They trained at Saratoga dance school for months to prepare for special performance
D
, Editor
Last month, Los Gatos 14-yearold Dhiya Padmanabhan and her friend Dhiya Shradha Naravanan, who is going into Grade 12 at Lynbrook High School in San Jose, held a dance fundraiser based on classical South Asian dance forms to raise money for people who need eye surgery in rural India.
“The girls reached their fundraising goal one day before the event,” says Padmanabhan’s mom, Vidhya Venkitakrishnan.
“We stand at $8,094 as of today.”
Dhiya had been working with Milpitas-based Sankara Eye Foundation on a volunteer writing project, so when her friend’s grandmother spoke about her need for cataract surgery in both eyes on a video call, Venkitakrishnan pointed her in the direction of that nonprofit.
“They provide free cataract eye surgery for underserved people in rural India,” Venkitakrishnan said. “Each of these surgeries costs only $30 for one eye.”
While Naravanan’s grandma, who lives in India, could afford to pay for her surgery, the girls couldn’t help but think about all the people who live nearby who can’t afford what costs no
MAGIC DAZZLES EN ROUTE TO NORCAL TITLE
LGCS Softball team is a tour de force
E manu E l l EE , Sports Editor
Once the Los Gatos-Cupertino-Saratoga (LGCS) Magic 12U(A) softball team was assembled in the fall of 2024, it proceeded to play 15 tour -
naments spanning the next 40 weeks.
However, nothing could top the Magic’s dazzling run through the USA Softball Northern California Championship Tournament, culminating with a 14-0 victory over the San Lorenzo Heat in the title contest on June 29 in Hayward.
The Magic ran roughshod over the competition, going 4-0 and outscoring their opponents by a combined margin of 26-5. In winning its first NorCal championship in 11 years, LGCS was invited to play in the Western
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VOL.4 NO.46
Dan Pulcrano
Executive Editor & Publisher
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PLAZA DE CESAR CHAVEZ DOWNTOWN SAN JOSE
MUSICAL Ren Geisick is set to serenade the outdoor crowd at Plaza Park tonight.
SUMMERTIME MEANS JAZZ ON THE PLAZZ, WITH REN GEISICK SET TO PERFORM
Wednesday’s special program begins early: right at 6pm
D inah c otton , Contributor
At 6pm Wednesday, this week’s Jazz on the Plazz will swing into action with The San Jose Jazz High School All Stars, followed by Ren Geisick and her band at 6:30pm.
Geisick, who grew up in Los Gatos, says playing at Jazz on the Plazz is a real honor, she says.
“I’ve been attending the shows for years and it is really fun to be on the big stage with my band.”
For more info: rensings.com/ theplaceiplannedtogo
Geisick holds a Jazz Vocal Perfor -
mance degree from The Bob Cole Conservatory of Music, Cal State Long Beach, where she was honored with an Ella Fitzgerald Scholarship.
She was also named “Outstanding Jazz Vocalist" from DownBeat Magazine.
Geisick held her first livestream in January 2022.
Her second full length album is coming out this June. It will feature 14 original songs including her single,“Don’t start telling me the truth.”
Her new album will feature songs about outlaws, heartache and mercy, and has the Americana feeling that she is now known for.
Her CDs will be for sale at this event.
Geisick's warm loving voice fills the air with the feeling that everything is alright
Submitted
UPCOMING
July 23 - Monterey Jazz
Regional All-Star Band and Vocal Ensemble
The enthusiasm of youth along with the talent to play and sing jazz.
This is this group's annual appearance on the Plaza. You will hear talented young musicians from high schools across Monterey County performing jazz standards with original arrangements.
This ensemble includes both instrumental and vocal groups supported by experienced Monterey Jazz educators.
Stu Reynolds directs the Regional All-Star Band, which was founded in 1989.
July 30 - Heidi Evelyn with her 14-piece Dance Orchestra
With haunting vintage songs and melodies from the 1920s, 30s and 40s, Heidi, with her melodic voice, will transport you.
From ragtime to New Orleans traditional jazz to vintage swing music, you will not be disappointed.
Heidi is considered to be a leading expert on vintage vocal jazz. Not to be missed.
Bring your dancing shoes, or relax with your favorite summer beverage on the Plaza.
Get out that picnic basket or get take out downtown. See you there.
Aug. 6 - Jazz Mafia
San Francisco collective of musicians, composers and producers, founded in 2000 by trombonist, bassist and arranger Adam Theis.
Jazz Mafia has collaborated with artists such as Roy Ayers, Lyrics Born, Zion-I and Ledisi.
Aug 13 - Jazz-soul vocalist and educator Clairdee
and if it is not it soon will be.
Her sincere relaxing style will soothe you like a forgotten melody.
Her songs are about love, family, sorrow and making fifteen cents on one of her songs—daily life, with depth and understanding.
Jazz on the Plazz is produced by Los Gatos Music & Arts, which hosts free live music performances, nurturing future audiences and artists.
It aims to support artists by hiring original singers, songwriters, musicians and composers. Interested parties can go to jazzontheplazz.com for general information. Admission is free to sit on the shady-sunny grassy areas or to stand around the perimeter.
