Former Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer turned a few heads five years ago, when she bought Palo Alto's oldest funeral home, Roller & Hapgood & Tinney.
Now, plans are afoot to convert the building at 980 Middlefield Road into something completely different: a private club that is geared towards female workers and that would offer working spaces, networking events, speaker series, conference rooms, a small gym, a gallery, coffee and snacks.
Dubbed "The Corner House," the new venue's mission would be to "provide a vibrant, welcoming space for traditional and non-traditional professionals to collaborate, work, learn, find support, build community, and spend time with their families, friends and neighbors." According to the application, there would be about 150 members and guests using the site at any given time, though up to 400 people would be expected to show up for special events.
The project would include several exterior modifications to the 1951 building, including a new drop-off area parallel to Addison Avenue, a modified parking area, a new play area and revisions to the exterior facades. Its offerings would include classes in music, performing arts, cooking, professional development, dance and fitness. The facility would also offer "networking events" and "family bonding experiences," according to the application.
There would also be outdoor events with amplified sound, though they would be required to cease operations by 9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and by 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Indoor events would run until midnight, according to the application.
All these activities notwithstanding, the application claims that that it would actually be quieter and cause less traffic than the former funeral home. Having "tens to hundreds of mourners gathering en mass is presumed to have been a greater strain on noise and traffic due to a private event than the facilities (sic) newly suggested model and use," the application states.
The ambitious proposal, however, faces one formidable obstacle: it is illegal under the zoning code. As such, the property owner (officially listed as 980 Middlefield LLC) will need to convince the City Council to change the "planned community" zone that was tailor-made for the 1.6-acre site to accommodate the mortuary use to allow for the new facility. This might be tough sell at a time when parking shortages and traffic congestion remain issues of intense community concern and when Addison Elementary School, which is located right across the street, is undergoing its own remodeling project.
It also doesn't help that the proposed project would reduce on-site parking spaces from 45 to 36. While the applicant states that the facility would "encourage walking, biking, ride-share, carpooling or public transportation" and that off-site lots can be used for large events, city planners noted in the report that even with these measures, "it is not clear that the proposed parking would be sufficient to accommodate the day-to-day use at the site."
The City Council plans to consider (though not vote on) the preliminary plans and offer early feedback at its Sept. 10 meeting. To approve changes to the PC zone, the council would have to find that the project is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan; that other zoning designations (such as general districts or combining districts) are not flexible enough to accommodate the project; and that it would result in "public benefits not otherwise attainable by application."
The application states that the facility will "provide space, time and energy to support professionals on their path to self-defined success while raising thriving families" and that it would "focus on providing a supportive place for working women, especially mothers, as they seek to balance their work and family lives."
Up to now, Mayer's plans for the former mortuary had been a neighborhood mystery. A year after she bought the property, she faced some criticism from neighbors for hosting lavish Halloween parties at the site. One neighbor posted an open letter to her in 2014, asking her to refrain from doing so in the future.
"Your neighbors, your community, your friends have had to deal with some of the saddest and hardest experiences in their lives, in the exact spot where you will now be celebrating," the anonymous letter stated. "Not only is it disrespectful to the memory of our loved ones, it's confusing and upsetting to the community at large who lost their loved ones and grieved there."
Comments
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Aug 30, 2018 at 2:10 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 2:10 pm
[Post removed.]
Registered user
College Terrace
on Aug 30, 2018 at 2:54 pm
Registered user
on Aug 30, 2018 at 2:54 pm
Can you imagine the backlash if someone announced a Men's only club?!
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Aug 30, 2018 at 2:56 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 2:56 pm
I did and my post was removed.
Hoover School
on Aug 30, 2018 at 2:59 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 2:59 pm
@Terrance - Could you imagine the backlash if women were paid the same as men and treated equally in the workplace?
Community Center
on Aug 30, 2018 at 3:04 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 3:04 pm
@Not Terrance, if you can find examples where specific woman are discriminated against in the workplace based on gender, that's illegal and someone with appropriate standing should report to the company's HR dept, the EEOC, and the Cal Dept of Labor.
Differences in pay rate or position do not necessarily amount to discrimination - people need to be treated fairly, which does not mean the same in all cases.
I do find it odd that someone would think the answer to discrimination would be more discrimination. Down that path lies tribalism.
Charleston Gardens
on Aug 30, 2018 at 3:09 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 3:09 pm
Men's only club in the Bay Area?!?
"Can you imagine the backlash"?!?
o. m. g.
(PU club, Olympic, Bohemian, etc..)
Professorville
on Aug 30, 2018 at 3:33 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 3:33 pm
Correct me if I’m wrong but isn’t there a men’s club on Melville Ave between Cowper and Webster, next to the church?
Old Palo Alto
on Aug 30, 2018 at 3:51 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 3:51 pm
For those of you that are opposed to women's clubs, did you know there is another popular women's club in Palo Alto that is more than 100 years old? Here's a newspaper report about it: Web Link
Charleston Gardens
on Aug 30, 2018 at 4:09 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 4:09 pm
For our backlash friends, shall we ban all the Men's Clubs in the Bay Area?
San Francisco
Bankers Club
The Bohemian Club (1872)
The Cercle de l'Union ("the French Club")
The City Club of San Francisco (1930)
The Concordia-Argonaut Club (1864)
The Family (1901)
The Marines Memorial Club (1946)
The Norwegian Club of San Francisco (1898)
The Olympic Club (1860)
The Pacific-Union Club (1852)
The University Club of San Francisco (1890)
The Villa Taverna (1960)
San Jose
The Sainte Claire Club (1895)
The Silicon Valley Athletic Club (1981)
And can someone enlighten me on the status of these?
Palo Alto
The Stanford Faculty Club (1908)
The University Club of Palo Alto (1952)
Let's not get whiplash from our backlash!
Downtown North
on Aug 30, 2018 at 4:15 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 4:15 pm
Identity politics debating aside, we need to strongly object because that corner, neighborhood, and Addison can't accommodate 150 people there on the regular. Any other business requesting to put 150 folks there would get a hard no.
The funeral comparison is pathetic and offensive. The hubris of folks in the tech elite knows no bounds.
Old Palo Alto
on Aug 30, 2018 at 5:08 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 5:08 pm
Average use: 150 people. Special events: 400. Parking spots: 36. Where are all the other cars going to go?
