| Midtown News Updates |
MIDTOWN BUSINESS/NEIGHBOR NEWS:
PLEASE SEND YOUR NEWS IN AT LEAST ONE WEEK BEFORE YOU WANT IT PUBLISHED
Families with children in PAUSD schools are quite aware that school started this week, but here's an important reminder for us all: Use extra caution and "give kids a brake!" each morning and afternoon to help encourage more families to choose walking and biking to school more often.
And if you live on a corner lot, check that drivers can see not just the cross traffic but also children coming around the corner. Also, this is a good time to check that your sidewalk is kept clear of parked cars as well as intruding branches of bushes or trees -- it's not only required by municipal code, but a neighborly thing to do for pedestrians of all ages. And please spread the word to neighbors who might need a friendly nudge in this direction.
See this vintage code enforcement flyer for more: http://www.ctra.org/images/jungle.jpg
SAVE THESE DATES: Please note that Midtown Residents invites you and your neighbors to these events. Since not everyone in Midtown receives enews, we would be most pleased if you share with your neighbors.
MIDTOWN RESIDENTS ICE CREAM SOCIAL September 14 from 1:00 PM at Hoover Park
Friends Meeting has their annual Harvest Festival the last Saturday in September
Friends Nursery School has their Rummage Sale on October 4th
MIDTOWN MERCHANTS - October Fest at Midtown Centre on October 18 from 11AM to 4 PM
MIDTOWN ICE CREAM SOCIAL on September 14th from 1-4 PM at Hoover Park will feature music by the Celtic Rose, kids games, booths with information on the library proposal, going green, fire tips, great conversation, ice cream. Contests with prizes from Midtown Merchants - Midtown Shoe repair, Christine Skin and Body treatment, Opal'z, Sophia's, Indochine, gift bag from Carla Cumpston, My Gym,and Butterfly Life.
MIDTOWN MERCHANTS FESTIVAL: As part of the upcoming Midtown Festival scheduled for October 18th from 11AM to 4 PM, your local merchants are inviting area residents to display for sale their artwork and handicrafts. Each vendor will be responsible for their own table, proof of insurance and appropriate licenses. For further information please contact Carla Cumpston at Edward Jones, 321-8586.
MYGYM Midtown Fitness Center Open House: AUGUST 31- 2-6 PM. 2655 Middlefield 330-1760
CRIME UPDATE
CALIFORNIA AVE. CALTRAIN STATION UPGRADE NEWS:
Here's a heads-up announcement from Caltrain about their project to construct an underpass allowing passengers to board northbound trains safely from the east side of the tracks and provide other improvements:
"From Monday, Aug. 25 to Friday, Aug. 29, during the day, Caltrain crews will continue to work during the day at the California Avenue station on concrete flatwork and utility trenching. In addition, from 10:30 PM, Friday, Aug. 29 until 10 PM, Monday, Sept. 1, crews will rebuild the tracks at the California Avenue station." If you are using Alma Street during this time, watch for heavy truck activity accessing and exiting the project site near where Alma crosses over Oregon Expressway. For more info on the construction projects at both Univ. Ave and Calif. Ave stations, see http://www.caltrain.com/capital_project_palo_alto_stations.html.
Want to learn more about the Sea Scout Building plans and renovation: It is the 4th item on the agenda, so by fast forwarding you can find the correct place and see the comprehensive presentation on the building's current condition and exactly what is to be done. According to the PA Daily News, construction will start in October.
http://communitymediacenter.net/watch/pacc_webcast/August/PAHRB_080608.html
Palo Alto Resources 101: Family Resources
Ambassadors: These folks share information about the resources available to our community, helping families find services they need every day in the categories of emergency / crisis, basic needs, child care, community resources, disability resources, health care, mental health & counseling. The Ambassador Development Program offers information about resources, and tools for finding information more effectively. Ambassadors meet and learn from service providers and community leaders. Participants meet once a month for 6 months, October thru March. Meetings are the first Thursdays from 8:40 - 12:45 at Cubberley.
To apply, contact Erwin Gonzales at 329-2221 or erwin.gonzales@cityofpaloalto.org.
SEPTEMBER 10: Planning & Transportation Commission will discuss hold a public hearing on Byxbee Park Composting and Proposal for the Ming's Site at its 7:00 PM meeting. Recent news stories on this subject are found at http://www.paloaltoonline.com/news/show_story.php?id=9080
and http://www.paloaltodailynews.com/article/2008-8-27-pa-compost.
Citizens Police Academy: Oct 1 - Nov 19; Weds from 6-9 PM. Contact: Susie Ord susie.ord@cityofpaloalto.org 329-2632.
http://www.papd.org.
CITY/COUNTY/SCHOOL EVENTS/NOTES
VISIT THE SUNSET IDEA HOUSE: Final Open House Weekends August 22 24 and 29 31 9:00 am 6:00PM. Easy parking at Sunset Headquarters!
