Sec 1 - Palo Alto Online

Vol. XXVIII, Number 14 • Friday, November 24, 2006

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50¢

‘Déjà Vu’ is no re-tread Page 20

Weekend Edition w w w.PaloA ltoOnline.com

Seven up

Nicholas Jensen

Jazz band of seven teens mixes classics with originality Page 10

Page 32

Worth A Look 14

Eating Out 16

Movie Times 21

■ Upfront Council weighs in on Stanford rebuild Page 3 ■ Sports Stanford women rebound before hoops trip Page 28 ■ Home & Real Estate A Professorville home tour Section 2

Goings On 24

Crossword Puzzle Section 2

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Page 2 • Friday, November 24, 2006 • Palo Alto Weekly

Upfront

Local news, information and analysis

Council OKs oversized R&D, apartment project Scaled-back plan from two years ago wins narrow 5-4 support, overturning a staff denial by Molly Tanenbaum f the Palo Alto City Council hadn’t sided with developer Harold Hohbach, he said he’d walk away from his mixed-use project at 195 Page Mill Road. “I’m just going to have to give up and move on,” Hohbach said at Monday night’s council meeting. Hohbach’s controversial 157,502-square-foot project between the Caltrain tracks and Park Boulevard would exceed height and size limits in ex-

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change for making a portion of the 84 apartments below market rate. Planning Director Steve Emslie had rejected the project and Vice Mayor Yoriko Kishimoto, siding with neighbors, called Hohbach’s project a “massive, block-long, outof-scale building” because it does not conform to the manufacturing zone. The zoning would allow for a 52,486-square-foot building.

Fortunately for Hohbach, the council voted 5 to 4 in favor of his appeal, with Kishimoto, Mayor Judy Kleinberg, and Council members John Barton and Dena Mossar opposed. The vote overturned Emslie’s recent rejection of the three-story research-and-development building with housing on top. The council action puts the project back into the normal city review

process. Council members supporting the project did so in part because Hohbach agreed to 16 below-market-rate apartments instead of 13. A state housing law, Senate Bill 1818, requires incentives or concessions in return for providing a certain amount of below-market-rate apartments. (continued on page 9)

SCHOOLS

Investigator pool narrows School committee completed, agrees to smaller candidate field

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Norbert von der Groeben

eeting for the first time this week, the group of Palo Alto school officials charged with selecting an outside consultant to investigate district leadership troubles narrowed a list of potential candidates down to about six. The Organizational Development Committee plans to develop a proposal for the work before the end of the month, with the goal of selecting a consultant or team of consultants by year’s end. The group is looking for candidates with experience in education, nonprofit organizations or the law. “This is new territory for our district,” said school board member Dana Tom, who is co-chairing the committee with board member Gail Price. “There was agreement that the goal of this process is to elevate our level of leadership. We want to improve as an organization.” The committee includes Price and Tom; Associate Superintendent Scott Bowers; Suzanne Barbarasch, principal of Jordan Middle School; Lupe Garcia, principal of El Carme-

Away from it all Ronald Mah of Palo Alto spends the morning “recharging his battery” by catch-and-release fishing at Boronda Lake at Foothills Park Wednesday.

CRIME

Gunman sought

STANFORD Courtesy of Palo Alto Police Department

Palo Alto Bowl janitor suspected as accomplice; general manager off critical list

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manhunt backed by $15,000 in reward money is underway for a 25-year-old suspect in Saturday morning’s brazen attempted robbery at the Palo Alto Bowl, police disclosed late Tuesday afternoon. The general manager of the bowling alley, Harvey King, 63, was shot in the neck during the holdup. Police also said a 52-year-old janitor at the bowling alley, 4329 El Camino Real, has been implicated as a suspected accomplice but is already in jail on a parole violation. He was identified as Roosevelt Reed of Santa Clara and was arrested on Sunday with the assistance of the Santa Clara Police Department’s

Special Response Team. Further investigation identified the suspected robber in the 8:45 a.m. holdup as Michael Paul Davis, police Sgt. Sandra Brown reported. Davis was described as clean shaven, white with brown short hair and brown eyes, 5 feet 9 inches tall and about 150 pounds. He also has “extensive tattoos on both arms,” Brown stated. She said he may be driving a green Honda Element or a silver Chrysler Concorde and is believed to still be in the Bay Area. Davis “should be considered armed and dangerous as he shot the victim in the neck during the course of the robbery,” Brown said.

lo Elementary School; Gerry Larvey, vice principal of Jane Lathrop Stanford Middle School; Carol Piraino, principal of Walter Hays Elementary School; Kara Rosenberg, principal of the Adult School; and Margaret Sachs, a school psychologist. The school board decided earlier this month to hire a consultant to investigate concerns that Superintendent Mary Frances Callan and her three-member senior cabinet treat employees unfairly, among other charges. The district’s management team, which includes 48 principals, vice principals and district office coordinators, stated concerns about trust, preferential treatment and compensation and benefits in a September document sent to Callan. It remains unclear how many of the management team agreed with the document. The selected investigator is expected to make a presentation to the Board of Education at a Jan. 9 public meeting. ■ — Alexandria Rocha

Michael Paul Davis King was in critical condition for a time following surgery at Stanford Hospital. But Brown said as of Tuesday he was off the critical list, was talking with family members and reported recovering well. Police from five jurisdictions surrounded the bowling alley for more

(continued on page 7)

Council weighs in on Stanford rebuild Enthusiasm mixes with concerns over potential traffic, housing problems by Molly Tanenbaum he unveiling of Stanford’s billion-dollar hospital expansion plan caused both excitement and worry among Palo Alto City Council members Monday night. The 20-year plan includes expanding Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital by a third; building a new, 600-bed, earthquake-safe Stanford Hospital; and replacing several medical school and office buildings by 2025.

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The expansion would add 1.3 million square feet to the medical center, which will be followed by growth of Stanford Shopping Center. Though Stanford School of Medicine Dean Philip Pizzo touted the project’s potential to “benefit this community for many decades to come,” and Mayor Judy Kleinberg said it was “extraordinarily exciting,” Vice Mayor Yoriko Kishimoto pulled back on the reins. (continued on page 9)

Palo Alto Weekly • Friday, November 24, 2006 • Page 3

Upfront

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H E A LT H • H O P E • R E C O V E R Y

703 HIGH STREET, PALO ALTO, CA 94302 (650) 326-8210 PUBLISHER William S. Johnson EDITORIAL Jay Thorwaldson, Editor Jocelyn Dong, Acting Managing Editor Allen Clapp, Carol Blitzer, Assistant Editors Keith Peters, Sports Editor Rick Eymer, Assistant Sports Editor Rebecca Wallace, Arts & Entertainment Editor Don Kazak, Senior Staff Writer Alexandria Rocha, Molly Tanenbaum, Becky Trout, Staff Writers Norbert von der Groeben, Chief Photographer Nicholas Jensen, Staff Photographer Veronica Weber, Photo Intern Tyler Hanley, Assistant to the Editor & Online Editor Sue Dremann, Staff Writer, Special Sections Editor Cammie Farmer, Calendar Editor Jeanne Aufmuth, Dale Bentson, Lynn Comeskey, Kit Davey, Tim Goode, Jack McKinnon, Susan Tavernetti, Robert Taylor, Contributors Dan Shilstone, Editorial Intern Julie Park, Arts & Entertainment Intern DESIGN Carol Hubenthal, Design Director Diane Haas, Sue Peck, Senior Designers; Royd Hatta, Dana James, Paul Llewellyn, Charmaine Mirsky, Scott Peterson, Designers PRODUCTION Jennifer Lindberg, Production Manager Dorothy Hassett, Blanca Yoc, Sales & Production Coordinators ADVERTISING Vern Ingraham, Advertising Manager Cathy Norfleet, Display Advertising Sales Asst. Tony Gay, Jasbir Gill, Janice Hoogner, Sandra Valdiosera, Display Advertising Sales Kathryn Brottem, Real Estate Advertising Sales Joan Merritt, Real Estate Advertising Asst. Nerissa Gaerlan, Evie Marquez, Irene Schwartz, Classified Advertising Sales Blanca Yoc, Classified Administrative Asst. ONLINE SERVICES Lisa Van Dusen, Director of Palo Alto Online Shannon White, Assistant to Webmaster BUSINESS Iryna Buynytska, Business Manager Miriam Quehl, Manager of Payroll & Benefits Paula Mulugeta, Senior Accountant Elena Dineva, Judy Tran, Business Associates Tina Karabats, Cathy Stringari, Doris Taylor, Business Associates ADMINISTRATION Amy Renalds, Assistant to the Publisher & Promotions Director; Rachel Palmer, Promotions & Online Assistant Janice Covolo, Receptionist; Ruben Espinoza, Jorge Vera, Couriers EMBARCADERO PUBLISHING CO. William S. Johnson, President Michael I. Naar, Vice President & CFO; Walter Kupiec, Vice President, Sales & Marketing; Frank A. Bravo, Director, Computer Operations & Webmaster Connie Jo Cotton, Major Accounts Sales Manager; Bob Lampkin, Director, Circulation & Mailing Services; Alicia Santillan, Circulation Assistant; Chris Planessi, Joel Pratt, Chip Poedjosoedarmo, Computer System Associates The Palo Alto Weekly (ISSN 0199-1159) is published every Wednesday and Friday by Embarcadero Publishing Co., 703 High St., Palo Alto, CA 94302, (650) 326-8210. Periodicals postage paid at Palo Alto, CA and additional mailing offices. Adjudicated a newspaper of general circulation for Santa Clara County. The Palo Alto Weekly is delivered free to homes in Palo Alto, Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley, East Palo Alto, to faculty and staff households on the Stanford campus and to portions of Los Altos Hills. If you are not currently receiving the paper, you may request free delivery by calling 326-8210. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Palo Alto Weekly, P.O. Box 1610, Palo Alto, CA 94302. Copyright ©2003 by Embarcadero Publishing Co. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Printed by SFOP, Redwood City. The Palo Alto Weekly is available on the Internet via Palo Alto Online at: http://www.PaloAltoOnline.com Our e-mail addresses are: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]. Missed delivery or start/stop your paper? Call 650 326-8210, or e-mail circulation@paweekly. com. You may also subscribe online at www. PaloAltoOnline.com. Subscriptions are $60/yr ($30 within our circulation area).

SUBSCRIBE! Support your local newspaper by becoming a paid subscriber. $30 per year for residents of our circulation area: $60 for businesses and residents of other areas. Name: _________________________________ Address: _______________________________ City: ___________________________________


SCHOOLS

Board to discuss technology funding Tuesday Agenda includes $1.4 million boost, plus giving disadvantaged students home computers by Alexandria Rocha

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alo Alto school officials are learning that trying to keep pace with new technology is a never-ending — and expensive — task. After spending $250,000 on 160 new computers this school year, the district is now searching for more funds to replace deteriorating systems. At its meeting Tuesday night, the school board will discuss a proposal to spend $1.4 million in two years on new technology. Officials say the funds would hold the district over until the board decides whether to go for a bond measure in June 2008. “If you want ongoing funding for technology, a bond would be the most stable way to do it,” said district business manager Jerry Matranga. The district faces a cost of about $10 million every six or seven years just to refurbish basic hardware and wiring. A bond would provide the district with $1.4 million per year for technology, according to board material. Matranga said the school board will not officially vote on whether to pass a ballot measure until January 2008. In the meantime, the district’s technology situation is getting worse. Greater than 70 percent of the district’s computers are more than four years old. The elementary schools house the majority of the aging systems. Board member Barb Mitchell is advocating for a permanent line-item on the district’s budget for technology. She said that will likely be part of the next week’s discussion. Marie Scigliano, the district’s director of technology, will present the Bridge Plan for Improved Computer Access Tuesday, which proposes an additional $550,000 this school year and another $800,000 in 2007-’08 for technology. The district is also looking into

a program called iConnect, which would give economically disadvantaged students home computers by 2011. An estimated 60 to 100 district families are without. The $1.4 million would be allocated on a per student basis over the two years. This year, schools would get $73 per student. Based on this year’s enrollment, Duveneck Elementary School would get the largest chunk of funds at $37,500, and Barron Park Elementary School would get the smallest at $22,400. The figures would be recalculated for 2007-’08. Matranga said the money would come from one-time funds from the state, as well as funds that rolled over from last year’s budget. Instead of buying new technology, Matranga said the district could also put those funds into reserves or hire additional staff. Bringing on more teachers, however, would be an ongoing expense for the district. This spring, the board approved a five-year technology plan. Its priorities include: replacing old hardware; developing an online curriculum database by grade; training non-teaching staff in technology; bringing a tech coach to elementary schools; and creating a system for students to use their own computers at school. A year ago, the district was recognized as a leader in technology when officials hosted a National School Boards Association conference that attracted hundreds of educators who wanted to know what classrooms are like in the heart of the Silicon Valley. The board will discuss the Bridge Plan and additional issues Tuesday, Nov. 28, at 7 p.m. at the district’s board room, 25 Churchill Ave. To view the agenda, visit www.pausd. org. ■ Staff Writer Alexandria Rocha can be e-mailed at [email protected].

The Public Agenda PALO ALTO HISTORIC RESOURCES BOARD . . . The board will conduct its annual retreat to discuss board/developer interaction, historic-preservation incentives, protections for historic buildings during construction, and historic-overlay districts. The retreat will be held from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29 in the Lucie Stern Community Center, Fireside Room (1305 Middlefield Road). PALO ALTO PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION . . . The commission will discuss zoning ordinance changes for wireless-communication facilities, water-resources protection and landscape standards. The commission will also discuss the Draft Environmental Impact Report for a proposed 8-hour emergency water supply and storage project with new groundwater wells, a new storage reservoir and pump station. The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29 in the Council Conference Room at City Hall (250 Hamilton Ave.). ■

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i M M i G R AT i O N Page 6 • Friday, November 24, 2006 • Palo Alto Weekly

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Upfront LAND USE

Between a rock and a lawsuit Council allows conversion of granny unit to condo by Molly Tanenbaum

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he small matter of turning a College Terrace granny unit into a condominium Monday night left Palo Alto City Council members caught between what they wanted to do and what they had to do. In the end, the council voted 6-2 in favor of Brian Lee Wilson’s plan to turn the two houses on his 610 California Ave. property into condos — in which an individual owns the land and two different residents own the “air space” of each house. Council members LaDoris Cordell and Jack Morton opposed; Councilman Bern Beecham abstained. City planning staff approved the plan Aug. 4, but Wilson’s neighbor, Pria Graves, appealed the decision. “It doesn’t feel right . . . to have the intent of the zoning we bought into undermined in this fashion,” Graves said, referring to the multifamily zoning that allows homes to build “second dwelling units” in their backyards. Turning these houses into condos would remove much-needed rental housing from the market and prevent some people from affording to live in Palo Alto, she argued. On Sept. 27, the Planning and Transportation Commission narrowly recommended allowing Wilson’s subdivision with a 4-3 vote. Council members who voted to reject Graves’ appeal did so out of fairness to Wilson — who said he had

Gunman (continued from page 3)

than six hours Saturday, during which time they rescued a 22-yearold employee who had been hiding inside. Police said she took refuge in a storage closet after fleeing the area of the holdup and shooting. She had been counting receipts when the robber entered the alley and told her to lie on the floor. King arrived soon after and was shot.

worked with the city for two years on the plan — and to shield Palo Alto from a lawsuit. “I find myself torn on what I would like to do and what I feel compelled to do,” said Councilman John Barton, who “reluctantly” made the motion to support Wilson’s condo plan. City staff said rejecting Wilson’s subdivision could leave the city vulnerable to legal action because the city’s two-unit, multifamily zone ordinance is vague. “We would potentially be at risk involving litigation and possibly losing,” said Planning and Community Environment Director Steve Emslie. Morton was the most outspoken in siding with Graves. “I do not think the law allows this,” Morton said. “It’s not an individual that’s going to pay the price if we do this, it’s the neighborhood.” “Because we’re afraid we’re going to get sued, we’re going to be forced to do something the ordinance never envisioned, and that to me is wrong,” he added. Later in the meeting, the council extended an urgency ordinance with an 8-0 vote (Beecham abstaining) to prevent second dwelling units from becoming condominiums in the future. ■ Staff Writer Molly Tanenbaum can be e-mailed at mtanenbaum@ paweekly.com.

