Los Gatan May 8 2024

STATE AGENCY GIVES TOWN’S HOMES PLAN

THUMBS-UP

Monte Sereno also wins approval for its Housing Element

Drew Penner, Editor

The California Department of Housing and Community Development told Los Gatos Friday the Town had finally—on its sixth attempt—managed to draw-up a Housing Element that will pass muster.

Mayor Mary Badame told the Los Gatan she’s proud the 6th Cycle Draft Housing Element now meets all statutory requirements for State certification.

“Receiving State acceptance did not come easy,” Badame said. “With six rejected Housing Element drafts, the Town Council established a focused agenda to openly engage the drafting and review process as a top priority.”

It’s a landmark moment for a community that has faced serious division as residents aligned themselves into camps over the issue—of those more eager to see housing built, versus those who fear the erosion of the atmosphere that has made Los Gatos so unique.

Councilmember Rob Moore,

➝ Housing Element, 4

SPICE, WARMTH AND RELAXATION BLENDED FOR DAR’S OPENING

Shaqir brothers’ Mediterranean menu tempts local palates

Laura Ness, Contributor

According to brothers Milad and Chef Esam Shaqir, Dar means “house of” or “family of,” and symbolizes the essence of home, warmth and hospitality. These qualities were on full display May 1 at the Grand Opening for their restaurant of that name.

Atop the Soda Works Plaza at 11 College Ave., nearly 250 people—local residents, foodies, Town officials and business owners—filled the patio. The weather was most hospitable, the atmosphere further brightened by the bouquets of flowers

➝ Grand Opening, 10

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564 CHELSEA CROSSING, SAN JOSE

564 CHELSEA CROSSING, SAN JOSE

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Lovely Basking Ridge remodeled home situated in a fabulous location. The home has been tastefully updated with a newly remodeled kitchen that features white shaker cabinetry, slab granite counters, subway tiled back-splash, stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop range, refrigerator, breakfast nook. Formal living room with high ceiling & tiled fireplace. Beautiful cherrywood floors. Spacious primary suite with high ceiling, walk-in closet, freshly updated bathroom. Lower level with two bedrooms, remodeled bathroom, a separate family room/den. Two car finished garage with sliding door to exterior. Backyard with outdoor kitchen/bbq, raised vegetable beds, artificial grass, entertaining patio, fruit trees. Lovely views of open space, mountains, and greenery. Association pool/spa, community park and walking trails. Close to all major shopping, schools, and commute routes.

Lovely Basking Ridge remodeled home situated in a fabulous location. The home has been tastefully updated with a newly remodeled kitchen that features white shaker cabinetry, slab granite counters, subway tiled back-splash, stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop range, refrigerator, breakfast nook. Formal living room with high ceiling & tiled fireplace. Beautiful cherrywood floors. Spacious primary suite with high ceiling, walk-in closet, freshly updated bathroom. Lower level with two bedrooms, remodeled bathroom, a separate family room/den. Two car finished garage with sliding door to exterior. Backyard with outdoor kitchen/bbq, raised vegetable beds, artificial grass, entertaining patio, fruit trees. Lovely views of open space, mountains, and greenery. Association pool/spa, community park and walking trails. Close to all major shopping, schools, and commute routes.

Lovely Basking Ridge remodeled home situated in a fabulous location. The home has been tastefully updated with a newly remodeled kitchen that features white shaker cabinetry, slab granite counters, subway tiled back-splash, stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop range, refrigerator, breakfast nook. Formal living room with high ceiling & tiled fireplace. Beautiful cherrywood floors. Spacious primary suite with high ceiling, walk-in closet, freshly updated bathroom. Lower level with two bedrooms, remodeled bathroom, a separate family room/den. Two car finished garage with sliding door to exterior. Backyard with outdoor kitchen/bbq, raised vegetable beds, artificial grass, entertaining patio, fruit trees. Lovely views of open space, mountains, and greenery. Association pool/spa, community park and walking trails. Close to all major shopping, schools, and commute routes.

Bill Lister

Bill Lister

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HOUSING ELEMENT FINALLY DEEMED UP TO STATE STANDARD

Housing Element, from page 1

one of the most vocal proponents of housing development, dipped into the exclamatory in response to Town’s Instagram post with the update out of Sacramento.

“The best news to start the weekend!! Wooo!!” he typed. “Thank you to the whole Town of Los Gatos team!”