August 29, 2008 to January 18, 2009: New Exhibit at MOAH (Museum of American Heritage) "Music to One's Ears: Musical instruments in the home, band and orchestra: Open Friday, Saturday, Sunday- 11 AM to 4 PM. FREE. Music is universal among human cultures and its making dates to pre-historic eras. Explore the basic principles of music making, technology and technique over the ages, from the hollow log to the electronic harmony.
351 Homer Avenue. 321-1004. www.moah.org
SEPTEMBER 1: Free Reiki open house at Camelot, 1000 Fremont Avenue, Suite 155, Los Altos. It will be a special evening as we're introducing Yael, our new shiatsu practitioner, so you have an opportunity to enjoy a free intro session to shiatsu! Come join us at the end of your long weekend, enjoy, recharge, and relax. We'll be practicing from 7pm and on, so you can join us any time that evening. You can find more about shiatsu and upcoming events on the website www.camelotcenter.net
SEPTEMBER 13: Canopy Tree walk in Crescent Park from 10 AM - noon. Meet at the corner of University and Lincoln Ave. Arborist Jess Running from The Care of Trees will lead a walking tour.
SEPTEMBER 14: The Women's International League for Peace and Freedom invites you to a meeting on the vital topic :"Can we have trustworthy elections? What can we expect in the November "08 election? Location : Unitarian Church, 505 E. Charleston Rd..Speaker, Dr. Peter G. Neumann, is a Principal Scientist at the Computer Science Laboratory of SRI International.
His talk will begin at 4 PM. Potluck High Tea -3 PM.
SEPTEMBER 18: "Getting your Act Together Before You Have To" - Palo Alto Auxiliary presents Dr Margaret Deanesly. Holbrook Palmer Park pavilion, 150 Watkins Avenue. FEE: $65 includes box lunch. Proceeds to benefit Packard Children's Hospital. Contact Gerry Nelson 325-9692.
OCTOBER 25: Palo Alto Philharmonic Orchestra Season Opens. Please visit their website, www.paphil.org, for more details and to buy tickets (no extra fees).
OCTOBER 30: "Solution to the Omnivore's dilemma". Talk by Christopher Gardner, a PhD nutritional scientist from Stanford Prevention Research Center. He will offer solutions and insights into your dietary conundrums with an engaging blend of scientific and humorous perspectives at 6 PM at Stanford Arrillaga Center, 326 Galvez (Corner of Campus Drive). FREE. To RSVP call 498-7826.
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SEPTEMBER 6: Growing Cut Flowers at Common Ground from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM. 559 College Avenue, 493-6072 http://www.commongroundinpaloalto.org
SEPTEMBER 6: Docent-Led Night Hike Long Ridge Open Space with Acterra from 5:15-10:30 PM. Fee $35. RSVP to Alexi Miller 962-9876 ext.308 or email alexim@acterra.org
SEPTEMBER 9: Acterra + Palo Alto Adult Education offer "Low Carbon Lifestyle" Class. Class meets on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 to 9:00 PM for four sessions (every other week) $48 fee includes the reader. sign up at http://www.paadultschool.org.
SEPTEMBER 9: Peter Drekmeier will present "From the Tuolumne to the Tap to the Technology and Society Committee noon -1PM at the Hangen Szechuan Restaurant, 134 Castro St. in Mountain View.
SEPTEMBER 12: 24th Annual Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk SEPTEMBER 12: Twilight Hikes at Pearson-Arastradero Preserve with Acterra at 6:30PM. Please RSVP at arastradero@acterra.org
SEPTEMBER 16: Edgewood Plaza Overview at the Palo Alto Art Center Auditorium SEPTEMBER 21, Annual Blossom Family Picnic, Mitchell Park 11:00 AM -2:00 PM, http://www.blossombirth.org, blossom@blossombirth.org or 321-2326 SEPTEMBER 21:Jewish Community Center To Life! A Jewish Cultural Street Festival on Cal Avenue.
SEPTEMBER 30- OCTOBER 21- Ham Radio 4-Night License Class in Menlo Park. For info Ken Dueker: kdueker@powerflare.com.
OCTOBER 28: Emergency Radio Training For info Ken Dueker: kdueker@powerflare.com.
TIPS from the Palo Alto Chamber
Bright Ideas: Energy Saving Outdoor Lighting Tips: Technologies such as solar powered modules and motion sensors can help you save money on outdoor lighting this summer.
See http://www.myenergytips.com/Article.aspx?articleID=168&userID=2378638
Go Green and Feel Smug: A great way to feel superior to your neighbors is by having a lower carbon footprint! These eight simple steps can help you to reduce your household emissions and save on energy costs.