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The Palo Alto Police Department is putting up $10,000 in reward funds and the Palo Alto Bowl is offering $5,000, which would be paid “to anyone with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person responsible for the robbery and shooting.” Anyone with information should call Detective Robert Bonilla at 650-329-2558, or persons wishing to remain anonymous can call the PAPD tip line at 650-329-2190. ■

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Upfront

Stanford (continued from page 3)

She cautioned her colleagues against rushing to approve any plans. On Dec. 18, the council is expected to give city staff the go-ahead to negotiate a development agreement with the university and to a year-long environmental impact report (EIR) that would commence in January. “To me, it’s completely the wrong process,” she said. Kishimoto said that, for a city that debates 10,000-square-foot buildings, the 1.3 million-square-foot hospital expansion “is like asking us to swallow a bowling ball.” Councilman John Barton disagreed, saying Stanford’s deadlines and the city’s desire for a larger shopping center merited moving ahead. “I’m comfortable with this approach. I think it is an extremely complex process,” Barton said. To bring the 1959 Stanford Hospital up to modern earthquake standards, new buildings will be constructed at 1101 Welch Road, followed by the current hospital facility’s demolition on Pasteur Drive. The new main hospital will have private patient rooms for all 600 beds while Packard Children’s Hospital, a much newer structure than Stanford Hospital, will add 104 beds to its 257. Stanford also wants the city to grant special zoning allowances so that both hospitals can exceed Palo Alto’s 50-foot height limit. The new, seven-story Stanford Hospital would be 115 feet tall — still less than half as tall as Hoover Tower — while Packard would grow to 85 feet. Stanford hopes to break ground in 2009, with expected completion of Packard Hospital in 2013 and Stanford Hospital in 2015, according to Mark Tortorich, vice president of facilities for Stanford Medical Center. Finishing the entire project will require construction through 2025. Citing the new Stanford stadium

as proof that the university manages difficult construction projects well, Councilman Jack Morton was more eager to move forward with the medical center. “I want to begin as soon as possible,” he said. However, members of the council expressed concern over potential impacts on traffic, housing and city resources from the major expansion. Kishimoto warned about increased traffic, saying Stanford was not exempt from its responsibility to the environment. “We committed to no net increase to greenhouse-gas emissions. It’s a new world that we live in,” she said. Councilman Peter Drekmeier suggested ideas for how Stanford could mitigate the expansion’s negative effects, such as adding housing on Welch Road for hospital employees, waiving rent Palo Alto pays for use of the downtown Caltrain station and contributing funds for belowmarket-rate apartments. “This is a big project, almost the equivalent of adding a new shopping center,” Drekmeier said. “I would like to work closely with Stanford to make sure this works,” he said. He also hoped that in exchange for the development, Stanford would agree to permanently protect its land in the foothills. Though he recognized the enormous project would affect Palo Alto, Councilman Bern Beecham said it would ultimately garner community support. “It’s a resource that does impact us, but by God, how could we turn our backs on it?” he said. Before discussing development agreements for both Stanford Medical Center and the shopping center on Dec. 18, the council will hold a study session on the mall expansion on Dec. 11. ■ Staff Writer Molly Tanenbaum can be e-mailed at mtanenbaum@ paweekly.com.

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195 Page Mill (continued from page 3)

“Were it not for that, this application wouldn’t be here,” said Councilman Bern Beecham, who made the motion to support Hohbach’s appeal. Two years ago, the council rejected an even larger proposal from Hohbach for a four-story, 258,282square-foot mixed-use building with retail, 177 apartments (including 32 below-market units), research and development space and underground parking. Hohbach returned to the city a year later with his current proposal — which Emslie rejected — asking for 84 rental units and 50,000 square feet of research and development space in three stories with underground parking. Hohbach appealed. During the public hearing on Monday night, 18 members of the public spoke about the project, twothirds opposed. Several neighbors who live on Emerson Street across the Caltrain tracks and Alma Street said the mixed-use building would block their afternoon sun, increase noise and be an eyesore. “This is the worst of big-box retail without even the benefit of sales tax for you,” neighbor Suzanne Bayley said. But local business owners as well as some of Hohbach’s current tenants in another rental building supported the project. “Merchants on California Avenue are always looking at new ways

to bring people to our area. I think it adds a lot of benefits,” said Terry Shuchat, owner of the photography store Keeble & Shuchat.

“Merchants on California Avenue are always looking at new ways to bring people to our area. I think it adds a lot of benefits.” —Terry Shuchat, business owner, California Avenue Shuchat said Hohbach’s mixeduse building would be a welcome change from the “World War II tin warehouses, which are just plain ugly.” Shuchat recalled as a youngster how unsightly the stretch of Park Boulevard was, with a Pacific Ready Mix cement plant, a cannery where Fry’s electronics store now is, and a Hewlett Packard heavy-manufacturing building. Hohbach’s property is the last of that era, Shuchat said. Councilman Peter Drekmeier welcomed the additional rental housing to Palo Alto, along with the below-

market-rate apartments, and thought neighbors would not suffer as much as they predicted. “I don’t think the problems are going to be as dramatic as the concern,” he said. But Kleinberg said the apartments do not provide enough of an incentive to support a project that does not comply with city zoning regulations. “As much as I would like to support a mixed-use project with rental units, I can’t make the leap,” she said. “I don’t think we should be jumping through this many hoops to approve a project that is out of conformance.” The project got an Architectural Review Board nod in September and will return to the board for discussion about a 450-foot-long, 40-foot-high “barrier wall” between the building and the train tracks, as well as incorporating environmental construction standards. Hohbach also must mitigate certain impacts to the neighborhood, such as traffic, parking and noise. The project must include a plan to encourage alternative modes of transportation for its residents and employees, and must add a left turn lane on Park Boulevard. ■

MEMORIAL SERVICES Ellis M. Kirkham, a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died Nov. 9. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Nov. 25, at 1 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1105 Valparaiso Ave., Menlo Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of choice.

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572 College Avenue, Palo Alto (650) 493-2481 Tues – Fri: 11– 6 • Sat: 10:30 – 5:30 • Sun & Mon: Closed


Arts & Entertainment A weekly guide to music, theater, art, movies and more, edited by Rebecca Wallace

Nicholas Jensen

SEVEN FRIENDS SHARE THEIR PASSION FOR JAZZ

by Julie Park he seven members of the jazz band Late Notice are standing around in the guesthouse of tenor sax player Elliot Sanborn’s Palo Alto home. They’re doing a recording session, alternately jamming a funky tune called “Penguifunk” and talking about chord progressions.

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Nicholas Jensen

Above: Several members of the jazz band Late Notice make final tweaks before recording a song in the guest house of one of the musicians. Right: From left, musicians Evan Gitterman, Matt Segall, Grant Audet, Julian Pitt (on drums) and Elliot Sanborn play away.

Strewn on the carpet, next to the stands of sheet music, are bottles of water and a plastic bowl for the trumpeter to empty his spit valve into. The band members chat and laugh and clearly enjoy each other’s company. The seven musicians make up a pretty sophisticated jazz band; they play jazz standards by

legends such as Miles Davis and Duke Ellington, as well as some funk and a couple of original songs that they composed. They have been paid to perform at parties and at the Agenda Lounge in San Jose. But every member of Late Notice is also a (continued on next page)

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Arts & Entertainment

Welcome to the Club.

Late Notice (continued from previous page)

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Mass, Op. 86 – Dvorak Friday, December 1, 2006 – 8pm • Sunday, December 3, 2006 – 1:30pm Excerpts The from FridayThe concertMesis presented in observance of World AIDS Day Stanford Memorial Church, Stanford University • Tickets: $20 General Admission siah – Handel

To order tickets, call: (650)941-5291 or purchase online: www.peninsulasymphony.org

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freshman at Palo Alto High School. All 14 years old, the seven are a bright, articulate bunch of freshfaced teenagers who take music seriously, practicing together every Sunday for three hours, in addition to five to six hours of individual practice. Evan Gitterman plays bass and alto saxophone, while Elliot and Matt Segall play tenor sax (Matt also plays baritone sax). Grant Audet is the trumpeter. Chris Tang plays guitar. Ben Sklaroff plays the keyboard, and Julian Pitt is the drummer. But most of the band members also play other instruments as well. Matt says he came up with the idea for the band after seventh grade at Jordan Middle School, in 2005. “We were all friends,” he says. “I wanted to get a band together and knew a lot of people in the school band at Jordan.” Elliot’s dad, Noel, who runs the recording session, says some of the band members have known each other since elementary school. The name for the band came from a talent show at Jordan. The band decided to perform in the show right before it started. Hence they thought of the name “Late Notice.” One of the band members says, “Please don’t make a pun out of that. Everyone does.” Jazz isn’t typically the passion of the young, but the teenagers in Late Notice were exposed to it early in their lives. Asked how they became interested in jazz, they all mention their parents, many of whom are amateur musicians (and Julian’s mom is a professional violinist). Elliot points to his father, Noel, and says, “This guy.” Matt was introduced to jazz during breakfasts: “On Sunday mornings, my parents would put on ‘egg music,’ like Miles Davis,” he says. What’s egg music? Matt explains: “I call it ‘egg music’ because it was on while the eggs were cooking. I didn’t like the music then, but I came to it later on. I was, like, 4 years old at the time.” Given the musicians’ age, one can’t help but wonder how good the band is. Their parents think they’re very good. Noel Sanborn says, “They’re playing jazz standards that most professionals play.” Others attest to their talent as well. Gordon Fels is a professional musician in the Palo Alto and San Francisco area, and he gives private saxophone and jazz theory lessons to Matt and Evan. He said the band members “play older than they are. They’ve put on some pretty mature music.” Asked how far Late Notice can

go, Fels said: “They’re exceptionally good for their age. I have no idea what the upper limits of this band could be; it could be anything. At the level they’re at, it’s all about eventually making a record and getting airplay, and I think they’re well on their way.” Back at the jam session, Grant says, “People take us seriously once they hear us.” Matt notes, speaking of teacher Fels: “He said he wasn’t able to improvise the way we do until college, and he’s a very talented musician.” But the band isn’t terribly concerned with what other people say. Evan says: “Other people say we’re good. But we’re the most critical of ourselves.” Jazz involves a great deal of improvisation, and Late Notice’s members say they do it all the time, starting within the last year or so. Their formal education on improvisation comes from summer camp at Stanford’s Jazz Workshop, which six of the seven band members have attended. The band members seek inspiration from jazz greats, listening to recordings when they approach a new piece. But they place value on originality. Grant says, “Sometimes we base how we play on recordings, but we try to add our own touch.” Parents are a big help to the band, providing dinners or transporting equipment. Matt says: “Instead of soccer moms, (we have) band moms.” Another band member interjects, saying he plays soccer. Matt corrects himself: “Okay, we have soccer-band moms.” Clearly, the seven teenagers in Late Notice brim with confidence and precocity. They recognize that they’re unique. “I don’t think there are that many kids’ jazz bands,” says Grant. That’s why the seven feel very lucky to be able to share their love of jazz. Matt says: “It’s pretty fortunate that we all ended up together in Palo Alto. We share the passion.” ■ Info: To learn more about Late Notice or hear recordings, go to www.latenoticeband.com.

About the cover: Trumpet player Grant Audet keeps an eye on his music. Photograph by Nicholas Jensen.

We can’t fit everything in the newspaper. So check out more on the local arts scene by going to arts editor Rebecca Wallace’s blog. Head for www.PaloAltoOn line.com and scroll down to Ad Libs.

Think Globally, Post Locally.



In this Dickens parody, Mrs. Cratchit (Diahanna Davidson, left) and Ebenezer Scrooge (James G. Mantell, right) are equally nasty — delightfully so. And neither seems particularly afraid of ghosts.

Dickens on speed Bus Barn’s parody-play ‘Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge’ is a hoot by Rebecca Wallace

I

have watched and acted in many productions of the Dickens classic “A Christmas Carol.” But I’ve never seen Scrooge eat a Popsicle. And, funny, I also don’t remember the part where two Cratchit children roll on the floor in a tubercular coughing contest, seeing who can be more pitiful. It’s all part of the delicious silliness of “Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge,” a Dickens parody now playing at the Bus Barn Theatre in Los Altos. Written by Christopher Durang — who also penned “Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All For You” and “The Marriage of Bette and Boo” — this semi-musical play is in the vein of wild comedy that Durang is known for. Bus Barn’s production is a hoot, with snappy energy and the appropriate irreverent attitude. It’s a shame that the play itself doesn’t always rise to the occasion; it suffers from several rough plot spots. But that’s not the fault of the actors, who for the most part create a well-oiled comic machine. Director Linda Piccone also keeps things humming along; most of the scenes, especially in the first act, are skillfully paced. Diahanna Davidson leads the pack as cranky Mrs. C., who is sick of poverty and being married to that sap Bob Cratchit (Chuck Phelps),

who’s constantly exploited by his boss, Ebenezer Scrooge (James G. Mantell). When her malnourished children whimper about being hungry, Mrs. Cratchit snaps: “Children always want to eat. It’s disgusting.” At her wits’ end, she vows to get hammered in the local pub and throw herself off the London Bridge. Sounds appropriately Dickensian. But it’s easier said than done. “A Christmas Carol,” of course, typically focuses on Ebenezer Scrooge, who finds redemption after being visited by three ghosts. But here the story keeps looping back to Mrs. Cratchit. That’s the fault of the ghost (Alexaendrai Bond) who visits Scrooge. She can’t get her magic right, so she keeps taking Scrooge back to the Cratchit house by accident. That’s fortunate, because Davidson is a consummate comedian, with crack timing and remarkable physical-comedy skills. Her whole body shivers in ecstasy when she downs her first drink at the pub and curls up in a snarl at Tiny Tim’s treedecorating skills (“Are you blind as well as crippled?”). Anna Powell, a Castilleja School sophomore, is also hilarious as Tiny Tim, reveling in the attention she

gets as an object of pity. When her mother threatens to throw herself off the bridge, Tim exclaims delightedly: “What if she dies? Think how pathetic I’ll be then!” Other actors play a variety of ensemble roles, including Jacob Marley’s Ghost, Mr. and Mrs. Fezziwig, and others that Dickens never dreamed of. Kudos to Laura Jane Bailey for her Dutch and Irish dialect skills. Despite the script’s endemic departures from Dickens, there’s no forgetting about Mr. Scrooge. Neither Durang nor actor Mantell will let you, and that’s a very good thing. Durang seems to have the most fun with this character, maybe because the typical Scrooge can be a cliche in the wrong hands. Here he’s got some quirks that elevate him from plain stage meanie. There’s the Popsicle thing, yeah, but this Scrooge also has a sex drive. Mantell delights in his role, alternately roaring grouchily and grinning with mad glee. There are also some nice quirks in Barbara J. Cannon’s costumes, including the Fezziwigs’ wigs that make them look like a cross between Ronald McDonald and Krusty the Clown. Anachronisms abound in what was originally an 1840s story. For example, Enron’s Kenneth Lay tries to enlist Scrooge in a scheme selling “energy units.” Unsurprisingly, our Ebenezer loves the idea. Also, when Scrooge is first visited by the ghost, he dismisses her as a nightmare caused by overeating, calling her “fermenting RiceA-Roni.” It’s not a sophisticated joke, and indeed some of the humor is sophomoric, but it all goes so fast that it doesn’t really matter. If you don’t like one joke, hang on and wait for the next. Unfortunately, the script got too ridiculous for me several times in the second act, when the plot just veers off too far. Suddenly, the script is referencing “Touched By An Angel,” characters are turning into animals, and there’s way too much time spent explaining every plot twist. In the immortal words of “Urinetown, The Musical,” “You can kill a show with too much exposition.” The play also includes a handful of songs. The lyrics weren’t particularly clever, and to me the numbers were a distraction from the play’s mostly tight humor. It was pretty funny to watch Tiny Tim repeatedly try to dance and fall down, though. God bless him, every time. ■

Introducing our new Music Director, Thomas Shoebotham, with a concert of Fauré, Lalo, and Dvorák 8 pm Saturday October 21, 2006

Cubberley Theatre

Tickets $7/$14/$16 at the door or online

www.paphil.org

4000 Middlefield Rd Palo Alto, CA

Come meet Thomas at a Pre-concert Reception 6:30-7:30pm Room M-4, backstage at Cubberley

What: “Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge” by Christopher Durang, presented by the Bus Barn Stage Company Where: Bus Barn Theatre, 97 Hillview Ave., Los Altos When: Through Dec. 16, with performances Thursday through Saturday and certain Wednesdays (Dec. 6, 13) and Sundays (Nov. 26, Dec. 3, Dec. 10). Cost: $24-$30. Info: Call 650-941-0551 or go to www.busbarn.org. Palo Alto Weekly • Friday, November 24, 2006 • Page 13


Worth a Look stanford.edu.

Theater ‘The Learned Ladies of Park Avenue’ Jay Blakesberg

The Kronos Quartet plays at Stanford University on Dec. 1, playing four works commissioned specially for the group.

CHRISTMAS TREES &WREATHS Music Nativity School will be selling both Christmas Trees and Wreaths beginning Friday, November 24th and ending on Friday, December 15th. This is a fundraiser for Nativity School.

•HOURS• Monday-Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

2:30 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. -

8:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m.

NATIVITY SCHOOL Corner of Oak Grove & Laurel, Menlo Park For information please call (650) 328-3216 Fire-Proofing and Delivery Service are available THIS SPACE IS DONATED AS A COMMUNITY SERVICE BY THE

PALO ALTO WEEKLY

The Bowman program builds confidence, creativity and academic excellence.

Kronos Quartet

If you like the Kronos Quartet’s concert on Dec. 1, you can think fond thoughts not only of the chamber-music group, but of Palo Alto resident Margaret I. Dorfman. The concert program features four works that Dorfman commissioned for the quartet over the past 14 years: Sofia Gubaidulina’s Quartet No. 4 (inspired by T.S. Eliot’s poetry); Peteris Vasks’ Quartet No. 5; “The Sad Park” by Michael Gordon (which includes the recorded voices of children); and “ParaMetaString” by Unsuk Chin. The Grammy-winning quartet — which consists of violinists David Harrington and John Sherba, violist Hank Dutt and cellist Jeffrey Zeigler — is set to perform at 8 p.m. next Friday in Dinkelspiel Auditorium at Stanford University. Tickets are $44/$40, with discounts available for students, young people and groups. Call 650-725-ARTS or go to livelyarts.

Molière meets Cole Porter when “The Learned Ladies of Park Avenue” come to town. This David Grimm play has its West Coast premiere next week at the Lucie Stern Theatre in Palo Alto, presented by TheatreWorks. Based on Molière’s “Les femmes savantes,” the play — billed as a “screwball comedy in rhyming couplets” — takes place in Porter’s Jazz Age, during the Great Depression. It follows a gentleman who learns that the mother of his high-society gal wants her to hook up with someone else, a pretentious poet. “Learned Ladies” previews Nov. 29, Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, with opening night planned for Dec. 2. The show is scheduled to run through Dec. 23 at the theater at 1305 Middlefield Road, with performances Tuesday through Sunday. Tickets are $20-$56, with some discounts available. Call 650-9036000 or go to www.theatreworks. org.

