Dear Neighbors:

I hope the many pages devoted to emergency preparedness, safety reminders, and evacuation guidelines don’t give you the impression that the November Echo delivers a “downbeat” message. On the contrary, November is truly a Thanksgiving issue containing news and event stories express-ing gratitude for people and organizations in our community. We’re thankful that Kings Mountain was spared the devastation caused elsewhere by wind and fire; however, the preparedness procedures in this issue are meaningful--not somber. Tear out or download the pages of emergency advice offered by various KMVFD leaders. Read and follow the tips; get prepared and you will feel better. If you still have doubts about the value of preparedness, read Marty Eisenberg’s Monthly Musings. In this issue, our normally jovial sage of interesting, diverse topics writes of his experience with the Sonoma fire victim friends of his daughter. While he gave them pro bono advice about insurance policy and legal issues, he writes compellingly about what he learned from them too. It is a thought-ful read that is especially appropriate as we contemplate our upcoming Thanksgiving festivities with family and friends.

Enjoy our interview with Xuan Ho upon the completion of the multi-year mosaic project at the Community Center. It is a classic Kings Mountain story where one person’s vision was supported and enhanced by many contributing volunteers. Next, although she will undoubtedly be chagrined by the attention, we felt compelled to express thanks to Pat Mann for chairing decades of terrific com-munity fun at Halloween. The party was fantastic and we thank Pat and everyone on her volunteer staff that made it happen. Finally, I hope you will read this issue’s pages about Kings Mountain Elementary School. Your editor sheepishly admits to being very proud to attend the Cabrillo Govern-ing School Board meeting where Principal Diane Siegel outlined the special qualities that make KMES a special learning environment. I’ve included a summary of that presentation. It will give you some idea about the student/parent engagement and supportive school culture that makes many so grateful for our tiny but mighty school.

Save the dates: Saturday, December 2nd is the Garden Club’s annual Wreath Making Party. This is the chance for even the minimally talented to get able assistance and emerge with gorgeous holiday decor.

Sunday, December 3rd Santa arrives at the KMA Holiday Party. He will be anxious to hear your every wish for a happy and bountiful Holiday Season.

Best regards,

Eileen Fredrikson, Editor Bill Goebner, Echo Photographer Marty Eisenberg, Echo Columnist

November 2017 Volume 13, Issue 11

Another Spectacular Spooktacular on the Mountain It is hard to know how so many creatively creepy critters find their

way to Kings Mountain on Halloween! Perhaps they are simply pulled in by Pat Mann’s incredible web of spooky creativity. The Spooktacular was a blast for creepy critters, young and old, large and small. Frankly, your editor is at a loss to express sufficient thanks, to perennial party chair, Pat Mann, the Mountain’s maven of monster madness! For decades, she has created a wild and wonderful party that has filled us all with Happy Halloween memories. Perhaps Alma Fletcher, herself a veteran volunteer of many Spooktaculars, said it best in this KM Yahoo Group posting:

“Thank you, Pat Mann, for another fantastic Hallow-een party last night. The kids all enjoyed themselves immensely, and we grown-ups had a great time too. What’s not to like about hot dogs, wine and beer? Thanks also to the KMA Board, the kitchen crew and the volunteers who helped to make it fun for all. I don’t know of another community who puts on a show like this for the kids every year. How many years have you been doing this, Pat? It’s appreciated!” Other neighbors echoed Alma’s senti-ments, with KMES parent leader Maria Polonchek adding, “I second Alma's message of gratitude. Not only is it a magical night for the kids, but also a meaningful reminder that we are all part of a positive, accepting, caring community. These traditions, celebrations, and connections sustain a young family like ours and wouldn't be possible without the generosity of neighbors.” Pretty much says it all, don’t you think? It takes a Mountain!

Photos by Ingrid Hegerberg

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Notice to Kings Mountain Residents from Jim Sullivan, Chief KMVFD The October high wind event that created the wildfire situation faced by many

communities to our North was also felt here in Kings Mountain. The KMVFD, along many neighboring stations, responded to reports of trees down in the early hours of October 9th. While the magnitude of the wind was not as great here, the potential for a similar outcome existed.

Our community was fortunate that there were no power lines where the trees fell (the last two winters have culled many of the weak trees). The severe fire conditions we experienced here in October are not unusual. It is simply a matter of luck whether a fire ignition will coincide with the most severe burning conditions.

The communities in the North found themselves without power, phone, cable, internet, and cell service. First Responders driving block by block and door to door were the only means of communicating the evacuation message. The question in my mind is would that have worked here on that morning? In the past, we would have depended on help from KMEP – the Kings Mountain Emergency Preparedness Team. As the fire chief, I am putting out this public plea for the members of this community to rebuild their CERT (Community Emergency Response Team). The training program for CERT volunteers is 25 hours.

