West Valley Outlook - August 2025

‘Right now, I’m learning…’ Stories of curiosity and personal growth across generations

BY MENDY MAO

Don't save your paint for when you're not painting. It's time to paint, and you should put big piles of paint on your palette. Don't hold back on your creativity. Challenge yourself. It's always worth it to put in your best effort, no matter what you end up producing.

- Gabriel Coke

Learning happens everywhere, and at every age. We asked members of the local community about what learning means to them, and what they’re learning currently.

Gabriel Coke, founder of the Art Students' Atelier in downtown Saratoga, sees learning as an act of perseverance through challenges. A professional

Los Gatos envisions a gathering place for all generations

Conceptual designs for new community center mark major milestone in campaign to meet town’s growing need for connection and space

BY LYNN BRUNO

The campaign to build a new community center in Los Gatos kicked into high gear in June, when conceptual renderings and floor plans were unveiled at a reception for 90 campaign supporters at The Terraces of Los Gatos. The renderings are the product of input gathered during a yearlong community needs assessment conducted in 2024 by the Los Gatos Thrives Foundation, the nonprofit COMMUNITY CENTER, PAGE 4

artist known for his lifelike portraiture, Coke mentors students in both painting techniques and portfolio development.

Coke’s lessons center around an open learning format. Students can work on their paintings for as long as they’d like during their two-hour classes, with Coke dropping by to answer questions or offer feedback over their shoulders. Around a dozen students perch on stools before easels, brushes

Shakespeare

in hand. Post-its, sculptures and old paintings line the walls of the room and lie propped up in corners.

“I invite students into an environment that is more of an art studio and a place to be an artist more than more than it is a classroom,” Coke said. “You can tell from the room, it's a very unusual environment. And I'm beginning to see a new value, particularly for this generation, to have a place like this that feels LEARNING, PAGE 14

in the Park fosters community and accessibility

Twenty-seven years of Shakespeare in the Park at Sanborn

BY MENDY MAO

Toddlers fence each other with sticks, mimicking the actors they see onstage. The audience gasps at a dramatic showdown between characters. At intermission, people lean over and discuss plot points with their neighbors, buying snacks and raffle tickets. Community members of all ages come together to witness the outdoor performance, and local adults and students bring characters to life onstage.

This is the scene of

a Shakespeare in the Park performance, put on by nonprofit local theater company Silicon Valley Shakespeare (SVS). For 27 years, the company has staged outdoor performances at Sanborn County Park in the Saratoga foothills—part of a summer tradition that now includes three annual shows, including a free one at Willow Street Frank Bramhall Park in Willow Glen.

Audience member Daniel McGillivray watched this year’s Willow Glen show, “The Tempest.” After years of watching Shakespeare in amphitheaters at various locations, he prefers experiencing

plays put on

SHAKESPEARE, PAGE 10

Gabriel Coke, founder of Art Students’ Atelier, stands inside the vibrant Saratoga studio where he teaches lifelike portraiture. The space fosters an open learning environment, where students paint at their own pace surrounded by reference art, sticky notes, and still life setups. PHOTO BY MENDY MAO.

In focus: Monte Sereno Vice Mayor Javed Ellahie and Los Gatos Vice Mayor Rob Moore sit front row for the unveiling of the proposed Los Gatos Community Center. PHOTO BY MARY ELLEN KASCHUB.

STAFF:

Executive Editor & Publisher

Tylor Taylor

tylor@sascc.org

Managing Editor

Brandy Maddox

brandy@sascc.org

Advertising

Ava Toren

ava@sascc.org

Designer

Tanya Marutova

tanya@sascc.org

CONTRIBUTORS:

Mendy Mao

Lynn Bruno

Belal Aftab

Una Daly

Nimai Kumar

Akriti Shrivastava

Sergio Lopez

Monique Beeler

Desiree Aquino

Lloyd Russell

Sue Fenton

Zachary Benitez

Marcia Fariss

WHO WE ARE

The Outlook is a collection of community newspapers serving Los Gatos, Saratoga, Monte Sereno, Santa Clara, and Cupertino. We deliver accessible, uplifting, and hyperlocal journalism that fosters connection, encourages civic engagement, and highlights the people, events, and everyday moments that enrich community life for all ages.

GET IN TOUCH

Send letters to the editor, story ideas, feedback, and questions to outlook@sascc.org. Letters may be edited for length and clarity.

STAY INFORMED - August/September

Council, Commission, & Committee Meetings

City of Los Gatos

Development Review Committee:

Aug. 12, 19, 26, Sept. 2, 9, 10 a.m. (Council Chambers)

View agenda and meeting info at losgatosca.gov/188/ Development-ReviewCommittee

Note: these meetings are often cancelled. Please check the webpage for updates.

Conceptual Development Advisory Committee:

Aug. 13, Sept. 10, 4-5 p.m. (Council Chambers) View agenda and meeting info at losgatosca.gov/200/ Conceptual-Development

General Plan Committee: Aug. 13, Sept. 10, 5:30 p.m. (Council Chambers) View agenda and meeting info at losgatosca.gov/199/ General-Plan-Committee

Planning Commission: Aug. 13, 27, Sept. 10, 7 p.m. (Council Chambers)

View agenda and meeting info at losgatosca.gov/189/ Planning-Commission

Complete Streets and Transportation Commission: Aug. 14, 7:30 a.m. (Parks and Public Works)

View agenda and meeting info at losgatosca.gov/2555/ Complete-StreetsTransportation-Commissi

Town Council: Aug. 19, Sept. 2, 7 p.m. (Council Chambers)

View agenda and meeting info at losgatosca.gov/16/ Town-Council

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Commission: Aug. 21, 5-7 p.m. (Council Chambers)

View agenda and meeting info at losgatosca.gov/2951/ Diversity-Equity-andInclusion-Commissio

Historic Preservation Committee: Aug. 27, 4 p.m. (Council Chambers)

View agenda and meeting info at losgatosca.gov/190/ Historic-Preservation

Finance Commission: Sept. 8, 5:30 p.m. (Council Chambers) View agenda and meeting info at losgatosca.gov /2643/FinanceCommission

View agenda and meeting info at saratoga.ca.us/329/ Traffic-Safety-Commission

Finance Committee: Sept. 8, 4 p.m.

View agenda and meeting info at saratoga.ca.us/359/ Finance-AdvisoryCommittee

City of Saratoga City of

Planning Commission: Aug. 13, Sept. 10, 7 p.m. (Council Chambers)

View agenda and meeting info at saratoga.ca.us/357/ Planning-Commission

City Council: Aug. 20, Sept. 3, 7 p.m. (Council Chambers)

View agenda meeting info at saratoga.ca.us/241/CityCouncil

Traffic Safety Commission: Aug. 28, 6:30-9:30 p.m. (Special meeting, Linda Callon Room)

Parks and Recreation Commission: Sept. 9, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

View agenda and meeting info at saratoga.ca.us/364/ParksRecreation-Commission

City Council: Aug. 19, Sept. 2, 7 p.m. (Council Chambers)

Site and Architectural Commission: Sept. 3, 7 p.m. (Council Chambers)

View all agendas and meeting info at: tinyurl.com/35w4sdsy

Meeting places, Zoom links and call-in information are contained in each respective meeting agenda. Agendas are typically uploaded the Friday before the respective meeting. Please note: all council, commission, and committee meetings are subject to change or cancellation. Check the meeting links prior to each meeting or call your local town clerk for questions.

Saratoga City Clerk’s office: 408-868-1216

Los Gatos Town Clerk’s office: 408-354-6834

Monte Sereno City Clerk’s office: 408-354-7635

Mayor’s Corner: Loss, grace, and the power of small acts

BY BELAL AFTAB, SARATOGA MAYOR

July comes and goes with a blend of sunshine and sorrow for me. Fifteen years ago last month, my father died in a commercial aviation accident, a moment that split my life into a before and an after. Father’s Day and midsummer headlines— whether news of an airline crash in India or conflicts swirling far from our quiet streets— remind me how suddenly life can change.

Loss has many faces. Some endure long journeys through illness, others face the shock of an instant tragedy, and some grieve companions with paws. The route may differ, but the destination—the ache of absence—is universally understood.

Why share this as your mayor? Because grief does not respect titles, postcodes, or calendars. I have learned, in

council chambers and grocery aisles alike, that every person carries an invisible backpack of worries: an unconfirmed diagnosis, a job lost, a loved one slipping away. When we cross paths—on Big Basin Way, at the Farmers’ Market, or online— we rarely glimpse that load. A gentle word or patient ear can lighten it more than we know.

Over the past year, I have heard from neighbors recovering from major heart surgery, caregivers stretched thin, and families mourning sudden accidents. Their stories arrive by email, during office hours, in personal conversations, and sometimes in the passionate public comments that precede a vote. Critique is part of civic life, and I welcome it; still, I remind myself to listen first and take nothing personally. Behind every opinion is a human being with a story that matters. If Saratoga becomes known as a city that chooses

kindness—even marginally above average—I would count that a civic victory. Kindness is not abstract. It shows up in everyday gestures: letting someone merge on SaratogaSunnyvale Road, thanking a crossing guard, checking on the senior down the block who hasn’t put out the recycling bins. Here are three simple, actionable ways we can practice community care this month:

1. Reach out. Think of one person you haven’t seen in a while—maybe a neighbor whose porch light seems dimmer lately. Send a quick text, drop off a flower from your garden, or invite them for a walk under our oaks. Presence often speaks louder than perfect words.

2. Use city resources. Saratoga’s website lists local support groups and volunteer openings (saratoga.ca.us/volunteer). If you have a gift for listening,

In Memoriam: Marilyn White

(1925–2025)

Saratoga lost one of its brightest lights in July. Marilyn White, longtime volunteer, early SASCC board member, and friend to all, passed away at age 100. A full tribute honoring her life and legacy will appear in the September issue of The Outlook.

consider grief-support programs at West Valley Community Services or working with the Saratoga Senior Center. Serving on a city commission is another “light-weight” way to learn about local government while giving back.

3. Lead by example online. Much of our interaction now occurs behind screens on places like NextDoor or Facebook. Before pressing “send,” ask whether your comment builds understanding or piles on hurt. A respectful tone can keep digital debates from spilling into real-world resentment.

Small acts matter. I was taught that even a smile is a charitable gift. Science backs this up: simple expressions of warmth can lower stress hormones for both giver and receiver. Multiply one smile by 31,000 residents, and we are engineering a public-health

intervention disguised as friendliness.

We are fortunate to live in a city blessed with natural beauty and rich history. But redwoods or heritage buildings can’t console a grieving parent or calm an anxious teen. Many of us already serve through synagogues, churches, mosques, sports leagues, and nonprofits. I encourage you to widen the circle—invite friends into your community rituals and be ready to accept their invitations in return. The skills that built faith centers, companies, and youth teams can also strengthen our civic fabric.

Compassion and kindness are contagious. Let us choose to meet one another with patience, generosity, and grace. In doing so, we honor those we have lost and ensure Saratoga remains not just a beautiful place to live, but a gentle one. See you on the sidewalk— with a smile.

