Fall Festivities All Around Us!

Calendar of RSCA Events

BRSSD Board Candidate Meet & Greet
e days are growing shorter, but there’s certainly no

Wednesday, October 17th at 6:00-7:30pm

shortage of fun festivities available to us! RSCA has been

at the Shores Library (see page 6 for details)

busy planning events to offer to all Shores residents,
including the recent City Council Candidate Meet & Greet
and the upcoming School Board Candidate Meet & Greet Halloween Parade in Marlin Park
Saturday, October 27th at 1:30-2:30pm
(see page 6 for details). And one of our favorite family events
of the year is our Annual Halloween Parade at Marlin Park.
RSCA invites members to bring your kids, in their Halloween
costumes, to Marlin Park on Saturday, October 28th from
1:30 - 2:30pm. We’ll have goodies for the little ones, so bring
a treat bag or bucket! (And PARENTS, don’t forget your cameras
for photo opportunities with the Good Witch.)

Emergency Preparedness Drill

Saturday, November 17th
Once again we’ll ask Shores residents to
“Show Your Cards” for this practice event

Santa Visits the Shores Library

Sunday, December 9th at 1-3pm

You can always find more information about these

and other community events on our web site at
RSCA kicks off our membership campaign in October and
we ask all residents, and especially readers of e PILOT, to
JOIN US to help make Redwood Shores a GREAT place to
live and work! (See page 4 for details.) In an effort to encourage RSCA.org
more residents to be involved in our community through
contributions and volunteer positions, RSCA will have a
special treat at our Halloween Parade for those who sign up
as contributing members NOW. Please check in with us at
the park so we can thank you for your support. To support
the Shores community by becoming a member, we only ask
for your $45 contribution, which can be paid online if you
join our email list. Alternatively, you can bring or mail a check
to RSCA at your convenience. (But please, please, please join
our email list to maximize efficiency utilizing online methods.)
anks for considering. RSCA hopes you have a safe and
Happy Halloween!
Page 2 October 2018 e PILOT
HOW WE HELP & HOW YOU CAN HELP
RSCA: What We Do
Do you really realize how fortunate you are to live in the Shores?
It wasn’t always that way… RSCA was instrumental in kicking
off construction of both schools and our library, suggesting
maintenance and improvements by parks and recreation and
public works, keeping our levees strong so we’re not in a flood
zone, encouraging programs like our summer concerts in Marlin
Park and activities for seniors.
Since 1970 (nearly 50 years!) your Redwood Shores Community
Association has worked to make and keep the Shores a GREAT
place to live and work! RSCA has fought many battles, big and
small, to maintain the quality of life we enjoy here on “our little
island.” RSCA sponsors many events year round and keeps you
informed through e PILOT monthly magazine, our email list,
our roadway signboards, and on our web site at RSCA.org.
e primary purpose of RSCA is to be THE advocate on issues
that affect the quality of life in the Shores. Our mission is to
represent the interests of residents and businesses in the Shores.
Our many activities are only made possible by your financial
support, and the larger our Membership the more effective we can
be as advocates for the Shores. RSCA continues to be the strongest
advocate on issues that affect the Shores; we need you to join and
support these important efforts.
PleASe, PleASe, PleASe J Oin OuR eMAil l iSt!
As more of our systems move online, email is the most efficient
way we have of staying in touch with ALL of our Shores residents
and businesses. More and more of RSCA’s efforts are focused on
getting important information to you more quickly. Your Shores
magazine, e PilOt, comes once each month, but many things
do happen between printing and delivery to you.
Page 4 October 2018 e PILOT
With our annual membership campaign now underway, we ask
you go to RSCA.org and click the “Join our email list” button.
(e button is on the main page when
using a standard internet browser, from
a mobile device, select Feedback from
the Menu to find the “Join our email
list” button, or just scan this QR code!)
It only takes about one minute to enter
your name, street address, and email.
(You can review our Privacy Policy first,
and know that we do not share or overuse this important
RSCA Membership for 2019!
information.) Send questions to <membership@rsca.org>.
is month we begin our Membership drive for 2019.
(As you requested, we moved up our schedule to avoid the
November-December Holiday season.)
If we have a valid email address (THANK YOU!) you’ll soon
receive an email with a link to log into our web-based
membership system (memberplanet.com) where you can
update your contact information and make your 2019
Membership payment online.
If you aren’t on our email list, you can join anytime from our
website! And you will soon be receiving a letter from RSCA
asking for your Membership and financial support.
In case you do not receive our Membership request this month
and wish to help us before the holidays, use the form at the
bottom of this page (tear it off and mail to us) along with your
$45 check for 2019. Or “Join our email list” at RSCA.org, and
we’ll send you a link that will let you make your payment online.
ank you for your support!
 REDWOOD SHORES
COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
274 Redwood Shores Pkwy, PMB #603
Redwood Shores, CA 94065 - 1173
www.RSCA.org | info@rsca.org

2018 Board of Directors

Lynn Kathleen Adams Connie Munevar
Nina Boire Sue Nix
Kevin Brehmer Ben Ploshay
Jim Cvengros Clemencia Rodriguez
Carol Ford Harris Rogers
Shannon Guzzetta Steven Tsujisaka
Don Long Bob Slusser
Mike Mancusi Andrew Young