Dance Smuin Ballet

How many dance events do you know that include all of these musical styles: Latin motets, Russian klezmer, Willie Nelson and Bach compositions, and a French New Year’s carol? Clearly, the dancers of Smuin

Ballet are going to be busy during their annual Christmas Ballet, which comes to the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts next Friday and runs through Dec. 3. The event includes a “classical” first act and a “cool” second act, blending ballet with tap, swing and other dance styles. Works scheduled to be performed include “Resonet in laudibus,” a piece for three female dancers set to Latin motets sung by the Fortuna ensemble; and a company-wide piece set to the popular holiday song “What Are You Doing On New Year’s Eve?” Tickets are $45-$55, with discounts available for seniors and students. The performing arts center is at 500 Castro St. in Mountain View. Call 650-903-6000 or go to www.smuinballet.org.

Holidays Christmas tree-lighting

A 30-foot Christmas tree gets all dolled up next Monday during a community tree-lighting at the Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley in East Palo Alto. The tree is scheduled to be lit at 6 p.m. by East Palo Alto Mayor Ruben Abrica, but the whole event runs from 4 to 7 p.m. and also will include such holiday events as cookie-decorating and ornament-making for families. Several children’s choirs are also scheduled to perform holiday carols in gospel style and from the Latino and Pacific Islander traditions. The hotel is at 2050 University Ave.; call 650-566-1200 for more information.

25th Anniversary Open House

Lower School - Grades K - 5

You are cordially invited to join us at Sunrise of Palo Alto

Middle School - Grades 6 - 8

Tuesday, December 5 from 4-7pm

Individualized, self-directed program

Please join us for an open house as we celebrate 25 years of serving seniors and their families.

Rich international & cultural studies

We invite you to join us as we recognize our residents, friends and neighbors during our anniversary celebration. Mix and mingle with our staff and residents and enjoy festive gourmet appetizers.

Proven, Montessori approach State-of-the-art facility Low student-teacher ratio

RCFE # 435294227

Palo Alto

Sunrise of Palo Alto

650-326-1108

2701 El Camino Real

www.bowmanschool.org

Assisted Living, Alzheimer’s Care

4000 Terman Drive l Palo Alto, CA l Tel: 650-813-9131

For more information and a FREE online newsletter, visit www.sunriseseniorliving.com


MEXICAN Fiesta Del Mar 965-9354 1006 N. Shoreline Blvd., Mountain View Mexican Cuisine & Cantina Fiesta Del Mar Too 967-3525

Restaurant of the week

735 Villa Street, Mountain View Open Weeknites to 11pm, Weekends to 12pm Palo Alto Sol 328-8840 408 California Ave, Palo Alto Huge menu • Homestyle Recipes

AMERICAN

FRENCH

Armadillo Willy’s 941-2922 1031 N. San Antonio Rd., Los Altos Range: $5.00-13.00

Chez TJ 964-7466 938 Villa St., Mountain View Tues-Sat Dinners only 5:30-9:00pm “Outrageously good” New French-American fare —Zagat 2003

Hobee’s 856-6124 4224 El Camino Real, Palo Alto Also at Town & Country Village, Palo Alto 327-4111

CAFES Crepes Cafe 473-0506 1195 Merril St., Menlo Park Corner Oak Grove Ave. Mon-Sat 8am-9pm Sunday 8am-4pm www.crepescafe.com

CHINESE Chef Chu’s (650) 948-2696 1067 N. San Antonio Road on the corner of El Camino, Los Altos 2002 Zagat: “Gold Standard in Fresh Chinese Cuisine.” Jing Jing 328-6885 443 Emerson St., Palo Alto Authentic Szechwan, Hunan Food To Go, Delivery www.jingjinggourmet.com Ming’s 856-7700 1700 Embarcadero East, Palo Alto www.mings.com New Tung Kee Noodle House 520 Showers Dr., MV in San Antonio Ctr. Voted MV Voice Best ‘01, ‘02, ‘03 & ‘04 Prices start at $3.75 See Coupon 947-8888 Peking Duck 856-3338 2310 El Camino Real, Palo Alto We also deliver. Su Hong—Menlo Park Dining Phone: 323–6852 To Go: 322–4631 Winner, Palo Alto Weekly “Best Of” 8 years in a row! Windy’s (Chinese) 325-3188 168 University Ave., Palo Alto Award-winning food. Catering/To Go

INDIAN

PIZZA Fandango Pizza 494-2928 3163 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto Live Bluegrass Music www.fandangopizza.com Pizza My Heart 327-9400 220 University Ave., Palo Alto

Cafe Bombay 948-9463 4546 El Camino, Los Altos at San Antonio Lunch, Dinner, Buffets every day Darbar Indian Cuisine 321-6688 129 Lytton, Downtown Palo Alto Lunch Buffet M-F; Open 7 days

Range: $1.50-16.50 Pizza Chicago 424-9400 4115 El Camino Real, Palo Alto This IS the best pizza in town Spot A Pizza 324-3131 107 Town & Country Village Voted Best Pizza in Palo Alto

Janta Indian Restaurant 462-5903 369 Lytton Ave., Downtown Palo Alto Lunch Buffet M-F; Organic Veggies

www.spotpizza.com

ITALIAN

Trader Vic's 849-9800

Oregano’s 941-3600 4546 El Camino, Los Altos Gourmet Pasta, Pizza. Banquet Rooms

Try our Sunday á la Carte Brunch!

POLYNESIAN

4269 El Camino Real, Palo Alto

Spalti Ristorante 327-9390 417 California Ave, Palo Alto Exquisite Food • Outdoor Dining

Lunch Tue-Fri 11:30am - 2pm Brunch Sun 10:30am - 2pm Dinner Mon-Thurs 5-10pm; Fri-Sat 5-11pm; Sun 4:30 - 9:30pm

Established as one of the Peninsula’s best Chinese restaurants, Chef Chu’s is known world-wide for its innovative, tempting cuisine and charismatic owner, Lawrence C. C. Chu. Chef Chu’s is a lively, bustling place, with Chef Chu himself often at the center of the activity.

1067 N San Antonio Rd Los Altos, CA 94022 Phone: (650) 948-2696 Fax: (650) 948-0121 Open daily from 11:30 am - 9:30 pm Weekends 12 noon - 10pm Non-Stop

Lounge open nightly

SEAFOOD

Trattoria Buon Gusto 328-2778 651 Maloney Lane, Menlo Park Sicilian Menu • Family owned

Cook’s Seafood 325-0604

JAPANESE & SUSHI

751 El Camino Real, Menlo Park Seafood Dinners from

Fuki Sushi 494-9383 4119 El Camino Real, Palo Alto Open 7 days a Week

$5.95 to $9.95

LEBANESE

Indochine 853-1238

THAI

Thai & Vietnamese Cuisine Illusions fayrouz Dining & Entertainment 260 S.California Ave, Palo Alto 650-321-6464 Lunch: Tue-Fri, Dinner: Tues-Sun Take out, Banquet facility, Dancing, Live Entertainment, Hookah www.illusionssuperclub.com

Grand Opening 2710 Middlefield Rd, Palo Alto Krung Siam 322-5900

Search a complete listing of local restaurant reviews by location or type of food on

PaloAltoOnline.com

423 University Ave., Palo Alto King of Krung Siam 960-7077 194 Castro St., Mtn. View Palo Alto Weekly • Friday, November 24, 2006 • Page 15

• Vegetable Sushi • Combo Sushi

650-323-9449 MIYAKE

From the ovens of the Mediterranean

www.miyake-usa.com

140 University Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94301

A

Full menu all day and into the night

Open Daily 6 a.m. to 2 a.m

Samboosak

unique place in your neighborhood where the sidewalk caffes and patisseries of European capitals mix with traditional Mediterranean food and hospitality

Hummus

Min. Order $20

Panini Pastries Falafel

We accept Visa & Mastercard

th m wi r 9p t n e ou aft c dis rd % t ca 10 en d stu

Desserts

• Dinner Obento $9.25

Salads

• Lunch Obento &6.25 Beef Teriyaki Tempura Salmon Teriyaki Rice & Salad • Sushi

Focaccia

Japanese Food to Go. Delivery

135 Castro Street www. netocaffe.com 650-6 650-625-9888 5-9888

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PA LO

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2003

BEST OF 2000

BEST FRESH FISH • BEST SEAFOOD

Specialize in hot and spicy dishes (mild also available) Banquet and catering are available Call for special banquet and catering menu

Cook’s Seafood Restaurant & Market “A GREAT PLACE TO EAT LUNCH OR DINNER”

Seafood Dinners from $595 to $995 Clam Chowder - Seafood Salads Our Award Winning Fish & Chips

Explore the Healthy World of Tea at

Prepared from the finest Alaskan halibut.

Also featuring a full service fresh fish market. Restaurant: Mon-Sat 11-8:30 pm, Fri ‘til 9 pm Market: Mon - Sat 9 - 7, Closed Sunday

• Hundreds of fine, loose-leaf teas from around the world • black tea • green tea • white tea • oolong tea • fruit-flavored tea • herbal & tisanes • We help you select your favorite loose teas and offer advice on brewing tea at home

751 El Camino Real Menlo Park, CA 94025

Call in Orders Welcome Phone 650 325-0604 or 322-2231

• Daily tea sampling! • Exclusive tea accessories & gifts; tea pots & presses, strainers & filters, tea cup sets & mugs, and more! • Also available – English tea bags, such as PG Tips, Taylors of Harrogate, Yorkshire Gold, Tetley and more!

WE HAVE YOUR ROOM!

BUY 8 OZ. OF ANY LOOSE TEA Mon thru Sat 10:30 am to 7:00 pm Sun 11:00 am to 5:00 pm

and receive free loose tea samples

542 Ramona Street | Palo Alto | 650-328-2877 | www.tea-time.com

bulk tea

tea ware

tea parties

catering

• COMPLIMENTARY BREAKFAST BUFFET • 24 HOUR FITNESS CENTER • HEATED POOL

ASK FOR SPECIAL

ALL FOOD AVAILABLE TO GO!

GOLD MEDAL WINNER

“BEST PIZZA” 939 W. El Camino Real, Mountain View Between Shoreline and Castro

MANDARIN GOURMET R

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Winner of Best Chinese Food

LT O W E

BEST OF

Curbside pick-up • Valet parking

2006

420 Ramona, Palo Alto (between University & Lytton)

650-328-8898

Mon. - Thur.: 11am - Midnight ◆ Friday: 11am - 1:00am Saturday: 11:30am - 1:00am ◆ Sunday: 11:30am - 11:00pm

www.MandarinGourmet-PaloAlto.com

www.fjlmountainview.com

Delivery Available


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Classy Dining Experience & Fine Healthy Food K LY

Voted Stanford University’s

X HOLIDAY INN

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Open Late 7 Days a Week (650) 967-5384

EL CAMINO REAL

PA L O

Est. 1947 Veal ◆ Pasta ◆ Seafood

93 W. El Camino Real, Mountain View • 650-967-6957 Mountain View Town Center • www.hitowncenter.com

237 GRANT RD

1st Pizzeria on El Camino Real

HWY

z HOLIDAY RATES z

Eating Out NOW SERVING Following are condensed versions, in alphabetical order, of longer restaurant reviews published in the Weekly over the past several years. This week’s reviews begin where the list ended one week ago. Mikado, 161 Main St., Los Altos (650) 917-8388 In addition to a full sushi bar, the casually elegant Mikado also serves a tantalizing array of Japanese cuisine, from the tried-and-true teriyaki dishes to some more exotic delights. Lunch Tue.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner Tue.-Sun. 5-9:30 p.m. (Reviewed Jan. 26, 1996) Mike’s Cafe Etc., 2680 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto (650) 473-6453 Owner Mike Wallau has been in the restaurant business for a quarter century and has decided simply to serve his favorite dishes at his popular Midtown eatery. Many of the dishes are Italian. Mon.-Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m.-9 p.m. (Reviewed July 3, 1998) Mike’s Cafe Menlo Park, 150 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park (650) 321-7377 Mike Wallau follows up his popular Palo Alto cafe with this handsome neighborhood restaurant serving mostly ItalianAmerican dishes. Brunch on the patio is good for kids or dates, and those with big appetites will enjoy the omelets and sides. Mon.-Fri. Breakfast 7-11 a.m.; Lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Dinner 4-9 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. Brunch 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Dinner 4-9 p.m. (Reviewed July 2, 2004) Ming’s, 1700 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto (650) 856-7700 This highly regarded giant of a restaurant is known for its dim sum and chicken salad. Southern Chinese cuisine, powerlunching businesspeople. Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun. 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Miyake, 140 University Ave., Palo Alto (650) 323-9449 Hip, raucous, crowded, generous sushi in dizzying array of options. Not the place for a quiet meal. Sit at the sushi bar and watch the plates of raw fish creations float by. Mon.-Thu. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. $$ (Reviewed Jan. 2, 2004) Monte Carlo, 228 Castro St., Mountain View (650) 988-1500 Although boasting a plush decor at this Castro Street restaurant, entrees are disappointing. Stick to the salads and desserts. Open daily. Lunch 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner 5:30 to 10 p.m. (Reviewed June 24, 2005) Mountain Mike’s Pizza, 2000 W. El Camino Real, Mountain View (650) 694-7800 This mini-chain offers specialty pizzas, such as “The Everest” and “Mt. Veggimore” and sandwiches, such as the “Cliff Hanger.” Daily 1 a.m.-11 p.m. Mountain View Bakery and Cafe, 301 Castro St., Mountain View (650) 6919715 Located on the second floor of Books Inc, this small cafe provides a convenient and relaxing way to savor a book. Aside from the standard breads and desserts, Mountain View Cafe and Bakery serves sandwiches and salads. Mon.-Thu. 8 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri. 8 a.m.-midnight; Sat. 9 a.m.-midnight; Sun. 9 a.m.-11 p.m. (Reviewed June 20, 2003) Naomi Sushi Pasta Grill, 1328 El Camino Real, Menlo Park (650) 321-6902 Despite the restaurant’s East/West aspirations, there is plenty that’s purely Japanese about Naomi Sushi. The short menu has classic bento boxes, chicken, vegetarian, grilled salmon and chef’s specials, teriyakis like beef sirloin, chicken, or unaju (cooked eel over rice). Tue.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.2:30 p.m.; Tue.-Thu. 5-9:30 p.m.; Fri.-Sun. 5-10 p.m. (Reviewed Dec. 26, 1997) Neiman Marcus Cafe, 400 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto (650) 3293329 This white tablecloth affair seems to have seen better days. Although service is doting, the menu has terminology issues, misleading customers on certain dishes -- a “souffle” could show up as a crispy meringue or as a Jello salad. Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sun. noon-4 p.m. (Reviewed March 22, 2002) Neotte Tea Bar, 429 University Ave., Palo Alto (650) 330-1738 Tea, tea, and more tea. White, green, oolong, red, black, herb (including the intriguingly named Eight Babes and Iron Goddess Green). The tea bar makes plenty of claims about tea’s healing properties, but you may choose simply to enjoy your

Eating Out NeoLatte. Daily 11 a.m.-10 p.m. New China Delight, 360 Castro St., Mountain View (650) 961-6635 Co-owner Cheny Xu says his goal with New China Delight is to introduce Americans to lesser-known Chinese cooking. Diners will find an extensive menu of sumptuous dishes, such as diced rabbit in Sichuan oil, calamari with sizzling rice, and fish soup with pickled vegetables. Open Sunday through Saturday 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5 p.m.-midnight (Reviewed Jan. 14, 2005) New Mas, 1477 Plymouth St., Mountain View (650) 960-0268 This is your basic Chinese restaurant specializing in home-made noodles, chicken and beef dishes. Take-out, delivery and sit-down. Lunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Dinner daily 4:30-9:30 p.m. New Orient Restaurant, 2105 Old Middlefield Way, Mountain View (650) 965-1888 Although this small Chinese restaurant does have a few tables for a sit-down meal, it mainly covers to-go orders and catering. Specializes in office parties, private parties, etc. Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-9 p.m. New Sweet Home Church and Outreach Ministry, 2170 Capitol Ave., East Palo Alto Located in the parking lot of the New Sweet Home Church, this small barbecue joint serves up ribs and other slow-cooked meats from a small kitchen with adjacent smoker rig. Fri.-Sat. 7 a.m.-7 p.m. New Tung Kee Noodle House, 520 Showers Dr., Mountain View (408) 761-3012 New Tung Kee Noodle House, part of a mini-chain of restaurants with other locations in San Jose, has a simple menu featuring noodle dishes and a variety of soups. Daily 9 a.m.- 9 p.m. New York Pizza, 325 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto (650) 328-6800 Mini-pizzas, pizza by the slice and fullsized pizzas. 25 available toppings to create your own pizza. Takeout and sit-down. No credit cards. Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (Reviewed May 16, 2003) Niebaum-Coppola Palo Alto , 473 University Ave., Palo Alto (650) 752-0350 This is the second such establishment owned by Hollywood legend Coppola (“The Godfather,” “Apocalypse Now”). You can buy just about everything you eat or eat off and like an upscale Hard Rock Cafe, everything is branded with the Niebaum-Coppola imprint. Daily 10 a.m.-11 p.m. (Reviewed Dec. 1, 2000) Noah’s Bagels, 278 University Ave., Palo Alto (650) 473-0751 A Noah’s shop is a slick combination of schmaltz and kitsch. A variety of steamed

bagels and other goodies, such as muffins and knishes. There are also branches in Mountain View, Redwood City, and other nearby cities. Mon.-Fri. 6 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. 7 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. (Reviewed July 25, 2003) Nola, 535 Ramona St., Palo Alto (650) 328-2722 Southwestern, Cajun, Creole and Caribbean-fusion restaurant and bar boasts a festive atmosphere. Creative drink specials include a New Orleans-style hurricane. Pleasant outdoor patio. Mon.-Thu. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri: 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat. 4-11 p.m.; Sun. 5:30-9 p.m. (Reviewed June 4, 2004) Nora’s Cafe, 201 California Ave., Palo Alto (650) 322-8586 Nora’s Cafe is a very authentic French bistro that serves tasty food but suffers from weak service. Seafood, chicken and meats are well prepared. Breakfast/lunch: Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 8 a.m.10 p.m.; Dinner 5-10 p.m..(Reviewed May 7, 2004) Nordstrom Cafe, 550 Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto (650) 323-5111 Shockingly good prices, an array of enjoyable salads, attentive service and a comfortable environment shine at this cafe located on the second floor of Nordstrom’s. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (Reviewed March 22, 2002) Oak City Bar and Grill, 1029 El Camino Real, Menlo Park (650) 321-6882 Oak City serves up a wonderful variety of freshly made American meals, from macaroni and cheese to top quality steaks. Be sure to sample an organic fresh fruit-infused vodka martini from the captivating bar. Lunch: Mon.-Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Dinner: Mon.-Sat. 5:30-10 p.m., Sun. 5:309 p.m. (Reviewed Oct. 17, 2003) Oasis, The, 241 El Camino Real, Menlo Park (650) 326-8896 Peanut shells coat the floor and Stanford memorabilia covers the walls at this restaurant and sports bar. Menu consists of your basic burgers, pizza, chicken sandwiches, etc. Daily 11 a.m.-1 a.m. (Reviewed Aug. 8, 2003) Ohana Hawaiian BBQ, 146 Castro St., Mountain View (650) 314-0088 Plenty of protein-heavy options, including Volcano Chicken, Kalua Pork with Cabbage, grilled or fried mahi mahi, fried shrimp and Spam Loco Moco. Salads, burgers, Super Bowls (boasting a pound of meat, rice and veggies in each bowl), and tropical smoothies as well. This chain has branches in Northern and Southern California. Mon.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun. 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. Old Pro Sports Grill, 2865 El Camino

Building Community With Crêpes • Sandwiches • Coffee • Wine

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Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner Daily, 8am to 10pm

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650-323-1815 • 548 Ramona Street, Palo Alto Between University and Hamilton

(continued on next page)

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Expert fittings and personalized service by owner, Marcia. New lines arriving weekly in time for the holiday shopping season.