CORRECTION : Los Gatos High School Grad Night began in 1959

An article in our June edition stated that Los Gatos High School’s Grad Night tradition began in the mid-1980s. However, we’ve since heard from multiple alumni who fondly recall the event dating back much earlier. According to Bob Balcomb (Class of 1959), the first Grad Night celebration took place in June 1959 and featured a “Pacific Islands” theme, an allnight party in the “Boys Gym,” and a culminating breakfast. John Saunders (Class of 1960) also remembers a lively 1960 Grad Night in the same location, complete with decorations and

a morning meal.

Further insight from LGHS faculty member of 30 years, Patti Hughes, confirmed that 1959 is indeed the start year. The event evolved over the decades: in the early years, it remained largely on campus. In 1973, Hughes recalled a big senior picnic at a local park occurring during the week. In 1975, Grad Night was held at a local bowling alley.

When Great America opened in the mid-1970s, LGHS began celebrating Grad Night there with an all-night party in the theme park. Some students ended the night in the

park's temporary jail when their festivities got too rowdy. By the early 1980s, the Great America location was phased out.

While it's unclear if there was a hiatus following the Great America years, we do know that Grad Night returned to campus with renewed energy in 1986. That year, as current LGHS Assistant Principal Kristi Grasty (Class of ’86) shared with The Outlook, the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) and parent community rallied to bring the tradition back in full force.

What began as a safer

alternative to unsupervised parties has grown into a beloved rite of passage. Over the years, Grad Night has featured everything from casino games and beach volleyball (complete with trucked-in sand) to a teacher rock band and walls lined with heartfelt parent- written student biographies. And food, lots of food.

We’re grateful to our readers and former faculty for helping us correct the record and celebrate the rich history of this cherished Los Gatos tradition.

Proposed Los Gatos community center aims to serve all ages

CONTINUED FROM Page 1

spearheading the campaign. The assessment, which included an inventory of existing spaces, community surveys, workshops, and a review of neighboring community centers, resulted in a priority list of rooms and spaces including a large community room and presentation space, outdoor seating and meeting space, and a full-service kitchen, plus dedicated space for seniors and other groups. With all of the desired rooms and spaces, the building is projected to occupy approximately 29,000 square feet, plus 25,000 square feet of outdoor space.

Based on this community wish list, the foundation commissioned Noll and Tam, architects of the Los Gatos Library, to create two conceptual designs. These designs were then used to create floor plans and renderings for both a onestory and a two-story building, depending on the location, which is yet to be determined. Using the conceptual designs, local architectural illustrator Barney Davidge created the renderings.

The publication of the renderings and floor plans marks a significant milestone in the campaign, enabling the public to visualize the new building.

“While these renderings

gathering as a top senior need. As they explored ideas, it quickly became evident that seniors weren’t the only ones clamoring for more space, and the idea of a multigenerational community center began to take hold.

“A community center would allow us to attract regional events that we don’t have space to host today, including a job fair,” said Jennifer Lin, CEO of the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce.

Catherine Somers, owner of Centerpiece, says her clients feel the lack of large gathering spaces in town.

This is about space but it's also about place. The community center will be a point of pride for the town, like the high school, the plaza, and the library.

- Tom Picraux

and floor plans are only conceptual, they are invaluable as our campaign moves into the awareness stage, helping people imagine what a new community center can look like, and to get excited about what it will mean for our town,” said campaign chairman Ryan Rosenberg.

“This is about space but it’s also about place,” said Tom Picraux, president of Los Gatos Thrives. “The community center will be a point of pride for the town, like the high school, the plaza and the library.”

The seed of the campaign was planted in 2022. Demand for senior services surged more than fourfold after the pandemic, leading the Town of Los Gatos Senior Services Committee to declare more space for programming and

“There’s limited space for weddings and other large celebrations,” she said. “A new community center would greatly expand the number of events held here.”

Teens are especially excited about the prospect, so much so that a group of Los Gatos High students have already formed a “Community Center Club” to start educating their peers and advocating for the new center.

“There’s a lack of affordable places to hang out after school,” said club leader Tanner Goulden. “We have study spaces like the library, but what we need are social spaces.”

The last time Los Gatos had a community center appears to have been in the mid- 1960s. It was a time of tremendous population growth. The town began the decade with just over

9,000 residents and ended it with over 23,000. Investment in the community center never caught up.

That 1960’s community center became the Youth Recreation Center at 123 Main Street. Built in 1949, this 7,000 square foot building contains three medium-sized classrooms.

Over time, adult recreation programs became scattered at 19 different locations; many were eventually consolidated into the current Adult Rec Center, a 12,000 square foot town-owned building at 208 Main street constructed in the late 1970s. A 2007 effort to construct a new, all-ages community center never came to fruition.

That’s the state of affairs today—programming for separate populations housed in cramped, outdated facilities.

“Our recreation classes, indoor sports and enrichment activities are popular among all groups and we would love to offer more, but are limited by available space,” said Nancy Rollet, Executive Director of Los Gatos-Saratoga Recreation. “A new community center will allow us to increase enrollment in current offerings plus add creative new programs.”

The largest room available holds only 100 people, and neither building has space for the public to walk in, relax, socialize, or hold meetings.

Meanwhile, neighboring communities such as Los Altos, Burlingame, Mountain View and Palo Alto have replaced mid-20th century centers with new facilities that have advanced technology and digital amenities, configurable multi-purpose rooms, fitness and arts facilities, and inviting common areas. All were multiyear, even multi-decade efforts.

“Big, long-term civic projects are a challenge, and there is never a perfect time,”

Rosenberg said. “You need the right financial, political and social conditions. You need a partnership with the town. But at the core, you need a motivated, dedicated group of citizens who will work for it and advocate for it.”

“But the payoff is huge, and lasts for generations,” Rosenberg continued. “We get a building that will become a beloved part of our town, just like our central plaza or our library. And, as we’ve seen in other towns, once people have a modern community center, they can’t imagine their town without it.”

The social conditions for a new community center certainly seem right. About a year ago, then U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy declared a national loneliness and isolation epidemic, citing a variety of negative mental and physical health impacts. A multi-generational community center would be one tailormade remedy.

access to emotional support, as well as information and resources not available to them in other domains of their life,” the authors wrote.

And, in a time of division, investing in a community center could be one thing almost everyone can agree on. According to the National Recreation and Parks Association, 91% of Americans believe their community is enhanced by having easy access to their local recreation or community centers.

That lines up with findings of a survey of 600+ Los Gatos households that the campaign conducted last year.

“People really like this idea,” Rosenberg said. “And the more they hear about it the more they like it. But we still have 30,000 more Los Gatans to reach.”

With the renderings in hand, the campaign now turns its attention to doing just that.

Learn more at lgcommunitycenter.org.

Big, long-term civic projects are a challenge, and there is never a perfect time. You need the right financial, political, and social conditions. You need a partnership with the town. But at the core, you need a motivated, dedicated group of citizens who will work for it and advocate for it.

- Ryan Rosenberg

A 2017 report in the Journal of Park and Recreation Administration found that community centers provided much more than opportunities for physical activity.

“Through opportunities for bonding, bridging and linking social capital … users had

Lynn Bruno has written for over 100 national, local and trade publications including The Wall Street Journal., MSNBC.com, TodayShow.com. She currently volunteers on the communications committee for the community center campaign.

Ryan Rosenberg and Tom Picraux unveil the conceptual renderings of the proposed Los Gatos Community Center PHOTO BY MARY ELLEN KASCHUB

Shared passion for writing inspires new partnership in Saratoga

BY UNA DALY, SOUTH BAY WRITERS PRESIDENT

Writers of all ages and experience levels are welcome to join South Bay Writers (SBW), a branch of the historic California Writers Club (CWC). Now meeting monthly at the Saratoga Senior Center through a new partnership with Successful Aging Solutions & Community Consulting (SASCC), the group is expanding its reach and creating more opportunities for local writers to connect, learn, and publish. As part of the collaboration, SBW members can contribute to SASCC’s community newspaper, The Outlook, while SASCC members gain access to expertled workshops, open mics, critique groups, and more.

CWC was founded in 1909 by literary luminaries of the day including Jack London, Ina Coolbrith, and others. The initial meeting place was in Oakland, and there are now twenty-one branches of the statewide club. SBW is one of seven branches in the San

with various events including writing contests and special literary festivities.

“This year, our club has more than 115 members,” said Shari Clare, who has been membership chair and now serves as vice-president. “Most of us live in Santa Clara County, from Palo Alto to Gilroy. We write in a variety of genres, such as thrillers, science

Regardless of experience or genre, each of us has found a welcoming community where we can enjoy each other’s company while improving our skills.”

Beginning in August, SBW will hold its monthly meetings at the Saratoga Senior Center at 19655 Allendale Ave, across from the post office. These meetings, which are held on

on the craft of writing. Past speakers include best-selling author Robin Sloan, literary agent Elizabeth Kracht, and archeologist and author Patrick Hunt. Light snacks and coffee are also provided.

SBW shares many members in common with the National League of Pen Women (NLAPW), Santa Clara Valley, who also meet at the Saratoga

fiction, children’s literature,

the second Saturday of most months, run from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.. In the months of July and December, offsite social events replace the monthly meetings. Each meeting features an expert speaker or panel of speakers

Senior Center to foster memoir writing among community members. NLAPW’s focus on encouraging the production of creative works through outreach activities and professional support aligns with CWC’s mission.

“Whether you’re composing music, writing a novel, or painting a masterpiece, the creative process is generally a solitary venture, so gathering with other creative people is inspiring and fills that social void. Pen Women and the South Bay Branch of California Writers Club provide that opportunity,” said Edie Matthews, past president of SBW, and NLAPW member

In addition to our monthly meetings, SBW sponsors both online and in-person open mic events, as well as critique groups.

"All are welcome at our open mics, and they are free,” said Bill Baldwin, SBW’s open mic host and board member. Time permitting, anyone may read up to ten minutes of a favorite piece—their own or someone they admire. It's a great way to promote your writing, get feedback, and meet other writers."

SBW welcomes all members of the community to attend and support its educational mission.

South Bay Writers held its inaugural event at the Saratoga Senior Center on Saturday, August 9. Attendees enjoyed a writing exercise led by Nils Michals, a published poet and professor of English at West Valley College.

For more information and to learn how to join South Bay Writers, visit southbaywriters.com

South Bay Writers Summer Barbecue, July 2025. COURTESY PHOTO.

BY MENDY MAO

NUMU WOMEN IN LOS GATOS HISTORY TOUR

New Museum Los Gatos (NUMU) hosts a Women in Los Gatos history tour on Friday, August 15 from 11-11:45 a.m.

The tour highlights prominent Los Gatan women from the town’s history, such as Amelia Earhart’s flight instructor and local suffragettes. Alan Feinberg, “The Los Gatos Historian,” will be joining the tour.

The event is free with registration. Register at numulosgatos.org/events/ women-tour.