RSCA’s Board of Directors meet at the

Redwood Shores Library on the 2nd ursday of each
month at 7pm. Our next Board Meeting will be:
October 11th, 2018 • Fall Festivities All Around Us.....................................Page 1
• RSCA Events Calendar..............................................Page 1

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN BOARD (non-HOA areas):

Nina Boire Jim Cvengros Sue Nix
For CC&R copies & information, email <ADB@rsca.org>
DEADLINES for e PILOT
e deadline for space reservation is usually the end of the
first week of each month for the following month’s issue.
Please email <ThePILOT@rsca.org> for a precise schedule.
PUBLISHER: Redwood Shores Community Association
e PILOT is the official monthly publication of
the Redwood Shores Community Association.
CIRCULATION: 6,000 Shores Households & Businesses
Opinions published in e PilOt are solely those of the
authors and not the expressions of RSCA unless so officially
and expressly designated.
• How We Help & How YOU Can Help.....................Page 4
• From the Mayor: Economic Development.................Page 6
• Election Information .................................................Page 6
• BRSSD Candidate Event ...............................................Page 6
• At Home in the Shores: Designs for Your Pet.............Page 8
• Waterfront Homes: Benefit & Responsibility...........Page 11
• RSCA Annual Levee Cleanup Recap .......................Page 12
• Shores Library Celebrates 10th Anniversary ..............Page 12
• California Canoe & Kayak Demo Day ....................Page 13
• Latest SVCW News.................................................Page 16
• It’s Elementary School Update..................................Page18
• Redwood Shores Tennis Club ..................................Page 18
• Belmont Redwood Shores Rotary Event ..................Page 20
• Lilting Melodies, Dew, BBQ Nirvana..........................Page 20
• Festival Weekend in Belmont.......................................Page 21
• St. Mark’s Corner ....................................................Page 22
• Library Events for October ......................................Page 24
• Shores Business Classified Ads .................................Page 24
• Estate Planning Seminar ..............................................Page 25
• Lynn’s Kitchen: Chili Topped Nachos .........................Page 26
• VOCA: a Great Tool for Redwood Shores ...............Page 26
• Halloween Family Concert ......................................Page 27