The KMEP team was one of the first, if not the first, CERT organizations on the peninsula. They have

• Responded to storm events. Most notably the 1998 El Nino event • Mobilized for several local emergencies • Established and operated a make shift 911 call center for our community

when the SM County 911 system went down • Assisted the SM Sheriff Dept with searches for missing and at risk persons

Many of the community members that founded and maintained this organization are starting to get up in their years. We need some new members to carry the torch. We do not know when the next fire, earthquake, or storm event will occur. We need Kings Mountain volunteers at the ready, prior to disaster striking. Volunteers are needed to represent local streets or neighborhoods and to assist in communicating and coordinating emergency efforts.

On November 2, we held a meeting for Kings Mountain residents in the Community Center to review emergency preparedness and to describe the CERT program. We answered many questions from the community and a number of community members signed up as volunteers.

We need more people to help, especially from each local neighborhood or area. If you would like to volunteer, please send your contact information to station56@kmfd.org or leave a message at 650 851-8897. Jim Sullivan, Chief Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Department 13889 Skyline Blvd, Woodside CA 94062 Office 650 851-8897, Cell 650 759-0808

Please volunteer to assist the Kings Mountain Emergency Preparedness Team today!

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To All Kings Mountain ResidentsIn light of the recent very dangerous fire condition and the fire events in our region, the Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Department would like to inform our residents of the suggested Wildland Fire Evacuation Guidelines. If you have any questions regarding evacuation guidelines, please feel free to contact me. Hank Stern, Assistant Chief, Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Department HankStern@comcast.net

BEFORE –Prepare for Evacuation around your home • Make sure you have a defensible space around you house and property: http://www.readyforwildfire.org/

• Clear leaves and other debris from gutters, eaves, porches and decks. This prevents embers from igniting your home.

• Remove dead vegetation and other items from under your deck/porch and within 10 feet of the house. • Remove flammable materials (firewood, propane tanks, furniture, door mats, toys, trash cans) within 30 feet of

your home’s foundation and outbuildings, including garages and sheds. Place them inside the house if necessary. • Connect garden hoses to outside water valves for use by firefighters. Fill any pools, hot tubs, garbage cans, tubs,

or other large containers with water and place them around the house. • Seal attic and ground vents with pre-cut plywood or commercial seals. • Install dual-sensor smoke alarms on each level of your home, and in each bedroom. Be sure to test the alarms

monthly and change the batteries at least once each year. • Have charged fire extinguishers available close to the kitchen and other fire sources (BBQ, fireplace). Teach each

family member how to use a fire extinguisher and show them where they are located. • Review your homeowner's insurance policy and also prepare/update an inventory of your home's contents. • Back your car into the driveway/garage with vehicle loaded and all doors and windows closed. Carry car keys with

you. • Have a ladder available and place it at the corner of the house for firefighters to quickly access your roof. • Patrol your property and monitor the fire situation. Don’t wait for an evacuation order if you feel threatened. • Check on neighbors and make sure they are preparing to leave. • Place lawn sprinklers on the roof and near aboveground fuel tanks. Use sprinklers to wet these structures as long

as possible. Don’t leave sprinklers on or water running when you have evacuated; they can affect critical water pressure.

• If you have gas-powered pumps for water, make sure they are fueled, operational, and ready. • Disconnect any automatic garage door openers so that doors can still be opened by hand if the power goes out,

but keep the door closed. • Clear driveway access to your house (at least 20 feet wide) to insure safe access and exiting for fire apparatus.

In your home • Shut all windows and doors, leaving them unlocked (if you are comfortable). This allows emergency personnel to

easily enter the structure in an emergency situation. • Move flammable furniture to the center of the room, away from windows and doors. • Remove flammable window shades, lightweight curtains, and close metal shutters. • Turn off propane tanks; turn off pilot lights. • Leave your lights on so firefighters can see your house under smoky conditions. • Shut off the heating and air conditioning. • Close all doors inside the house to prevent draft. Open the damper on your fireplace, but close the fireplace

screen.

Creating an emergency plan • Stay aware of the latest news and updates from local media and fire department. Have family, home and pets

prepared to evacuate. Monitor social media. • Sign up for notifications from the San Mateo County Alert System: http://hsd.smcsheriff.com/smcalert • Assemble an emergency supply kit and place it your car.

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• Develop an emergency evacuation plan and practice it with everyone in your home. • Plan two ways out of your neighborhood and designate a meeting place outside of the hazard area. • Arrange temporary housing at a friend or relative’s home outside the threatened area in case you need to

evacuate. • Wear protective clothing when outside – sturdy shoes, cotton or wool clothes, long pants, a long-sleeved shirt,

gloves and a handkerchief to protect your face.

Animals• Locate your pets and keep them nearby. • Prepare farm animals for transport and think about moving them to a safe location early. • Have To-Go bag for your pets, to include a separate animal carrier for each animal.

DURING - Immediate Evacuation Required Communication

• You may be advised or ordered to evacuate via a reverse 911 telephone call, directly by emergency first responders, a neighbor, radio/TV, social media, or notification via the San Mateo County Alert System (text/e-mail).

• If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Take your emergency kit, pets, and choose an escape route away from the fire hazard. You may be advised of the escape route with your evacuation orders.

• You may be directed to temporary assembly areas to await transfer to a safe location. • Stay informed of weather and fire conditions

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=37.450246791984696&lon=-122.33814438110352 This may impact your evacuation timing and escape route. Watch for changes in the speed and direction of the fire and smoke.

• Inform someone of when you left and where you are going. • If you see a wildfire and haven't received evacuation orders yet, call 911. Don't assume that someone else has

already called. Describe the location of the fire, speak slowly and clearly, and answer any questions asked by the dispatcher.

Evacuation • Leave as early as possible, before you’re told to evacuate. Do not linger once evacuation orders have been given.

Promptly leaving your home and neighborhood clears roads for firefighters to get equipment in place to fight the fire.

• Ensure your emergency kit is in your vehicle. • Cover-up to protect against heat and flying embers. Wear long pants, long sleeve shirt (100% cotton preferable),

heavy shoes/boots, cap, dry bandanna for face cover, and goggles or glasses. • Locate your pets and take them and their To-Go kit with you. • Evacuation driving visibility may be significantly reduced. Be prepared for multiple hazards (emergency vehicles,

downed trees, downed power lines, other vehicles, and pedestrian traffic). • Do not block roadway. Keep clear for other evacuees and emergency vehicles. • If it is not safe to evacuate, shelter in-place in your home. Advise 911 of your status.

AFTER – Returning Home • Continue to listen to news updates for information about the fire. • Return home only when authorities say it is safe to do so. • Be alert for downed power lines and other road hazards. Avoid damaged or fallen power lines, poles and downed

wires. • Use caution when entering burned areas as hazards may still exist, including hot spots, which can flare up without

warning. • Check propane tanks, regulators, and lines before turning gas on. If you are not sure or qualified to turn on

propane and re-light pilot lights, do not turn on gas until a qualified service representative provides a service visit. • Check your residence carefully for hidden embers or smoldering fires. • For several hours after the fire, maintain a "fire watch." Re-check for smoke and sparks throughout the house,

including the attic. • If you detect heat or smoke when entering a damaged building, evacuate immediately and call 911. • Watch for ash pits and mark them for safety – warn family and neighbors to keep clear of the pits also. • Watch animals closely and keep them under your direct control. Hidden embers and hot spots could burn your

pets’ paws or hooves. • Remain calm, pace yourself, and listen carefully to what people are telling you, and deal with urgent situations

first. • Contact your insurance company if there is any damage.

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Kings Mountain Residents: The National Weather Service issued Red Flag Fire Warnings that included the Kings Mountain area several times this fall. Red Flag Warnings are declared to alert fire departments and residents of the onset of critical weather and dry conditions that could lead to rapid or dramatic increases in wildfire activity and that could result in extreme fire behavior. When a Red Flag warning is in place, these are the safety precautions you need to follow:

1. Equipment Use Safety • Never mow or trim dry grass or vegetation. • Spark arresters are required on all portable gasoline powered equipment. 2. Fire Safety • Avoid ALL burning. • Do not start any fires, campfires, warming files, or burn piles. 3. Defensible Space • Residents should make sure they have 100 feet of defensible space around structures. • Clear dead weeds and vegetation. • Remove leaves and needles from gutters. • Trim branches 6 feet from the ground. 4. Vehicles • Never pull over in dry grass. • Ensure trailer chains don't drag on the ground. • Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained. • Have proper tire pressure to avoid driving on wheel rim. • Never let your brake pads wear too thin. 5. Other • Make sure cigarette butts are properly extinguished. • Avoiding target shooting. • Report any suspicious activities to prevent arson. Hank Stern, Assistant Chief, Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Department

Red Flag Warning Day Safety Reminder

How to Get Emergency Alerts on Your Cell Phone

San Mateo County Alerts: In an emergency, San Mateo County will send you an email and/or text message to your cell phone or mobile device. Additional instructions may follow, so keep your device near you. Even if voice service fails, text messages may still come through to your phone. To subscribe to this free service, visit http://hsd.smcsheriff.com/smcalert Nixle Alerts: Nixle is a national critical communication provider that is trusted by more than 8,000 public safety agencies, organizations, schools and hospitals. Cal Fire representatives mentioned this service several times during the recent briefings about the catastrophic wine county fires. To subscribe to this free service, which includes alerts from San Mateo County, the Redwood City Police Department, and the San Mateo County Office of Public Safety Com-munications, visit https://local.nixle.com/register/ CalFire twitter feeds that you can follow: *@CAL_FIRE* (all of California) *@CALFIRECZU*(unit responsible for San Mateo County). Grass fire alerts: register at firedispatch.com, then select San Mateo County and grass fires.

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Inside the Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Brigade

By Steve Johnson November 2017

What’s in YOUR Go Bag???

We all remember the recent fires in Napa, Sonoma and Boulder Creek. We’ve smelled and seen the smoke from 100 miles away. Many people had only minutes to evacuate their homes. Will you be prepared if something like that happens in our neighborhood? Many emergency agencies recommend having a “Go Bag” with essentials that you can grab and go in an emergency. My wife and I have a duffle bag we use as a Go Bag, stored in our bedroom closet. If something happens, we can grab it and leave in 2 minutes. Our go bag includes:

• Water – a couple of large water bottles • Food – MREs – Meals Ready to Eat (10 year life) • Hand cranked flashlight and radio plus a Small First Aid Kit • One pair of walking shoes and sox per person • Spare personal items, including Tooth brushes/toothpaste, Spare glasses/contact

lenses and medications • Emergency blankets and inflatable pillows • Cell Phone Charger • Portable hard drive with all critical files (a USB drive will work too) • Bay area maps • Money + copies of driver’s licenses, passports • House and safe deposit keys • List of emergency contacts and credit cards • Pet Supplies and food

If you have children, you may have each of them prepare their own Go Bag, using a small backpack. If you have a spare laptop, you might want to load essential files and keep it next to your Go Bag. Your smart phone is also a good place to store emergency information and contacts. You can even store Word Documents and Excel Files on your phone. You may want to build a larger disaster kit with more water, food and clothing that will fit in the trunk of your car, or in another safe place outside your house. If your house is destroyed, you can still get to it. I will publish an earthquake supplies list next issue. Here is a link to how to build a disaster kit with 3 days’ worth of supplies. Amazon and other vendors also sell emergency kits. https://www.ready.gov/build-a-kit# Please email me at sfjohns@pacbell.net or call 650-851-8447 for more information.

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MINUTES OF THE KMVFB MEETING on October 10, 2017

ATTENDANCE: Jon Fredrikson, Valerie Trenter, Darrin Jewell, Joe Rockmore, Bill Goebner, Jim Sullivan, Matt King, Tm German, Carrie German, Chris Ice, Steve Johnson, Hank Stern, Frank Adams.

Board president Jon Fredrikson called the KMVFB Meeting to order at 7:32pm. SECRETARY’S REPORT: The Board approved the minutes of the prior meetings on September 12, 2017 and August 8, 2017.

TREASURER’S REPORT: No Treasurer’s report this month. BUILDING MANAGER’S REPORT: Kathy Shubin reported the following uses of the Community Center in September 2017:

Exercise/Dance Classes 17Monthly Community Board Meetings 3KMVFB Training & Maintenance 8Community Events/Parties 3Private Events/Parties 1

TOTAL USES FOR THE MONTH 32 FIRE CHIEF’S REPORT: September 2017

Medical aid 10 Vehicle accident 5 Public assist 7 Firefighter standby 0 Vehicle fire 0 Smoke check 11 Structure fire 0 Vegetation fire 3 Hazardous materials 0 Rescue 0 Cover assignment 0 Alarm sounding 1 Water tender group response 3 Trash fire 1 TOTAL # RESPONSES FOR THE MONTH

41 AVERAGE # OF RESPONDERS

6

Number of incidents with no Volunteer response:

1

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OLD BUSINESS:

E-56 Fire Truck Replacement: Jim Sullivan reported that this is still under review and that the group is preparing specifications for getting bids.

KMEP (KMCERT) Revitalization: There was a sense of urgency from the board members to revitalize this organization due to the current fires and community challenges in neighboring Northern California communities. A revitalization effort is under review and a committee is being formed and headed by Frank Adams. Members include Joe Rockmore, Bill Goebner, Steve Johnson and Jon Fredrikson. Jim Sullivan will ask community residents to volunteer as Block Captains and emergency coordinators.

Main Parking Lot & Picnic Area Sealing: The Community Center driveway, parking lot and picnic area has been sealed and painted with bright new lines. The Board thanked Carrie German for her fine efforts in overseeing this project.

Community Center Telephones: The board is evaluating service and costs from Comcast and AT&T. A committee was formed with Chris Ice, Bill Goebner, Carrie German and Joe Rockmore who review the options and make a recommendation to the board.

Community Commemorative Walkway: The concept, location and cost are under review.

NEW BUSINESS: None.

MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:28 pm.

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, November 14, 2017

Respectfully submitted,

itÄxÜ|x gÜxÇàxÜ / Secretary

A Good Community Turnout for Fire Extinguisher Day Fire extinguisher day on October 14 was successful as 21 Kings Mountain families serviced or replaced a total of 52 fire extinguishers. In addition, the Gerboth Fire Extinguisher Company replaced three 20 lb. extinguishers at the community center that had passed their useful service date. One was on E356; the other two were in the radio/utility room and in the cookshack. All the extinguishers on the fire apparatus and in the community center complex also were serviced. Many thanks to Steve Johnson, who chaired the event. Also, thanks to helpers Ingrid Hegerberg from the KMA and John Curcio and Ann Gabrys from KMVFD.

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Mosaic Task Force Completes New Cookshack Sign an Interview with Xuan Ho

Xuan Ho was all smiles on Oct. 11 as she and

some of her volunteers watched Tim German, Nick Alafouzos and her husband, Heip Ho begin installa-tion of a mosaic sign above the cookshack roll up counter. The vibrant mosaic design reading “Cookshack” and featuring iconic Art Fair menu items rising from grill flames marked the completion of a long-term Community Center project she spear-headed. Began as a utilitarian idea of providing visi-tor seating around the CC grounds during Art Fair, two additional design/install phases added artistic functional signage and unique exterior wall décor to the CC and the Verizon tower. “Originally, it was sort of an accident,” says Xuan. “Elderly art fair goers asked for permission to sit on chairs in my Mountain Artist booth.” We need places to rest in locations around our hilly environment, she thought. A bench across the street from the CC inspired her to action. “I would like to apply my skill doing something for the community,” she said. The result was five mosaic benches; 2 designed by Ho and one each from designs by Betsy Rix, Sarah Carlson & Bow Sterger, strategically placed around the grounds in time for the 2009 Art Fair as well as decorative mosaic art on the Verizon pedestal.

In “classic” Kings Mountain style, Xuan’s idea was implemented as an all-volunteer effort. Led by Xuan, 38 neighbors completed the first phase over seven weekends. In 2011, 40 volun-teers completed the Hiking on Kings Mountain mural and Phleger Station signage assembling them at Marty Eisenberg’s workshop. Marty again generously donated his workshop as home base for assemblage of the recently installed “Cookshack” signage. Designed in three pieces and meticulously installed as one long sign, 27 neighbors finished the project over the first two weekends in October. Working to great background music from Marty’s sound system and for-tified with delicious lunches from his kitchen, the volunteer team beat Xuan’s time allotted for the project by 1 ½ days. Volunteers included: Carolyn Adams Marilyn Alafouzos, Nick Alafouzos (installation day), Renee Anker, Sarah Carlson, Linda Elliott, Eileen Fredrikson, Vibs Gade, Gary Gamel, Penny Gamel, Carrie German, Tim German (installation day), Linda Hennessey, Hiep Ho, Sarah Lefort, Jan Leveque, Pat Mann, Cindy Oldham, Cindy Phelps. Betsy Rix,, Kelly Sanderson, Maya Sanderson, Judith Stratos, Grace Swarbricks, Lisa Swarbricks, Kim Ward, and Pat Wurster.

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As a volunteer at the first and last phases of the Community Center mosaic project, I can testify that volunteers had a lot of fun. I can also say, without reservation, that it took an ex-traordinary amount of time, energy, and perseverance from our leader, Xuan Ho, to oversee the full concept through to completion. In our interview, Xuan downplayed the creativity, logis-tics, planning and leadership that the project required. “I just wanted to give something back to the Kings Mountain Community,” she repeated. Xuan was part of the “boat people” refugee exodus from Vietnam. She escaped with family members, crammed 20 people in a shack on a bandit fishing boat, allowed only 2 changes of clothes and a bag of oranges. After hearing her personal story of that harrowing journey, it became easier to understand how Xuan can readily minimize her mosaic project “journey.” Never the less, we are proud to offer heartfelt thanks to Xuan Ho in the Echo on behalf of this community. Eileen Fredrikson

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JOIN OR REWEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP FOR 2018 TODAY (If you joined KMVFB this year, thank you for supporting community safety!)

(The Fire Brigade is a separate organization from the KMA.)

� The�Fire�Department,�supported�by�the�Fire�Brigade,�provides�immediate�response�to�911�calls�in�the�Kings�Mountain�Area.�

�� A�Fire�Department�response�could�

save�your�home,�if�not�your�life.��

� The�Fire�Brigade�depends�entirely�on�donations,�the�Art�Fair�and�annual�membership�dues.�

�

� Only�Fire�Brigade�members�may�utilize�the�Community�Center�for�personal�and�private�functions, as per User Policy.�

�� Membership�dues�make�free�use�of�the�

Community�Center�possible�for�events�that�benefit�the�community�as�a�whole:�KMA,�KMEP,�Garden�Club�and�more.�

�� The�Fire�Brigade�gets�NO�tax�revenue�from�

the�State�or�County.

����Yes,�I�would�like�to�support�the�Volunteer�Fire�Brigade�in 2018!

��Name____________________________________________�Date_____________����Address____________________________________________________________����Telephone____________________________Email__________________________�

Amount Enclosed: $ 35 annual dues

Additional tax deductable donation $ _______

Make check to: The Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Brigade, Inc. The KMVFB is a non-profit, tax-deductible 501(c) 3 corp. Tax I.D. Number 94-1650185.

Mail to: KMVFB 13889 Skyline Blvd. Woodside CA, 94062

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KMA Holiday

Party

Sunday, December � 5 p.m. – � p.m.

Santa Arrives @ 6 p.m. KM Community Center

KMA will provide beverages. Please bring a snack to share.

A-M Appetizer

N-Z Dessert

AAll are

welcome!

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Kings Mountain School Presentation to the Cabrillo School Board Governing Board

Every year, each school makes a presentation before the Cabrillo District about the special qualities of their school. Kings Mountain Elementary School was the very first school asked to present this year and it was immediately apparent that the October 12th Board Meeting had KMES on the agenda. Principal Diane Siegel, plus all three KMES teachers, KM Echo Editor, and many parents, (all wearing green KMES logo t-shirts) were in the audience. An esprit de corps among teachers as well as community and parent support for our school was obvious to all.

Principal Diane Siegel’s comprehensive presentation emphasized how Kings Mountain’s size and working together ethos reflects the school culture driving all programs. A summary highlighting key points is being drafted by the district for a new information brochure about KMES. It will include:

• Second Step (social emotional learning); Responsive Classroom academic strategies, Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports are used to educate the child along with Eureka Math, Teachers College Reading & Writing Workshops especially well-suited to multi grade classrooms.

o Our social emotional curriculum is considered as important as our academic curriculum o "An ideal culture is one that makes a place for every human gift." ( Margaret Mead) KMES

is a place that sees each student and member of our community as a gift. o through it we foster Student Agency-- the ability to positively assert oneself to achieve

self-selected goals • Science, Music & Art thrive on the mountain

o Art-In-Action in every classroom (Parent & Teacher Team Taught) o Parent funded music and science utilizes 1 teacher each for all grades

• 5th Grade Science Leadership o A program unique to KMES- based on YPAR (Youth Participatory Action Research- social

justice curriculum). KM focus is environmental. Students identify a local environmental. problem, research it, make a plan to address it, go before Site Council to share plan and request funds, lead a school wide assembly to implement plan, monitor and adapt their plan throughout the year.

• Our size makes us unique o Multiple jobs are shared o team teaching is prevalent o all full-time staff serve on Site Council o KMES partners closely with parents and KM community

In addition, the governing board presented community recognition certificates to Kate Shea and Julie Pederson honoring each person’s special contribution to KMES as follows:

The Governing Board recognizes Ms. Kate Shea. Ms. Shea is a Kings Mountain School parent of seven years. Each year Ms. Shea organizes parents and community members to bake some 4,000 cookies at Wedemeyer Bakery in South San Francisco to sell at the Kings Mountain Art Fair as our big annual fundraiser. This monumental task is one of our greatest community builders, with past and present Kings Mountain School families and local Kings Mountain community members baking together. Ms Shea never hesitates to step in to provide support when needed. Thank you Kate!

The Governing Board recognizes Ms. Julie Pedersen. Ms. Pedersen is a big hearted Kings Mountain School parent of six years. Ms. Pedersen started as a classroom volunteer who continues to offer support, spending more and more time helping out at school as an Art-In-Action parent volunteer for her son’s classes, fundraising events, K/1 parent helper, office support, and it was clear she needed to join the staff. Julie became our noon duty supervisor. Still offering more help, Julie began subbing for our after school program. This year Julie is one of our classroom aides, and continues doing noon yard duty, Art-In-Action, fundraising, subbing when needed, and a classroom parent helper extraordinaire. Thank you Julie!

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November 2017 News The first two months of school whirled by at a fast pace this year. Key curriculum units for Reading and Writing Workshops, Eureka Math, Second Step social/emotional learning are well underway. Responsive Classroom self-directed goals for the year have been developed by every student and shared with parents. Principal Diane Siegel presented the KMES literacy goals and strategies for achieving them at the annual Kings Mountain School Reading Celebration on Oct. 27th. Following a discussion about reading levels and reading comprehension, students took parents into their classrooms to show them how they choose “just

right” books for themselves. They also shared some strategies they learned for checking their “understanding” and tackling “tricky words” while reading.

Science and music enrichment programs moved into high gear as new teachers Robin and Paul unleashed assignments that were chal-lenging, innovative and fun. Naturally, October closed in a burst of Halloween hi-jinx. Creatively costumed students, staff and parents enjoyed spooky stories in the library, parades in the classrooms and parent prepared treats and activities.

Juliette Freestone, KMAP Fundraising and events Chair sent the Echo good news about this year’s high energy VTD (Voluntary Tuition Drive) campaign. She said, "It Takes a Moun-tain defined the success of the Voluntary Tuition Drive. As parents we pulled together and raised $20,081 in one week alone, exceeding our goal. What a statement towards parent sup-port of KMES and our belief in what our teachers and staff are providing to our children.” Running this Voluntary Tuition Drive was a group effort including Amber Stariha, Nora Naylor, Jean Newhall, Aida Ober and Christy Walker.

KMES enrichment programs are a partnership between parents and the Mountain commu-nity. 90% of the total enrichment program budget goes to teachers; paying for classroom aides, the science and music teachers, and an intervention specialist. Cookies, face painting, VTD, KMES Spirit wear and other efforts plus an Art Fair Grant (if funds are available), make up the revenue. As Juliette put it, Matching the community support with parent support sends a clear message that we are in it together! It Takes a Mountain" is alive and strong!

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BOY SCOUTS - TROOP 42 HOLIDAY WREATH FUNDRAISER

Troop 42 proudly offers fresh & beautiful 25 inch decorated wreaths with bows to spruce up your home or office. The proceeds of our fundraiser support our annual troop activities and equipment needs. If you would like to purchase a wreath(s) for this holiday season, please complete the form at the bottom and return it to:

CAMERON GERANIOS 123 HUCKLEBERRY TRAIL ~ WOODSIDE, CA 94062 CAMERONGER123@YAHOO.COM ~ 650-851-1343

# LARGE 25” decorated wreath(s) - $25.00 each for a total of $

(Large Red Velvet Ribbon Bow included at no extra cost)

Please make your check payable to: BSA Troop 42

You can mail your order form (below) with check, e-mail your order form and pay when delivered or call to order.

(Keep this portion for your records)

------------------------------------ORDER FORM------------------------------------

Name: Email:

Delivery address:

City: Telephone#

Preferred Delivery Date/Time: (after 11/24)

Special delivery instructions: (leave on porch, etc.)

LARGE 25” Decorated Wreath(s) ~ $25.00 each for a total of $

(Large Red Velvet Ribbon Bow(s) included at no extra cost)

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING BOY SCOUTS - TROOP 42

Editor’s Note: If you are unable to join your neighbors at the Garden Club wreath making on Dec. 2nd, please consider buying your holiday wreaths from our Kings Mountain Boy Scouts. Pre-ordering using the form above is very helpful; however, Cameron will take phone & e-mail orders in December while supplies last. Please include your delivery date preference on the form. The wreaths should be available about November 20th for delivery to your door.

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Everyone is invited to attend this free Garden Club event. No experience is needed. If you do not have a frame, the club will have some for sale at very reasonable prices. If you have greens on your property that would be appropri-ate as the green foundation for your wreath, please bring it along and some for other to share. Our seasoned wreath makers will have plenty of greens and other material for the taking. Many members bring ribbons or other personal items that may adorn their wreath. Acorns, small ornaments, photographs, etc are perfect for creative people, and not so creative people, to make their own holiday wreath. Please join in on the fun. You will not be disappointed!

2

Coffee, tea and spiced cider provided.

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November 2017

by

Marty Eisenberg

A visit to Sonoma County: My daughter has lived and worked in Santa Rosa and surroundings for twenty years, making many friends in the community. The homes of nearly a dozen of her acquaintances were ravaged to ashes by the recent fires. My daughter arranged for many of those friends to come to her home where I spent several hours with them (and with some of their neighbors in like circumstances) talking about the provisions of their homeowner’s insurance policies; how the various coverages operate together, what they need to do to recover what they are enti-tled to receive and what they should expect of their insurers. I came away with two impressions: 1. It was heartening to observe how upbeat nearly all these families were, given their devastating losses. Their comments upon the sub-ject were that they had withstood the “knock-out punch” of losing most all of their possessions but they had their chil-dren, their life partners, their pets and circumstances could really only get better for them in the months ahead. 2. How uninformed they were about the contents of their homeowner’s insurance policy; what it would cover and what it would not. As to the latter observation, it led me to thinking that it may be useful in coming Monthly Musings to bet-ter readers’ understandings of their homeowner’s policies so they can assess the sufficiency of their insurance and take appropriate steps to address any coverage shortfalls.

“Advance Healthcare Directives” for your adult children: Physicians, medical clinics, the AARP and estate plan-ning lawyers have widely promoted and endorsed the need for adults of advancing years to execute an Advance Healthcare Directive (“AHD”) – sometimes also referred to as a “Living Will” or “Healthcare Proxy.” It names and empowers another person to make medical decisions in times and circumstances when one cannot make those deci-sions for himself/herself due to medical circumstances or mental infirmity. Entirely overlooked from endorsement is the importance of having adult children execute an AHD in event of traumatic injury disabling them from making very critical healthcare decisions for themselves. A recent circumstance in my professional engagements greatly empha-sized the subject.

Our children become adults for all purposes at age 18. Then, literally overnight, parents lose voice and authority over their healthcare decisions. In event our children sustain critical injury, while we may hope some distant or unfamiliar trauma center physician or administrator will accept and respect parental decisions and directions for adult children, in the absence of the “child’s” written authorization, that may not happen or delays can occur; time and circumstances fraught with emotion for concerned parents. Situations can be further complicated if the adult child is out of state, pursuing education or employment.

The remedy is not complex. Implore your unmarried adult children to execute an AHD authorizing either/both their parents to make healthcare decisions for them in circumstances when they are unable to do so for themselves. (If they’re married, urge them and their spouses to execute AHDs in favor of one another for all the same reasons.) The California legislature has promulgated a simple, effective form for the purpose. It can be found upon the Califor-nia Attorney General’s website at: https://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/consumers/ProbateCodeAdvancedHealthCareDirectiveForm-fillable.pdf

Question arises whether an out-of-state emergency care provider will accept a “California form.” The answer is “very likely” if your son/daughter remains a resident of California (possessing a California driver’s license or like indi-cia of continuing ties to California). Alternatively your adult child can execute a form approved by the state where he/she attends school or is employed. Virtually every state has approved a basic form for the purpose. AARP has as-sembled the forms by state and made them readily retrievable upon its website. Go to: https://www.aarp.org/home-family/caregiving/free-printable-advance-directives/

Generally, they need to be signed in the presence of two (2) independent witnesses (persons not mentioned in the AHD) or before a notary. California allows either option but medical providers generally prefer the notary acknowl-edgment (because that is what they are most accustomed to seeing). Requirements of other states can be found upon the referenced AARP website. Medical providers will generally accept and respect a photocopy of the signed instrument. Copies should be left with the person(s) nominated to make the medical decisions in time of emergency. This is not a document to be reposed in a safe deposit box rendering it unavailable at time of need.

Thanksgiving is just a few weeks off; a time of gatherings and celebration of family and heritage. It is the perfect opportunity to set aside a time for serious conversation with children about the importance of executing Advance Healthcare Directives and getting the instruments completed and signed that weekend too.

A thought for your Thanksgiving table: “Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” (William Arthur Ward - inspirational columnist, poet and meditations author; 1921-1994)

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November 2017 Kings Mountain Community Calendar

The Kings Mountain Echo is published monthly by the Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Brigade, Inc, a non-profit, volunteer organization. The Editor is Eileen Fredrikson. All opinions are those of the commentator/writer and not those of the publisher. Echo submissions should be emailed to eileenfredrikson@comcast.net Please reference “the Echo” in the subject line. The Echo deadline is the 26th of each month. The editor retains discretion to edit all submissions for space and content.

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NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

PERMIT NO. 621

REDWOOD CITY, CA

Kings Mountain Volunteer Fire Brigade13889 Skyline BlvdWoodside, CA 94062