COLBY POLLARD AT THE COFFEEHOUSE

Local musician Colby Pollard will perform live at Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company on Friday, August 22 from 7-9 p.m. Pollard, a singer, songwriter and guitarist, specializes in acoustic music and was a part of the Bay Area show band, the

HAKONE GARDENS HOSTS LANTERN FLOATING CEREMONY

Saratoga’s Hakone Estate and Gardens will host its annual Toro Nagashi (Lantern Floating) Ceremony on two evenings, Aug. 14 and 15, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Guests will receive a lantern to decorate and float on the pond in remembrance of loved ones. The evening will begin with traditional Obon Odori dances coordinated by Reiko Iwanaga and Reimichi Hanayagi, followed by a remembrance led by Kaz Kihara and a koto performance by the Kaze Ensemble. Tickets are available at hakone.com

PIERCE ROAD STABILIZATION

Construction on Pierce Road is scheduled to start August 10 and will lead to 24-hour detours on a portion of the road west of Chalet Clotilde Drive from August 10-19. The stabilization initiative plans to construct another 40-footlong wall in front of the current

NEWS BRIEFS Los Gatos

Heartbeats. Register for seats by calling 408-354-3263 or visiting the company in person. Seats are $15 each, but there will likely be standing room in the coffeehouse. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Learn more at tinyurl.com/2ywzjc9m

WALK FOR WISHES

Make-A-Wish foundation hosts their annual Walk for Wishes, fundraising for children with critical illnesses, on Saturday, August 23. Participants will walk 1.3 miles in Vasona Lake County Park. After the walk, food trucks and family-friendly activities will be provided during the post-walk celebration. The schedule is as follows:

• 8:30-9:45 a.m.: Check-in opens, with breakfast and activities available.

• 9:45-10 a.m.: Welcome program.

• 10-11 a.m.: Walk around Vasona Park (approximately 1.3 miles).

• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Post-walk celebration.

Attendees must register beforehand at tinyurl.com/ razxzrvj to participate. They can also create a team, fundraise or register to walk in their own neighborhood and show support. You can sign up for the post-walk celebration or donate to Make-A-Wish at sfwish.ejoinme.org/ walkcelebration.

GREAT RACE RETURNS FOR 47TH YEAR IN LOS GATOS

The Rotary Club of Los Gatos invites community members to “get their happy pace on” at the 47th Annual Great Race on Saturday, Aug. 30. The popular 4-mile run/walk winds through scenic Vasona and Oak Meadow parks, offering a fast, certified course suitable for both seasoned runners and casual walkers.

The family-friendly event kicks off with a 1-mile Kids Fun Run at 8 a.m., followed by the main race at 8:30 a.m. All proceeds support the Rotary’s local and international service projects, including youth programs and humanitarian initiatives.

“This race has been a cornerstone of our community for nearly half a century,” said Paul Johnson, president of the Rotary Club of Los Gatos and superintendent of the Los Gatos Union School District. “This year we are focusing on bringing in more families to run.”

Registration and more details are available at LGGreatRace.com

LOS GATOS CREEK TRAIL CLEANUP

The Los Gatos Kiwani Club and the Los Gatos High School Key Club will be meeting for their monthly Los Gatos Creek Trail Cleanup on Saturday, Sept. 13

from 10-11:30 a.m. They will provide cleanup materials, including gloves and garbage bags, for volunteers. Wear comfortable clothes for the cleanup. Snacks and coffee will also be provided. Improve local trails while meeting new people!

Volunteers meet at the Old Forbes Mill Parking Lot behind 55 Church Street. Registration is not needed. Learn more at tinyurl.com/2mt7r6p7

BAN ON GAS-POWERED LEAF BLOWERS

The Town of Los Gatos reminds residents not to use gaspowered leaf blowers, which have been outlawed. These blowers pollute the air and generate unnecessary noise. Alternatives include rakes, brooms and blowers running on electricity or batteries. Leaf blowers may only be used from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays. Use of leaf blowers is prohibited on Sundays and holidays. You can be issued a citation for violation of these laws. To report use of gas-powered leaf blowers, enter the address, date and time of violation at codecomplianceslosgatosca.org or call 408-399-5720.

LOS GATOS URGES RESIDENTS TO PREPARE FOR WILDFIRES

As wildfire season begins this summer, hot and dry

NEWS BRIEFS Saratoga

retaining wall to protect exposed pier columns. Drivers will be rerouted to Surrey Lane, Saraview Drive and Sarahills Drive. The project should be completed by mid-October. Learn more at tinyurl.com/25pp5b7a

BOARD GAME NIGHT FOR ADULTS

Saratoga Library hosts a Board Game Night for Adults Monday, August 18 from 6-8 p.m. Board games will be provided and no registration is needed. Drop into the Maple Room anytime during the event to play. Learn more at tinyurl.com/56wka8rv

DROP-IN TECH HELP

The Saratoga Library offers one-on-one tech help every Thursday from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Help is first-come, first-serve in the Oak Room. Volunteers will help with technology use and questions. On the last Thursday of the month, August 28, they will also host a Digital Literacy class from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Learn more at tinyurl.com/2mcjvjay

conditions increase the risk of wildfires in Los Gatos. The town encourages everyone to avoid using yard equipment like mowers, weed trimmers and chainsaws, which can spark fires. For safer use of these tools, work early in the morning and have fire extinguishers or water on hand.

For those with homes in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), your home is at higher risk from fast-moving fires due to its proximity with flammable brush and vegetation. You can take precautionary safety measures, such as:

• Maintain 100 feet of defensible space by following Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) guidelines for clearing vegetation and reducing wildfire risks.

• Remove debris from roofs and gutters.

• Trim tree limbs at least 10 feet away from structures and other trees.

• Store firewood and combustibles at least 30 feet from your home.

For a free HIZ evaluation, visit defensiblespacereport. org/santa_clara/address/ requestCode and visit losgatosca.gov/3015/WildfirePreparedness to learn more about wildfire preparedness.

PHOTO FROM HAKONE.COM

NEWS BRIEFS Santa Clara County

FREE CONCERT IN THE PARK

Local Bay Area band “The Hitmen” will be performing a free live concert in Oak Park on Friday, August 15 from 6:30 - 8 p.m. The band specializes in funk, soul, disco and Latin styles. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy the energetic dance music. Food trucks will offer treats for purchase, but no alcohol is permitted. Learn more at tinyurl.com/2t6kjnhe

COMPOST GIVEAWAY

The city of Santa Clara is giving out compost at the Department of Public Works Corporation Yard on Saturday, August 16 from 8-11 a.m. Organic material placed out by residents for collection has been processed into the compost that the city is giving away. It's free and no registration is required.

Participants will receive compost on a first-come, firstserve basis, with a maximum of 40 gallons per household. You must provide proof of residency with an ID or utility bill and bring your own containers for the compost. Learn more at tinyurl.com/5f6vp2m9

WOMEN'S EQUALITY DAY

Celebrate Women's Equality Day on Friday, August 22 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. in the San Jose Mexican Heritage Plaza. The day marks the adoption of the Nineteenth Amendment in 1920, which allowed women to vote. The Santa Clara Commission on the Status of Women will host the event, featuring speakers and cultural performances. This year, the theme will be “Rooted in Community, We Rise Together.” The event is free and available to all ages. Register at tinyurl.com/faj6tap2

CHRONIC PAIN MANAGEMENT TALK

Kaiser Permanente clinical experts will hold an online discussion on chronic pain management on Thursday, August 28 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. The agenda for the webinar is as follows:

• The neuroscience of pain.

• Chronic Pain—

The Overprotective Alarm.

• Healing through a mind-body approach.

Learn more and register for the meeting at tinyurl.com/2f2fevxa to receive the Microsoft Teams meeting link. Email librarians@santaclaraca.gov with questions.

COUNTY AWARDED

$25.7 MILLION

FUNDING FOR EMERGENCY HOUSING

Santa Clara County was awarded a $25.7 million grant from the state for 30 temporary

housing units to accommodate up to 120 homeless people. They will collaborate with nonprofit LifeMoves for the project, dubbed Santa Clara Family Community. California’s Homekey program gave the grant to the county as part of the state’s larger initiative to develop housing for those currently unhoused.

The building will provide transitional housing with up to 90 rooms and will prioritize homeless families in the city. It will be constructed at the corner of Benton Street and Lawrence Expressway. Learn more at tinyurl.com/n4bjfx2k

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS HOSTS SEMINAR ON EXECUTIVE POWER

The League of Women Voters of Southwest Santa Clara Valley invites the public to a nonpartisan seminar exploring the role of executive power in the U.S. government. The event

will examine how presidential authority has evolved over time, the checks and balances in place, and how these dynamics can influence policy and public life.

Designed to provide historical context and civic insight, the seminar aims to help attendees better understand how executive power functions within a constitutional framework. The seminar will take place at the Quinlan Center in Cupertino on Tuesday, September 9, from 7–9 p.m. Seating is limited. Register at tinyurl.com/337rj292. For more information, contact info@lwvswscv.org

We are not only a small town, but a town that loves its Porsches.

-

Los Gatos Mayor Matt Hudes

Hudes, a Porsche owner himself, joined more than 1,400 attendees for Los Gatos' new Porsche Service Center grand opening on June 22. The ribbon-cutting event celebrated both Porsche Heritage Day and the arrival of over 50 new jobs in town.

Attendees enjoyed rows of classic and modern Porsches, a tour of the state-of-the-art facility, and refreshments from Juice Co. LG and The Tasting House.

PHOTO BY ARNOLD BREIT

Remembering Ed Stahl: A life of travel, connection and community

BY MENDY MAO

Ed Stahl, beloved Los Gatos travel agent and lifelong adventurer, died recently at the age of 94, not long after winding down operations at his 64-year-old business, Los Gatos Travel Advisors.

From orchestrating sister city diplomacy in Mexico to setting a Guinness World Record by visiting the North Pole at age 90, Stahl’s life has been anything but ordinary.

Interviews for this story were conducted prior to Stahl’s passing.

Longtime colleague and fellow traveler, Linda

Margolin-Lesser, worked with Stahl for 15 years and joined him on a trip to the Mediterranean. She described him as a man with “Peter Pan syndrome” who never let age stop him from doing what he loved.

“His eyes always sparkled,” Margolin-Lesser said. “He was passionate

about everything. Passionate about travel, passionate about people. With his positivity, his zest for life, each day was an exciting new day.”

Stahl facilitated Los Gatos’ sister city relationship with Zihuatanejo, Mexico back in 1972—a venture that turned into one of his most memorable travel stories.

In a 2023 Outlook essay, he recounted how, just before his departure, then-Mayor of Los Gatos Ruth Cannon asked him to ensure a mayor would be there to greet the delegation.

At the time, communication with Zihuatanejo was nearly impossible—no one had responded to letters, and there was only one phone line into town. So, Stahl improvised.

“I arrived in Mexico City and soon found the ‘perfect’ mayor!” he wrote in the essay.

“A handsome, eloquent, polished actor who would play the role magnificently!”

Stahl flew into Zihuatanejo with his stand-in mayor, only to be met by the town’s real mayor—“a short, overweight, sweaty man” who greeted them with, “Yes! We are expecting you!” As it turned out, the real mayor had received their letters all along, but never responded. Stahl’s hired actor pivoted to serving as interpreter.

In his accounts of his travels, Stahl’s enthusiasm became apparent as he recalled the details. Despite the diplomatic drama in Zihuatanejo, he still took in the setting around him.