The thumbs-up comes after HCD spoke, on April 26, with Community Development Director Joel Paulson, Planning Manager Jennifer Armer, Jocelyn Shoopman and Erin Walter, associate planners, and consultant Veronica Tram—and following new comments from the Los Gatos Community

Alliance, Silicon Valley at Home and Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP.

However, the OK is contingent on ensuring there’s adequate housing capacity in the North 40 Specific Plan, as well as General Plan and zoning amendments, among other things.

“HCD appreciates the hard work and dedication the entire Town staff provided in preparation of the Town’s housing element and looks forward to receiving the Town’s adopted housing element,” wrote Paul McDougall, a senior program manager with the agency.

In the meantime, the Town received 18 applications for by-right “SB330”

Vice Mayor Matthew Hudes who’ve opposed making some changes—including rezoning or promising to intensify some areas—that HCD officials said they’d need to see before certifying the Housing Element.

On May 22, 2024, the Planning Commission will consider an updated draft, and Council will have the option to approve the document June 4.

After adoption, the Housing Element will get handed-in to HCD, for the final sign-off.

“Moving forward, the Town remains dedicated to implementing the strategies outlined in the Element to effectively achieve our Regional Housing Needs Allocation,” Mayor Badame said.

Monte Sereno Won-Over State by Pushing ADUs

On April 22, HCD told Monte Sereno it was prepared to certify its Housing Element.

This follows a big push by the City to get homeowners to add new granny flats or legalize ones they’d previously installed on the sly.

Councilmember Bryan Mekechuk largely credits former mayor Shawn Leuthold for their success.

“Shawn was the one that led the charge,” he said, noting he came up with the idea of going door-to-door. “He actually had a signup sheet there on an iPad…He would close the sale right on the doorstep.”

They divided the city into five segments, with each Council member taking one. And each Site and Architectural Commissioner was paired with a Council member.

housing proposals, a process introduced by the State to force communities like Los Gatos to build more homes.

That tally has now reached 20.

Having a substantially compliant Housing Element is the key to stemming the tide of housing projects hoping to take advantage of the “Builder’s Remedy” mechanism.

Last week, the Los Gatos Community Alliance posted a blog blaming Moore and his supporters for the rocky certification process, claiming he shouldn’t have voted for the initial deficient plan.

However, it was Mayor Badame and

“We were sharing what was working and what was not working,” Mekechuk said. “You don’t want one area that has all your housing. You want it to be spread through the community. By having ADUs we don’t have one pocket of high-density.”

Getting to this point hasn’t been easy, he acknowledged.

“It’s taken a couple years,” he said, looking back on the process which began with a study session in February 2022. “It was a long, difficult process.”

The City first worked with consultant EMC Planning Group, and later, Metropolitan Planning Group.

Staff recommended Monte Sereno adopt its updated Housing Element draft at the May 7 Council meeting.

RESIDENTIAL The Town has received 20 housing proposals under the “SB330” process, which was put in place to encourage homebuilding in communities like Los Gatos.

MOTHER AND DAUGHTER SAY GRAD NIGHT BASH WILL BE EPIC

280 chaperones needed to make “last hurrah” flow smoothly for seniors

Drew Penner, Editor

The mulberry tree on the lawn in front of Los Gatos High School is a reminder to Judy Peckler, 78, about the importance of the annual dry post-graduation party.

The tree is dedicated to her only son, her husband and her youngest daughter, who were killed when they were hit by a drunk driver on their way to Tahoe in 1997.

“I’m lucky I had them,” she said. “They were amazing people.”

She’d already been involved in planning the drugs- and alcohol-free event before that. And now her 52-yearold daughter Jennifer Colson (LGHS Class of 1990) is taking a starring role in organizing this year’s.

“It’s one of the most fun memories that I have,” Peckler said of attending her grad party. “Even at this age. And a lot of people at the end feel the same way.”

Colson said seniors need a safe place to hang out together one final time.

“Kids do want to be together after graduation, as their last hurrah,” she said. “The people who leave early miss out on what is a really cool memory.”

The event will feature a massive slide, hairdressing and fortune-telling stations, and a big casino, among other events.

Exiting into the next chapter of their lives as the sun comes up is nothing short of a magical moment, Peckler added.

But to get to that point takes an army of volunteers.

Parents help assemble amazing props out of cardboard “to really transform this school campus into another world,” Colson said, adding, “—we’ve got a (Virtual Reality) room.”

The big mystery everyone is wondering about is: What’s this year’s theme? “It’s a secret now,” Colson said, keeping her lips sealed-tight on this point.

