Los Gatan March 6 2024

CANDIDATES SCRAMBLE TO PRIMARY FINISH LINE

Prospective officeholders

vying to replace Eshoo reflect on 16th District contest

Drew Penner, Editor Electoral candidates across the region worked to get out the vote yesterday, during Super Tuesday, as the political landscape narrowed dramatically.

Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian, who is battling it out with high-profile opponents like former San Jose mayor Sam Liccardo and Assemblymember Evan Low, among others, for Congresswoman Anna Eshoo’s 16th District seat, said he’s been hearing plenty from voters about their concerns and fears.

“I think there’s a real anxiety out there about the state of our democracy,” he said. “And what I heard was reinforcement for my message that we need to fix the broken system.”

More than 90 percent of votes were cast by mail over the past month, and election officials will be counting votes until the March 12 deadline.

➝ Election, 8

Wildcats seek first CCS title since 2009

Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor

The Los Gatos High baseball team is one of the handful of public school squads in the Central Coast Section that is capable of beating the powerhouse West Catholic Athletic League programs that typically dominate the top playoff Open Division. This season should be no exception. In coach Mike Minkel’s words, Los Gatos has a “plethora” of talent at every position, enough to hold intrasquad games where the “starters” go against the “backups.”

➝ Baseball, 9

Anthony Andrews, seen here closing out the Wildcats’ 4-3 non-league win over Pioneer High

Jonathan Natividad

“We were searching for a house to buy in the Saratoga area, and we found Kim through reference. We were very impressed with her professionalism. Kim is super energetic, helped us look through many houses, and is very knowledgeable on what to look out for. After 8 months of searching, we finally landed our dream house. It is a very challenging process given the current market condition, but we are lucky to have Kim and her team on our side to help us go through it. What’s more, after the house is closed, we are still getting help from Kim’s team on the projects to be done for the house, as I know she will always be there to help when needed.”

- The Wangs | Buyers

500 words.

CORRECTIONS

We strive to avoid errors in news and ads. Mistakes sometimes occur. To report errors, call or email; corrections will appear in the next edition and online.

WHO WE ARE

Los Gatan is published Wednesdays by Weeklys. Contents copyright ©2024. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form prohibited without written permission.

REAL ESTATE ADVERTISING

All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based upon race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, familial status or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Publisher will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis.

LIVE OAK RECEIVES 35K GRANT

The Los Gatos Foundation for Older Adults to Thrive announced Feb. 29 a $35,000 grant to the Live Oak Senior Nutrition Center to address a shortfall in funding for senior meals in Los Gatos.

The grant came from the Successful Solutions & Community Consulting (SASCC) organization, to avert a crisis in providing hot meals to seniors at the Los Gatos Live Oak Senior Nutrition Center.

“We are so excited that through this grant meals can continue to be provided five days a week for seniors in need,” said Tom Picraux, board president, in a release.

The organization notes food insecurity has greatly increased since the pandemic.

Santa Clara County funding for the meals program covers 53 meals per day, whereas Live Oak is serving an average of 80 meals each day. This grant addresses the current crisis to allow time needed for a long-term solution.

The Foundation says it will collaborate with SASCC and Live Oak Senior Nutrition to develop sustainable funding for the meal program for seniors.

“So many seniors have shared touching stories about how these meals and the opportunity for socialization have helped lift them out of depression,” Live Oak Senior Nutrition director, Kathy Mlinarich said. “Several say that this program has, quite literally, saved their lives. For too many, this is the only substantial meal they receive all day.”

"Ensuring the well-being of our older adults requires a collective effort and sustained investment in essential programs. We hope local jurisdictions and service providers can continue to collaborate to keep this important service thriving well into the future", said Tylor Taylor, executive director of SASCC.

The Foundation is delighted to be able to collaborate with SASCC in supporting the urgent need to address the shortfall in meals for seniors in the greater Los Gatos area.

Los Gatos Kiwanis Club held a Holiday Market in December to raise awareness and funds for Live Oak Senior Nutrition Center, collecting $5,000 for the facility.

In addition, the service club was able to donate $2,000 to Los Gatos High School senior Kyle Santoro for his documentary "Fentanyl High" (bringing the total generated for the film to $5,000).

LOCAL SCENE

HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT HIRES BUSINESS SERVICES ASSISTANT

The Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District has named Ruben Fernandez its new assistant superintendent of business services—to start on April Fool’s Day.

He will oversee the district’s budget and fiscal services, technology, food services, facilities, maintenance, and operations.

In his current role at the Walnut Creek School District, Fernandez has managed financial and business services across schools and district departments, rolled-out budgetary practices, spearheaded two significant school bond ini-

tiatives and led multiple committees.