See http://www.myenergytips.com/Article.aspx?articleID=183&userID=2378638
Ten Reasons To Eat Locally: Buying food from local vendors and farmers can help the environment and give you more control over what you eat while providing better taste to your dinner.
See http://www.myenergytips.com/Article.aspx?articleID=191&userID=2378638
Slipping Through the Cracks? Would you like to save up to 20% on heating and cooling bills?
Finding and sealing air leaks around your home can reduce energy costs and make your home more comfortable as cold weather approaches.
See http://www.myenergytips.com/Article.aspx?articleID=181&userID=2378638
If you set your thermostat a little higher during summer months, you'll reduce your cooling costs 3 to 4 percent for each degree of adjustment.
Changing the temperature from 74°F to 77°F could lower your energy bill by more than 10 percent.
See http://www.myenergytips.com/Article.aspx?articleID=188&accountID=10
A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
If you would like to share an idea, comment or concern with our steering committee or you want to volunteer to help make good things happen in our neighborhood, please respond to this email or send an email to Chair Peggy Kenny at peggywrites@yahoo.com. We will do our best to reply in timely fashion and to take you up on offers to help! Together we can make a difference.
* Help us reach all the households in Midtown with these updates! Ask your neighbors if they subscribe, and if not, forward this message and encourage them to send an email with their contact information to MidtownNews@att.net.
* We're also still looking for more Block Preparedness Coordinators who can help our neighborhood be more prepared when an emergency or natural disaster strikes. Find out more at the Midtown Ice Social on September 14th or just hit reply and let us know of your interest.
* Membership and Donations: Anyone residing in Midtown is automatically a member of the Midtown Residents Association. We rely on voluntary donations to fund all activities -- suggested amount is $10 per household. Make checks out to MRA. If you'd like to donate, you can do so at the Ice Cream Social, via the website, or you can mail your check to: Sylvia Gartner, MRA Treasurer, 824 Moreno Street, Palo Alto, CA 94303.
More information about MRA can be found on our web site at www.paneighborhoods.org.
MIDTOWN BUSINESS/NEIGHBOR NEWS:
PLEASE SEND YOUR NEWS IN AT LEAST ONE WEEK BEFORE YOU WANT IT PUBLISHED
SAVE THESE DATES: Please note that Midtown Residents invites you and your neighbors to these events. Since not everyone in Midtown receives enews, we would be most pleased if you share with your neighbors.
MIDTOWN RESIDENTS GENERAL MEETING - 28 on changes to Oregon Expressway.
MIDTOWN RESIDENTS ICE CREAM SOCIAL September 14 from 1:00 PM at Hoover Park
Friends Meeting has their annual Harvest Festival the last Saturday in September
Friends Nursery School has their Rummage Sale on October 4th
MIDTOWN MERCHANTS - October Fest at Midtown Centre on October 18 from 11AM to 4 PM
LAST CALL: MIDTOWN GENERAL MEETING AUGUST 28:
At 7:15 PM: Emerson School, Red Room, 2800 West Bayshore Road on the Oregon Expressway.
Masoud Akbarzadeh, Project Manager for the Oregon Expressway Project will present details and alternatives. Come early to see renderings of the alternative proposals for Oregon Expressway on display starting when doors open at 6:45PM.
See county website for the project at http://preview.tinyurl.com/5fk3j4 for more details.
MIDTOWN MERCHANTS FESTIVAL: As part of the upcoming Midtown Festival scheduled for October 18th from 11AM to 4 PM, your local merchants are inviting area residents to display for sale their artwork and handicrafts. Each vendor will be responsible for their own table, proof of insurance and appropriate licenses. For further information please contact Carla Cumpston at Edward Jones, 321-8586.
LOST: a silver medallion, approx the size of a quarter, but thicker. A logo and "SheRox" on one side, the word "PHILADELPHIA" on the other. Lost while walking around Midtown, (Middlefield, Colorado, Ross...) probably on Thursday (Aug 14th). It was an award for participating in my first! relay sprint marathon, and has sentimental value. If found contact Martha at 493-7763 or mail@marthacastillo.net. Thank you very much!
MYGYM Midtown Fitness Center Open House: AUGUST 31- 2-6 PM. 2655 Middlefield 330-1760
CRIME UPDATE
Attempted Strong-arm Robbery on Colorado Ave.
On 8/18/2008 at approximately 10:25 PM, a victim of an Attempted Strong-arm Robbery called 911. The victim stated that he and his friend were attacked by four suspects in the 800 block on Colorado Ave. Officers arrived in the area minutes later and attempted to locate the suspects. The two male victims, both Palo Alto residents, sustained only minor injuries including bruises and abrasions. The victims said four male suspects approached them on Colorado Ave while they were walking and attacked them by striking them with punches and kicks. No other weapons were seen or used. The suspects demanded money from both victims, but neither were carrying any on their person. The suspects then fled in a vehicle Eastbound on Colorado Ave. The suspects are all described as Black or Hispanic males, at least 6 feet tall and heavyset, wearing grey hooded sweatshirts with the hoods over their heads, and wearing dark pants. The suspects fled in a White colored sedan with no distinguishing marks.