Amplified music until 10 on Friday and Saturday, 9 on other nights. Isn't there an apartment complex next to it with kids? Don't those kids have to do homework, sleep?
It's not zoned for it, it doesn't benefit the community, it hurts the neighborhood. Just say "no".
Crescent Park
on Aug 30, 2018 at 5:21 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 5:21 pm
Is it time to start another chapter in Palo Alto's air of exclusivity?
The creation of Men's/Women's social clubs is really besides the point. Why go somewhere or try to get into someplace where you're not welcome in the first place? Personally speaking, I'd just stay clear & shake my head.
The thought of turning a former mortuary into a social club is kind of creepy in its own right. Then again, the former downtown Gatehouse restaurant/bar was once a funeral parlor as well.
Buildings are getting scarce in PA so one must be creative in their applications.
[Portion removed.]
Midtown
on Aug 30, 2018 at 5:40 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 5:40 pm
[Post removed.]
Community Center
on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:07 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:07 pm
I think the noise would be very disruptive to me. I like the neighborhood to be quiet.
There are many of us that would be bothered by the noise. This will also add to traffic problems.
Barron Park
on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:14 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:14 pm
She owns the property, why not make it a nice Club?
In the past, people were dying to get in there..
Palo Verde
on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:14 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:14 pm
Whether this private social club is for women, men, children, zebras, Martians, or whatever is beside the point, don't get distracted by it. The mortuary previously served the public and this proposal replaces it with something that does not serve the public. A private social club for the elite does not serve the best interests of Palo Alto.
Barron Park
on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:19 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:19 pm
Isn't the Palo Alto Club exclusively Male, Its just around the corner a few blocks away..
Midtown
on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:29 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 6:29 pm
A quote from the article..."A year after she bought the property, she faced some criticism from neighbors for hosting lavish Halloween parties at the site."
This tells us a lot about Ms. Mayer & her approach to doing things.
Midtown
on Aug 30, 2018 at 7:03 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 7:03 pm
[Post removed.]
Midtown
on Aug 30, 2018 at 7:24 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 7:24 pm
The city council should vote down any change of use which is not housing. What has the city council been crying about the past year - "HOUSING". So vote down any change in use zoning, unless it is housing.
Registered user
Duveneck/St. Francis
on Aug 30, 2018 at 7:26 pm
Registered user
on Aug 30, 2018 at 7:26 pm
Being in the middle of a residential neighborhood, this "planned community" should be affordable housing like the adjacent Webster Woods, not a club for wealthy women.
Green Acres
on Aug 30, 2018 at 7:48 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 7:48 pm
[Post removed.]
Registered user
Barron Park
on Aug 30, 2018 at 8:23 pm
Registered user
on Aug 30, 2018 at 8:23 pm
@Gus L.
She was going to use the property for something noble but got buried in the details.
Barron Park
on Aug 30, 2018 at 8:27 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 8:27 pm
It was a grave decision...
Barron Park
on Aug 30, 2018 at 8:37 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 8:37 pm
[Post removed.]
Downtown North
on Aug 30, 2018 at 9:13 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 9:13 pm
I hate to be the one to let her down, but this idea is really dead on arrival. I know she's made a killing, but the competition is stiff if she wants to woo council with donations. The neighbors are spooked, so getting this through would be a massive undertaking. That location is better suited for morning events.
I apologize... that's the best I got.
Professorville
on Aug 30, 2018 at 9:33 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 9:33 pm
Seriously when will the residents and the city of Palo Alto stop allowing billionaires to turn this into their exclusive enclave. The city has lost its way unless of course you live eat and breathe tech. If Ms Meyer really wanted to help the community she would conjoin the space with LucyStern perhaps focusing on mental health and giving the residence a safe place to get help . . .
Crescent Park
on Aug 30, 2018 at 10:56 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 10:56 pm
Palo Alto passed the point of no return some years ago. All you complaing about the tech elite who have taken over your nice community, get over it, it's to late, they don't care about you, never did, and never will. You are in the way. They will laugh at you from their private clubs until every last lot has been scraped and the former greatness of the intellectual, activist progressive community that Palo Alto once was is completely dead and forgotten. This mission is mostly complete. $$$$ rules the culture in PA, watching the soul of a town die is heartbreaking. What used to truly be a unique community has now been reduced to the worst of what capitalism has to offer society. And don't say Stanford isn't complicit. [Portion removed.] If you haven't cashed out your house that is worth 30x what you paid for it in the late 70's what are your waiting for?
Midtown
on Aug 30, 2018 at 11:54 pm
on Aug 30, 2018 at 11:54 pm
My family's long-time dentist was recently forced to move his practice from Middlefield & Forest because his employees could no longer park there. Workers at the medical offices on Middlefield have long parked in the area. But once the city instituted permit parking, the people who serve us but who can't afford to live in or near Palo Alto couldn't park for their work day.Our dentist literally had to uproot & move. Yet the city is willing to consider an application for a private club that will potentially draw dozens to hundreds of cars daily and serve no-one but its paid members. Makes no sense.
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Aug 31, 2018 at 7:26 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 7:26 am
I am not sure that there is a need for something like this whether it is for men or women.
Our community has needs of much more space for residents rather than a magnet space for more people to sit, work, and do nothing to benefit the community or serve our own population.
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Aug 31, 2018 at 7:55 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 7:55 am
[Post removed.]
Charleston Gardens
on Aug 31, 2018 at 7:55 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 7:55 am
Thread started with a vehement tone of 'backlash if someone announced a Men's only club', progressed through the "anti-rich" sentiment phase, and now morphed to NIMBY's.
Okey-dokey.
Downtown North
on Aug 31, 2018 at 7:57 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 7:57 am
I am an average mom with an average job in a non-tech industry. I live in the Addison Elementary neighborhood. I "welcome" the idea to have a meeting, working and social outlet for all women to connect, collaborate and hear multiple perspectives. I hope part of its mission will bridge women of all backgrounds and incomes to help solve our 21st century problems.
Charleston Gardens
on Aug 31, 2018 at 8:22 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 8:22 am
" I "welcome" the idea to have a meeting, working and social outlet for all women to connect, collaborate and hear multiple perspectives. I hope part of its mission will bridge women of all backgrounds and incomes to help solve our 21st century problems."
There are numerous local choices that may apply for you: WIC, NAWBO, Watermark, ASTIA and a couple others that don't come to mind at the moment. A quick search will open up a whole world - however, finding the best for your needs takes a little shoe leather.
