 

Sequoia has consistently been dead last. That 

reversal from declining enrollment to functioning 

as a magnet program for outlying areas within the 

district is proof positive that Sequoia’s perception 

in the community has changed dramatically. 

Again, the data speaks clearly as to the status of 

Sequoia High School since my arrival in 2000.” 

On March 20, Marchbanks will be inducted 

into the San Mateo County Women’s Hall of 

Fame. Hall of Fame inductees are selected by 

impartial judges outside the county who make 

selections without knowing the identity of 

nominees. The Hall of Fame is sponsored by the 

county’s Commission on the Status of Women. 

Marchbanks is now set to move forward to a 

new part of her life, in what else but education. “I 

now have the opportunity to pursue my lifelong 

dream to teach at the university level. I would be 

happy to teach either teachers or administrators, 

even both. And I fully intend to contribute to 

the body of research that examines the effect 

of equity-based policies in education and, 

conversely, to expose those programs and policies 

which run counter to the needs of students who 

have historic and predictable patterns of academic 

performance that prevented these groups from 

realizing full participation in our larger society. 

I hope to complete my Ph.D. in policy and 

organizations research at UC Berkeley within 

three to four years so that I can begin that aspect 

of my career.” 

“Sequoia will be losing a true leader in Morgan 

Marchbanks,” said former coach Mike Mancini. 

“I have had the pleasure of knowing and working 

for Morgan for over 15 years. Her dedication and 

commitment to excellence at Sequoia will be truly 

missed. As the principal at Redeemer Lutheran 

School, I have enjoyed sending our graduates to 

Sequoia as part of the International Baccalaureate 

program that Morgan developed. Her constant 

care and concern for the school environment has 

been awesome and her continued drive to make 

Sequoia a better place has been noticed by many 

throughout the Redwood City community. Having 

been a resident of Redwood City for over 40 years, 

I have enjoyed watching the positive growth that 

has taken place under Morgan over her years as 

administrator. I wish her God’s richest blessings 

as she embarks on her new journey.” 

You go, girl!

Nonprofits in Action 

Advocates for Children 

For as little as 10 hours a month, you could make 

a lasting difference in the life of an abused and 

neglected child. 

Each year, 600 to 800 San Mateo County 

children enter the foster care system as a result of 

abuse and neglect. Advocates for Children, CASA 

of San Mateo County, is actively seeking caring 

and consistent adults to mentor and speak up 

for the best interests of these children. Over 130 

children are waiting for someone who cares. 

If you would like to become a volunteer 

advocate, or just want to learn more, please attend 

an orientation held in their San Mateo office. Visit 

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

650-212-4423 for more information. 

City Talk Toastmasters 

Join the City Talk Toastmasters to develop 

communication and leadership skills. The club 

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

Chambers at City Hall, 1017 Middlefield Road. 

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

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

www.toastmasters.org for more information about 

the Toastmasters public speaking program. 

CityTrees 

CityTrees is a nonprofit working with the Public 

Works Department to enhance and care for 

Redwood City’s urban forest. They usually plant 

or prune on the third Saturday of each month. 

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

listing of events, dates and how to join. 

Family Service Agency of San 

Mateo County 

Looking for a dependable source of skilled, 

reliable workers? Family Service Agency of San 

Mateo County provides employers with mature, 

ready-to-work, experienced workers who are 55 

years and older. Employers contact the service 

because they appreciate the superior work ethic 

and the commitment to quality that mature 

workers possess. There are no fees for hiring 

candidates. Contact Barbara Clipper at 650-403- 

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

For those who are looking for work and are 

at least 55 years of age, Family Service Agency 

provides a range of services, including referrals 

for classroom training, vocational counseling, 

job referrals and on-the-job training for qualified 

participants. Contact Connie Tilles at 650-403- 

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

Friends for Youth 

Do you like to play video games, shoot hoops, 

watch baseball games or just have fun? Then you 

have what it takes to be a mentor! 

As a mentor, you can hang out with a young 

person like Reggie. He’s a 12-year-old who 

loves pizza, baseball and cars. He lives with his 

grandmother and three sisters and would love to 

hang out with a guy and have fun. There are 30 

boys like Reggie waiting to be matched with a 

mentor like you. Most of the boys wait more than 

a year to meet their mentors. 

If you are interested in becoming a mentor, 

you are invited to attend a one-hour information 

session in Redwood City. For upcoming 

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

friendsforyouth.org. 

Funders Bookstore 

If you haven’t wandered into the Funders 

Bookstore, you have missed one of Redwood 

City’s hidden treasures. This project is a 

volunteer effort by a group of dedicated people 

interested in supporting the San Mateo County 

History Museum and simultaneously providing a 

community bookstore for everyone’s pleasure. A 

large collection of hardback first editions, trade 

paperbacks, children’s books, cookbooks and an 

entire room of $1 paperbacks are featured. 

Bookstore hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 

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

San Mateo County History Museum at 2200 

Broadway, with the entrance facing Hamilton 

Street. Stop by for a browse! 

Hearing Loss Association of the 

Peninsula 

Hearing Loss Association is a volunteer, 

international organization of hard-of-hearing 

people and their relatives and friends. The 

nonprofit, nonsectarian, educational organization 

is devoted to the welfare and interests of those 

who cannot hear well but are committed to 

participating in the hearing world. 

A day meeting is held on the first Monday of 

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

Senior Center, 1455 Madison Ave. Educational 

speakers and refreshments are provided. A 

demonstration of assistive devices is held on the 

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

second-floor conference room at the Redwood City 

Public Library, 1044 Middlefield Road. Please call 

Marj at 650-593-6760 with any questions. 

Nursing Mothers Counsel 

Nursing Mothers Counsel, a nonprofit 

organization since 1955, provides free 

breastfeeding education and assistance by highly 

trained counselors (moms who breastfed for at 

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

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

NMC also has breast pumps and breastfeeding 

supplies available for purchase and rent. Call 

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

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

at www.nursingmothers.org. 

Optimist Club of Redwood City 

The Optimists invite you to become a member of 

Optimist International, one of the largest service 

organizations in the world, where “bringing out 

the best in kids” has been their mission for over 

80 years. Whether you’re a club officer or a club 

member who enjoys the fellowship and friendship 

of others with a common greater good, Optimist 

International needs you and would like you as a 

member. 

The Optimist Club of Redwood City meets 

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

Main St. For information, visit www.optimist. 

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

Membership Chair John Butterfield at 650-366- 

8803. Or just come join them for lunch to learn 

more about how you can make a difference to the 

youth in our community. 

