| Midtown News Updates |
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MIDTOWN BUSINESS/NEIGHBOR NEWS
LAST CALL: EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: PAN (Palo Alto Neighborhood Block Preparedness Coordinator training May 8 at 10AM at Cubberly/Foothill campus. See www.paneighborhoods.org/ep. RSVP to epvolunteers@paneighborhoods.org.
New quake maps released by USGS. They were released this week - the state Geological survey's 150 birthday. Check them out at www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs
Midtown Opal'z needs a part time worker. Between 2 and 5 days from Wednesday through Sunday. Creative work, lots of kids, learn about body care products and most of all soap. It's not enough work for someone's only job, but if you know somebody who has evening restaurant work, retired or has a nanny job that isn't enough income, send them my way! I need a motived, people person, who is good with kids and who is reliable. Contact: Annie www.opalzoap.com or 322-6500 annie@opalzoap.com.
CITY/COUNTY/SCHOOL EVENTS/NOTES
The California State Auditor released the following report today: High-Speed Rail Authority - It Risks Delays or an Incomplete System Because of Inadequate Planning, Weak Oversight, and Lax Contract Management.
Fact Sheet: http://www.bsa.ca.gov/pdfs/factsheets/2009-106.pdf. Summary: http://www.bsa.ca.gov/reports/summary/2009-106. Full Report: http://www.bsa.ca.gov/reports/summary/2009-106. The Full Report includes an Agency Response letter from the CHRSA: “We do believe, however, that the report’s inflammatory title is overly aggressive considering that the contents of the audit’s findings are not equally scathing.”
ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO DISCUSS THE CITY BUDGET: As you are aware, cities across the country, including Palo Alto, are facing significant fiscal challenges. Mayor Pat Burt and City Manager Jim Keene invite residents to attend an important meeting on Saturday, May 15 from 9:30 - 11 AM at Lucie Stern to discuss the Fiscal Year 2011 city budget. Please attend -- and bring your interests, concerns and questions. To learn more about the City's budget challenges or to view the City Manager's preliminary preview budget, please visit www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/mgr/community_budget_forum.asp. If you can't attend one of these meetings, send an email to: budget4pa@cityofpaloalto.org.
TRAVEL FOR TEENS: These summer youth passes for transit are a convenient, green, and inexpensive way for young people to get around independently to special events, summer camps, and summer jobs without driving solo.
VTA Summer Blast Pass ***new*** Valley Transportation Authority is once again offering youth the opportunity to purchase a Summer Blast Pass. The pass allows unlimited rides on VTA bus and light rail from June 1 through August 31, 2010 for a discounted rate of only $75 - the same great price as last year. Several value-added items are included from VTA partners such as a free movie admission at Camera Cinemas, a significant discount on admission to Great America ($15 off admission), as well as others. Info: www.vta.org/sbp. Flyer: palylink.paloaltopta.org/enews/vtasummerblast.pdf
SamTrans' 2010 Summer Youth Pass ***new*** SamTrans' 2010 Summer Youth Pass will be available for purchase starting May 21 and we're reaching out to schools and other partners to help spread the word about this great travel bargain. The Summer Youth Pass offers a significant savings to kids 17 years of age and younger over the cost of monthly bus passes - and it allows them to go green. Details about this year's Summer Youth Pass campaign will be posted on a special SamTrans Web page at www.samtrans.com/syp by May 21. The City of Palo Alto FREE Shuttle is another great way to get around. For information on shuttle schedules and routes, visit http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/pln/news/details.asp?NewsID=212&TargetID=87.
The City of Palo Alto is currently accepting applications for both the Library Advisory Commission and the Human Relations Commission. Palo Alto residency is required to serve on either of these commissions. Serving on a commission is an opportunity for citizens to become involved with their local government. If you or someone you know has been looking for a chance to affect change with topics that have an impact in your community, please consider applying.
Applications for the Human Relations Commission are due on Friday, May 7, 2010 by 5:00 PM. Applications for the Library Advisory Commission are due on Thursday, May 27, 2010 by 5:30 PM. Please send an email to Ronna.Gonsalves@cityofpaloalto.org if you would like more information.
MAY 1: May Fete Children's Parade - 10 AM University Ave. Questions: 463-4921 or www.cityofpaloalto.org/recreation. The morning will be filled with spirited entertainment from local high school and junior high school marching bands, decorated hand-pulled floats, and thousands of children marching, skating, cycling, tumbling, and strolling through downtown Palo Alto. Following the parade, join Partners in Education and celebrate our schools with food, music, and games at the 8 th Annual PiE Fair, sponsored by Partners Town Fair at Addison School until 1 PM
MAY 8: Candidate Forum for the Assembly District 21 Seat from 10-11:30 AM (doors open at 9:30am), PAUSD Board Room, 25 Churchill. Josh Becker, Founder of New Cycle Capital, Rich Gordon, Supervisor in San Mateo County, and Yoriko Kishimoto, former Mayor of Palo Alto, are in a hotly contested Democratic primary race for California's 21st Assembly District to replace Ira Ruskin, who will be termed out at the end of 2010. Come hear their thoughts as they respond to pertinent education issues of the day. Republican Greg Conlon, Businessman and CPA, is running in the primary unopposed. Question panelists include Kenji Hakuta, Stanford University School of Education, Gordon Lewin, former Board member of the Menlo Park City and Sequoia Union High School Districts, Saree Mading, a Board Member of the Ravenswood City School District and an Assistant Principal of the East Palo Alto Charter School, and Camille Townsend, Board Member of the Palo Alto Unified School District. Sponsors include The Midpeninsula Community Media Center, area PTAs, Community Advisory Committee for Special Education, California Charter Schools Association and the Palo Alto PTA Council. The Media Center will televise the event on Channel 28 live, and stream the event at http://midpenmedia.org.
City Council Agenda
MAY 3: 7PM Council Chambers: Study session: Update on the Library Bond Measure Projects and the College Terrace Library Infrastructure Renovation. Study session on City Manager’s Proposed Budget for Fiscal Year for 2011
For more see http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civica/filebank/blobdload.asp?BlobID=19936.
The Palo Alto City Council encourages the community to provide early feedback on the following two issues on the agenda of the upcoming Monday May 3 council meeting: 1) 10 Year Electric Efficiency Goals. State law requires the City of Palo Alto to develop goals for electric energy efficiency savings for the next 10 years. These goals are to be redeveloped every three years and forwarded to the California Energy Commission. Should the City Council approve the proposed 2010 Ten-Year Electric EE Plan with a goal, double that set in 2007, to save 7.2% of the electric needs of the City by 2020? 2) Renewable Electric Power Contracts: Should the Council approve one or two power purchase agreements to buy 3% or 6% of Palo Alto's electricity from landfill waste gas, a renewable energy source, for a period of either 15 or 20 years? Please go to: Palo Alto's Open City Hall online forum for the May 3 Council Meeting .
MAY 4 Special Council meeting with boards & commissions to Receive Presentation from City Manager on the Proposed Fiscal Year 2011 Budget starting at 6PM in council chambers
Planning & Transportation Commission
MAY 12: Joint City Council/Planning & Transportation Commission Review and Direction Regarding the Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Housing Element Update at 6 PM
PAUSD
Strong Bonds: High School Facilities Steering Committee Meetings to discuss the programming for the group two projects and the high schools landscape master plan. The meetings will be conducted by Deems Lewis McKinley Architecture.
The meetings are scheduled as follows:
Gunn High School: 12:30 to 1:30 PM, on Wednesday, May 5, at the Gunn High School's Staff Lounge located at 780 Arastradero Road,
Palo Alto High School: 3:15 to 5:00 PM, on Wednesday, May 5, at the Palo Alto High School's Library located at 50 Embarcadero Rd.
Landscape Master Plan Meetings to discuss the landscape conceptual design for Palo Alto High School and Gunn High School.
The meetings will be lead by Deems Lewis McKinley Architecture and landscape architects, Gates and Associates. The meetings are scheduled as follows:
Palo Alto High School: 3:30 to 5:00 PM, on Tuesday, May 4, at the Palo Alto High School Library located at 50 Embarcadero Rd..
Gunn High School: 3:30 to 5:00 PM, on Thursday, May 6, at the Gunn High School Staff Lounge located at 780 Arastradero Road.
LOCAL EVENTS/NEWS
COMMON GARDEN CLASSES:
Saturday, May 8: DRIP IRRIGATION with Frank Niccoli from 2:00 - 4:00 PM. FEE: $31 Registration: http://dripirrigation.eventbrite.com or call 650-493-6072 This hands-on class, held at the Common Ground Demonstration Garden, will teach you the simplicity of installing and maintaining a drip system. We will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of drip irrigation versus a spray system. Pressure reduction and filtration as well as irrigation controllers will be shown.