“Let me say, when you’re sitting at water level and look up the side, those ships seem

huge!” Stahl wrote. “After breakfast, we all headed to the Las Gatas beach where the locals had prepared a wonderful feast of raw and barbecued butterflied fish and seafood.”

In addition to the sister cities initiative, Stahl supported many community service projects as an active Rotary Club member since 1966. Marlon Smith, friend and fellow Rotary Club member, saw firsthand Stahl’s effect on the Los Gatos community. Smith also went to Stahl’s travel agency for assistance whenever he ventured.

“He's always so happy and uplifting,” Smith said. “He's very generous, always giving to the town and the Rotary Club, and helping people with travel trouble. He wants to do good for the community.”

“Kind, kind, kind,” Margolin-Lesser said, referencing his constant support of her both as a boss and as a friend. “His heart is bigger than all of him. He always had a helping hand and was just being involved with everything.”

“I keep trying to be like him,” Smith said. “He just keeps going, no matter how old he gets. He's quite an inspiration: always does all the things he likes to do, especially traveling. He's a good example of how men ought to be, especially when they get older.”

Stahl’s legacy will continue through every itinerary he helped craft, every community connection he helped build, and every traveler he inspired to see the world with wonder.

‘America the Beautiful’ decorations fostered patriotic unity in July

BY NIMAI KUMAR

Saratoga’s 15th annual “America the Beautiful” display showcased patriotic décor and community spirit.

In its 15th year, Saratoga’s annual “America the Beautiful” display once again brought a wave of patriotic charm to the Village throughout July. Laurel Perusa and Patricia Himel launched the tradition in 2011, inviting local businesses and residents to decorate their windows, fences, and trees in red, white, and blue.

A highlight of this

year’s decorations was a handcrafted American flag made from macramé, on display at Susan Stark Real Estate Services. Created by Kantha Narasimhan, mother of Saratoga resident and active community volunteer Ramya Vasu, the piece featured intricate knotwork and decades of textile artistry.

“When [my mother] visited me [from India] a few years ago, she saw my kids and I helping Mrs. Perusa decorate the town for Fourth of July and we wanted something large and different for one of the large windows,” said Vasu. “She immediately asked for some cotton macrame threads and made this beautiful

flag that fit the window and enhanced the beauty of the town!”

The decorations, which spanned storefronts and residences alike, served not only as festive flair but as a reminder of shared values and unity.

“In Saratoga, 'America the Beautiful' is more than a patriotic display—it’s a joyful tribute to the natural beauty, rich history, and cherished values that define our community,” said Saratoga Mayor Belal Aftab.

Though the decorations have since come down, the tradition continues to serve as a symbol of civic pride and togetherness.

Ed Stahl and Linda Margolin-Lesser pose together at her wedding. PHOTO COURTESY OF LINDA MARGOLIN-LESSER

Sriya and Vidya hold up the macrame American flag their grandmother, Kantha Narasimhan created for America the Beautiful. PHOTO BY NIMAI KUMAR.

Don’t ditch it, fix it! Repair Café heads to Los Gatos Library Aug. 16

BY BRANDY MADDOX

Have broken household items in need of repair? Bring them to the Los Gatos Library on August 16 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for a free Repair Café event, part of a growing movement to fix rather than toss.

For over a decade, volunteer tinkerers have been gathering across the South Bay to breathe new life into everything from lamps and toasters to jeans and jewelry, free of charge. Repair Café Silicon Valley organizes these pop-up events, pairing skilled volunteers with community members who hope to salvage their beloved or useful items.

“Repairing is a lost art; our society has become so disposable,” said Maia

Coladonato, who co-founded the Mountain View Repair Café in 2013 with her husband, Greg.

“We’re not just repairing items, we’re also teaching repair skills and encouraging people to think differently about what’s broken.”

Repair Café is part of a global movement that began in Amsterdam in 2009. Its mission: reduce waste, conserve resources, and preserve repair knowledge in a throwaway culture.

“If you can carry it in, we’ll try to fix it,” said Jon Freilich, board member of Repair Café Silicon Valley.

Volunteers include hobbyists, engineers, retired professionals, students, and craftspeople who handle common fixes like small appliances, electronics, bikes,

clothing, and jewelry.

On a recent Saturday at the Santa Clara City Library, more than 50 people lined up before the doors even opened. Inside, two dozen volunteer fixers worked their way through everything from vacuums to blue jeans. Over 160 items were evaluated, and nearly 60% were successfully repaired.

“That’s a lot of waste diverted from the landfill and many happy people,” Freilich said.

Coladonato said the first U.S. Repair Café events began in Palo Alto in 2012, followed by Mountain View in 2013. In 2023, the groups merged under the name Repair Café Silicon Valley to reflect their expanded regional presence, from Palo Alto to San Jose.

Why call it a café?

According to Freilich, the original organizers saw it as “an opportunity to bring the community together, share knowledge, and help the environment.” Many events offer coffee, tea, and even homemade cakes to create a welcoming, social atmosphere.

Beyond the repairs, there’s an educational mission too. Visitors are invited to watch the fixers at work, ask questions, and even sign up for an apprentice program.

“Many people are surprised to learn how often something simple can bring a broken item back to life: fixing a loose wire, replacing a worn switch, sewing on a missing button, or even just a good cleaning will do it,” Freilich said.

“Volunteering has demystified how many things

work,” said Wubing Ye, a fixer who tackles everything from bikes to vacuums. “If you take your time to properly examine an item, then often you can figure out how it works and come up with a solution.”

The group welcomes new volunteers with all kinds of skills, from sewing to soldering and everything in between.

“Anyone can get involved,” Freilich said. “Even if you don’t think of yourself as a fixer, you can help with logistics or event promotion.”

In addition to the Aug. 16 event at Los Gatos Library, a Repair Café is also scheduled for Aug. 24 in partnership with the Willow Glen Neighborhood Association. More dates are planned throughout the year. To volunteer, attend, or learn more, visit repaircafesv.org

New clothes, full hearts: WVCS helps 250 students shine this school year

BY AKRITI SHRIVASTAVA

Nearly 250 children are heading into the school year with new backpacks, fresh clothes, school supplies, and heads held high thanks to West Valley Community Services’ Back to School with Dignity Program.

Each summer, WVCS partners with local retailers to host a special shopping event where children are paired with volunteer chaperones to pick out clothes, enjoy a cozy breakfast, and choose free books from a book nook.

This year’s event took place at Old Navy in Westgate Center and was a meaningful day for families and volunteers alike.

The impact is personal for parents like Tiyonna, whose daughter with special needs had a joyful and accommodating experience, or Carolina, who was moved to tears knowing her son had everything he needed. The Back to School with Dignity Program shows that with compassion, commitment, and a little back-to-school magic, every child can feel valued and ready to learn.

For many families, the

season brings stress rather than excitement. Quynh, a single mother with no income, felt overwhelmed by the cost of supplies. Sarah, working part-time and stretching every dollar, couldn’t afford new school clothes. Rina, living in her car with three children, saw even the basics as luxuries. Like all parents, they simply wanted their children to begin the year with pride and confidence. WVCS helps make that possible.

The program has supported students from transitional kindergarten through 12th grade for over 20

years, ensuring those facing financial hardship can start the year with dignity and the tools to thrive. Funded by generous donors and sponsors, it offers families not only material goods, but a renewed sense of hope and belonging.

About West Valley Community Services

West Valley Community Services is a nonprofit dedicated to fighting hunger and homelessness in the West Valley. Founded in the 1970s by public health nurses in Cupertino, WVCS now serves communities across Cupertino, West San Jose,

Saratoga, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, and nearby mountain regions.

The organization offers no-cost food through an on-site market and mobile pantry, emergency financial and housing assistance, case management, and transportation support for seniors. Seasonal programs, including Thanksgiving baskets, Cake4Kids, Gift of Hope, and Back to School with Dignity, bring added support when families need it most. For more information or to donate to WVCS, visit wvcommunityservices.org

Juli Arnold, left, watches as volunteers Wubing Ye, center, and Tisha Liem, right, work to repair her vacuum cleaner at a Repair Café event in San Jose. COURTESY PHOTO.

Volunteers Pascal Bruyere, left, and Stefano Alletto, right, work to repair a toy car at a Repair Café event in Palo Alto. COURTESY PHOTO.

Twenty-seven years of Shakespeare in the Saratoga foothills

CONTINUED FROM Page 1

for the human connection.

“It's great to experience something out in the open air with everybody,” McGillivray said. “We all laugh, and we have a good time together. You can look around and see everybody enjoying the same thing you're enjoying, and that's a really cool human experience. It’s just magical everytime.”

Drew Jones, SVS production manager and executive admin directed Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” this year. He cited the troupe’s accessibility to everyone in the community as one of their main goals.

“We try to make it accessible both financially as well as contextually, so we spend a lot of our rehearsal time breaking down the words of Shakespeare,” Jones said. “Our goal is that you understand what we're saying even though it sounds like we're talking in a different language.

A lot of it is just kind of saying Shakespearean words with modern ideas, modern feelings.”

Indeed, Silicon Valley Shakespeare makes their performances easily accessible to local community members: shows in Willow Glen are completely free, and the ticketed shows at Sanborn are affordable, with tiered pricing and discount opportunities for seniors, military personnel, and

students, plus free admission for children.

That commitment to accessibility was on display during a recent performance of “The Tempest,” where audience members could glance toward the sidelines, where three American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters enthusiastically translated for

less than 16% of all characters in Shakespeare plays are women—a fact that motivated Higgins to implement an annual show with a full female and nonbinary cast. She emphasizes the importance of accessibility and inclusion to reach everyone in the community.

“We want to make sure that art is for everyone,” Higgins

Shakespeare’s plays help audiences connect with characters across time. As a middle school teacher, she emphasized the importance of accessible arts and theater in the community.

“As old and ‘old fashioned’ as Shakespeare can be, there is so much truth that is just part of what it means to be human,”

the speakers onstage—it was one of the company’s scheduled accessibility nights.

SVS artistic director Angie Higgins, who will play “Richard” in this summer’s Sanborn Park show, “Richard III,” helped push for the organization’s discounted prices and routine ASL interpreted nights. According to the International Journal of Advanced Academic Studies,

said. “Theater should not be for the elite. Theater is about the human condition and coming together as a community. It can be an escape, but it can also be a platform for voices to speak out, to connect, and that is for everyone.”

Two-time cast member Mary Melnick, who played Prospero in “The Tempest,” said she believes the creativity and enduring humanity in

Melnick said. “Once we can give people an opportunity to try it out—the arts really feed our minds, feed our creativity, feed our souls, keep us connected to humanity.”

In that spirit of inclusion, SVS aims to unite a theater community and benefit the community at large. It partners with local nonprofits for charity events, and is currently working with Family Giving Tree to

provide local students with school supplies.

“We try to give back as much as we can,” Jones said. “We're trying to build a community as well as invigorate and inspire the arts. We're trying to spread awareness and togetherness. We're trying to represent our community and bring our community together so that they can talk to each other and see themselves on stage as well.”