Peninsula Hills Women’s Club 

Founded in 1960, Peninsula Hills Women’s Club, 

a member of the General Federation of Women’s 

Clubs and the California Federation of Women’s 

Clubs, is a philanthropic organization serving the 

community through charitable, educational and 

service programs. Meetings are held the third 

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

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

Redwood City, CA 94064. 

Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA 

In addition to sheltering and finding new homes 

for stray and unwanted animals (100 percent 

placement for healthy dogs and cats since 2003!), 

PHS/SPCA has vital programs for people. The 

shelter drives its mobile spay/neuter clinic into 

low-income neighborhoods, offering owners free 

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

a free animal behavior help line in English and 

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

And domestic abuse victims who wish to leave 

their abusive situation but are fearful of doing 

so because they have pets can receive temporary 

sheltering for their pets through PHS/SPCA. Call 

650-340-7022, ext. 330. 

Peninsula Sunrise Rotary Club 

The Peninsula Sunrise Rotary Club was chartered 

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

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

to hear a speaker at the Waterfront Restaurant at 

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

22 members, has frequently been honored as an 

outstanding small club by Rotary District 5150, 

which includes San Mateo, San Francisco and part 

of Marin counties. For more information or to 

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

Rebuilding Together Peninsula 

RTP is a Redwood City nonprofit that provides 

free home repair and renovations for lowincome 

families, seniors and people living with 

disabilities throughout the Peninsula. RTP’s 

mission is to promote independent living in safety 

and warmth through volunteer partnerships 

with individuals and groups in the community. 

All repair work is completed during National 

Rebuilding Day, an annual event that takes place 

on the last Saturday of April. For this one-day 

rebuilding event, thousands of volunteers and 

sponsors unite to rehabilitate the homes and 

community facilities of our low-income neighbors 

and revitalize communities across the Peninsula. 

RTP is currently seeking skilled volunteers and 

construction captains. Come see how one day of 

your time can make a difference in someone’s 

life. If you are interested in volunteering, call 

650-366-6597. For more information, visit 

rebuildingtogetherpeninsula.org. 

(continues on page 24) 



Shop Redwood City: Now More Than Ever — Shop Redwood City 

Shouldn’t you make the commitment to shopping locally? When you are shopping, dining or enjoying 

some entertainment, check out our Best of the Best selections below — businesses that not only 

provide excellent service but also contribute to our community. You will benefit because your sales tax 

dollars stay local and help us all. 

Auto Care: 

Redwood General Tire – 1630 Broadway – Redwood General Tire was 

founded on the principles of good customer service and quality products 

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

founding. Whether you are looking for 

a new set of tires or need repair work 

on your vehicle, this Redwood City 

institution has been providing quality 

vehicle services since 1957. They now 

have a free WiFi connection while 

you wait for your car to be serviced. 

Eating and Catering: 

Angelica’s Bistro – 863 Main St. – 

Located in the back of an antiques 

emporium, Angelica’s Bistro feels like 

it has been here since the 18th century. 

Sit in a cozy alcove and listen to 

romantic live music as you enjoy your 

meal. Lean at the counter and order a 

microbrew beer. Or sit in the garden among 

fountains and sculptures for afternoon tea. Visit www.angelicasbistro.com for 

menu and live entertainment offerings. 

Canyon Inn – 587 Canyon Road – “The Canyon Inn has had the same owner 

for over two decades, and every year it just keeps getting better. They have 

everything from their famous hamburgers to pizzas. They also serve all kind 

of sandwiches and pastas, and they even have a South of the Border menu! 

They now do Sunday breakfast buffet from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Don’t forget to 

reserve their closed patio for your next party. They have heaters, fans and a 

big screen TV (no extra charge). They do catering, too!” 

Encore Performance Catering – 2992 Spring St. – No matter the 

occasion, owner Dave Hyman’s catering menu goes on for eight pages of 

mouthwatering suggestions for everything from casual to formal events. 

Despite an entire page devoted just to warm appetizers, these are mere 

suggestions, and Hyman is quick to offer additional possibilities to fit any 

occasion. He also has a strong sense of community and participates in many 

community-oriented events. Additionally, Hyman is proud of the fact that 

his business products are nearly 100 percent recyclable, and leftovers are 

contributed to St. Anthony’s Padua Dining Room in Redwood City. Need a 

caterer for that party or event? Call Dave at 650-365-3731 or visit his Web site 

at www.epcatering.com. 

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

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

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

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

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

Financial Institutions: 

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

organization, SMCU does everything possible to ensure that all 

of your financial priorities are anticipated and fulfilled. Some of the more 

popular offerings include free personal auto shopping assistance, membersonly 

car sales, low-rate home loans and lines of credit. Contact them at 650- 

363-1725 or 888 363-1725, or visit a branch for additional information. Learn 

the advantages of membership banking. 

Legal Services: 

Business Profile of the Month 

Michelle Glaubert, Realtor at Coldwell Banker – 650-722-1193 

– Michelle doesn’t want to be one of the real estate agents that 

pass through your life; she wants to be the only Realtor in your 

life! When you work with Michelle once, she will do everything 

in her power to make you want to come back to her the next 

time you need real estate assistance. Since she works mainly 

on referral and repeat business, that strategy must be working! 

“People like my honesty and my follow-through,” says Michelle. 

“They know they can count on me and I absolutely refuse to let 

them down.” Visit her online at www.glaubert.com. 

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

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

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

long-term relationships and valueadded 

services, and to supporting 

and participating in the communities 

where they live and work. 

Personal Improvement: 

Every Woman Health Club – 611 

Jefferson Ave. – A women-only, bodypositive 

fitness center in downtown 

Redwood City. Services include 

classes, weight and cardio equipment, 

personal training, therapeutic massage 

and skin care. Flexible pricing, with 

several options available for members 

and nonmembers. Visit www. 

everywomanhealthclub.com or call 

650-364-9194. 

Re:Juvenate Skin Care – 1100 Laurel St., Suite F, San Carlos – Whether 

you are seeing a Re:Juvenate clinician for acne, sun damage, skin 

tightening, wrinkle reduction or laser hair removal, the process starts with a 

complimentary consultation with a member of the aesthetic staff. Call 650- 

631-5700 and mention The Spectrum Magazine. 

Home Improvements: 

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

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

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

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

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

nothing. Call today! 

Specialty Businesses: 

Bizzarro’s Auto Auction – 2581 Spring St. – Owner Frank Bizzarro has 

a unique business that offers auto auctions, consignment vehicle sales, 

appraisal services and even ways to donate your vehicle to needing charities. 

If you are thinking of holding an event with a live auction to increase your 

fundraising efforts, Frank and his staff are also a one-stop auction team with 

spotters, clerks, sample catalogs, bid numbers, etc. Just give Frank a call at 

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

Castle Insurance – 643 Bair Island Road, #104 – Castle Insurance is an 

independent insurance agency. They do not work for an insurance company; 

they work for their clients to ensure fair, prompt payment. They represent a 

carefully selected group of financially sound, reputable insurance companies, 

and they place each client’s policy with the company offering the best 

coverage at a competitive price. Visit www.insurancebycastle.com or call 

650-364-3664 for a free quote. 

Saf Keep Storage – 2480 Middlefield Road – What is the Saf Keep 

advantage? Safe. Clean. Secure. At Saf Keep, they want you to know that you 

and your belongings are safe and secure. They have a friendly and reliable 

team that is ready to assist you. Saf Keep offers a variety of storage products 

and services to suit all your storage needs. Visit www.safkeepstorage.com to 

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

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


Nonprofits in Action (Continued from page 21) 

Redwood City Art Center 

The Redwood City Art Center promotes creativity 

and community by providing art education, 

exhibitions, studio space for artists and outreach 

to the local community and schools. 

The Art Center has recently been involved with 

local events such as Target Family Day events, the 

Fair Oaks Middlefield event, the Pet Parade, the 

Salsa Festival and more. They offered fun, creative 

art projects for children who were visiting the events, 

and the center hopes this is just the beginning of 

their involvement with the community. 

For scheduling or donation, contact artreach@ 

redwoodcityartcenter.org. For more general 

information, visit www.redwoodcityartcenter.org 

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

Broadway, Redwood City. 

Redwood City Eagles #418 

The Fraternal Order of Eagles is an international 

nonprofit united in the spirit of liberty, truth, 

justice and equality. The organization attempts to 

make human life more desirable by lessening its 

ills and promotes peace, prosperity, gladness and 

hope. For more than a century, the Eagles have 

had a major positive influence on our region, nation, 

world and, most importantly, our communities. 

It was the Eagles who pushed for the founding 

of Mother’s Day. They support our police, 

firefighters and others who protect and serve. The 

Eagles have provided support for medical centers 

across the country to build and provide research 

on medical conditions including heart disease, 

cancer, spinal cord injuries, kidney disease, 

diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. They raise 

millions of dollars every year to help handicapped 

kids, uplift the aged and make life a little brighter 

for everyone. 

They meet on the second Tuesday of each 

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

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

play cards on the third Thursday and would love 

to have you join them. For more information, 

call President Ryan Herbst at 408-489-6582 or 

Secretary David Tomatis at 650-575-3225, or 

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

Redwood City Education Foundation 

The Redwood City Education Foundation is an 

all-volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated 

to providing students in the Redwood City 

School District with a strong education that lays 

the foundation for future success. They raise 

private money to provide enrichment programs 

to all students in the district. Their funding is 

focused on academic achievement, music and 

art, and health and wellness. They are currently 

seeking new board members. Board members 

are responsible for attending monthly meetings, 

chairing board committees, participating 

in fundraising and outreach activities, and 

promoting RCEF in the community. If you are 

interested in the possibility of serving on the 

board, please contact Adam Borison at 650-363- 

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

RCEF, check out www.rcef.org. 


Redwood City Rotary 

Redwood City Rotary performs many service 

projects, provides college scholarships and 

donates to international relief efforts. The 

50-member club meets in a spirit of good 

fellowship and fun each Tuesday at 12:15 at the 

Sequoia Club, 1695 Broadway, to hear speakers 

and plan community benefits, including the 

annual July 4 raffle that raises $80,000 for 12 

local charities. For more information about joining, 

contact President Bob Doss at 650-368-3900. 

Redwood City Sunrise Lions Club 

This group is small but has a growing 

membership. All members either live or work 

in our community and share a common goal of 

making our city a better place to live. This club 

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

Chartered in 1966, the club has been vigorously 

active helping eyesight-impaired youth in our 

schools and seniors who are hearing-impaired. 

Join them for breakfast! The Lions meet every 

Wednesday at Bob’s Court House Coffee Shop, 

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

Gibbons at 650-766-8105 for more details. 

Redwood City Women’s Club 

Redwood City Women’s Club meets at the 

clubhouse, 149 Clinton St., the first Thursday of 

each month September through June. Social at 

11:30 a.m. and lunch at noon, followed by meeting 

and program. For information, visit the group’s 

Web site at rwcwc.com. 

Sequoia High School Alumni 

Association 

The group meets the fourth Tuesday of each 

month at the Sequoia District Board Room, 480 

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

of Sequoia are welcome to attend. For more 

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

Web site at sequoiahsalumniassoc.org or e-mail 

sequoiaalumni@earthlink.net. 

Sequoia Stamp Club 

This club was established in 1947 and invites 

community members to visit. The club meets 

at the Community Activities Building, 1400 

Roosevelt Ave., every second and fourth Tuesday 

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

refreshments are served. The dues are only $3 

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

sequoiastampclub@yahoo.com or visit the group’s 

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

sponsors a free stamp show at the same location 

on the first weekend in December. 

Soroptimist International of South 

Peninsula 

The Soroptimists invite you to become a member 

of Soroptmist International, the world’s largest 

service organization for business and professional 

women, where “improving the lives of women 

and children” has been their mission since 1921. 

Soroptimists work through service projects to 

advance human rights and the status of women 

locally and abroad. They meet the second 

Thursday of every month. For more information, 

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

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

Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club 

Since October 1956, the Woodside Terrace A.M. 

Kiwanis Club has been devoted to community 

service in Redwood City. Through the decades, 

the club has provided funds to help many worthy 

community programs and continues to add more 

community projects. The Key Club of Sequoia 

High School, sponsored by the Woodside Terrace 

A.M. Kiwanis Club, was chartered in 1994 and 

has been involved in raising money and donating 

time and effort to many programs. 

The Woodside Terrace A.M. Kiwanis Club 

meets every Tuesday evening 6–7 p.m. at Harry’s 

Hofbrau, 1909 El Camino Real (one block north 

of Woodside Road). They invite you to come to 

their meetings and check out the club’s Web site at 

www.wtamkiwanis.org. 

Woodside Terrace Optimist Club 

This is a unique club made up of senior citizens 

who want to stay involved. Most, but not all, come 

from the residence at Woodside Terrace. The club 

is open to all of the community and provides an 

opportunity for seniors to be useful. 

The club’s funds are raised by a card, candy 

and necklace sale held on the fourth Wednesday 

of each month in the main lobby at 485 Woodside 

Road, open to the public. 

Lunches/meetings are at 12:30 p.m. on the 

second and fourth Wednesdays of each month in 

the Assisted Living Dining Room at Woodside 

Terrace. Guests are welcome. Please call President 

Jack Murphy at 650-780-9891 or Millie Cole at 

650-366-1392 for reservations. 

YES Reading 

This local organization is dedicated to 

empowering students through literacy and 

investing community members in underserved 

public schools. YES Reading recruits and trains 

community volunteers to provide one-on-one 

tutoring for elementary and middle school 

students reading below grade level. 

YES Reading operates several reading centers 

on the Peninsula and in the South Bay, including 

a site at Selby Lane School in Atherton. If you 

are interested in becoming a reading tutor for a 

child who needs your help, please call 408-945- 

9316 or email info@yesreading.org. Visit the YES 

Reading Web site at www.yesreading.org. 

Editor’s note: If you are connected with a 

nonprofit organization and want your information 

printed in The Spectrum, send it to writers@ 

spectrummagazine.net or The Spectrum Magazine, 

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

community know your contributions and maybe 

they will want to join you.

San Mateo 

County 

HISTORY 

MUSEUM 

presents 

Honoring our Heritage: 

IMMIGRANTS DAY 

FESTIVAL 2 0 0 9 

SAVE 

THE 

DATE 

S a t u r d a y, 

M A Y 1 6 

N O O N - 5 P M 

Music & Dance Performance 

Groups representing African-Americans, 

Basque, Chinese, Croatians, Filipinos, Irish, Italians, 

Japanese, Mexicans and Portuguese. 

O N 

C O U R T H O U S E 

S Q U A R E 

S T A G E 

Food Tasting Card $ 5 

Above, Mexico Vivo performing 

San Mateo County History Museum 

2200 Broadway Street 

Redwood City, CA 94063 

CONTACT: 650-299-0104 or 

info@historysmc.org 

Thank You to our 

Sponsors 


“It’s Not a Job, It’s a Real Profession” 

By Nicole Minieri 

“Going once, twice, three times, sold to the 

gentleman all the way in the back of the room,” 

is something you might hear being pitched by 

professional auctioneer Frank Bizzarro at the 

biweekly Bizzarro’s Auto Auction. The multiauction 

business includes public auto auctions, 

charity auction fundraisers and car donation 

auctions at three Redwood City locations: at 2581 

Spring St., on Edison Street and at Angelica’s 

Bistro on Main Street downtown. The Spring 

Street location is home to most of the auto 

auctions. Bizzarro, who is fully bonded and 

registered as a commercial fundraiser in the state 

of California, remains at the top of his game. 

Active in the auction industry since 1973, he has 

sold over 43,000 cars to date. 

Bizzarro was an Equity actor in New York 

for a number of years in the early ’70s and 

transitioned to auctions after responding to an 

ad for an apprentice auctioneer in New York. He 

pursued that avenue for a couple of years before 

entering the wholesale perfume industry. In 1983, 

Bizzarro and his wife moved to the Bay Area, 

and he eased his way back into working as an 

auctioneer. In 1989 he opened an antiques house, 

and in 1996 he launched Bizzarro’s Auto Auction. 

“It is quite enjoyable to do, especially if you like 

to perform,” said Bizzarro. “There are a lot of 

people in auction, but only 20 percent of them 

are able to do it full time. And it is because that 

20 percent find a way to make it work.” Bizzarro 

most certainly has found a way to make it work, 

because he has the passion, will and drive to do 

so. In 2001 Bizzarro closed the antiques portion 

of his business but kept building upon his charity 

and auto auctioning enterprises. 

Today, how Bizzarro’s Auto Auction works is 

quite user-friendly. In return for selling their cars 

at the auction, patrons receive a cash advance, 

advertisements in newspapers and on Bizzarro’s 

Web site, comprehensive detailing services 

available right on the premises, DMV paperwork 

processing and secured storage. Usually, more 

than 100 cars are offered to the general public 

at an auction. All of the autos are available for 

previewing the day before the auctions, which are 

held on Saturdays at 10 a.m. For those who wish 

to donate their cars, boats, RVs or motorcycles in 

the auction, all of the IRS and DMV paperwork 

is processed for free. Vehicles are accepted 

regardless of running condition, smogged or not 

and with or without car titles. Parties donating 

vehicles have the opportunity to select the charity 

or school of their choice from among those that 

Bizzarro’s Auto Auction represents. 

Vehicle donation is highly encouraged and 

can benefit the donor in several ways. The donor 

experiences no problems in selling a used car or 

truck and receives the maximum tax-deduction 

benefit. Bizzarro’s also offers free pickup and 

towing services for the vehicle and handles all of 

the paperwork. Vehicles are then reconditioned on 

an as-needed basis before being sold. 

For those who wish to sell their vehicles on 

consignment through Bizzarro’s public auctions, 


Bizzarro’s Auctions – More Than Just Cars 

that procedure is quite easy as well. Interested 

parties must have proper registration and at 

least two forms of ID with a matching name 

and address in order to generate a valid bidder 

number. The vehicle must also pass the smog 

inspection. Because this is a public auction, there 

are absolutely no guarantees on the vehicles, and 

they are sold in “as is” condition. 

In addition to the auto auction, Bizzarro also 

heads Bizzarro’s Gala Event Auctions. This 

branch of the business specializes in charity 

fundraising auctions and is responsible for 

the success of more than 100 charity events 

throughout the Bay Area per year. In this forum, 

Bizzarro is able to utilize his entertainment 

roots and years of training as an actor. His 

formal training was at the American Academy of 

Dramatic Arts, and he also performed stand-up at 

New York’s legendary comedy spots, such as the 

Improv and Catch A Rising Star. It is Bizzarro’s 

talent as an actor that gives him a leading edge 

as a unique auctioneer and has made him one of 

the best in the industry for 25 years. Since 1984, 

Bizzarro’s has been a one-stop auction squad 

at the UCSF Neiman Marcus event. We netted 

$145,000.” And a statement released by the 

Sequoia Hospital Foundation said, “Your team 

helped make Celebrate the New Sequoia Ball and 

Auction extremely successful. The event netted a 

record breaking $1.2 million.” 

But what makes Bizzarro and his auto auctions, 

charity fundraising and car donations even more 

engaging is that he does it all within Redwood 

City. “We think Redwood City is great,” said 

Bizzarro. “I stayed in Redwood City and have 

invested in the downtown area because I believe 

in it. Redwood City is still the best focal point 

for any business. Not only have I invested the 

business aspect here, but also have invested in 

the real estate aspect. I want to continue to live 

in Redwood City. And I certainly still have a 

strong belief that in 10 to 15 years from now, that 

Redwood City will still be the focal point of many 

businesses to come.” 

As for Bizzarro’s thoughts on being a frontman 

in the auction scene, “It is not just a job; it’s 

a real profession. The idea of working with a 

live audience is very similar to doing a live 

“I stayed in Redwood City and have invested in the downtown area because 

I believe in it. Redwood City is still the best focal point for any business.” 

for gala events and has provided exceptional 

consultations and state-of-the-art technology. 

The incomparable auction team is renowned 

for taking auctions to the next level. Because of 

Bizzarro’s appealing character as an auctioneer in 

charity fundraising, he has caught both local and 

national attention and has appeared repeatedly on 

television and in magazines. 

Bizzarro’s has worked with hundreds of 

local schools and nonprofit agencies, and the 

impressive roster of clients includes Sequoia 

Hospital Foundation, Woodside High School, 

San Francisco Zoo, March of Dimes, Menlo- 

Atherton Education Foundation, San Francisco 

AIDS Foundation, Junipero Serra High School, 

Special Olympics, California State Parks 

Foundation, Redwood City PAL and Public 

Interest Clearinghouse. Most recently, Bizzarro’s 

orchestrated the Fremont Opera’s Gala “Springs 

in Seville” auction on Sunday, March 15. This 

event featured Bizzarro as auctioneer, musical 

performances by the Fremont Opera and the 

Nichols Party Band, and authentic Spanish tapas. 

With a full agenda always scheduled in the 

calendar, Bizzarro’s Gala Event Auctions is 

already booked well into 2010. Some of their 

upcoming auctions include those for Immaculate 

Heart Church and El Carmelo in April, Seton 

School in May, Rebuilding Together Peninsula 

in June, March of Dimes in October, Peninsula 

Symphony in November and Mercy High School 

in March 2010. 

For gala events, Bizzarro’s is truly the best 

in the business. Bizzarro has been praised as 

“entertaining and one who will make a live 

auction engaging and fun!” The Wheelchair 

Foundation stated, “Your auctioneer skills 

brought the highest prices at the live auction, 

and you and your staff kept the pace lively and 

fun.” From UCSF: “I can’t begin to thank you for 

the outstanding job you did for us as auctioneer 

performance on stage. And being an auctioneer 

is a great place to use a lot of things that I have 

learned along the way!” As to his durability as an 

auctioneer, Bizzarro certainly hopes to be around 

for another 25 years. Hmm… Doesn’t sound like 

there will be a “curtain call” on this performance 

anytime soon! 

If you are interested and would like to learn 

more about Frank Bizzarro, Bizzarro’s Auto 

Auction and Bizzarro’s Gala Event Auctions, as 

well as the services he provides through public 

auctions, charity fundraisers and car donations, 

please visit www.bizzarrosauctions.com or call 

650-363-8055. 

Bizzarro (center) at a community event with Frank Bartaldo and Phil Bucher. 


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News Briefs 

Assault Trial Ordered in Fatal 

Stabbing 

The 21-year-old Redwood City man arrested for 

his alleged role in a fatal attack on a group of boys 

who threw rocks at a vehicle carrying him will 

stand trial for felony assault, a judge ruled after a 

preliminary hearing. 

Luis Antonio Herrera Jr., 21, has pleaded not 

guilty but was held to answer on the charge after 

the hearing in which the prosecution called a police 

officer and detective to testify. The hearing was 

held after a defense request for more time was denied. 

Herrera did not stab 15-year-old Matthew 

Johnson but did participate in the associated 

beating, according to the District Attorney’s Office. 

At approximately 1:20 a.m. Jan. 3, according 

to Redwood City police, Johnson and three other 

boys were throwing rocks at vehicles in the 

100 block of Franklin Street. A group of males 

left a red or orange compact car and reportedly 

confronted the boys. The encounter turned 

physical and Johnson was stabbed multiple 

times. He was taken to a local hospital and later 

pronounced dead. 

Authorities are still looking for others involved 

in the melee, including the person who did the 

actual stabbing. 

Herrera remains in custody in lieu of $25,000 

bail and a probation violation no-bail hold. He 

returns to court March 27 to enter a Superior Court 

plea and set a trial date. 

Redwood City Deemed AIDS 

Prevention Hot Spot 

Organizers of a female-targeted HIV/AIDS 

screening fair said more women than expected 

attended the event in Redwood City, where rates 

of AIDS infection are higher than in most of San 

Mateo County. 

Women, who comprise 12.5 percent of reported 

AIDS cases in San Mateo County, respond well 

to female-specific events like the recent HIV 

Awareness Health Fair for Women and Girls, said 

Danielle Castro, the education and prevention 

coordinator for the county’s AIDS program. 

“Often times women have a hard time discussing 

sexual ideas in a group with men,” she said. 

Castro said women’s risk of contracting HIV or 

AIDS often stems from “being on the receiving 

end if it’s having sex with a man.” Events like 

the health fair encourage women to be more 

aggressive with “condom negotiation,” or being 

empowered to require a partner to practice safe 

sex, she said. 

The event at the Fair Oaks Community Center 

in Redwood City offered free one-on-one 

counseling and HIV tests, with results available 

within 20 minutes. 

The fair drew 30 attendees, 17 of whom 

got tested. This number exceeded Castro’s 

expectations. 


Former Lawyer to Trial on 

Embezzlement Charges 

The former Redwood City attorney accused of 

taking nearly $1 million from his clients through 

unpaid loans and forged documents will stand 

trial on seven charges of embezzlement and grand 

theft, a judge ruled after a preliminary hearing on 

the evidence. 

After the three-hour hearing, one misdemeanor 

and one felony were also dismissed against 

Edward Duff Hume. Hume, 60, of Solvang, was 

to return to court March 18 to enter a Superior 

Court plea and set a date for trial on charges of 

embezzlement by the executor of an estate, grand 

theft, forgery and second-degree burglary. 

Hume has already forfeited his license to 

practice law, but conviction on the charges could 

also hand him prison time. 

While practicing law in Redwood City, Hume 

allegedly took the money between July 6, 2004, 

and May 2006. Hume, who was a licensed 

attorney in Redwood City since 1975, represented 

Frederick Helversen in the family trust. After 

Helversen’s 2002 death, Hume acted as the trustee, 

and prosecutors say he embezzled $824,361.28 

over the course of 18 months. 

In 2006, Hume allegedly asked two other clients 

to loan him $100,000 for home improvements 

on the condition the money was repaid by the 

end of the year. Hume did not repay the funds 

and is accused of presenting a forged document 

to one victim’s Menlo Park bank in 2006 asking 

for $6,000 from her personal account. The bank 

would not honor the document after learning from 

the woman she didn’t approve the transfer. 

Hume resigned from the California Bar in 

September 2007. The request took effect in April 

and disciplinary proceedings are pending. 

After his initial arrest and charges, the District 

Attorney’s Office tacked on charges to more 

alleged victims, although those were dropped due 

to insufficient evidence. 

Hume remains in custody on $500,000 bail and 

must show any money posted did not come from 

ill-gotten means. 

Driver Guilty of Assault on 

Pedestrian 

A female motorist accused of intentionally hitting 

and dragging a woman in a Redwood City parking 

lot after the pair argued was sentenced to five 

years’ prison after pleading no contest to felony 

assault and felony hit-and-run. 

The plea change spared Gail Nora Mason, 54, 

trial on the greater charge of attempted murder. 

The District Attorney’s Office sought nine years 

and eight months in state prison, but the court 

countered with a straight five-year term. Mason 

was immediately sentenced and receives credit 

for 209 days against the term. She returns to court 

April 28 for a restitution report. 

Mason turned herself in to Redwood City police 

Sept. 2, the day after the alleged altercation. 

Mason and another woman, both transients, 

already knew each other and ran into one another 

in the parking lot across from discount retailer Big 

Lots. The pair argued over the victim’s boyfriend, 

according to the District Attorney’s Office. 

Angry, the victim reportedly broke the side 

mirror on Mason’s van. Mason, according to 

prosecutors, drove the van directly at the woman, 

who was standing in a curbed planter with her 

back to the vehicle. The van struck the woman, 

dragging her several feet before Mason reportedly 

fled. The victim sustained compressed vertebrae 

and serious lacerations. 

Mason has been in custody on no-bail status. 

Manager Charged With 

Embezzlement 

A former general manager at a Redwood City car 

dealership took $835,000 by writing himself 

unauthorized checks to spend on gambling, according to 

prosecutors who charged him with embezzlement. 

Cesar Emilio Caceres, 34, took the money from 

Putnum Lexus over a span of approximately eight 

months beginning last June, said Chief Deputy 

District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe. 

Caceres had the office manager cut checks from 

business accounts by saying they were authorized 

by two of the three necessary people, Wagstaffe said. 

The loss was reportedly discovered by the owner 

while reviewing the auto dealership’s books. The 

money was used by Caceres for gambling, said 

Wagstaffe, although he did not know what type. 

Calls to Putnum Lexus went unanswered. 

Redwood City police arrested Caceres Feb. 

26. He pleaded not guilty to the charge of felony 

embezzlement and an allegation of theft of more 

than $200,000. He did not waive his right to 

a speedy trial. He asked for a court-appointed 

attorney and was ordered back to court March 4 

for a Superior Court review conference and March 

9 for a preliminary hearing. 

Bail was set at $850,000 and Caceres remains in 

custody. 

He has no prior criminal history in San Mateo 

County, according to court records. 

Cops Close Case on Bomb Threat 

Police have given up looking for what they believe 

was a jaded, laid-off employee who called in bomb 

threats to a Redwood City company. 

On Jan. 22, a manager or owner at NeoPost, 

located at 3400 Bridge Parkway in Redwood 

Shores, received repeated messages from an 

unidentified caller warning him of a bomb in the 

building, according to court documents. 

“Steven, this is the only time I’m going to tell 

you this. There’s a bomb in the building,” the man 

(continues on page 32)

MAY 7 

Save the Date! 

The Service League of San Mateo County 

invites you to the 

23 rd Annual Community Prayer Breakfast 

PRAYER... 

AMERICA’S 

HOPE 

First Thursday in May 

MAY 7, 2009 

The National Day of Prayer 

THURSDAY MAY 7 7:009:00 AM 

Crowne Plaza Hotel 

1221 Chess Drive, Foster City 

Tickets $40 per person Reserve tables for 8 

RSVP TO 650-364-4664 X 117 

or email: reservations@serviceleague.org 

Event Media Sponsor SPECTRUM MAGAZINE 


As I Was Saying…Continued from p6 

answered. But that is where maturity and experience come in. 

Nonetheless, she is a very impressive young lady and will be a fantastic 

representative of our community for the year to come. Robles has lived in 

Redwood City most of her life. The Woodside High School senior is currently 

a cheerleader (go figure) and previously played for the school’s volleyball 

team. She has attended Middle College at Cañada College. The program 

allows students to concurrently take high school and college level classes. 

As a result, students earn college credits while in high school. Robles is in a 

position to finish her general education at Cañada in a year, which is her plan. 

I told you, these young ladies are very impressive, as is the pageant. Next 

year, if you are asked, try to support it. It’s another way to help a student with 

educational goals and “stuff.” 

.… 

March is always a time when those in our community who work so hard 

volunteering and trying to raise money also give it away. Here are some of the 

highlights: The Sequoia Awards held their annual dinner at the Hotel Sofitel 

and gave away over $142,000 in scholarships to local high school seniors. The 

Peninsula Sunrise Rotary Club’s Irish Night raised over $23,000 to support 

local activities and had over 125 supporters eating a lot of corned beef and 

cabbage and drinking green beer. The Kiwanis Club’s “all-you-can-eat” Crab 

Cioppino Night was a real treat and netted the group over $9,000 to support all 

the community activities they fund. The community volunteer event Kaboom 

Build was held on Saturday, March 7, at Mezes Park (the “Tank Park”) and 

had over 300 community members helping to clean, paint, repair and build 

new playground equipment for the entire park. It was truly an exciting event 

to participate in and to watch. Could we live in a more giving community? 

.… 

This November’s City Council election is getting more competitive as the 

weeks go on, and we still have more than seven months to go. Here is a brief 

update on some of the candidates’ activities. Candidate Janet Borgens has 

gained new endorsements from Mayor Rosanne Foust, port Commissioners 

Ralph Garcia and Lorianna Kastrop and former Mayor Georgi LaBerge. 

Candidate Cherlene Wright has announced the endorsements of County 

Sheriff Greg Munks, Undersheriff and former Redwood City Police Chief 

Carlos Bolanos and Sequoia Healthcare District board member Art Faro. 

Candidate John Seybert recently held his campaign kickoff party at his 

Farm Hill home, and it was attended by Mayor Rosanne Foust; Council 

Members Alicia Aguirre, Jim Hartnett, Diane Howard and Barbara 

Pierce; planning Commissioners Jeff Gee (also a candidate) and Nancy 

Radcliffe; former Mayor Jack Greenalch; former City Manager Ed Everett; 

county Supervisor Rich Gordon; Chief Deputy District Attorney Steve 

Wagstaffe; school board members Alisa MacAvoy, Lorraine Rumley 

and Don Gibson; former school board member Chris Bohl; former county 

Sheriff and Sequoia Healthcare District member Don Horsley and former 

Assemblyman Ted Lempert. Also attending were business and community 

leaders Marc Manuel, Steve Howard, Max Keech, David Amann, Jeri 

Richardson, Paula Uccelli, Stacey Wagner, Bob Lutticken, Keith and Nina 

Kadera and Jack Castle. 

Candidate Kevin Bondonno is scheduled to have his kickoff event on 

Sunday, March 29, at the Red Morton Community Center. 

Not surprisingly, all six candidates are scheduled to attend the Chamber of 

Commerce’s 40th annual Progress Seminar to be held in Monterey on April 

17, 18 and 19. 

.… 

Godbe Research recently announced the results of a survey they conducted 

for developer David Bohannon of 400 Menlo Park residents on a project his 

company is trying to get approved that includes three eight-story towers on the 

east side of Highway 101 just south of Marsh Road. Sixty-five percent of the 

surveyed residents said they would support the project, noting that traffic was 

the main concern. 

Those results have to be sweet music to the ears of the No Additional Jails 

in Redwood City Coalition advocates who have suggested that area as a 

potential site for a new seven-story county jail. Considering the jail would 

be only one tower and have far less of a traffic impact, it seems like a perfect 

match. Hey, and a survey is already paid for. What more could you ask for? 

.… 

I know that you were all waiting on the edges of your seats to see what county 

Supervisor Rich Gordon was going to do next, right? Well, you can sit back 

now, because he has ended weeks of speculation about his political future and 

formally announced his plans to run for the 21st District State Assembly seat, 

trying to replace termed-out Ira Ruskin in 2010. As you may remember, I 

predicted that would happen in my January column. 

In declaring, he stated, “The bottom line is the state is so broken that I just 

feel somebody’s got to step up and fix it.” OK, do I really need to comment on 

this? Because I am sure you are thinking the same thing as I am. 

Expected to be challenging Gordon for the seat will be Palo Alto 

Councilwoman Yoriko Kishimoto, Foothill-De Anza Community College 

District board member Hal Plotkin and possibly fellow county Supervisor Rose 

Jacobs Gibson (who has not said whether she will run or not). The 21st District 

includes parts of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties and the city of San Jose. 

It will be interesting to see if any of those candidates feel they are 

egotistical or naive enough to think they can single-handedly solve the state’s 

broken problems, especially if they have been part of the system for the past 

12 years and “stuff.” Was that a comment or a thought? 

.… 

In other 2010 election news, former county Sheriff Don Horsley, who will be 

running for Gordon’s seat, has already raised an impressive $125,000 toward 

his campaign, and there is really no formidable candidate who is considering 

challenging him. Given his qualifications, support and respectability 

throughout the county, political watchers feel there will not be anyone to step 

forward and do so. 

In another county supervisor seat that is already being talked about, Rose 

Jacobs Gibson will not term out until 2012, but possible candidate names 

have already been floating around. County Board of Education trustee Memo 

Morantes is one, Redwood City Council Members Alicia Aguirre and Diane 

Howard are two more, as is John Bostic from East Palo Alto, who ran 

against Jacobs Gibson in last June’s election. That race is really too far out to 

speculate about, but the potential candidates are interesting, and it will be fun 

to watch over the next few years. 

.… 

I had so much more “stuff” to write about this month, like San Mateo County 

agreeing to pay $6.8 million to the U.S. government and holding no one accountable 

for having to do so, and the possible end to the Joe and Roberta Carcione 

lawsuit against the City of Redwood City, but I am running out of space and ink. 

But then, there is always next month. Isn’t there? 

As I was saying… 

News Briefs: Continued from page 30 

said in the first message, according to a search warrant filed by the Redwood 

City Police Department. 

The manager received two more calls threatening of a bomb in the building. 

Each call came from a different number. The last call came from a cell phone 

that was traced to a cellular phone purchased with stolen personal information. 

The phone was in service for only four days, said Redwood City police Sgt. 

Steve Blanc. 

Police believe the bomb threat came from a former employee recently laid 

off by the manager. That manager gave all departing employees his cell phone 

number, Blanc said. 

The company is now closed or will soon be closed. It has not received any 

additional threats and the case is considered closed, Blanc said.

Finance: Five Reasons to be Bullish About Financial Markets 

By David Amann, Special to The Spectrum 

During a long downturn in the financial markets, 

it’s hard for some people to be cheerful about their 

prospects for investment success. And that’s not 

surprising, because a daily diet of bad news can 

take its toll on investors’ outlooks. Yet if you look 

beyond the headlines, you can actually find some 

reasons to believe that brighter days lie ahead. 

Here are five of these potential causes for optimism: 

1. Recovery may be near. The financial markets 

obviously are connected to the overall U.S. 

economy, so it makes sense to keep an eye on how 

the economy is doing. As you know, we’ve been 

in the grip of a long and painful recession, but that 

may change fairly soon. In fact, the recession is 

likely to end in the second half of 2009, according 

to a majority of the economists surveyed by the 

influential National Association for Business 

Economics. And since the stock market has 

historically anticipated an economic recovery 

by about six months — and begun responding 

favorably — now may not be the time to abandon 

your long-term investment strategy. Of course, 

past performance is not a guarantee of future results. 

2. Market rallies can happen quickly. No one 

can predict the exact moment a sustained market 

rally will begin, but history has shown that rallies 

can start quickly and take off sharply. Consider 

this: In the first year of a recovery, investors have 

recouped an average of 82 percent of what they 

lost in the entire prior bear market, according 

to Standard & Poor’s. And since 1932, the S&P 

500 has gained an average of 46 percent in the 

year after stocks have hit bottom. Keep in mind, 

though, that we have experienced a largerthan-usual 

drop in the market, so you shouldn’t 

necessarily expect a rally to produce these results. 

Still, if you are out of the market when it does rally, 

you are likely to miss some of the strongest returns. 

3. Low prices may mean good opportunities. 

By almost any traditional measure of value, 

investments are now very attractively priced. 

And when prices are low, returns over the 

long term tend to be higher. Keep looking for 

quality investments — like other investments, 

they’ve been hurt by the downturn, but if their 

fundamentals are still sound, they could offer the 

greatest potential for long-term rewards. 

4. The Treasury and Fed are working overtime 

to support the U.S. financial system. While the 

problems of resuscitating our financial system 

are enormous, and the solutions are not clear-cut, 

the Department of the Treasury and the Federal 

Reserve are working hard to support the credit 

markets, boost liquidity, lower mortgage rates and 

take other steps that can ultimately benefit the 

economy and the investment markets. 

5. Low inflation can help boost “real” returns. 

Inflation, as measured by the Consumer Price 

Index, is currently close to zero. As an investor, 

you have reason to welcome a low inflation rate, 

because when inflation is high, it can erode the 

“real” returns of your investments. Consequently, 

you may be rewarded by investing in vehicles that, 

for the moment, are producing only modest returns. 

Keep the above factors in mind when you make 

investment decisions. Remember, if you’re going 

to help achieve your long-term goals, you will likely 

need to keep investing in even the gloomiest of 

markets — and, as we’ve discussed, there might be 

more than a few rays of light ready to pierce the clouds. 

Senior Activities 

The Veterans Memorial Senior 

Center, 1455 Madison Ave., 

Redwood City, provides the 

following activities that are open to 

the public during the month of April. 

Monday Morning Movie Madness 

(MMMM) 

Every Monday, 10 a.m.–noon 

Come to the VMSC every Monday in April and 

enjoy your classic favorites on the big screen 

again! After the movie, enjoy a hearty lunch for 

only $4.50. Call our lunch desk at 650-780-7259 

for menu selections and reservations. 

April 6: “Rebel Without A Cause” 

April 13: “Jailhouse Rock” 

April 20: “A Streetcar Named Desire” 

April 27: “Citizen Kane” 

Friday Movies for Everyone 

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

announced) 

Come to the VMSC in April for a free featured 

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

650-780-7270 for the most current movie listing. 

April 3: “Passengers” 

April 10: “W.” 

April 17: “What Just Happened” 

April 24: “Quantum of Solace” 

Earthquake Preparedness 

With Kathleen Jacobi 

Thursday, April 2, 1–2 p.m. Free 

It’s not a matter of if, but when the next 

earthquake will come, and it could be a big one. 

Being prepared will be crucial to your safety and 

survival. You will receive lifesaving information 

and an earthquake survival kit. There will be an 

opportunity to get your questions answered. Even 

if you have attended one of these lectures in the 

past, it never hurts to refresh your memory and 

update your response plan. 

“Grease” Theater Trip 

Saturday, April 4, 12:30 p.m. $65 

An excursion to see, hear and enjoy Time 

Magazine’s 2007 pick for “No. 1 Musical of 

the Year” at the Golden Gate Theatre in San 

Francisco. Price includes transportation to and 

from this live show. We will meet at the VMSC 

at 12:30 p.m. Reservations required. Please call 

Michele at 650-780-7344 to reserve your spot. 

Space is very limited. 

Why Can’t I Lose Weight? 

With Dr. Simia McCully 

Thursday, April 23, 1–2 p.m. Free 

Why is it so difficult not only to lose weight, 

but to keep it off? This lecture will be very 

informative and helpful. Dr. McCully studied at 

the world’s leading school for natural medicine, 

Bastyr University. She has a private practice in 

Menlo Park. 

Save the date: 

Mother’s Day Tribute Lunch 

Friday, May 8, 12–2 p.m. $15 

Join the VMSC as we pay tribute to the women in 

our lives. Mothers, daughters and granddaughters 

are encouraged to join us for this special 

luncheon. All mothers will receive a special gift. 

Individuals are also encouraged to send us photos 

and stories of their mothers for a special display 

in the VMSC lobby. Please contact Michele 

Venneri at 650-780-7344 for lunch reservations 

and/or to submit your photos and stories. 

To learn more about the Veterans Memorial 

Senior Center, call 650-780-7270. Redwood City 

Parks, Recreation and Community Services 

Department provides recreational facilities and 

activities for all ages and interests, and supplies 

building and custodial services for city buildings. 

Redwood City Parks also operates the Veterans 

Memorial Senior Center and the Fair Oaks 

Community Center, providing social, educational 

and cultural activities, as well as information, 

referral and counseling services to persons living 

in Redwood City and neighboring communities. 

Redwood City Parks is more than you think! Its 

Web site is located at www.redwoodcity.org/parks. 


A Minute With: Diana Johnson 

Diana Johnson was born in San Diego. She graduated from high school 

and attended college there. She has a son, Kenneth, 47, and a daughter, 

Lynne, 43, and eight grandchildren ranging in age from 10 to 28. She also 

has one great-grandchild. 

She moved to Redwood City in 1971 for a relationship that did not work 

out. Her community involvement started in 1984 when she joined the 

Friendly Acres (East Bayshore) Neighborhood Association. 

She has worked on the Redwood City Pride and Beautification 

Committee and the state organization of mobile-home parks (where she 

lobbies state officials), and has lobbied for rent control in Redwood City. 

Should Redwood City be proud? 

Yes! 

The proposed development at the Cargill site is 

in your backyard. Are you excited? 

Yes, I am! 

Still believe that rent control is needed in 

Redwood City? 

For mobile homes, yes. 

Which living person do you most admire? 

I can’t think of anyone I admire more than anyone 

else. 

What is your most treasured possession? 

My life. 

What talent would you most like to have? 

I have never wanted to be talented. I am boring. 

Something few know about you? 

I am very quiet at times. 

Which words or phrases do you most overuse? 

Why not? 

What is your greatest regret? 

That I did not finish college. 

What is your motto? 

Let live. 

Why do you get up in the morning? 

’Cause it is the thing to do. 

In 100 years, what will you be remembered for? 

Working on mobile-home issues. 

Anyone you got on your mind? 

No. 

Memorable moment? 

Fiftieth class reunion. 

First word that comes to mind? 

What? 

What or who is the love of your life? 

My grandchildren. 

What is your idea of perfect happiness? 

To be alive and well. 

You currently feel? 

Happy. 


So much more than 

tires since 1957... 

We offer much more than quality tires at fair prices. 

Our ASE certified technicians also perform: 

• Oil Changes 

• Brake Services 

• Smog Test, Inspection, and Certification 

We are a Gold Shield Station 

• Scheduled Maintenance (30k, 60k, 90k) 

...and other mechanical work 

Plus we offer exceptional personalized service and we 

guarantee the lowest total package tire price for all our 

products. Call or visit today to see why we’ve been an 

automotive services leader in the Bay Area for 50 years. 

Redwood General Tire 

650-369-0351 • www.RedwoodGeneral.com 

1630 Broadway, Redwood City

Morgan Marchbanks - The Spectrum Magazine - Redwood City's ...

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