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Ceviche Live Oysters Hamachi & Avocado Ceviche Seafood Lobster Spring Rolls Steamed P.E.I. Mussels & Clams Seared Scallops with sun-dried tomato risotto

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Meat Seared Foie Gras Mini Sandwich Grilled Lamb Chops Pork Baby Back Ribs Veal Osso Bucco Asian Style Duck Tacos Pulled Pork in lettuce cups

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Broccolini sautéed with garlic

Pasta, Soups, Olives, Cheese Spanish Olives Duck Wontons with duck consommé

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Open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm


Eating Out

Help Restore Your Local Creek!

Call me today about our full line-up. (Auto. Home. Life. Commercial.)

The San Francisquito Watershed Council needs your help restoring streamside habitat.

(650) 691-4770

It’s good for the environment and it’s fun! ~All activities 9:30am to 12:30 pm~

DATE

ACTIVITY

LOCATION

OCT 7 NOV 4 DEC 2

Ivy removal / planting prep Native planting Native planting

El Palo Alto Park, PA El Palo Alto Park, PA Woodside Elementary

For locations and directions: see www.SanFrancisquito.org/Events This project is sponsored in part by the Dept of Water Resources Urban Streams Restoration Program, the NOAA Community-Based Restoration Program (NOAA-CRP), the Institute for Fisheries Resources– NOAA CRP Partnership, and the San Mateo Countywide Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program – a program of C/CAG Volunteers are also needed at the Native Plant Nursery – [email protected]

~The San Francisquito Watershed Council~

Ryan Navratil

650.961.1035 x310 [email protected]

BALDEV MANN Insurance Agent 1901 OLD MIDDLEFIELD WAY STE 6 MOUNTAIN VIEW [email protected] CA Lic: 0F24165 Subject to availability and qualifications. Insurance offered only with select companies. Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company, Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, and Allstate Life Insurance Company: Northbrook, Illinois ©2006 Allstate Insurance Company.

Lydian Academy Opens in Progress report problems? Want to Menlo raise your Parkgrades? Offering 1-1 instruction for high school credit and other educational Lydian Academy can services. help. Free college application workshop in Oct. & Nov. WeSubmit offer tutoring, 1-1application instruction with for high your CSU timeschool to spare and receive expert coaching from credit, and other educational services. our collegetocounselor Callcertified 650-321-0550 schedule. your free initial consultation. Call 650-321-0550 to reserve. 815 El Camino Real, Menlo Park 650-321-0550 • www.lydianacademy.com

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(continued from previous page) Real, Palo Alto (650) 325-2070 Palo Alto’s oldest bar-restaurant combination, the Old Pro offers 20 television sets that broadcast every sporting event you can imagine. Add to that suds, grub, and jillions of sports memorabilia items and what you have is a local landmark. A second location is at 541 Ramona St. in downtown Palo Alto. Daily 11:30 a.m.10:30 p.m. (Opens early for games during football season.) (Reviewed Oct. 4, 2002) Old Pro Sports Grill, 541 Ramona St., Palo Alto (650) 326-1446 The painted motto on the window proudly reads, “House of Protein” and it is not false advertising. Don’t come here on a diet unless it’s Atkins. Great ribs and beef brisket are smoked on the premises, and steak bites and burgers are the main attraction. Gilroy garlic fries were, however, in need of more garlic. There’s not a bad seat in the house, as some 30 television sets make sure you don’t miss a play while you eat. If the game goes into overtime, be sure to order s’mores to share. Daily 11:30 a.m.1:30 a.m. (Reviewed Feb. 4, 2005) Olive Garden, 2515 El Camino Real, Palo Alto (650) 326-5673 Chain restaurant serving northern and southern Italian foods. All-you-can-eat soup and salad. Children’s menu. Sun.Thu. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Olives Cafe, 450 Serra Mall, Stanford (650) 724-3160 This Mediterranean eatery on Stanford University’s campus serves grab-’n’-go salads, gourmet sandwiches, snacks and desserts. There’s also a cafeteria-style “hot” line offering pizzettas, soups and grilled combo plates. Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Closed during the summer. (Reviewed Nov. 8, 2002) Oregano’s Wood-Fired Pizza, 4546 El Camino Real, Los Altos (650) 941-3600 Sure, the pizzas are abundant, but don’t let a full menu page of them distract you. You will also find some gems of pasta dishes and at least a couple of mouth-watering salads. Pleasant decor, friendly and consistent service. Mini personal pizzas only. Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. 49:30 p.m. (Reviewed Sept. 5, 1997) Original Pancake House, 420 South San Antonio Road, Los Altos (650) 559-9197 Get breakfast all day -- at least until midafternoon. Pancakes and omelettes are the highlights here; fresh fruit waffles excel too. Family-friendly and crowded on weekend mornings. Mon.-Fri. 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 7 a.m.-3 p.m. (Reviewed Jan. 5, 2000)

Women’s Vocal Ensemble

Wintersongs Exquisite Harmonies from Eastern Europe 4pm • Sunday December 3, 2006 St. Mark’s Church 600 Colorado Ave. Palo Alto “A refreshing spin on traditional seasonal choral music…A thoroughly marvelous concert!” NPR T I C K E T S & I N F O R M AT I O N

www.brownpapertickets.com www.kitka.org • 510.444.0323 Page 18 • Friday, November 24, 2006 • Palo Alto Weekly


Movies

Movie reviews by Jeanne Aufmuth, Tyler Hanley and Susan Tavernetti OPENINGS regulars Fred Willard and Jane Lynch) perpetuating hot water-cooler gossip; and the slick-as-oil studio head (Ricky Gervais as Sunfish Classics President Martin Gibb). Despite a crack target comic and fluent performances by Guest’s crew, “Consideration” has a been-there-done-that quality, a tired air of familiarity and distinct lack of sparkle. Of course there are moments: the “Purim” theme sung around the holiday table; O’Hara’s mystifying Hollywood transformation; and Willard gaily interviewing actors who have been snubbed by, not nominated for, Oscar. The marvelous O’Hara rises above the pack, her hopeful anticipation so palpable it hurts. Guest is a gifted director with a devoted group of talent willing to take one for the team. He needs to move on. As Entertainment Tonight-ish hosts, Jane Lynch and Fred Willard fit right in with the rest of the cliches in “For Your Consideration.”

Rated: PG-13 for language and adult themes. 1 hour, 26 minutes. —Jeanne Aufmuth

Déjà Vu ✭✭✭

Bobby ✭✭

(Century 16, Century 12) Denzel Washington could make a Burger King commercial seem Oscar-worthy. The venerable leading man infuses this sci-fi thriller with humanity and realism, despite a plot that would befuddle even the creator of Star Trek. New Orleans, Fat Tuesday: A ferry filled with naval recruits and children on a field trip suddenly explodes, killing more than 500 people. Seasoned ATF agent Doug Carlin (Washington) quickly realizes the tragedy was a deliberate act, and federal officials struggle to find a suspect. Meanwhile, the charred body of a beautiful young woman (relative newcomer Paula Patton as Claire) washes up on the shore with clues that could help Carlin track down the killer. Carlin’s Sherlock Holmes-esque talents of observation endear him to FBI agent Andrew Pryzwarra (Val Kilmer), who invites Carlin to join his team of high-tech detectives. In a scene reminiscent of Steven Spielberg’s “Minority Report,” Pryzwarra unveils an elaborate network of satellite-powered cameras that can literally look back in time. But the window is brief (four-and-a-half days) and the scientific explanation so convoluted that even Carlin admits to being thoroughly confused. Once disbelief is adequately suspended, the action roars ahead. Carlin and company track Claire’s final days while desperately trying to identify the terrorist. And the big question inevitably arises: If it’s possible to look back in time, could Carlin perhaps travel back too and keep the ferry from ever exploding? Director Tony Scott (“Domino”) partners with producer Jerry Bruckheimer for this engaging thrill ride, and it’s hard to imagine a better action team. The picture is captivating, thanks to Washington’s superb performance and a suspenseful storyline. Although the title is merely a tool to coax inquisitive viewers, Washington will keep people in the seats even as they scratch their heads. “Déjà Vu” is the kind of pulse-pounding action flick that you need an astrophysics

degree to understand but only a pair of eyes to appreciate. Rated: PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and terror, disturbing images and some sensuality. 2 hours, 8 minutes. —Tyler Hanley

For Your Consideration ✭✭1/2

(Aquarius) Christopher Guest knows a good spoof when he sees one. Unfortunately he’s seeing them in every conceivable nook and cranny, and his shtick is getting stale. Ironically, Guest claims to be foregoing his flip mockumentary style in favor of a more linear narrative. You wouldn’t know it based on his troop’s overly familiar meanderings and character co-dependence. “Consideration” touches on a topic that’s rife with comic possibilities: the nauseating egos inherent in the film business. The project in question is a low-budget indie by the name of “Home for Purim,” an intimate drama about a Jewish family’s troublesome reunion at the celebration of their dying matriarch’s favorite holiday. The “Purim” players are fringe celebs, a motley crew of wannabes and used-to-bes desperate for a break. One little mention on an obscure movie blog is all it takes to start tongues wagging over a rumor that faded personality Marilyn Hack (Catherine O’Hara) may be crafting an Oscar-worthy performance. From bloggers’ lips to cinema gods’ ears. That tiny flame of thespian glory is fanned into a wildfire of publicity; suddenly everyone who is anyone is talking about “Purim.” The buzz stimulates budding expectation, sparking interest at the top. Naturally the brass smells big box office, with a few minor changes to broaden the film’s appeal. Goodbye Purim, hello Thanksgiving! Guest trots out the likely cliches with chaotic delight: the Ebert- and Roper-like film critics fiercely defending their cine-turfs; the Entertainment Tonight-ish hosts (Guest


(Century 16, Century 20) One of the iconic images of 1968 is U.S. Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, sprawled on the kitchen floor of the Ambassador Hotel after being gunned down by Sirhan Sirhan. The 42-year-old presidential hopeful had just delivered his victory speech for the California primary in the hotel’s ballroom. Revisiting the routine day leading up to the peace-and-justice politician’s assassination, screenwriter-director-actor Emilio Estevez doesn’t shadow Bobby Kennedy, the heir apparent of his older brother’s Camelot. Instead he focuses on the dozens of campaign supporters and hotel employees whose lives touched and exploded with a bang shortly after midnight on June 5 in Los Angeles. A cross between a Robert Altman ensemble piece like “Nashville” and the classic “Grand Hotel,” the star-studded drama moves at a fast clip. The Ambassador serves as the sole setting, where its employees (Anthony Hopkins, William H. Macy, Christian Slater, Sharon Stone, Heather Graham, Laurence Fishburne, Freddy Rodriquez, Jacob Vargas) interact with such Sixties-era stereotypes as the boozy, over-the-hill singer (Demi Moore), hippie drug dealer (Ashton Kutcher) and young peacenik (Lindsay Lohan) about to marry a draftee (Elijah Wood) so he will be shipped to Germany instead of Vietnam. But these characters and their lives really aren’t very interesting. Campaign workers banter about the newly released “Bonnie and Clyde” or “The Graduate” (also shot on location at the Ambassador). The kitchen staff gathers around a transistor radio to follow Don Drysdale pitching against Pittsburg. Put them in a towering inferno or on the sinking Titanic, and at least they’ll try to survive. Here they have no dramatic purpose until Bobby finally enters the building. Although period details ring false with so many well-known actors playing dress-up, editor Richard Chew expertly weaves historical footage into the narrative fiction. His opening montage condenses the turbulent

times into a rich tapestry of real-life protests, television news broadcasts, songs and speeches. RFK eloquently pleads for brotherhood in a nation divided by an unpopular war and racial and class injustices. Chew’s integration of archival footage with fictional reenactment brings the film to a powerful climax. The reel rendition fails to capture the reality of the times but conveys an earnest message against violence, as timely today as almost 40 years ago. Rated: R for language, drug content and a scene of violence. 1 hour. 51 minutes. — Susan Tavernetti

The Fountain 1/2 (Century 16, Century 12) Nothing works in Darren Aronofsky’s disappointing science-fiction fantasy. After a six-year absence from the big screen, the talented director of “Requiem for a Dream” takes a shallow, sophomoric stab at spiritual subject matter. Pretentious rather than profound, the movie plays like a repetitive loop forever delivering the same information. Alluding to Genesis and the biblical Tree of Life that offers immortality, Aronofsky’s script sets up three stories with the same actors, themes and visual look. Hugh Jackman takes on triple roles: a doctor conducting medical research with monkeys and Guatemalan tree bark in hopes of curing his wife’s (Rachel Weisz of “The Constant Gardener”) brain tumor; a Spanish conquistador searching for the Fountain of Youth at Queen Isabella’s (Weisz’s) bequest; and a Buddhist eating small chunks of the dying Tree of Life and floating through the cosmos in a bubble. It’s even sillier than it sounds. Unlike “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” this simplistic movie isn’t a narrative brain twister. The parallel stories line up in neat little visual and narrative rows. White stars twinkle in one segment, and white candles flicker in the next. The Jackman-Weisz married couple gazes at a dying, golden nebula in the modern tale, and Jackman-in-the-lotus position subsequently floats towards it. Phrases like “Death is the road to awe” and “Death frees every soul” are repeated over and over. Aronofsky may have tried to construct the cinematic equivalent of meditation, hoping to encourage a transformation of consciousness in the viewer. But enlightenment comes in the realization that this feature contains about 20 minutes of thematic and emotional sustenance. Even lenser Matthew Libatique’s (“Everything Is Illuminated”) pretty pictures grow tiring. You’ll pray that Weisz’s off-screen command will come true the first time she whispers, “Finish it. Finish it. Finish it.” Rated: PG-13 for some intense sequences of violent action, some sensuality and language. 1 hour, 36 minutes. — Susan Tavernetti To view the trailers for “Déjà Vu," "The Fountain," "For Your Consideration" and "Bobby" go to Palo Alto Online at http://www.PaloAltoOnline.com/

MOVIE TIMES Note: Screenings are for Friday through Tuesday only.