“Ruben has a proven track record of successfully collaborating with staff and connecting with community organizations and families,” Superintendent Bill W. Sanderson said in a release. “He has a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to equity and creating positive change.”

Fernandez holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from UC Riverside and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University. He is currently pursuing a Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership at the University of Southern California.

“We are extremely fortunate to have Ruben’s expertise,” Sanderson said.

Ruben Fernandez

Courtesy of LGSUHSD

GREAT DEAL Local Kitchens locations in Campbell and Los Gatos gave out free sandwiches to 100 lucky customers to promote a fresh partnership with a New Orleans restaurant.

“He will be a strong addition to our district in supporting our students, staff, and community.”

Fernandez has achieved certifications as a Chief Business Official from the California Association of School Business Officials and for completion of the Superintendents Academy from the Association of California School Administrators.

SANDWICH GIVEAWAY

Local Kitchens gave out 100 free sandwiches and pasta salad sides March 29 to promote its new partnership with New Orleans-based restaurant Turkey and The Wolf. The menu, called Flavor Trippin’, is a sandwich and salad concept developed by chef Mason Hereford.

HITCHCOCK FESTIVAL NEARS

The 2nd Annual Alfred Hitchcock Festival takes place this weekend at the Scotts Valley Cultural and Performing Arts Center.

People from across America—and beyond—say they’re planning to attend, organizers reported to the City Council.

The festival opens at 4pm on Friday, March 8th and closes at 2:30 pm on Sunday, March 10.

View the full schedule here: http:// www.hitchcockfestival.com.

WATER UTILITY GETS NEW PRESIDENT

San Jose Water (SJW) announced Tanya Moniz-Witten will be joining the company as President on March 25, 2024.

CORRECTION

Moniz-Witten joins SJW from National Grid, where she held the position of vice president, electric distribution field operations. Before that, she worked at Pacific Gas and Electric, Co. where she was senior director of electric distribution field operations and director of public safety among other roles.

“Tanya will be a true force for good here in Silicon Valley,” said SJW Group President and CEO Eric W. Thornburg, in a release. “Tanya is an exceptionally talented servant leader with over 20 years of utility experience in large, complex organizations.”

Thornburg said Moniz-Witten has extensive operating experience lead ing high performing teams in Califor nia and Massachusetts, and maintains a commitment to employee safety and engagement.

“Additionally, she grew up here in the Bay Area and shares our ethic of community service and delivering world class service to our customers,” he said.

The “Heart of our Town…” article in last week’s issue (Feb. 28-March 5, 2024) incorrectly included an additional space in the spelling of the developer’s last name. It should have read “LaBarbera” not “La Barbera.” The piece also should've been clearly labeled as an opinion article. We regret the errors.

Tanya Moniz-Witten

SUPER EXCITEMENT ON SUPER TUESDAY

Election, from page 1

The Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters reported what is expected to emerge as a record low turnout, with perhaps less than a third of registered voters casting a ballot.

After a last-minute bout of door-knocking in San Jose, Tuesday morning, Liccardo reflected on just how intense the contest had been, given Eshoo only announced she was stepping down in November.

“This has been a pretty truncated election season for us,” he said. “We’re building the engine as the car’s racing down the road.”

He spent Monday afternoon going door-to-door in Saratoga, where he tried to convince voters that someone with experience leading Silicon Valley’s biggest city is the ideal person to solve problems in Washington.

“Mayors are not like those who have served in a state legislature which is dominated mostly by one party,” he said. “Mayors have to be accountable for getting things done. I learned that every time I went to the grocery store or the gym.”

One of the most touching memories, he says, was the time a woman ran down the street after him to hand-over a check for $20.

Simitian said it’s been nice to meet people who he’s represented over the years while working at various levels of state and local government.

“It has been a whirlwind of a campaign,” he said. “I feel like the response that the campaign has gotten from Day 1 has been very encouraging. People have been very positive.”

He’s hammered on four main issues: abortion, climate change, economics and health care.

“It was particularly gratifying that so many folks in Los Gatos stepped up and said, ‘We’re with you,’” he said, touting his endorsements from Town Council members. “This district is a special place. It just is. And the rest of the nation looks to our Valley for a view to the future.”

Ahmed Mostafa is someone who has helped shape that global tech future as a policy lead for Google, a job he quit in December to jump into the race.

“I've been humbled and inspired to witness the outpouring of community support for my grassroots campaign for change,” he said in an emailed statement. “Voters know that this election

represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to elect a progressive candidate who will advance the transformative change that they deserve.”