Jazz vocalist celebrated for her soulful interpretations, magnetic stage presence and commitment to music education.
Aug. 20 - 11-time Grammy Award winner Tony Lindsay & The Soul Soldiers
Lindsay is best-known for his quarter-century as Santana’s singer.
Aug. 22 - After-Jazz on the Plazz Grand Finale
At 5pm head to the Plaza again for “The Endless Summer.”
Live music, featuring The HitMen, dancing, food, beer and wine.
A fundraiser for Counseling & Support Services for Youth “CASSY.” Goes until 8pm.
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FUNDRAISER Los Gatos resident Dhiya Padmanabhan and her friend Dhiya Shradha Naravanan organized and performed in a dance show that raised enough money for 250 eye surgeries.
FUNDRAISER CULMINATES IN COLORFUL DANCING
Fundraiser, from page 1
more than the price of a meal at a restaurant in Silicon Valley.
“They said, 'Let's do a fundraiser,’” Venkitakrishnan recalled. “They started planning it last summer.”
Their goal was to try to raise $3,000 each by holding a special dance performance, since they attend the Shri Krupa school in Saratoga, which is turning 50 this year.
Vishal Ramani, the artistic director, worked with them to develop the program over the ensuing months.
On June 22, the culmination of all their hard work came to life.
“What I saw that day was how deeply connected they were to the cause,” Venkitakrishnan said. “They brought out the classical dance form in a very graceful
and very touching way. The founder of Sankara Eye Foundation was there and he spoke. There were over 250 people who attended the event.”
It included stories based on age-old mythology. And they ended with a dance meant to reflect the beginning of a monsoon, which features a peacock.
They raised enough money to provide surgeries on 250 eyes.
“If they can do it at this age I think everyone can be inspired,” said Venkitakrishnan, noting their efforts have already sparked another similar fundraising effort for Sankara. “We can already see the ripple effects of this in the community.”
For more information visit: give. giftofvision.org/campaign/688587/donate
ENTREPRENEUR Jaclyn Blackwell says she’s filled with gratitude from all the positive experiences she’s had running her boutique.
2 DOWNTOWN BOUTIQUES TO GO FULL-DIGITAL THIS SUMMER
Both shops are now planning to focus on their online presence
Faizi S ama D ani , Contributor
While in many cases, it’s one esteemed restaurant or another that initially attracts visitors to town, and yet, the shops they go on to frequent afterwards—or on the way—also play an important role in fostering that unique downtown atmosphere people love so much.
But now, two retail stores—Jackie ’O and East Kennedy—have announced they will be saying goodbye to their storefronts in the coming weeks.
Though both boutiques will carry on via their e-commerce presence, the goodbye is bittersweet. Because for each, this was more than simply a place of business.
Over the years, each of these shops helped to create a sense of belonging amongst their customers—and for the town as a whole.
Shortly after graduating from Chico State, Jaclyn Blackwell found herself working at a retail location on the corner of North Santa Cruz Avenue and Elm Street at a boutique known as Criv.
She worked there for a few months before taking over the space and starting her own boutique, with a name referencing hers.
Blackwell says the Jackie ‘O origin story involved a bit of fate, since she had mentioned the idea of owning her own store one day—and then the chance suddenly dropped into her lap.
“I always had an eye for fashion, so it was a perfect fit for my career,” she said, reflecting on how her employer present-
ed her with the opportunity. She held an official launch in August 2018.
Becoming a business owner was a big step for Blackwell, as it was the first store she ever owned.
She’d learned some basics from the prior owner, such as how to purchase inventory.
Her mother Andrea is a frequent presence around the shop—regularly taking shifts behind the till.
“It was interesting managing employees as they were once my co-workers,” Blackwell said. “And the help of my mom was huge…I couldn’t have done this without her.”
Blackwell says one of the cool things has been watching the store’s following grow. Plus, she notes, you meet a lot of great people.
“It’s been really rewarding,” she said, noting that she’s really appreciated how complimentary people have been.
One of the biggest accolades was getting nominated for—and then winning—a Best of Los Gatos award—three years in a row.
“It acts as a validation,” she said.
Blackwell’s mother says that she wants customers to know that, although the physical store front is closing by the end of this month, Jackie’O is here to stay: through their online presence.
“Retail always changes,” Andrea said, noting the key is to be versatile and adapt. “I always hear that we have really good quality pieces that are really unique.”
People comment on how their selection includes apparel with plenty of color at a good price point, she continues.
“We don’t fit just one type of girl,” Jaclyn said.
“We sell from girly-girls to edgy, and an age demographic from 18-70,” says her daughter.
It seems that the mother-daughter duo that holds the store up is a fair representation for the buyers as well.
Blackwell remarked on the time a 16-year-old girl and a woman in her 70s came in and purchased the same dress.
Theft in retail
One of the serious challenges Jackie ‘O had to deal with? Theft.
“That was something that really shook me up in the beginning,” Blackwell said.
She realized that, in order to run the shop effectively, she’d have to stand up for herself and confront thieves.
Blackwell recalled a time when a woman attempted to throw her off, while shopping, by picking up multiple sizes of the same dress.
She says the lady hadn’t returned all the items and had stepped out onto the North Santa Cruz Avenue sidewalk.
Blackwell raced outdoors to demand her item back. She also told the shopper how disappointed she was in her behavior, she recalled.
And she became involved in an effort amongst the downtown business community to harden themselves against the scourge of retail theft.
They communicate with one another when a break-in or stealing incident happens, so the suspect is immediately on everyone’s radar.
The retailers had to band together, because a police report can’t be made for theft of less than $1,000, Andrea said.
Blackwell and her mother completed an online course on running an e-commerce site.
They learned about the ins-and-outs of digital ads, and how to target the right audience. And they’re looking at reducing their reliance on middle men.
Blackwell says over the years they’ve seen less foot traffic.
She attributes this, in part, to a drop in business customers coming in, due to the uptick in people working from home, and people avoiding going out due to beachgoers en route to Santa Cruz or Monterey clogging streets. “Saturdays are always our best days, and in the summer time they are our worst days,” Blackwell said, stating that the town needs to find a solution.
Blackwell says that when she was taking the online course last year, the landlord raised their rent by 50%.
She decided it was time to move their operation completely online.
“We knew we had to tell the landlord two months ago on whether we wanted to renew or not, and we came to the decision to leave the storefront,” she said.
Both Blackwell and her mother say that the decision has left them both very sad. They’ve gone through all the waves of highs and lows—from making customer
➝
AdLIVES
Edward C. Stahl
October 6, 1931 – June 28, 2025
Edward C. Stahl, resident of Los Gatos, passed away peacefully at his home in Los Gatos on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the age of 93 with his family and wonderful caregiver Manu by his side. Born in Brooklyn, New York to parents Edward C.M. Stahl and Edith C. Clendenin on October 6, 1931, Edward lived a life full of travel and adventure and had a strong devotion to his family, Church, friends, colleagues and employees.
He was a wonderful husband to his wife Betty, who encouraged his love of travel and was beside him, working together at Travel Advisors of Los Gatos for nearly forty years until her death in 1999.
He was a cherished father to Eric Jochim (Marla), Brad Stahl (Cathy) and Susan Oneal (Jim), grandfather to Keyandra and Aumi Jochim, Dustin (Martina) Timm, Alex (Berto) Rocha, Connor (Alli), Lauren and Emily Oneal. He was also loved dearly by his nephews and nieces and cousins. He was predeceased by his wife Betty, his brother Greeley, his sister Barbara and his brother-in-law David Edwards. Edward graduated from Horace Greeley High School in Chappaqua, NY, and went on to earn a degree in Civil Engineering from Purdue University. Edward proudly served six years in the United States Army Engineering Corps and was stationed in southern Germany, tasked with building bridges over the Rhine and Danube Rivers. Discharged, he pointed his car west, arriving in San Francisco with $14 in his pocket. Ed went to work for Shell Oil Company and in 1957 was given the San Jose District, responsible for building 30 gas stations between San Jose and Pismo Beach while also serving time in the Army Reserve at Camp Roberts. Ed
Store Closing photos: (Andrea + Jaclyn)
the beautiful town of Los Gatos while working with Bill Cilker, building the Shell gas station at the corner of Los Gatos Blvd and Blossom Hill Rd. Also during this time, he fell in love with Betty at a ski club outing and they were married February 6, 1960, and moved to San Jose. Shell Oil Company wanted to promote Edward and move him back to the head office in New York City. He declined the offer since his wife Betty said, “you can go if you want to,” and instead bought Travel Advisors of Los Gatos with Betty and his friends Brad and June Honholt. Travel has always been in Edward’s blood as his parents encouraged this love by traveling as a family in the summers. One summer at age 16, he drove with his mom and sister from NY across the country down through Mexico and back.
would become the oldest person to ever go there. So in August 2021, he did just that. Edward is now listed in the official Guinness Book of World Records, a definite highlight in his life.
Even though he traveled extensively, he was a family man. He loved being with his family and visiting relatives in the US and abroad every chance he got. He was also a man of many talents. He would help with and had a tool for every project. He helped build his home in Los Gatos from Betty’s vision. His beloved pet project was Roaring Camp Railroad in Felton, which he helped design and build the trestle system that is still there today. He took his son Eric every weekend to hike through the redwoods, planning the train track path, teaching him surveying and trying to avoid the poison oak.
SHOP INTERIOR Andrea and Jaclyn Blackwell have been looking back at the ups and downs of Jackie 'O, as their last day in the storefront approaches.
Credit: Faizi Samadani / Los Gatan
(Jaclyn Blackwell)
ENTREPRENEUR Jaclyn Blackwell says she’s filled with gratitude from all the positive experiences she’s had running her boutique.
Credit: Faizi Samadani / Los Gatan
He also never missed going with his buddy Warren Rairden to the Indianapolis 500 car race for 50 years in a row. He was also one of the first travel agents to fly on the Concorde and went on many maiden voyages on the sea and in the air, including the maiden flight on the Pan Am 747 from NY to London and also organizing and leading large groups to the winter and summer Olympics. He was also an avid 49er and Giants fan. Ed traveled the world, visiting just about every corner of the globe. One of his favorite places was Antarctica, which he visited four times. His biggest travel accomplishment occurred late in his life. After going on a trip through the Northwest Passage, he got an itch to venture even farther, to the North Pole. He told his son Brad of his intention to go to visit the magnetic North Pole. Brad got the idea to look up who was the oldest person to ever visit there. Turns out that if Ed completed the journey, he
Ed belonged to many organizations and was not just a member but an active one. His most treasured organization was the Rotary Club of Los Gatos, where he was a member for 63 years and took a turn as President. He was also in the Saratoga Men’s Club, the Sainte Claire Club, Skal International and several other travel organizations. In addition, Edward was an active member of his community by being involved in the parking commission, the Veterans Memorial and helping preserve the carousel at Oak Meadow Park all the while sponsoring many other community projects. Edward was a role model, mentor and friend to many and is already greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice. A memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, July 26, 2025 at 11am at Good Samaritan Episcopal Church, 15040 Union Ave., San Jose, CA 95124.
found
SPORTS
MAGICIANS PROVE THEIR ABILITIES
Magic, from page 1
Nationals—an invitation it declined due to logistical matters.
“We play a lot of tournaments throughout the year, but most of them aren’t USA Softball (sanctioned),” Magic President and Head Coach Chris O’Reilly said. “We do take special pride in going and competing against other USA Softball organizations in the area and beating them, so we’re really proud of the girls.”
The roster includes Addie Lui, Adeline Oh, Olivia Borrelli, Kaitlyn Paige, Lauren O’Reilly, Jeannie Huang, Arianna Reyes, Kayla O’Reilly, Saylor Riera and Kiara Taylor. The coaching staff features O’Reilly and assistant coaches Chris Borelli and Kristen Schueler.
Hours before dominating the Heat, LGCS defeated the Palo Alto Red Hawks, 3-1, in the semifinals. The Magic finished the season with a 20-3 record, improving upon their 15-8 mark from the previous season. This will go down as one of the greatest seasons in program history, after the 2014 team which finished second in the Western Nationals.
That squad was coached by current Los Gatos High School softball coach Randy Frey, who continues to be a vital supporter of the LGCS Magic program. In fact, Frey ran a clinic at LGHS for the Magic players two months ago.
STELLAR The Magic finished the season with a 20-3 record, improving upon their 15-8 mark from the previous one.
CHAMPIONS The LGCS Magic 12U(A) softball team went 20-3 this season, culminating in a USA Softball Northern California Championship on June 29.
AWARDED Chris O'Reilly, president of LGCS Magic, presents a medal to Saylor Riera.
The Magic are the summer/fall travel ball teams of the LGCS Softball Association.
“LGCS and Magic have been incredibly valuable to our community, not just because they develop talented softball players, but because that's where young girls learn a love of the game of softball,” Frey said in a press release. “The success of Magic directly feeds into the strength of our high school program. Almost 100% of my varsity players got their start in LGCS and Magic. It’s wonderful to see this legacy continue.”
The Magic received contributions from their entire roster in NorCals, but it was four players—Paige, Borrelli, Taylor and O’Reilly—who delivered game-changing performances. Paige and Borelli were dynamite in the circle, combining to go 4-0. Paige had 10 strikeouts and Borelli tossed 10 shutout innings.
Taylor, the team’s leadoff hitter, batted .500 with seven runs scored. Meanwhile, O’Reilly hit .554 with a robust 1.425 OPS.
As its name suggests, LGCS draws players from Los Gatos, Cupertino and Saratoga. O’Reilly said that 50% of the players in the program come from Los Gatos, but Saratoga is well represented. One of the Magic’s top players from the 2014 team, Eleni Spirakis, is the daughter of current Saratoga High coach Greg Spirakis, who ran a clinic for the Magic last month.
“We feed into both high schools,” O’Reilly said.
Things are definitely on the upswing for LGCS, which fielded three teams at the 12U level for the first time “in at least a decade,” O’Reilly said. Like all youth sports programs, LGCS saw a precipitous drop in participation numbers in the Covid era. It’s only now that the association is back to what it was pre-Covid time.
“Covid was really hard on us,” O’Reilly said. “We lost a lot of players, coaches and families. As a community softball organization, it’s very tough to come back from that. But thankfully we’ve come back. Over the last two to four years, we’ve had a critical mass of players we’ve been developing, and it’s in the last six months where you’re really seeing the performance match all the hard work.”
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Credit: Submitted
CHAMPIONS The LGCS Magic 12U(A) softball team went 20-3 this season, culminating in a USA Softball Northern California Championship on June 29.
PHOTO2 on p8
STELLAR
The Magic finished the season with a 20-3 record, improving upon their 15-8 mark from the previous one.