If anyone has any information regarding this crime, they are encouraged to contact the Palo Alto Police Department, Detective Division at 329-2406.
Many think "emergency preparedness" is only for the earthquake. Knowing your neighbors is also critical for robberies and fires. Midtown has experienced both in the last few days. Don't wait; meet your neighbors before a tragedy occurs. Have your block be part of the Palo Alto Neighborhoods Emergency Disaster Preparedness effort. More at www.paneighborhoods.org/ep.
Contact Annette Ashton at ashtonannette@gmail.com to get on the list for the next class or to schedule an introductory session for your neighbors.
Having a fire down the street, gives me an opportunity to remind you on what to do for a home fire. Check to make sure your fire extinguishers work. Working smoke detectors cut the risk of dying in a home fire by half. Although smoke detectors are in 92 percent of American homes, nearly one third do not work because of old or missing batteries.The IAFC (International Association of Fire Chiefs) encourages people to change smoke detector batteries at least annually. You should test your smoke detectors periodically to ensure that they are working correctly. Smoke detectors should not be placed near air vents, kitchens or in garages. A fire extinguisher should be placed near or inside the kitchen to put out small fires. Other good locations for installing smoke detectors are in hallways and just outside bedroom doors. Be sure you know how to use a fire extinguisher, before you use it. Practice fire drills with the family. Know where and how to get out of your home in a fire.
More fire tips at http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/news/displaynews.asp?NewsID=602&TargetID=99
CITY/COUNTY/SCHOOL EVENTS/NOTES
STORM REBATE PROGRAM: The City of Palo Alto is committed to promoting the use of green building products, methods, and design in residential and commercial building projects. One aspect of green development is the inclusion of site design techniques that reduce storm water runoff and pollution. Some runoff reduction measures help conserve water through the harvesting and reuse of rainwater. If you are planning a new home or business or considering a remodel of your present facility, the City wants to make it easier for you to go green. The Storm Drain Utility is offering rebates to Palo Alto residents and businesses for installation of the following storm water runoff reduction measures: Rain barrels, Cisterns, Permeable pavement , Green roofs., For more, including eligibility requirements, application forms, and helpful design tips, go to http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/stormwater or call 329-2151.
AUGUST 21: DUMBARTON BRIDGE ROUTE OPERATIONS COMMITTEE, 10:00 to 11:30 AM at the AC Transit General Offices, 1600 Franklin St., 10 Floor Conference Room, Oakland. Agenda includes Dumbarton Rail EIR update /TSM Bus Alternative
Citizens Police Academy: Oct 1 - Nov 19; Weds from 6-9 PM. Contact: Susie Ord LOCAL EVENTS/NEWS
AUGUST 23: Wellness Open House - Zohar Dance Company any time between 1-4 PM. FREE at Cubberley, 4000 Middlefield Road, Room L4. The wellness open house is collaboration between Zohar Dance Company and Camelot Center. Zohar Dance Company has different classes offered that morning, including a popular beginners jazz class with the artistic director, Ehud Krauss. Camelot is an integrative health and wellness center for individuals, families, and the community, located in Los Altos. It offers energy and bodywork, consultation and coaching, weight loss programs, classes related to health and well-being, and a variety of community and corporate activities and talks. The open house is offered as a service to Zohar's students and the community as a whole, and is free for you to enjoy, relax, and heal. It is a wonderful opportunity for you to experience a variety of healing methods practiced and taught at Camelot Center, including floor shiatsu, guided relaxation, Theta Healing, Reiki, food testing (applied Kinesiology), foot massage, and more!
SEPTEMBER 6: Growing Cut Flowers at Common Ground from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM. You will be introduced to the best of the best easy-to-grow flowers with staying power. Common plant foliage will compliment and add wonderful effect. Learn which specific varieties do well in arrangements. Save money and have more joy growing your own flower bouquets. Purple orach, colorful amaranths, 10 different alstromerias, purple millet, peonies, and long-stemmed roses will be discussed. A slide show is included. Where: 559 College Avenue, for more 493.6072 or http://www.commongroundinpaloalto.org.
SEPTEMBER 6: Docent-Led Night Hike Long Ridge Open Space with Acterra from 5:15-10:30 PM. Fee $35. RSVP to Alexi Miller 962-9876 ext.308 or email alexim@acterra.org
SEPTEMBER 9: Acterra + Palo Alto Adult Education offer "Low Carbon Lifestyle" Class - a fun, practical program to help individuals and communities reduce their "carbon footprints" which contribute to climate change. The 4-session course is based on the illustrated Low Carbon Diet reader from Empowerment Institute to help guide the class. The program addresses four main areas: changing habits to reduce your impact, making your home more efficient, empowering others to take action, and making a CO2 reduction plan to reduce your carbon foot print. Class meets on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 to 9:00 PM for four sessions (every other week) Cost is $48 and includes the reader. sign up online at http://www.paadultschool.org.