Audience member James Kleinrath has watched 15 years of Sanborn shows and donates to the company annually. He appreciates their focus on community connection.

“It's a communal event and that's a very important thing,” Kleinrath said. “It makes a big difference between seeing a movie on TV and seeing a live performance, and there’s so many different interpretations. Each one is different.”

Running until August 29 at Sanborn County Park, SVS brings a fresh take to “Richard III,” staging the classic tale of ambition and betrayal with an all-female and non-binary cast. Now through August 31, SVS presents a bold, feminist take on “Emma,” turning Jane Austen’s classic into a lively screwball comedy that breaks convention—and the fourth wall.

Shows run select Thursdays through Sundays. Tickets are $28-$58.

Visit svshakespeare.org for the schedule and tickets. Sanborn is located at 16055 Sanborn Rd.

‘Endless Summer’ fundraiser returns to support youth mental health

BY BRANDY MADDOX

music, local food and

message: young people need more mental health support.

On Friday, Aug. 22, the Los Gatos Morning Rotary is hosting its third-annual Endless Summer benefit at the Los Gatos Town Plaza from 5-8:30 p.m. This free event will raise funds for Counseling and Support Services for Youth (CASSY), which provides oncampus mental health services to students and families at no cost.

“Although the pandemic is over and kids are back in school, experts agree the kids are not alright,” organizers said in a statement. “Mental

health issues are now the primary reason children and teens are hospitalized in Santa Clara County.”

Live music, dancing, food from local restaurants, fine wine, and craft beer will anchor the evening, along with family-friendly activities and a raffle. The Summit Sisters, an all-female folk-rock band, will open the show with a set of ‘60s and ‘70s throwbacks, followed by The HitMen’s high-energy mix of funk, soul, Latin, and disco.

Los Gatos Morning Rotary members aim to “empower youth through leadership development and expanded access to arts, music, and STEM education,” said Endless Summer Chair Lisa Sieber.

“With the growing youth mental health crisis, the need to build awareness and support is vital,” Sieber said. “Creating

a meaningful—yet uplifting— community fund-friend-raiser felt not only appropriate, but essential.”

Sieber brings personal experience to the cause, having worked with at-risk students in the Compass Program at Menlo-Atherton High School. There, she helped teens build confidence, emotional regulation and coping skills.

“This experience deepened my commitment to youth mental health and the importance of early intervention during these pivotal developmental stages,” she said. “In our society there needs to be greater attention to fostering resilience and creating a safe space where teens are felt, seen, heard and empowered to face the challenges of junior high and high school.”

CASSY Interim Executive Director Mary Cheryl B.

Gloner said the need has never been greater.

“For three years running, anxiety has been the number one issue students are experiencing, dwarfing all other mental health concerns,” Gloner said.

She added that addressing the problem requires broad community support.

“As Surgeon General Vivek Murthy noted, it will take a ‘whole-of-society effort’ to support the mental well-being of our youth,” Gloner said.

“We’re so grateful for the way Los Gatos Morning Rotary has embraced that charge, in this beautiful, community-wide show of support for young people in our local schools.”

Also known for hosting Claws for a Cause to benefit Los Gatos Music Boosters, Los Gatos Morning Rotary has decades of experience producing community events.

Last year’s Endless Summer drew everyone from families with young children to seniors and students.

“Endless Summer was a blast, bringing so many people together,” said Kathy Granger, CASSY director of finance and operations. “Los Gatos Morning Rotary certainly knows how to throw a celebration, creating the kind of community we all want to live in—while helping create a sense of community on our school campuses.”

Sieber said the spirit of the event is simple but powerful: “Kids need to know they’re not alone. We’re doing our part to make sure.”

Admission is free, and the event is made possible by sponsors, local businesses, and community donations. For more information, contact Sieber at sieber123@aol.com

A Los Gatos fundraiser is back this August, bringing live

a strong

Actor Richard Robert Bunker, performing as Caliban, monologues about his reasons for turning evil.

PHOTO BY MENDY MAO.

West Valley College Jazz Combo opens for legends at Mountain Winery

BY MONIQUE BEELER

When the Mountain Winery invited West Valley College’s student-led Jazz Combo to play ahead of a summer concert, the group eagerly said yes.

“It was unreal,” said saxophonist Emmanuel “Manny” Fatoye. “Wait, we’re actually going to play at Mountain Winery? It’s a dream venue.”

Fatoye, who keeps a list of dream stages on his phone, has long had the Mountain Winery on it.

The WVC Jazz Combo performed at Adele’s Garden ahead of the “Happy Together Tour” on July 10, opening for 1960s and ’70s acts like The Turtles, Little Anthony, and The Cowsills.

Performing at a highprofile venue like Mountain Winery, said Troy Davis, director of WVC Instrumental Music and Jazz Studies, gives students real-world experience while showcasing the

exceptional talent cultivated at West Valley.

The rotating group of four to six student musicians on drums, bass, piano, saxophone, and trumpet, delivered a dynamic set inspired by the venue’s atmosphere. Many, Davis noted, go on to pursue degrees and careers in music.

One special moment came when professional trumpeter Johnny Britt, touring with Little Anthony, jumped in to play with the students.

“I saw these young cats playing, and I had to join,” said Britt, a featured soloist in La La Land and former musical director for The Temptations. He also stayed to mentor the students. “Someone mentored me. It’s my job to pass it along.”

High schooler Jackson Takizawa, part of West Valley’s dual enrollment program, said playing with Britt was unforgettable. “He’s so good. It was amazing to play and talk with him.”

Fatoye added, “I’m in love with this place. I can’t wait to come back and play the main stage.”

Aegis Gallery and Muindi Foundation are sparking a love of art in kids

BY DESIREE AQUINO

Two local organizations come together to awaken possibility through creativity.

Remember as a kid getting lost sketching your favorite animal, or crayoning in coloring books, or smearing vibrant finger paints across paper? Art provides a vital pathway toward creativity, self expression, and possibility in kids, but it does so much more. According to research, art boosts brain development, improves academic performance, and enhances focus and memory in kids.

Two local organizations are working together to enable children to reap those benefits through an innovative partnership focused on art and art-making.

Aegis Gallery of Fine Arts partnered with a San Jose-

by 11 Bay Area professional artists at “A Day at the Beach— Art for All Ages,” an art exhibit that ran through July at Aegis Gallery of Fine Art on Big Basin Way.

The show highlighted work created during a free workshop, Kids Free Art Day—a product of the AegisMuindi partnership. In April, local children were invited to come to Muindi Foundation to be led in a day-long workshop by Christine Oliver, Aegis Gallery of Fine Arts president. Oliver guided the kids through art techniques and helped them with tips and observations as they created their artwork.

“Art is transformative,” Oliver said. “And for kids, research shows it can open a portal to their creativity, self confidence and mental wellbeing.”

The collaboration began when Muindi Foundation’s Co-Founder and Executive Director Serena Muindi visited Aegis Gallery.

Art is transformative, and for kids, research shows it can open a portal to their creativity, self confidence, and mental wellbeing.

based nonprofit organization that supports underserved children, Muindi Foundation, to bring the magic of art to the youngest members of the community.

The children’s artwork was displayed alongside pieces

- Christine Oliver

“We were looking for local artists to donate their artwork to our annual Community Art Auction fundraiser,” Muindi said. “We met Christine and Norma, a gallery artist, and as we started chatting, we talked about other opportunities

where we could work together that made sense for both of our organizations.”

Kids Free Art Day was born from that conversation. “It was an exciting day, not just for the children creating their artwork, but for their parents, too!” Oliver said.

“Yes, the parents seemed just as thrilled as the kids,” Muindi added. “Some even told us later how the kids continued painting when they got home.”

Aegis Gallery and Muindi Foundation then created a first-of-its-kind intergenerational art exhibit for the gallery, displaying the children’s artwork alongside artists of all ages.

“Children aren’t always considered in art exhibits, so we intentionally created this one to be family friendly and inclusive,” Oliver said.

“This exhibit is such a great way to expose more children to art, especially as arts programs continue to be underfunded or cut in schools,” Muindi said. “Art fosters kids’ critical thinking, builds language skills, and encourages collaboration they may not otherwise get.”

The Muindi Foundation is focused on serving, strengthening and advocating for the low-income and underserved in our community. Its programs provide support resources, educational and

mentorship for low-income elementary age children. To support their work, visit muindifoundation.org

Aegis Gallery of Fine Art has been a Saratoga landmark for over 30 years. Located in the heart of town at 14531 Big Basin Way, Suite 2, Saratoga, 22 local artists show their work year-round with special shows offered each month. As a member of the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce, Aegis actively promotes the artistic aspect of the community through its participation in wine walks and business networking events. For more information, visit aegisgallery.com.

Fatima P., age 11, created "Sunset" at Kids Free Art Day, a workshop in partnership between Aegis Gallery of Fine Arts in Saratoga, and the Muindi Foundation. COURTESY PHOTO.

West Valley College Jazz Combo plays at the scenic Mountain Winery in Saratoga. PHOTO BY JOSHUA MOON-JOHNSON

Going back to school at 50+?

Whether you're looking to explore a new hobby, sharpen your professional skills, or simply meet new people, there’s never been a better time to return to the classroom. Through Senior Guided Pathways, a program developed by SASCC (Successful Aging Solutions and Community Consulting) in partnership with West Valley College, adults 50 and over are discovering just how rewarding lifelong learning can be.

With free tuition, flexible schedules, and a welcoming campus, it’s no surprise that more than 2,000 older adults have enrolled in courses over the past year. But don’t just take our word for it. Here's

what participants from the Spring 2025 semester had to say:

“This was my first class in 25 years. I took Art History and it was fun, challenging, and inspiring. I’m excited to explore more classes now.”

“Taking classes at West Valley College is an enriching and rewarding experience. I simply love it!”

“I enjoyed coming to school every day. The campus is beautiful, the instructors are supportive, and I feel more confident in English now thanks to my ESL class.”

“The music department is very inclusive for us older folks. It makes me want to keep going!”

“I’ve told friends with college-aged kids to consider West Valley College. The quality of instruction and the support from professors is exceptional.”

“The exercise lab classes are fantastic. Perfect for seniors looking to stay active.”

Senior Guided Pathways is a way to stay engaged, connected, and empowered. Whether you're returning to education after decades away or exploring new professional paths, SGP meets you where you are and helps you get where you're going.

And this school year, there’s even more to look forward to. SASCC and West Valley College are preparing to launch California’s first Community

Caregiver Certificate Program, offering hands-on training and job connections for those interested in working in the growing senior care sector.

Courses will be held on campus and at the Saratoga Adult Care Center, which will serve as a skills lab for participants.

Members of the program’s advisory board, including AARP, El Camino Health, and the Alzheimer’s Association, have already committed to hiring program graduates.

But you don’t need to pursue a certificate to benefit. From ceramics and creative writing to physiology, law, and park management, this fall’s SGP course list offers something for everyone.

And thanks to West Valley’s commitment to accessibility, the campus is easy to navigate, the classes are well-structured, and transportation support is available.

“Whether you're exploring a passion or preparing for a second career, SGP offers a community where older learners thrive,” said Dr. Jennifer Taylor-Mendoza, West Valley College President. “We invite everyone to come experience it for themselves.”