PHOTO3 on p9AWARDED Chris O'Reilly, president of LGCS Magic, presents a medal to Saylor Riera.
Jump Head: Magic runs roughshod over the competition Jump Head option2: MAGICIANS
PROVE THEIR ABILITIES
PQ - "You're really seeing the performance match all the hard work."
Let us help you with your next rebranding, product launch, media campaign, digital initiative, website redesign or image refresh.
—Chris O'Reilly, head coach
identity + strategy + design
PHOTO
POLICE BLOTTER
DESIGNER MAKEUP HEIST, DOWNED WIRES AND A PLASTIC CUP FIGHT (JULY 6-JULY 12)
SUNDAY, JULY 6
• At 11:42am, an auto burglary occurred on Sisters Court. Losses totaled $80 and were taken from an unlocked vehicle. Four subjects were identified looking through the vehicle via video cameras in the surrounding area. One was allegedly holding a weapon.
• Two incidents of petty theft were recorded later in the day.
• At 12:20pm, a front license plate was stolen off of a vehicle on Mozart Avenue. The second incident occurred a few minutes later at Oak and Rye on North Santa Cruz Avenue. The stolen items were not identified by the Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department.
MONDAY, JULY 7
• A stolen vehicle was reported at 11:40am on Blossom Hill Road. The Toyota was last seen at 9:00 am and all keys are accounted for.
• Later in the day, at 7:39pm, an incident of grand theft was reported on Arnerich Road. Construction equipment was taken from the scene and was captured on video.
TUESDAY, JULY 8
• At 4:26pm, an incident of battery occurred at Vasona Creek Healthcare on Los Gatos Boulevard. Two patients at the healthcare center threw plastic cups and water at one another and had to be separated by nurses and certified nursing assistants.
• In the evening, three instances of juvenile disturbance were reported. All three happened after 7pm and involved subjects on electric ‘e’ bikes.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 9
• At 1:50pm, at the Sephora on University Avenue, five thousand dollars-worth of Dior and Yves Saint Laurent products were stolen. Both suspects were women who were last seen exiting the
store on foot, the vehicle used to flee the scene is unknown.
• In the early afternoon, at 2:29pm, a suspicious vehicle was reported outside of the Jewish Family Services on University Avenue. The suspect vehicle, a burgundy Toyota RAV4, was stationed outside for 45 minutes.
• At 4:31pm, an unknown subject threw a large river rock through an office window on Via Palomino. The window was shattered and a bookshelf inside the office unit was damaged.
THURSDAY, JULY 10
• Two trespassing incidents occurred in the early morning.
• The first, at 8:03am, occurred at Green Health Wellness on Winchester Boulevard. The subject has been present at the location for two consecutive days.
• Over an hour later, an individual was reported to be trespassing at 9:36am at March Development Company on
Winchester Boulevard. The subject was smoking cigarettes and refused to vacate the premises after being asked by the reporting person.
FRIDAY, JULY 11
• Six parking violations were recorded throughout the day.
• At 7:03pm, telephone wires were reported to be down at the House of Hope on Los Gatos Boulevard. A falling tree caused the wires to come down, but no sparks or flames were reported in the area. No injuries were incurred by the reporting person.
• Around 9:30pm, officers responded to a roll over crash at West Main Street and Bayview Avenue. Police said an intoxicated driver failed to negotiate a turn in the roadway and struck a stone retaining wall with her vehicle. She was helped out from the vehicle with minor injuries and was transported to the hospital where she was cited for the DUI and admitted for injuries.
• A few hours later, officers conducted a traffic enforcement stop on a vehicle at North Santa Cruz Avenue and Blossom Hill Road. Three Monterey County residents were cited for possession of narcotics, possession of a baton and possession of an illegal dirk/dagger.
SATURDAY,
JULY 12
• A prowler was reported on Longwood Drive at 10:31pm. The witness identifies several people in his backyard and contacted the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office before being transferred to the local police department.
These reports are compiled from publicly-available information released by the Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department.
You can join the LGMSPD for an evening of fun for all ages at the National Night Out event Aug. 5 from 5-7pm in Town Plaza Park. It will feature cornhole, a dunk tank, mini motorcycle rides for kids, ice cream decorating station, coffee and more.
You'll be able to visit with the Santa Clara County Fire Department, LGMSPD, CERT and DART teams and the Los Gatos Monte Sereno Police Foundation. For more info: jrose@losgatosca.gov or call 408-354-6853.
NEEDLES & MORE On July 11, police said they responded to a crash involving an intoxicated driver, and then a few hours later cited Monterey County residents for drugs and weapon offenses.
At Ellore, we delight in providing care designed around you, with service that anticipates your every need. With on-site primary and specialized care seamlessly coordinated by our dedicated team, you’re free to focus on what matters most. From scheduling appointments to managing prescriptions, we take care of the details, so you can simply enjoy the moments that make life meaningful.
MY WEEK IN DES MOINES, IOWA TOOK A SURPRISING, AND UNFORGETTABLE, TURN
Stampede at Speech and Debate Nationals results in some hospitalizations
a nthony l uo , Intern
Last month, students from Saratoga High School’s speech and debate club joined over 7,000 high schoolers from across the nation at the annual National Speech and Debate Tournament in Des Moines, Iowa. Saratoga sent its largest contingent in more than 15 years to the week-long competition, held during the centennial celebration of the National Speech and Debate Association.
But it would prove to be an historic edition for another reason entirely.
From June 15-20, eight competitors, led by coaches Jenny Cook and Steve Clemmons, traveled to high schools across Iowa to compete in various events.
Graduating seniors Ashish Goswami and Leonardo Jia, and rising seniors Anthony Luo and Jet Tsang placed eighth and 25th, respectively, in Public Forum debate, while rising junior Sanyukta Ravishankar reached elimination rounds in Extemporaneous Debate; these performances earned the school an award for Debate Schools of Excellence for the first time in school history.
Graduating seniors Timothy Leung and Kinnera Potluri reached semifinals and octafinals, respectively, in Humorous Interpretation, while rising junior Devika Nair reached elimination rounds in Storytelling.
I was fortunate enough to be one of the school’s representatives at this tournament, a journey which began months before we flew to Des Moines.
Qualifying for the National Tournament in debate meant placing in the top three at a local district tournament, which was held this March at Bellarmine College Preparatory—Goswami and Jia placed second, while my partner and I placed third.
Over the next three months, we worked with teammates and friends across the country to prepare arguments and rebuttals for both sides of the tournament's topic—whether the benefits of presidential executive orders outweigh the harm.
By early June, we had spent dozens of hours researching our American history, compiling decades’ worth of evidence and applying our knowledge in practice debates. A week after our senior teammates walked across the stage at their graduation, we met at Saratoga High one last time to finalize our preparation before departing for Iowa.
Arriving at Des Moines International Airport on the night of Saturday, June 14, we were met with thunderstorms and a constant flurry of rain, which persisted throughout the night.
We spent Sunday at the Iowa Events Center celebrating 100 years of the NSDA, with competition rounds starting on Monday at Jefferson High School.
With almost 300 teams spending more than 12 hours every day competing, the National Tournament was an amazing opportunity to meet passionate students from a myriad of backgrounds; we spent our time with teams from Minnesota, Florida and Texas, as well as with familiar faces from across California.
By Wednesday, the tournament had entered elimination rounds, with competition getting tighter and tighter every hour. While my partner and I were eliminated in the 10th round (placing 25th overall), we were able to cheer on our graduating seniors as they reached the quarterfinal round on Thursday.
That same day, while our coach and one of my teammates watched the final round of Humorous Interpretation at the Iowa Events Center, a young man entered the stage area, taking off a backpack in front of the audience, which
sent the audience scrambling. Some attendees interpreted this as a bomb or shooting threat.
The Perrin Institution, a think-tank at the University of Virginia, reported that the following stampede led to at least three hospitalizations, with others discussing their injuries on social media.
A 22-year-old named Jayden Roccaforte was later charged with possession of controlled substances and disorderly conduct. Police said they found marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms. Even the Hindustan Times, in India, reported on the case. Ultimately, the tournament was able to continue, with additional security and bag checks, ending on Friday.
Since the incident, the Debate Hotline, a nonprofit expanding access to debate, began a change.org petition condemning the NSDA for attempting to hastily resume the competition and demanding the tournament improve security measures.
“For an organization that has long championed the voices of young America, (the NSDA’s) inability to hear the screams and anguish of students demonstrates a new level of negligence and shamelessness,” the petition, which has almost 1,000 signatures, reads.
For more than 6,000 students, including myself, this was our first experience at the National Speech and Debate Tournament. And while, on one hand, it cemented rising fears of mass violence across the nation, it simultaneously reminded us that rhetoric—from playful speeches to heated cross-examinations—remains a powerful vehicle for advocacy and change.
CENTENNIAL The National Speech and Debate Association was founded in 1925 as the National Forensics League, and has held an annual national tournament for high schools since 1931.
EL CAMINO HEALTH HOLDING HEALTH CLINIC FOR
MEN
IN LG
The event will include an “Ask the Doctor” experts panel
S ta FF r EP ort
This Saturday, El Camino Health is hosting a free Men’s Health Fair—a community event where attendees can connect directly with leading medical experts, gain valuable insights into men’s health issues, and enjoy a morning focused on proactive wellness.
For over 15 years, El Camino Health’s Men’s Health Program has provided expert care, preventive screenings and access to specialized treatment for a wide range of health concerns affecting men in our community.
Highlights Include:
• “Ask the Doctor” tables with nearly 20 health specialties
• Prostate cancer lecture with Shahram Gholami, MD, Urologist
• Heart health lecture with Anthony Ea, DO, Cardiologist
• Free barbecue lunch for all attendees
Details: Saturday, July 19, 2025, 10am–1pm, El Camino Health - Los Gatos Hospital Campus, 815 Pollard Rd., Los Gatos. While the event is free, space is limited, and advance registration is encouraged.
More information: elcaminohealth.org/ landing/menshealthfair2025
Ad
Directory Services
(NSDA 100 photo)
Credit: Anthony Luo
CENTENNIAL The National Speech and Debate Association was founded in 1925 as the National Forensics League, and has held an annual national tournament for high schools since 1931.
(Saratoga Team Photo)
Credit: Anthony Luo
AWARDS From left to right: junior Devika Nair, senior Jet Tsang, graduating seniors Leonardo Jia and Ashish Goswami, senior Anthony Luo, and junior Sanyukta Ravishankar celebrate the end of the tournament at the Iowa Events Center; Jia and Goswami won eighth place in Public Forum debate. (Trophy)
Credit: Anthony Luo TROPHIES Graduating seniors Ashish Goswami and Leonardo Jia with their coach, Jenny Cook. Cook, a member of the NSDA Hall of Fame, joined the team in 2023. PQ: EVEN THE HINDUSTAN TIMES REPORTED ON THE DANGEROUS INCIDENT
in focus at an upcoming event hosted by El Camino Health.
GUEST VIEW
LEGAL LEGEND ACTED WITH GRACE UNDER PRESSURE
Bob Hoover was more than just an exceptional attorney
JEFF r E y P. B lum , Contributor
The world of family law is often a battleground. Yet, even in such a demanding arena, some individuals rise above the fray. Bob Hoover, a Santa Clara County family law attorney who practiced for over 60 years before his passing at 93, was one such person.
A display of character
I once opposed Bob in a horrific case. My client, consumed by the anguish of his marriage's end, made a desperate, tragic choice that dramatically altered his life, his wife’s life, and his relationship with his children. Despite the emotional toll and the complexity of the situation, Bob skillfully won the case.
What defined that experience, and indeed Bob’s character, wasn't just his legal victory, but his conduct in its aftermath. After the case concluded, Bob regularly sent me notes during the holidays. At first, I grimaced when I received them. But, as time passed I came to cherish his willingness to move forward. Decades later, his astonishing recall of the case’s details was matched only by his gracious praise for my efforts on behalf of my client. It was a powerful reminder that even in fierce legal combat, one can maintain profound respect for an adversary.
Beyond the briefs
Bob chronicled his six-decade career in a two-volume book, a testament to his deep knowledge of family law. I had the privilege of editing his work and was struck by his humility regarding his writing skills.
We even engaged in spirited debates, particularly on his observation that the arrival of female attorneys had negatively impacted family law (ironically, his law firm is now filled with female attorneys). Yet, even when our viewpoints diverged, he always engaged with an open mind.
Years later, over lunch, I remember how he’d go from critiquing his own work to sharing guidance and compliments.
REST IN PEACE Bob Hoover made a lasting impression on many.
His willingness to provide me—a former opponent—mentorship speaks volumes about his character and his commitment to the broader legal community.
The enduring impact of gratitude and connection
Bob’s professional legacy is being carried on by son Jim and Jim's partner, Travis Krepelka. It grew into the largest family law firm on the peninsula. Yet, it was the annual birthday celebrations hosted by Jim and Travis that perhaps best encapsulate Bob’s spirit. Attended by friends, colleagues and judges, they’re a testament to the profound respect and affection he garnered.
Bob’s speeches there were legendary. Delivered without notes, they were always witty, compelling and filled with gratitude for the people and moments in his life. He spoke of simple pleasures, like listening to my fiancé, Lissa, on her morning radio show, finding a smile before tackling his day. Considering these moments underscores for me how Bob was a man who, despite his professional achievements, never lost sight of what’s truly important.
A
lesson for Los Gatos
Bob Hoover, a long-time Los Gatos resident, was more than just an exceptional attorney. He was a living example that true strength in any profession, particularly one as demanding as the law, comes not just from winning. It’s how you play the game. His life demonstrates that professionalism isn't merely about adhering to rules, but about embodying respect, maintaining grace under pressure and extending civility even to those with whom you disagree.
In our increasingly polarized world, Bob Hoover’s approach—his ability to be a formidable advocate while remaining a true gentleman—is one we could all learn from.
Submitted
IN-PERSON PLANS PAUSED
Stores, from page 7
connections and even hosting pop-ups, to making it through the Covid-19 pandemic and watching the political winds change direction around them, as well.
Blackwell says, these past few years, she’s grown a lot. And she’s really grateful for everything she’s gained during her tenure at 48 N. Santa Cruz Ave.
Blackwell’s next move is to work in recruiting in San Diego while she still maintains her online presence. She says she’ll be bringing plenty of communications and sales skills along with her.
The closing of the store is slated for July 30. All items are 40% off until then.
East Kennedy
Sharing a wall with Jackie’O is a retailer with an eclectic history by the name of East Kennedy.
Hayley Aurelio grew up in Los Gatos in the neighborhood of East Kennedy off of Kennedy Road—hence the name.
She began working on the business venture in 2014.
“We started with staging and interior design as a start, and became a retail store in 2019,” she said. “In July of 2020, we moved onto North Santa Cruz Avenue—moving from village lane.”
During their Village Lane days, Aurelio would host parties (including a champagne and braid bar) to bring in traffic, which helped to build their community.
She opened a retail store that primarily featured homewares and gifts in 2019.
At the end of 2020, Aurelio expanded into apparel.
Aurelio also designed the bar “Number 1 Broadway,” located above Rural Supply downtown, doing their interior planning.
It got to the point where Aurelio says she couldn't be in the store during the day, so she stopped taking private clients in 2022.
Instead, she turned her attention to bringing in new offerings to her store.
Aurelio says she sees the town changing. There is less emphasis on community, she opines.
She says a lot of things are different now, after the pandemic.
“In the beginning of opening on North Santa Cruz Avenue, we did have attendance in the parties we threw, and people were craving to be around other people—since we were locked away for so long,” she said. “But eventually, there was this shift.”
Aurelio says she's considering moving out of Los Gatos entirely.
“My dream was to live in a Hallmark town and own my own boutique,” she said. “And that can't happen anymore.”
Of course, the rent hike was a big factor (they share a landlord with Jackie ‘O).
Aurelio says they’re already up-andrunning online—and they’ll still do private styling.
That’s not to say that they won't reemerge as a brick and mortar, at some point in the future.
Aurelio says she’s definitely enjoyed running a business with a storefront.
But, at least for now, she sees a town in transition, and she says she’ll wait to see what happens.
“Los Gatos is my home, where I had my children and where my family lived,” she said. “I wanted this store to be a place for my kids to work at while they are in school.”
That plan is on pause, for now.
The reason that she and her husband moved back from Los Angeles was for the sense of community and because of how safe it is compared to other areas.
But Aurelio is concerned about the shifting small-town balance.
To her customers over the years, Aurelio says, “We are so grateful for their support and believing in us—and making this little dream work, for half a decade. And we're still around!”
SHOP INTERIOR Andrea and Jaclyn Blackwell have been looking back at the ups and downs of Jackie 'O, as their last day in the storefront approaches.
Name Changes
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME. Case No. 25CV468746. Notice of Petition of Rita Alisha Lippi. Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. To all interested persons: Petitioner: Rita Alisha Lippi filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: a. Rita Alisha Lippi, b. (aka) Rita Alisha-Lippi Keller to Proposed name: Alisha Lippi Keller. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: Date: September 23, 2025, Time: 8:45 AM, Room: Probate . The address of the court is: 191 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95113, Downtown Superior Court. A copy of this Order To Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Los Gatan 107 Dakota Ave Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Date: June 26, 2025. /s/ Le Jacqueline Duong /s/, Judge of the Superior Court, Filed by /s/ D. Bueno /s/, Deputy Clerk. (Pub LGN: 07/02, 07/09, 07/16, 07/23/2025)
Fictitious Business Name Statements
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #717285
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MTY Auto Repair Body Shop, 1415 Laurelwood Rd, Santa Clara, CA, 95054, JLF Company LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/01/2025. /s/Luis Felipe Irigon S Nasciutti. Manager. #202132710537. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 06/20/2025. (pub LG 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #717284
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MTY Auto Glass, 1415 Laurelwood Rd, Santa Clara, CA, 95054, JLF Company LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/01/2025. /s/Luis Felipe Irigon S Nasciutti. Manager. #202132710537. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 06/20/2025. (pub LG 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #715815
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Mi Tierra Mercado Y Taqueria, 1130 E Santa Clara St., Suite C, San Jose, CA, 95116, Socias De Mi Tierra. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/01/2025. /s/Connie Alvarez. Director. #B20250063798. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/29/2025. (pub LG 06/11, 06/18, 06/25, 07/02/2025)
File Number: FBN717134. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 13 WYNX STUDIO, 125 E Sunnyoaks Ave, Suite #212, Campbell, CA 95008. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, KIKO INVESTMENT INC, Suite #212, 125 E Sunnyoaks Ave, Campbell, CA 95008. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 06/10/25 and 06/13/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. Kiko Investments Inc, Article/Reg #6477952, Above Entity was Formed in the State of California. /s/ Yara Shouman /s/ Owner. (Pub LGN: 07/02, 07/09, 07/16, 07/23/2025)
File Number: FBN717474. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: HCG CONSULTING , 4808 Pine Forest Place, San Jose, CA 95118. This business is conducted by: An Individual, HOLLY C GERANEN, 4808 Pine Forest Place, San Jose, CA 95118. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Not Applicable and 06/26/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Fraulein Dominguez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Holly C Geranen /s/. (Pub LGN: 07/16, 07/23, 07/30, 08/06/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #715037
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Catered Corners, 15559 Union Ave, #128, Los Gatos, CA, 95032, Nayelli Mcchesney. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 3/28/2025. /s/ Nayelli Mcchesney. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/28/2025. (pub LG 05/21, 05/28, 06/04, 06/11/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #717711
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Denari Threads, 4279 Redwood Retreat Rd., Gilroy, CA, 95020, Freshly Picked Farms LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. 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/Benny Denice. Manager. #202565218491. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 07/07/2025. (pub LG 07/16, 07/23, 07/30, 08/06/2025)
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