SEPTEMBER 12: Twilight Hikes at Pearson-Arastradero Preserve with Acterra at 6:30PM. Please RSVP at arastradero@acterra.org
SEPTEMBER 21, Annual Blossom Family Picnic, Mitchell Park's Pine Grove Picnic Area (South end by tennis courts) from 11:00 AM -2:00 PM, Free, Raffle tickets: $10 for two tickets or $20 for five tickets. For more http://www.blossombirth.org, blossom@blossombirth.org or321-2326 Featuring a build-your-own-sundae bar with ice cream provided by Michal the Milkman and juice from Country Sun. Performance by award-winning children's musician Andy Z beginning at noon. Raffle features prizes from Trader Joes, Whole Foods, Avon, Hobees more.
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JOB OPPORTUNITY
Jobs at the Institute for Women in Trades, Technology & Science: IWITTS has 2 great jobs that we are currently hiring for - Online Marketing and Business Development Specialist and Executive Assistant. Full job descriptions can be found on our website http://www.iwitts.com/html/employment.html.
TIP
Laura writes: I am nearly done with a charming, informative book called, "The 50/60 Kid: A Palo Alto Dreamer" by Jane Richter Horton. The 50/60 refers to the childhood years Jane spent in south Palo Alto in the 1950's and 1960's on Louis Road when cows grazed the area! It is enjoyable and touching...I bought my copy at Kepler's in Menlo Park, but perhaps it is also at our local libraries.
MIDTOWN BUSINESS/NEIGHBOR NEWS: SAVE THESE DATES: Please note that Midtown Residents invites you and your neighbors to these events. Since not everyone in Midtown receives enews, we would be most pleased if you share with your neighbors.
CALL TO EVERYONE: MIDTOWN GENERAL MEETING AUGUST 28:
At 7:15 PM: Emerson School, Red Room, 2800 West Bayshore Road on the Oregon Expressway.
Palo Alto Friends Nursery School, a play-based cooperative, has been serving families with young children for 52 years. Focusing on a strong partnership with parents, the professional and caring staff encourages children to use their imagination, and to explore their innate sense of wonder of science and nature, and creativity through art and music. Through this nurturing hands on environment, children gain increased confidence in their own abilities, learn how to solve problems, and become more aware of the world around them. Currently the school has openings in the Tuesday/ Thursday afternoon class for children who will be 3 by December 2nd. For enrollment information, or to inquire about other potential class availabilities, please contact Annette at 856-06152, or visit the website at www.pafns.org.
Midtown artist Martha Castillo has won 3rd place in University Art 's annual UAOpen 2008, a juried competition, in the mixed media category, for her "Moon Gate #2".
CITY/COUNTY/SCHOOL EVENTS/NOTES
WHAT IS THE COLOR OF PALO ALTO? Apparently after 7 years, there is no consensus but 3 choices.
Citizens Police Academy: October 1 - November 19; Wednesdays from 6-9 PM. The curriculum offers a no-nonsense approach to police work. Students learn:
SEPTEMBER 12: 24th Annual Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk.
LOCAL EVENTS/NEWS
Green@Home - Helping Neighbors Save Energy and Reduce CO2: Acterra’s Green@Home Program is looking for volunteers in Palo Alto to visit other residents in their homes to install simple energy-saving devices and perform a free basic energy-saving audit. Acterra provides the volunteer training and scheduling. No experience is necessary. Volunteers need to complete a two-part training session. Volunteers work in pairs in each 2 to 3 hour HouseCall.
SEPTEMBER 9: Council member Peter Drekmeier will present "From the Tuolumne to the Tap" to the Technology and Society Committee from noon-1PM at the Hangen Szechuan Restaurant, 134 Castro St. in Mountain View. FREE.
Ham Radio 4-Night License Class in Menlo Park 9/30-10/21 & Emergency Radio Training on 10/28: Amateur Radio ("Ham") License & Communications Course. Study to pass a 35-question, multiple-choice FCC exam (no Morse code) to get a radio license to use certain frequencies as part of your community's emergency response.
OCTOBER 28: Emergency Communications Course for Ham Radio & CERT: 6:30 - 9:30 PM. FREE. BRING: Your radio(s) & instruction manuals for them.
AUGUST 16-17: Cancer Relay for Life of Palo Alto
TIPS
Pat recommends: We just saw "Faith Healer" at Stanford. It's on through Aug 17 at the Piggot Theater, which is just behind Memorial Theater. It's fantastic! You can probably just walk up and get tickets. Or order in advance. http://www.stanford.edu/group/summertheater/tickets.html
MIDTOWN BUSINESS/NEIGHBOR NEWS: My daughter's bike was stolen outside our residence late this morning (Saturday) near the corner of E. Meadow and Waverley St. The police were called and have the serial number. The bike was parked between the houses for a short time as my daughter went back inside to retrieve something. Bike description: A Marin 21-speed mountain bike, purplish-brown in color with a black basket on one side, a cable lock is around the bike stem. Any information, please call 424-1242.
Another resident asks "if anyone in addition to me is concerned about the growing number of Pods (storage containers) that are sprouting around the neighborhood in driveways and remaining for long periods of time. It seems that Eichler's are particularly vulnerable since residents are growing out of their garages. But isn't this a violation of city ordinance?" Comments: Respond to this email or jump on the MRA list serv - at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PaloAltoMidtown
Thanks to everyone who came to the Midtown National Night Out Potluck to join meeting neighbors and the wonderful music from Celtic Rose, pictured in Tuesday Daily POST. Many folks have asked how to hear more and obtain a CD. "Celtic and Beyond" is a blending of old and new - Renaissance, Celtic, and original songs, accompanied by lute, dulcimer, cello, guitar, tin whistle, recorder, keyboard, and guitar. It sends you to another world in a new and refreshing way. Great for moments of contemplation and relaxation, with a touch of the sacred. To hear selections, visit www.doriswilliams.com. The cost is $18. Contact Doris Williams at 327-2486, Doris.sings@mindspring.com.
SAVE THESE DATES: Please note that Midtown Residents invites you and your neighbors to these events. Since not everyone in Midtown receives enews, we would be most pleased if you share with your neighbors.
CALL TO EVERYONE: MIDTOWN GENERAL MEETING AUGUST 28:
At 7: PM: Emerson School, Red Room, 2800 West Bayshore Road. on the Oregon Expressway. Masoud Akbarzadeh, Project Manager for the Oregon Expressway Project will present details and alternatives. Come early to see renderings of the alternative proposals for Oregon Expressway on display starting when doors open at 6:45PM. See county website for the project at http://preview.tinyurl.com/5fk3j4 for more details.
When shopping for everything from groceries to back-to-school items, remember to Bring Your Own Bag! Paper and plastic bags create major environmental costs and problems. Your best defense is a reusable bag. This broad-based effort is a collaboration among the City, Acterra and joined by a host of retail merchants and community organizations. BYOB will make a real difference if we each do our part. One idea: Hang your reusable bags on your doorknob so you see them when you go out, and you'll never be caught without them! CITY/COUNTY/SCHOOL EVENTS/NOTES
WHAT IS THE COLOR OF PALO ALTO? Apparently after 7 years, there is no consensus but 3 choices. Vote for your favorite choice of colors to represent Palo Alto at lalo.perez@cityofpaloalto.org indicating their interest and qualifications. The deadline for responding is August 29. Note: the City will take into account include experience with technology and web services. People serving on the committee will not be permitted to bid on any related web site work for the City.
SEPTEMBER 12: Register Now for 24th Annual Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk .Start at 7:15 PM; 10K run begins at 8:15 PM; 5K run begins at 8:45 PM. Water is provided at all stops. The course map is at www.PaloAltoOnline.com.
LOCAL EVENTS/NEWS
AUGUST 7: The next meeting of CEAP (Community Environmental Action Partnership), which brings the community together to create solutions, will be from 7:00 - 9:00 PM at the Palo Alto Art Center. The CEAP has been created by the City and a wide range of community groups to implement the Climate Protection Plan. Everyone is invited to attend the meeting.
AUGUST 9-10: Weekend Booksale - Friends of the Palo Alto Library. Saturday 10-4; Sunday 1-4PM. Take a walk through their (http://www.friendspaloaltolib.org/bookshelves.aspx) shelf preview pictures, giving you an advance peek at some of the tens of thousands of interesting books available in Main Room at this weekend's sale.Palo Alto's libraries will be closed on Monday, September 1 for the Labor Day holiday. Even when the libraries are closed, you can still: Search the online catalog at: libraryreference@cityofpaloalto.org
AUGUST 13: Avenidas presents: Does your loved one have Parkinson’s? Janet Edmunson, author of “Finding Meaning with Charles: Caregiving with Love Through a Degenerative Disease” will be speaking at Avenidas from 6:30 to 8 PM. Learn how positive affirmations can help you and your loved one. Space is limited so RVSP to 289-5429 or 289-5401.
AUGUST 16-17: Relay for Life of Palo Alto from 10:00 AM to 10:00 AM, the American Cancer Society presents “Relay for Life of Palo Alto” at the Palo Alto High School Track. Form a team or volunteer in other ways! This relay is a community gathering that features an overnight walk to raise funds for cancer research, education, advocacy and patient services. For more information, please email aimee.williams@cancer.org or call 408-204-0988. For 24-hour cancer information, please see www.avenidas.org or call 289-5445.
AUGUST 28: USGS Monthly lecture at 7:00 PM Topic; "How the Earth Copes with Our LUSTs -- The amazing capabilities of subsurface life." Keynote speaker: Barbara Bekins, USGS Research Hydrologist.
AUGUST 21: STANFORD LECTURE SERIES from 7:00-8:30 PM at Cantor Arts Center hosted by Stanford's Office of Science Outreach.
AUGUST 23-4: Palo Alto Festival of the Arts will be held from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM on University Avenue - 300 high-quality artisans, street painting, an art studio for kids, the “Spirit of Palo Alto Stage,” gourmet food, wine and micro-brews, entertainment on three stages! A fashion show featuring wearable art will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday at Lytton Plaza. Free and secure bicycle parking is offered, too! Be sure to attend this wonderful annual event. Please stop by and visit the Palo Alto Neighborhood Emergency Preparedness Table for tips at Emerson.
SEPTEMBER 21: Albert L. Schultz Jewish Community Center presents: To Life! A Jewish Cultural Street Festival from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.
SEPTEMBER 16: Edgewood Plaza Overview from 7:00 - 9:00 PM at the Palo Alto Art Center Auditorium sponsored by the City of Palo Alto and Duveneck/St. Francis Neighborhood Association. At the meeting, Planning Department staff members will present an overview of the Edgewood Plaza application process, timeline, and identify opportunities for residents to provide public input on any proposal that is submitted. (This will not be a presentation and/or review of a developer proposal.
TIPS
SUMMER READING PROGRAM REWARDS NOW AVAILABLE: If you're a kid or teen who signed up for the Palo Alto Library Summer Reading Program, don't forget to turn in your reading log and claim your prize at the College Terrace Library, on Wellesley between California and College, between 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Mon.-Wed. and Fri-Sat. http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/lib/news/details.asp?NewsID=406&TargetID=170
STREET LIGHTS ON THE BLINK? If you notice a street light that is out please report it to the City, and be sure to give a precise location. Send your email message to: streetlightout@cityofpaloalto.org.
Is it worth trading in your gas guzzler? See Back to Top
AUGUST 28: USGS Monthly lecture at 7:00 PM Topic; "How the Earth Copes with Our LUSTs -- The amazing capabilities of subsurface life"
AUGUST 21: STANFORD LECTURE SERIES from 7:00-8:30 PM at Cantor : "Powering the Future with Sustainable Energy"
AUGUST 23-4: Palo Alto Festival of the Arts
SEPTEMBER 9: Peter Drekmeier will present "From the Tuolumne to the Tap to the Technology and Society Committee noon -1PM at the Hangen Szechuan Restaurant, 134 Castro St. in Mountain View.
SEPTEMBER 16: Edgewood Plaza Overview at the Palo Alto Art Center Auditorium
SEPTEMBER 21:Jewish Community Center To Life! A Jewish Cultural Street Festival on Cal Avenue.
SEPTEMBER 30- OCTOBER 21- Ham Radio 4-Night License Class in Menlo Park. For info: Ken Dueker: kdueker@powerflare.com.
OCTOBER 28: Emergency Radio Training For info: Ken Dueker: kdueker@powerflare.com.
Midtown News Update – August 15, 2008
PLEASE SEND YOUR NEWS IN AT LEAST ONE WEEK BEFORE YOU WANT IT PUBLISHED
MIDTOWN RESIDENTS GENERAL MEETING - 28 on changes to Oregon Expressway.
MIDTOWN RESIDENTS ICE CREAM SOCIAL September 14 from 1:00 PM at Hoover Park
Friends Meeting has their annual Harvest Festival the last Saturday in September
Friends Nursery School has their Rummage Sale on October 4th
MIDTOWN MERCHANTS - October Fest at Midtown Centre on October 18 from 11AM to 4 PM
Masoud Akbarzadeh, Project Manager for the Oregon Expressway Project will present details and alternatives. Come early to see renderings of the alternative proposals for Oregon Expressway on display starting when doors open at 6:45PM.
See county website for the project at http://preview.tinyurl.com/5fk3j4 for more details.
Exhibition dates are September 6 to 27th at University Art, 456 Meridian, in San Jose. Awards will be presented at a ceremony on September 5th.
Martha's large clayprint, "Stillness", earned a spot in the juried competition sponsored by Society of Layerists in Mixed Media "Interactions" exhibition, at the Pacific Grove Art Center, 568 Lighthouse Ave, Pacific Grove. The exhibition runs from September 5 through October 15.
La Tartine restaraunt, 830 Middlefield Rd, Redwood City, CA 94063. (650) 298-8278 is hosting an exhibition of clayprints by Martha Castillo from August 18 through September. Come for pastry or a meal, and enjoy the art. A reception for the artist is planned, date to be announced.
Martha also announces she has some seats available in her class on August 16 for her "Introduction to Clayprinting". She will have a one day refresher on September 13 or November 8.
For more call Martha at 493-7763 or see www.marthacastillo.net.
Vote for your favorite choice of colors to represent Palo Alto at www.thecolorofpaloalto.com.
1) the kind of education and training it take to become a police officer
2) what the city looks for in a potential candidate
3) first hand view of a patrol officer's shift and response to crimes in-progress
4) what non-lethal force is and when it is used. Experience making split decisions on a "Shoot! Don't Shoot!" firearm simulator.
Meet the dispatchers for a "sit-along"" in the communications center and see them in action. Understand how crimes are investigated and more. Candidates must meet the following criteria: Minimum age of 16 years (under 18 must have parental consent); Live, work or be connected to the Palo Alto community; No prior felony convictions; No misdemeanor convictions within one year of application; Interview and pass background check.
To apply or for questions contact: Susie Ord (susie.ord@cityofpaloalto.org) or call 329-2632 or www.papd.org.
Sign up for one of our two-part training sessions at Acterra, 3921 E. Bayshore Road, Palo Alto:
Session B, Sats., September 6 and September 13 from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM;
Session C, Weds., September 24 and October 1, 6:30 - 9:30 PM.
For more information or to sign up for one of our two-part training sessions, call Twana Karney at 962-9876, ext. 316 or greenathome@acterra.org.
Four Tuesdays September 30: 6:30-9:00 PM, October 7: 6:30-9:00 PM, October 14: 6:30-9:00 PM, (FCC exam): October 21: 6:30-9:00 PM.
There will be a special Emergency Communications Training Class (ideal for new radio operators or those wishing to learn about ARES/RACES). Menlo Park Fire Sta. 77: 1467 Chilco St.
FEE: $40.00 includes The ARRL Ham Radio License book.
To register: Ken Dueker: kdueker@powerflare.com.
Sponsored by: Menlo Park Fire Protection District CERT: menlofire.org/cert. Priority for disaster volunteer members).
To register: Ken Dueker: kdueker@powerflare.com.
AUGUST 16: Avenidas' 5th Annual Caregiver Conference "What to Expect When You're A Caregiver
AUGUST 28: USGS Monthly lecture at 7:00 PM Topic; "How the Earth Copes with Our LUSTs -- The amazing capabilities of subsurface life"
AUGUST 21: STANFORD LECTURE SERIES from 7:00-8:30 PM at Cantor : "Powering the Future with Sustainable Energy"
AUGUST 23-4: Palo Alto Festival of the Arts
SEPTEMBER 16: Edgewood Plaza Overview at the Palo Alto Art Center Auditorium
SEPTEMBER 21:Jewish Community Center To Life! A Jewish Cultural Street Festival on Cal Avenue.
Friel on Stage: Faith Healer -- Thursdays through Sundays at 8:00 PM -- August 14-17; Sunday matinees at 2:00 PM August 17, Pigott Theater (http://www.stanford.edu/dept/drama/maps.html), Memorial Hall
Midtown News Update – August 7, 2008
PLEASE SEND YOUR NEWS IN AT LEAST ONE WEEK BEFORE YOU WANT IT PUBLISHED
MIDTOWN RESIDENTS GENERAL MEETING - 28 on changes to Oregon Expressway.
MIDTOWN RESIDENTS ICE CREAM SOCIAL September 14 from 1:00 PM at Hoover Park
MIDTOWN MERCHANTS - October Fest at Midtown Centre on October 18 from 11AM to 4 PM
For more information, please see www.cityofpaloalto.org/BYOBag.
Note: the first 20 people arriving at the MRA general meeting will receive a Palo Alto Shopping bag - free.
Pre-registration is $20 per entrant, if postmarked by 9/5/08, and includes a long-sleeved t-shirt. Family packages are also available, as is pre-registration opportunities for sports teams and clubs. For more information, call 463-4920, 326-8210, or email MoonlightRun@paweekly.com.
Access many online resources at: http://librpa.cityofpaloalto.org/rpa/webauth.exe?rs=novelist
For more see http://online.wr.usgs.gov/calendar for past lectures and directions to the USGS or to download a flyer for this event: http://online.wr.usgs.gov/calendar/2008/aug08flyer.pdf
"Powering the Future with Sustainable Energy" with Stacey F.Bent
More information on topics and speakers: http://oso.stanford.edu/lectures.html
Where: California Avenue between El Camino and Park. This annual event showcases the diversity of Jewish culture through art, music, dance and food. Visitors will enjoy live music and performances from three free stages, artwork from over 80 local and Israeli artists, information from local Jewish organizations, and a wide array of kosher and vegetarian foods.
For more see agrossmann@paloaltojcc.org or 852-3506.
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