... posted at the risk of offending the wee male snowflakes ready to scream: "a woman's business group?!? How sexist!"
(see initial comments above)
Old Palo Alto
on Aug 31, 2018 at 8:56 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 8:56 am
Hilarious. PAO has turned into Reddit.
Barron Park
on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:27 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:27 am
Most of the new people to Palo Alto are only concerned with their financial status. Have to show off their remodeled home with the Tesla, BMW, or Mercedes parked in front. No moral values to help or contribute to the community, help society, help the less fortunate. It's all about themselves, and how they can brag to their relatives how rich they are.
Palo Alto is transitioning into a sterile, soul less town.
Crescent Park
on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:30 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:30 am
Not zoned for it.
Will increase noise.
Will increase traffic.
Next to an elementary school.
No public benefit.
Why are we even talking about this?
Crescent Park
on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:47 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:47 am
QUOTE: Palo Alto passed the point of no return some years ago...$$$$ rules the culture in PA, watching the soul of a town die is heartbreaking. What used to truly be a unique community has now been reduced to the worst of what capitalism has to offer society...If you haven't cashed out your house that is worth 30x what you paid for it in the late 70's what are your waiting for?
Now you've got me thinking, fellow neighbor. Currently exploring other options...just sell the old house in CP & let the newbies define the emerging 'culture' of Palo Alto. At least some of us had an opportunity to
enjoy our residencies here when everyday life wasn't so hectic & superficial.
Where to go next is the question...one neighbor has since moved to Lincoln (Sierra foothills), another to Lahaina (Maui) & my next-door neighbor is considering Sedona, AZ. Ironic that some leave the congestion of PA for the congestion of tourist areas. Maybe it has something to do with getting older & seeking out warmer climates. Personally speaking, I'd just throw on a jacket (if needed).
BTW, burial plots at Alta Mesa Cemetary have also risen considerably so if one chooses to stick around for the last parade, they will also be dealing with increased RE pricings & added congestion. Like Palo Alto, perhaps the only remaining alternative will be to opt for the 'high-rise' alternative of a mausoleum or columbarium. The sales directors can then advertise these units as being 'closer to heaven' (along with other marketing buzz words) as they are essentially RE agents for the deceased. So basically...if you opt to remain in PA, there will be no escaping the existing scenario, dead or alive.
Looking forward (not really) to reading of any gala/fundraising Halloween balls held at the old Roller & Hapgood site. It will like the PA 'Black & White' except that people will get to wear costumes instead of going formal. What fun!
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Aug 31, 2018 at 10:58 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 10:58 am
Will this women's social club be any better neighbor than Cuckoo's Nest on Willow Road in Menlo Park? See Web Link
And will Average Working Addison Mom be able to afford being a member? If the fees are low enough, perhaps too many women will join and the place will be overcrowded.
There needs to be a REAL public benefit for the PC zone. And there needs to be enough parking, so the parking does not spill over into the surrounding neighborhood.
Registered user
College Terrace
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:08 am
Registered user
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:08 am
My thinking on this may be old school, but I rather like that there are some places just for women and some just for men. Sometimes that simply works better. Look at Castilleja. I think there's agreement across the board in this town that Castilleja is an excellent educational institution for young women. A primary reason for that is that it is an all girl's school. It makes sense to me that the benefits of single gender dynamics would also apply to some clubs, particularly those that offer educational opportunities.
There is a men's club in town. There's also a 100+ year old wonderful woman's club in town. The Palo Alto Woman's Club offers much of what Ms. Mayer seeks to provide, including a wonderful concert series. And it is a great venue for a private event. Check it out!
another community
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:14 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:14 am
WOW....PA turning into exclusive community....why not turn it into transitional housing for working homeless who could no longer afford rent.
Menlo Park
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:21 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:21 am
The Olympic Club is no longer men only.
Professorville
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:37 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:37 am
The idea alone of partying in a place where bodies were embalmed and displayed gives me the creeps.
Adobe-Meadow
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:43 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:43 am
That doesn't have a sexist ring to it either.
Lets move forward with this. The Elks club used to not allow women in their bar. Lets get back to those days!
Professorville
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:48 am
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:48 am
Parking and traffic are not going to endear this project to those living nearby. People's nerves already stretched to the limit. Those opposed should make their feelings known to the City as quickly as possible.
Registered user
Crescent Park
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:51 am
Registered user
on Aug 31, 2018 at 11:51 am
[Post removed.]
Crescent Park
on Aug 31, 2018 at 12:25 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 12:25 pm
@Justice is fairness
"@Not Terrance, if you can find examples where specific woman are discriminated against in the workplace based on gender, that's illegal and someone with appropriate standing should report to the company's HR dept, the EEOC, and the Cal Dept of Labor. "
Check the on-going DOJ lawsuit against a few Silicon Valley big names on exactly this...
Registered user
Palo Alto High School
on Aug 31, 2018 at 1:28 pm
Registered user
on Aug 31, 2018 at 1:28 pm
There is a Men's club in Palo Alto :
567 Melville Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301
Downtown North
on Aug 31, 2018 at 3:07 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 3:07 pm
Marissa should be supported, and encouraged!! Women's dignity and gender equality are constantly being buried by society! Palo Alto should vote to allow this old mortuary to transition into a living social club promoting a most needed purpose socially.
- As has been the case across time, CREATIVITY BRINGS RE-BIRTH!
It is a beautiful change and visionary way to add to the value of living in Palo Alto.
And parking problems, zoning issues and jealousy should not be obstacles to making Palo Alto a shining light (with LeanIn and other groups based here) to women's rights in the work place!
WHAT I PLAN:
As a member of the Rotary Club of Palo Alto I will speak of this project expressing my full support to the committee and hope that we might be able to show our support and invite Marissa to speak at our weekly lunch event!
On a personal level I am willing to get signatures (Marissa do have someone contact me please) and/or offer volunteer time.
- Iterate.Live for contact.
Leland Manor/Garland Drive
on Aug 31, 2018 at 3:12 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 3:12 pm
> Hide an unpopular development project behind some politically correct cause.
^^^ This is the strategy behind the proposed project. Palo Altans who are adamantly against this development/facility usage should actively & vociferously convey their opposition to the City of Palo Alto council members, holding them personally & individually responsible in the event Ms. Mayer's proposal passes.