Ready to give it a try?

Visit tinyurl.com/sgpwvc to view fall courses and learn how to enroll. Your next chapter might be just one class away.

HSCI

ARTS

ARTS 033A Two-Dimensional Design

ARTS 035A Beginning Life Drawing

ARTS 047A Beginning Watercolor

ARTS 049A Beginning Painting

Residents reflect on what they’re learning now

CONTINUED FROM page 1

safe and creative.”

Using his free-learning teaching style, Coke aims to support students in their artistic endeavors. He emphasizes the importance of persistence when it comes to education.

“I did not have an easy time with education,” Coke said. “I didn't have a lot of support at home, and I encountered some teachers who were not nice. What I have done in the last 15 years is try to be the teacher that I didn't get, because it's really important not to let any particular negative experience make you stop doing art or stop trying to pursue education.”

Because of his own difficulties pursuing an arts education, Coke encourages his students to adopt an attitude of commitment and tenacity while learning. He recalls students who would prepare tiny dabs of paint instead of going for it and using up their paints. That hesitation has become a metaphor in his studio to

when you're not painting,” Coke said. “It's time to paint, and you should put big piles of paint on your pallet. Don't hold back on your creativity. Challenge yourself. It's always worth it to put in your best effort, no matter what you end up producing, because you always have to keep your mind active.”

Even as a teacher, Coke considers himself a learner, still refining techniques he’s absorbed through his own artistic practice.

“I’m learning how to just use my own skills that I have learned from my art teachers, just for the sake of my own art,” Coke said. “I want my students to know that they're learning from an artist, not simply an art teacher.”

Going forward, he plans to produce well-illustrated children's books that promote a message of healing and emotional wellness.

For rising high school junior James Che, learning is an avenue for social improvement. A Bellarmine College Prep student and Saratoga Senior Center technology instructor,

Dance is what keeps me young. I feel like I'm never too old to stop learning and experiencing new things and new dances, and I just try to do the best that I can do.

- Rose Hill

to create a more accessible model that bypasses expensive datacenters. He also takes data science courses online to bolster his researching skills. Much of the learning he does outside of school revolves around his passion projects in research.

emphasize the importance of following through.

“Don't save your paint for

James conducts independent student research on large language models, aiming

“I want to create large language models that can run on personal devices, that can enter new regions that are lower-resource and don't have high-end computers,”

James said. “That's something

that I'm learning right now: creating small models that can run on devices with limited computational resources to address accessibility gaps in artificial intelligence.”

James recalls an early interest in AI and his subsequent drive to understand it further.

“I was the first person in my middle school to use ChatGPT,” James said. “I literally signed up for it the day it was released. So for me, learning stands for the acquisition of knowledge out of passion and curiosity. You're going to understand what interests you, what you want to learn, what you're curious about.”

From this perspective, James interprets learning as something that extends past formal institutions. Even after he leaves high school and college, James anticipates continuing learning through passion projects and courses.

“Learning isn't just math, reading, or science,” James said. “It can take on many forms. It can be AI, it can be learning how to play this new video game or this new sport. Learning should just be done out of passion. It's not repetitive or menial. You don't need to be in school to learn.”

Rose Hill, a 70-year-old dancer and member of the Saratoga Senior Center, is always eager to learn more when it comes to her art. Hill dances hula, belly dance, country western line dance, soul line and a variety of other styles. She started learning hula as a child in Honolulu, Hawaii and continued to pick up new forms of dance throughout her life, including cheer in junior

high. She describes the creative expression inherent in her dance.

“Most children learn what's called the hula, which is a dance of Hawaii, a dance of love, and a dance of friendship,” Hill said. “We're taught from really little how to do the hula, how to move our hips, how to take the steps and how to show what we're interpreting in our story with our hands.”

The most recent form of dance she’s tried is soul line dancing, which she started learning only three months ago.

“I've always loved dance, so I like to keep up with it,” Hill said. “I just want to learn new styles of things, and when I get into a dance, I want to learn everything about that dance. So I love going to concerts and singing like Beyonce, and I've always admired how the backup dancers dance. I wanted to learn how to dance like that.” Hill continues to take lessons in various types of dance and practices weekly with her soul line dance group. They perform shows locally.

“Dance is what keeps me young,” Hill said. “I feel like I'm never too old to stop learning and experiencing new things and new dances, and I just try to do the best that I can do or what I can do. There's some things in some dances that I realized that I can't do, but I just don’t do those types of moves.”

In 2016, Hill performed a dance on America’s Got Talent (accompanied by Charlie, an Elvis-lookalike). She also performed in Las Vegas in 2017.

“I don’t think I’ll ever stop,” Hill said. “I'm going to dance until I'm not able to dance anymore.”

Rose Hill poses at the Saratoga Senior Center luncheon on July 16. A lifelong dancer, Hill embraces every opportunity to learn new styles. “I’m going to dance until I’m not able to dance anymore,” she said. PHOTO BY MENDY MAO.

High school researcher James Che codes a project in Saratoga Library. PHOTO BY MENDY MAO.

College of Adaptive Arts hosts benefit for adults with disabilities

STAFF REPORT

At age 21 or 22, adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) age out of traditional postsecondary education, leaving very few options beyond day programs and vocational training. Many adults with IDD want to continue their education, but they lack the opportunities and pathways to do so.

The College of Adaptive Arts, a nonprofit located on the West Valley College campus in Saratoga, is working to change that by creating a model of higher education that is accessible, equitable and adaptive to each student’s needs.

The school’s enrollment has doubled in the past five years, illustrating the growing demand for these programs in the community. However, the College of Adaptive Arts does not have a reliable funding stream and is turning to donors and supporters to help sustain its mission of providing lifelong learning to adults with disabilities.

On Sunday, Sept. 14, from 2-4 p.m., the College of Adaptive Arts will host its annual Gala Benefit Fundraiser at Mission College in Santa Clara.

The event, themed “Educate. Empower. Evolve: Writing the Next Chapter in Inclusive Higher Education,” will be emceed by two CAA students, Rowan Timmerman and Victoria Rivera. The fundraiser will feature student performances, remarks from Congressman Sam Liccardo and other community leaders, and personal testimonials from students on how CAA has impacted their lives and the broader community.

As the largest annual fundraiser for the organization, the gala will include an auction and raffle featuring trips, gift certificates, wine, art, and more.

“This fundraiser is so important to our organization because we do not have a steady stream of state or federal funding, aside from a small reimbursement from our regional center partners,” said Nicole Kim, CAA’s executive director. “We rely heavily on our donors to help keep our programs running so that we can continue to offer equitable lifelong education for adults with IDD.”

Funds raised will support several key initiatives, including expanding the workforce development and apprenticeship program, assisting with student tuition, funding technology and class supplies, and developing an expansion plan to bring CAA programs to college campuses across the country.

The workforce development program is particularly

significant, blending classroom instruction with on-the-job training to give students experience in various career pathways that are not readily available to adults with disabilities.

said Rivera, who also serves as a CAA apprentice and emcee for the fundraiser.

With today’s uncertain political and economic landscape, many disability and community programs are at

CAA was co-founded in 2009 by Dr. Pamela Lindsay and DeAnna Pursai, who were inspired by loved ones with special needs who were sidelined after aging out of the public school system. The school’s

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are extremely capable of critical thinking, problem solving, and social-emotional awareness, which are all skills needed in higher education and also the workplace. When we give them the tools to succeed, we as an entire community succeed.

“The Workforce Development Program has showed me a lot of opportunities and opened new doors for me,”

risk, making institutions like the College of Adaptive Arts more essential than ever for the IDD community.

- Nicole Kim

philosophy is to offer lifelong learning—with no age limits— to any adult with disabilities who wants to pursue higher

education.

“People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are extremely capable of critical thinking, problem solving and social-emotional awareness, which are all skills needed in higher education and also the workplace,” Kim said. “When we give them the tools to succeed, we as an entire community succeed.”

To purchase tickets, visit auctria.events/2025CAAGala For more information, visit collegeofadaptivearts.org or email info@collegeofadaptivearts.org Mission College is located at 3000 Mission College Blvd, Santa Clara.

Angel Coronado, a professor at the College of Adaptive Arts, works with a student in a CAA classroom on the West Valley College campus in Saratoga. COURTESY PHOTO.

College of Adaptive Arts students pump up the crowd at last year's Gala Benefit Fundraiser. COURTESY PHOTO.

VTA pilot targets Highway 85 noise to improve health and neighborhood wellbeing

BY SERGIO LOPEZ, CAMPBELL MAYOR, VTA CHAIR

Noise might be a nuisance, but it’s also now increasingly recognized by health authorities as a potential health risk. That’s why VTA is focused on bringing relief to West Valley neighbors along noisy sections of State Highway 85 in an innovative new pilot program.

I have the honor of serving as chair of the Santa Clara County Valley Transportation Authority, or VTA. What you may not know is that VTA doesn’t only run our public transit system. Unique among many transit agencies,

VTA also serves as Santa Clara County’s congestion management agency. This means VTA is tasked with supporting multimodal transportation (including bicycle lanes), supporting local governments with land-use planning, and improving air quality.

The landscape of urban planning and smart mobility is ever-changing, which means that there are always new tools out there which VTA can use to manage traffic congestion and its impacts on our neighborhoods and communities.

One of these recently broke ground: the State Route 85 Noise Reduction Program. In partnership with cities along State Route 85

and Caltrans, VTA began this project to reduce the noise and health impacts for residents living along this corridor.

The work goes back a decade, and a report in Phase 1 of the project looked at five potential sites for noise reduction: neighborhoods in Saratoga, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, and San Jose. In Saratoga, the study examined residences in Yuba and Sea Gull Court along the west side of Route 85, north of Saratoga Avenue.

The pilot will replace two older and louder pavement methods (ground/grooved Portland cement concrete) with newer and quieter materials: rubberized hot-mix asphalt and rubberized opengraded asphalt concrete. Other

materials will use a polyester concrete overlay to absorb noise from the surrounding area. Barrier caps were also studied, which will attach to the top of existing fencing to absorb noise. The details may be technical, but the outcome will be simple: less noise and greater peace of mind to surrounding neighborhoods.

While the program as it is being rolled out is a pilot, I am interested in taking what we learn and applying it more broadly. With reasonable investments, we could improve quality of life for residents all throughout our county. We all benefit from having a robust public transit system. Whether or not we individually use public transit, the benefits of a strong system are shared

broadly. These include reduced greenhouse gas emissions, fewer pollutants, and reduced congestion on our roads, making it easier for all of us to get to where we need to. Similarly, we all benefit from the ability to get where we need to. Programs such as this pilot will simply help increase quality of life for those who are most impacted by the transportation systems which help us all.

Learn more at vta.org/ projects/state-route-85noise-reduction-program

Sergio Lopez is mayor of his hometown of Campbell and chair of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority. Email him at sergiol@campbellca.gov with questions or comments.