Peckler said one of her all-time favorites was “Back to the Future.”

Volunteers are sworn to keep things classified, until it’s revealed on Graduation Day.

In the meantime, there’s plenty of hard work to complete.

“Mid-May to after graduation, it’s

just this demand for volunteers to come and pull everything together,” Colson said, explaining that each parent or guardian makes a memory board for their senior to hang in the Senior Museum area. “It’s included with the price of your ticket.”

Every year, this is one of the most fun things for the students, as they have to scour the walls to find the one with their photos plastered all over it.

“They take their memory board when they leave,” Colson said.

Grad Week begins June 3, culminating on June 7 with the outdoor graduation ceremony.

“It’s just a beautiful, beautiful ceremony,” Peckler said.

Then, Grad Night begins at 10:30pm and continues through the right—right until 6am.

Once again, there will be a teacher band to serenade the students.

Tickets cost $250, and scholarships are available.

They usually get 90% attendance, but they’re hoping to do even better this time.

“We would love to have 100% attendance and keep all this class of kids together on that night,” Peckler said.

“I just want this to continue.”

But, says Colson, it does take a community.

Specifically, they need to fill 280 chaperone spots for the night-of.

“It’s parent-driven,” Peckler said. “It turned into a very elaborate event.”

To sign-up to volunteer for Grad Night contact Jennifer at jcolson@gmail. com or 408-489-9994

MOTHER & DAUGHTER Judy Peckler and her daughter Jennifer Colson know the importance of preventing intoxicated driving first-hand.

Drew Penner / Los Gatan

Drew Penner / Los Gatan

BIG SMILES Parent volunteers may work hard, but they have a blast.

just makes the day significantly better,” Soria said.

Ad PUPPY-CALMING EVENT SETS THE TONE FOR FINALS

Canine Companions

visit has become a yearly tradition at LGHS

Drew Penner, Editor

Kevin Buchanan, the principal of Los Gatos High School, looked out at the bustling campus as his last year before retirement winds-down.

He noticed a group of students playing with a ball on the lawn near East Main Street.

“This is a good sign,” he remarked. “For a while they were too-cool-forschool and wouldn’t.”

And to his right—what he described as a “post-Covid institution”—the dogs from Canine Companions were helping to restore a sense of peace to students days before two weeks of AP testing was to begin.

“This is now a regular event that we can count on,” he said.

Joey Soria, a 16-year-old sophomore, said math and English had been pretty intense that morning. So, seeing the dogs was a nice change-of-pace.

“Just coming out here and being able to have the dogs here for comfort, it

Sophia Krish, 16, the sophomore class president, said educators have been putting a heavy emphasis on wellness issues.

“I think it’s becoming a really big part of school, and academics,” she said, noting they promote different events and programs that help students’ mental health, such as December’s Stress Less Week. “I’m really happy with how this turned out.”

Autumn Wadhwa, 16, sophomore vice class president, said it was great that Canine Companions was able to bring the dogs over again.

“People can relax and have fun,” she said. “We want to continue this.”

Jeanne Lang, a volunteer puppy raiser and therapy team volunteer with the organization, was happy to introduce 4-year-old yellow lab retriever Rieger to the teens.

Leadership advisor Katie Marden explained that this is the calm before the storm.

“We wanted to give them a little positive energy boost,” she said. “It’s a pretty intense couple of weeks.”

After all, she says, the students have been engrossed in studying and deserve a break.

Susan and her husband Bob Buxton covered the cost of the puppy-calming.

“I think it went good,” Bob said. “Whenever they want to do an event like this again, we will sponsor it. No questions asked.”

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SPORTS FRANGIEH SETS SCHOOL RECORDS IN CCS FINALS

LGHS swimmers headed to CIF Championships

Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor

Karly Frangieh’s final time competing in the Central Coast Section Swimming and Diving Championships was one for the record books.

The Los Gatos High senior finished second in the girls 50-yard and 100 freestyle races—setting school records in both events—on May 4 at Independence High. Frangieh advances to the CIF State Championships, May 9-11 at the Clovis Olympic Swim Complex.

She’ll be joined by teammates Karissa Elliott, Kiana Koechlin and Ava Taylor, who along with Frangieh form the 400 free relay team. They finished fifth in 3 minutes, 33.78 seconds. In a testament to her versatility, Taylor had a pair of 12th-place finishes in her individual events, covering the 100 breaststroke in 1:06.11 and the 500 free in 5:09.71.