https://www.facebook.com/RSCAorg/ e PILOT October 2018 Page 5

 FROM THE MAYOR ELECTION
i A n B A i n , City Of RedwOOd City INFORMATION
A strong, healthy local economy is critical to everything we Election Day is coming up on Tuesday, November 6th.
do in Redwood City. at’s why eCOnOMiC develOPMent County and State Voting Information Guides and ballots
is one of the City Council’s seven priorities. We have been will be sent to all registered mailing addresses in the month
blessed with a strong regional economy for several years, and of October. Please review these important documents for
that provides both opportunities and challenges. Even in a election information and current processes so you know
hot economy, it’s important to look ahead and think wheRe, when & hOw tO vOte.
strategically about what types of businesses our residents All registered voters in San Mateo County will receive their
want, and the types of businesses we need to produce revenue ballot by mail 29 days before the election and have three
that supports city services. options to cast their vote. For more information about voting,
Our Economic Development strategy is two-fold: 1) attract please go to smcacre.org/voting.
the businesses we want, and 2) retain businesses that we love
and want to keep in Redwood City. One of the challenges
we face is when a large, national company closes down its
stores. We saw that with Toys R’ Us and more recently with
Orchard Supply Hardware. In these cases, the City works
with commercial realtors to try to attract companies that will
produce significant sales tax revenue, but also businesses that
meet community needs. Attracting business that produce
significant sales tax revenue (like Costco) is critical in order
to keep our city financially strong.
But economic development isn’t just about financial strength.
We also want businesses that are fun! I have personally
focused on trying to bring family recreation back to Redwood
City. at could come in the form of a bowling alley, a roller
rink, or something else, but it is proving to be a real
challenge. Lucky Strike, an upscale bowling alley chain, has
no plans for expansion in Photo
the near future.
courtesy Topgolf, Ceilings.
of Armstrong a sports
entertainment company, requires a large footprint and is deep
in talks with another Peninsula city. Big Al’s, a sports bar and
bowling center is focused on opening its Milpitas location,
but is interested in looking at Redwood City in the future.
Timing is everything.
Retaining beloved businesses is also a challenge. One of the
downsides of a hot economy is that building owners
sometimes get greedy and raise their rents to a point where Meet the Candidates for the School Board
the business (the tenant) can no longer be profitable. Part of on Wednesday, October 17th, 6:00 - 7:30pm
the Economic Development Manager’s role is to educate at the Redwood Shores Library*
building owners on reasonable business rents. In cases where
that can’t be avoided we try to help businesses find new e 17th district PTA and RSCA have partnered to host an
locations within Redwood City. event for BRSSD board candidates and Shores residents to talk
about issues facing our schools and in our community.
Redwood City is currently looking for an Economic
Development Manager. If you know someone who is ere are 6 candidates vying for the 3 open board seats. ey
passionate about helping attract and retain businesses, who are: Suvarna Bhophale (I), Amy Koo (I), April Northrup,
has the energy and connections to drive this program Rahila Passi (I), Shaunna Solorzano, and Honglin Su.
forward, please contact our City Manager. For more information about this election, visit smcacre.org.
*e meeting space is provided as a community service by the City of Redwood City. e City neither
Page 6 October 2018 e PILOT sponsors nor endorses this event nor the presenting individual or organizations.
e PILOT October 2018 Page 7
Design Friendly Ideas For Your Pet
Although many people consider pets to be our best friends, or
even family members, the mess and clutter they bring into our
homes can be a big nuisance. Between toys, food bowls, hair, and
paw prints, their presence can often overwhelm our homes and
our sanity. Believe it or not, many of these pet problems can be
solved by design to ensure you and your pet continue happily
cohabitating. Read on for some cool pet renovation ideas to
consider when remodeling.
1. Built-in dog beds and crates.
If you want your dog to have a comfortable place to sleep, but
in an area that’s not underfoot or obtrusive, consider a built-in
dog bed. Built-in dog beds can be customized to match your
decor and can be placed in an area that would otherwise be
wasted space, such as under the stairs. Laundry and mud rooms
are great locations for built-in dog beds because they typically
have tiled floors which can be easily cleaned. A built-in feeding station can be hidden away after meal time!
2. Built-in feeding stations. Photo courtesy of Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry.
Food dishes can be one of the biggest pet problems—not only raccoons entering, you can use an electronic ID tag that only
are they often an eyesore, but they can be a tripping hazard if left gives your pet access. ere are even a few companies that sell a
on the floor. Consider creating a pet food bowl niche in your glass panel with a pet door that fits into any sliding glass door.
kitchen island; it can be built into the counter so it’s out of the ese panels are adjustable and/or available in different sizes.
way. Or keep it simple and leave an opening where you might
5. dog bathing/cleaning area.
otherwise put a cabinet. Alternatively, create a toe-kick drawer
that stows the bowls, and pull them out at feeding time (don’t Another great idea if you’re remodeling and have the space is to
forget to leave another water source elsewhere!). Storing pet food add a doggie shower to your plan. e laundry room or garage
bags can be a pain, but another solved-by-design solution is to is probably the best location for this. If you add a high wall, the
place food bags in a pull-out cabinet. inevitable post shower shake down will be contained within the
shower area.
3. Built in litter box/litter box hideaway.
Whether you choose to implement one or all of these pet
For indoor cats, litter boxes are obviously necessary. Keeping the
renovations suggestions, your home will be a safer, cleaner and more
smell and mess out of the way is a top priority, so consider
harmonious place for your family—both furry and otherwise.
placing the litter box in the bathroom or a laundry room. One
way to manage this mess is to turn a cabinet area into a cat litter
den. If you’re installing a new cabinet for this purpose, consider Liza Riguerra is a technology professional turned
a pull-out design to make it more accessible. For either option, award-winning interior designer who lives in
you can leave the hole open or install a cat door. Redwood Shores. Connect with her on Houzz,
4. Pet doors. LinkedIn or Twitter.
If you’re not already using pet doors, then this is the one tip you
should implement immediately to make outdoor time easier for
everyone. From installing a pet door in the wall, to purchasing a
Animal lovers — if you can spare a little time with pets waiting
door that has a built in doggie door, there are a variety of options.
for their forever homes (or are looking for a furry companion),
Be sure you consult with a licensed contractor before pet
check out PetS in need in Redwood City. is organization has
renovations that involve cutting any holes in the wall, as there
many volunteer opportunities, pets available for adoption, and
might be plumbing or electrical in the way. If you’ve been
educational programs for kids! For details go to Petsinneed.org.
avoiding pet doors out of concern of neighborhood cats or
Page 8 October 2018 e PILOT
e PILOT October 2018 Page 9
JUST LISTED! Welcome to this serene town home tucked away in a private Belmont community which borders the San
Francisco Bay Trail and bay waterways. With high ceilings, wood floors and brand new custom paint throughout, this home
offers two master bedroom suites plus a half bathroom downstairs just off of the remodeled kitchen. The kitchen has
been upgraded with beautiful quartz countertops and has loads of natural sunlight. You will enjoy backyard dining and
BBQs on the patio when its warm and cozy fires in the living room fireplace during cooler months. There is ample storage,
a full sized laundry area upstairs and a detached one car garage with a built-in safe. This home is just steps away from the
Bay Trail, a bike ride to CalTrain or Oracle and minutes from highway 101. Situated in the Farallon Homeowners Association,
additional amenities include a pool, spa, clubhouse and additional parking. Call us for further details! Offered at $1,275,000.