From left to right: Carolyn Gonot, VTA General Manager; San Jose Councilmember George Casey; Saratoga Councilmember Yan Zhao; County Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga; Campbell Mayor and VTA Chair Sergio Lopez; County Supervisor Sylvia Arenas; Caltrans Division Chief Nick Saleh; and Assemblymember Ash Kalra break ground on the State Route 85 Noise Reduction Program on June 6.

PHOTO COURTESY OF VTA

Polka, Prost, Pretzels, and Party at OktoberFest

Los Gatos!

Dust off your dirndls and lederhosen, grab your friends, and get ready to raise a stein; Oktoberfest Los Gatos is back for its fourth annual celebration on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 12-8 p.m. on the Los Gatos Civic Center Lawn. Presented by KCAT TV & Radio, this free, family-friendly festival blends Bavarian charm with local flair for a day of unforgettable fun, all while raising funds for a great cause.

What began as a grassroots gathering has quickly become one of Los Gatos’ most anticipated events. Each fall, the Civic Center transforms into a picturesque Oktoberfest village, welcoming thousands of locals and visitors ready to toast to tradition, community, and good times. Whether you’re coming for the music, the food, the atmosphere, or all of the above, this year promises even more to love.

The celebration kicks off with a community PROST and ceremonial keg tapping led by the mayor and festival sponsors; a spirited start to a full day of festivities. From 12-4 p.m., festival favorites The Internationals will fill the air with the joyful sounds of Bavaria; think polkas, waltzes, and crowd-pleasing singalongs. Then, from 5-8 p.m., partake in a special dinner menu, grab your drinks, and get ready to dance as The Lucky Devils 9-piece band, one of the Bay Area’s premier party bands, hits the stage with an electrifying live set that’ll have the whole lawn on its feet.

But let’s talk food and drink, because Oktoberfest

wouldn't be complete without hearty, delicious fare. Festival favorites The German Guys return with mouthwatering bratwursts, crispy chicken schnitzels, and giant Germanstyle pretzels, plus a special evening menu of beef meatballs, cheese bratwursts, and crispy potatoes. Wash it all down with a wide selection of imported German beers, local craft brews served from Santa Cruz Tap Trucks, and an elevated wine tasting experience in the all-new Wine Garten, featuring Ancora Vino, Prolific Vines Vineyard, and other local favorites.

New in 2025: the KinderPlatz Carnival Zone, a lively area designed especially for families and kids. Packed with interactive games, classic carnival activities, and playful surprises, KinderPlatz brings a fresh layer of fun to the festival, ensuring that guests of all ages have something to enjoy.

Also making a debut this year is a luxury twist on Main Street, courtesy of Porsche of Los Gatos. Stroll through an exclusive showcase of vintage and luxury Porsche vehicles that combine design, heritage, and horsepower in a jaw-dropping display. It’s the perfect photo op, conversation starter, and nod to the region’s automotive spirit.

Beyond the food, music, and merriment, Oktoberfest Los Gatos supports KCAT’s mission to educate, empower, and inspire. Festival proceeds benefit local media programs that serve students, seniors, and storytellers across generations. The beloved FREE

2b ME program helps provide scholarships for youth to explore their creativity and build confidence through hands-on media experiences. No tests, no stress, just authentic self-expression. Want to get involved? Come as an OFestie or join the celebration as a volunteer. It’s a great way to meet people, support your community, and still enjoy all the festivities. So gather your crew, bring your appetite, and PROST for a cause at one of the most joyful and purposedrivenevents in town.

BY LLOYD RUSSELL

Have you ever wondered how authors get started? Or how they come up with ideas for their novels? What about how they got published? Or how they do their research? Wouldn’t it be interesting to know how they were inspired in the first place? And surely you want to know if they are a plotter or a pantser! You can get all of these answers, and many more, through our book club, the Recycle Book Club (RBC). We have been operating a monthly book club since 2014 where an author Zooms into our meetings, and we get to ask them questions for about 45 minutes!

When we first started, the author actually came to Recycle Bookstore in Campbell to meet with us. Covid changed that and turned us into a Zooming book club. Since then, we’ve added a number of members from other parts of the country, so we decided to keep the meetings on Zoom. Not only has that added to our ranks, but it has also enabled us to book authors from all over the U.S., and even the world!

How does it work? Very simply: our 170+ members (and counting!) get a schedule of upcoming meetings, along with a reminder a couple days beforehand. Then they show up… Or not. There are no RSVPs. We meet for about 20 minutes before the author

Aches & Pains with Sue on the Street: Add a little spice to that wardrobe

BY SUE FENTON

Sometimes our aches and pains are not in our body but in our minds. Do we think about how others perceive the way we dress? Let’s look at how older men dress in the Bay Area.

Recently, my husband and I went to a fundraiser dinner event. Pretty fancy, right? But no, nothing memorable, even though I am very observant— especially of how people present themselves. A chino here, a jean there, but no creativity. A few people came over and commented on what my husband was wearing: stylish blue glasses, a blue dress shirt, and a burgundy sport jacket.

Here in the Bay Area, there isn’t much deviation from the basics—birthday suit modestly covered with a few cloth modifications. But why not shake it up a little? Not just for others, but for yourself. If your clothes don’t

Between the Pages with Lloyd: Recycle Book Club gets the backstory

comes on so that we can talk about the book and give our honest opinions and ratings. We also talk about upcoming events and other RBC-related topics. But the best part of our meeting is asking the author the questions that I listed above, along with whatever else comes to mind. Any member can ask any question at any time! And you know what really separates us from any other book club? We don’t talk much about the book. Our questions are designed to get the nosy backstory. This means that people can Zoom in without having read the book!

We are currently scheduled through February 2026! Here is a list of upcoming authors with the dates and the books

that we (most of us) will read:

Wednesday, August 27, p.m. – Never Plead Guilty (legal murder mystery) –Sheldon Siegel

Wednesday, September 17, 7 p.m. – Everything We Thought Was True (fiction) –Lisa Montanaro

Wednesday, October 22, 7 p.m. – The Rent Collector (fiction) – Camron Wright

Wednesday, November 19, 7 p.m. – Home of the American Circus (fiction) –Allison Larkin

Wednesday, December 10, 7 p.m. – the Girls of Good Fortune (historical fiction) –Kristina McMorris

Wednesday, January 21, 6 p.m. – Tiny Blunders/ Big Disasters: Thirty-Nine

Mistakes that Changed the World Forever (history) –Jared Knott

Wednesday, February 18, 7 p.m. – Far and Away (fiction) – Amy Poeppel

Anyone can join. If you are interested in being on the email list, let me know at lloydrrussell@gmail.com and I will be happy to add you.

This month’s trivia: Who is known as the “Father of Children’s Literature?”

A. Randolph Caldecott

B. Michael L. Printz

C. John Newbery

D. Hugo Gernsback

The answer to last edition’s trivia: C. Sancho Panza

fit well, have them altered. If they’re dated, try Goodwill. Please, don’t cling to what you wore in college.

My husband, who is color blind, asks me every day, “How do I look?” “Does this match?”

When I met him all those years ago, he was still wearing his college wardrobe, ten years post-college. The clothes didn’t fit, and they weren’t stylish. But I saw potential. I could work with it.

So here’s my advice: think about how you look, and slowly add a little extra. Try accessories! It’s like making a stew; it might be fine on its own, but a little spice makes it memorable.

At a luncheon, the wife of my husband’s drably-dressed friend admired his glasses. So I handed them over. When her husband tried them on, he looked ten years younger—and way sharper. Suddenly, no one noticed the balding head.

Guys, ask your spouse or a friend for help. A few updates go a long way.

Let’s go, guys!

Keep your cool: Managing stress and staying calm during summer travel

BY ZACHARY BENITEZ

Summer is an exciting time.

For some, it means a respite from school, and for others, it symbolizes the start of warm weather. Nevertheless, the increase in free time and improving weather during these sunny months results in a worldwide travel surge. One of the industries most impacted by this rapid demand is the airline and aviation business. While these companies love the passenger traffic, they often find themselves encountering a slew of operational issues due to increased demand. We all know how frustrating it is to have our plans change outside of our control, but it's more important than ever that we keep our cool in times of distress.

Before we move further…

I’m Zachary Benitez, a Los Gatos resident, KCAT TV Director, and New York University student studying media and communications.

I’m embarking on a journey to revolutionize how the world engages with commercial aviation by starting a new media site called “The Contrail.” Through timely news reports, transparent flight reviews, and educational articles, I aim to bring clarity to an industry that’s often misunderstood and shrouded in complexity.

I believe commercial aviation isn’t just for frequent flyers–it’s a global connector and a source of wonder that should be accessible to everyone. That said, I'd like to share some of the strategies that help me come to terms with and thrive after travel disruptions.

Travel is stressful. The combination of being outside your normal environment combined with the pressure of being in the right place at the right time throws a lot of people into an elevated state. This results in less rational and more rapid decision-making.

Though good in a pinch, this stressed-out state causes us to lose our cool more easily.

It seems as if a new viral video of people fighting over plane seats pops up every day. But why? The answer is simple: when you get a bunch of stressed-out people in a metal tube fighting for comfort, conflict resolution is not top of mind. In airports and on planes, the mantra fight, flight, or freeze is often reduced to fight. Few travelers are immune to this mindset.

One of the best ways to combat this is to recognize a common goal. For almost all travelers, the goal is reaching a final destination. Human nature leads us to be more compassionate to those with whom we understand and relate to. Recognizing that the people around you are, in a sense, trying to achieve the same thing helps build a level of comradery and increased

patience between passengers.

When something goes awry, one of our natural defenses as humans is to find a party to blame. Blame not only gives people a target to release their frustration, but it also gives the blamer a sense of control over their situation. Unfortunately, when it comes to travel disruptions, many travelers misdirect their blame in times of crisis. Some of an airport's hardest workers, like gate agents and flight attendants, are subject to nastiness and downright inappropriate behavior from disgruntled passengers. The truth of the matter is that a delay or travel disruption is frequently a result of multiple factors, rendering it challenging to find one source to blame. Moreover, it's even more seldom the fault of ground workers and flight crew.

Recently, I watched a passenger yell at a gate agent, claiming they were "getting

screwed" by the airline after they were called out for violating the carry-on bag policy. Not only was this passenger breaking the rules, but they were also under the assumption that the airline and its staff were out to get them. In reality, airlines don't target passengers in an attempt to ruin their trip. Rules are in place for safety, and even something spontaneous, like a delay, is often beyond an airline's control. This isn't to say that some carriers couldn't handle situations better, but I'm confident when I say that they are not to ruin anyone's trip. It's also important to remember that although they can be the bearers of bad news, airline workers have no intention of causing you problems. It is unacceptable to be unpleasant to anyone, including staff members and other passengers, as a result of a travel disruption. No

matter how ugly things look, real travelers never resort to disrespect. As angry as you might be (and yes, there are many valid reasons to be angry while traveling), take a deep breath and remember that the people around you are doing their best.

One of the most significant factors in your success as a traveler is your mindset. If you come into the airport expecting a smooth experience, you’re setting yourself up for disaster. The only thing one can expect is the unexpected. Delays and operational issues come in all shapes and sizes, and the best travelers are those who are prepared for anything.

"A champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fall."