Saturday, May 15: HOW TO START YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN with Jody Main from 10:30 - 12:30 PM. FEE: $31 + $5 materials fee Registration: http://veggiegarden.eventbrite.com or call 493-6072
The lessons from our forests guide us in gardening the easiest way of all . . . naturally . . . organically! Class will include methods of organically planting and caring for vegetables and herbs. Jody will also cover wonderful heirloom vegetables to grow this summer, traditional Native American methods of planting the Three Sisters (corn, beans, squash) for gardens large and small, seasonal herbs, and summer harvesting techniques. Plant list and recipes included.
Saturday, May 22: STARTING YOUR SUMMER GARDEN with Drew Harwell from 10:30 - 12:30 PM. FEE: $31. Registration: http://summergarden.eventbrite.com or call 493-6072.
Learn how to replace strictly ornamental plants with edible ones that fill a similar design niche. This might include substituting Chilean guava for a boxwood hedge or a persimmon for a large ornamental tree. How about strawberries instead of Vinca, or avocado for a camphor tree? The idea is to grow plants with dual purposes - creating an aesthetically pleasing landscape with ornamental edibles.
TV Discussion - The Talking with Henrietta Show: Can cultural awareness training assist a police department in fighting crime? Find out on the current edition of Talking with Henrietta when host Henrietta J. Burroughs talks with two East Palo Alto police officers who discuss whether the cultural awareness training they've received is of value to them as they interact with the city's community members. The title of the show is "Increasing Cultural Awareness in a Police Department and it can be seen on the web and on Channel 27 on Comcast through Friday, April 30, 2010 on Sundays@5 PM, Tuesdays@8 PM, Wednesdays@3 AM and 11 AM, Thursdays@8 PM and Fridays@3 AM and 11 AM. For more information go to www.epatoday.org.
MAY 2: Palo Alto Historical Association and Palo Alto Stanford Heritage present annual Heritage Preservation Awards and History of Palo Alto Pump Houses. 2 PM at Lucie Stern. FREE. Refreshments
MAY 2: Talk at Art Center. Heaven on Earth: The Universe of Kerala's Guruvayur Temple a talk by Pepita Seth at 11 AM. For more information visit www.cityofpaloalto.org/artcenter.
MAY 6: Talk at Art Center. Discovery & Remembrance at 7 PM at Palo Alto Art Center Auditorium, FREE ADMISSION. For more information visit www.cityofpaloalto.org/artcenter.
MAY 16 from 3 - 5 PM: Avenidas Lifetimes of Achievement Garden Party. You are invited to join Avenidas at a beautiful home on the Stanford campus for an afternoon filled with music, wine and appetizers to celebrate the achievements of six outstanding seniors: Elizabeth Wolf, Gordon Russell, Marge Bruno, Emery Rogers, and Fred and Marcia Rehmus. Tickets can be purchased by calling 289-5445 or online at www.avenidas.org. Proceeds from the event help fund the programs offered at Avenidas that support older adults and their families.
MAY 22: Concert: Soli Deo Gloria and Orchestra Gloria, conducted by Allen H Simon with organist Angela Kraft Cross presents "From the Heart", a concert of choral and orchestral music composed in loving memory of mothers and fathers featuring the Duruflé Requiem and works by Rutter, Daley, Chatman, plus four specially-commissioned premieres by Bay Area composers: Conrad Susa, Jay Lyon, Julia Simon and Artistic Director Allen H Simon at 5 PM, First Lutheran Church, 600 Homer Ave. Tickets are $25 (general) and $20 (student/senior) at the door; discount for advance purchase. Student in grades K-8 are free. Tickets may be purchased by phone: Call 888/SDG-SONG or online at http://www.sdgloria.org.
JULY 23- AUGUST 24: Music at Menlo. FEE: $10-$72 For info, call 331-0202 or www.musicatmenlo.org.
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MAY 1: "Spring Sounds" from 6- 11 PM at Sharon Heights Country Club.: Adolescent Counseling Services celebrates 35 years, FEE: $200. See www.acs-teens.org.
MAY 1: Common Ground Class (559 College) START A SALAD GARDEN with Jody Main from 10:30 - 12:30. FEE: $31 + $5 materials fee. Registration: http://earthdaygarden.eventbrite.com or call 493-6072.
MAY 2: "Connecting and Caring: We Can Do Better For Our Youth" from 6:30 - 8: 30PM at St Marks Church, 600 Colorado. For questions, call Greg Smitherman at 321-2266
MAY 2: Environmental Volunteers invites you to Wild Quest, a scavenger hunt that takes a nature-based spin on the popular urban treasure hunts. Sign up as an individual or form a team. Adult tickets are $50, Youth (10 - 17) $20, Children 9 and under are Free. Buy event and raffle tickets now: http://www.evols.org/index.php?page=alias. For more, call 961-0545.
MAY 3, 15: Zoom In - Video Production made simple and social! - 16-hr workshop Full schedule & details: http://midpenmedia.org/zoomin/. For more, contact Becky Sanders, 494-8686 x 11, Zoom In Coordinator, and ask about our Zoom In Mixers and Screenings or check out our website. If you're ready to sign up today - contact Lupita at 494-8686 x 35.
MAY 8 & 9 and/or MAY 15 & 16: Rochelle Ford Open Studio from 10AM to 5 PM stop in to see her new sculptures at 1155 Waverley. www.metalsculptor.com
MAY 8: San Francisco Chamber Orchestra - Home Series Concert: Rockin' Robin from 8 - 10 PM at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 600 Colorado Avenue. See http://www.saint-marks.com. FREE: No advanced reservations required.
MAY 9: Gamble Garden Mother's Day Champagne Brunch in the Garden. Seatings at 10 AM or 12:30 PM. FEE: $65/adult, $50/child, all inclusive. Questions: http://www.gamblegarden.org or 329-1356 x201
MAY 14: Caryll-Lynn Taylor, Midtown resident & volunteer for Deborah's Palm, an innovative center for women, invites us to the grand opening from noon to 6PM at 555 Lytton. See www.deborahspalm.org.
MAY 15: Palo Alto Women's Club Spring Kitchen Tour from 10 AM - 4 PM. Tour includes 5 great kitchens plus two Food Demos plus Raffle Tickets. FEE: Before May 8 $30, after $35. day of tickets available at 125 Southland Drive. Questions 269-3517 or www.womansclubofpaloalto.org.
MAY 22, 2010: New Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance Elements – Calculations and Standards from 9:00 AM -noon; Instructor - Chris Todd; Cubberley Community Center - Room H-6.
JUNE 20: World Music Day from 3 - 7:30PM on University Ave. See http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/news/displaynews.asp?NewsID=1246&TargetID=268
JULY 5-9: An environmentally-themed summer day-camp for children in grades 1- 6 will be offered by the YMCA. Topics include: renewable energy, waste management, the meaning & benefits of 'going green', natural resources conservation & protection. For information, contact the YMCA at 856-9622. Online registration begins on January 25. http://www.paloaltofamilyymca.org
TIP from MARY: Things Your Burglar Won't Tell You:
Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina, Oregon , California , and Kentucky; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs crimedoctor.com; and Richard T. Wright, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri-St Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job.
MIDTOWN BUSINESS/NEIGHBOR NEWS
See video of Jim Keene's Budget comments to Midtown Residents at http://www.paloaltoonline.com/news/show_story.php?id=16457 Video/Multimedia Link
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS:
* PAN (Palo Alto Neighborhood Block Preparedness Coordinator training May 8 at 10AM at Cubberly/Foothill campus. See www.paneighborhoods.org/ep. RSVP to epvolunteers@paneighborhoods.org.
* PANDA (Palo Alto Disaster Activity Classes) 20 hours starting Wednesdays on April 21. Choose 9 AM or 6:30 PM session. See http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/info/news/details.asp?NewsID=193&TargetID=60 for more. To register, call Palo Alto Fire Dept at 617-3197.
Midtown artist Martha Castillo events: Don't forget Open Studio http://www.svos.org: See her work at May 8/9 Gallery House, 320 N California or May 15/16 at 722 Clara Avenue
MYGYM at Midtown Centre: Next Parents Night Out on April 29. See http://tinyurl.com/y4r3jer
CITY/COUNTY/SCHOOL EVENTS/NOTES
You may receive a letter or be solicited by members of the Palo Alto firefighter’s union to sign their petition to place an amendment to the City Charter on the November ballot. Below is an agenda item for last Monday night City Council meeting proposed by Larry Klein, Karen Holman and Gregg Scharff: " “Colleague’s Memo from Council Members Holman, Klein and Scharff Requesting that the City Council Recommend to the Voters of Palo Alto That They Not Sign the Union Petition Seeking to Remove the Ability of the Council to Determine Appropriate Staffing Levels for the Fire Department “ Do not sign the petition without reading it carefully and understanding it.