Collectively known as The Gable Team, Naomi and

Maureen are a mother and daughter who share a strong
commitment to quality real estate service. Their combined
energy, care and focus make them a reputable resource in
this diverse Peninsula home market. They are a family
helping families. Naomi is a third generation Realtor and
currently resides in Redwood Shores with her husband
Bobby and their two daughters Callie and Taitym who
attend RWS Elementary School. With her intimate
knowledge of the community and involvement in the
school Naomi has built many friendships and a wonderful
reputation in serving their clients. They would love to hear
from you if you are thinking of buying or selling your home!
Waterfront Homes: A Benefit
with a Responsibility
Redwood Shores is blessed with many single family homes and
condominiums that front our lovely waterways. Unlike waterfront
homes that face the ocean or large lakes, the views are serenely
beautiful, lacking the waves whipped up by currents and offshore
winds. One disturbance, if you can call it that, is caused by flocks
of waterfowl calling to each other. e other disturbance is the
lack of attention by some waterfront home owners to the “rules”
that apply to all waterfront homes in the Shores.
e “rules” have been in place since the first homes were built
on the edge of the large lagoon west of Bridge Parkway. Perhaps
this is a good time to review them as the Shores has many new
owners who simply don’t know they have responsibilities
regarding their special waterfront setting. Others probably have
forgotten them or don’t think the “rules” apply to them.
ReMindeR: Every property in Redwood Shores is governed by
Covenants, Codes & Restrictions (CC&Rs). Whether you reside
in one of our many Home Owners Associations (HOAs) or in the
original neighborhoods, you need to know, understand and comply
with the rules (CC&Rs) for your Redwood Shores property.
Here is a short list of what is expected of the waterfront
homeowners both by Redwood Shores Owners Association
(RSOA), Redwood Shores Community Association (RSCA) and
the City of Redwood City. Make no mistake, some of the “rules”
are for the protection of the waterways and the homes that are
adjacent to them. Negligence can have serious effects such as bank
collapse and flooding. Feel free to contact either RSOA (rsoa.info)
or RSCA (rsca.org) for assistance if you are concerned your
property may not be in compliance. We will be happy to help you.
is information is a collaboration between
Redwood Shores Owners Association
(RSOA) and the Redwood Shores
Architectural Design Board (ADB).
Waterfront Property Rules and Expectations
• unobstructed views down all the waterways
is means that hedges between properties must be kept
trimmed to a level that allows neighbors to see clearly down
the waterway in either direction.
No ancillary structures of any type are permitted on yards facing
the waterways. is means no sheds, no additions to homes
that would block other owners’ views down the waterways.
• no invasion of the banks
e lagoon banks are fragile. ey must be kept clear of any
kind of “installation”, expansion of a patio, trees or large
shrubs. Bank failure could result in thousands of dollars in
repairs and might also result in a home or patio slipping off
its foundation. Not good.
• Proper planting on the banks
Some Homeowner Associations plant and maintain the
plantings on all of their banks while others require the
homeowners to plant and maintain their own banks. Either
way, it has long been the desired practice that each Association
have the same type of plants on all of the banks within the
Association to give uniformity to the view along the waterway.
One very popular practice has been to use iceplant on all the
banks. Iceplant doesn’t require much water once it is
established and most varieties have beautiful flowers. Before
planting anew, homeowners should check with their
Association to see what is the desired plant for their area.
ese rules are a small responsibility for owners of waterfront
property to allow everyone to enjoy the beauty of our very unique
environment now and in the future.
ReMindeR: Some residents received a letter this summer from
the Architectural Design Board about issues requiring correction.
Please respond by sending an email to <AdB@rsca.org>.
e PILOT October 2018 Page 11
RSCA’s Annual Levee Cleanup Event Library Celebrates 10th Anniversary
Redwood Shores Community Association hosted its Annual
Levee Cleanup on Saturday, August 25th with nearly 100 people
arriving early in the morning to take to the Shores ecosystem,
armed with trash pickers and bags. Among other items, typical
findings like cigarette butts, discarded restaurant wrappers, and
trapped newspapers were mixed in with discarded clothing, fishing
rods and cement-filled milk bottles.
Individuals and families took part in this event as well as local Boy
Scouts, Rotary Club members, and a group from the Kainos Home
& Training Center. Recology was on hand to educate the public
on waste sorting, and the Fire Department assisted with the
collection and disposal of the garbage onsite. Of the event, 9 year-
old participant Chiara Manalo
offered, “I think it was fun. Plus,
if the animals eat any of [the
trash], they can get sick.”
City Council member/candidate
Diane Howard recalled that
Shores resident Pete Hughes
started the levee cleanup effort
years ago and his wife Ginny still
participates. Diane noted that
“Everyone seemed to be enjoying
themselves and socializing, as well
as working.”
Participants were energized by a bagel breakfast and returned from
the sweaty work to a sandwich and chips from Togo’s. Not a bad
day of garbage collecting in an effort to keep our miles of bay trails
and pathways clear of unwanted debris.
e levee cleanup is one of several annual events hosted by RSCA
with our mission to make and keep the Shores a great place to live!
RSCA board member Nina Boire again organized and coordinated
all aspects of this event. Fortunately, RSCA received support from
San Mateo Credit union (which helps offset the cost of meals
provided) as well as a Community improvement Grant from
Redwood City. RSCA greatly appreciates the collaboration with
Recology for all clean up supplies and information and the visit
and help from our local fire department. is event would not
be possible without many volunteers. anks to all participants!
(anks to Dennis Manalo for photos and written recap!)
Page 12 October 2018 e PILOT
e Redwood Shores Branch Library 10th Anniversary Celebration
was held on Saturday, September 8th, 2018, from 10am – 1pm.
e morning began with welcoming comments and remarks by
Library staff; City Council Members; the Redwood City Library
Foundation; and the Redwood Shores Community Association.
e strong sense of community collaboration, dedication,
commitment and partnership, were themes throughout.
e Friends of the Library Bookstore,
sponsored the celebration. ey also had
a wide variety of books for sale.
e Redwood City Library Foundation
interacted with community members
and shared their vision.
Comedian/juggler Owen Baker-Flynn,
wowed the audience. e special
Birthday Storytime really captivated the
younger audience, culminating with
everyone singing Happy Birthday to the
Redwood Shores Branch Library and
enjoying a piece of cake!
During the course of the celebration
activities, 250-300 people joined us.
ank you to each and every one of
you that have helped to make the
Redwood Shores Branch library a pinnacle of the community.
On Monday, September 10th the City Council of Redwood City
recognized the Redwood City Library Foundation (RCLF) for its
20 years of service in supporting Redwood City Public Libraries.
e proclamation was presented by Redwood City Mayor Ian Bain
followed by some words from both RCLF Board Chair Nancy
Radcliff and RCLF Executive Director Rouslana Yaroslavsky.
During the presentation, Yaroslavsky offered these thoughts: “
We tend to forget that we
live in a society, not in an
economy. And libraries
are unique institutions
that provide open access
to our shared values,
cultures and traditions.
Redwood City Library Foundation is honored to support our public
library as a reflection of society for 20 years. Our future projects
include Redwood Shores Interpretive Center upgrades and
Makerspace in the Downtown Library, and we hope we can count
on your support to strengthen our libraries.”
e PILOT October 2018 Page 13
Page 14 October
August 2018
2018 e
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e PILOT October 2018 Page 17
IT’S ELEMENTARY
MiChAel Milliken, Ph.d.
BRSSd SuPeRintendent
e school year began very well, with all of our students assigned by Monique Seibel
to attend a neighborhood school. We have some interesting It was sunny and breezy for the men’s and women’s doubles
developments to share, and you are invited to our “Save the tournament on September 15th. Twelve women gathered at
Music” festival on Sunday, October 14th. Shorebird and nine men at Quay for some very lively tennis. e
GOAlS fOR 2018-19 eight-game/no-ad sets went quickly, with only one bye for each
player. Scores were tallied individually by the total number of
Last month, the school board identified the District’s goals for
games won over the four sets played. e men’s and women’s
the 2018-19 school year:
format occurs only once or twice a year, and it’s an interesting
• Ensure the District’s long-term fiscal health. We will advocate change from mixed doubles.
to improve state funding, operate more efficiently, and educate
the parents and community about the vital role of local support. Cynthia Hunton was the tournament director, Barb Urrutia
brought the courtside refreshments, and Mike Venturino helped
• Prepare our students for citizenship in an increasingly global
with the photos. Dennis Murphy and Cynthia Hunton shopped
society. Our new history/social science curriculum will be a
for tournament prizes—a pirate theme for hurricane season.
terrific first step in achieving this goal.
Kathi Williams and Gary Durr hosted the social. Many thanks
• Develop students’ capacity to innovate. California’s new science to all of them. And let’s not forget our president, Nicola Tidwell,
standards now include engineering. anks to SchoolForce, who never fails to bring her leaf blower to clear pine needles and
the District’s non-profit foundation, this year all classrooms will leaves from the courts prior to play.
have access to “tinker kits” to allow students to practice applied
problem solving and design.
did yOu knOw?
e state funds our schools based upon attendance, not enrollment.
Fortunately, our students’ daily attendance is quite high—over
96%. Nevertheless, regular school attendance is important to
student learning. Of course, while we want students to stay home
when they’re sick, this year, we will be encouraging our school
district families to take their vacations only during school breaks.
tentAtive AGReeMent with teACheRS
District representatives and the Belmont-Redwood Shores Faculty
Association (BRSFA) came to an agreement on compensation for
2018-19 and extended the bargaining agreement through 2021.
Compensation and benefits for 2019-20 and 2020-21 will be
negotiated ahead of each of those two school years. We are excited at evening members gathered for a casual but delicious pot-
about the agreement, as it provides an incremental increase to luck meal. Kathy and Gary (above right) went all-out with the
salaries, helping our educators with the rising cost of living. pirate theme—with decorations, rum mai tais and pirate finger
SAve the MuSiC feStivAl puppets. Cynthia awarded the prizes—rum, Belgian Piraat beer,
and “claws” designed for making pulled chicken or pulled pork.
Please join us for our annual Save the Music Festival on Sunday,
Clever and handy! e women’s first prize winner was Marie
October 14th, from 11am to 5:30pm at Twin Pines Park in
Jones (above left, wearing pink); second prize went to Micki
Belmont. is is a fun community event for all ages with
Carter. In the men’s match, Mike Venturino took first prize and
outstanding music (on three stages), food, and drink. anks to
Valery Soloviev second prize.
Oracle for being a major sponsor. Please join the party and
support the music programs in our local schools! For details, go Our next big event is the annual weekend away at beautiful
to http://schoolforce.org/save-the-music/. Pajaro Dunes on the Monterey coast, followed by this month’s
We appreciate the community’s support. If you have feedback tournament on October 20th.
for us, please contact me or a member of our Board: Huan Phan, For information about the club, or to join, visit www.rstc.org.
Rahila Passi, Suvarna Bhopale, Amy Koo, and Robert Tashjian. Let’s play tennis!
Contact information is available at brssd.org. ank you!
Page 18 October 2018 e PILOT
e PILOT October 2018 Page 19

Do You Know...
... that EVERY residence in the Shores
is covered by Covenants, Codes &
Restrictions (CC&Rs)?
Whether you live in one of our many
Home Owners Associations (HOAs)
or in the original sections of the
Shores, there are CC&Rs on ALL Shores homes!
You should have received a copy of the CC&Rs when
you purchased your home. But if you live west of Shell
and NOT in an HOA, that might have been some time
ago. If you need a new copy, email <ADB@rsca.org>.
Page 20 October 2018 e PILOT
Lilting Melodies,
Dew Water,
BBQ Nirvana
by Harvey Radin
Why is it that on Spring mornings you hear birds singing
lilting, melodic notes, but only for a relatively brief time? By
late Spring and early Summer, the sounds are changing, with
more crow and heron sounds. You’d think Spring bird melodies
would last longer. I was wondering about that and so I asked
my neighbors who have studied many species of birds.
Robins visit the Shores in Spring. ey’re making those lilting
sounds when, shall we say, they’re feeling romantic. And here’s
something else really interesting. Mockingbirds are here around
the same time, and they mimic other birds. So as Robins are
singing their songs, Mockingbirds are right there with them,
singing harmony. at’s why early Spring is so melodic.
Speaking of nature, often when the sky is clear, a lot of water
from dew in the air settles on everything outside. You see dew
water on the top of fences, on your roof, your deck and other
places. Since we’ve got this situation with droughts here in
California, could dew water be used in some way? It lands on
lawns and foliage. at’s helpful. But can it be used other
ways? When it’s soaking everything, can it be used for
cleaning? For cleaning a fence, maybe a deck? You’d have to
use caution, of course, if there’s not enough dew to do the job
properly. Wouldn’t want to scratch something while
scrubbing. But it’s interesting thinking about this. Maybe
there’s a new business model here, the dew water washing
method. Just $9.99 at Nature, Inc.
And now, a word about barbecuing. I experienced nirvana the
other evening. I’ve been a student of grilling for a long time.
I’ve read books and listened to top chefs on TV. Everyone tells
you something different. You should do this, you never want
to do that. You feel like a ping pong ball, sailing one direction,
then another. But I went with instincts, listening to the
sizzling sounds of the food I was grilling, strategically shifting
everything from hot to cooler spots on the grill, strategically
checking the aroma. You know what I mean if you’re into
grilling. And I’ll be darned, this time it actually worked!
(After a career in corporate communication,
Harvey Radin wrote books and articles about
public opinion and PR. His articles have been
published in Business Insider, American Banker
and Talking Biz News. You can reach out to him
by email at <hoastrategic@gmail.com>.)
Festive Weekend in Belmont
October 12th, 13th, 14th
Chocolate fest: indulge yourself — and lend a hand!
Chocolate candy, ice cream, cookie and dessert makers from the
Peninsula and the entire Bay Area will offer their chocolate wares
for tastings on October 12th and 13th at the 36th annual
Chocolate Fest, a community benefit sponsored by the
Congregational Church of Belmont.
is event will take place at the church, 751 Alameda de las
Pulgas, Belmont. ree tasting sessions available:
Session 1: 7 to 9:30pm on Friday, October 12th
Session 2: 1:30 to 4pm on Saturday, October 13th
Session 3: 7 to 9:30pm on Saturday, October 13th
Among the chocolate specialists who are expected to participate
this year will be 3D Candies, Sacred Chocolate, Petitpot,
Romolo’s Cannoli Factory, A-Lot-A Gelato and More, Guittard
Chocolate Co., Brehmer’s Candies, Neo Cocoa, Preston's
Candies, Kathy's Kreative Kakes, Jade Chocolates, Trader Joe’s,
Nothing Bundt Cakes and e Cocoa Exchange.
Michael Medwid’s Jazz Ensemble will play at each session which
will also feature door prizes, champagne and gourmet coffee.
Nearly 800 guests took part in the Chocolate Fest last fall.
Proceeds benefited local hunger and homeless programs such as
Samaritan House, Second Harvest, Home & Hope and projects Save the Music festival
within the church. Similar programs will benefit this year. e 16th Annual School-Force Save the
Tickets for all session are $16-$30 with a special price of $80 for Music Festival takes place on Sunday,
a family (in advance, or $100 at the door). Child care is available October 14th, from 11:00am to 5:30pm
at all three sessions and can be reserved online. Order tickets at Twin Pines Park in Belmont. is is
online at ChocolatefestofBelmont.org or call 650-593-4547. the perfect opportunity for our community to come together to
celebrate local music and generate funds for the Belmont-Redwood
Shores Public School District.
is year an exciting program promises to entertain you, your
Belmont water dog Run family, neighbors and friends all day long! In addition to great
Sign up for the Inaugural Belmont music will be local gourmet food and beverages, the Save the
Water Dog Run! You can choose the Music University with hands on learning and activity zone, and
10K, 5K, 1 mile kids and/or fido a Children’s Fun Zone filled with robotics and other exciting
course! We look forward to seeing games and activities. Of course, music is the theme at this party
you and your family on Saturday, so be sure to stop by the famous “Musical Instrument Petting
October 13th, 2018! Zoo” for an interactive music experience!
Go to belmontwaterdogrun.com for details or to register! Free parking is available at Notre Dame High School & University.
Use a school-specific code for 10% off (case-sensitive): e Festival is brought to you by the School-Force Education
Foundation. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for youth and seniors.
Redwood Shores: GRRWS10 | Sandpiper: GRSANDPIPER10
Volunteers and local artisans are still welcome to enhance the
Ralston Middle School: GRRALSTON10 Festival experience. For more information visit us online at
BRSSD: GRBRSSD10 schoolforce.org/save-the-music/.
If profitable, proceeds from this event will benefit BRSSD and CAF. anks to Oracle, KFOX, and sponsors for making this event possible.

e PILOT October 2018 Page 21

ST. MARK’S CORNER
e Gospel is the True Non-Negotiable
By Richard Watkins
I know it’s only the October issue of e PILOT and there is a whole month
and a couple of days before the 2018 general election, but the November
issue won’t come out until November 3-5 and I don’t believe two or three
days of deliberation, consideration and contemplation is enough time for
such an important topic as will be discussed below.
Before I begin in earnest, let me assure everyone reading that I am not stating
a preference to any particular candidate or political party. If you want to know
my political views or opinions you can feel free to check out my Facebook
page, Twitter account or FBI and NSA files. Now, with that said…
For many Christians, there is a list of “non-negotiable” moral issues to be
taken into consideration when voting for a political candidate. ese non-
negotiables are often talked about around voting time by various religion
focused and faith slanted individuals and organizations hoping to reinforce
the theory that if a candidate does not hold to these same beliefs or opinions,
they must not receive one’s vote; no ifs, ands, or buts. But…
ese issues can vary from source to source. For example, according to Fr.
Matthew Schneider, LC in a 2016 article in the Catholic Standard, he laid
out five issues; abortion, euthanasia, embryonic stem-cell research, human
cloning and homosexual marriage. And…he went further in that article to
suggest there should be four more: torture, civilian casualties in warfare,
religious liberty and xenophobia, racism or classism. But…
e United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in its current
publication entitled Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship: A Call
to Political Responsibility from the Catholic Bishops of the United States
with Introductory Note, states: “A Catholic cannot vote for a candidate who
favors a policy promoting an intrinsically evil act, such as abortion, euthanasia,
assisted suicide, deliberately subjecting workers or the poor to subhuman living
conditions, redefining marriage in ways that violate its essential meaning, or
racist behavior…” No mention of embryonic stem-cell research or human
cloning. And Fr. Schneider’s list did not include anything about
deliberately subjecting workers or the poor to subhuman living conditions.
As I said, differing issues per different sources. But…
What if there isn’t anyone running for office who could pass a non-negotiable
litmus test? Would four out of five be good enough if no one can rate five
out of five? What if two opponents score three out of five but the three for
each candidate were different? And…
What if a higher positioned member of the Church decrees other issues as
non-negotiable? For example, Pope Francis, as recent as this past August,
declared the death penalty as “wrong in all cases” and made a change to the
Catechism of the Roman Catholic Church, the book of doctrine, in favor of
abolishing capital punishment. Sounds like a non-negotiable to me. But
neither the USCCB nor Dr. Schneider have the death penalty in their top 5.
With all these various and differing lists, trying to figure out for which
individual candidate to cast one’s vote is tricky. Of course, one could simply
vote for the candidate of a particular party, assuming that party’s platform
coincides with one’s moral beliefs.
Ah, but that’s where it gets trickier. Still keeping all political feelings aside and
just stating facts, the 2016 Democratic National Platform called for the
continuation of legalized abortion and the abolishment of the death penalty.
On the other hand, the 2016 Republican National Platform called for the
abolishment of legalized abortion yet supported the continual legality of
capital punishment. A religious and political catch 22 wouldn’t you say?
Page 22 October 2018 e PILOT
Assuming one is supposed to take these issues into consideration when voting
and the issues are paradoxical (if this, that, but if that, this and if this, this
and if that, that) where can one turn for help to know what to do? e Bible;
that’s where.
Without it addressing these specific modern-day issues, we do have a
roadmap to follow thanks to the Gospel. Here’s what I mean: Jesus said in
Matthew 23:1, “e scribes and the Pharisees have seated themselves in the
chair of Moses; therefore, all that they tell you, do and observe, but do not do
according to their deeds; for they say things and do not do them; ey tie up
heavy burdens and lay them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are
unwilling to move them with so much as a finger.”
Jesus acknowledges those who hold the seat of Moses hold the law. As such,
the people should obey those laws because the law is from God. But He goes
on to condemn those same scribes and Pharisees for not obeying those same
laws in their actions. It’s a messianic do what they say, don’t do what they do.
Similarly, a few lines down (Matt. 23:23) Jesus says: “Woe to you, scribes and
Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected
the weightier provisions of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness; but these
are the things you should have done without neglecting the others.”
Once again, Jesus condemns those who hold authority for adhering to only
small matters of the law – the tithing of spices – but neglecting to act on
larger, more consequential matters of the law – justice, mercy and faithfulness.
Also note that Jesus does not say the tithing of spices should not be done in
lieu of justice, mercy and faithfulness, but in addition to.
ere is also the example as set forth again in the Gospel of Matthew (12:1)
that reads: “At that time Jesus went through the grainfields on the Sabbath, and
His disciples became hungry and began to pick the heads of grain and wheat. But
when the Pharisees saw this, they said to Him, “Look, Your disciples do what is
not lawful to do on a Sabbath.” But He said to them, “Have you not read what
David did when he became hungry, he and his companions, how he entered the
house of God, and they ate the consecrated bread, which was not lawful for him
to eat nor for those with him, but for the priests alone? Or have you not read in
the Law, that on the Sabbath the priests in the temple break the Sabbath and are
innocent? But I say to you that something greater than the temple is here. But if
you had known what this means, ‘I DESIRE COMPASSION, AND NOT A
SACRIFICE,’ you would not have condemned the innocent.”
Jesus makes it clear that the law is for the good of the people. But when the
people are faced with a dire situation in which keeping with the law can’t help
them, taking the right moral action is more important than adhering to the
law. Like David, sometimes setting aside the law for the sake of a common
good is the right decision.
When asked which is the greatest of the Commandments (the law) Jesus
responded, “e first is this: ‘Hear, O Israel! e Lord your God is Lord alone!
You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all
your mind, and with all your strength.’ e second is this: ‘You shall love your
neighbor as yourself.’ ere is no other commandment greater than these.”
As a wise man said to me recently, many Christians want to start with the
law and drill down to Jesus instead of starting with Jesus and building up to
the law. So, it seems to me, that when considering to whom one should cast
their vote, it should not be based on their stance or position on a certain issue,
or what kind of laws they say they’re going to pass or repeal. Rather, it should
be based on their actions. If one has constantly shown that he or she doesn’t
act in a way that is emblematic of loving God or their neighbor and the other
one has, I’m going with the other one.
After all, we are conditioned to ask ourselves, when determining what course
of action to take, what would Jesus do and not who would Jesus vote for.
 Sanit Bordeianu
650.430.3500 mobile
Sanit@SanitBordeianu.com
SanitBordeianu.com
CalBRE# 01923423

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e PILOT October 2018 Page 23
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Excellent service, good references.
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Redwood Shores Handyman

No job too small, can do almost anything.
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Call Scott 650-464-3276
or email shenderson4@aol.com
Page 24 October 2018 e PILOT
e PILOT October 2018 Page 25
From L YNN’s KITCHEN
(How a Connecticut Yankee embraced California Cuisine)
Autumn Football Fare —
Time for a New Chili Recipe!
October always brings some of our best weather to the SF Bay
Area, as any good Californian knows. e days are usually bright
and sunny, and then our wonderful fog creeps under the Golden
Gate Bridge and brings cooling relief to the many microclimates
adjacent to the Bay. It’s great hiking or cycling weather, or for
visiting with friends and watching your favorite Saturday college
football and Sunday NFL games.
is is a great new chili recipe that is easy to make, fragrant while
simmering away, and yummy for a good mid- afternoon lunch or
early evening dinner. And it combines two family favorites – chili
and nachos! What more could you possibly ask for?
VOCA – a great tool for Redwood Shores
by Shannon Guzzetta, Editor of e PILOT
Have you ever heard about a local issue coming before City Council
and wanted to share your opinion, but then life got in the way and
you never did? If you’re like me, getting to 7pm public meetings
can be really difficult. at’s why a few months ago I signed up for
VOCA, a new service that collects opinions via text message and
shares them directly with City Council.
I recently sat down with Brian Jaffe, the creator of VOCA, to learn
more about this new tool. “VOCA is meant to make civic engagement
as easy as texting a friend,” he explained. He said he created VOCA
because he believes local government has the most potential to be
truly democratic due to issues being tangible and geographically
close to citizens. Yet he also worries a lack of media coverage allows
many City Councils in the region to operate without oversight.
Finally, he pointed out that, “City Council members don’t live
hundreds of miles away – you can run into them at the grocery store.
So they’re receptive, but only if they hear you.”
To that last point about being heard,
Brian showed me a map of where
VOCA users live around Redwood
City. More than 1,000 people are
using VOCA, but only about a dozen
dots showed up over Redwood Shores.
Especially given that Redwood Shores’
own Jeff Gee and John Seybert are
retiring from the City Council this
November, as a community we could
use more representation on this promising new platform. Signup
is free, simple, and anonymous at http://voca.vote. Check it out!
Page 26 October 2018 e PILOT
nAChO tOPPed Chili
4 poblano peppers
2 large jalapeno peppers
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 pounds lean ground beef
(no more than 10% fat)
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon coriander
1 tablespoon smoked sweet paprika
2 tablespoons chili powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ cup tomato paste
1 12-ounce beer (Negra Modela or other Mexican Beer is great)
2 cups beef stock
2 14-ounce cans kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 bag corn tortilla chips
1 16-ounce can spicy refried beans
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 Fresno red chili pepper
½ cup pickled sliced jalapeno peppers
2 green onions, sliced
Place the poblano peppers and jalapeno peppers on a baking sheet
and broil them until the skin is blackened. Place the charred peppers
in a bowl, and cover with plastic wrap until the peppers are cool
enough to handle. Peel, stem and seed the peppers, and place into
the bowl of a food processor and pulse until the mixture is pureed.
While the peppers are roasting, heat the olive oil in a large Dutch
oven. Add the meat and brown well. Add onions, garlic, and
cook until the onions are softened. Add the cumin, coriander,
paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt and pepper, and cook
until fragrant, about one minute. Add the tomato paste and cook
for another minute. Add the beer, and let it bubble a minute or
two to cook off the alcohol. Add the beef stock, kidney beans
and pureed peppers, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until the
chili is thickened and the flavors have combined.
Place the chili in a casserole dish (your serving dish of choice)
and top it with the tortilla chips. Dot the tortilla chips with the
refried beans, and add the shredded cheese. Place the chili topped
nachos in a preheated 400°F oven until the beans are warm and
the cheese has melted.
Remove from oven. Garnish with sliced peppers and green
onions. Serve with one of your favorite ice cold beers and enjoy!
(Lynn Kathleen Adams has been an RSCA Board member since 1994.)
e PILOT October 2018 Page 27