A Good Year (PG-13) ✭✭ Babel (R) ✭✭✭1/2 Bobby (R) ✭✭ Borat! (R) ✭✭✭1/2 Casino Royale (PG-13) ✭✭✭1/2 Deck the Halls (PG) (Not Reviewed) Déjà Vu (PG-13) ✭✭✭ The Departed (R) ✭✭✭1/2 Fast Food Nation (R) ✭✭✭1/2 Flags of Our Fathers (R) ✭✭✭ Flushed Away (PG) ✭✭✭ For Your Consideration (PG-13) ✭✭1/2 The Fountain (PG-13) 1/2 The Guardian (PG-13) ✭✭1/2 Happy Feet (PG) (Not Reviewed) Let’s Go to Prison (R) (Not Reviewed) Little Children (R) ✭✭✭✭ Little Miss Sunshine (R) ✭✭✭ The Prestige (PG-13) 1/2 The Queen (Not Rated) ✭✭✭✭

Century 16: 11:25 a.m. Century 20: 4:55 & 7:35 p.m. Century 16: 12:45, 4:05, 7:25 & 10:25 p.m.; Fri. also at 9:55 a.m. Century 20: 11:30 a.m.; 1, 2:30, 4:05, 5:35, 7:05, 8:35 & 10:10 p.m. Century 16: 11:05 a.m.; 1:50, 4:35, 7:20 & 10:05 p.m. Century 20: 11:50 a.m.; 2:20, 4:55, 7:30 & 10 p.m. Century 16: 11:40 a.m.; 1:45, 2:45, 3:45, 4:55, 5:55, 7, 8, 9:10 & 10:10 p.m.; Fri. also at 9:35 a.m. Century 20: 11:50 a.m.; 12:50, 1:55, 3, 4, 5:05, 6:15, 7:10, 8:20, 9:20 & 10:20 p.m. Century 16: 11 a.m.; 12:30, 2:20, 3:45, 5:40, 7:10, 9 & 10:30 p.m.; Fri. also at 9:15 a.m. Century 12: Noon, 12:50, 1:40, 2:30, 3:30, 4:20, 5:10, 6, 7, 7:50, 8:40, 9:30 & 10:30 p.m. Century 16: Noon, 2:30, 5:05, 7:30 & 9:55 p.m.; Fri. also at 9:40 a.m. Century 20: 11:35 a.m.; 12:20, 1:10, 2, 2:50, 3:45, 4:30, 5:25, 6:20, 7, 7:45, 8:40, 9:25 & 10:05 p.m. Century 16: 11 a.m.; 12:25, 1:55, 3:25, 4:50, 6:20, 7:45, 9:25 & 10:40 p.m.; Fri. also at 9:20 a.m. Century 12: 11:45 a.m.; 1:20, 2, 2:50, 4:30, 5:20, 5:55, 7:40, 8:15, 9 & 10:35 p.m. Century 16: 1 & 6:45 p.m.; Fri. also at 9:50 a.m. Century 12: 2:15 & 5:50 p.m. Century 20: 11:30 a.m.; 2:15 & 10:15 p.m. CinéArts at Palo Alto Square: 2:15, 4:50, 7:40 & 10:20 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. also at 11:40 a.m. Century 20: 11:40 a.m. & 8:25 p.m. Century 16: 11:30 a.m.; 1:35, 3:40, 5:45 & 7:50 p.m.; Fri. also at 9:20 a.m. Century 12: 12:05, 2:20, 4:50, 7:20 & 9:40 p.m. Century 20: 11:45 a.m.; 1:50, 4:10, 6:15, 8:20 & 10:25 p.m. Aquarius: 1, 3:45, 4:45, 6:05, 7:05, 8:10 & 10:15 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. also at noon. Century 16: 11:50 a.m.; 2:40, 5:15, 7:40 & 10:15 p.m.; Fri. also at 9:25 a.m. Century 12: 12:20, 1:50, 2:40, 4:40, 5:30, 7:10, 8, 9:50 & 10:25 p.m. Century 20: 11:25 a.m.; 2:20 & 5:15 p.m. Century 16: 11:15 a.m.; 12:40, 2, 3:20, 4:40, 6, 7:15, 8:45 & 9:50 p.m.; Fri. also at 9:30 a.m. Century 20: 11:20 a.m.; noon, 12:40, 1:20, 1:55, 2:45, 3:15, 3:55, 4:35, 5:15, 5:55, 6:40, 7:25, 8, 8:30, 9:10, 9:55 & 10:25 p.m. Century 16: 10 p.m. Century 12: 11:55 a.m. & 9:20 p.m.

Guild: 1:20, 4:10, 7 & 9:50 p.m. Aquarius: 2:15 & 9:20 p.m. Century 16: 4 & 9:45 p.m. Century 20: 2:40 & 5:30 p.m. Century 20: 12:15, 2:35, 4:50, 7:15 & 9:35 p.m. CinéArts at Palo Alto Square: 2, 4:30, 7 & 9:30 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. also at 11:30 a.m. The Santa Clause 3: The Century 20: 11:35 a.m.; 2, 4:25, 6:50 & 9:05 p.m. Escape Clause (G) (Not Reviewed) Saw III (R) (Not Reviewed) Century 20: 8:10 & 10:30 p.m. Stranger Than Fiction Century 16: 11:20 a.m.; 2:25, 5, 7:35 & 10:20 p.m. Century 20: 11:55 a.m.; 1:15, 2:25, 3:50, 5, 6:25, (PG-13) ✭✭ 7:50, 9 & 10:20 p.m. Tenacious D: The Pick of Century 16: 12:15, 2:50, 5:20, 7:55 & 10:35 p.m.; Fri. also at 9:45 a.m. Century 12: 12:10, 2:45, Destiny (R) (Not Reviewed) 5:15, 7:45 & 10:20 p.m.

“Destined

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JACK BLACK • KYLE GASS

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★ Skip it ★★ Some redeeming qualities ★★★ A good bet ★★★★ Outstanding Aquarius: 430 Emerson St., Palo Alto (266-9260) Century Cinema 16: 1500 N. Shoreline Blvd., Mountain View (960-0970) Century Park 12: 557 E. Bayshore Blvd., Redwood City (365-9000 Century 20 Downtown: 825 Middlefield Road, Redwood City (369-3456)

CinéArts at Palo Alto Square: 3000 El Camino Real, Palo Alto (493-3456) Stanford: 221 University Ave., Palo Alto (324-3700) Internet address: For show times, plot synopses, trailers and more information about films playing, go to Palo Alto Online at http://www.PaloAltoOnline.com/

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NOW PLAYING A Good Year ✭✭ (Century 16, Century 12) Max Skinner (Russell Crowe), a golden-boy financier, exists on a high of buy and sell. Then a bit of his ancient history rears its ugly head. A long-lost uncle (Albert Finney as Henry) has left a crumbling French chateau and its vineyards to his absentee nephew. Max wants to unload the place for maximum dollars despite the pleadings of the chateau’s Vigneron (Didier Bourdon). Enter the surprise American daughter (Abbie Cornish) who could spoil the sale, and you’ve got yourself a twisty little vino-soaked comedy. Or at least the makings of one. To quote “Sideways”: quaffable but far from transcendent. Rated: PG-13 for language and some sexual content. 1 hour, 58 minutes. — J.A. (Reviewed Nov. 10, 2006) Babel ✭✭✭1/2 (Century 16, Century 20) On a Moroccan mountain, a young goat herder mindlessly fires his father’s rifle at a tour bus. The bullet hits an American passenger (Cate Blanchett), whose husband (Brad Pitt) exhibits a mix of fear and entitlement. In San Diego, the couple’s Mexican nanny (Adriana Barraza) learns they won’t return in time for her to attend her son’s wedding across the border. She decides to take the couple’s two children with her, but the trip is complicated by her

gun-toting nephew (Gael Garcia Bernal). Meanwhile, a deaf Japanese teen (Rinko Kikuchi), desperate for love, wanders through Tokyo. Her widowed father (Koji Yakusho) is the former owner of the gun that started the chain of events. Director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu criticizes the way of the gun and the clash of cultures in a world where bad things happen to good people. Rated: R for violence, some graphic nudity, sexual content, language and some drug use. In English and French, Spanish, Japanese, Berber, Arabic and Japanese sign language with English subtitles. 2 hours, 22 minutes. — S.T. (Reviewed Nov. 10, 2006) Borat! ✭✭✭1/2 (Century 16, Century 20) Batten down the hatches and hide the children because Borat is coming to town. That’s Borat Sagdiyev, a sex-crazed, single-monikered, obscenity-spouting Kazakhstani reporter for a state-owned TV network who’s crossing the U.S. of A. in search of the pulse of mainstream America. As Borat (comedian Sacha Baron Cohen) zigzags across the country, he interviews unsuspecting Americans eager to help a foreigner in need. No one is immune to Borat’s antics thinly masquerading as “charming” misunderstandings. Throughout the film, Borat’s humor is scatological, anti-Semitic, sexist and offensive. But it’s damn funny most of the time. Credit

Baron Cohen with the guts to go out on a comic limb with this fish-out-of-water tale and wacky mockumentarial adventure that’s destined to become a cult classic. Rated: R for obscenities and nudity. 1 hour, 22 minutes. — J.A. (Reviewed Nov. 3, 2006) Casino Royale ✭✭✭1/2 (Century 16, Century 12) The verdict is in: The deliciously brooding Daniel Craig is an edgy and eclectic James Bond. This go-around, James tackles the money man for the world’s most notorious terrorists. Le Chiffre (Mads Mikkelsen) is a criminal mastermind with an unquenchable thirst for hard currency. A series of explosive events lead Bond and the creepy Le Chiffre to face off in a highrollers poker showdown at the luxurious Casino Royale in Montenegro. Aiding Bond in his quest to vanquish evil is British treasury agent Vesper Lynd (Eva Green), a brainy beauty who will shape Bond’s heart and his future with calculated charm. From Africa to Prague to the Bahamas, the beat is positively heartpounding. “Casino” is pure testosterone pleasure. Rated: PG-13 for violent action, torture and some nudity. 2 hours, 24 minutes. — J.A. (Reviewed Nov. 17, 2006) The Departed ✭✭✭1/2


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Movies (continued from previous page) (Century 16, Century 12) Director Martin Scorsese’s latest masterpiece defies the crime-fiction genre. Wily Irish mobster Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson) is wanted man number one for the Boston State police. The gangster stays one step ahead of the men in blue thanks to Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon), a mole in the department. On the other side of the spectrum is undercover cop Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio), a hot-tempered young officer who infiltrates Costello’s crew. Sullivan and Costigan quickly find themselves in a cat-and-mouse game to try and unmask the other. With the help of slick writing, an A-list cast and twisted surprises, Scorsese scores again. Rated:

Patricia Arquette FAST FOOD NATION (R) Fri. Mon. & Tue. 2:15-4:50-7:40-10:20 Sat. & Sun. 11:40-2:15-4:50-7:40-10:20 Helen Mirren THE QUEEN (PG–13) Fri. Mon. & Tue. 2-4:30-7-9:30 Sat. & Sun. 11:30-2-4:30-7-9:30 Times Valid For Friday, 11/24 thru Tuesday,11/28 Only

© 2006

R for strong brutal violence, pervasive language, some strong sexual content and drug material. 2 hours, 29 minutes. — T.H. (Reviewed Oct. 6, 2006) Fast Food Nation ✭✭✭1/2 (Century 16, Century 12) This expose into the All-American burger is a thought-provoking cinematic meal. Director Richard Linklater masterfully opens the film with a family enjoying a bite at the local fastfood eatery. The father lifts the bun of his burger and the camera pans down into the patty. It’s time to learn what else we bring to the table with that hunk of meat. Cut to Mexican couple Raul (Wilmer Valderrama) and Sylvia (Catalina Sandino Moreno) as they illegally cross into the United States where Raul is ushered to work at a meat-processing plant. Across the country, executive Don Henderson (Greg Kinnear) is reveling in the success of “The Big One,” Mickey’s latest marketing masterpiece. But there’s a problem with the popular burger and Don is sent to uncover the source. The disturbing climax — filmed at an actual slaughterhouse — may make the picture hard to swallow, but the importance is undeniable. Rated: R for disturbing images, strong sexuality, language and drug content. 1 hour, 46 minutes. — T.H. (Reviewed Nov. 17, 2006) Flags of Our Fathers ✭✭✭ (Century 16, Century 12) In the midst of

“DARING AND MOVING FILMMAKING.

A MUST–SEE FOR PEOPLE WHO CARE ABOUT ADVENTUROUS CINEMA.” – Peter Herbst, PREMIERE MAGAZINE

“THE BEST FILM OF 2006.” “A VISUAL MASTERPIECE THAT WILL AWE AND INSPIRE YOU.”

“ONE OF THE MOST VISUALLY ORIGINAL AND EMOTIONALLY COMPLEX SCIENCEFICTION FILMS IN HISTORY.”

– Mel Caylo, WIZARD MAGAZINE

– Steve Silberman, WIRED MAGAZINE

– Devin Faraci, CHUD.COM

the United States’ clash with Japan on Iwo Jima during World War II, six soldiers were photographed planting an American flag atop Mount Suribachi. The men form the foundation of Clint Eastwood’s most ambitious film to date. The three soldiers who survived — John “Doc” Bradley (Ryan Phillippe), Rene Gagnon (Jesse Bradford) and Ira Hayes (Adam Beach) — were treated like celebrities for contributing to an image that helped fuel American hope. The picture bounces around, failing to find a cohesive structure. But Eastwood does an amazing job portraying the time period. A valuable snapshot of history, but this flag won’t be raised in Oscar season. Rated: R for sequences of graphic war violence and carnage, and for language. 2 hours, 29 minutes. — T.H. (Reviewed Oct. 20, 2006) Flushed Away ✭✭✭ (Century 16, Century 12) Mice have long sat atop the animation throne. The latest rodent to squeak across the screen is a sheltered British mouse named Roddy (voiced by Hugh Jackman). Roddy is a pampered pet, but loneliness has forced him to befriend plastic action figures. Roddy’s life goes topsy-turvy when a surly rat flushes Roddy down the toilet, where he winds up in the sewer city of Ratropolis. A meeting with a passionate rodent (Kate Winslet as Rita) lands Roddy in conflict with Toad (Sir Ian McKellen), a pompous Ratropolis mobster. Roddy and Rita quickly find themselves hunted by Toad’s gang of inept thugs as they endeavor to get Roddy home. This collaboration between DreamWorks Anima-

tion (“Shrek”) and Aardman Features (“Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit”) is one of the most outright enjoyable films of the year. Rated: PG for crude humor and some language. 1 hour, 25 minutes. — T.H. (Reviewed Nov. 3, 2006) Gridiron Gang ✭✭✭ (Century 20) The Rock no longer exists. Wrestling legend Dwayne Johnson has earned the right to go by his real name. Johnson often brings a sympathetic humanity to his roles, which is evident in his portrayal of real-life probation officer and football coach Sean Porter. Based on a true story, “Gridiron Gang” follows Porter and his colleague Malcolm Moore (Xzibit of “Pimp My Ride” fame) as they launch a football program at a juvenile detention facility. The residents come mostly from the violent gang life of East L.A. Willie Weathers (Jade Yorker) saw his cousin murdered in front of him. Shocked with grief, Willie lands in the camp after killing his abusive stepfather in a moment of rage. Coach Porter and the fledgling football program may be Willie’s only chance at a better life. Rated: PG-13 for startling scenes of violence, mature thematic material and language. 2 hours. — T.H. (Reviewed Sept. 15, 2006) The Guardian ✭✭1/2 (Century 20) Kevin Costner turns in a fine performance in this passable action film that treads the salty waters of the United States Coast Guard. Costner is Senior Chief Ben Randall, the most decorated swimmer in the history of the USCG.

★★★★ HILARIOUS! ” “

“

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“A HIGH-OCTANE-ACTION SUSPENSE THRILLER!” PETE PETE HAMMOND, HAMMOND, MAXIM MAXIM

“AN EDGE-OF-YOUR-SEAT THRILL RIDE.” GUY FARRIS, ABC-TV/SACRAMENTO GUY FARRIS, ABC-TV/SACRAMENTO

“‘DÉJÀ VU’ IS EXCITING, THRILLING AND FULL OF SURPRISES!” BRYAN ERDY, NBC-TV/COLUMBUS BRYAN ERDY, NBC-TV/COLUMBUS

Little Children ✭✭✭✭ (Guild) Todd Field’s adaptation of Tom Perrotta’s novel of dubious adult behavior is a dark and delicious treat. “Children” opens with the picture of innocence as toddlers navigate the local playground under the eyes of their pretty suburban mothers. But the women are snide gossip-mongers. Enter Brad Adamson (Patrick Wilson), dubbed “The Prom King,” a married Mr. Mom whose devotion to his own little guy is exceeded only by his studly good looks and his puzzling background. Free-spirited mom Sarah Pierce (Kate Winslet) gets to the bottom of Brad’s daily appearance at the park by striking up a conversation. A tiny spark becomes an inferno of love and lust. “Children” reads like a contemporary fantasy, an adulterous reality with darkly curling comic edges. Original, challenging and resonant. Rated: R for language, nudity and sexual situations. 2 hours, 17 minutes. — J.A. (Reviewed Nov. 17, 2006)

”

- Thelma Adams, US Weekly

- Leah Rozen, People

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When an at-sea rescue goes awry, Ben gets cold feet and accepts a position training the next wave of top guns in the Guard’s A-school. Among the plebes is idealistic candidate Jake Fischer (Ashton Kutcher), a state swim champ with more attitude than brains. The two are oil and water from the get-go. Not surprisingly the pair ultimately team up on a dangerous rescue mission. Although “Guardian” follows an all-too familiar pattern, the energetic performances breathe life into the genre. Rated: PG-13 for language and adult themes. 2 hours, 16 minutes. — J.A. (Reviewed Sept. 29, 2006)

Little Miss Sunshine ✭✭✭ (Aquarius, Century 20) The Little Miss in question is sunny 7-year-old beauty pageant hopeful Olive Hoover (Abigail Breslin), whose grandpa (Alan Arkin) is coaching her in a flashy talent number. Dad Richard (Greg Kinnear) struggles to get his motivational speaking career off the ground. Mom Sheryl (Toni Collette) flutters over an eccentric brood that also includes Sheryl’s brother Frank (Steve Carell), fresh from a suicide attempt over the loss of his gay lover. All systems are go when Olive nabs a spot in the penultimate Little Miss Sunshine competition. The gang is packed into a VW van in Albuquerque, headed for Redondo Beach, California. The ensemble acting is firstrate, every player coming through with vibrant characterizations. Rated: R for language and sexual content. 1 hour, 41 minutes. — J.A. (Reviewed Aug. 4, 2006)

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Man of the Year ✭✭✭ (Century 20) Robin Williams and director Barry Levinson evoke memories of their 1987 collaboration “Good Morning, Vietnam” with this insightful political dram-

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‘‘SSS ...A Contemporary Masterpiece.” Shawn Edwards, FOX-TV

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Movies Rated: PG for violence and disturbing images. 2 hours, 15 minutes. — S.T. (Reviewed Oct. 20, 2006)

STANFORD THEATRE The Stanford Theatre is at 221 University Ave. in Palo Alto. Screenings are for Friday through Sunday. The theatre is closed on Monday and Tuesday. Go to www.stanfordtheatre.org.

Margie (1946) A nostalgic story of a 1920s high school girl (Jeanne Crain). Fri. at 7:30 p.m. Pinky (1949) A light-skinned African-American girl (Jeanne Crain) returns home from nursing school in the North, where she has been passing for white. Life in the South as a black woman is a bleak contrast. Fri. at 5:35 & 9:15 p.m.

The Queen ✭✭✭✭ (CineArts, Century 20) Helen Mirren is perfection as Queen Elizabeth, the contemporary royal for whom a stiff upper lip is the order of the day. That credo is put to the test when Princess Diana is killed in a car crash. Newly elected British Prime Minister Tony Blair (Michael Sheen) is anxious to spit-polish his image with a face of public concern yet clashes with the ritual-bound world of his Queen. What ensues is a captivating fictional account of real events that transpired in August of 1997. Mirren deserves every year-end award available for her portrayal of a reigning royal caught between the crosshairs, forced by a country in mourning to put protocol aside. Rated: PG-13 for language and adult situations. 1 hour, 43 minutes. — J.A. (Reviewed Oct. 13, 2006)

Love is a Many-Splendored Thing (1955) A war correspondent (William Holden) covering the Korean war falls in love with a Eurasian doctor (Jennifer Jones). Sat. & Sun. at 3:55 & 7:30 p.m. I’ll Never Forget You (1951) A scientist is transported back to the 18th century, where he falls in love with a young woman. Sat. & Sun. at 5:50 & 9:25 p.m. edy. Tom Dobbs (Williams) is a political talk-show host with views along the lines of Jon Stewart or Bill Maher. Late during one of Dobbs’ comedic tirades, a fan suggests that Dobbs make a run for the presidency. Dobbs soon finds himself on the campaign trail along with his manager (Christopher Walken) and speech writer (Lewis Black). It couldn’t happen in a better year. A software company called Delacroy installs stateof-the-art voting systems across the nation — but there’s a glitch in the technology, discovered by Delacroy employee Eleanor Green (Laura Linney). When the company covers up its mistake and Dobbs illegitimately wins the election, Eleanor finds only one person willing to believe her: Dobbs himself. Rated: PG-13 for language including some crude sexual reference, drug related material, and brief violence. 1 hour, 56 minutes. — T.H. (Reviewed Oct. 13, 2006) The Prestige 1/2 (Century 16, Century 12) As described by illusion designer Cutter (Michael Caine), the third act of a great magic trick “is the part with the twists and turns, where...you see something shocking you’ve never seen before.” It’s the payoff that never materializes in this disappointing movie. Granted, successfully adapting Christopher Priest’s novel would have required a magic wand. The 1995 story of two Victorianera magicians consists of first-person diary entries. In “The Prestige,” voiceover narration here and there fails to reveal the innermost thoughts of arch enemies Alfred “Le Professeur” Borden (Christian Bale) and Robert “The Great Danton” Angier (Hugh Jackman) that lie at the heart of the tale. The film shows instead of tells, presenting events that make no sense without an explanation.

NEED A TAX DEDUCTION?

Stranger Than Fiction ✭✭ (Century 16, Century 20) Director Marc Forster (“Finding Neverland”) takes an intriguing premise and goes virtually nowhere with it, despite the best efforts of Will Ferrell and Emma Thompson. What would life be like if you could hear a narrator chronicling your every move? That’s the problem plaguing IRS agent Harold Crick (Ferrell) who suddenly hears a voice dictating his day. Ultimately the voice, belonging to a novelist (Thompson as Karen Eiffel) who’s struggling with the ending of her book, lets slip that she’s looking for a way to script Crick’s demise. That’s all the incentive Crick needs to make changes — and how. There’s a kernel of a good idea here. But writer Zach Helm, channeling his best Charlie Kaufman, loses his way in an implosion of incongruent themes. Rated: PG-13 for brief language and nudity. 1 hour, 45 minutes. — J.A. (Reviewed Nov. 10, 2006)

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“THE ‘MUST-SEE’ MOVIE

Peter Travers, ROLLING STONE

– ONE OF THE MOST WONDERFUL IN YEARS. A MIRACLE OF ORIGINALITY AND IMAGINATION.”

“...A RADICAL – AND WELCOME – REINVENTION.”

Gene Shalit, TODAY

David Ansen, NEWSWEEK

“‘HAPPY FEET’ SHOULD WIN THE ACADEMY AWARD FOR BEST ANIMATED PICTURE.

★★★★

“

®

”

Terry Lawson, DETROIT FREE PRESS

IT’S THE MOST AMBITIOUS MOVIE I’VE SEEN IN YEARS.”

“TWO THUMBS UP.”

Stephen Schaefer, BOSTON HERALD

®

“ADULTS AND KIDS ALIKE WILL BE DANCING IN THE AISLES.” Dan Jewel, LIFE & STYLE WEEKLY

Richard Roeper and A.O. Scott Guest Critic EBERT & ROEPER

ALBERT R. BROCCOLI’S EON PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS DANIEL CRAIG AS IAN FLEMING’S JAMES BOND

IN

TM

ALBERT R. BROCCOLI’S EON PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS DANIEL CRAIG MUSIC AS IAN FLEMING’S JAMES BOND IN “CASINO ROYALE” EVA GREEN WRIGHT AND JUDI DENCH AS “M” BY DAVID ARNOLD SCREENPLAY BY NEAL PURVIS & ROBERT WADE AND PAUL HAGGIS MADS MIKKELSEN WITH JEFFREYPRODUCED DIRECTED BY MARTIN CAMPBELL BY MICHAEL G. WILSON AND BARBARA BROCCOLI FEATURING “YOU KNOW MY NAME” PERFORMED BY CHRIS CORNELL

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Sorry, No Passes Accepted For This Engagement. For Additional Information, Call Theaters Or Check Directory.

Give Your Car to ...help create a future for people with developmental disabilities

Community Association for Rehabilitation, Inc. 525 East Charleston Road, Palo Alto, CA 94306 • www.c-a-r.org

Call: 650-494-0550

United Way

Century Theatres Century Theatres Century Theatres CENTURY 20 DOWNTOWN CENTURY 12 DOWNTOWN CENTURY PLAZA 10 Redwood City 650/369-3456 San Mateo 650/558-0123 So San Francisco 650/742-9200 CHECK THEATRE DIRECTORY OR CALL FOR SOUND INFORMATION AND SHOWTIMES



Goings On

The best of what’s happening on the Midpeninsula Art Galleries

OF NOTE

Peter Cieply

Dinner with friends The cast of “Keep the Yuletide Gay” take on a new play by Dale Albright starting Nov. 30 at the Dragon Theatre at 535 Alma St. in Palo Alto. Presented by Theatre Q, which looks at the changing images of Bay Area gays and lesbians, the comedy tells the story of five friends gathering for their annual Christmas dinner. Pictured are, from left: Chloe Bronzan, Sarah Elizabeth Janzen, Carlye Pollack, Alan Kaiser, Connie Nelson, Safiya Arnaout and Caleb Hoffert. The play runs through Dec. 30. Tickets are $10-$25. Call 510-439-2456 or go to www.theatreq.org.

“Merry Art at Main” Holiday show features contemporary art and fine crafts by 23 artists. Through Dec. 23; reception Sun., Dec. 3, 4-7 p.m. Holiday hours: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; closed Thanksgiving. The Main Gallery, 1018 Main St., Redwood City. www.themaingallery.org “Serigraphs and Drawings” Presented by artist Susan Trubow. Landscapes of the Mendocino coast. Thu.-Sun., through Dec. 31. Free. 1870 Art Center Gallery, 1870 Ralston Ave., Belmont. Call 2611086. www.1870artcenter.org “Winter Salon” 30 artists present contemporary art and fine crafts for Holiday shopping. Wall art, jewelry, sculpture and ceramics created by local artists. Through Dec. 24; opening reception Thu., Nov. 30, 5-8 p.m. Gallery 9 Hours: Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Gallery 9, 143 Main St., Los Altos. www.gallery9losaltos.com A Painted Life Paintings of the human body, using a minimalist palette and restrained wide, heavy brush stokes. Through Nov. 29. Art12 Gallery, 539 Alma St., Palo Alto. Call 566-1381. www. art21.us Allegro Gallery California landscapes by Ed Lucey through Nov. 30. Hours: Mon.Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Allegro Gallery, 3130 Alpine Road, Portola Valley. Call 8514300. www.allegroframing.com Art 21 Bruni, known for painting jazz and folk singers, including Bay Area natives Dave Brubeck, John Lee Hooker and Jerry Garcia. On display Dec. 1-31; Dec. 1: live music and refreshments part of 1st

Fridays. Hours: Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Art21 Gallery, 3145 Alma St., Palo Alto. Call 566-1381. www.art21.us By Scale Rules Three works in progress. Black and white photographs by Alejandra Chaverri, including 2006 Presidential Elections in Costa Rica, the creative process on an acrobat and the craft of making a violin by our local violin maker, Larry Haussler. Through Nov. 30, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Keeble and Schuate Photography Gallery, 290 California Ave., Palo Alto. Call 327-8996. www.achaverri.com Contemporary British Art Nine British artists in an ongoing exhibition through Dec. 31. Hours: Tue.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. and by appointment. Free. Chelsea Art Gallery, 440 Kipling St., Palo Alto. Call 324-4450. www.chel seaartgallery.com Follow The Sun Paintings from Southern France and Spain by Carol Mead. Through Dec. 2, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Viewpoints Gallery, 315 State St., Los Altos. www.viewpointsgalery.com Jock Sturges “In Color” Recent color photographs by photographer Jock Sturges. Through Nov. 26, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Stellar Somerset Gallery, 539 Bryant St., Palo Alto. www.stellarsomer setgallery.com Painted Photographs by Brigitte Carnochan Through Dec. 31, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Bella Figura: Painted Photographs by Brigitte Carnochan. Hand-painted gelatin silver prints of still-life’s and nudes. Modernbook Gallery, 494 University Ave., Palo Alto. www.modernbook.com/carnochan. htm

Tercera Art Gallery Palo Alto Featuring new sketches in watercolor, litho crayon and charcoal by Jamie Chase; new postindustrial ceramics by Kevin Waller; and new wood sculptures by Robyn Horn. Tue.-Sat., through Nov. 25, 10:30 a.m.5:30 p.m. Free. Tercera Gallery, 534 Ramona St., Palo Alto. Call 322-5324. www. terceragallerypaloalto.com

Auditions Peninsula Pops Orchestra Openings For advanced players of all instruments. Rehearsals Tuesdays, through Dec. 31, 710 p.m. Call for appointment. Gunn High School, 780 Arastradero Road, room M1, Palo Alto. Call 856-8432. www.peninsu lapops.org

Benefits St. Joseph Church Jewelry Sale Sun., Nov. 26, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the maintenance and construction needs of the pipe organ. St. Joseph Church, 582 Hope St., Mountain View. The Drive for a New Bloodmobile Nov. 30, 6-10 p.m. A benefit gala to raise funds to replace the 14 year old Stanford Blood Center Bloodmobile. Tickets include reception, full bar, dinner, entertainment, auction and more. $200 per person/$150 tax deductible. Garden Court Hotel, 520 Cowper St., Palo Alto. Call 723-6795. [email protected]

Classes/Workshops Estate Planning Wed., Nov. 29 “Five Wishes.” 11 a.m.-noon Free. Little House, 800 Middle Ave., Menlo Park. Call 3262025. www.peninsulavolunteers.org

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Goings On Feldenkrais Mind-body exercises for movement improvement. Fridays, 11 a.m.-noon. On-going class. All ages welcome. $12/$10 per class. Little House, 800 Middle Ave., Menlo Park. Call 3279419. www.umovebetter.com Fighting Faiths: The Crusades The causes and historic impact on medieval Europe of the 11th-12th centuries Crusades to liberate the Holy Land. Mondays, Nov. 27-Dec. 18, 10 a.m.-noon $76 members/$87 non-members. Little House, 800 Middle Ave., Menlo Park. Call 326-2025. www.peninsulavolunteers.org

Sundays, through Jan. 28, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Museum of American Heritage, 351 Homer Ave., Palo Alto. Call 321-1004. www.moah.org “Rail Gardeners Run Trains” FridaysSundays, through Dec. 10, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The Bay Area Garden Railway society will present a double track garden gauge layout. Museum of American Heritage, 351

Homer Ave., Palo Alto. Call 321-1004. www.moah.org “Sliding Scale” By Gail Wight. Objects of scientific research and the larger field of science in a new light. Through Dec. 10. Hours: Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat.Sun., 1-5 p.m. Free. Thomas Welton Stanford Art Gallery, 419 Laseun Mall,

Stanford. Call 723-3404. art.stanford. edu Art for Life presents Shadows and Fog Art for Life, a quarterly exhibition celebrating the gift of life blood donors provide others in our community. Through Jan. 2. Shadows and Fog, done by a community of San Francisco Bay Area artists. Stanford Blood Center, 3373 Hillview Ave.,

Palo Alto. Call 723-8270. http://blood center.stanford.edu Art in Action Library Show Art in Action opens a 6-month long art show series featuring artwork from local students grades K-8. Through May 5. For a list of participating schools see website. Free.


Clubs/Meetings American Association of University Women Meetings A network of women and men and an organization for over 75 years. Women and men with college and associate degrees welcome. Meetings held 3rd Saturdays or 3rd Thursdays. Free. Location vary, Palo Alto. Call 9680443. www.aauw-paloalto.org Monday Night Out A Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender group with supporters and friends. Discussion, social events, education and spiritual development. Second Monday, monthly, 7 p.m. Unity Palo Alto Community, 3391 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Call 966-8290.

See what happens when you dress up a little?

Community Events Getting Ready for Christmas Decorate cookies, write Christmas cards for shutins and prepare small gifts for Christmas Eve visitors. Wed., Nov. 29, 6 p.m. potluck supper; activities follow. Childcare available. Free. First United Methodist Church of Palo Alto, 625 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto. Call 323-6167. www.firstpaloalto.com

Concerts Thanksgiving Weekend Quartet Concert Nov. 26, 2 p.m. The Rossmoyne Quartet will perform the Haydn “Fifths” Quartet; Beethoven’s “Holy Song of Thanksgiving”; Dvorak Quartet No. 14. Free admission, donations accepted. Kol Emeth Main Sanctuary, 4175 Manuela Ave., Palo Alto. Call 941-6887. University Singers Robert Huw Morgan, director Nov. 29, 8 p.m. Features Morten Lauridsen’s Lux Eterna along with other choral works. $10/$5. Memorial Church, 450 Serra Mall, Stanford. Call 723-2720. http://music.stanford.edu

brocade cocktail skirt $295 worn over

silk cocktail dress $225

Dance Ballroom Dancing Salsa will be taught Fri., Nov. 24, 8 p.m. Lessons for beginning and intermediate levels, no experience or partner necessary. General dance party 9 p.m.-midnight. Singles and couples welcome. Free refreshments. Casual attire. $7. Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Call 856-9930. www.readybyte.com/friday nightdance Congolese Dance Classes With Congolese Master of Dance Regine N’Dounda. Dance to live drums by Master Drummers Massengo Constant, Matingou Tintina and Kiazi Malonga. All Levels welcome. Sundays, through Dec. 17, 3:30-5 p.m. $12 drop-in. Cubberley Community Center, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto. Call (510) 754-3197. www.congorhythms.org Live Music Contra Potluck Dance Caller: Eric Black, Band: Whirlin’ Merlin. Bring leftover Thanksgiving desserts to share. Nov. 25, beginners class 7:30 p.m. $10/ members $8/low income $2 off/students $5. 1st United Methodist Church of Palo Alto, 625 Hamilton, Palo Alto. Call 9659169. www.bacds.org

VIAN HUNTER HOLIDAY HOURS Sun - Sat 10am - 7pm 520 Bryant St (at University)

Palo Alto (650) 327-1780 www.vianhunter.com

Environment “How Did These Mountains Get Here?” Lead by docents Dave and Judy Boore. Strenuous 5-6 mile hike through a diverse preserve. View Santa Cruz Mountains. Nov. 26, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. Monte Bello Open Space Preserve. www.openspace. org

Exhibits “7 Photographers” Charles Anselmo, William Bishop, Alejandra Chaverri, Kathryn Dunlevie, Barbara Kossy, Maurice Stevens and Marianne Thomas display pictures Mon.-Fri., through Nov. 30, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Stanford Art Spaces, 420 Via Palou, Stanford. Call 725-3622. http://cis. stanford.edu/~marigros “Classic and Timeless Toys” Palo Alto Sport Shop and Toy world and the Museum of American Heritage present “Classic and Timeless Toys,” an exhibit featuring over 75 classic toys of the 20th century. Learn the history of toys and the story behind their inventions. Fridays-

designed and made locally fashionably classic accessories, dresses and separates with a modern fit, in modern fabrics


Goings On (continued from previous page)

A Guide to the Spiritual Community Los Altos Lutheran Church

Grace Lutheran Church

ELCA

Pastor David K. Bonde

-ELCA3149 Waverly St., Palo Alto 650-494-1212 8:00 AM - Worship Service 10:30 AM - Worship Service

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH UCC 1985 Louis Road, Palo Alto • (650) 856-6662 www.fccpa.org

Sunday Worship and Church School at 10:00am

This week: What is Truth? David Howell preaching

Child Care Available

650-948-3012

Pastor Matt Smuts

460 S. El Monte Ave., Los Altos

www.losaltoslutheran.org

Sunday Mornings for Spiritual Health Meditation 9:15-9:45am Service 10-11am Non-denominational and Inclusive Spirituality. Thursdays 7-8pm Meditation & Self-Development Pathways to Self Healing 4153A El Camino Way Palo Alto (650) 424-1118 www.psh.org

To include your Church in

Inspirations Please call

Blanca Yoc at 650-326-8210 ext. 221 or e-mail [email protected]

AL T

LO

O •

T

U RCH

H

ADV E N

“A small Church with a big HEART” Worship celebration 11:00 Sunday Sunday School and Bible Study 9:30 Sound Biblical Teaching, Drama, Music, Retreats Children’s Ministry, Home of New Beginnings Preschool (650) 323 8544 1100 Middle Ave@Arbor (near Safeway) www.firstbaptist.com

PA

First Baptist Church Of Menlo Park

•

’

God Is Still Speaking

Outreach Pastor Gary Berkland 9:00 am Worship 10:30 am Education Nursery Care Provided Alpha Courses

I S T

C

The Thomas Merton Center of Palo Alto

Stanford Memorial Church

Encouraging spiritual development through education, spiritual practice and social action.

University Public Worship All are welcome

Celebrate Catholic liturgy with a progressive, lay-led community every Sunday at 8:45 a.m.

Sunday, November 26, 10:00 a.m. “Grace and Gratitude”

St. Thomas Aquinas Roman Catholic Church, 751 Waverley Street (at Homer), Palo Alto

http://www.thomasmerton.org

First Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto

All are welcome. Information: 650-723-1762

Rabbi Patricia Karlin-Neumann Senior Associate Dean for Religious Life Music featuring University Organist Robert Huw Morgan http://religiouslife.stanford.edu

(PCUSA)

Are you seeking a spiritual home, a place of welcome

and acceptance? Are you wanting theological study where you are free to ask honest questions? Are you looking for a community of faith where you can be empowered to work for justice, peace and the common good of all? Come check us out! Maybe you will find the connections and commitments you believe Christ’s church should embrace and embody.

8:30 A.M. - Worship in the round 9:30 A.M. - Children & Adult Education 11:00 A.M. - Worship Childcare provided at all services 1140 Cowper Street 650-325-5659 www.fprespa.org


Art in Action, 3925 Bohannon Dr., Menlo Park. Call 566-8339. www.artinaction. org Chasing History: Art and Provenance Exhibition highlights the research conducted on several paintings and the results of the investigation. Wed.-Sun., through Nov. 26, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Cantor Arts Center, Museum Way and Lomita Dr., Palo Alto. museum.stanford. edu Cubberley Studio Artists Exhibit Eight artists from the Cubberley Studios will exhibit works in painting, photography, and mixed media Mon.-Sat., through Nov. 30, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. Civic Center Lobby, 250 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto. www.cub berelystudios.com Juliet Lundy’s Art Show Juliet Lundy is a juried oil painter who studied locally and overseas with a focus on Plein Air and Still Life. Currently displaying an exhibit of flowers through Nov. 30, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Free. Downtown Palo Alto Library, 270 Forest Ave., Palo Alto. Call 321-9008. Palo Alto Art Center Free tours for adults with docents in Art Dialogues program. Saturdays, through Dec. 22, 2 p.m.; no tour Nov. 25. Private tours available. Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Road, Palo Alto. Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden Created on-site at Stanford by artists from Papua New Guinea, the garden contains wood and stone carvings of people, animals, and magical beings that illustrate clan stories and creation myths. Tours available 3rd Sunday monthly, 2 p.m. through Dec. 16. Free. Meet at the corner of the Papua New Guinea Sculpture Garden, at Santa Teresa and Lomita Dr. http://museum.stanford.edu Special Places, Intimate Spaces Palo Alto photographer, Nancy Wong, exhibits landscapes from her travels, florals and candid people shots. Through Dec. 10, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Free. Books Inc., Cafe, 301 Castro St., Mountain View. The Mondavi Family Gallery Reinstalled New installation presents the Center’s 19th-century European and American collection. Through Dec. 31. Hours: Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thu., 11 a.m.8 p.m.; closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Free Cantor Arts Center, 328 Lomita Dr., Stanford. Call 723-4177. Tour: Outdoor Sculpture Walk Stanford University’s distinguished outdoor art collection includes nearly 100 sculptures and features important figurative and abstract works by artists of the late 19th century to the present. Meets at the entrance to the Main Quad, facing the Oval. First Sundays monthly through Dec. 2, 2 p.m. Free. Stanford University Main Quad, Serra Mall and Lomita Mall, Stanford. http://museum.stanford.edu/ visit/public_tours.html Unstable Landscape Paintings and drawings by Miriam Hitchcock. The Community School of Music and Arts’ Mohr Gallery displays a mix of art by local and international artists, faculty and students. Sponsored by Heritage Bank of Commerce. Through Nov. 27, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. Community School of Music and Arts, 230 San Antonio Circle, Mountain View. www.arts4all.org Visions of Dharma: Thai Contemporary Art Exhibition highlights the work of two of Thailand’s artists. Works are contemporary and explore a wide range of subjects and styles. Hours: Wed.-Sun., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thu., 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Through March 4. Free. Cantor Arts Center, 328 Lomita Dr., Stanford. Call 723-3469. http://mu seum.stanford.edu

Family and Kids Find Your Spiritual Home

UNITy PALO ALTO - Realize the abundant potential of your life. - Recognize the divinity in yourself and others. - Welcome to Life, Love and God. Welcome to Unity. Services Sunday at 8:45 and 11 a.m. Childcare and youth programs available. 3391 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto; 650-494-7222 www.UnityPaloAlto.org.

“The Nutcracker” Ballet Presented by Redwood City’s Ballet America. Dec. 1, 10 a.m. and 7:30 p.m. $16-$37 reserved. Fox Theater, 2215 Broadway, Redwood City. Call 369-4119. www.americanbal let.com PACT School Info Night Accepting K-5 students from all districts. Nov. 29 and Feb. 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Mariano Castro School, 505 Escuela Ave., Mountain View. www.pactschool.net PACT School Tour Accepting K-5 students from all districts. Nov. 29, Dec. 18, Feb. 28, 10-11 a.m.; Feb. 8, Jan. 11, 8:309:30 a.m. Free. Mariano Castro School, 505 Escuela Ave., Mountain View. www. pactschool.net Preschool Storytime For children ages 3-5. Wednesdays, 11 a.m. College Terrace Library, 2300 Wellesley St., Palo

Goings On

Plans for the PERFECT holiday. See paWord.com

Stop In and Explore Saturdays and Sundays, through Nov. 26, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit the David C. Daniels Nature Center and view displays about natural communities, see larger-than-life pond strata mobiles, take a pond prowl, and have an opportunity to study live aquatic organisms. Free. David C. Daniels Nature Center at Skyline Ridge Open Space Preserve, Park at Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve. www.openspace.org Story Time “Elves and the Shoemaker” Sun., Nov. 26, 11:30 a.m. Free. Kepler’s Books, 1010 El Camino Real, Menlo Park. Call 324-4321. www.keplers.com Toddler Storytime For children ages 18 months-3 years. Fridays, 10 a.m. Mitchell Park Library, 3700 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto. Call 329-2134. www. cityofpaloalto.org/librar y/kids-teens

Korean • Mandarin • Portuguese • Russian • Spanish

2134. www.cityofpaloalto.org/library/ kids-teens Special Program Anna Yevseevna Reznik and Elizaveta Nord will present Russian stories and songs in a program that can be enjoyed by speakers of Russian and English. Nov. 29, 3:30-4:15 p.m. Free. College Terrace, 2300 Wellesley St., Palo Alto. Call 329-2205.

Language Studies Institute

• • • • • • •

Qualified Native Instructors Small Group Classes Private Instruction Anytime Emphasis on Conversation Professional Atmosphere Cultural Tips Convenient Location

Winter Quarter January 8 – March 15 Open House: Saturday, December 16, 1-4 p.m. Last day of discount registration

650-321-1867 • www.languagego.com

Korean • Mandarin • Portuguese • Russian • Spanish

Alto. Call 329-2134. www.cityofpaloalto. org/library/kids-teens Preschool Storytime For children ages 3-5. Fridays, 11 a.m. Mitchell Park Library, 3700 Middlefield Rd., Palo Alto. Call 329-2134. www.cityofpaloalto.org/ library/kids-teens Preschool Storytime For children ages 3-5. Tuesdays, 10 a.m. Main Library, 1213 Newell Rd., Palo Alto. Call 329-

Arabic • English • French • German • Hindi • Italian • Japanese

350 Cambridge Ave. Ste. 100, Palo Alto, CA 94306

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Sports PALO ALTO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Stanford women rebound in time for big hoop trip

NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that proposals will be received by the Palo Alto Unified School District for: Bid # 07-F002: Vending and/or Counter Sales Proposals must be received at the Purchasing Department, 25 Churchill Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94306, prior to January 10, 2007. All questions concerning the proposals should be directed to Denise Sans at (650) 329-3802 or emailed to [email protected]. BY ORDER of the Business Department of the Palo Alto Unified School District, Palo Alto, California. Dated November 24, 2006

Meet Steve.

by Rick Eymer he Stanford women’s basketball had anticipated playing a couple games last week. Instead the 11th-ranked Cardinal sat around for eight days while feeling the affects of an upset loss. Stanford (2-1) certainly didn’t look upset in its 75-60 victory over visiting Missouri on Tuesday night, responding with gusto from the outset and establishing a dominance inside and out. “It was disappointing coming back to practice when we wanted to be traveling,” Stanford senior center Kristen Newlin said. “It was a long week bit we’re looking forward. We have to be better.” That’s good for a team about to embark on one of the toughest trips possible. Stanford plays at No. 4 Tennessee (3-0) on Friday afternoon and at No. 8 Georgia (4-0) on Sunday afternoon. “It was important to come out and play hard,” Stanford coach Tara VanDerveer said. “It’s been a long week of practice but I did see some good things. We need to eliminate the turnovers and play better against Tennessee.” Candice Wiggins led the early charge, scoring 15 of her 21 points in the first half. Stanford led by as many as 27 points and never fewer than 13 in the second half. The Cardinal spent its Thanksgiving in Knoxville preparing for the Lady Vols, who have already feasted on a pair of Pac-10 opponents in UCLA and Arizona State. Tennessee has won 18 of the 22

T

meetings between the teams, including the last 10 in a row. “To me it’s just another game,” Wiggins said. “Sure it does get under the skin having that history.” Wiggins and Tennessee’s Candace Parker played together on the junior national team two years ago and remain good friends. They’re nicknames ‘Ice and Ace’ evolved out of their first names. “This is a huge test,” Wiggins said. “You always learn a lot from your first road trip.” Newlin, who recorded her second double-double in three games with 14 points and 10 rebounds, had a career game in last year’s 74-67 loss to Tennessee. She established her career high with 20 points along with 10 rebounds. “The coaches remind me how I can play against bigger teams,” Newlin said. “Just playing Tennessee in general is exciting; going to that atmosphere and that crowd. We need to get that pumped up against every team.” Stanford has won six of eight meetings with Georgia, splitting two games in Athens. They haven’t met in three years and the Bulldogs haven’t won since the 2000 NCAA tournament. The Cardinal never trailed against Missouri, scoring 10 of the game’s first 12 points. The Tigers were within 24-20 when Stanford scored nine straight points and cruised to a 39-22 halftime lead. With just over four minutes left in the first half, after a foul was called on Missouri’s Toy Richbow,

a short confrontation took place at the foul line when Tigers’ Tiffany Brooks grabbed Wiggins by the neck. A technical foul was subsequently called on Missouri’s Alyssa Hollins. “We lost our composure for about a three or four minute stretch,” Missouri coach Cindy Stein said. “It got a little messy when both teams tried to huddle.” Wiggins said it’s never happened to her before and that it happed quickly. “I may have been in her space a little bit,” Wiggins said. “I just had to step away from the situation.” JJ Hones (four assists, no turnovers) made her first career start, replacing Jillian Harmon. Hones played the point as Cissy Pierce moved to a small forward. “I thought she did well,” VanDerveer said. “The change was made to free up Candice to play the two more. The lineup is not set with the exception of Kristen, Brooke (Smith) and Candice. If we want a bigger lineup we can go with Jillian. We’ve seen some great games from Jill.” After shooting just 38.2 percent in the loss to BYU, Stanford came back to shoot a dazzling 51.7 against Missouri. Smith added 14 points and is the only Stanford player to reach double figures in all three games. Stanford had a distinct advantage inside despite the presence of a pair of six-footers from Missouri. The Cardinal won the rebounding (continued on page 31)

Castilleja, Menlo girls’ volleyball teams are all set for the NorCal semifinals Steve Fick manages our Los Altos office. With 12 years of service at Borel Private Bank, he knows banking, and he knows his clients. An avid cyclist, you can often find Steve biking in the foothills. You can reach him directly at 650.917.4621 or [email protected] Ask him about how he can make banking easy for you, or about the time he broke a spoke coming down Page Mill Road. Banking- we take it personally.

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Member FDIC Page 28 • Friday, November 24, 2006 • Palo Alto Weekly

by Craig Wentz fter flying under the radar screen all season, the Castilleja School girls’ volleyball team is starting to turn heads by peaking at the right time in the most important part of the season. During the regular season, the Gators played .500 volleyball and failed to defend their West Bay Athletic League crown. But since the start of the postseason, Castilleja has rolled through the Central Coast Section playoffs with a Division V title and are two wins away from a NorCal crown and a return trip to the CIF Division V state title match. On Tuesday, No. 2 seed Castilleja (20-17) was sluggish early, then stepped on the gas to sweep No. 7 Portola (20-4), 25-23, 25-23, 25-13, in the opening round of the NorCal Division V playoffs at St. Joseph’s Middle School in Atherton. In a Division IV opener at Menlo College, sophomore Molly Bagshaw picked a good time to produce in the clutch to help No. 2 Menlo (25-13) defeat No. 7 Ripon, 25-16, 27-25, 2125, 29-27. Bagshaw 10 kills help put the Knights into the NorCal semifinals Saturday against No. 3 St. Mary’s of Berkeley (27-9) at 7 p.m. Castilleja, meanwhile, now will host No. 3 Crystal Springs-Up-

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lands (26-7) of Hillsborough on Saturday in a 7 p.m. semifinal at St. Joseph’s. “No one expected us to be here,” said Castilleja fourth-year coach Tracie Hubbard, a former standout player at Menlo-Atherton. “Our goal was to get back to NorCal and we’ve been peaking since the end of league play.” Last season, Castilleja reached the state title match with a talented, senior-laden cohesive crew that had the experience to come up big in tight situations. Despite having many of those players gone due to graduation, the young Gators have continued the postseason magic with only four seniors. “We didn’t have the pressure to advance like last year,” said Hubbard. “Defense is why we’re here.” The Gators’ defense has been outstanding since the beginning of the CCS tournament and it continued into Tuesday night’s triumph. The Gators’ aggressiveness at the net and hustle all over the court was the main reason Portola headed back through the Sierra Nevada’s with its season complete. In a 17-17 tie in Game1, junior Laura Smith serviced five straight winners as Castilleja broke free to lead 22-17. With the Gators up 24-

23, senior Rachel Steyer stuffed a potential Portola kill with a block to give the Gators rolling toward victory. Freshman Erin McLaughlin serviced four straight points for Castilleja in Game 2 to give the Gators an early 6-3 advanatge. The two schools traded points until the Gators broke a 19-19 deadlock to win. The game-winner came on a kill from junior Katie Wang. Sophomore Taylor Docter notched four kills in the game with Wang adding a pair of kills. Castilleja received contributions from everybody who stepped on the floor in Game 3 as the Gators overcame a 3-0 deficit to win 2513. Trailing 5-1, the Gators rattled off 12 of the game’s next 13 points for a comfortable 13-6 advantage en route to the NorCal semifinals. Steyer, Docter and sophomore Adrienne Dreyfus each had two kills in the game. Docter paced the Gators with nine kills in the match as Wang added eight kills. Senior Katherine Jordan served up 29 assists for the match, while junior Audrey Kuan produced 11 digs. Junior Laura Smith had three aces. The front line of Jordan, Steyer (continued on page 30)

Sports HIGH SCHOOL SCOREBOARD BOYS BASKETBALL Nonleague Menlo 9 8 11 10 6 — 44 Gunn 20 4 10 4 3 — 41 M — Guertin 2 8-10 12, Heidrich 3 2-4 9, Smith 3 2-2 8, Cohen 1 2-3 4, Frye 1 1-2 3, Harris 1 0-0 3, Nguyen 0 3-3 3, Tashman 1 0-0 2. Totals: 12 18-24 44. G — Jordan 5 4-5 14, D. Riley 4 2-2 14, Perricone 3 1-2 7, Anthony 1 0-0 3, M. Riley 1 0-0 3. Totals: 14 7-11 41. Three-point goals: Heidrich, Harris (M); D. Riley 4, Anthony, M. Riley (G). Records: Menlo 1-0, Gunn 0-1

GIRLS BASKETBALL Nonleague Palo Alto 24 9 16 16 — 65 Woodside 5 10 9 12 — 36 PA — Barich 1-2-4, Widera 1-1-3, Heenehan 1-0-2, Garcia 2-2-6, Lovely 3-2-9, Pecota 10-8-28, Behr 1-4-6, McDermott 3-1-7. Totals: 22-20-65. W — Harris 0-1-1, Raimes 3-0-7, Godinez 1-0-3, Mantani 1-0-2, Haynes 1-0-2, Chandler 1-0-2, Zarate 1-0-2, Rhodes 1-0-2, Taufou 1-1-3, Barbour 2-0-4, Georgkas 0-2-2, Sorum 1-0-2, Hane 1-0-2. Totals: 15-4-36. Three-point goals: Lovely (PA); Raimes, Godinez (W). Records: Palo Alto 1-0