HIGH SPEED RAIL: Last Day to send comments April 26. If you are looking for a good place to start your comments, see http://www.calhsr.com/environmental-review/carrds-eir-reviews.
If you are looking for a way to refine your comments, see this: http://www.calhsr.com/environmental-review/how-to-write-an-eir-comment.
Please don't miss this chance to give your two cents to this once-in-a-lifetime transportation project. Comments can be addressed to: (regular mail) Dan Leavitt; California High-Speed Rail Authority; 925 L Street, Suite 1425; Sacramento, CA 95814 Via email to: comments@hsr.ca.gov and send a copy to: Plandiv.info@cityofpaloalto.org so the city of Palo Alto can have a record of your comments.
Draft from Palo Alto at Palo Alto (26 pages) http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civica/filebank/blobdload.asp?BlobID=19765
CITY OF PALO ALTO EARTH DAY ACTIVITIES: April 15-24, Visit City of Palo Alto for details.
APRIL 22: Mayor Burt will moderate an Earth Day Panel - "It’s the Green Economy” at 7PM in council chambers. Panelists will provide presentations about their visions and innovations followed by a lively discussion including questions from the audience. Topics include: What changes will we experience this decade from new, clean technologies? Is our city and region likely to help lead this revolution? Why? How can government, universities, clean tech companies, non profits and our businesses collaborate for success?
The City of Palo Alto is currently recruiting for the Human Relations Commission. Applications are due on May 7, 2010 at 5:00 PM. Contact City Clerk's office for info or application form at 329-2571 or visit our website at www.cityofpaloalto.org for more information.
APRIL 28: Public Meeting on San Antonio Improvement Project - Phase II. Cubberly room H5 at 6:30PM hosted by City of Palo Alto Public Works 329-2151. See www.cityofpaloalto.org/sa.
MAY 1: May Fete Children's Parade - 10 AM University Ave. Questions: 463-4921 or www.cityofpaloalto.org/recreation. The morning will be filled with spirited entertainment from local high school and junior high school marching bands, decorated hand-pulled floats, and thousands of children marching, skating, cycling, tumbling, and strolling through downtown Palo Alto. Following the parade, join Partners in Education and celebrate our schools with food, music, and games at the 8th Annual PiE Fair, sponsored by Partners Town Fair at Addison School until 1 PM
City Council Agenda
MAY 3: Public hearing on amending the Utility Rates & Charges pertaining to service connection fees
COUNCIL POLICY AND SERVICES Committee: Special meeting this Thursday, 4/22, at 8 AM for a preliminary discussion about the early release of Council packets. The meeting is in Council Chambers.
Planning & Transportation Commission
OTHER FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS WITH TENTATIVE DATES:
APRIL 28: North Cal. Ave Safe Routes to School/Traffic Calming Project + Stanford Hospital Fiscal Impact & Development Agreement
PAUSD: Strong Schools Bond Projects
APRIL 26: J.L. Stanford Middle School Neighborhood Meeting to review schematic design and receive further input on projects for JLS Middle School. The meeting will be conducted by AEDIS Architecture. The meeting will be held at the J.L. Stanford Middle School Cafetorium located at 480 E. Meadow Drive, at 7:00PM.
LOCAL EVENTS/NEWS
APRIL 24: 2010 Spring Fiesta at Palo Alto Friends Nursery School at 957 Colorado from 11 AM - 2 PM. Games, crafts, bake sale, silent auction...Bidding open now at pafns.cmarket.com/
APRIL 24: Common Ground Class (559 College) EAT YOUR LANDSCAPE taught by the enthusiastic and wise Nancy Garrison. from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM. FEE: $31. Learn how to replace strictly ornamental plants with edible ones that fill a similar design niche. This might include substituting Chilean guava for a boxwood hedge or a persimmon for a large ornamental tree. How about strawberries instead of Vinca, or avocado for a camphor tree? The idea is to grow plants with dual purposes - creating an aesthetically pleasing landscape with ornamental edibles. Registration: http://eatlandscape.eventbrite.com or call 493-6072.
APRIL 25: Stanford Historical Society present House and Garden Tour from 1 - 4 PM - 5 homes. See http://histsoc.stanford.edu. Questions: 324-1653. FEE: $20 before event' $25 day of event.
APRIL 27: Family Resources - 10th year - presentation by Dr James Doty of "The Cultivation of Compassion" 5:30- 7:30PM, Four Seasons Hotel, East Palo Alto. FEE: $25. Questions: 329-2221 or Erwin.Gonzales@cityofpaloalto.org.
MAY 1: "Spring Sounds" from 6- 11 PM at Sharon Heights Country Club.: Adolescent Counseling Services celebrates 35 years, FEE: $200. See www.acs-teens.org.
MAY 1: Common Ground Class (559 College) START A SALAD GARDEN with Jody Main from 10:30 - 12:30. FEE: $31 + $5 materials fee. Registration: http://earthdaygarden.eventbrite.com or call 493-6072. A small greens bed can keep a family of four in bountiful salads that can include: Italian misticanza, arugula, radicchio, French mesclun, chervil, endive, frisé, Asian baby greens, and spinach. Create a mix of braising greens by growing kale, chard and spinach together. Learn to plant, harvest and prepare delightful salads. A snack and recipes will be provided.
MAY 2: "Connecting and Caring: We Can Do Better For Our Youth" from 6:30 - 8: 30PM at St Marks Church, 600 Colorado. Join Barb Mitchell and Barbara Klausner from the PAUSD School Board, St. Mark’s Church, and Peninsula Interfaith Action. " It’s time to for us to be proactive, not just reactive. It’s time to create and sustain more programmatic ways of knowing and supporting each other, ways that in both good times and bad serve to strengthen us all as a unified, caring community. Come hear members of the community and school board discuss ideas from the faith community that could help us all do better for our youth For questions, call Greg Smitherman at 321-2266
MAY 8: San Francisco Chamber Orchestra presents: SFCO Home Series Concert: Rockin' Robin from 8 - 10 PM at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, 600 Colorado Avenue. See http://www.saint-marks.com. FREE: No advanced reservations required. Please arrive early to ensure a seat. This concert features the world premiere of SFCO Composer in Residence Gabriela Frank's new violin concerto, written for concertmaster Robin Sharp. Scored for solo violin, 10 string players, and two percussionists, Hailli Lirico (Lyric Prayer) was inspired by a set of prayers delivered by Inca rulers, a personal incantation with their god. The program will also include Mozart's delightful Serenata Notturno for strings and timpani, Steve Reich's jazz-inflected Nagoya Marimbas, and Bela Bartok's exciting musical journey through his native countryside, the popular Roumanian Folk Dances.
MAY 9: Gamble Garden Mother's Day Champagne Brunch in the Garden. Seatings at 10 AM or 12:30 PM. FEE: $65/adult, $50/child, all inclusive. Questions: http://www.gamblegarden.org or 329-1356 x201 Celebrate Mother's Day in the most gorgeous garden in Palo Alto. Enjoy sunshine, champagne, a Flamenco guitarist, and a Spanish inspired sumptuous buffet brunch on the patio.Guests can tour the gardens, feast alfresco on the Carriage House Patio, and then enjoy music and coffee on the Tea House Patio.
MAY 14: Caryll-Lynn Taylor, Midtown resident & volunteer for Deborah's Palm, an innovative center for women, invites us to the grand opening from noon to 6PM at 555 Lytton. Paula Sandas from the Camber of Commerce will open the ceremony , and Mayor Burt will cut the ribbon at 12:15 PM. Women in Silicon Valley face pariticular challenges as stress, isolation, a hectic pace of life and the climbing cost of living. This new center will offer a myriad of services geared for women and their daily issues. Support and assistance will be provided in a warm and inviting environment. Services will include professional counseling, resources, educational & recreational classes, circle/groups, mentoring & community service activities. See www.deborahspalm.org.
MAY 15: Palo Alto Women's Club Spring Kitchen Tour from 10 AM - 4 PM. Tour includes 5 great kitchens plus two Food Demos plus Raffle Tickets. FEE: Before May 8 $30, after $35. day of tickets available at 125 Southland Drive. Questions 269-3517 or www.womansclubofpaloalto.org.
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APRIL 23/24: Gamble Garden presents "Masterful Gardens over 25 Years". Spring tour 6 private gardens.
APRIL 24: League of Woman Voters forum for judgeship candidates from 2 to 4 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Palo Alto, 505 East Charleston Road. League of Women Voters of Palo Alto, 327-9148, www.lwvpaloalto.org.
APRIL 24: El Carmelo Elementary School is hosting our first ever "El Carmelo Creative Works Show & Sale!" from 10 AM to 3 PM in our MP room. Cost to participate is $10 plus 10% of sales. This El Carmelo Creative Works Show & Sale is our own creative fundraiser for the El Carmelo PTA, but most importantly it is an opportunity for all of us to get together and enjoy the magic of art all around us.Ana-Maria Dias, anamaria_am99@yahoo.com, 326-5854
APRIL 24: Sixth Annual Style Wearable Art Show & Sale at the Art Center. This year's show welcomes new artists from the Bay Area and beyond, as well as live models, and the opportunity to meet the artists. A key fundraiser for the Palo Alto Art Center Foundation, Style 2010 will benefit children’s art education programs.
APRIL 24-25: SPRING WILDFLOWER SHOW: April 24 & 25, 10 AM-4 PM, California Native Plant Society, Santa Clara Chapter, Mission College. Free.
APRIL 25: Family Day at the Cantor Art Center at Stanford from 11 AM-3 PM. Free.
APRIL 28: League of Woman Voters forum for the June 8 election for Santa Clara County district attorney, sheriff and superior court: 7. to 9 PM at the Los Altos Public Library, 13 South San Antonio Road. See above for contact info.
APRIL 29: Monthly USGS Lecture at 7:00 PM by USGS Geophysicists, Walter Mooney & Eric Geist. "Large, Destructive Earthquakes in Haiti and Chile -- Lessons Learned for the San Francisco Bay Area" For a flyer for the talk, & directions to the USGS, visit the Public Events Calendar Web site at: http://online.wr.usgs.gov/calendar
MAY 2: Environmental Volunteers invites you to Wild Quest, a scavenger hunt that takes a nature-based spin on the popular urban treasure hunts. Sign up as an individual or form a team. Adult tickets are $50, Youth (10 - 17) $20, Children 9 and under are Free. Buy event and raffle tickets now: http://www.evols.org/index.php?page=alias. For more, call 961-0545.
MAY 3, 15: Zoom In - Video Production made simple and social! - 16-hr workshop Full schedule & details: http://midpenmedia.org/zoomin/. For more, contact Becky Sanders, 494-8686 x 11, Zoom In Coordinator, and ask about our Zoom In Mixers and Screenings or check out our website. If you're ready to sign up today - contact Lupita at 494-8686 x 35.
MAY 8 & 9 and/or MAY 15 & 16: Rochelle Ford Open Studio from 10AM to 5 PM stop in to see her new sculptures at 1155 Waverley. www.metalsculptor.com
MAY 22, 2010: New Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance Elements – Calculations and Standards from 9:00 AM -noon; Instructor - Chris Todd; Cubberley Community Center - Room H-6.
JUNE 20: World Music Day from 3 - 7:30PM on University Ave. See http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/news/displaynews.asp?NewsID=1246&TargetID=268
JULY 5-9: An environmentally-themed summer day-camp for children in grades 1- 6 will be offered by the YMCA. Topics include: renewable energy, waste management, the meaning & benefits of 'going green', natural resources conservation & protection. For information, contact the YMCA at 856-9622. Online registration begins on January 25. http://www.paloaltofamilyymca.org
MIDTOWN BUSINESS/NEIGHBOR NEWS
Michael writes: Miraculously, there are two businesses that still provide good old fashioned service and an astonishing variety of stock in a small space. They are Peninsula Hardware on Middlefield in Midtown Palo Alto and Barron Park Supply on San Antonio. I've been an electrical contractor around here since 1975 so its gratifying to be able to do business with other than the impersonal big box home improvement stores, especially for my home projects and honeydo's.
Editorial: Peninsula Hardware now offers knife sharpening. Drop them off before and pick them up on sharpening day. Every Tuesday except fifth Tuesday.
Winter Lodge's annual spring show 2010 is titled "Winter Lodge celebrates around the world". The show is April 23, 24 and 25 starting at 7:00 PM on Friday and Saturday and 6:30 PM on Sunday. This is an outdoor event, so, dress warmly. Tickets are reserved seating and are $12.00 each. For more information visit www.winterlodge.com or for tickets come to Winter Lodge or call 493-4566.
MYGYM "Bring a Friend Deal" see www.mygym.com .
Midtown artist Clare:Check out art classes at www.PacificArtLeague.org or call 321-3891. I will be teaching the following two 2-day Hand Built Ceramics workshops: Fridays, May 7 & 21 from 1 - 3:30 PM and Saturdays, June 5 & 26 from 1 - 3:30 PM
Wonderful opportunity to explore the very flexible medium of clay.
Martha Castillo Clayprint Workshop: There is still space available in the workshop on April 17. ($125 plus materials.) or make it a 2-Day affair for only $75 more. Register for the Clayprint Workshop. Contact Martha at mail@marthacastillo.net or see http://www.marthacastillo.net/.
MRA General Meeting on Budget: See http://www.paloaltoonline.com/news/show_story.php?id=16454.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS:
* PAN (Palo Alto Neighborhood Block Preparedness Coordinator training May 8 at 10AM at Cubberly/Foothill campus. See www.paneighborhoods.org/ep. RSVP to epvolunteers@paneighborhoods.org.
* PANDA (Palo Alto Disaster Activity Classes) 20 hours starting Wednesdays on April 21. Choose 9 AM or 6:30 PM session. See http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/info/news/details.asp?NewsID=193&TargetID=60 for more. To register, call PAFD 617-3197.
CITY/COUNTY/SCHOOL EVENTS/NOTES
City Offer for LED Lighting: More Bulbs on the Way. Due to un-precedenced demand, all LED bulbs were gone in 2 days. City staff is purchasing an additional 1,000 dimmable LED bulbs to be sold at the advertised $8 price FOR ONE BULB ONLY. since only one of the bulbs is currently available. However, the additional shipment of bulbs will take roughly one month to arrive and will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis and will be limited to one bulb per customer/address.
Customers who are interested will be notified of the bulbs' arrival through an email to all customers who provide their email address by calling the Utilities Department at 329-2241 or emailing cpauresidential@cityofpaloalto.org. Please note that supplies will still be extremely limited and we cannot ensure everyone on the email list will receive the bulb. Please keep your original coupon to receive the bulbs at the stores when they arrive.
CITY OF PALO ALTO EARTH DAY ACTIVITIES: April 15-24, Visit City of Palo Alto for details. Some tidbits:
APRIL 21: Green Start on Your Home in Council Chambers at 7PM: What’s the buzz about “green” home improvements? Join us to hear about: Energy Efficiency, Solar Rebates & Related Programs, Rain Water Harvesting, Permeable Pavement, Sustainable Landscape Basics, and Green Homes, an Architect’s Perspective.
APRIL 22: Earth Day Hike at the Baylands, 5 PM, FREE! Take an evening hike with Ranger Rich as the sun sets on the 40th anniversary of Earth Day! Register www.cityofpaloalto.org/recreation/enjoy or at Lucie Stern using barcode 63889.
APRIL 22: Earth Day Panel on “It’s the Green Economy, Silly!” 7 PM Council Chambers. A spirited discussion on the emergence of the green economy in Palo Alto and its effect on our lives, moderated by Mayor Pat Burt.
APRIL 23: “Eco-Flicks”, 7:30 PM, Lucie Stern. Organized by former Mayor Peter Drekmeier and self-proclaimed Eco-Geek Matt Harnack, join us to watch these inspiring stories and discuss the environmental challenges we face.
The City of Palo Alto is currently recruiting for the Historic Resources Board. If you think you might be interested in serving on this board and you meet at least ONE of the criteria listed below send an email or call the City Clerk’s Office for more information. Please contact us if you are interested in serving on the Historic Resources Board and you own or occupy a category 1 or 2 historic structure, or a structure in a historic neighborhood, and/or you are an architect, a landscape architect, a building designer, or other design professional, and/or you have an academic education or practical experience in history or a related field. Applications are due on April 23, 2010 at 5:00 PM. If one of the incumbents does not reapply the deadline will extend to April 28, 2010 at 5:30 PM for non-incumbents. Contact ronna.gonsalves@cityofpaloalto.org, or call 329-2267, or visit our website at www.cityofpaloalto.org for more information.
City Council Agenda
APRIL 19: The session will be dedicated to environmental issues. 7:00 PM Study session on use of Expanded Polystyrene, Staff Update on Less-Toxic Pest Control, Staff Update on Zero Waste Programs for 2010. Last item is a colleagues memo Recommending that the Voters of Palo Alto Not Sign the Union Petition Seeking to Remove the Ability of the Council to Determine Appropriate Staffing Levels for the Fire Department. http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civica/filebank/blobdload.asp?BlobID=19766
Planning & Transportation Commission
OTHER FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS WITH TENTATIVE DATES:
APRIL 28: North Cal. Ave Safe Routes to School/Traffic Calming Project
PAUSD: Strong Schools Bond Projects
The Palo Alto Unified School District will host a Jordan Middle School Neighborhood Meeting to review schematic design and receive further input on projects for Jordan Middle School. The meeting will be conducted by AEDIS Architecture.
The meeting will be held at the Jordan Middle School Library located at 750 N. California Ave, Palo Alto, on Tuesday, April 20, 2010 at 6:30 PM.
The Palo Alto Unified School District will host a Terman Middle School Neighborhood Meeting to review schematic design and receive input on projects for Terman Middle School on Wednesday, April 21, 6:30 PM in the cafetorium.
They will discuss the design for the expansion for the library and administration building, new drama classroom building, renovations to the cafetorium building, and renovation of existing classrooms. The meeting will be conducted by AEDIS Architecture.
LOCAL EVENTS/NEWS
Upcoming City sponsored FREE Workshops on Saving Water in your Landscape:
April 17, 2010: Designing Water Efficient Landscaping from 1:30 - 4:30 PM; Instructor Patricia Evans; City of Palo Alto City Hall - Council Chambers
May 22, 2010: New Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance Elements -- Calculations and Standards from 9:00 AM -noon; Instructor - Chris Todd; Cubberley Community Center - Room H-6
APRIL 15: Media Center announces the 2010 Greenlight Film Festival at Cubberley Theatre at 7PM. The ceremony will be videotaped and broadcast on the Media Center’s Comcast Channel 28. A complete playback schedule of all entries and the awards program will be available at: www.midpenmedia.org. GREENLIGHT is a chance not only for the community to recognize local talent, but also to encourage the public to explore their impact on the environment, beyond recycling. Palo Alto winners include HIGH SCHOOL CATEGORY: 9 Ways to Go Green, by Colin Marchon, Haelin Cho, Charlotte Barry, (Palo Alto); The Green Life, by Hamilton Yu, (Palo Alto); OPEN CATEGORY: Fossil Fuel Free Film, Produced by Matt Harnack, (Palo Alto) & Lunch in a Can, Produced by Jim Skinner, (Palo Alto)
APRIL 16/17/18: Menlo Park Sidewalk Fine Arts Festival: www.pacificfinearts.com
APRIL 17: Gardening from the Ground Up Workshop from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM/ Healthy soil is the foundation of a healthy garden. Understanding your soil will help you grow a blossoming garden this season and for seasons to come. Backyard composting, sheet mulching basics and other soil building techniques will be covered during this workshop. There is a $20 fee for this workshop, which includes a Bay Friendly Gardening book. After attending this workshop, Palo Alto residents will receive a voucher for a Biostack compost bin. This workshop will be held at the Palo Alto Art Center Auditorium. To enroll in the workshop call 408/918-4640. http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/pwd/recycle/news/details.asp?NewsID=367&TargetID=179
APRIL 17: To honor Palo Alto's Sister City in Sweden, Neighbors Abroad is celebrating Linkoping Day on Saturday, April 17, 2-4 PM, with a free public event at the Palo Alto Art Center. The annual event will have a green tint this year. Anna Evander, a Swedish environmental engineer, will speak on climate change and former Palo Alto Mayor Peter Drekmeier will discuss how Palo Alto is doing. Swedish folk music will be provided by accordionist Julianne Stafford with two violinist friends. Coffee and cookies will be served. Linkoping became one of Palo Alto's Sister Cities in 1967. Palo Alto's five other Sister Cities are Palo, Leyte, Philippines; Oxaca, Mexico; Enschede, the Netherlands; Albi, France; and Tsuchiura, Japan.
APRIL 18: JCC presents: Konstantin Lifschitz in Concert from 7:00 - 9:30 PM in the Cultural Hall. FEE:$30 M, $35 NM in advance; $35 Ms, $40 NM at the door. Come experience the magic of Lifschitz, celebrated for his exquisite musical sensibility and nuanced playing. Critics praise his ability to evoke profound emotions and his distinctive interpretations filled with dramatic flair and gracefulness. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/85247
APRIL 18: Cal Ave market goes green! Enjoy farm fresh produce and chat with local vendors. After shopping, visit the information booths to learn about the City’s many environmental rebates and programs, as well as local non-profits. Come to the fair to a) Get FREE “green” stuff like a CFL, hose spray nozzle, and more! b) Enter the Rain Barrel raffle, c) Bring the kids to the Children’s Area for games and face painting, d) Ask the arborist about your specific tree troubles and e) Bring your mercury-filled thermometers and expired pharmaceuticals for safe and convenient disposal at our “take back” table.
APRIL 21: JCC presents Author Jeffrey Zaslow: The Girls From Ames from 7:00 - 9:30 PM in the Cultural Hall. FEE: $15 M, $20 NM in advance. http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/85248. A Story of Women & A Forty-Year Friendship," is the inspiring story of eleven girls and the ten women they became. The girls, now in their forties, have a lifetime of memories in common, some evocative of their generation and some that will resonate with any woman who has ever had a friend.
APRIL 23/24: Gamble Garden presents "Masterful Gardens over 25 Years". Spring tour 6 private gardens.
APRIL 24: League of Woman Voters forum for judgeship candidates from 2 to 4 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Palo Alto, 505 East Charleston Road. League of Women Voters of Palo Alto, 327-9148, www.lwvpaloalto.org.
APRIL 25: Family Day at the Cantor Art Center at Stanford from 11 AM?3 PM. Free event open to the public, with free parking on weekends. Family Day brings Chinese culture to life?highlighting the exhibition Tracing the Past, Drawing the Future: Master Ink Painters in 20th-Century China?through culturally inspired art projects, music, dance, and storytelling. For children of all ages. Activities include: Art projects: Ink drawings, dragon puppets, opera masks, blossom trees, and build the Great Wall of China; Entertainment: lion dancers, tea ceremony, and storytelling; Family-friendly food available for purchase (cash only), or bring your own picnic
APRIL 28: League of Woman Voters forum for the June 8 election for Santa Clara County district attorney, sheriff and superior court: 7. to 9 PM at the Los Altos Public Library, 13 South San Antonio Road. See above for contact info.
MAY 3, 15: Zoom In - Video Production made simple and social! The Media Center's Zoom In video workshop and video production collaborative gives you the chance to learn something new and join a vibrant community. Zoom In gives video makers of all levels of experience the chance to contribute to local media coverage and make a difference. Start with the Fast Track Video Production workshop where you will learn the basics to starting your own video - camera, lighting, audio, editing, producing, web publishing, and more! The 16-hr workshop is offered next month starting on the following dates: May 3rd, May 15th! See website for the full schedule & details: http://midpenmedia.org/zoomin/. Sign up for the workshop for only $100 and for an extra $50 you can receive full Zoom In membership - including unlimited free equipment and facilities access and other perks! Once you finish the workshop - you will be introduced to a community of other videomakers of all levels of experience! Learn alongside other beginners and receive mentorship from experienced videographers! Connect with a project already underway or pitch your own idea! For more, contact Becky Sanders, 494-8686 x 11, Zoom In Coordinator, and ask about our Zoom In Mixers and Screenings or check out our website. If you're ready to sign up today - contact Lupita at 494-8686 x 35.
MAY 8 & 9 and/or MAY 15 & 16: Rochelle Ford Open Studio from 10AM to 5 PM stop in to see her new sculptures at 1155 Waverley. www.metalsculptor.com
JUNE 20: World Music Day from 3 - 7:30PM on University Ave. See http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/news/displaynews.asp?NewsID=1246&TargetID=268
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Take the 2010 Drive Less Challenge! APRIL 22 – May 5th. Volunteers and Sponsors Wanted! This innovative, grassroots event encourages residents and employees to shop locally and provides volunteers and business sponsors an opportunity to contribute and communicate support for climate protection. Sign up to sponsor, volunteer or participate at: http://www.drivelesschallenge.com
Common Ground Classes: 559 College Avenue see http://www.commongroundinpaloalto.org/upcomingclasses.htm
APRIL 17: "START AN EARTH DAY SALAD GARDEN" with Jody Main from 10:30 - 12:30. Fee: $31 + $5 materials fee . Registration 493-6072 or http://earthdaygarden.eventbrite.com.
APRIL 17: COMPLETE-DIET MINI-FARMING with John Jeavons from 2:00 - 4:00PM. FEE: $31. Registration: http://completediet.eventbrite.com or call 493-6072.
APRIL 15: "Longevity Enhancement by Management of Disturbed Metabolism " sponsored by Smart Life Forum. Free to $10. For more: see http://www.smartlifeforum.org or events@smartlifeforum.org or 941-3058. When/Where Cubberley H1 from 7 - 9:30 PM.
APRIL 15: Avenidas is proud to introduce a new series of Stanford Medical Lectures, the first of which will take place from 2-3 PM. The speaker will be Bryant Lin, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor, Medicine, General Internal Medicine, Stanford Hospitals and Clinics. His presentation is entitled: "High Cholesterol," and he will discuss ways to prevent and treat this condition. This educational event is free and no advance registration is required. Questions? Call 289-5453. 50 Bryant St. or see www.avenidas.org
16: Gamble Garden Kid's Earth Day Event (FREE!) from 2:00 - 4:00 PM. Celebrate Earth Day at Gamble Garden! Please join them in the garden to celebrate the upcoming Earth Day. Stop by anytime between 2:00 - 4:00 PM. Families with children of all ages are welcome to take part in some fun and simple garden activities including a garden scavenger hunt and art projects, and then enjoy juice and cookies under the Grand Oak Tree.
APRIL 16: Art Center "3000 Years in the History of Mexican Art", A special presentation by Gregorio Luke at 7:30 - 9:00 PM in the Auditorium. Free to the public: Limited seating, advanced registration advised email artcenter or call 329.2367
APRIL 17: "Hire Yourself! How to start a business" For those frustrated with the current job market and want to try starting their own business instead, this is a panel consisting of a startup attorney and 3 entrepreneurs who will share their experiences and the steps for starting a business. Sat April 17 9 AM – 2 PM at Peninsula Bible Church, 3505 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto. More details at http://www.pbc.org/events/93089
APRIL 18: EARTH DAY FARMERS MARKET CELEBRATION ON CAL. AVE.from 9 AM-1 PM. Canopy's Ask The Arborist table on California Ave - 9 AM to 1 PM: Tree Walks around Cal. Ave. with Arborist Dave Muffly - 10 AM & 12 AM.
APRIL 18: Peninsula Women's Chorus presents: New Music for Treble Voices Festival from 4:00 - 6:00 PM at the All Saints' Episcopal Church at 555 Waverley Street. See http://www.asaints.org. FEE: $20/general admission; $15/student & senior admission; $10/student rush tickets at the door only and subject to availability. http://www.pwchorus.org
APRIL 18: Earth Day Peace and Social Justice Craft and Information Fair from 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM. First Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto at 1140 Cowper Street (corner of Lincoln). FREE. Celebrate the great work being done by organizations in our community & around the world! For more contact: Craig Wiesner craig@micahscall.org or visit the event web page at: http://www.peaceandjustice.org/ article.php/ earthday2010
APRIL 24: El Carmelo Elementary School is hosting our first ever "El Carmelo Creative Works Show & Sale!" from 10 AM to 3 PM in our MP room. Cost to participate is $10 plus 10% of sales. This El Carmelo Creative Works Show & Sale is our own creative fundraiser for the El Carmelo PTA, but most importantly it is an opportunity for all of us to get together and enjoy the magic of art all around us.Ana-Maria Dias, anamaria_am99@yahoo.com, 326-5854
APRIL 24: Sixth Annual Style Wearable Art Show & Sale at the Art Center. This year's show welcomes new artists from the Bay Area and beyond, as well as live models, and the opportunity to meet the artists. A key fundraiser for the Palo Alto Art Center Foundation, Style 2010 will benefit children’s art education programs.
APRIL 24-25: SPRING WILDFLOWER SHOW: April 24 & 25, 10 AM-4 PM, California Native Plant Society, Santa Clara Chapter, Mission College. Free.
APRIL 29: Monthly USGS Lecture at 7:00 PM by USGS Geophysicists, Walter Mooney & Eric Geist. "Large, Destructive Earthquakes in Haiti and Chile -- Lessons Learned for the San Francisco Bay Area" For a flyer for the talk, & directions to the USGS, visit the Public Events Calendar Web site at: http://online.wr.usgs.gov/calendar
MAY 2: Environmental Volunteers invites you to Wild Quest, a scavenger hunt that takes a nature-based spin on the popular urban treasure hunts. Sign up as an individual or form a team. Adult tickets are $50, Youth (10 - 17) $20, Children 9 and under are Free. Buy event and raffle tickets now: http://www.evols.org/index.php?page=alias. For more, call 961-0545.
JULY 5-9: An environmentally-themed summer day-camp for children in grades 1- 6 will be offered by the YMCA. Topics include: renewable energy, waste management, the meaning & benefits of 'going green', natural resources conservation & protection. For information, contact the YMCA at 856-9622. Online registration begins on January 25. http://www.paloaltofamilyymca.org
MIDTOWN BUSINESS/NEIGHBOR NEWS
Next MRA General Meeting will be Tuesday April 13, at the Friends Meeting Hall. "The City Budget Process and Your Input" with City Manager Jim Keene.
Please consider coming with your friends & neighbors, to discuss your priorities with Jim. MRA Steering Committee member Jeb Eddy sends his comments:
"I attended part of a meeting of the College Terrace Residents Association, with about 60 people at the Escondido School. I went with the specific intent of talking with the person who is heading up their neighborhood "green" activities; and I then sat for ~30 minutes listening to our City Manager, Jim Keene, make a very informative and well done presentation about the deficits the City is facing now and in coming years. Some City Council and Chamber of Commerce representatives were there.
By the time Jim comes to talk with our MRA General Meeting on Tuesday, April 13th, he will have presented to the City Council some alternatives for spending and service cuts. There will be extensive publicity, discussions and opportunities for community input before a final budget is adopted. Neither Jim, nor the Council, nor City employees and unions, nor we residents will like much of what has to be done with respect to finances and services. Think Police, Fire, Public Works, Libraries, Parks and Recreation, and others -- the financial problems are real and deep, the solutions require change. A videotape recording will be made of Jim's presentation, and a link will be posted on the MRA website. To hear it from the source, and to ask questions, you are invited to come to this MRA event."
VOLUNTEER: Volunteers are needed for the Bay Area Senior Games in the Hospitality, Awards Presentations, Registration, Rovers, General Operations and Sports Specific Duties (especially in track and field). Shifts are generally 7:30 AM - noon and noon - 5 PM each day. Volunteers will receive an official yellow Bay Area Senior Games Tee Shirt. Please visit www.bayareaseniorgames.org and sign up to volunteer or download the volunteer application and fax to the office at 323.9403.
CITY/COUNTY/SCHOOL EVENTS/NOTES
CITY OF PALO ALTO EARTH DAY ACTIVITIES: April 15-24, Visit City of Palo Alto for details.
The latest monthly summary of Planning and Transportation Division projects and activities can be found on the City's website at http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/pln/news/details.asp?NewsID=613&TargetID=85
High Speed Rail Authority Board Meeting - Thursday, April 8, 9 AM in Board of Supervisors Chambers, 70 West Hedding Street, San Jose, CA 95110 – This monthly meeting of the HSR Board provides an opportunity for citizens to give public comment directly to the Board. At this meeting, the Authority will hear a presentation on the Alternatives Analysis for San Francisco to San Jose High Speed Train Project EIR including specific information about what the project might look like going through Palo Alto (whether it is elevated, at-grade, in a trench or in a tunnel). For additional information, City of Palo Alto website: http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/business/news/details.asp?NewsID=1223&TargetID=5
Peninsula Cities Consortium: www.peninsularail.com; California High Speed Rail Authority: http://www.cahighspeedrail.ca.gov; Californians Advocating Responsible Rail Design (CARRD): www.calhsr.com
The City of Palo Alto is currently recruiting for the Historic Resources Board. If you think you might be interested in serving on this board and you meet at least ONE of the criteria listed below send an email or call the City Clerk’s Office for more information. Please contact us if you are interested in serving on the Historic Resources Board and you own or occupy a category 1 or 2 historic structure, or a structure in a historic neighborhood, and/or you are an architect, a landscape architect, a building designer, or other design professional, and/or you have an academic education or practical experience in history or a related field. Applications are due on April 23, 2010 at 5:00 PM. If one of the incumbents does not reapply the deadline will extend to April 28, 2010 at 5:30 PM for non-incumbents. Contact ronna.gonsalves@cityofpaloalto.org, or call 329-2267, or visit our website at www.cityofpaloalto.org for more information.
City Council Agenda
APRIL 12: Study session Study session proposed budget
APRI 15: High Speed Rail City Council Committee - 8:30 – 10:00 AM in the Council Conference Room. Agenda at http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civica/filebank/blobdload.asp?BlobID=19662
City Council Policy and Services
APRIL 13: Review of Stanford Renewal project - fiscal Impact & project development agreement at 7PM in Council Chambers
Planning & Transportation Commission
OTHER FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS WITH TENTATIVE DATES:
APRIL 28: North Cal. Ave Safe Routes to School/Traffic Calming Project
PAUSD: Strong Schools Bond Projects
The Palo Alto Unified School District will host a Jordan Middle School Neighborhood Meeting to review schematic design and receive further input on projects for Jordan Middle School. The meeting will be conducted by AEDIS Architecture.
The meeting will be held at the Jordan Middle School Library located at 750 N. California Ave, Palo Alto, on Tuesday, April 20, 2010 at 6:30 PM.
LOCAL EVENTS/NEWS
Upcoming City sponsored FREE Workshops on Saving Water in your Landscape:
-- April 17, 2010: Designing Water Efficient Landscaping from 1:30 - 4:30 PM; Instructor Patricia Evans; City of Palo Alto City Hall - Council Chambers
-- May 22, 2010: New Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance Elements – Calculations and Standards from 9:00 AM -noon; Instructor - Chris Todd; Cubberley Community Center - Room H-6
Take the 2010 Drive Less Challenge! APRIL 22 – May 5th. We all have a role in protecting our climate, especially when it comes to reducing car travel, the largest source of carbon emissions on the Peninsula. The Drive Less Challenge is a fun way to start by leaving your car behind to take alternative transport to work, school, shopping or your other local destinations. Participants use and on-line, game-like trip log to compete with friends, neighbors, and co-workers - or just challenge themselves - by taking a bus, train, carpool, bike or just walking to your destination. We all win by reducing our community's greenhouse gas footprint so please join us on the Drive Less Challenge 2010 and see how much you and your communities can do to keep the earth cool! Volunteers and Sponsors Wanted! This innovative, grassroots event encourages residents and employees to shop locally and provides volunteers and business sponsors an opportunity to contribute and communicate support for climate protection. Sign up to sponsor, volunteer or participate at: http://www.drivelesschallenge.com
Common Ground Classes: 559 College Avenue see http://www.commongroundinpaloalto.org/upcomingclasses.htm
APRIL 10: "GRAFTING" with James Kern from, 10:30 - 12:30. FEE: $35. Register by calling 493-6072 or http://grafting.eventbrite.com. Scionwood will be available for each student! Learn about grafting and the important role it plays in plant and tree production. In this class we will overview grafting and budding techniques used today and practice grafting that you can use on your own trees There will be several varieties of grafting wood, or scionwood available for you to build your own plum, peach, pear, or heritage apple tree. Rootstocks and grafting knives will be available for purchase. James Kern has a background in botany and works locally as a landscape contractor. He also teaches part-time at Foothill College and is a member of the California Rare Fruit Growers Association.
APRIL 17: "START AN EARTH DAY SALAD GARDEN" with Jody Main from 10:30 - 12:30. Fee: $31 + $5 materials fee . To register call 493-6072 or http://earthdaygarden.eventbrite.com. Celebrate Earth Day by growing bountiful crops of sweet buttery lettuce, spicy scallions, peppery radishes, and other crispy greens throughout the spring and early summer. A small bed can keep a family of four in bountiful salads that can include: Italian misticanza, arugula, radicchio, French mesclun, chervil, endive, frisé, Asian baby greens, bok choy, mizuna and spinach. Create a mix of braising greens by growing kale, chard and spinach together. Class includes easy planting, harvesting and kitchen preparation instructions. A salad and dressing demonstration, snack and recipes will be provided. Jody is a local organic food and garden writer, educator, and consultant. Her specialty is designing gardens that include vegetables, herbs and berry gardens. APRIL 17: COMPLETE-DIET MINI-FARMING with John Jeavons from 2:00 - 4:00PM. FEE: $31. Registration: http://completediet.eventbrite.com or call 493-6072. Does your desire for better nutrition have you wondering if you could live off your land? This class will show you how to plan a garden or mini-farm that will produce healthy, nutritious food and be highly productive as well as truly sustainable in the smallest space possible. John is the Executive Director of Ecology Action and the author of our book How to Grow More Vegetables, which has been translated into seven languages and is used in over 141 countries.
APRIL 9: In response to the popularity of the Peak Performance Lectures at the 2009 Summer National Senior Games, the Bay Area Senior Games (April 10 – 13) will host a one-day Health & Peak Performance Conference to open the Games on from 9 AM to 7 PM at Stanford University. "The missing dialogue in our national debate on health care is personal responsibility", says Midtown resident Anne Warner Cribbs, 1960 Olympian and CEO of the Bay Area Senior Games. "At this conference we offer information and discussion to empower our choices and fuel our vision for living a long and healthy life." The conference features four sessions with local experts, a luncheon discussion with Olympians and the West Coast premiere of award-winning documentary film maker Dorothy Fadiman's Meeting the Challenge. Wally Bortz, author of "Dare to be 100" will appear at the evening's reception. Lecturers include Stanford physician Josh Knowles, MD; Rita Ghatak, PhD, Director of Aging Adult Services at Stanford Hospital & Clinics; Olympian Marilyn King and a report on the Senior Games Genome Project by Nick Erikkson, scientist at 23andMe. Location: Avery Rehearsal Hall next to Aquatic Center. Attendance is open to the community. Pre-registration is required as space is limited to 150 people. FEE: $30 and includes four lectures, lunch, and evening reception. For more information and to register visit www.bayareaseniorgames.org.
APRIL 10: Canopy walk at Gamble Garden with Leading Arborist Barrie Coate. Meet at the Carriage House at 1431 Waverley Street. From 10 AM-12 PM. Rain or shine. Free.
APRIL 11: Palo Alto Historical Association and Palo Alto History Museum will present oral histories of 6 Palo Altans -Ellen Fletcher, Tom Jordan, Enid Pearson, Emily Renzel, Ellen Wyman, and Tom Wyman - who substantially changed Palo Alto through their activism and organizing in the last half of the 20th century - and are still having an impact today. FREE. When/Where: 2 PM at Lucie Stern Community Center
APRIL 11: Palo Alto Art Center. Free Family day. Join them for a special community day celebration in conjunction with the Palo Alto Art Center’s exhibition, Treasures from The Mexican Museum: A Spirited Legacy. Enjoy hands-on art activities, food, and a special performance by Los Cenzontles. Fun for the whole family! Family Art Activities: 2-4 PM. Performance by Los Cenzontles: 4-5 PM. Food for purchase by The Oaxacan Kitchen
APRIL 11: Time again for the Woodside band's annual spring concert; Time: 3 PM. Place: Woodside Church, on Woodside Road. Parking lot across the street at Woodside Elementary School. Reception afterward; always lots of delicious food.
APRIL 12: Stanford Cafe Scientifique lecture series is now in its second year . To stay relevant to the community which they serve, they are proud to announce the expansion of talks to include non-scientific topics, such as the arts, sports, and entertainment. The science series will continue to be held bi-monthly on the last Thursday of the month. The non science series will be held on alternate months. This month in conjunction with the Stanford Alpine Club, they present an evening with a world class rock climber, Hans Florine from 7:30 - 9 PM at the Stanford Blood Center 3373 Hillview. .FREE: Refreshments will be served.
APRIL 15: "Longevity Enhancement by Management of Disturbed Metabolism " sponsored by Smart Life Forum. The stress-related wear and tear on the body which we attribute to aging is a manifestation of diminished rates of repair. The universal feature of aging in all advanced life-forms is impaired insulin signaling. In humans, the medical condition found with "insulin resistance" is The Metabolic Syndrome. Insulin resistance is an underlying feature of virtually all aging-related conditions. Our best insurance policy is to follow a rational program to manage insulin resistance in order to optimize and maintain metabolism at a more youthful level. The Lifespan Institute has integrated advances in physiology, nutrition, and clinical testing to address disturbed metabolism associated with aging. Free to $10. For more: see http://www.smartlifeforum.org or events@smartlifeforum.org or 941-3058. When/Where Cubberley H1 from 7 - 9:30 PM.
APRIL 15: Unveiling new Stanford Medical Lecture Series Avenidas is proud to introduce a new series of Stanford Medical Lectures, the first of which will take place from 2-3 PM. The speaker will be Bryant Lin, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor, Medicine, General Internal Medicine, Stanford Hospitals and Clinics. His presentation is entitled: "High Cholesterol," and he will discuss ways to prevent and treat this condition. This educational event is free and no advance registration is required. Questions? Call 289-5453. 50 Bryant St. or see www.avenidas.org
APRIL 15: Media Center announces the 2010 Greenlight Film Festival at Cubberley Theatre at 7PM. This year, almost 3 hours worth of short films were submitted. The judges have their work cut out for them to whittle the submissions down to the top three in each category - Middle School, High School and Open. These film projects explore environmental citizenship and underscore how individual actions can transform the health of our planet. Come on out and support our planet, meet our green filmmakers and see some great short films.
16: Gamble Garden Kid's Earth Day Event (FREE!) from 2:00 - 4:00 PM. Celebrate Earth Day at Gamble Garden! Please join them in the garden to celebrate the upcoming Earth Day. Stop by anytime between 2:00 - 4:00 PM. Families with children of all ages are welcome to take part in some fun and simple garden activities including a garden scavenger hunt and art projects, and then enjoy juice and cookies under the Grand Oak Tree.
APRIL 16: Art Center "3000 Years in the History of Mexican Art", A special presentation by Gregorio Luke at 7:30 - 9:00 PM in the Auditorium. Presented on the closing weekend of the Art Center’s Treasures from the Mexican Museum: A Spirited Legacy, this illustrated lecture talks about 3,000 years of inspiring Mexican art; from Mayan and Aztec creations to the work of internationally acclaimed modern artists, who include Rufino Tamayo and Frida Kahlo. Free to the public: Limited seating, advanced registration advised email artcenter or call 329.2367
APRIL 17: "Hire Yourself! How to start a business" For those frustrated with the current job market and want to try starting their own business instead, this is a panel consisting of a startup attorney and 3 entrepreneurs who will share their experiences and the steps for starting a business. Sat April 17 9 AM – 2 PM at Peninsula Bible Church, 3505 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto. More details at http://www.pbc.org/events/93089
APRIL 18: EARTH DAY FARMERS MARKET CELEBRATION ON CAL. AVE.from 9 AM-1 PM. Canopy's Ask The Arborist table on California Ave - 9 AM to 1 PM: Tree Walks around Cal. Ave. with Arborist Dave Muffly - 10 AM & 12 AM.
APRIL 18: Earth Day Peace and Social Justice Craft and Information Fair from 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM. First Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto at 1140 Cowper Street (corner of Lincoln). FREE. Celebrate the great work being done by organizations in our community & around the world! Toys - Fair Trade Crafts - Books - Art - Music - DVDs - Games - Puzzles - Jewelry - Decorations. For more contact: Craig Wiesner craig@micahscall.org or visit the event web page at:
http://www.peaceandjustice.org/article.php/earthday2010
* Learn new ideas for reducing your carbon footprint
* Learn about great social justice & peacemaking organizations!
* Shop for goods from organizations doing good in the world
* Enjoy free snacks & beverages from locally grown food suppliers
APRIL 24: El Carmelo Elementary School is hosting our first ever "El Carmelo Creative Works Show & Sale!" from 10 AM to 3 PM in our MP room. This is an opportunity for our community to showcase their creative talents. Items made by our talented community will be on sale with the proceeds benefiting El Carmelo school. Please visit our show and see what treasurers await! You might just find the perfect piece of jewelry or art! For those wishing to be part of the show and sell their creative items please contact Ana-Maria. Cost to participate is $10 plus 10% of sales. This El Carmelo Creative Works Show & Sale is our own creative fundraiser for the El Carmelo PTA, but most importantly it is an opportunity for all of us to get together and enjoy the magic of art all around us. Ana-Maria Dias, anamaria_am99@yahoo.com, 326-5854
APRIL 24: Sixth Annual Style 2010! Palo Alto's spectacular Wearable Art Show & Sale at the Art Center. Featuring unique artisan-made clothing, jewelry and accessories. This year's show welcomes new artists from the Bay Area and beyond, as well as live models, and the opportunity to meet the artists. This fun day is a MUST for fashionistas and collectors alike. Discover the inspired design and originality of wearable art created by over 35 acclaimed artists from Northern California and around the country. You’re sure to find one-of-a kind wearable art to add pizzazz and personal expression to any wardrobe. A key fundraiser for the Palo Alto Art Center Foundation, Style 2010 will benefit children’s art education programs. When you wear something from Style 2010, be prepared to be continuously asked, “Where’d you get that?”
APRIL 24-25: SPRING WILDFLOWER SHOW: April 24 & 25, 10 AM-4 PM, California Native Plant Society, Santa Clara Chapter, Mission College. Free.
APRIL 29: Monthly USGS Lecture at 7:00 PM by USGS Geophysicists, Walter Mooney & Eric Geist. "Large, Destructive Earthquakes in Haiti and Chile -- Lessons Learned for the San Francisco Bay Area" April has been designated as Earthquake Awareness Month in California. Come support this month-long endeavor to increase public awareness of earthquake risk and probability where we live. Find out why the January earthquake in Haiti is on record as being the 4th deadliest in history, and what scientists have learned from the magnitude 8.8 Chilean mega-earthquake -- the 5th largest ever recorded. Learn what scientists have discovered from satellite observations and field investigations of these disastrous earthquakes, and hear whether the San Francisco Bay Area is prepared for our next large earthquake. For a flyer for the talk, & directions to the USGS, visit the Public Events Calendar Web site at: http://online.wr.usgs.gov/calendar
MAY 2: May 2 - Unleash your inner adventurer! Environmental Volunteers invites you to Wild Quest, a scavenger hunt that takes a nature-based spin on the popular urban treasure hunts. Wild Quest will challenge participants to decode eco-puzzles in a competitive but family-friendly afternoon event at the Palo Alto Baylands nature preserve. The 1:00 – 4:00 PM event includes the game, followed by food and wine, raffle, auction and prizes. Sign up as an individual or form a team. Adult tickets are $50, Youth (10 – 17) $20, Children 9 and under are Free. Buy event and raffle tickets now: http://www.evols.org/index.php?page=alias
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APRIL 9: Canopy sponsors SHARING NATURE WITH CHILDREN TALK: 7-8:30 PM, Lecture with Joseph Cornell. Living Wisdom School. Free. APRIL 9-14: The Fourth Bay Area Senior Games will take place on the Stanford Campus and in neighboring cities. The Games give anyone age 50 and up the opportunity to compete against their peers in 14 sports: Just as important, the Senior Games are helping to build a community of adults who are actively engaged in maintaining their health and modeling an active lifestyle for their children and grandchildren. Stay tuned. APRIL 11: The Early History of Los Altos and Los Altos Hills, a slide show presentation at Los Altos History Museum (LAHM) at 3:30 PM at the Los Altos Library. FREE: It will be followed by books signing, sales, and reception at LAHM (next door to the library). Copies of the book may be pre-ordered at www.losaltoshistory.org. APRIL 18: Peninsula Women's Chorus presents: New Music for Treble Voices Festival from 4:00 - 6:00 PM at the All Saints' Episcopal Church at 555 Waverley Street. See http://www.asaints.org. FEE: $20/general admission; $15/student & senior admission; $10/student rush tickets at the door only and subject to availability.http://www.pwchorus.org
JULY 5-9: An environmentally-themed summer day-camp for children in grades 1- 6 will be offered by the YMCA. Topics include: renewable energy, waste management, the meaning & benefits of 'going green', natural resources conservation & protection. For information, contact the YMCA at 856-9622. Online registration begins on January 25. http://www.paloaltofamilyymca.org
Media Center
Creative summer activities for your teen Digiquest Camp is a series of digital media production workshops for youth presented by the nonprofit, Midpeninsula Community Media Center. In week-long sessions, participants work in teams to create TV shows, video shorts, and animations! The Digiquest workshops - now in their sixth year - provide an educational and fun environment where participants make new friends and learn new skills. Their works are broadcast on the Media Center local cable TV channels and the participants will be honored at the end of the summer in a Screening & Awards Ceremony.
This summer, there are six camps available and a new Advanced Animation camp for our experienced students. Other changes for 2010 include reduced rates and discounts. Digiquest instructors are professional videographers, producers and directors from the industry. Visit midpenmedia.org/digiquest/ for more information and registration forms.
July 12-16 Movie Production
July 19-23 Movie Edit
July 26-30 Advanced Animation
Aug 2-6 Movie Production
Aug 2-6 Studio Production
Aug 9-13 Studio Production
TIPS
From U South News: Go Easy on the Detergent in the washer and dishwasher: It seems that most of us are using way too much detergent doing the dishes and washing clothes. "our dishes and clothes may not be coming out as clean as they could be. And we may also be damaging the machines." http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/13/your-money/13shortcuts.html?src=me&ref=general
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