Frangieh, an Arizona State University-signee for water polo, clocked a 23.40 in the 50 free and 50.63 in the 100 free.

Her 50 free time broke the previous school record held by her older sister, Zoe, who recently completed a standout sophomore season playing water polo at ASU.

Karly Frangieh’s 100 time broke her own record she set last season.

“Overall, it was a great day,” she said. “Definitely fun. I was excited to drop my time, especially in the 50, because I hadn’t dropped my time in that event in a while.”

Frangieh enters the State Championships with the seventh fastest time in the 100 free and 11th fastest in the 50 free. Her times in both events are under the Automatic All America cutoff, meaning she ranks in the top 8% nationally.

The two-sport standout said the team dynamic at LGHS helps the athletes maximize their performance.

“I think our team is pretty special because we’re close and all support each other,” she said. “That’s something other teams might not have.”

This is the third time Frangieh has advanced to the State Championships, but she’s never qualified for the ‘A’ final, which takes the top eight swimmers from the Prelims.

“I’m looking forward to it,” she said. “I’ve never been seeded this high in my personal events, so I’m definitely looking to make a final and improve my times.”

Lonergan Advances

On the boys side, Wildcats senior Ewan Lonergan advanced to State in the 100-yard breaststroke, placing second in the CCS Finals in a time of 55.91 seconds.

A day earlier in the CCS Prelims, Lonergan established the fastest time of the meet with a PR of 55.10 seconds.

As Lonergan touched the wall, he

pumped his arms and screamed in celebration. Lonergan, who has made a verbal commitment to swim for Southern Methodist University next year, didn’t expect a PR because he had been out of the pool for a week after a bout with poison oak, which left him unable to use his arm for a few days.

“I had low expectations for this meet, so this was kind of a surprise,” he said. “A drop in time here felt really good. I think our relay teams pumped me up and my teammates have been really elevating my swimming. During the (regular) season, I was going pretty slow. But I feel like championship season is looking pretty good. I’m definitely looking forward to State.”

Lonergan also placed seventh in the 100 butterfly in 51 seconds flat. The

boys 200- and 400 free relay teams also qualified for State. The 400 relay squad of Mathijs Dirven, Connor Sullivan, Mathew Cheang and Joshua Naim took fifth in 3:09.32. The 200 relay team of Lonergan, Eduardo Lasso, Liam Amburgey and Sullivan placed seventh in 1:26.58. Sullivan took 10th in the 100 free in 46.89 seconds, and Dirven finished 12th in the 50 free in 21.59 seconds. Palo Alto Pool Performances

Los Gatos also received some standout performances in the 1-meter diving competition, which was held on April 30 at Palo Alto High.

In the boys event, Parsa Nolan placed seventh with 415.30 points. In the girls competition, Maddy Wong placed 10th with 412.40 points.

SHE’S FAST Wildcats senior Karly Frangieh took second place in the 50-yard and 100-freestyle races— setting school records in both events—in the CCS Championships on May 4 at Independence High.

Jonathan Natividad

VILLA MONTALVO BLOOMS DURING WEEKEND ART GATHERING

Foundation supporting seniors holds inaugural matinée movie

Dinah Cotton, Contributor

This past Saturday evening, Villa Montalvo came alive with art, in spite of the unexpected rain.

Over the past 20 years, the Lucas Art Program has hosted over 1,300 resident artists at Montalvo.

Eleven studios were open for tour and exploration.

This evening started with appetizers, then got into full-swing with a modern dance performance and announcements of Marcus Prizes for 2024.

A welcome was provided by Angela McConnell, with remarks by Kelly Sicat and Madeline Lucas was the special guest speaker.

Afterwards, a bus began to take attendees around these beautiful grounds to the studios.

A "light show" was offered after dark by Akiko Yamashita, with music provided by DJ Chale Brown. “Poetry Out Loud” was curated by Sally Ashton

After snacking on what was the longest sushi table that I have ever seen, we were treated to some modern interpretive dance. Dancers from Kinetech Arts, wearing electronic devices, performed an interactive dance.

With a few adjustments, due to the surprise rainfall, this was a perfect evening to get your art on.”

The book “Hello, Goodbye, Hello,” chronicling past artists-in-residence, was available for purchase.

Jennifer DiNapoli spearheaded significant fundraising and local generous contributions were made by: The Lucases , Barry and Jo Ariko , George and Judy Marcus

This was a marvelous, well-planned experience with most of the arts represented: dance to poetry—and everything in between.

Los Gatos goes to the movies to support Older Adults

Monday, May 6, was the first get-to-

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gether of “Los Gatos Thrives Foundation for Older Adults” at the Los Gatos Theatre.

About 100 folks had signed-up for the very first viewing in the new movie series.

This event will continue to be held on the first Monday of the month, unless it falls on a holiday.

Mayor Mary Badame and Paul Gunsky (owner of CineLux) were said to be particularly excited for this inaugural event, presenting “The Fall Guy.”

This new 501c3 nonprofit’s mission is to “make Los Gatos an age-friendly community for older adults to live engaged and meaningful lives.”

Sponsors included CineLux Los Gatos Theatre and Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Co.

Part of the Town’s agreement with CineLux is that they provide six non-profit events per year.

The Art Deco-style cinema proved quite the magnet for locals on Monday, as $10 included the movie, coffee and a pastry.

Paul Gunsky , owner of CineLux, said it was an “absolute pleasure” to host this for Los Gatos Thrives.

➝ Weekend Art Event, 11

ARTSY A 20th anniversary celebration for the Lucas Artists Program was held last weekend at Villa Montalvo.

SHAQIR BROTHERS WELCOME COMMUNITY TO NEW RESTAURANT

Grand Opening, from page 1

that arrived as the party kicked-off. The mood was festive, with live music by Gypsy Tribe. Alongside other libations, an open bar featured mixed drinks made with High Noon Whiskey. Beverage companies sent representatives to pour wines from all over the world, including Banshee Brut sparkling wine from Sonoma.

People kept coming and very few left. They feasted on lamb meatballs, grilled prawns, fragrant and flavorful eggplant crostini, olives wrapped with anchovies, and caprese skewers—brought out by the trayful and quickly consumed. Chef Esam looked relaxed and completely thrilled at the turnout, telling me that everything was gelling at the restaurant, which opened in March. “We have the right team, good staffing levels, and we are very much in sync with our customers,” he said. “It feels like we are really getting there.”

In attendance was a who’s who of Los Gatos, including Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jennifer Lin, renowned flamenco guitarist Roderigo Teague and his wife Missy, Carolyn DuClos, author of “A Suitcase Full of Cookies,” her neighbors Fred and Ev Gerbino and photographer Arnold Breit, who had a long career in hospitality.

The Shaqir brothers were born and raised in the Middle East before immigrating to the United States in 1994, where they lived briefly on the east coast before coming to California. Both have deep ties to the community, having worked at Bella Saratoga (in Saratoga), where they have another restaurant called Tamra Mediterranean Grill—named for the town near Nazareth where their mother sourced her spices.

It is those spices that infuse the food and atmosphere here with Mediterranean warmth and feeling of relaxation. It’s obvious that the two have spent their entire lives perfecting their craft. As he welcomed the stream of guests to what had become a porch party, Milad Shaqir echoed his brother’s sentiments, saying they’re making adjustments to align with community preferences. “Everything is coming together, and I feel we are definitely getting really close to where we want

to be in terms of execution,” he said. “The reception from the community has been so great.”

Chef Esam later explained they are adding some new dinner items, among them a boneless chicken dish served over garbanzo beans, butternut squash and carrots, and two new pasta dishes, which use fresh tagliatelle from a Santa Cruz provider. A Mediterranean pasta dish will star on the lunch menu. It’s made with eggplant, tomato, onion

and peppers, and is topped with feta. Another, a riff on ragù, is made with slow-simmered beef and veal, wholecanned tomatoes and their spices.

“When I’m happy, I get the most creative,” says Chef Esam. He notes that they always have branzino, sea bream and salmon (lunch only) on the menu, and the pomegranate lamb shank is one of their most popular dishes. “We also have a new appetizer of lamb meatballs,” he added. A sizeddown version of this was being con -

sumed at the open house. “These are two large meatballs—very substantial,” he continued. “I feel that you eat first with your eyes.”

To demonstrate, he stepped behind the bar and shook up a signature Dar Garden Martini, made with basil, cucumber and ginger, pouring the lovely light-green liquid into a cocktail glass.

“You must try this sometime,” he said—as off it went to a table of happy diners outside, who were clearly enjoying the sunny afternoon.

Laura Ness / Los Gatan

BOUQUETS Rocking a giant smile, Chef Esam Shaqir carries floral arrangements across the new restaurant he started with his brother.

MATINÉE MOVIE

Weekend Art Event, from page 9

DISHING PASTRIES Teri Hope served coffee and croissants to the 100+ attendees. For $10, you got this and a movie.

“It is a wonderful event to bring the community together on a Monday morning,” he said.

To Women Who Lunch (and Beyond)

On Friday, May 17 from 11am-2pm, the Salvation Army Silicon Valley Women’s Auxiliary is holding its fifth annual “Work of A.R.T.” This luncheon will be held in the garden of a historic Los Gatos home and will feature a silent (but live) auction of a fabulous variety of art.

This garden party showcases a variety of works, pieces that have been generously donated by our local artists.

This event's fundraising will allow underserved children to attend the Salvation Army Camp at Redwood Glen Camp in the Santa Cruz Mountains this summer.

Limited tickets are still available at $125 / person.

This event will be held on a grass lawn, so make sure to bring your flat-bottomed shoes. And get ready to put on the most outrageously-beautiful hat you can get your head under.

For tickets: paybee.io/in-person-event/ sasvart3/12

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APRIL 21

• At 12:39pm a caller reported an auto burglary had occurred on Roberts Road in the proceeding hours, stating their gym bag and other miscellaneous items had been taken.

• A juvenile was reported for riding a mini dirt bike with no helmet at 2:42pm at Harwood Road and Jamie Court.

• Just before 8pm, a caller said a group of five minors damaged their Farley Road home by throwing rocks. The reporting party caught two suspects and suggested a meet with police in front of the Happy Hound eatery.

APRIL 22

• A front license plate was taken sometime overnight from Escobar Avenue.

• A house on Andrews Street was reported to have been burglarized over the previous week. Credit cards, a GoPro camera, gift cards and keys were missing. The reporting party believes the perpetrator is the same person who stole his Audi.

• Police entered a gray four-door Chevy into their system at 4:28pm, noting a video shows a masked man, aged 40-60, taking 15 bottles of high-end wine from Safeway on North Santa Cruz Avenue on April 19.

APRIL 23

• A man was arrested at 7-Eleven on North Santa Cruz Avenue after 1:30am when a caller identified a suspect they said broke their windows, in a previously-reported incident.

• At 2:19am, a 30-year-old man was arrested for burglary and obstructing a peace officer in the 600 block of North Santa Cruz Avenue.

• A gray four-door BMW was cited for blocking a fire hydrant on Towne Terrace at 8:42am.

POLICE BLOTTER

APRIL 24

• A caller said when their grandson came home at 2am, he saw someone inside their vehicle in the driveway. The man reportedly got out and left on a blue bike.

• At 6:06pm, five or six minors on e-bikes were reported by another minor for swerving between vehicles on Bachman Avenue near Bachman Park, after the reporting party had a conversation with a school resource officer.

• Two suspects stole multiple items of unknown value from O’Reilly Auto Parts on Los Gatos Boulevard around 7pm. They left on a blue Kawasaki street bike.

• A Castlewood Drive caller “advised she noticed a man looking in cars”—and around the neighborhood the previous two nights. “But tonight when she came home he was staring into her bathroom window.”

• At 8:10pm, a 58-year-old man was arrested at Clifton Avenue and Broadway for being a felon, or someone with a felony warrant, in possession of a firearm, and for threatening a crime with intent to terrorize.

APRIL 25

• A white Honda CRV collided with a blue Toyota Prius at Aventino Apartments on Winchester Circle around 8:30am. No one was injured.

• At 10:07am, police received a complaint about an air horn sounding about 10 times over the prior five minutes at Creekside Sports Complex on University Avenue. The reporting party was advised it might not be a violation if it’s associated with a sporting event at the complex.

• A black 4x4 pickup truck was reported for parking in a “red zone” in front of a fire hydrant at Los Gatos Boulevard and Roberts Road at 10:17am. The caller told the male driver not to park there in the past but, “he doesn’t care.”

• At 11:05am, a white Subaru Crosstrek was cited for parking in a handicap spot without a placard at the Club at Los Gatos on East Main Street.

• A silver Subaru Forester collided with a light brown Honda CRV at University Avenue and Blossom Hill Road around 11:53am. No one was injured.

• Four high school-aged suspects in a red Mini Cooper were “sharing pharmaceuticals” in the employee-only parking area off Main Street near Icing on the Cake around 12:35pm.

APRIL 26

• An adult male with a “man bun,” brown coat and shorts was walking in the street at North Santa Cruz Avenue and Los Gatos-Saratoga Road hitting cars around 11:15am. Police were unable to locate him.

• An older bald man in a pink skirt, with a pink suitcase and floral luggage was talking to himself and reportedly refusing to leave Walgreens on North Santa Cruz Avenue around noon. The caller wanted to press charges for trespassing. Police provided assistance and advice.

• A man was pulling shopping carts and walking into traffic around 2:20pm by Van Meter School.

• At 2:38pm at Caldwell Avenue and Los Gatos Boulevard, a man was reportedly in the middle of the road causing a traffic hazard after removing his pants and pulling them back up.

• A boy was on a cellphone while riding an e-bike—with a passenger who didn’t have a helmet on at 3:13pm at Ohlone Court and Roberts Road.

• About $1,000 in jewelry was reported stolen from an unlocked vehicle on Massol Avenue by an unknown suspect. Her vehicle registration was also taken.

• A man was reported for injecting himself outside the entrance to

the post office on South Santa Cruz Avenue around 3:15pm.

APRIL 27

• Around 10:10am, a suspect stole several razors valued at $90 each, as well as game cylinders and other items, from Walgreens on North Santa Cruz Avenue before fleeing on foot. The caller said the man is a regular customer “who shoplifts regularly” and “doesn’t believe he is unhoused.”

• At 1:08pm, an unknown vehicle dropped a bunch of garbage on Lark Avenue between Oka Road and Winchester Boulevard.

• A beige Volvo SUV was reportedly parked in a loading zone at Cinelux Theatre on North Santa Cruz Avenue just before 3pm with a dog inside and the windows up for about 10 minutes.

• At 10:30pm, someone on Gellatt Court reported their neighbor for playing music “excessively loud.”

Information is compiled from public records released by the Los GatosMonte Sereno Police Department.

CORRECTION

In our May 1, 2024 article titled “Hospital Opens New Mental Health Clinic in Los Gatos,” we had Dr. Shreyas Mallur’s name flippedaround. We regret the error.

Ad GUEST VIEW

CRACKING THE VOLUNTEER CONUNDRUM (WITH A DASH OF DO-GOODER HUMOR)

Are you a “Heads” or “Hands” person?

Jeffrey P. Blum, Contributor

Let's face it, volunteering is awesome. It's the ultimate chance to be a superhero in your civilian clothes. But for many of us, the question of how to best contribute can turn into a fullblown cape-wrangling crisis. Do we dive headfirst into hands-on tasks, or strategize in the Batcave of committee meetings?

There's the undeniable charm of hands-on heroism. Remember that time you wielded a paintbrush like a mighty sword, vanquishing the drab exterior of a mobile home with Rebuilding Together? Or maybe you embraced your inner Santa (or Hanukkah Bob), stuffing backpacks with school supplies for the Jewish Family Services backpack drive? You see the direct impact—the smiles you helped create—proving you're making a real difference. High-five for that! But hold on, Bat-fans! Don't underestimate the power of the planning pow-wow. Those meetings where volunteers huddle up—brainstorming fundraising strategies and event plans—are where the magic can really happen. These folks are the strategists, the Bat-computers behind the scenes, ensuring every good deed has a lasting impact. Plus, it's a chance to flex your mental muscles and meet other like-minded do-gooders. So, which path is the ultimate key to volunteer nirvana? The answer… It depends. Here's how to navigate this delightful dilemma:

• Skills & Interests: Do you crave instant action and the satisfaction of seeing immediate results? Sounds like you’re a hands-on person. But wait! Maybe you also have a hidden talent for planning the perfect good-deed attack. The good news is many organizations, such as Rotary Club of Los Gatos, offer both types of opportunities.

• Time Commitment: Hands-on

gigs can often be tackled in shorter bursts, while meetings might require a more regular schedule. Think about your availability and choose the path that best fits your super-powered lifestyle.

• The Needs of the Organization:

Many organizations are desperate for both the Batmans and the Alfreds (no insult intended to anyone who happens to have that name) of the volunteer world. Ask around to learn where your skills are in demand. Both types of volunteering are critical. The folks serving meals at a shelter wouldn't be there without the tireless work of fundraisers and planners. Likewise, the most meticulously planned gala falls flat without the volunteers on the ground. It's a beautiful, symbiotic relationship.

Here's a cheat sheet to help you decide: Hands-on

• Pros: See the impact, gain new skills, feel good instantly (high-five!)

• Cons: Might not be super brain-teasing, results might not be immediate, physical limitations could apply.

Meetings & Planning

• Pros: Flex your mental muscles, shape the organization's future, meet awesome people.

• Cons: Results might not be as tangible, meetings can be time-consuming, might be less social.

The Ultimate Takeaway?

Admittedly, I’m often confused about which way to go myself. Sometimes I crave action like a hummingbird on Red Bull; other times I want to be one ant in an army organizing a food drive. However, I’ve volunteered in many capacities, meaning I am probably somewhat equipped to give guidance. Bottom line: get involved. It beats spending time agonizing about the latest craziness found in our local, international and world news. Whether you're a strategic thinker or a hands-on doer, there's a volunteer opportunity with your name on it.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Fictitious Business Name Statements

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #704882

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Papeleria Card Co, 2 Pierce Avenue, San Jose, CA, 95110, Humberto Martinez. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Humberto Martinez. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/08/2024. (pub LG 04/17, 04/24, 05/01, 05/08/2024)

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME #704937

The following person(s) / registrant(s) has / have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s): Mark Butler Photography, 1311 Happy Valley Ave., San Jose, CA, 95129, Mark Butler. Filed in the Santa Clara County on 04/14/2021. under file No. 674162. This business was conducted by: A Individual. Filed on 4/09/2024. /s/Mark W. Butler (pub dates: (04/17, 04/24, 05/01, 05/08/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #704992

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. Hay Kay Services, 929 Story Rd., San Jose, CA, 95122, Hay Kay LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 04/10/2024. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Hien A Cao. Manager #202461614429. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/10/2024. (pub LG 04/17, 04/24, 05/01, 05/08/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #703731

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: EGR Landscape, 2152 Interbay Dr., San Jose, CA, 95122, Enrique Garcia. This business is being conducted by a Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 03/01/2024. /s/Enrique Garcia. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/04/2024. (pub Metro 04/17, 04/24, 05/01, 05/08/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #704331

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. Le Cake, 2. Le Cake by J, 19644 Ashton Ct., Saratoga, CA, 95070, Youngjoon Jeong. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business

under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 03/21/2024. /s/Youngjoon Jeong. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/21/2024. (pub LG 05/01, 05/08, 05/15, 05/22/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #704903

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MMECSJ, 361 S Willard Ave Apt 2, San Jose, CA, 95126, Jose De Jesus Valazquez Tejeda. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 10/15/2021. /s/Jose De Jesus Velazquez Tejeda. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/08/2024. (pub LG 05/01, 05/08, 05/15, 05/22/2024)

File Number: FBN705352 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: Spine and Sports Surgery Center, 429 LLewellyn Ave, Campbell, CA 95008. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, Spine Sports Surgery Center, LLC, 429 LLewellyn Ave, Campbell, CA 95008. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 04/22/2024 and 04/22/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. Spine Sports Surgery Center, LLC, Article/Reg # 201227610279, Above Entity was Formed in the State of CA. /s/ Carrie Seim /s/ Administrator. (Pub LGN: 05/01, 05/08, 05/15, 05/22/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #705500

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Made By Tiffany, 1434 Carnot Dr., San Jose, CA, 95126, Tiffany Ka-Yee Lau. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/28/2024. /s/Tiffany K Lau. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/26/2024. (pub LG 05/08, 05/15, 05/22, 05/29/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #705509

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Skintamin Inc., 2551 Sierra Monte Way, San Jose, CA, 95116. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 04/22/2024. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Marsha Nguyen. Owner. #6146718. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/26/2024. (pub LG 05/08, 05/15, 05/22, 05/29/2024)

Lucy Wedemeyer Broker

lucy@serenogroup.com

408-891-6861

DRE# 00640875

Keith Andry Associate/Broker

408-891-4151

keith@serenogroup.com

DRE# 01470

Extraordinary marketing exper tise fueled with contagious enthusiasm de nes Lucy Wedemeyer as a “RockStar” Real Estate Broker

She’s one of the most recognized and highly respected Realtors in the Bay Area, consistently awarded Top 1% distinction Keith Andry with a BS in Finance joined his Award-Winning Mother-in-Law in 2000.

As founding members of SERENO, they’ve curated an extensive network of professionals as an integral par t of enhancing clients proper ties for market. Both exude unsurpassed pro-active visions as Brokers and Cer ti ed Negotiation Exper ts; re ective of 90% referral business as they strive to exceed expectations to accomplish client’s goals and dreams