He was planning to spend the final hours of the primary race knocking on thousands of doors, promising to amplify the voices of working-class people.

Low declined to comment for this article.

Michael Borja, associate communications officer for the Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters, said the agency has been working with influential community leaders—and even podcasting—in order to encourage as many people to vote as possible.

“This is our main democratic process,” he said, when asked about the significance of the primary. “It’s our civic duty. It’s just a super important day.”

The County has systems in-place to make sure people who are hard-of-hearing or visually-impaired can vote with ease, he added.

Citizens also had the chance to make their opinion known on other items, too.

And in the weeks ahead of Super Tuesday, YouTube viewers were bombarded with ads boosting Proposition 1, featuring Governor Gavin Newsom as the spokesperson.

'This election represents a once-in-ageneration opportunity'

Ahmed Mostafa, 16th District candidate

If successful, the initiative would authorize the state to spend $6.4 billion to build more drug treatment and mental health care facilities.

“Sutter Health is a strong supporter of Proposition 1, because we believe in Governor Newsom’s vision to reform mental health services across California,” said Grace Davis, chief external affairs officer for Sutter Health, one of the funders. “Proposition 1 will expand access to mental health and addiction care services and help address the critical shortage of mental health professionals.”

Meanwhile, just next door to Los Gatos in the 19th Congressional District, Congressman Jimmy Panetta had to contend with a longtime constituent challenging him from the left.

Santa Cruz resident Sean Dougherty said he joined the race because he was frustrated that Panetta wouldn’t meet with him.

He’s also criticized the politician, who is the son of former CIA Direc-

tor Leon Panetta, for collecting more than $200,000 from military-industrial-complex donors and accepting more than $143,000 from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee since the Israel-Hamas war began.

“These political donations for them are an investment,” he said.

Panetta did not respond to a request for comment for this article.

“I think these big donors influence the positions that Panetta is taking,” Dougherty said, pointing to his decision to sign a January letter denouncing South Africa’s claim of genocide against Israel at the International Court of Justice. “He could have just continued refusing to call for a ceasefire and left it at that. But he went a step further.”

On Friday, Panetta led a push for Biden to call for a “pause” in the fighting in Gaza and for hostages to be returned by Hamas.

With files from Barry Holtzclaw

BALLOT-CASTING Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian voted in February.

Courtesy of Joe Simitian

HIGH HOPES FOR BIG SEASON

Baseball, from page 1

Starters—or ones—and backups— twos—can flip-flop at any position depending on who is performing the best in practice and games.

That’s a luxury few schools outside of the WCAL have. And Los Gatos— which entered this week’s play with a 3-1 record—is one of them.

“There’s not much fallback from our first option to our second option,” Minkel said. “We feel that way across the board with the exception of (Carter) Johnstone. We’ve got lots of pieces, lots of depth, a steady mix of (upper class) returners, to guys from the JV team that won their league championship last year.”

Simply put, Johnstone is one of the top five players in the section. The senior shortstop has signed with Cal State Fullerton and earned Second Team All State and Co-CCS Player of the Year honors last season.

“Our offense runs through Carter,” Minkel said. “He’s already off to a really good start and is kind of the catalyst for us. He’s just an all-around

baseball player and can play any infield position. I could probably put him in the outfield if we need him to go to the outfield.”

Johnstone hits No. 2 in the batting order with junior outfielder Brayden Smith as the No. 3 hitter.

“Brayden has kind of served as protection in the lineup for Johnstone,” Minkel said. “It makes teams that much harder for them to pitch around Carter when someone like Brayden is hitting behind him.”

Donovan Freed, a returning senior first baseman, put up some impressive numbers last year and has improved his defense. Minkel also expects big things from returning senior Sage Romero, who is one of the most versatile players on the team.

“Sage Romero is another catalyst for us, another Swiss Army Knife” Minkel said. “He’s a competitor and has started pretty hot this year hitting cleanup. He’s looking for pitches to drive early in the count and when he

gets to two strikes, you can see a conscious decision by him to essentially do whatever it takes to do the job. He gets the ball around to drive the run home or move guys over.”

Romero is also a part of a pitching corps that Minkel can’t stop raving about. The second-year Los Gatos skipper said he’s got four quality starters in AJ Minyard, Anthony Andrews, Matt Ludeman and Ethan Williams.

Minyard is the lone returning starter and is coming off a tremendous junior season in which he routinely posted quality starts and at times was dominant.

According to Minkel, Andrews is a rare talent.

“He’s one of the most athletic guys we have on the roster,” he said. “And when he’s at his best on the mound or behind the plate, it’s hard for us to find someone as good. So, the key for us is keeping him fresh at both positions and making sure we’re using his talents to the best of his ability—and what works best for the team.”

Ludeman and Williams were on the junior varsity team last season and have made a seamless transition to the varsity level. Ludeman pitches and plays first

base, and was the starting center on the Los Gatos High football team that made a historic run this past season in reaching a CIF Regional Bowl Championship game final for the first time in school history.

“Matt’s athleticism breaks the mold of whatever people might think of a lineman playing baseball,” Minkel said. “You see him on the mound pitching, and you’re not thinking he’s an offensive lineman.

“He’s one of the biggest competitors we have, a great kid, with a fantastic work ethic and a desire to win.”

Minkel said he was expecting big things from Williams as well. In the team’s most recent game, a 4-3 win over Carmel High on March 2, Williams came on in relief in the third inning and shut Carmel down. This allowed the Wildcats to rally to victory.

“Ethan backed Matt up and was lights-out the rest of the game,” Minkel said. “He held Carmel down and allowed our offense to scratch and claw, chip away and win it. We wouldn't have been able to do that without Ethan coming on and essentially slamming the door shut from the bottom third inning on.

COVERING GROUND Wildcats senior Santino Nanez makes an acrobatic play to field the ball and make a throw to first base for the out during their 4-3 non-league home win over Pioneer High on Feb. 28.

Jonathan Natividad

DOWNTOWN BOUTIQUES DEAL WITH BREAK-INS

East Kennedy, Jackie ‘O managers say man used specialized tool in crime

Drew Penner, Editor

With afternoon turning to evening, Raschel Archambeault would normally be closing-up-shop at East Kennedy, but on Feb. 28, she was waiting for a locksmith.

Earlier in the day she’d learned overnight a man had broken-into the downtown boutique she manages, and so here she was in an unsecured storefront.

“We feel disgusted,” she said. “We feel totally violated.”

There were elements of the incident that make the whole thing feel like more than a simple smash-and-grab or crime of convenience.

The suspect used a specialized tool to gain entry to the building, but instead of snatching couture clothing, swanky bags or designer purses, he left empty-handed. He didn’t even wear a mask or gloves.

“It’s such a trip,” Archambeault said. “My laptop was right there.”

Andrea Blackwell, owner of Blackwell Cosmetics, said the store owned by her daughter next door, Jackie ‘O was also broken into.

“He took nothing, because he’s coming back,” she said, referencing the tool the criminal used to gain entry. “He now has a key.”

At the end of the day, her locksmith confirmed that particular device isn’t one you see often.

David Biton, owner of Buddy’s Locksmith, said the man didn’t even damage the locks.

“It’s like a gun which picks the lock,” he said. “I saw it one time in five years.”

The new lock he installed for Jackie ‘O is outfitted with additional security features.

Blackwell said the store no longer keeps cash on the premises, ever since they were hit with another break-in recently. In that case, the thief madeoff with some money.

“Probably the guy’s going to come back and see our new lock and break our window,” she said, commenting with her dark sense of humor. “You know, they’re guys. They don’t want clothes and Gucci…they want cash.”

Back at East Kennedy, LeAnn Green, another manager, said the police responded to their burglar alarm, but left after a while, as the door was locked and nothing seemed awry.

Owner Hayley Aurelio already

upped their security measures following a string of thefts.

About a year ago a vintage Gucci paperweight was taken.

And within the past six months: a Chanel wallet on a chain worth

$4,500 was taken; and a $1,500 Valentino handbag was also removed from the premises.

Then, on Feb. 17, a woman shoplifted a $219 3D-I bag covered in rhinestones that glitters like a disco ball.

The break-in last week, however, just felt different, says Green.

“There was nothing out of place,” she said, adding she doesn’t faulw t the police for leaving after an initial check. “I’m sure they thought, too, this is a false alarm.”

Archambeault noted that the man went right for their register.

“He wanted the cash for sure,” she said, pointing out that he didn’t bother with the Chanel or the Dior or the Gucci on display. “He didn’t want any of that.”

The staff felt so disturbed by the incident that, for the rest of the day, they couldn’t bring themselves to sit behind the counter where the man had been snooping in the dark. “Are they going to come back tonight?” she wondered.

On Tuesday, Blackwell said while Jackie ‘O hasn’t faced a break-in since, she hasn’t been informed of an arrest in the case, either.

“Both shops now have those high-security locks,” she said.

ESCAPING A man dashes off after breaking-in to East Kennedy in Los Gatos on Feb. 28.

LOOKING IN The suspect didn’t even bother to wear a mask.

Courtesy of East Kennedy

Courtesy of East Kennedy

QUESTION OF THE WEEK

What are your summer plans?

John Paul K. Amaral, 26, visitor services at New Museum Los Gatos San Jose State University history major (minor in Native American studies)

“I will be headed to Portland Maine to oversee my exhibit of beadwork and tapestries at the Museum of Beadwork. My show will be running July 5 through the end of November.”

Mary Lucey , 60, retired pharmacist (met along San Mateo Avenue)

“I am a cancer survivor and am very happy to be able to help my daughter move into her new condo in San Diego.”

Olivia Stalcup, 32, operations lead at NUMU

"My best friend is getting married on Kauai. I’m going to hang out after and enjoy the Island."

Kevin Matter, 27, assistant recreation coordinator at LGS Recreation

“I am looking forward to our day trips: ‘Funny Girl,’ at the San Francisco Orpheum in May, San Francisco Giants vs Blue Jays in July—and more.”

Pitching has been a real strength for us for the first four games.”

Los Gatos also has Tre Golino coming out of the bullpen, giving Minkel plenty of options to use on the mound.

“It’s almost like we have too much depth for playing two games a week,” he said. “I wish we could play more games and I don’t understand why we don’t.”

Rowen Smith will play catcher when Andrews is pitching, giving the team quality depth behind the dish. In fact, Minkel has two lineups assembled—one specifically against right-handed starters and another for left-handers. Competition is fierce at almost every position, making for some tough decisions for the coaching staff.

“It’s probably the most depth I’ve seen in a high school program,” Minkel said. “Our intrasquads are very competitive. We have two full rosters playing. It reminds me a little bit of (MLB) spring training, where every

team has split squads. One team plays here; one team plays at another place (at the same time). I’ve told players time and time again, it’s their job to make the decision tough on me as far as who is in the field and who is on the mound. And so far it’s been pretty tough.”

Los Gatos has a storied baseball tradition but hasn’t appeared in a CCS playoff final since 2018, when it lost to Valley Christian 4-3 in the Open Division championship game. The Wildcats’ last section title came in 2009.

However, they’ve put themselves in position to win another championship time and again, and this season should turn out no different.

“We feel like on paper we can be as talented as any other team in the opposing dugout,” Minkel said, reflecting on the competitiveness of the Open Division match-ups to come. “We want to make sure we’re working harder than those teams.”

John Paul K. Amaral

Mary Lucey

Kevin Matter

Olivia Stalcup

BLOOD: THE HOT COMMODITY EVERYONE NEEDS

Jeffrey P. Blum, Contributor

We've got a crisis on our hands, and it's not the latest TikTok trend or an avocado shortage. We're talking about a severe blood drought. The life-giving, accident-saving, surgery-enabling fluid is in shorter supply than toilet paper during the whole pandemic debacle.

You might be thinking, “But I'm terrified of needles!” or “What if I faint?” or the ever popular "Isn't blood kind of, well...icky?”

Let me address those concerns.

• Fear of Needles: Look, we've all been there. But those Red Cross blood drive technicians are experts. It'll be a tiny pinch, and before you can say “Ouch!” you’ll be sporting a bandage like a badge of honor.

• Fainting: Okay, it can happen. But hey, free nap! Plus, they'll have snacks ready to revive you. Consider it a blood donation with a side of cookies.

• The “Ick” Factor: Sure, blood's a bit messy, but guess what? So is childbirth, surgery, or that time you tried to fix your own bike chain. We're not squeamish about those, are we?

Approximately every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. That could be the car accident victim down the street, a mom with childbirth complications, or a child battling cancer. It could even be you or someone you love someday. The thing about needing blood is it's rarely planned. It's like needing a spare tire – you don't think about it until you're stranded on the side of the road. Northern California community blood banks are experiencing an emergency blood and platelet shortage as communities face the lowest number of people donating blood in 20 years. While 38% of Americans are eligible to give blood, only about 3% donate regularly. Your blood donation is needed now to ensure life-saving medical procedures are not delayed. Donors of all blood types are urgently needed, but especially type O blood donors.

The problem is, unlike toilet paper, you can't stockpile blood. It has a shelf life, and the only way to replenish the supply is through the kindness of regular people like us. Think of it as the ultimate community project, where the final product is saving lives.

And if the whole “be a good human” thing doesn't move you, think of this: They give out cookies. Seriously, free cookies! Plus, orange juice, and that smugly satisfied feeling only a true hero gets to experience.

Here's the deal, Los Gatos: The two Rotary Clubs in Los Gatos and the Red Cross are teaming up for a blood drive on March 16th from

8am-2pm at St Luke's Episcopal Church in downtown Los Gatos. Ditch the excuses for an hour, put down your telephone, and do something that truly matters.

Here are some final thoughts to ponder as you contemplate your life-saving potential:

• You can't buy blood at the store. (That would be weird, right?)

• Donating one pint of blood can save up to three lives. One pint! You've got more than that sloshing around.

• If vampires can make blood look cool, surely we can make donating look even cooler.

So, mark your calendars, Los Gatos! Roll up your sleeve (preferably

in a dramatic fashion), and let's show the world what a community of heroes looks like. Because let's face it, when was the last time a TikTok dance saved a life? Let's get those blood banks overflowing!

To sign up for the Los Gatos Rotary Clubs and Red Cross Blood Drive, visit https://www.redcrossblood.org/ give.html/find-drive. The name of our blood drive is Los Gatos Rotary. Put in your zip code (e.g. 95032) and the date of the event. Registration can also be done on the day of the event.

Jeffrey P. Blum is a family law mediator who lives in Los Gatos. He can be reached at blumesq@aol.com.

GENEROUS Columnist Jeffrey Blum would like to see more people helping to replenish the blood bank stockpiles.

Ahmad Ardity

LIVES

Robert “Bump” Charles Rogers

July 12, 1945 – January 31, 2024

“Being alive is enough reason to be happy.”

Bump Passed away peacefully at home, after 78 years of life. He was born on Staten Island, New York to Mary Kathryn Rogers (Hicks) and James William Rogers. As a baby his family moved to Easy Ave., West Long Beach, California where they surrounded themselves in a neighborhood full of friends and relatives. He shared a room with his two brothers Jimmy & Dan while his sister Judy and parents had the other rooms. Through the 1950’s & 60’s he experienced fishing off Pierpoint Landing in Downtown Long Beach, water skiing out of the mouth of the Los Angeles River, serving as an altar boy at church and attending boy scout activities with siblings and cousins. As a family and sometimes a neighborhood convoy they would take extended trips to Yosemite National Park. This became a favorite lifelong destination. He naturally reveled in the company of his older brother especially when he was included in going for a drive with Jimmy’s Instigators Car Club. Bump’s younger sister always gravitated to him for comfort and solace, even more so after their father passed away. He graduated from St. Anthony High School in 1963. He married Judith A. VanEman on December 19, 1970 in Santa Barbara, California. He earned degrees in Metallurgy and Engineering followed by an M.B.A. from Santa Clara University. He was a member of the TKE Fraternity and served in a leadership role as Vice President. In addition to academics Bump’s

relocation to the San Francisco Bay Area included the pursuit of nuclear engineering. His career began while working for Westinghouse, then he moved to Los Gatos and co-founded TBW Industries, INC. (The Buckle Works) with his wife and their good friend. He found great pleasure in making friends and clients locally, nationally and around the world for the next 30 years until he accepted an offer to sell the business in 2009 to industry colleagues. He took great pride in the home that he shared with his wife in Los Gatos and would start every day with morning coffee, the newspaper and a handwritten note for Judy that would begin with “Good Morning My Dear Queen.” He provided fatherly attention to his nephew Brandon, where he made a lasting impression as a mentor and stable hearth keeper. Bump enjoyed attending baseball games his whole life and was a passionate critic of sports and current events. He enjoyed the stimulation of good conversations as it related to culture, philosophy, domestic and international politics. His ferocious appetite for reading included making his way through a rotation of library books and a personal collection of literature. He was guided by the principle of a joie de vivre “joy of living” and it was evident throughout his lifelong journey with sincerity and humor. In retirement life was spent just as he wanted…. “with my wife.” And he found success with this too.

Lazaro Garza

April 14, 1931 – January 30, 2024

Sadly we report the death of Lazaro Garza, longtime resident of Los Gatos and beloved Spanish teacher at Los Gatos High.

Lazaro was born in Mexico, the 7th son of 9 boys. His father was an American Presbyterian missionary. Lazaro grew up in Mexico and came to an American High School in Texas to learn English. After graduation he came to live with his brother in San Jose and attend SJSU. While attending college he worked in the many canaries. He majored in English and then got his MA in Spanish at Santa Clara University. He taught at all of the elementary schools in Los Gatos, including Old Town when it was a school. He then went on to teach at Los Gatos High. He met the love of his life, Bridget and married her in 1960. He took great joy in teaching all his many students through the years.

He leaves behind his wife, daughter, son-in-law, two grandsons, one remaining brother and a loving extended family.

Memorial will be held Thursday March 28, 2024 at 3:00 pm at Los Gatos History Club, 123 Los Gatos Blvd., Los Gatos CA 95030.

To RSVP to Lazaro’s memorial please go to: https://forms.gle/TZCc6QTVPUA3vfGS9

SUPPORTING THOSE WHO KEEP THE PEACE—IN THE BALLROOM

At the annual LGMS Police Foundation fundraiser

Dinah Cotton, Contributor

First question—what to wear?

This year, the 5 th Annual Los Gatos Monte Sereno Police Foundation Police Officers Ball was held in the historic and beautiful Cask Room at Testarossa Winery , located in the hills overlooking Los Gatos.

Here Los Gatos bravest and finest moved and grooved to Heidi Evelyn & her vintage jazz band, eating gourmet food, drinking delicious Testarossa wines and raising additional monies for our force.

In 2020, tickets were sold, the menu was planned, the flowers were ordered. But suddenly, we were locked down and the event had to be canceled. The board quickly went into action.

According to board member Megan Shea, there were 20 magnificent centerpieces sitting at her home that had already been paid for. What to do, what to do, what to do? Her friends and neighbors helped disperse the arrangements—to lucky folks who may have been sheltering-in-place, but at least ended up with elegant displays.

The memory was still lingering in people’s minds, as this year's festivities in support of the 501(c)3 organization approached. According to their website, the Foundation “helps envision and enable world-class, efficient, and equitable practices and services that promote public safety and serve as a model to other communities nationwide.” It’s a highly-anticipated date on the local social calendar. It costs $150 per ticket, but if one chooses to sponsor an officer, it’s only $75. This funding goes towards the drone and K9 programs, school resource officer, specialized surveillance and other investigative tools.

I was thrilled to be able to attend this event and to mingle with some of the movers, shakers, and

peace-keepers of our fine town.

Foundation President Jonathan Knowles and board member Teri Hope led the auction, and plenty of LGMSPD officers attended with their +1’s.

Patrick Mockler , a fairly new board member, explained to me just how important it is for him to participate in the Foundation, and get the message out that everyone has a voice in Los Gatos-Monte Sereno.

His beautiful wife Vanessa Mockler , agreed. That voice is to “help bridge the gap,” she said, adding this includes fundraising to help our police department get those shields and other things that the police department may not have the budget for. And this also includes the comfort and apprehension dogs.

Auction items included a “RideAlong with the Chief” package, a

DRONE This unmanned remote-controlled tool was funded by the Foundation in the past.

TICKETS The fundraiser cost $150 to attend.

John Eichinger

PARTNERSHIP Foundation President Jonathan Knowles with Chief of Police Jamie Field.

Dinah Cotton

Dinah Cotton

Testarossa

Library Reserve Tasting

Experience donated by Rob & Diana Jensen, three nights in a French chateau, donated by Fred Faltersack.

Police Chief Jamie Field stated that us Los Gatans, here on the edge of the Silicon Valley, are leading the state with how we raise funds that allow innovative policing (think drones and robots).

“Drones can help locate lost people and capture events from high altitudes,” she said. “They can be rapidly deployed.”

If you are grateful to be living in a Town where the brave men and women keep the peace, thank them. Also thank those who stand by them—and just maybe keep that ball gown or black tie handy so you can attend the Ball next year.

Dinah (Wightman) Cotton was born in San Francisco and raised on Oahu. After graduating from the University of Hawaii she returned to the mainland, moving to Los Gatos just in time for the 1989 earthquake. She is a certified yoga instructor and enjoys doing Pilates. Contact her with human interest story tips and column feedback at dina.jane.cotton@gmail.com.

Cutlines:

(Knowles and Field) AUCTION LEADERS Foundation President Jonathan Knowles with Chief of Police Jamie Field. (Photo by Dinah Cotton / Los Gatan)

(Drone) DRONE This unmanned remote-controlled tool was funded by the Foundation in the past. (Photo by Dinah Cotton / Los Gatan)

Let us help you with your next rebranding, product launch, media campaign, digital initiative, website redesign or image refresh.

identity + strategy + design

Let us help you with your next rebranding, product launch, media campaign, digital initiative, website redesign or image refresh. identity + strategy + design

(Megan Shea photo by Dinah Cotton / Los Gatan) Megan Shea, a Foundation board member. (Photo by Dinah Cotton / Los Gatan)

TICKETS The fundraiser cost $150 to attend.

(Ticket photo by John Eichinger)

Dinah Cotton

FLORAL ARRANGEMENT

Megan Shea, a Foundation board member.

following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Delgado Construction, Inc., 360 South 13th Street, San Jose, CA, 95112, Armando Delgado. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 3/21/07.

Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/ Armando Delgado. President. #C2982422. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/08/2024. (pub Metro 02/14, 02/21, 02/28, 03/06/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

#702999

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. Real Estate & Loan Professors, Inc., 2. Real Estate Professors, 360 South 13th Street, San Jose, CA, 95112, Armando Delgado. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business

under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 3/2/99. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Armando Delgado. President. #2347541. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/08/2024. (pub Metro 02/14, 02/21, 02/28, 03/06/2024)

File Number: FBN702907. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: Nicholas Buchan Consulting, 5050 Elester Drive, San Jose, CA 95124531. This business is conducted by: An Individual, Nicholas Ian Buchan, 5050 Elester Drive, San Jose, CA 95124531. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 02/06/2024 and 02/06/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Ronald Nguyen /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Nicholas Ian Buchan /s/ (Pub LGN: 02/14, 02/21, 02/28, 3/06/2024)

File Number: FBN702666.

The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: Two Wheel Safety Training, 5055 Santa Teresa Blvd, Gilroy, CA 95020. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, Two Wheel Safety Training, 3137 Diablo Ave, Hayward, CA 94545. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 08/26/2004 and 01/29/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Nina Khamphilath /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. Two Wheel Safety Training, Article/Reg # 2672372, Above Entity was Formed in the State of California. /s/ Joi Davis /s/ Owner. (Pub LGN: 03/06, 03/13, 03/20, 03/27/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #702969

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Active Space Training Centers, 1477 Dry Creek Road, San Jose, CA, 95125, Milpitas Fitness Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 03/27/2016. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Joseph R Gigantino Jr. President. #2476322. This statement was filed with the County

Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/07/2024. (pub Metro 02/14, 02/21, 02/28, 03/06/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #702945

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as:

Redemption Online, 105 Nortech Parkway, San Jose, CA, 95134, Jubilee Christian Center of San Jose, Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Greg Smith. Secretary & Treasurer. #C1117817. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/06/2024. (pub LG 02/14, 02/21, 02/28, 03/06/2024)

File Number: FBN703005

The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: My Pretty Pet Store, 858 Civic Center Dr, Santa Clara, CA 95050. County: Santa Clara. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, #202460512963 California. Pet Supply Distributors, LLC, 858 Civic Center Dr, Santa Clara, CA 95050. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A and 02/08/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Nina Khamphilath, Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, 1st Floor, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Moises A Rodriguez, Manager. Pet Supply Distributors, LLC. (Pub LGN 2/21, 2/28, 3/6, 3/13)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #703150

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: AFM Painting And Construction, 1009 E. Capitol Espwy, #430, San Jose, CA, 95121, Aldo Figueroa Mendoza. This business is owned by an Individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/ Aldo Figueroa Mendoza. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/12/2024. (pub Metro 02/21, 02/28, 03/06, 03/13/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #703052

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. Direct Motor Buy, 2. Direct Buy Motors, 1859 W San Carlos

Street, San Jose, CA, 95128, Majid Rafipour. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 12/03/2013. /s/ Majid Rafipour. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/09/2024. (pub LG 02/21, 02/28, 03/06, 03/13/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

#703021

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Wandersbitten, 1929 Adelaide Way, San Jose, CA, 95124, Glen A Nesbitt. This business is being conducted by a General Partnership. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Glen Nesbitt. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/08/2024. (pub Metro 02/14, 02/21, 02/28, 03/06/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

#703187

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Han Tang Acupuncture,

3571 Homestead Rd Suite 1, Santa Clara, CA, 95051 Xinglin Acupuncture Center Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 11/01/2023. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Xiaokai. Owner. #5958918. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/13/2024. (pub LG 02/21, 02/28, 03/06, 03/13/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #703023

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Acoustic Specialties, 12350 Foothill Ave., San Martin, CA, 95046, Diamond Beach Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/11/2024. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Vincent J. Bjurman. President. #2148372. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/08/2024. (pub LG 02/28, 03/06, 03/13, 03/20/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #703428

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Soled’ Co., 200 Hollis Ave Apt 56, Campbell, CA, 95008, Dunn Daryl Zape. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/01/2024. /s/Dunn Darly Zape. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/22/2024. (pub LG 02/28, 03/06, 03/13, 03/20/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #703287

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Manman Photo, 1883 Agnew Rd Unit 345, Santa Clara, CA, 95054, Shuo Tang. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 02/15/2024. /s/ Shuo Tang. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/15/2024. (pub Metro 02/21, 02/28, 03/06, 03/13/2024)