- Serena Williams

Though air travel wasn't exactly the main motive behind this quote from tennis star Serena Williams, it can still be aptly applied. By failing to bounce back after a flight disruption, passengers are jeopardizing their vacations by carrying frustration throughout the trip. A flight delay sucks, but it's worse to lose out on precious time with your family (or yourself) by meddling in the past.

By recognizing a common goal, avoiding hasty blame, and setting realistic expectations, you can more easily keep your cool during the travel season. There is no doubt that travel is difficult, and when things get out of whack, make sure to take care of yourself. Always remember, everyone around you is only human, just like you.

Reach Zachary Benitez at zach@thecontrail.org

A passenger travels through the Copenhagen Airport.

PHOTO BY ZACHARY BENITEZ

Several planes arriving at and departing from LaGuardia Airport.

PHOTO BY ZACHARY BENITEZ

Ask the Audiologist: Tinnitus questions answered

BY MARCIA FARISS, M. A., F-AAA

Many people have been asking about tinnitus, so today’s column will address several of those questions. However, this column is not intended to be a comprehensive discussion of tinnitus.

When additional questions are posed, we’ll attempt to cover them in a future column.

Q: What is tinnitus?

A: Tinnitus is defined as a noise in your head or ears, primarily heard only by you (subjective tinnitus). Tinnitus noises most often are whistles, clicks, hums, ringing, roaring, or hissing.

Rarely can others hear it but if they do, it’s often pulsatile (in time with your heart beat) in nature. Generally it is not dangerous but can indicate other systemic issues.

Q: What is the proper pronunciation of the word?

A: The correct pronunciation of the word is TI-nuh-tus in the US; however, the UK pronounces it Ti-NIHtus. Professionals emphasize the first syllable but some lay people emphasize the middle syllable; while technically both are correct, the preferred pronunciation according to Miriam Webster and the American Tinnitus Association is to accent the first syllable.

Q: How prevalent is tinnitus?

A: Very! Nearly 24% of older adults experience some type of tinnitus; nearly 10% of young people (teens through mid 20s) experience tinnitus. More than 50 million people in the U.S. suffer from tinnitus. It

can be constant or intermittent.

Q: What causes tinnitus?

First, tinnitus is not a disease; it is a symptom of an underlying medical issue. The most common causes are: Noise exposure, hearing loss, medications, earwax, ear infections, head or neck injuries and circulatory system problems.

Less common tinnitus risk factors include: Eustachian tube dysfunction, Meniere’s Disease, TMJ (the two joints joining the lower jaw to the skull) disorders, vestibular tumors, otosclerosis, autoimmune diseases, and blood vessel disorders.

Q: Is there a cure for tinnitus?

A: Maybe. Depending upon the cause of the tinnitus,

there may well be valid medical treatments that will eliminate or mitigate the tinnitus. Comprehensive medical and audiological evaluations are the best way to determine the cause and possible remediation of the tinnitus.

You can cover up or “mask” tinnitus by having background white noise or ambient noises available (music, recordings of waterfalls, or other pleasant sounds). Not only will it mask the tinnitus, but it will help refocus your attention away from it.

Based on extensive advertising seemingly everywhere, “miracle cures for tinnitus” exist. There are a plethora of fraudulent or scam “cures” for tinnitus; do not waste your money on them! They are perfect examples of “buyer beware” because

realistically there is no “miracle cure.”

Q: Can certain medications cause tinnitus? What about foods; can they cause tinnitus?

A: Absolutely! There is a long list of medications that can cause tinnitus. Since new medicines are constantly being introduced, it is prudent to check with your doctor and/or pharmacist before taking them. Often the tinnitus disappears once the medication is no longer being used.

A partial list of common medicines that can cause tinnitus include: aspirin, diuretics, NSAIDS, (Ibuprofen, Motrin), aminoglycosides (Vancocin, cis-platinum); also, some anti-anxiety, blood pressure, allergy, anticonvulsant and chemotherapy drugs.

Foods that can cause tinnitus: Thus far there is no proof that foods can cause tinnitus; however, there are foods that can exacerbate or cause spikes in tinnitus: caffeine, alcohol, salt, processed foods, MSG, sugar, and saturated fats.

Q: Can stress affect tinnitus?

A: Yes, most definitely. Depending on how you view your tinnitus, your response can influence the tinnitus. If it disturbs you, the brain might interpret it as a threat to you; if that is the case, then you will likely become anxious about it. That worry will amplify your perception of it and you may become even more stressed. Some have described this as a “vicious cycle.” In other words, the more it bothers you, the worse it will seem.

Reducing the stress in your life is helpful in managing tinnitus. Meditation, yoga, lessening issues that are stressful, exercising, going to places where nature is plentiful—parks, coastal areas, or even “vegging out” and watching clouds glide through the sky. Also, exercising can reduce your general level of stress and that includes the anxiety often associated with tinnitus.

Additional reliable online information is available from Mayo Clinic, Johns Hopkins, UCSF, Cleveland Clinic, American Tinnitus Association, and other reputable medical and professional sites.

Please feel free to submit questions regarding hearing, hearing aids, lipreading (speechreading), tinnitus, ear pain, vertigo, or other related queries to outlook@sascc.org or hear@gizmology.com

Poem of the Month: “Peace is…”

BY LAUREL KAU

(second place, 2025 Los Gatos Annual Poetry Contest, Youth Category)

Peace is...

From the leaves of an oak to the small needles of a pine swaying in the wind, that doesn't rhyme. That brings me peace, love, and joy.

From the birds chirping in the evening to the misty morning sky, I feel calm, tired, sleepy, and even happy!

The water flows, the water falls. But the lilypad is still standing tall (short). Hearing this makes me laugh and want to dunk into a waterfall.

Flowers blooming from the sky, Ack! A fiery ball in the sky! Puffy clouds in the air always have time to spare. Knowing this, I am cool, my spirit lifts higher.

From flowers to flame, one destroys another, but blooms in its path.

Sea foam rising from the sand, soft and peaceful, it still stands. I am determined and as calm as a clam.

Water trickling down a stream, close your eyes and imagine the dream.

The wolf shooting through the wood as fast as a flame no one sees. Everything is in perfect harmony, only one can see. I feel peace

CEDAR CEDAR CREEK CREEK

Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Center Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Center

Ice

a Ice

a reminder of reminder of simpler times. simpler times.

Whole-Health Dentistry: Why Your Mouth Matters More Than You Think

by Dr James Lin Los Gatos Dentist

As we age, staying healthy becomes more about prevention than just treatment You may already be managing conditions like heart disease or diabetes or simply want to maintain a high quality of life But there’s one area often overlooked: the mouth

We believe oral health is deeply connected to one’s total well-being physically and emotionally This philosophy, known as whole-health dentistry, recognizes that what happens in one’s mouth can impact their entire body

Scientific research confirms these links: Heart Disease: Gum disease (periodontitis) increases inflammation throughout the body Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and contribute to clogged arteries, raising your risk of heart attack or stroke.

Diabetes: Gum disease makes it harder to manage blood sugar, while high blood sugar worsens gum problems. It’s a cycle that requires proactive care.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Common in older adults due to medications, dry mouth reduces saliva’s protective effects, increasing the risk of cavities and infections

Cavities & Tooth Loss: Wear and tear on natural and restored teeth happens over several years of daily use Aging can lead to exposed vulnerable areas and increasing the likelihood of decay

Gum Disease: Nearly half of adults over 65 live with some form of gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and complicate other health issues

Neglecting oral health can mean more doctor visits, unexpected expenses, and a lower quality of life. But it doesn’t have to be this way

“Dr Lin and his staff are top-notch in every aspect of the consumer experience! Great scheduling and friendly customer service and most importantly he and his staff are thorough and thoughtful in taking the time to communicate and engage us in care decisions and procedures “

dental visits due to a fixed income or no longer having dental insurance Others may have avoided the dentist for years due to negative past experiences If that’s you, you’re not alone Your story matters to us.

No Insurance? No problem!

We welcome patients without insurance and offer clear, honest pricing through our Dental Savings Plan We focus on prevention and long term solutions to help you avoid costly problems later We take pride in our ability to communicate options so you feel confident in your decisions.

If your smile has ever held you back from eating comfortably, socializing, or just feeling like yourself we want to help you define your version of victory. Maybe that means living pain-free, restoring confidence, or simply enjoying a meal without worry Our job is to meet you where you are and guide you from there.

Ready to feel heard? You have just found the right people Give us a call! Let’s get to know each other and take the first step toward better health.

Sincerely,

James Lin, DMD, FAGD

Hearing Loss and Cognitive Decline

Do Hearing Aids Affect Cognition?

Christine Throm, Au D

Have you thought that hearing aids are unnecessary? You may be surprised to learn that although hearing aids may not be able to reverse hearing loss, hearing aids can slow the progression of cognitive decline. An ignored or undiagnosed hearing impairment can turn into chronic depression, anxiety as well as loneliness. This makes prevention of hearing loss crucial: and annual hearing screenings along with hearing devices are the best way to do that.

Living with untreated hearing loss puts a strain on the brain. As you struggle to hear what’s being said, your brain goes into overdrive trying to help you hear clearly. This can make you feel exhausted at the end of the day, and you’ll have a hard time focusing on anything in the evening. When you have hearing loss, it’s not just your hearing abilities that change. You spend so much energy straining to hear that you don’t have energy left over to understand what’s being said or have the brain power to focus on tasks and get things done.

The good news is that treating hearing loss with hearing aids can mitigate these cognitive effects! A study published in 2018 in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society examined the cognitive performance of adults. They looked at data from over 2,000 older adults who had completed cognitive and memory tests every 2 years for 18 years.

Older adults with hearing loss had more rapid rates of cognitive decline, but older adults who wore hearing aids mitigated these declines. This means that treating hearing loss with hearing aids can slow cognitive decline in older adults and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. The older adults who treated their hearing loss with hearing aids showed slower rates of cognitive decline than before they started wearing hearing aids.

Untreated hearing loss is a communication barrier. Improved communication is reported by hearing loss sufferers who use hearing devices, and this can then result in better mood, improved social ability, and increased levels of cognition.

Modern hearing devices help the brain to remain engaged and active, which in turn helps prevent cognitive deterioration. Because most of the work of hearing is done by the brain, doctors and researchers have adopted a “brain-first” focus that will help people remain healthy and happy well into the golden years.

Free Community Seminar

Want more information about hearing health?

Dr. Throm has brought back her acclaimed, medically based, Listen Up Café lecture series!

Friday, Aug 15, 2025: Hearing Loss & Cognitive Decline Friday, Sept 12, 2025: Hearing Loss and Risk of Falls Friday, Oct 17, 2025: Hearing Loss and Depression Friday, Nov 14, 2025: Diabetes and Hearing Loss (Dates and location subject to change)

We’ll have good coffee, light refreshments, and a great discussion—see you there! Seating is limited for these FREE events. (Call or email us for a free information sheet if you are unable to attend.)

Please call for time and location information (408) 673-4052

If you already have hearing aids, check out the latest options in smart hearing devices—you may be shocked at what the newest hearing devices can do! Your quality of life may be due for an upgrade – so come in today!

We’re proud to have served Los Gatos, Saratoga, Campbell, