Taekwon“Geremy” - The Spectrum Magazine - Redwood City's ...

Taekwon“Geremy”
Local group gathering worldwide attention
“As I Was Saying...”

The Spectrum.MAR.2013
Table of Contents
Inside The Spectrum – 4
RCSD Corner – 5
“As I Was Saying...” – 6
Be a Part of the “Stampede”
and Help Local Sports
Programs – 7
Cultural Events – 9
Shop Redwood City – 14
Redwood City Martial Arts
a “Factory for Building
Champions” – 16
Community Interest – 19
The first two months of the year seem to have gone by extremely fast. We hope you
will take some time to read the March 2013 edition of The Spectrum Magazine that
you hold in your hands now.
Redwood City is known for many things: Climate Best by Government Test, a
Sequoia High School graduate named “Dolby” and our courthouse having been
filmed in the hit movie Mrs. Doubtfire, among others. This month, contributing writer Julie
McCoy has two feature stories that capture community spirit and youth development and will
give Redwood City something else to be known for. Our cover story is on the Redwood City
Martial Arts organization and how it is fast becoming a world-class training facility for our
youth.
The other profile is on the Sequoia High School Stampede, which is fast becoming one of
the major events in our community. It is not only a healthy and fun activity for both participants
and spectators, but it also raises much-needed funds for the high school athletic programs.
As with all organizations, the Redwood City–San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce is
going through some changes. In Publisher Steve Penna’s column, “As I Was Saying…,” he
discusses those changes, his recent award from the organization and his thoughts about
community organizations and the need to recruit new members.
We also bring you our regular features on senior activities, items of community interest,
cultural and entertainment events, insurance tips from Hector Flamenco, information from the
Redwood City School District and the popular feature “A Minute With.”
The Spectrum encourages you, our readers, to support our valuable business advertisers by
using their services when you are out shopping, dining or enjoying yourself in our community
with friends and family. Many of them have special offers for you to cut out and present,
including discounts on services, food and beverages, so please take the time to look over their
ads this month and use their coupons and discounts. They want you to visit them. Businesses
in our community are an important component because they create sales tax revenues that
contribute to our overall city budget while providing much-needed services to all of us.
When you are looking for up-to-the-minute information about our community, visit us online
at www.spectrummagazine.net. May the luck of the Irish be with you this month and always.
Steve Penna
Owner and Publisher
penna@spectrummagazine.net
James Massey
Graphic Designer
007massey@gmail.com
Insurance Tips: Do You Need
Travel Insurance? – 29
Senior Activities – 29
A Minute With
Gordon Bliss – 30
Anne Callery
Copy Editor
writers@spectrummagazine.net
Dale McKee
Julie McCoy
Nicole Minieri
Contributing Writers
writers@spectrummagazine.net
James R. Kaspar
Cover/Cover Story Photography
staff@spectrummagazine.net
Contact Information:
Phone 650-368-2434
www.spectrummagazine.net
The Spectrum 3

Inside The Spectrum: Cover Story Photo Shoot
This month’s cover photo shoot was arranged through a
telephone conversation between Spectrum Publisher Steve
Penna and the owner and instructor of Redwood City Martial
Arts, Greg Escolta, for Monday, Feb. 25, at 4 p.m. at the group’s
training facility inside Powerhouse Gym on Broadway in
downtown Redwood City.
Penna arrived at the shoot first and entered the cardio room
at the Powerhouse facility, where the group trains. Penna is a member of
the gym, so he brought his workout clothes to do his own training after
the shoot. Cover photographer James Kaspar showed up shortly after. The
two joined the group and watched as they began training warm-ups.
The plan was to get several shots of the class as a whole and then focus
on Greg’s son Geremy, who was the 2012 Junior World Taekwondo
champion and contributes as a mentor to the other youths in the classes as
well as trains to perfect his own craft.
There was a lot of action and activity in a short period of time while
everyone was positioned, and Penna and Kaspar were extremely pleased
with the results as they went through the camera images. To make it even
better, several parents and friends who wanted to see the shoot had packed
the practice room.
The entire shoot took only about 30 minutes.
The Spectrum Magazine salutes businesses and individuals in our community
who encourage our youth to work hard and focus on something positive
and physical to improve their lives. With the right direction, sports can
lead youth to be productive members of our community.
Although success is measured on different levels, it is a testament to the success of
this program that they will have six students representing Redwood City
at the Junior and Senior Olympic Taekwondo National Championships
this summer in Chicago. Best of luck to all. You have made us proud!
Painting, moving, gardening
or construction needs?
Hire a Reliable Worker
through the
A non profit organization
Call: (650) 339-2794
Or go to: www.mionline.org
All wages go directly to workers
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
www.SpectrumMagazine.net

RCSD Corner: News From the Redwood City School District
Healthy Schools Initiative Keeps RWC Students Fit and Healthy
juice or other sugary drinks, the district launched
a “Water First for Thirst” campaign with the help
of its partners. Coaches in the PE+ program act
as role models by drinking only water on campus.
They also lead brief daily nutrition lessons to
remind students why eating nutritious food and
drinking water is good for playing and learning.
Last fall, on International Walk to School Day,
students at Hoover School received fliers and
water bottles donated by the Sequoia Healthcare
District and printed with the Water First for Thirst
slogan to remind them to drink water, not juice or
sports drinks, after exercising.
Sequoia Healthcare District’s Healthy Schools Initiative provides physical education to students at 10 local elementary schools.
Students do better in school when they are
physically fit and eat a balanced diet, but learning
healthy lifestyle habits is not automatic. Children
need opportunities to get exercise during the
school day and, like adults, they sometimes
need encouragement to eat right and drink water
instead of sugar-sweetened beverages. In the
last few years, community partnerships have
made it possible for students at the district’s 16
schools to have physical education (PE) and learn
about nutrition and healthy living habits. The
Sequoia Healthcare District, the Redwood City
Education Foundation, the City of Redwood City,
San Mateo County, corporate grants, local faith
organizations, individual school PTAs and parent
groups have all contributed to programs that
encourage student health and well-being.
In August 2010, Sequoia Healthcare District
(SHD) launched the Healthy Schools Initiative,
which supports the physical and emotional health
of Redwood City students and families. The
PE+ program, operated as a partnership with
the Redwood City Parks and Recreation and
Community Services Department and Peninsula
Community Center, provides planned physical
education and health education instruction
for students that meets the PE standards from
kindergarten through fifth grade at nine schools
in the district. Other Redwood City schools have
kindergarten through fifth-grade PE programs
that are funded with money raised through
donations to parent organizations. The district
provides funding for physical education for sixththrough
eighth-graders.
California requires 200 minutes of physical
education for every 10 days of school for students
in first through sixth grade, but the state does not
provide funding for PE.
“We are so thankful that partners in our
community are helping ensure that our students
get enough physical activity,” said Superintendent
Jan Christensen. “We know that physical activity
and healthy eating helps students achieve
academically, but without outside support we
would not be able to provide such a high quality
program to our students.” The district has not had
funding from the state to pay for PE for years, and
prior to the partnership with Sequoia Healthcare
District, classroom teachers not trained in
physical education were tasked with teaching the
required minutes of PE.
Water First for Thirst Campaign
A key element of physical fitness and health is
adoption of a healthy diet, including beverages.
To encourage students to drink water rather than
Kennedy Middle School Water Study
The district is working in partnership with the
University of California, San Francisco on a
study, due out in June, on providing access
to water at school: “Effect of School Water
Environments on Student’s Beverage Intake”
(UCSF Food Policy Advocates and Changelab
Solutions).
The goal of the current study is to determine
what types of water delivery systems (dispensers,
hydration stations or drinking fountains) are most
effective in increasing student intake of water in
food service areas in middle schools.
In addition, the RCEF received $50,000
from the Coca-Cola Foundation to fund water
fountains/dispensers at nine RCSD schools. The
first water systems will deliver fresh water in the
cafeterias of McKinley and Orion schools by the
spring. Depending on the results of the UCSF
study, Adelante, Fair Oaks, Garfield, Hawes,
Henry Ford, John Gill and Taft will receive
new water fountains or benefit other options to
encourage children to use existing fountains.
The District’s Water First for Thirst campaign educates
students about the benefits of drinking water when
they are thirsty.
The Spectrum 5

As I Was
Saying… Publisher
| Steve Penna
As with most organizations and groups, the
Redwood City–San Mateo County Chamber of
Commerce is going through some major changes
and, considering those changes will affect our
business community and even our political
makeup, I want to take some time to inform you
of some of the issues facing the organization.
After 30 years as the president and CEO,
Larry Buckmaster announced his retirement
effective Jan. 31. His daughter Amy Buckmaster,
the chamber’s vice president of marketing and
programs, has been named interim president.
They have currently begun a search for candidates
to fill the spot, which Amy is interested in
applying for and continuing on with.
First, let’s start with where the organization
is. As CEO, Larry really found his niche, and
what he did, he did very well. He took direction
from the board of directors, implemented the
things they wanted and moved the chamber into
the direction they wanted while focusing on the
items he thought were important for the business
community. At one point the chamber was the
third largest in the Bay Area, with over 1,400
members.
He also started the chamber’s 26-year-old
Leadership Redwood City/Belmont/San Carlos
program. The program has produced close to 800
graduates, filling our communities with informed
and engaged leaders. Many of whom have gone on
to be elected officials. He also started the Kainos
Benefit Golf Tournament, which, over the course
of its history, has raised more than $750,000 for
Kainos. Amazing, if you ask me.
Needless to say, Larry had a very successful
run, and the chamber is still considered one of
the strongest and most influential chambers in the
Bay Area. But, as in all races, having the same
coaching and the same strategy each year without
change can stifle and stall even the greatest of
organizations. Having an active and involved
board of directors is essential to keeping any
organization going strong.
I have been a member of the chamber for
several years and have seen a wide range of
directors. Most are hardworking, involved,
dedicated and serve well. Then there are the ones
whom I have never met or seen at any event.
They seem to be active only to get their name out
there and make it seem like they’re part of the
organization for political reasons or to expand
their own business agendas. Which may be fine;
we all are involved to ultimately support our
businesses. But if that is the sole reason, why
serve as a board member? Let your seat be filled
by someone who will be active and involved and
encourage the membership to do the same.
The board has term limits, but the same types
www.SpectrumMagazine.net
of members always appear to be chosen to be
on the board. Members from big organizations/
companies or who have what is considered to be a
“big name” are generally the case. Unfortunately,
they don’t always have the time to dedicate and
fulfill their obligations. Maybe there should be an
honorary board they could sit on.
Some of the special events hosted by the
chamber have been considered successful over
the years but might need a little refreshing,
considering the business climate change in
Redwood City.
As a member, you are encouraged to attend
the monthly business “mixers.” It is a great
opportunity for members to interact with each
other and promote the business-to-business
philosophy. I consider this one of the most, if not
the most valuable incentive for membership, and
that alone justifies membership fees, which for a
small business like mine is only $275. A different
local business hosts the event each month,
which is another way to get people through
your business’s doors. They even offer potential
members the opportunity to attend these events
twice before joining.
The chamber could do some strong outreach
to the smaller businesses in our community.
The idea to have a small-business committee of
the chamber has been brought up a few times,
and it is now time to do so. It might even be
beneficial for the chamber to have discussions
with the Downtown Business Group on how they
can work together and benefit each other. Both
groups currently have paid membership dues,
and most downtown businesses that get involved
join both. Imagine the advocacy the two groups
could do together on behalf of the small-business
community.
The chamber’s annual dinner is held each
year at Hotel Sofitel in the Redwood Shores
neighborhood. It usually sells out and is a fun
event. But it could be even more so if the venue
or format were changed and a keynote speaker
brought in to make it all less repetitive for
those who attend every year and to attract new
attendees.
This year I was a proud recipient of one of the
awards given at the event, and I can tell you it
is a complete honor to be recognized because it
is a really big deal in the business community.
On a side note, it was also not too shabby being
labeled “Mr. Redwood City” by a California state
senator! It was downright exhilarating and I was
completely humbled from all the accolades given
by so many.
Now on to the Progress Seminar. The annual
event has grown from a small, local event to a Bay
Area–wide event that now regularly attracts more
than 300 attendees each year from San Mateo
County and surrounding Peninsula communities.
Sixty percent represent business and the other 40
percent government and community leaders.
Having all those different types of attendees
gives credibility to the event’s concept of lending
itself to an environment of informal discussions
about regional issues and the opportunities to
meet those issues. There are informative “break
out” sessions. This year some of those sessions
are: 1) Roundtable Dialogue With Your Elected
State Officials, 2) Healthcare Reform 2013 —
Here, now, deal with it, and 3) OMG! They r here!
Engaging Generation X, Y & Z.
The first two topics I have no interest in
whatsoever. In fact, it would be more interesting
to have the elected officials’ discussion with
all local media present so it would not just be
continuous campaign speeches and pats on the
back for all. There is another topic: 4) Why is it
so outrageously difficult to build anything here?
Now that is an interesting topic that deals with
our community directly and in one way or another
affects each of us.
There is also the social aspect of the seminar,
which is also an important component. There
are hosted networking receptions and private,
invitation-only gatherings. Are they fun? Let’s
just say those are my favorite part of attending
when I have. These relaxed settings give people
the opportunity to get to know each other in a
different manner and also create new bonds and
relationships (also called networking). Priceless.
So basically, this event is the type that gives our
chamber exposure, prominence and exclusivity.
“The Progress Seminar has always been the
ultimate networking experience. I can get access
to so many of the people I need to interact with in
my business, and all during one pleasurable yet
informative weekend, that through the years it’s
just proven to be invaluable!” says Alyn Beals,
president and CEO of Beals Martin Inc.
The biggest concern I and others have with this
event is that it is held in Monterey and thus takes
sales and hotel tax dollars that could be spent
here somewhere else. The chamber justifies the
location by stating that if the event were held here
and attendees did not have to lodge, they might
not attend all sessions and events and just pass
them up for convenience. I see that point, but
more importantly I wish the chamber could point
to successes of the seminar in bringing business
opportunities and companies to Redwood City,
thus creating commerce and/or tax dollars. That is
showing success and really justifies not holding it
in our community or county.
(continues on page 28)

Be a Part of the “Stampede” and
Help Local Sports Programs
By Julie McCoy, contributing writer
If you live in or near Redwood City, you won’t want to miss this year’s
Sequoia Stampede, a 5K run/walk in which families, neighbors, students,
athletes and businesses come together to raise money for Sequoia High
School’s athletic programs.
To be held at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 13, the Stampede takes place in the
neighborhood around the Sequoia High School.
The terrain is suitable for people of all ages and abilities, emphasized
Gordon Bliss, owner of Mobius Fit health club on Woodside Road in
Redwood City, who has organized the event for the past three years.
Children as young as 5 have been able to walk alongside their parents, and
children who are even younger have been able to participate in the event in
strollers, Bliss noted.
“It’s fairly flat,” he said. “There are two little hills. People do it all the time.
It’s really cool.”
Seven hundred people participated in the Stampede last year, and the goal
this year is to attract 800 to 850 people, according to Bliss.
“It’s a great community event,” commented Sequoia High School Principal
Bonnie Hansen. “A lot of people from the local community participate. A
lot of people come out and watch people run. In addition to being a nice
fundraiser, it’s a nice community builder.”
It costs $5,000 to put on the Stampede, according to Bliss. Last year,
the Stampede raised $30,000 after expenses. The goal this year is to raise
$35,000 after expenses.
The money will go toward Sequoia Sports Boosters, a parent organization
that raises money to bridge the gap between what Sequoia’s athletic
program receives from the school district and what it needs to be strong and
successful. Sequoia Sports Boosters will then give the money to Sequoia
High School to use for its athletic programs.
The funding will pay for such things as uniforms and equipment for
student athletes, and their transportation to and from events. The school
district typically starts to run out of money for transportation during the
second half of the school year, according to Bliss. “We’re picking up where
the district can no longer do it,” he explained.
Without the funding it receives from the Stampede, Sequoia’s athletic
department would be compromised, Hansen emphasized.
“It’s huge,” she said. “I don’t know what we would do without it and just
the work of the [Sequoia Sports] Boosters in general … We would not be able
to run the athletic program we have been able to run.”
Bliss begins planning for the Stampede in November and puts in 150 hours
of work prior to the event. He is there as early as 3:30 a.m. the day of the event.
There are about 60 volunteers at the Stampede, who work a minimum of
four hours. Some volunteers work up to eight or nine hours.
“It is a community-involved event,” Bliss noted. “That is one of the things
that is most fun about it.”
Everyone who participates in the Stampede receives a T-shirt.
You can tie an electronic chip on your shoes that will let you know when
you started, when you finished and the amount of time it took you to complete
the course. If you are on Facebook, the device will also post a message on
your Facebook page to let others know that you finished the event.
One new feature of the Stampede this year is that the event will have food
trucks, with food and concessions, Bliss noted.
Additionally, the Stampede is partnering with Ford Motor Co., which will
bring 10 Ford cars.
For every person who test-drives a car, Ford will contribute $20 to the
Stampede’s fundraising efforts, up to $6,000, Bliss explained. “They’re [Ford
is] doing most of the work,” Bliss explained. “We’re excited. We haven’t done
this one before, but it sounds exciting to us.”
Also new this year, Shoe Rafiki, an organization at Sequoia High School
that collects new and gently used shoes and sends them to Third World
countries, will have a booth with a donation box. The American Cancer
Society also will have booth with a donation box.
How did the Sequoia Stampede get started?
A few years ago, Bliss saw that an event called the Big Bear Run was
successful in raising money for Menlo-Atherton High School athletics. He
suggested to Sequoia Sports Boosters, of which he is a member, that a similar
event be implemented at Sequoia High School. “They were successful with it.
I thought, why not reinvent the wheel,” he said.
And thus, in 2011, the Stampede was born.
Bliss’ twin 18-year-old daughters, Alyssa and Alex, are seniors at Sequoia
High School and have been involved in sports all four years at the school. They
both currently participate in cross-country running and varsity track and field.
The Stampede “raises money for all sports [at Sequoia High School],”
Alyssa Bliss pointed out. “It’s an event that everyone can participate in. It
strengthens the team feeling in our sports programs. It’s like a one-one time
thing. People prepare for it and practice.”
Alex Bliss added, “I’m glad that my dad came up with this idea. It’s just really
cool at the end of the day when you see everybody smiling and out of breath.”
Redwood General Tire has been a sponsor of the Sequoia Stampede since it
started. “It helps the community,” commented owner Alpio
Barbara. “It helps Sequoia High School. It’s
the only one [the only high school] in the
city. Sequoia is just an institution. It’s [the
Stampede is] a grassroots event. I live in
Redwood City. I work in Redwood City. It’s a
good way for me to give back.”
Whether you run or whether you walk,
whether you’re in good shape or not, it’s
worth heading to this year’s Sequoia
Stampede. You’ll have a great time and
feel good knowing that you’re not only
getting some exercise but also supporting the Sequoia High
School athletics program.
Interested?
What: Sequoia Stampede | When: Saturday, April 13, at 9 a.m.
Where: Sequoia High School, 1201 Brewster Ave.
Cost: $30 for adults, $15 for students
www.seqstampede.com
Registration form on Page 30

Cultural Events
San Mateo County
History Museum
2200 Broadway St., Redwood City
650-299-0141
www.historysmc.org
Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
$5 for adults, $3 for seniors and students,
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.
Presentation on the First Lady of the Peninsula
On April 13 at 1 p.m., the San Mateo County
History Museum will present the Burlingame
Historical Society’s Joanne Garrison, who
will give a talk, “There Was Something About
Agnes,” describing the life of Agnes Poett,
who participated in the founding of San Mateo,
Burlingame and Hillsborough. Early deaths,
disasters, murder and unusual romances are
all part of this thrice-married Chilean beauty’s
remarkable life story. Garrison is author of the
book Burlingame Centennial: 1908–2008.
A Conversation With Rose Jacobs Gibson
The San Mateo County History Museum will
present a conversation with Rose Jacobs Gibson
at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 23. Jacobs Gibson
will participate in a question-and-answer session
with Museum Director Mitch Postel. The public
is invited to attend and join in this conversation
that is part of Women’s History Month. Jacobs
Gibson, who retired from office in 2012, became
the first African American member of the San
Mateo County Board of Supervisors. Questions
will explore her early life, her experience as an
East Palo Alto city councilwoman and her years
as a supervisor. The program is free with the price
of admission to the museum: $5 for adults and $3
for seniors and students. This program is part of
the museum’s “Courthouse Docket” series and is
sponsored by Cypress Lawn Heritage Foundation.
Go to www.historysmc.org for more information
or call 650-299-0104.
Ongoing Exhibits:
• “Honoring Steve Jobs.’’ A new addition to the
museum’s permanent exhibits honors the late
Steve Jobs with displays featuring an original
1988 NeXT computer, part of the company that
Jobs founded in Redwood City when he left
Apple in the 1980s for a time. A variety of other
objects, including books, brochures and more,
are also on display.
• “Land of Opportunity: The Immigrant
Experience in San Mateo County.’’ This
exhibition tells the stories of the diverse
people who came to the area. It highlights the
experiences of the early immigrant groups
— Chinese, Japanese, Irish, Italians and
Portuguese — in the late 1800s.
• “San Mateo County History Makers:
Entrepreneurs Who Changed the World.”
Visitors are invited to review biographies of
such innovators as A.P. Giannini (who created
the Bank of America and lived in San Mateo)
and other entrepreneurs whose innovations have
left a substantial impact.
Fox Theatre and Club Fox
2209 Broadway, downtown Redwood City
Tickets available at www.clubfoxrwc.com,
tickets.foxrwc.com, 650-369-7770 or
877-435-9849
Fox Theatre
• Tainted Love. March 23.
• In the Mood: A 1940s Big Band/Swing Musical.
March 24.
Club Fox
• World Wide Dance Party: Will Magid Trio,
Baba Ken Okulolo, RAFA. 8:30 p.m. Friday,
March 1. $20.
• Pop Fiction. 9 p.m. Saturday, March 2. $22.
• Big Cat Tolefree (Club Fox Blues Jam). 7 p.m.
Wednesday, March 6. $5.
• Salsa, Bachata, Merengue and Cha Cha Cha
(DJ). 9 p.m. Friday, March 8. $10.
• Bay Area Tributes 10 Year Anniversary with
Damage Inc., All Star Jam, Lovedrive. 8 p.m.
Saturday, March 9. $12.
• Wild Child — A Live Recreation of a 1960s
Doors Concert. 7 p.m. Sunday, March 10. $18.
• Paula Harris (Club Fox Blues Jam). 7 p.m.
Wednesday, March 13. $5.
• The Cheeseballs. 9 p.m. Friday, March 15. $18.
• Daniel Castro (Club Fox Blues Jam). 7 p.m.
Wednesday, March 20. $5.
• Live Salsa, Bachata, Merengue and Cha Cha
Cha with Candela. 9 p.m. Friday, March 22. $15.
• Pride & Joy. 9 p.m. Saturday, March 23. $18.
• Raising the Roof Concert for the Blues Hall of
Fame Museum. 1 p.m. & 4 p.m. Sunday, March
24. $15.
• The Best Intentions — Motown Review. 8:30
p.m. Friday, March 29. $13.
• Zoo Station & Petty Theft. 9 p.m. Saturday,
March 30. $15.
Woodside High School Presents
“Legally Blonde the Musical”
Fridays, March 8 & 15, 8 p.m.
Saturdays, March 9 & 16, 8 p.m.
Sunday, March 10, 2 p.m.
Order tickets online at
www.whsdramaboosters.com or call the
box office at 650-367-9750, ext. 4851
This totally upbeat musical tells the story of
Delta Nu sorority sister Elle Woods. Don’t let
this seemingly ditsy fashionista fool you; this
girl is totally focused, smarter than she seems,
and doesn’t take “no” for an answer. So when
her boyfriend dumps her for someone “more
serious,” Elle sets out to win him back by putting
down the credit card and hitting the books. Ready
to revamp her image, Elle, with her Chihuahua
Bruiser, goes where no Delta Nu has gone before:
Harvard Law School! Along the way, our heroine
proves that being yourself and going after what
you want never goes out of style.
11th Annual Diamond Awards
Peninsula Arts Council Lauds Redwood
City Citizens for Their Contributions to
the Arts
The 11th annual Diamond Awards celebration
went off without a hitch as many of San Mateo
County’s arts luminaries gathered to celebrate
the 2012 Diamond Award honorees: Amanda
Odasz, Sean Traynor, Dr. Bryan Baker, Maureen
(continues on page 24)
The Spectrum 9

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us out... Bring in this ad for
a one week pass.
Must be 18 or over and must not of
used a pass to Mobius Fit before.
1709 Woodside Road
Redwood City, CA 94061
www.mobiusfit.com
650-365-3300

Kainos/Peninsula sunrise rotary Club
irish night
at the Veteran’s MeMorial building - 1455 Madison aVenue - redwood
City
saturday, MarCh 16th
tiCKets - $45 Per Person -
all inClusiVe
For tiCKets go to:
httP://irishnight.MyeVent.CoM/
5:00 - haPPy hour
beer & wine
silent auCtion drawing
6:30 - liVe auCtion &
traditional irish dinner
(Vegetarian oPtion with adVanCe notiCe)
Major eVent underwriter
san Mateo Credit union
hosted by the Peninsula sunrise rotary Club
beneFiting Kainos hoMe & training Center & other loCal Charities
For More inForMation ContaCt Kainos 650.363.2423

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 even have free Wi-Fi
Internet hookups so you can work while you wait
for your vehicle to be serviced.
Eating and Catering:
Arya Global Cuisine — 885 Middlefield Road
– Redwood City’s new “it” restaurant lives up to
its name, serving Italian, American and Persian
food. “We loved the whole concept of Italian and
Persian food. We tried the chicken kabob and Pollo
Firenze. And wow — the food was great. Our server
gave us a good suggestion in white wine to go
with our dinner. Can’t wait to bring my friends in
for lunch!”
Canyon Inn – 587 Canyon Road – Tim Harrison
and the staff at Canyon Inn serve everything from
their famous hamburgers to pizzas, all kinds of
sandwiches and pastas, and South-of-the-Border
specialties while various sports play on the big,
flat-screen TVs. Don’t forget to reserve their
closed patio for your next party — it has heaters,
fans and a big-screen TV (no extra charges). Why
cook when you don’t have to? They do catering
too for all occasions!
D. Tequila Lounge and Restaurant – 851 Main St.
– “We went there and it was fabulous! We were
impressed by their food menu, and the burger I
had was tasty. They have 21 big-screen TVs for
watching your favorite sports team, having a
drink with friends or dancing the night away.”
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
The Sandwich Spot – 2420 Broadway – With
a motto promising to change your life “one
sandwich at a time” and a menu and atmosphere
www.SpectrumMagazine.net
that has already made it a popular spot in
downtown Redwood City, the Sandwich Spot will
have you wondering where this place has been all
your life, and whether or not you can get some of
their signature Bomb Sauce to go.
Financial Institutions:
San Mateo Credit Union – Three Redwood City
locations – As a member-driven organization,
SMCU does everything possible to ensure that
all of your financial priorities are anticipated and
fulfilled. Offerings include free auto-shopping
assistance, members-only car sales, low-rate
home loans and lines of credit. Call 650-363-1725
or 888-363-1725, or visit a branch to learn the
advantages of membership banking.
Home Improvements:
Lewis Carpet Cleaners – 1-800-23-LEWIS – Founded
in 1985, Lewis Carpet Cleaners has grown from
one small, portable machine to a company of six
employees and five working vans. The Lewis
family works and lives in Redwood City and is
committed to our community. Ask about their
Spectrum special: Get 100 square feet of carpet
cleaned for absolutely nothing. Call today! Get
your home ready for entertaining during the year.
Legal Services:
Hannig Law Firm – 2991 El Camino Real –
Hannig Law Firm LLP provides transactional and
litigation expertise in a variety of areas. The
professionals at HLF are committed to knowing
and meeting their clients’ needs through long-term
relationships and value-added services, and to
supporting and participating in the communities
where they live and work.
Real Estate:
Michelle Glaubert
at Coldwell Banker –
650-722-1193 – Michelle has
been a full-time, top-producing
real estate agent since 1978. With
a proven track record, she has
helped buyers achieve their
dreams of home ownership and sellers make
successful moves to their next properties. The
majority of her business is garnered through referrals
from her many satisfied clients. Living in Emerald
Hills, she knows the area well and is involved
in the community. Count on Michelle’s years of
experience to guide you through your next real estate
transaction. Visit her online at www.glaubert.com.
John Nelson at Coldwell Banker – 650-566-5315
– John has been a resident of Redwood City for
21 years and has been a real estate agent for 18
years. He is known for doing his clients’ legwork,
keeping them up to date with new listings and
conditions as they impact the market. He will make
the process as pleasurable and stress-free an experience
for you as he can. Let John guide you through the
complexities of buying or selling your home,
eliminating hassles and stress. Visit him online at
www.johnnelsonhomes.com.
Vicky Costantini at Sequoia Realty –
650-430-8425 – Born and raised in Redwood
City, Vicky is known for her honesty and
availability. She believes those qualities foster
strong working relationships with her clients.
In turn, those same clients have referred her to
countless friends and relatives. With an approach
that is simple yet effective, she treats every listing
as if it is her first, and her clients know that they
will get the very best effort as they enter into the
purchase or sale of a home. Visit her online at
www.vickycostantini.com.
Specialty Businesses:
Davies Appliance – 1580 El Camino Real –
“Davies helped me with my appliance purchases
and they know what they are doing. All they
carry is appliances; you don’t have to worry about
anything else. Leave it to them to assist you with
your kitchen remodel and you will be very happy.
I recommend Davies to anyone who is interested
in great pricing and even better service. The focus
is appliances and service.”
Every Woman Health Club – 611 Jefferson Ave. –
A women-only, body-positive 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 to get started.
Hector Flamenco Insurance (State Farm) – 956
Main St. – Hector has been in the insurance
business and with State Farm for 20 years. He
specializes in auto and business insurance. A local
resident, he also provides servicio en español!
Visit his website at www.flamencoinsurance.com.
Saf Keep Storage – 2480 Middlefield Road – The
friendly and reliable team at Saf Keep is ready
to assist you with a variety of storage products
and services to suit all your storage needs. Visit
their website at www.safkeepstorage.com to see
exactly what products and services are available.
Compare them to other facilities and you’ll see
why their service makes the difference.
St. Regal Jewelers – 850 Main St. – “This is a
great jeweler! Phil, the owner, is amazing. He
crafted a ring on time and on budget. He has an
incredible eye for detail. I can’t say enough. I
would never go anywhere else.” Whether you are
looking for men’s or women’s quality jewelry,
shopping local does not get better than this.
Woodside Terrace – 485 Woodside Road, 650-
366-3900 – Woodside Terrace understands that
in choosing a senior living community, residents
are looking for much more than a comfortable
living environment to call home. Brookdale
Living’s Redwood City community delivers
inspired independent living with the promise of
exceptional experiences every day. As residents’
needs change, they are provided with a variety of
ancillary services and a personalized assisted living
environment that encourages them to continue to
live as they please.

Events Around Town Redwood City–San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner 2013
Proclaiming Spectrum Magazine owner and publisher Steve Penna “Mr. Redwood City,” state Sen. Jerry Hill recognized the contribution of business to education as Penna received
the Redwood City chamber’s Golden Apple Award this year for his commitment to local education at the Redwood City–San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce 115th Annual
Dinner at Sofitel Hotel.
The Golden Apple recognizes people in the business community who strive to make a difference in city schools. Nominated by Jo-Ann Sockolov, executive director of the Redwood City
Education Foundation, Penna was recognized not only for the support he has given to the RCEF, but also for his work with many organizations “as a key partner in advancing
opportunities for all the students of Redwood City’s school districts.”
“Golden Apple Award recipient Steve Penna exemplifies what great partnerships with the business community can accomplish,” said County Supervisor Don Horsley, who also
attended the sold-out event.
Other awards of the night included “Woman of the Year” to Lourdes Carini from San Mateo Credit Union and “Persons of the Year” to Greg Greenway, executive director of the
Seaport Industrial Association, and Jim Bigelow, owner of Bay Area Transportation and Housing Associates.
Pictured above (left to right, from top): former Mayor Diane Howard, Cañada College’s Maggie Souza, Mayor Alicia Aguirre, Councilman Jeff Ira, Memo Morantes, local businessmen
Frank Bartaldo and Alpio Barbara, Gino Gasparini from Recology, Golden Apple winner Steve Penna, Woman of the Year Lourdes Carini, Greg Greenway and Jim Bigelow —
Persons of the Year.
A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE YOUR
COMMUNITY! ONE SEAT IS AVAILABLE ON THE
REDWOOD CITY PARKS, RECREATION &
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION
TO APPLY: WWW.REDWOODCIITY.ORG/CLERKS
APPLIICATIION DEADLIINE:
5 PM MONDAY MARCH 25 TTH , 2013
The City of Redwood City invites knowledgeable, motivated, committed,
and collaborative community members to apply for one open seat on
the Parks, Recreation & Community Services Commission. You’ll bring
fresh perspectives and ideas, and contribute to the City’s discussions
and decisions on a variety of important issues affecting the community.
This seat will be appointed by the City Council,
and expires on May 31, 2014.
WWW. .RREEDDWOODDCCI ITTYY. .ORRG//CCLLEERRKKSS
CCAALLLL 665500- -778800- -77222200 FFOORR MOORREE INNFFOORRMAATTI I IIOONN

Redwood City Martial Arts
a “Factory for Building
Champions”
By Julie McCoy, contributing writer

Students at Redwood City Martial Arts are training with the best.
In late January, the studio — which operates out of
Powerhouse Gym at 2075 Broadway St. — received a
“Best School” award at the Golden Gate Open Taekwondo
Tournament in San Anselmo.
“Out of all the schools there, we took home the most medals
— seven gold and one silver,” said Greg Escolta, who heads Redwood City
Martial Arts. “This validated [that] the quality of our teaching is very good.
My kids won. I’ve had some kids who have been training with me only a few
months who have participated.”
Junior World Taekwondo champion
In addition to the studio’s recently receiving a “Best School” designation,
Escolta’s son, Geremy, 17, who trains with Redwood City Martial Arts,
received a gold medal in the 2012 Junior World Championships in South
Korea last July.
“So far, it’s my biggest accomplishment,” the younger Escolta said. “It was
great to be able to go out of the country and be able to compete at the highest level.”
The gold medal from the Junior World Championships hangs in his room.
The Junior World Championships featured teams from 68 different countries.
“It was always his goal to win a major international competition,” his father noted.
When a tournament is coming up, Geremy Escolta trains four to five hours
a day, in the morning and after school.
Before going to South Korea, he told his father, “It’s my time, Dad. I’ve
trained so hard.”
Geremy Escolta went to South Korea by himself. It was the first time Greg
“If you want to be the best, you have
to train like you want to be the best.”
Escolta had been unable to watch his son compete. It was nerve-wracking
having his son on the other side of the world by himself, and learning that
some of his teammates had been injured didn’t make it any better, he said,
noting that it was “the worst two weeks of my life.”
Even with a Junior World Championship under his belt, Geremy Escolta
hungers for more and aspires to go further.
His next goal is to go to the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. “Once
you’re at Olympic level, that’s the highest you can take your career,” he said.
Always been around taekwondo
Geremy Escolta — who is of Filipino descent with influences from Spain,
Denmark and Sweden — has always been around taekwondo.
In fact, the day he first came home from the hospital, he was taken to meet
his older brother, Gregory, at taekwondo lessons, he said. He officially started
taekwondo at age 3.
In addition to studying taekwondo, Geremy Escolta is team captain for the
Sequoia High School Wrestling Team.
World champion is in many ways a typical teen
Outside of school and athletics, he enjoys doing typical teenage things like
hanging out with his friends, going to movies and playing video games.
He manages to find a good balance between sports, school and friends, he
noted. “I’ve been doing it for a while, so I’m used to it. I’ve got a routine down.”
Helping other students become champions, too
Redwood City Martial Arts strives to help its other martial arts students
become champions, just like Geremy Escolta.
In fact, six students from the studio happen to be going to the Junior and
Senior Olympic Taekwondo National Championships in Chicago July 3
through July 9.
“It is my goal to produce the greatest citizens Redwood City has ever
produced,” Greg Escolta said.
He added, “We’re a very, very good school. I like to think of it as a factory
for building champions.”
Redwood City Martial Arts has classes for both youth and adults. Students
range in age from 3 to 33.
Students expected to keep their grades up
Youth are expected to earn good grades in their classes at school while
they’re with Redwood City Martial Arts. Escolta looks at their transcripts
and if they have below a B in any of their classes, he has them concentrate on
their schoolwork instead of martial arts.
Building self-confidence,
learning respect and discipline
Those who study martial arts not only get exercise but also gain self-esteem
and learn respect and discipline, noted Escolta, who has 40 years of martial
arts experience, including 20 years of taekwondo experience.
You’re never too old
You’re never too old to learn martial arts, Escolta emphasized. He provides
private lessons to a man who is 65 and knows of people in their 90s who are
still training.
A unique hybrid
Escolta describes his style of martial arts as “a hybrid of kempo karate,
taekwondo, kickboxing and wrestling.”
No need to call him master
Students refer to Escolta as Mr. Escolta, not master. Escolta is stern, but he
has a soft side, too. “I want to be approachable,” he said. “I don’t want them
to be afraid of me, but I want them to respect me.”
Quitting not an option
At Redwood City Martial Arts, quitting isn’t an option. Shortcuts aren’t
allowed either.
“If you want to be the best, you have to train like you want to be the best,”
Escolta said. “There’s no mediocrity here. There’s no shortcuts here. If [you]
take a shortcut, you’re the one that’s going to be on the receiving end of being
knocked out.”
Helping youth with special needs learn,
enjoy martial arts
Escolta has helped youth with special needs learn and enjoy martial arts.
“I have kids with various difficulties and I have been able to reach all of
them,” he said.
One of those students is Dillin Barganski, 12, a sixth-grader at Charles
Armstrong School in Belmont, who has dyslexia and ADHD, or attention
deficit hyperactivity disorder.
“I like that he’s really tough on us to do good,” Dillin said. “He makes us feel like
we’re the star of the class. He keeps you up and doesn’t let your head hang low.”
Despite having special needs, Dillin has always been treated like
everybody else, he said.
“He teaches you like you’re everybody else,” Dillin said. “He treats us
together like a family. He’s really nice to everybody.” Dillin said Escolta
“makes you feel good inside about who you are.”
Dillin, whose parents are divorced, said that, “Geremy is like an older
brother to me. Mr. Escolta is like the dad I didn’t have.”
Dillin’s mom, Lisa Picchi, who is a single mom, said it’s been great
knowing her son has the support of the Escoltas.
She likes that Greg Escolta “teaches the entire child. He’s making them
champion kids in every area.”
Every kid, whether they’re a white belt or a black belt, leaves there thinking
they’re black belts, Picchi said. “They all walk away feeling like a champion.”
(continues on next page)

Redwood City Martial Arts a “Factory for Building Champions”
(continued from previous page)
www.SpectrumMagazine.net
Picchi and her son live in Foster City, but she doesn’t mind making the long
commute to Redwood City because her son loves the Escoltas and martial
arts so much and is doing so well, she said.
Some turn to martial arts
because they’ve been bullied
Greg Escolta has had a handful of youth get involved with martial arts because
they were being bullied at school.
“I helped beef up their self-esteem and self-confidence and they were able
to compete in tournaments and win,” he said. “I see how it has helped my
students first-hand with the bullying problem.”
Powerhouse Gym owner Rob Suelflohn’s daughter, Whitney, 13, used to have
a problem with bullying, but it has gone away now that’s she’s participating in
Redwood City Martial Arts, Suelflohn said.
“She has gained so much confidence that the bullying thing went away
immediately just from her own confidence,” Suelflohn said. “Now she has
aspirations and she wants bigger things.”
In half a year, his daughter went from not doing martial arts at all to being
one of the gold medal winners at the Golden Gate Open in San Anselmo.
“In six months, for her to have done what she has done is unheard of. Greg
is really different. He’s a very intuitive coach.”
Interested?
Redwood City Martial Arts holds classes for youth at Powerhouse Gym,
2075 Broadway St., on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 4 p.m.
to 5 p.m. Space is available and you can come in for a free trial lesson.
Cardiokickboxing classes also are available for adults at Powerhouse Gym on
Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. For more information,
call Greg Escolta at 650-306-2260 or email him at gescolta@gmail.com.

Community Interest
City Hires Assistant City Manager
After a significant, in-depth recruiting process, Redwood City announced
today the hiring of Ms. Audrey Ramberg as the city’s assistant city manager.
Ramberg was most recently senior advisor and project leader for the County
of San Mateo and brings with her a great deal of experience in the wideranging
field of municipal management. She will start work in Redwood City
on March 18.
“I’m very pleased to welcome Audrey to Redwood City. I know she’ll
excel as a crucial member of our executive team,” said City Manager Bob
Bell. “Audrey offers Redwood City a wide range of experience and success
in every aspect of municipal management and a great combination of skills,
talent and knowledge. She beat out over 100 candidates in what was a very
competitive process.”
Ramberg has over 22 years of experience in public service and holds an
M.B.A. from Stanford University as well as a B.A. in political science and
economics from Duke University.
“Redwood City is really an excellent fit with my experience and interests,
and I believe I can bring a lot of value to the organization,” said Ramberg. “I
want to work with people who thrive on continuous improvement, who take
very seriously their commitment to the community and who are proud of the
excellent services they provide — and that describes the people who work
for Redwood City. I’m truly looking forward to joining the ongoing efforts of
Redwood City as it moves forward in so many ways.”
In addition to serving as a key resource for leading and facilitating strategic
planning and citywide process improvement initiatives, in this newly created
position Ramberg will oversee the city’s human resources and public information
functions, along with the operations of the city manager’s office. She will also
serve in the city manager’s absence.
Prior to her most recent work with San Mateo County, Ramberg held a number
of key positions in local government, including assistant city manager in Menlo
Park, assistant to the city manager in Palo Alto and assistant to the San Mateo
County manager. She has also worked in a high-level consulting capacity and was
founder/director of Peninsula Partnership for Children, Youth and Families.
Cañada College Introduces African Wasp
to Help Control the Olive Fruit Fly
significant portion of its history attached to or within a single host organism.
The exploration took researchers to South Africa, Namibia, India, China and
other countries. Scientists shipped a number of parasitoids to California and
studied them in quarantine before identifying two — Psyttalia lounsburyi
and Psyttalia humilis — that have been released throughout the state’s olive
growing region. Both species were released at Cañada in 2010–11. “These
wasps are specialists,” Nieto said. “They have co-evolved with the olive fruit
fly and are well-suited to utilize the fruit fly larvae for reproduction.”
The wasps are very small and look like little ants with wings. They are
also incapable of stinging people. And while they pose no threat to people or
animals, they pose a major threat to olive fruit flies.
Female wasps deposit eggs into a fruit fly maggot inside of an olive. The
egg hatches into a smaller larva that feeds internally on the maggot. After this maggot
pupates, instead of a fly emerging, a wasp emerges to seek out additional maggots.
Since the wasps were released on campus, Nieto and his students have been
monitoring the progress of the little African wasp. “Cañada College is one
of only two sites in the state where Psyttalia lounsburyi has been recovered
for two consecutive years,” Nieto said. “This is encouraging, but several
challenges exist and could still derail this project.”
Nieto said the wasp population is dependent on the density of the fruit fly
population so, as the fruit fly population shrinks, so do the densities of the wasps.
“The wasps will not completely eliminate the pest,” he said. “Instead, our
project strives to reduce the olive fruit fly population in regions outside of
commercial production. That includes olive trees that are used for landscaping,
located in preserved open space or in residential areas that are not managed
and thereby act as a pest reservoir, capable of reinfesting commercial olive
groves annually.”
Cañada has partnered with UC Berkeley, UC Riverside, the California
Department of Food and Agriculture and the United States Department of
Agriculture on this project. A scientific paper describing the work will soon
be submitted to the journal Environmental Entomology.
The college also received funding from the San Mateo County Community
College District Trustees Fund to help integrate the research into the Biology
110 curriculum at Cañada.
“Students collectively generate hypotheses, design experimental protocols,
collect olives, rear out insects, graph results and write a paper describing the
project,” Nieto said. “Having hundreds of these trees on campus provides
instructors and students wonderful learning opportunities that are literally
steps away from the classroom. While I’m still in the process of refining this
curriculum, I think it’s a wonderful example of how undergraduate students
can participate meaningfully in active research.”
Redwood City Fire Department’s
“Fire Protection Rating” Improves
A small African wasp that is the natural enemy of the olive fruit fly appears
to be gaining a toehold in the olive trees on the campus of Cañada College in
Redwood City which could bring good news to California’s olive growers.
Diego Nieto, an adjunct biology professor at the college, and students in
Biology 110 are part of a statewide effort to find a way to control the olive
fruit fly, whose larvae feed on the fruit of olive trees and is considered a serious
pest. California produces more than 95 percent of the olives grown in the U.S.
The olive fruit fly was first discovered in California in 1998 and was
later found in San Mateo County in 2001. California is the only area in the
Western Hemisphere where the olive fruit fly has been found. Scientists
discovered that natural predators in California were largely ineffective in
controlling the spread of the fruit fly.
“The olive fruit fly is in the family Tephrididae, which is home to several
serious agriculture pests, including the Mediterranean fruit fly, Mexican fruit
fly and Oriental fruit fly,” said Nieto. “These flies are capable of utilizing ripening fruit
for oviposition, which makes them especially damaging to fruit production.
The fruit flies we commonly encounter, on the other hand, are in the family
Drosophilidae and are only capable of laying eggs in overripe fruit.”
The widespread and rapid establishment of the olive fruit fly in California
led to a worldwide search for parasitoids, an organism that spends a
The Redwood City Fire Department announced that after extensive evaluation,
its fire-protection services, as rated by an insurance industry advisory
company, improved from a Class 3 to a Class 2.
The classification by Insurance Services Office Inc. (ISO), known as the
Public Protection Classification (PPC) program, assesses the fire-protection
efforts in a particular community. The Redwood City Fire Department was
graded on communications, water supply, operations, training, and fire
prevention codes and programs. The department received an overall score of
89.27 out of a possible 100 total points. This new rating places the department
in the top 1 percent safest of all U.S. municipal rated fire departments.
“Our recent evaluation indicates the commitment made by our City Council,
city management, the Redwood City Water Division and San Mateo County’s
public safety communications,” said Fire Chief James Skinner. “We are extremely
proud and dedicated to be providing the best services to our community.”
ISO collects information on municipal fire-protection efforts in
communities throughout the United States. In each of those communities,
ISO analyzes the relevant data using its Fire Suppression Rating Schedule (FSRS).
The company then assigns a Public Protection Classification from 1 to 10.
Class 1 generally represents superior property fire protection, and Class 10 indicates
that the area’s fire-suppression program doesn’t meet ISO’s minimum criteria.
By classifying communities’ ability to suppress fires, ISO helps the communities
(continues on next page)
The Spectrum 19

Community Interest (Continued from previous page)
evaluate their public fire-protection services. The program provides an objective,
nationwide standard that helps fire departments in planning and budgeting
for facilities, equipment and training. And by securing lower fire insurance
premiums for communities with better public protection, the PPC program
provides incentives and rewards for communities that choose to improve their
firefighting services.
ISO provides statistical, actuarial, underwriting, claims and related information
and analyses to insurers, reinsurers, agents, insurance regulators and other government
agencies. For more information, visit the ISO mitigation website at www.isomitigation.com.
Redwood City Police Department Announces
Enhanced School Safety Plan
The Redwood City police and fire departments announced an enhanced school
safety plan for Redwood City schools.
Weeks prior to several tragic school shootings that have occurred throughout
the country, the Redwood City Police Department began devising a new strategy
to better safeguard our city’s school campuses. The regrettable events that have
garnered national attention act as a reminder of the importance and priority
that such preparedness planning deserves.
Consequently, the Police Department remains resolute in effectively implementing
a comprehensive, multiphase preparedness plan that will include the collaborative
training of school staff and culminate in a large-scale preparedness exercise involving
the Redwood City police and fire departments, school staff and other stakeholder
agencies. The department is committed to implementing this plan and undertaking
this exercise within this year. The specific components of this plan include:
•
•
•
•
On-site safety lectures will be presented to the staff of all school sites by
departmental subject-matter experts. This training, commonly referred to
as Code Red or the Campus Lockdown Protocol, will instruct all school
staff members on how to immediately respond to campus threats as they
await the response of police officers.
A drill will be facilitated by departmental personnel, during which the learning
points of the lecture will be demonstrated and ultimately employed by school staff.
The department will refine existing departmental emergency response
contingency plans and training levels to bolster its ability to respond
effectively to extraordinary tactical events, such as those that may occur on
school campuses and large business complexes.
The department will collaborate to develop synchronized response plans
in conjunction with the Redwood City Fire Department and other identified
stakeholders such as local hospitals and public safety agencies in
neighboring cities.
Completed plans will incorporate the successful execution of an allinclusive
tactical exercise that will be held on a school campus during 2013.
In addition to preparing for such extraordinary events, the Redwood
City Police Department is committed to examining all opportunities for
the prevention of campus-based violence. Accordingly, the department is
undertaking the following steps to protect the youngest, most defenseless
children in our middle and elementary schools:
•
Redwood City police officials will be meeting with all school sites
in the city to review security plans and make any needed additional
recommendations.
Redwood City dayshift patrol officers will meet with the administrators
of each elementary and middle school in their respective patrol beats to
establish a good working relationship with the school administrators.
Dayshift patrol officers will conduct a walk-through of each elementary
school in their respective patrol beats in order to become familiar with the
school layout to more quickly and effectively respond in an emergency.
This will also allow officers to gain a better working knowledge of
the school schedules and become familiar with the school grounds and
surrounding areas.
When call volume permits, dayshift patrol officers will stop by each elementary
school in their respective patrol beats at least one time during each school
day in order to more proactively ensure school safety.
These collaborative measures will afford us the greatest opportunity to reduce
•
•
•
the potential threats to our school-aged youth and educational professionals.
At the same time, optimization of our existing response protocols and preparedness
will serve us well in minimizing the threat to life during these types of events.
Redwood City Police and Fire Departments Announce
Town Hall Meetings and “Coffee With the Cops”
In January of this year, the Redwood City police and fire departments announced
a collaboration to prevent violence and enhance safety at neighborhood schools.
The comprehensive plan included synchronizing response procedures between
the two departments in addition to training school staff regarding protocols
for sheltering in place or responding to violent intruders on campus. The positive
response to the initiative from those involved was overwhelming.
In an effort to expand the benefits of this groundbreaking initiative to the
greater community, the police and fire departments will be hosting a series
of town hall–style community meetings. The theme of this year’s town hall
meetings is “residents and public safety working in partnership to improve
our neighborhoods.”
One meeting per quarter will be held during 2013, beginning in March, at
varied locations throughout the city. The town hall meetings will be facilitated
by members of the police and fire departments. Residents will hear formal
presentations about programs and services offered by each department and
participate in a facilitated discussion to voice their concerns about public safety
issues in their community.
In addition to the town hall meetings, the Police Department will continue
its popular “Coffee With the Cops” events. Coffee With the Cops is a program
implemented by the Redwood City Police Department in an effort to enhance
communication between community members and the Police Department.
Coffee With the Cops is an informal event designed to allow citizens the
opportunity to ask questions and learn about new programs and efforts the
police department is currently focusing on in their neighborhood. During
Coffee With the Cops, no formal presentation takes place, so citizens are welcome
to drop in anytime during the event. Citizens will have the opportunity to
meet the officers who are working in their neighborhoods. Officers will be
answering questions, passing out crime prevention information, connecting
citizens with city services and helping citizens get connected to the Redwood
City Police Department’s social media sites.
Public safety town hall meetings (mark your calendars):
Fair Oaks Community Center, 2600 Middlefield Road
March 19, 7–8:30 p.m.
Peninsula Covenant Church, 3560 Farm Hill Blvd.
June 19, 7–8:30 p.m.
St. Pius Church, 1100 Woodside Road
Sept. 11, 7–8:30 p.m.
Redwood Shores Library, 399 Marine Parkway
Nov. 13, 7–8:30 p.m.
Coffee With the Cops events:
Canyon Coffee Roastery, 3203 Oak Knoll Drive
Tuesday, March 12, 7:30–9 a.m.
Hoover Family Center, 701 Charter St.
Friday, April 12, 8:30–10 a.m.
Starbucks, Marsh Manor, 955 Marsh Road
Tuesday, April 23, 5:30–7 p.m.
Summit Coffee, Roosevelt Plaza, 2137 Roosevelt
Wednesday, May 15, 8–9:30 a.m.
Franklin Street Café, Sequoia Station, 1053 El Camino Real
Sunday, June 9, 2–3:30 p.m.
Starbucks, 820 Woodside Road
Sunday, July 21, 3–4:30 p.m.
Peet’s Coffee, 2600 Broadway
Tuesday, Aug. 6, 8–9:30 am
Starbucks, Redwood Shores, 264 Redwood Shores Parkway
Saturday, Aug. 24, 12:30–2 p.m.
www.SpectrumMagazine.net

GREG GARCIA REAL ESTATE
CELL (650) 771-0656
GregGarciaHomes@gmail.com
CA DRE 01009536

1952 2012
Pete’s Harbor
Celebrating Our 60 th Anniversary
Thank you for supporting us through the years.
We urge you to contribute and support local
non-profit organizations that do outstanding
work in our community.
Berths & Dry Storage
One Uccelli Boulevard, Redwood City, CA 94063 • 650-366-0922

empathy
We feel for you. We know that we live in tough times, and we’ve got an institution
designed for these times. We care about you, and that’s not hype.
irma rivera
hairstylist
member since 1987
Some car loans are more than
just transportation. When Irma
Rivera had trouble with her
van, it meant more than just an
inconvenience. It meant that she
would not be able to transport
her daughter Brianna, disabled in a wheelchair. So getting a new van
meant a great deal to this single-parent family.
=
“I have been a hair stylist in Redwood City since I was young,” said Irma.
“And I deposited my very first paycheck from the salon with San Mateo
Credit Union.” So when she needed new transportation, she knew
who to call.
Funny how goodwill perpetuates itself, because now all of Irma’s nieces
and nephews are members as well as her parents. “My brother is the only
hold out,” said Irma. “But we’re working on him. Ha!”
“
(650) 363-1725
Take a closer look. You can join!
www.smcu.org
“

Cultural Events (Continued from page 9)
McVerry, Music for Minors’ Sonja Palmer,
Barbara Pierce, Eric and Lori Lochtefeld of the
Fox Theatre, the Redwood City Civic Cultural
Commission and Bardi Rosman Koodrin. More
than 180 guests gathered on Jan. 25 at Hiller Aviation
Museum in San Carlos to toast the honorees,
hosted by Peninsula Arts Council.
Four Redwood City residents were lauded for their
contributions to the arts in San Mateo County:
Warren Dale for the Redwood City Civic Cultural
Commission for Government Support for the Arts,
Barbara Pierce for Arts Volunteer, Eric and
Lori Lochtefeld for Local Business Support and
Maureen McVerry for Arts Educator.
Returning to the stage as a guest presenter was
the 2011 Diamond Award recipient for Individual
Artist, Troy Paiva, a renowned night photographer
and author from Redwood City.
The Honorable Warren Slocum, San Mateo
County supervisor of District 4, gave a special
greeting to the crowd and bestowed certificates
of commendation to all honorees on behalf of the
San Mateo County Board of Supervisors.
Of the 60 generous businesses, individuals
and organizations that contributed to the event’s
silent auction, Redwood City boasted the highest
number of contributors, including: Amici’s East
Coast Pizzeria, Arya Global Cuisine, Fox
Theatre, Main Street Coffee Roasting Company,
Mayer’s Jewelers, Mistral Restaurant and Bar,
New Kapadokia, Ralph’s Vacuum and Sewing
Center, Sakura Teppanaki and Sushi, Café La
Tartine, Nob Hill Catering — The Lunch Master,
Dragon Productions Theatre Company, Redwood
Symphony, Kelly X., Beth Mostovoy — Honeybear
Prints, Alisan Andrews and Barbara Pierce.
All ten of the new honorees will join the roster
of over 100 artists and organizations who have
received the prestigious Diamond Awards in the
event’s 11-year history.
The Main Gallery
1018 Main St., Redwood City
650-701-1018
www.themaingallery.org
The Main Gallery, an artists’ cooperative with
23 members, showcases the work of some of the
best local talent in the Bay Area. The gallery is
located in the historic yellow Victorian cottage at
the corner of Main and Middlefield. The gallery is
open Wednesday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
and weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Insects & Bugs!
Insects & Bugs, a show of five artists’ work, runs
through March 17 at The Main Gallery. This
imaginative art exhibition showcases gallery
artists Katinka Hartmetz, Diana Herring, Arena
Shawn, Ginger Slonaker and Susan Wolf. Each
artist brings you her own unique perspective of
an artist’s relationship to insects and bugs. The
gallery will host a reception with the artists on
Saturday, Feb. 16, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Here is a small sampling of some of the artwork
you will see at Insects & Bugs.
Using upcycled wool sweaters, felt and yarn,
Katinka Hartmetz has experimented with making
www.SpectrumMagazine.net
Above, clockwise from top left: Ginger Slonaker, “So
Bee It,” mixed media, 19”x12”, 2013. Diana Herring,
“Metamorphosis,” 24”x18”, silkscreen on paper, 2012.
Katinka Hartmetz, “Stuffed Bugs,” wool and felt, 2013.
Susan Wolf, “Insect With Wings,” ceramic and wire, 2012.
soft toys that are more than a foot tall and very
lovable! Hartmetz is also exhibiting an abstract
painting of a dragonfly and two beautiful antique
windows with distressed botanical drawings of
insects in the windowpanes.
Diana Herring states, “Insects and bugs are
very different from humans: They wear their
skeletons on the outside; their blood is green
or yellow; during their lives, many experience
radical transformations called metamorphosis;
they are born knowing everything they need to
know in order to succeed at every stage of life;
they are endowed with numerous, exquisitely
tuned senses. To me, this makes them interesting.
However,” she continues, “My work is always
about human consciousness and experience!”
For the Insects & Bugs exhibit, Herring took
out the World Book Encyclopedia she had as
a child. She revisited the happy hours she had
spent looking at the diagrams and hunting for
bugs. She also looked again at the famous French
printmaker Grandville, who excelled at depicting
insects reflecting human foibles. Herrings’ prints
are done with various silkscreen processes and
different forms of intaglio printmaking.
Arena Shawn, a new gallery artist specializing
in watercolor, is showing a series depicting
butterflies dwelling on flowers, which are painted
in her signature realistic, detailed fashion. She
is showing these along with a set of colorful
studies of bees, dragonflies and beetles. These are
painted with more expressive colors, and she has
experimented with guiding wet paint on paper and
using loose expressive drawing.
Until Feb. 23, you can also find Shawn’s work in
the Watercolor Show in the Cinema Place Gallery
in Hayward.
Painter Ginger Slonaker uses humor and recycled
materials — cabinet doors, fan blades and old
windows, mostly “places where bugs might
typically collect,” she says. Slonaker exclaims, “I
reflect on a phrase I hear frequently living with
teenagers: Bug off. Funny how those words can
apply to shooing away insects as well as parents!”
Slonaker drew inspiration from the similarities
she found between a bug’s existence and that of
being a teenager’s parent. She states, “Both work
endlessly for the greater good yet are ultimately
shunned as irritants and nuisances by the humans
closest to them.”
Recently Slonaker has also been leading a
mural art club at the Bayside STEM (Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
Academy, a middle school in San Mateo. She
enjoys helping kids to break loose from their
preconceptions of “good” art and steering them
to trust themselves and the ideas and abilities of
their peers.
Artist Susan Wolf is exhibiting ceramic winged
insects. She says, “This is different than anything
I have done before in terms of subject, but most of
them do have wings! Wings have been a recurring
interest of mine and in this instance (these
instances) the wings are mostly of different kinds
of wire.”
The delicate charming insects in this show
might help us all to remember that we share the
world with many creatures. Following Insects & Bugs,
look for the Mainly Clay show and an exhibition
centering on climate change. Not to be missed!
“In My Life”
Award-Winning Beatles Musical at Fox
Theatre May 4
In My Life: A Musical Theatre Tribute to the
Beatles is the award-winning musical biography
of the Beatles through the eyes of manager Brian
Epstein and features the live music of renowned
tribute band Abbey Road. The show is widely
considered by industry insiders to be the most
unique Beatles show in decades. The multimedia
musical plays May 4 at 8 p.m. at the Fox Theatre
located at 2219 Broadway St. in Redwood City.
Tickets are $24–$40 and may be purchased online
at www.foxrwc.com, by calling 650-369-7770 and
choosing option 1 for tickets, or by visiting the
theater’s box office.
More than just a Beatles tribute concert, In My
Life gives the audience a chance to “be there” at
pivotal moments in the extraordinary career of
the Beatles: Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club,
The Ed Sullivan Show, Shea Stadium, Abbey
Road Studios and the final live performance on
the rooftop of their Apple Corp offices. With
manager Brian Epstein serving as narrator, In My
Life allows the audience to get a glimpse inside
the world of the Beatles from their point of view,
as well as hear some of the greatest songs ever
written. Historical settings such as the Cavern
(continues on page 28)

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6/24/2011 11:11:52 A

The WOODSIDE TERRACE A. M. KIWANIS FOUNDATION
Annual Crab Cioppino
Fund Raiser!
RETURNING TO THE
AMERICAN LEGION HALL Post 105
651 EL CAMINO REAL, REDWOOD CITY
SATURDAY, MARCH 9TH
5:30 P.M. UNTIL 9:30 P. M.
RAFFLE PRIZES, SILENT AUCTION
$45 PER PERSON
CHILDREN 6-12, HALF PRICE
ADVANCE SALES ONLY
CALL LARRY GRAVES AT 650-380-6990
OR COMPLETE BELOW AND MAIL ORDERS TO
LARRY GRAVES 1735 East Bayshore Rd., #32A, Redwood City, CA 94063.
-----——----------------------------------——------------------------------—————————————-------------------
NAME: ___________________________
Phone #_________________________
Address/City/Zip___________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
Please send ________ tickets at $45.00 each for a total of $_________ (payment enclosed)
mail tickets to:______________________________________ Phone: ____________________
Payable to: Woodside Terrace AM Kiwanis Foundation. (A 501c3 Charitable Foundation)

Cultural Events (Continued from page 24)
Club are established on stage with videos and images that play behind the
actors and musicians on a video screen.
Four Beatles tribute musicians and actors were cast to portray the Fab Four
in the musical. With their tight harmonies, flawless renditions, customtailored
costumes, vintage instruments, Liverpudlian dialect and precise
attention to detail, they recreate the magic of the Beatles, including the Fab
Four’s cheeky personalities and familiar onstage banter. In My Life takes
the audience back to February 1964 when America watched the Beatles for
the first time on The Ed Sullivan Show, playing “I Want to Hold Your Hand.”
Progressing through their various musical stages, the audience re-experiences
the psychedelic era of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, the creation of
the haunting “Blackbird” and the raucous rock ’n’ roll of “Revolution.”
“There have been so many different Beatle band concert shows over the
years, but in In My Life we get a chance to see the Beatles up close and
personal, and hopefully gain a deeper insight into who they really were,” said
Tom Maher, one of the show’s producers.
The four musician/actors cast to play John, Paul, George and Ringo were
selected from 220 Beatle tribute musicians, most of whom showed up for
auditions in costume and in character. The band features Chris Paul Overall
(“Paul”), Gregory Wilmot (“John”), Jesse Wilder (“George”) and Axel Clarke
(“Ringo”).
“The show delivers!” said the L.A. Times. “If you see one tribute show, see
this one — smart and loads of fun,” said the O.C. Register. “This is the ticket
for you,” said the Idaho Statesman. “The most original of all the shows on the
Beatles,” said the San Diego Theatre Review.
Art on the Square
Call for Artists and Crafters for June–August Shows
Art on the Square features the best in fine arts and crafts each month
between June and August at Courthouse Square in downtown Redwood City.
Complementing Music on the Square and the PAL Blues Festival, AOTS
showcases original painting, photography, jewelry, glass, ceramics and more
at prices for every budget. Plus, Jewelry on the Square (JOTS) will return
in July. Monthly jurying until each show is filled. Apply today at www.
redwoodcityevents.com. For more information, email ArtontheSquare@
sbcglobal.net.
Art on the Square 2013 dates & times
Friday, June 14, 5–8:30 p.m. with Music on the Square
Friday, July 12, 5–8:30 p.m. Jewelry on the Square with Music on the Square
Friday, July 26, 5–8:30 p.m. with Music on the Square
Saturday, July 27, 12–8 p.m. with the PAL Blues Festival
Sunday, July 28, 12–5 p.m. with the PAL Blues Festival
Friday, Aug. 24, 5–8:30 p.m. with Music on the Square
As I Was Saying… (Continued from page 6)
People can attend seminars all day long, but it is important to see the
success of such events aside from the number of people who attend. If you
cannot justify it by showing business attraction or increased revenues, then
move it here so at least our hotels and some service-oriented businesses can
benefit from it.
Let’s just say there are 200 attendees and they spend an average of $1,000
each (the registration fee is $585). That is a significant amount of money.
Also, considering there are company-hosted dinners, parties and events that
have room rentals, catering services, beverage services, etc., there is a lot of
revenue that could stay right here and boost our local economy. So we are
talking about a large amount of money leaving our community.
Holding the event here would fit perfectly with the chamber’s stated
mission to promote economic prosperity for our community through business
representation and advocacy with emphasis on information, communication
and education.
This all leads me back to change. Change should be welcomed by any
organization. It reflects keeping up with the times, the changing of the
business climate, different goals and expectations of membership. A board of
directors and CEO should reflect that change and solicit members at large on
what they want, what they need to succeed.
This is a perfect opportunity to do that. I hope the executive committee of
the chamber (who will be recommending Larry’s permanent replacement)
will go out and ask us. Make a few phone calls to us. Engage us. Make us feel
like we are a part of the process.
Then, even if we have the perfect and ideal person in place already to
take over, the information gathered in the process will only improve the
chamber as a whole and provide a better opportunity for our entire business
community to thrive. After all, isn’t that the reason we join the chamber?
Looking forward to some Irish green beverages soon.
As I was saying…
www.SpectrumMagazine.net
.…

Insurance Tips: Do You Need Travel Insurance?
By Hector Flamenco, Special to The Spectrum
If you do a lot of traveling for business, it is very likely that your company
takes care of the travel insurance for you. If you are traveling for recreation
or pleasure, you may not even have thought about needing travel insurance.
Many tourists are exposed to a number of dangers when they travel but may
not actually be aware of the risks they are taking. If you plan to travel, you
should seriously consider looking into travel insurance.
One of the most common dangers that a traveler may face is the loss
or theft of money, luggage, electronics such as a cell phone or iPad, and
important documents related to travel such as your passport or even your
plane tickets. When a loss like this occurs, it can be very important to have
instant help. Your family will need to know that your plans have changed if
you don’t have your original tickets for flying home, and you will need their
assistance to come up with funds if your money has been stolen, so that you
can purchase new tickets to get home. This can be an expensive venture, and
you may end up paying for your trip twice if this type of problem were to
occur. However, with travel insurance, most of your costs would be covered,
and help would be right where you need it so you can get back home.
Sometimes, a person who is traveling gets involved in legal problems or
even in unlawful activities without realizing it. The cost of hiring a lawyer
when you are out of the country could be astronomical. You can get insurance
that will cover at least a portion of any legal expenses that you might incur
when you are traveling.
When you travel, you also expose yourself and your family to possible
health risks associated with changing environments and even different foods.
This is a bigger problem for people who rarely travel than for people who
travel frequently, since they don’t really know what to expect. If you require
medical assistance when you are in a different country, you will find that it
can be very costly, depending on the problem and on the country. Without
travel insurance that covers medical costs, you could end up spending all of
your vacation money on medical care. You can get insurance that covers most
common medical issues that could save you quite a bit of money in the long run.
Another common danger that a person who is traveling may encounter
is an accident. Whether you are at home or abroad, accidents can happen.
Depending on the type of accident, a person could receive a temporary
disability, a permanent disability or even a worst-case scenario of death. You
can imagine the cost of being life-flighted from the scene of an accident to a
hospital when you are in a foreign country, or even the cost of an ambulance
taking you to a nearby medical facility. If you don’t have travel insurance,
you could find that your entire savings account has been emptied or that you
have incurred a large debt because of a single accident.
When you think about it, the cost for travel insurance for one trip is much
less costly than if you were to experience any of the problems listed above.
If you travel frequently, you can get insurance that covers you either for a
period of time or for a number of trips. This will cost more up-front than
a single trip policy, but may be less expensive in the long run. All travel
insurance policies are not created equally, so be sure to read the policy so
that you will know whether you are covered for accident, illness, theft, lost
luggage, legal expenses, ambulance services, etc. Know your policy before
you go, and don’t leave home without it.
Editor’s note: Please note that this article is for general information only and is not a
professional consultation. Always seek information from a licensed insurance professional.
Hector Flamenco is an agent with State Farm Insurance. Visit his website at www.
flamencoinsurance.com.
Senior Activities
The Veterans Memorial Senior Center, 1455 Madison Ave., Redwood City, is providing
the following activities that are open to the public during the month of March.
Friday Movies for Everyone
Every Friday, 1:15 p.m. (unless otherwise announced)
Come to the Veterans Memorial Senior Center for a free feature movie in our
state-of-the-art movie theater! Please note: Movies may be changed at any
time due to availability.
March 8: “Flight”
March 15: “Anna Karenina”
March 22: “Skyfall”
March 29: “The Bouquet”
Lunch
Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays, noon
Redwood Room, $5
Our new chef, Gavin Gonzado, executive chef at Portobello Restaurant here in
Redwood City, is now cooking on-site and our diners rave about the meals he’s
preparing. Our meals always include soup, an entrée, dessert and your choice of beverage.
Make your reservation for Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday at 650-780-7259.
AARP Free Tax Preparation
By appointment only
Wednesdays through April 10
Call the AARP tax appointment hot line at 650-489-6023. You will be asked
to leave a message and an AARP volunteer will contact you to schedule an
appointment. You must have an appointment for this service.
Blood Pressure Screening
Tuesday, March 5
9–11 a.m., Goldstar Room
11 a.m.–noon, Adaptive PE Room
Did you know you can get a free blood pressure screening here at the center?
Well, you can! Sponsored by Sequoia Health & Wellness Center, on the first
Tuesday of the month, we are glad to be able to offer this service. Come get
your free blood pressure screening.
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Luncheon
March 14, noon
Redwood Room, $8
Come celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by having lunch with old and new friends.
Our wonderful new chef, Gavin, will be preparing the traditional corned beef
and cabbage. Don’t miss out on this luncheon: Make your reservation(s) by
calling 650-780-7259.
Zumba!
Saturdays, 9:30–10:30 a.m.
Sequoia Room, Wellness Building
Carmen and Vanessa, from M & M Studios, will be holding a Zumba class on
an ongoing basis. Cost is $10/drop-in or purchase a punch card for 10 sessions
for $45. No experience is necessary to attend this calorie-burning class.
SAVE THE DATE: June 22
Bingo, Bunko & Bridge
This event, sponsored by the Peninsula Hills Women’s Club, will be held in
support of families of veterans in recovery at Fischer House in Palo Alto.
To learn more about the Veterans Memorial Senior Center, call 650-780-
7270. Redwood City Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department
provides recreational facilities and activities for all ages and interests, and
supplies building and custodial services for city buildings. Redwood City
Parks also operates the Veterans Memorial Senior Center and the Fair Oaks
Community Center, providing social, educational and cultural activities, as
well as information, referral and counseling services to persons living in
Redwood City and neighboring communities. Redwood City Parks is more
than you think! Its website is located at www.redwoodcity.org/parks.
The Spectrum 29

A Minute With Gordon Bliss
Gordon Bliss was born in San Mateo at Mills Hospital. He attended grammar school at
Nesbit in Belmont and then graduated from Ralston Intermediate. He went on to Carlmont
High School and graduated in 1976.
He then attended the College of San Mateo for one year and went on to gain a master’s
degree in human performance from San Jose State. He was a collegiate hurdler and,
although he was a speed athlete in his youth, he has competed in many endurance sports,
such as marathons, long-distance cycling and triathlons. His current passion, for the last
30 years, is bike riding.
Gordon started working at Fitness 101 in Menlo Park in 1986 as a manager and then
became president and part owner. He is currently a managing partner at Mobius Fit on
Woodside Road in Redwood City.
He and his wife, Lynn, have been married for 25 years and have twin daughters, Alyssa
and Alexandra, who attend Sequoia High School. They live in the Centennial neighborhood
of Redwood City.
His hobbies include technical computer work, bike racing, gardening and house improvements.
Why Redwood City?
Climate Best by Government Test.
Are youth today generally fit?
Not even close, very sad.
What is one thing you could tell us about
yourself that others would be shocked to know?
Lost my older brother to heart disease. I had
bypass surgery two years ago.
Who did you wish you were when you were a kid?
Bruce Jenner.
What phrase do you most overuse?
Awesome!
Memorable moment?
Watching my children being born.
What is your motto?
If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up
too much space!
You are inspired by?
People in general. Everybody has something they
overcome every day.
What is a dream you have or something you’d
like to accomplish in your life?
Seeing my children being successful in whatever
they choose to do.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
A day when you can relax with family and
friends, floating down the Truckee River.
Who or what is the love of your life?
My wife.
If you’re happy and you know it?
Spread it to others.
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