There are far better uses for this property. Residents with short memories may have forgotten (or overlooked) the last PACC-approved mortuary project at 744 San Antonio Road where the site of the former Bishop-Jordan Mortuary will now become home to a Marriott's Hotel creating even further gridlock along that particular strip of thoroughfare. To hell with the needs of Google & the likes.
In this particular case, the former Roller & Hapgood site has simply become a disposable toy for Ms. Mayer's egocentric leanings & self-serving intentions.
With all of her disposable resources, maybe consider tearing down the place & creating 'not-for-profit' affordable housing? She could even call it Mayer Gardens (or some other name of her choosing). Leaving a legacy of community involvement & devotion to the needs of others would carry far more humanistic weight + generate a lot more public admiration & interest than what's she's currently got planned.
Just a thought...chances are, she will probably get her exclusive women's business club approved as passing the measure will allow our local representatives yet another opportunity to hobnob with the rich & influential.
Simply put, another photo-op & gala invitation.
Registered user
Crescent Park
on Aug 31, 2018 at 3:21 pm
Registered user
on Aug 31, 2018 at 3:21 pm
Too bad the weekly, like so many respondents, judge negatively in advance before the benefit of public hearings.
East Palo Alto
on Aug 31, 2018 at 3:26 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 3:26 pm
Stanford also has a women-only club. Of course, it lacks the distinction of being a former mortuary.
Barron Park
on Aug 31, 2018 at 4:32 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 4:32 pm
[Post removed.]
Downtown North
on Aug 31, 2018 at 4:42 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 4:42 pm
"Too bad the weekly, like so many respondents, judge negatively in advance before the benefit of public hearings."
Puppies nipping at the big dog's heels.
Registered user
Embarcadero Oaks/Leland
on Aug 31, 2018 at 4:44 pm
Registered user
on Aug 31, 2018 at 4:44 pm
[Post removed.]
Professorville
on Aug 31, 2018 at 5:01 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 5:01 pm
These comments are incredible. Culture of Outrage on all sides!
Let's consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to live in such a wonderful place that the biggest issues we face are as trivial and inconsequential as what to do with ONE property among thousands and thousands of acres.
I would ask all of you, on all sides, to consider the big picture [portion removed.]
Fairmeadow
on Aug 31, 2018 at 5:01 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 5:01 pm
Rezidentura:
Both the University Club and the Stanford Faculty Club allow women.
The Banker's Club of San Francisco has been closed for years. Web Link
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Aug 31, 2018 at 5:12 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 5:12 pm
Well, all the comments have been made - boy, Marissa, did you hit a nerve. No, Marissa, we don't do private clubs in Palo Alto that cater to provide " a vibrant, wlecoming space for traditional and non-traditional professionals to..................... There's already one and it's called the Palo Alto Country Club. Yes, not quite identical, but one exclusive club is enough. I don't know if you live in PA, but if you do, you certainly do not understand what makes this city tick. And, it's not the type of "welcoming space" that you're envisioning. Your vision screams "exclusionary" all over the place. The University Club is a few blocks over. Ask them if you can rent it. Or, ask Stanford; they're always ready to rent out the Faculty Club for specific events. You have bitten off way more than you can chew, as the saying goes.
Downtown North
on Aug 31, 2018 at 5:51 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 5:51 pm
> Marissa should be supported, and encouraged!!
>> It is a beautiful change and visionary way to add to the value of living in Palo Alto.
>>> I will speak of this project expressing my full support.
>>> On a personal level I am willing to get signatures (Marissa do have someone contact me please) and/or offer volunteer time.
Seriously? No comment.
University South
on Aug 31, 2018 at 5:51 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 5:51 pm
Webster street- yes the negative responses to another click bait story from the weekly are definitely indicative of what this city wants. Remember the more the story excites the small number of loyal TSF posters, the more reads of the comments and the moe money the weekly makes.
Let's wait until the council comments on this and asks questions about it before we're jump to conclusions.
Downtown North
on Aug 31, 2018 at 6:02 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 6:02 pm
From an article in today's Daily Post regarding this venture:
"Specifically, Mayer wants to cater to working women, especially mothers, seeking balance between work and family."
----------
Very interesting in light of the fact that as Yahoo CEO, Ms. Mayer was infamous for banning telecommuting and instituting other policies to discourage work-life balance.
Old Palo Alto
on Aug 31, 2018 at 6:29 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 6:29 pm
Reading the comments so far, I can't help thinking how different the comments would be if the developer was Arrillaga. His idea of charitable works is mostly to support sports and athletics (and put his name bigly on the building). Of course, women are supposed to carry society's virtues like this, from "Where does" above:
>With all of her disposable resources, maybe consider tearing down the place & creating 'not-for-profit' affordable housing? She could even call it Mayer Gardens (or some other name of her choosing).
Barron Park
on Aug 31, 2018 at 7:46 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 7:46 pm
[Post removed.]
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:42 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:42 pm
[Post removed.]
Duveneck/St. Francis
on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:53 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 9:53 pm
Traffic and parking problems will be a burden to all the Palo Altans who aren’t members. I don’t think this is a good proposal, but in our pseduo celebrity culture I guess it will get approved. Need those selfies there!
Addison School
on Aug 31, 2018 at 10:00 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 10:00 pm
I think this is a great idea. It empowers women, offers a place for support, learning, and nurturing the mind body and sole. I read the article a few times to obsorb the content. From what I am reading; it sounds like it would be " a womens club" but still include the "family." if there is a male in your "family," Im sure he would be welcomed. I dont think there is going to be a bouncer at the door kicking the male species out, its a place thats main focus is empowerment of people. Marissa-I live in the neigborhood, very close to this location. Go for it..and Ill be knocking on the door to volunteer, colaberate and join in on a new chapter in palo alto. Im in.
Downtown North
on Aug 31, 2018 at 10:43 pm
on Aug 31, 2018 at 10:43 pm
The article does not say that it will be exclusive you negative people all just assume so? In fact the way I read it, it would be the opposite. I think it sounds like a nice idea and she can throw in underground parking. I live in the neighborhood and I think it sounds like a great idea. So many people on this site are just negative about absolutely everything. It must be rough going through life like that.
Registered user
College Terrace
on Sep 1, 2018 at 12:54 am
Registered user
on Sep 1, 2018 at 12:54 am
Too bad the city banned marijuana dispensaries. I can see an upscale, posh, and pricy dispensary complete with a very trendy imbibing lounge. Oh, and women only.
Evergreen Park
on Sep 1, 2018 at 8:48 am
on Sep 1, 2018 at 8:48 am
Doesn't Addison school still have a number of prefab "temporary" structures????
maybe she could donate the property to the PAUSD to expand Addison school?!?
Crescent Park
on Sep 1, 2018 at 9:28 am
on Sep 1, 2018 at 9:28 am
QUOTE: Too bad the city banned marijuana dispensaries. I can see an upscale, posh, and pricy dispensary complete with a very trendy imbibing lounge.
It won't happen in Palo Alto. Though many residents in upscale communities voted in favor of legalized medical/recreational pot, the majority of them do not want to have dispensaries in their own towns due to the problematic sales element (i.e. numbers of outside customers coming in to buy marijuana, potential cash crimes, public & road-related inebriation etc.).
You'll see these sales ordinances/constraints existing in both Marin County and Santa Clara County. For example, while some folks in Mill Valley, Ross, Tiburon et al may enjoy smoking pot, the majority of the storefront pot dispensaries are in other places like Larkspur or San Rafael. The goes same for Santa Clara County...you won't find pot shops in Saratoga, Los Altos or Palo Alto but rather in cities like Santa Clara & San Jose. These same restrictions also occur in San Mateo County as well (e.g. pot shops in Redwood City & San Mateo rather than in the more affluent towns like Menlo Park, Atherton, Hillsborough, Woodside etc.).
About the only way to conceal a pot dispensary in an upscale community is to operate a private delivery service.
Bottom line...upscale tokers don't want to create or promote what they perceive as a 'dirt bag' element in their respective neighborhoods & towns.
Registered user
Palo Verde
on Sep 1, 2018 at 9:52 am
Registered user
on Sep 1, 2018 at 9:52 am
"R. Davis", the reason marijuana dens don't exist in Palo Alto and other small towns has nothing to do with the vast conspiracy you propose. PAPD is a small police department and does not have the resources necessary to protect the community from problems that will inevitably occur when you start selling millions of dollars of schedule 1 narcotics in the middle of town.
Registered user
Downtown North
on Sep 1, 2018 at 9:53 am
Registered user
on Sep 1, 2018 at 9:53 am
I love Anon's suggestion! Gifting the property to Addison School for expansion would truly be a community benefit.
Registered user
Downtown North
on Sep 1, 2018 at 10:39 am
Registered user
on Sep 1, 2018 at 10:39 am
[Post removed.]
another community
on Sep 1, 2018 at 2:09 pm
on Sep 1, 2018 at 2:09 pm
>It won't happen in Palo Alto. Though many residents in upscale communities voted in favor of legalized medical/recreational pot, the majority of them do not want to have dispensaries in their own towns due to the problematic sales element (i.e. numbers of outside customers coming in to buy marijuana, potential cash crimes, public & road-related inebriation etc.).
>>"R. Davis", the reason marijuana dens don't exist in Palo Alto and other small towns has nothing to do with the vast conspiracy you propose. PAPD is a small police department and does not have the resources necessary to protect the community from problems that will inevitably occur when you start selling millions of dollars of schedule 1 narcotics in the middle of town.
Both posts sound similar to me...potential problems arising along with a lack of manpower for police enforcement. Hardly a conspiracy. Just overall preferences on the part of certain communities.
BTW, many folks (except for maybe the DEA & Sessions) hardly think of pot as a Schedule 1 narcotic anymore...thus the legalization measures.
Registered user
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 1, 2018 at 2:34 pm
Registered user
on Sep 1, 2018 at 2:34 pm
I realize there are pressing issues in this world and people can think of many ideas from expanding the public schools, to mitigation of traffic.
But it’s the owner who invested in that property (not us) and what the owner wants counts. It seems to me she thought of what would satisfy her interests *and* appeal to the community. What she came up with is not bad at all.
I think the concept fits with the social emotional development topic that the schools and families seek as support; having access to education programs, inspiration helps everyone.
The owner and joiners will likey be investing in the community as the project develops and grows, it’s a win-win.
Thanks Ms Mayer, I like this idea.
Duveneck/St. Francis
on Sep 1, 2018 at 5:57 pm
on Sep 1, 2018 at 5:57 pm
[Post removed.]
Barron Park
on Sep 1, 2018 at 6:30 pm
on Sep 1, 2018 at 6:30 pm
This will be a convenient meeting spot for Friends of Marisa. Sorry @average working mom, you and I will not be invited to rub elbows with them. Zuckerberg was disallowed from forming a “compound” around his home, this should be no different. Our billionaires have none of the civic mindedness of those who formed the Los Altos Commnity Fndn.
Registered user
Embarcadero Oaks/Leland
on Sep 1, 2018 at 6:30 pm
Registered user
on Sep 1, 2018 at 6:30 pm
Nothing wrong with a club that empowers women, even if only very successful women would be bale to afford it. However, unless Mayer can provide onsite parking for every single member so not one visitor has to park on residential streets, her application should be denied.
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 1, 2018 at 7:25 pm
on Sep 1, 2018 at 7:25 pm
[Post removed.]
Old Palo Alto
on Sep 1, 2018 at 7:48 pm
on Sep 1, 2018 at 7:48 pm
Well now we know who the Addison donor is.
Anyway this is a completely ghoulish idea. One of my relatives was handled in that mortuary (as is true for a lot of us in Palo Alto) and I will NEVER go into a function there. Bad memories. Why doesn't she tear it down and build something new.
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 1, 2018 at 10:35 pm
on Sep 1, 2018 at 10:35 pm
Ta DA - you're right - a lot of us have had loved ones there. I wouldn't be caught dead there once it's a private club.
Old Palo Alto
on Sep 2, 2018 at 8:21 am
on Sep 2, 2018 at 8:21 am
Why do rich people get to change the zoning of Palo Alto? It makes the rest of us into suckers.
College Terrace
on Sep 2, 2018 at 8:50 am
on Sep 2, 2018 at 8:50 am
> Why do rich people get to change the zoning of Palo Alto? It makes the rest of us into suckers.
"That's just the way it is. Some things will never change."
...from 'The Way It Is' by Bruce Hornsby and the Range (1986)
Registered user
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 2, 2018 at 9:45 am
Registered user
on Sep 2, 2018 at 9:45 am
Zoning and Another day in PA,
Do you own property in Palo Alto?
If you vote, you influence zoning through city government. If you really cared you also could have influenced traffic issues before this last minute oh no we have traffic! gasp and horror going on.
I recall being on these threads back when the Arrillaga 27 Universiy controversy was going 5-6 years ago? I suggested in a post to have shuttles from 280 and 101 and most insisted there were no traffic issues. Where were all the concerned people when it mattered to plan for traffic mitigations for an obvious growing city and where will you be this coming election?
I was more in favor of a moratorium on office square footage but Palo Alto voted for a camp that all they care about is growing with no attention to costs to neighbors. With companies as the influencers, the community only sees the costs of more and more office space.
Anyway, by definition no matter what year you bought you had to be rich. It’s never been cheap to own in Palo Alto. Rich people vote here and are influencers.
Traffic and woefully insufficient infrastructure aside for the regional growth, seems to me Palo Altans have created a beautiful town and that’s likely because the priorities have been things like parks, open space, neighborhood schools, safety.
Clearly during school hours Meyer’s club needs to be closed to car traffic. Even if fully parked, adding traffic to Addison is a no-no-no.
But what if’s something like Lucy Stern? How bothered are the Lucy Stern neighbors?
Having something that adds to community activities is good and hating rich people doesn’t change the fact that the community needs continued investing as opposed to growing office space.
Barron Park
on Sep 2, 2018 at 12:18 pm
on Sep 2, 2018 at 12:18 pm
@I support,
My issues with many of your statements aside, I agree with you that this community needs continued investment not more offices, but this step by Mayer will not be a community space, it will be another way Mayer and PA billionaires insulate themselves INSTEAD OF investing in their “home community”.
Registered user
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 2, 2018 at 1:09 pm
Registered user
on Sep 2, 2018 at 1:09 pm
Realist,
When you look at what is promised and what is actually delivered by projects with purported community benefits I agree it looks like a dud.
The “grow grow grow” Council, and developers running city politics (any news on the Kniss election probe?) has definitely blown trust.
It doesn’t look to me that only billionaire women can benefit here. But if there is a lot of push back I understand that weighing what benefits the “home community” matters.
Community Center
on Sep 2, 2018 at 1:18 pm
on Sep 2, 2018 at 1:18 pm
From the old Helen Reddy song but with a one word change in the lyrics.
"I am woman. Hear me roar with MONEY too big to ignore..."
Karaoke time in PA.
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 2, 2018 at 1:24 pm
on Sep 2, 2018 at 1:24 pm
If this women's club (which I don't think fills a need - but that's just me) is for Palo Alto residents only, has a membership fee that is affordable for a single parent on a fixed income, includes affordable childcare for the time the mother is working at the site and the social activities are for members and their guests only as long as they carpool, it may work. However, as many have stated above, this is a perk for wealthy high powered executives to network and make contact, then I think we are in for something that will ultimately not serve our community and will be a destination for out of town traffic.
Charleston Gardens
on Sep 2, 2018 at 1:35 pm
on Sep 2, 2018 at 1:35 pm
@resident: your first posts were about your view of sexism and your being against the freedom of association.
Now you are against a capitalist being able to create a business - you want to force carpooling and childcare on businesses in Palo Alto?
I was unaware of your conversion to Social Democracy.
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 2, 2018 at 2:00 pm
on Sep 2, 2018 at 2:00 pm
Haha, yes. I see where you are coming from.
My first posts were definitely along the lines of first impressions. I just can't see why a place for women to network as opposed to a place for people to network is necessary.
With a more thoughtful approach, I feel that a place to network for busy execs is unnecessary in an area where we have so little community space and so much traffic. This town has lost many affordable family restaurants, lost a bowling alley and other amenities all for the sake of allowing more people to live and work in a crowded area. As I said, if there is a need for Palo Altans to have such a place (which I am not really sure there is) then it should be something that can benefit the community at large.
I am not against capitalists creating a business, but I do question a business being created right beside a school in a residential neighborhood, particularly if it is not something that the neighborhood can use themselves.
Registered user
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 2, 2018 at 2:25 pm
Registered user
on Sep 2, 2018 at 2:25 pm
Resident,
“If this women's club (which I don't think fills a need - but that's just me) is for Palo Alto residents only, has a membership fee that is affordable for a single parent on a fixed income, includes affordable childcare for the time the mother is working at the site and the social activities are for members and their guests only as long as they carpool, it may work.”
This sounds familiar, searched Weekly article, it’s Deborah’s Palm on Lytton Ave
“Deborah's Palm helps local women feel connected, valued, empowered
Community center serves as resource, meeting place for women from Palo Alto and beyond”
As many have pointed out, long history and more availability of men’s clubs who by the way are for rich men.
I think empowering and inspiring women and even rich women can serve all but if they are only billionaires from Woodside then it would be not worth it. Maybe a benefit to the home community could be if membership is mostly for women and single women who have children in Palo Alto public schools? Or who live in the vicinity.
Community Center
on Sep 2, 2018 at 2:50 pm
on Sep 2, 2018 at 2:50 pm
> However, unless Mayer can provide onsite parking for every single member so not one visitor has to park on residential streets, her application should be denied.
Simple solution. Valet parking for its highly exclusive & affluent members.
The parking service will create additional jobs in Palo Alto & effectively transfer the automotive clutter from one specific area to other scattered parts of town.
>>However, as many have stated above, this is a perk for wealthy high powered executives to network and make contact,
Of course. With great wealth comes a certain sense of privilege. Why else would people everywhere (around the temporal world) strive to be rich?
>>>Anyway this is a completely ghoulish idea.
Well, the original article did state that..."A year after she bought the property, she faced some criticism from neighbors for hosting lavish Halloween parties at the site."
>>>>Marissa should be supported, and encouraged!! Women's dignity and gender equality are constantly being buried by society!
While this opening statement will appeal to many readers (purely on a surface level), it's more along the lines of a cliched anthem.
>>>>>It is a beautiful change and visionary way to add to the value of living in Palo Alto.
Sounds more like a PA residential real estate ad.
Crescent Park
on Sep 2, 2018 at 5:29 pm
on Sep 2, 2018 at 5:29 pm
In light of the other thread pertaining to EPA truancy, why not turn this site into a tutoring center & mentorship program for students with disadvantaged backgrounds?
I imagine that a shuttle service could easily be established & the program wouldn't necessarily have to be limited to those from EPA.
Ms. Mayer has an opportunity to do something really creative & rewarding for both Palo Alto & its surrounding communities. Something that can impact the future in a positive way.
To run with her current objectives seems kind of elitist & cold-shouldered to the harsh realities of the real world.
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2018 at 8:37 am
on Sep 3, 2018 at 8:37 am
Countless women have made successful careers in vocational fields that were once male-dominated (e.g. law, medicine, real estate, marketing & advertising to name a few).
One area where they have yet to make a major impact is in the funereal business.
It is a highly profitable business and as a successful mortician who had attended countless industry trade shows and conventions, I've always noticed that there are relatively few women in attendance. The last time I counted only seven out of a gathering of roughly 300 attendees.
While some might opine that mortuaries are primarily family-operated, handed-down businesses and/or that women are being discriminated against in this field, I've encountered very few women who have expressed a genuine interest in becoming an undertaker. Why is that?
The closure of Roller & Hapgood & Tinney has created a funereal void in Palo Alto as they have always had a 'corner' on the local market. Now people must go outside of town (with the possible exception of Alta Mesa Cemetary) for their funereal needs & celebrations of life.
I would like to see another funeral parlor in Palo Alto but one owned and operated by visionary women professionals who share the keen business acumen of Ms. Mayer. The building is still there and the prep rooms remain intact. The facility could also serve as a post-graduate training center for those who have recently completed mortician's school and location is conveniently accessable.
While an exclusive businesswoman's club remains the current objective, an active and highly-profitable local mortuary (owned and operated by a group of successful women undertakers) would serve the community to a far larger extent and possibly showcase another viable professional opportunity for women in general.
Registered user
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2018 at 10:11 am
Registered user
on Sep 3, 2018 at 10:11 am
Has this person who paid millions to own this corner asking what we all want her to do with it?
East Palo Alto’s truancy issues, tutoring college readiness, equity, and should she fund that all by herself?
Here’s a thought. Supports for EPA kids could come from supporting the mothers. Parent education can have ongoing and lasting effects and there is very little investment in that. These mothers likely work all day, they have no parent coaching to support their kids but what if they could rely on a program at Meyer’s house. And what if EPA moms got career coaching from the high powered women, how to advance in their jobs, open a small business, etc.
But since we’re all giving Meyer our wish list for her personal property instead of a mortuary run by women how about using those treatment rooms for a spa for women only. With a swimming pool. The pool could be occasionally used by Addison or neighborhood swimmers. We really need an extra pool in the area and we have a lot of women swimmers.
Esther Clark Park
on Sep 3, 2018 at 10:17 am
on Sep 3, 2018 at 10:17 am
No worry, this club opens to all.
In California now, one can declare oneself as female (XX), male (XY),... anytime legally.
If rejected by the club, one can sue for damage until Marissa has any money left.
Duveneck/St. Francis
on Sep 3, 2018 at 1:45 pm
on Sep 3, 2018 at 1:45 pm
>...how about using those treatment rooms for a spa for women only. With a swimming pool. The pool could be occasionally used by Addison or neighborhood swimmers. We really need an extra pool in the area and we have a lot of women swimmers.
Sounds exclusionary. Is that what you really want?
A learning center (or even another mortuary) would make better use of the existing facilities IMO.
Registered user
Another Palo Alto neighborhood
on Sep 3, 2018 at 3:07 pm
Registered user
on Sep 3, 2018 at 3:07 pm
What about the exclusive men’s club in Old Palo Alto? Large property.
Sounds like zoning works for exclusive use of the property in a residential neighborhood - exclusive may be her right.
The problem ssems to be her interest in supporting women through various programs (raising traffic and parking issues) and neither women or parking seem to be palatable topics on this forum.
In my opinion that is a lost opportunity to support familes, youth and children and at a time of bot relationships and Alexa as everyone’s best friend.
I think it’s a jewel of an idea and will be interested in more details to lend support.
Professorville
on Sep 3, 2018 at 10:03 pm
on Sep 3, 2018 at 10:03 pm
Please take your club somewhere else MM.
another community
on Sep 4, 2018 at 9:39 am
on Sep 4, 2018 at 9:39 am
> Most of the new people to Palo Alto are only concerned with their financial status. Have to show off their remodeled home with the Tesla, BMW, or Mercedes parked in front. No moral values to help or contribute to the community, help society, help the less fortunate. It's all about themselves, and how they can brag to their relatives how rich they are.
Ain't that the truth...and in so many instances. The Stanford Shopping Center experience along with the downtown Palo Alto dining scene are obvious indicators of the prevalent Palo Alto culture and its perceived values.
The social club as proposed by M. Mayer is just another extension of Palo Alto's continuing devotion to elitism.
Have fun.
College Terrace
on Sep 4, 2018 at 1:51 pm
on Sep 4, 2018 at 1:51 pm
[Post removed.]
another community
on Sep 4, 2018 at 2:41 pm
on Sep 4, 2018 at 2:41 pm
>>>an active and highly-profitable local mortuary (owned and operated by a group of successful women undertakers) would serve the community to a far larger extent and possibly showcase another viable professional opportunity for women in general.
This vocational practice is far more prevalent in the southeastern United States where many owners/operators of mortuaries are successful businesswomen and for some unexplained reason, primarily of African-American descent.
In many ways, women are better suited than men for this profession in that they tend to convey a more sincere sense of compassion towards the bereaved and they are usually better skilled in the cosmetic preparations of the deceased.
I once had to reprimand & have a male associate redo a casket presentation...he had put shocking red lipstick on a 95 year-old woman & her wig was on backwards with the inside tag showing. Chances are, a mature woman responsible for this final presentation would have been far more conscientious and detail-oriented.
There is a viable potential & future for female funeral directors. Once they have mastered the basic preparatory procedures, the rest is marketing.
And countless women have extremely good marketing skills. We've seen it in other professions.
It's an industry where one will always have a steady business & there are few economic downturns. Can you say the same about high-tech & manufacturing?
another community
on Sep 4, 2018 at 5:43 pm
on Sep 4, 2018 at 5:43 pm
Trying to think here...about the only area where a sizable number of men have taken on traditional women's occupations might be as flight attendants & nurses.
Usually it's the other way around...with women now assuming many traditional men's jobs.
A female mortician wouldn't be such a big deal. Curious as to why there aren't that many with the exception of SE USA.
Stanford
on Sep 4, 2018 at 8:22 pm
on Sep 4, 2018 at 8:22 pm
We support Marissa 100%, but...
...we urge the structure to have underground parking, demolish the property if needed and build new.
...do not exclude men
...give priority to startups
Duveneck/St. Francis
on Sep 4, 2018 at 10:15 pm
on Sep 4, 2018 at 10:15 pm
How about turning the chapel into a hostel for visitors from abroad (or even a homeless shelter)? Just fill it with bunk beds and then convert the remaining rooms to a small kitchen, dining area and perhaps a reading room. Add some shower facilities and now you've got a facility that will serve anyone who needs an inexpensive and safe place to spend the night.
Since most hostel-bound guests travel light and don't rely on cars (including the homeless) parking would not be a problem for concerned neighbors in the surrounding area.
The Middlefield Road site also provides ease of access and is a convenient connector route for coming and going via public transportation.
Registered user
Crescent Park
on Sep 5, 2018 at 8:52 am
Registered user
on Sep 5, 2018 at 8:52 am
While a homeless shelter at the former Roller & Hapgood site would be a noteworthy humanitarian gesture, some potential problems arise in terms of which homeless individuals to accept & which ones to turn away.
The screening/intake process would be critical from the standpoint of not adding to the disruption of the immediate neighborhood while ensuring the safety of its residents. The homeless with drug/alcohol addictions and/or severe mental issues would pose an immediate concern. Additionally, there would have to be some sort of separation of quarters for men & women + night supervision.
Vagrancy would pose another potential problem & I suspect that many Addison residents would take issue with that. Chances are that the PAPD would be spending a lot time in the neighborhood addressing various complaints.
This is a classic good intentions but NIMBY sort of issue.
another community
on Sep 5, 2018 at 3:04 pm
on Sep 5, 2018 at 3:04 pm
>> A female mortician wouldn't be such a big deal. Curious as to why there aren't that many with the exception of SE USA.
In many parts of the world, the handling of dead bodies is considered a lower caste/class occupation. The same can be said of butchers and meat handlers.
The only exception might be in western countries where being a mortician is often a highly profitable business. Laws governing the proper disposal of dead bodies and public health mandates also serve as occupational advantages in that the necessary procedures require specialized training and licensing. These are generally not key factors (or considerations) in the more underdeveloped regions of the world.
I would imagine that female African-American morticians do well in the SE portion of the US because the race card isn't being played (as often) when one is relying on them to provide a key service during a time of mourning and remembrance.
Ironic being the South and more power to these successful businesswomen. I've only known of a couple of white female morticians and they got into the field because it was a family business.
BTW/FYI, these two women morticians make far more money than some of the upper-echelon Google employees.
Midtown
on Sep 5, 2018 at 5:35 pm
on Sep 5, 2018 at 5:35 pm
...BTW/FYI, these two women morticians make far more money than some of the upper-echelon Google employees.
Cool. But the thought of working on dead bodies day in and day out kind of creeps me out.
Old Palo Alto
on Sep 5, 2018 at 7:42 pm
on Sep 5, 2018 at 7:42 pm
This would be a wonderful site for small low income housing units for city employees who could walk to work.
I urge the PA Council to not support such an exclusive use of this small parcel of potential housing, next to
a school and other mixed housing. NO EXCLUSIONARY club!
College Terrace
on Sep 6, 2018 at 7:16 am
on Sep 6, 2018 at 7:16 am
We may all have preferences for how a property is developed but I think it important to keep in mind that it is not smart to erode ownership rights. That it is not in our best interest.
Barron Park
on Sep 6, 2018 at 8:58 am
on Sep 6, 2018 at 8:58 am
Will Transgenders and those who Identify themselves as Female be allowed to join this club?
Community Center
on Sep 6, 2018 at 10:06 am
on Sep 6, 2018 at 10:06 am
"Anyway this is a completely ghoulish idea. One of my relatives was handled in that mortuary (as is true for a lot of us in Palo Alto) and I will NEVER go into a function there. Bad memories. Why doesn't she tear it down and build something new."
Agreed. If moving forward with this proposed women's club, an entirely new building should be considered as remnants and memories of the existing facility (along with its former usage) will always remain intact to a certain extent.
For those who recall the now-defunct Gatehouse restaurant/bar on Lytton Avenue, the main dining area was where previous funerals were held and a waiter once mentioned that the wine cellar was located downstairs where the morticians used to store the deceased prior to embalming because of its ideal temperatures. Needless to say, I've only dined there once & the building went through a series of different restaurant operations...perhaps cursed?
With all of her money and various connections, Ms. Mayer can probably afford to erect a new building at the site of the former mortuary...unless she is also planning to use it for future gala Halloween parties with an appropriate theme.
Embarcadero Oaks/Leland
on Sep 6, 2018 at 2:42 pm
on Sep 6, 2018 at 2:42 pm
Chinese cultural center much better idea as many now live in Palo Alto. More planning to relocate here.
A gathering place for social activities and weddings.
Community Center
on Sep 7, 2018 at 6:07 pm
on Sep 7, 2018 at 6:07 pm
> Chinese cultural center much better idea as many now live in Palo Alto. More planning to relocate here.
The future of Palo Alto?
Downtown North
on Oct 2, 2018 at 12:07 pm
on Oct 2, 2018 at 12:07 pm
Woman’s Club of Palo Alto - One already exists.
[Portion removed.]
Please revert the land to zoning for housing.
another community
on Oct 2, 2018 at 2:35 pm
on Oct 2, 2018 at 2:35 pm
Unfortunately,These comments seem to be highly edited.
Palo Verde
on Oct 2, 2018 at 2:49 pm
on Oct 2, 2018 at 2:49 pm
Curious how many deceased individuals have been serviced at Roller and Hapgood?
Must be in the tens of thousands.
All of their eyes will be on Ms. Mayer and her exclusive gathering of women members.
Old Palo Alto
on Oct 2, 2018 at 5:59 pm
on Oct 2, 2018 at 5:59 pm
On my 21st birthday I was supposed to meet up with a friend of mine. He got into a vehicle accident and passed away that day. His service was held at Roller Hapgood & Tinney. Is their anything sacred anymore?