BOYS SOCCER Nonleague Gunn 1 1 — 2 Valley Christian 2 0 — 2 G — Light (Siemens), Shaffer (Nitzan). VC — Mark (unassisted), Hutton (Tarangioli). Records: Gunn 0-1-1 Menlo-Atherton 0 0 — 0

Palo Alto 1 1 — 2 PA — Nguyen (Zernyk), Zernyk (Kelly). Records: Palo Alto 1-0, Menlo-Atherton 0-1 Aragon 2 3 — 5 Menlo 1 1 — 2 A — unavailable. M — Woolf (Le Moullac), Woolf (Gerla). Records: Menlo 0-2-1

GIRLS SOCCER Burlingame Tournament Pool play Live Oak 1 0 — 1 SH Prep 0 0 — 0 LO — own goal. Records: Sacred Heart Prep 2-2 Nonleague Mtn. View 2 0 — 2 Menlo-Atherton 1 0 — 1 MV — Nelson (unassisted), Matthews (Wells). MA — Renkel (unassisted). Records: Menlo-Atherton 0-1 Castilleja 4 0 — 4 Wilcox 0 0 — 0 C — Ke. Fitzgerald (unassisted), Ke. Fitzgerald (Cooper), Culvin (Ke. Fitzgerald), Cooper (Ke. Fitzgerald). Records: Castilleja 1-1

GIRLS TENNIS CCS Individual Tournament At Courtside TC, Los Gatos Singles First round: Davis (Mitty) d. Daniel (Saratoga), 6-1, 6-3; Pourmirzaie (Leland) d. Kurita (Santa Cruz), 6-2, 6-2; Englert (St. Francis) d. Fukushima (Santa Catalina), 6-3, 7-5; Le (Milpitas) d. Chow (Leland), 6-4, 2-6, 6-1; Chui (Mitty) d. Nactigall (Hillsdale), 6-3, 6-1;

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

Padmanabhan (Harker) d. Gradiska (Pinewood), 6-0, 6-2; Guzman (Leigh) d. Ventimilia (Monterey), 7-5, 6-0; Chang (Monta Vista) d. Pressas (Notre Dame-Salinas), 6-0, 6-0. Quarterfinals: Davis (Mitty) d. Pourmirzaie, 6-0, 6-0; Le (Milpitas) d. Englert, 6-3, 5-7, 6-3; Chui (Mitty) d. Padmanabhan, 4-6, 6-1, 6-3; Chang (MV) d. Guzman, 6-1, 6-0. Semifinals: Davis (Mitty) d. Le, 6-1, 7-6 (73); Chang (MV) d. Chui (Mitty), 6-0, 6-3. Finals: Chang (MV) d. Davis, 6-2, 6-2. Doubles First round: Rosekrans-Hemm (SHP) d. Srinivasan-Lim (Pinewood), 6-1, 6-0; Cappello-Horng (Lynbrook) d. Ramirez-Simmons (Santa Teresa), 6-1, 6-0; Hoffman-Goldman (Menlo) d. J. Silverstein-V. Silverstein (Santa Cruz), 6-1, 6-0; Chui-T. Nguyen (Monta Vista) d. Borjon-Flandez (Oak Grove), 6-0, 6-2; Adama-Tuionetoa (Menlo-Atherton) d. Basor-Lopez (Watsonville), 6-0, 6-0; HullBergeson (Los Gatos) d. Holt-McLeod (RL Stevenson), 6-2, 6-3; Nguyen-Chen (Notre Dame-SJ) d. Gettu-Na (Leland), 6-2, 6-2; Bains-Chin (Monta Vista) d. Furter-Macissac (Notre Dame-Salinas), 6-0, 6-1. Quarterfinals: Rosekrans-Hemm (SHP) d. Cappello-Horng, 6-2, 6-1; Chui-Nguyen (MV) d. Hoffman-Goldman, 0-6, 6-4, 7-6 (86); Adams-Tuionetoa (MA) d. Hull-Bergeson, 6-4, 6-2; Bains-Chin (MV) d. Nguyen-Chen, 6-3, 6-4. Semifinals: Rosekrans-Hemm (SHP) d. Chui-T. Nguyen, 6-2, 6-2; Baines-Chin (MV) d. Adams-Tuionetoa, 6-0, 6-3. Finals: Doubles - Rosekrans-Hemm (SHP) d. Bains-Chin, 6-2, 6-2.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL NorCal Playoffs Division IV First round At Menlo College Menlo d. Ripon, 25-16, 27-25, 21-25, 2927. Top players: Abby Whelan (M) 15 kills; Molly Bagshaw (M) 10 kills; Lizzie Hale (M) 11 kills; Katherine Gorman (M) 30 digs. Records: Menlo 25-13 Division V First round At St. Joseph’s School (Atherton) Castilleja d. Portola, 25-23, 25-23, 25-13. Top players: Taylor Docter (Cast) 9 kills; Katie Wang (Cast) 8 kills; Audrey Kuan (Cat) 11 digs. Records: Castilleja 20-17

Schedule FRIDAY

Megan Burmeister

Ben Hohl

Menlo School

Menlo School

The senior scored four goals in two water polo wins, three in the finals that included the game-winner in overtime to carry the No. 2 Knights past No. 1 Sacred Heart Prep, 8-7, in the CCS Division II championship.

The senior scored 13 goals in two water polo wins, including four in the finals to help the top-seeded Knights defeat No. 2 Sacred Heart Prep, 10-6, to win the CCS Division II title and finish 28-1 on the season.

Honorable mention Elise Ponce* Menlo water polo

Natalie Sandman Menlo volleyball

Laura Smith Castilleja volleyball

Camy Sullivan Menlo water polo

Katie Wang Castilleja volleyball

Abby Whelan Menlo volleyball

Nick Goodspeed Palo Alto football

Matt Hale Menlo water polo

Stephen Hicks Menlo-Atherton water polo

Mike Merlone* Menlo water polo

Tyger Pederson

Football CCS — Open Division: Palo Alto vs. Palma at San Jose City College, 7 p.m. Girls soccer Tournaments — Burlingame: Woodside Priory entered at San Mateo High, 3 p.m.; Sacred Heart Prep at Burlingame High; Pinewood vs. Notre Dame-San Jose at Burlingame, 2:30 p.m.

SATURDAY Boys soccer Nonleague — Gunn vs. Sobrato at Lincoln (San Jose), noon; Menlo vs. Homestead at Lincoln High (San Jose), 3:30 p.m.

MONDAY Boys basketball Nonleague — San Francisco Christian at Woodside Priory, 4:30 p.m.; San Mateo at Menlo-Atherton, 7:30 p.m. Girls basketball Nonleague — Burlingame at Gunn, 7 p.m.; Woodside at Sacred Heart Prep, 7 p.m. Boys soccer Nonleague — Palo Alto at St. Francis, 5:15 p.m. Girls soccer Tournaments — Palo Alto Winter Classic at Stanford/Palo Alto Community Playing Fields: Gunn vs. Salinas, 3:30 p.m. Nonleague — Saratoga at Menlo-Atherton, 3:30 p.m.

TUESDAY

Palo Alto football

Paul Rudolph Sacred Heart Prep water polo * previous winner

Boys basketball Nonleague — Gunn at Aragon, 5:30 p.m. Girls basketball Nonleague — Burton at Woodside Priory,

6:30 p.m.; Menlo at King’s Academy, 6:30 p.m.; Palo Alto at Prospect, 7 p.m. Girls soccer Tournaments — Palo Alto Winter Classic at Stanford/Palo Alto Community Playing Fields: Gunn vs. Los Altos, 2 p.m.; Palo Alto vs. Salinas, 3:30 p.m. Nonleague — Woodside Priory at Pinewood, 3:30 p.m.

Gunn at Santa Cruz, 6 p.m. Girls soccer Tournaments — Palo Alto Winter Classic at Stanford/Palo Alto Community Playing Fields: Palo Alto vs. Leland, 3:30 p.m. Nonleague — Menlo at Santa Clara, 3:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, NOV. 30 Boys basketball

WEDNESDAY Boys basketball Tournaments — James Lick Tournament: Palo Alto entered Girls basketball Tournaments — Burlingame: Palo Alto, Gunn, Pinewood entered. Westmoor Classic: Menlo-Atherton entered. Boys soccer Nonleague — Los Altos at Menlo, 3 p.m.;

Tournaments — James Lick: Palo Alto entered; Cupertino Shootout: Gunn vs. Mills, 5:30 p.m.; San Luis Obispo: Woodside Priory entered. Russ Peterich Classic (Montgomery): Menlo-Atherton entered. Girls basketball Tournaments — Burlingame: Palo Alto, Gunn, Pinewood entered. Lick Wilmerding: Menlo entered. King’s Academy Invitational: Sacred Heart Prep entered

NOTICE OF VACANCIES ON THE LIBRARY ADVISORY COMMISSION FOR THREE, THREE-YEAR TERMS ENDING JANUARY 31, 2010 (Terms of Forte, Gerard and Stucky) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council is seeking applications for the Library Advisory Commission from persons interested in a term ending January 31, 2010. Eligibility Requirements: Composed of seven members who shall be appointed by and shall serve at the pleasure of the City Council, but who shall not be Council Members, officers or employees of the City of Palo Alto. Each member of the commission shall have a demonstrated interest in public library matters. All members of the commission shall at all times be residents of the City of Palo Alto. Regular meetings will be held at 7 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month. Purpose and Duties: The purpose of the Library Advisory Commission shall be to advise the City Council on matters relating to the Palo Alto City Library, excluding daily administrative operations. The commission shall have the following duties: 1. Advise the City Council on planning and policy matters pertaining to: a) the goals of and the services provided by the Palo Alto City Library; b) the future delivery of the services by the Palo Alto City Library; c) the City Manager’s recommendations pertaining to the disposition of major gifts of money, personal property and real property to the City to be used for library purposes; d) the construction and renovation of capital facilities of the Palo Alto City Library; and e) joint action projects with other public or private information entities, including libraries. 2. Review state legislative proposals that may affect the operation of the Palo Alto City Library. 3. Review the City Manager’s proposed budget for capital improvements and operations relating to the Palo Alto City Library, and thereafter forward any comments to one or more of the applicable committees of the Council. 4. Provide advice upon such other matters as the City Council may from time to time assign. 5. Receive community input concerning the Palo Alto City Library. 6. Review and comment on fund-raising efforts on behalf of the Palo Alto City Library. The Library Advisory Commission shall not have the power or authority to cause the expenditure of City funds or to bind the City to any written or implied contract. Appointment information and application forms are available in the City Clerk’s Office, 250 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto (Phone: 650-329-2571). Deadline for receipt of applications in the City Clerk’s Office is 5:00 p.m., Friday, December 8, 2006. If one of the incumbents does not reapply, the deadline will be extended to Wednesday, December 13, 2006. PALO ALTO RESIDENCY IS A REQUIREMENT.

DONNA J. ROGERS, City Clerk


Sports and 2. At Menlo College, Bagshaw came off the bench and moved from setter to hitter — producing six of her 10 kills in the final game to help the Knights advance. Ripon was keying on Menlo’s 6-2 junior Natalie Sandman, which left

Prep roundup (continued from page 28)

and Docter denied Portola time and time again at the net and came up big when Portola had opportunities to increase leads in both Game 1

Bagshaw unattended in the corner. She registered a kill to tie Game 4 at 26. The teams traded points before Bagshaw served an ace for the victory. Sandman drew the late-match attention after registering four stuff blocks in Game 1. In Games 2 and

3, Menlo senior setter went to sophomore Abby Whelan, who produced most of her game-high 15 kills. Sandman finished with six blocks and six kills while junior Katherine Gorman did a solid job of passing with 30 digs.

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Girls tennis Sacred Heart Prep senior Sam Rosekrans and junior teammate Haley Hemm capped a very successful season by winning the doubles title at the CCS Individual Tournament that concluded Tuesday at Courtside Tennis Club in Los Gatos. Rosekrans, who won the CCS singles title last season, was bothered by a torn stomach muscle most of this season. She played No. 2 singles behind Hemm. When it came time to decide on playing singles or doubles in the postseason, the SHP duo decided to go after the doubles title that eluded them in 2004. The decision proved to be a wise one for the Gators, who swept through the tournament with four straight-set victories. They capped their run with a 6-2, 6-2 win over Monta Vista’s Taskeen Bains and Courtney Chin. “We got to finish it with a bang,” said Rosekrans, who became only the fourth player in CCS history to win both a singles and doubles title in her career. The others were Gunn’s Rebecca Dirksen, Stephanie Schnitter of St. Francis and Allie Lipton of Monta Vista. Menlo-Atherton’s team of junior Marjorie Adams and freshman Marietta Tuionetoa took home third place with a 6-4, 6-3 win over Monta Vista’s Jennifer Chui and Tiffany Nguyen. Basketball Palo Alto’s Rachael Pecota scored 28 points to lead the Vikings to a 65-36 season-opening victory over host Woodside on Tuesday night. On Monday, the Gunn girls opened their season with a 57-29 victory over visiting Branham as the Titans had 22 steals and forced 28 turnovers. Neva Hauser led Gunn with 14 points while Sophie Shevick added 13. In boys’ action, Menlo opened its season Tuesday with a 44-41 overtime victory over host Gunn (0-1). The Titans raced to a 20-9 firstquarter lead before the Knights clamped down defensively. Gunn seniors Peter Jordan and David Riley topped all scorers with 14 points each. Gunn had a chance to win in regulation, but Jordan’s shot from the left side with two seconds to go missed. Eastside Prep is off to a 2-0 start after the Panthers topped Emery, 54-47, Tuesday night. Mobolaji David led the way with 20 points and 12 rebounds with Ivan Prema adding 12 points. The Panthers open their season earlier in the week with a 5644 victory over Athenian as Ramon Meacham tossed in 22 points. Soccer Palo Alto opened its season on Tuesday with a 2-0 nonleague triumph over host Menlo-Atherton. Junior Matt Nguyen scored the first goal on a head ball into the upper left corner off a corner kick by sophomore Adam Zernyk. Just 13 minutes into the second half, Zernyk took a cross from Ian Kelly and volleyed it into the corner of the cage. In girls’ nonleague play, Kelly Fitzgerald scored two goals and added two assists to spark Castilleja (1-0) to a 4-0 triumph over host Wilcox. ■

Sports

Stanford roundup (continued from page 28)

battle, 43-32, and outscored the Tigers in the paint by a 42-16 margin. Wrestling Stanford redshirt junior Tanner Gardner dropped a 4-1 decision to Oklahoma’s Sam Hazewinkel on Monday as he became the second Cardinal to be selected for the AllStar Classic in Dallas. “Tanner wrestled tough but made two mistakes that cost him the match,” Stanford coach Kerry McCoy said. “It’s good to see things now will help him later when it really counts.”

Ranked fifth in the nation at 125 pounds, Gardner won his first eight matches of the season after finishing eighth in last year’s NCAA championships. Stanford participates in the Las Vegas Invitational beginning Dec. 1.

day, capping a perfect season for the Americans, who won their third tournament title. Mendoza is one of Team USA’s leading hitters and outfielders while Rittman serves as an assistant coach. The junior national team — with

Softball There was something new and something old, and nothing but red, white and blue for the United States junior and senior national teams over the weekend. Stanford coach John Rittman and Stanford grad Jessica Mendoza were part of the senior team’s 7-0 win over Japan in the finals of the Japan Cup in Yokohama on Sun-

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Stanford freshmen Alissa Haber and Rosey Neill on the roster — beat host Puerto Rico, 7-0, in the championship game of the Junior Women’s Pan American tournament. Haber hit .500 (11-for-22) in the 10-game tournament and drove in eight runs. Neill hit .333 (5-for-15)

with a home run, and five RBI. Field hockey Stanford senior defender Aska Sturdevan earned a spot on the second team West Region All-American, selected by the National Field Hockey Coaches Association. ■

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Last Year’s Grant Recipients Adolescent Counseling Services....... $7500 American Red Cross - Palo Alto Area . 5000 Bread of Life ........................................ 5000 California Family Foundation .............. 2500 Challenge Learning Center.................. 5000 Cleo Eulau Center................................ 5000 Collective Roots Garden Project ......... 7500 Community Breast Health Project ....... 5000 East Palo Alto Kids Foundation ........... 7500 East Palo Alto YMCA .......................... 7500 Ecumenical Hunger Program (EHP) ..... 7500 Environmental Volunteers ................... 3000 East Palo Alto Children’s Day ............. 5000 Foundation for a College Education .... 5000 Hidden Villa ......................................... 5000 Inn Vision/Urban Ministry .................. 5000 Jeremiah’s Promise, Inc. ..................... 7500 JLS PTA Homework Habitat ................ 6000 Jordan Middle School PTA.................. 2500 Kara ..................................................... 5000 Mini Infant Center ............................... 2000 Music in the Schools Foundation........ 5000 New Creation Home Ministries .......... 5000 Nuestra Casa....................................... 7500 Palo Alto Art Center Foundation ........ 7500 Palo Alto Community Child Care ........ 8000 Palo Alto Friends Nursery School ....... 3500 Palo Alto Housing Corporation............ 5000 Parents Leadership Institute ............... 7500 Peninsula Stroke Association ............. 1100 Plugged In/EPA.net ............................. 5000 Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic ..... 2500 Stanford Children’s Center ................. 2000 St. Elizabeth Seton School .................. 5000 St. Vincent de Paul Society ................. 5000 Teach for America ............................... 2500 The Children’s Health Council ............. 2500 The Learning Center ............................ 2000 TheatreWorks...................................... 5000 West Bay Opera .................................. 5000 YES Reading ........................................ 5000 YMCA of the Mid-Peninsula ............... 5000 Youth Community Service ................... 5000

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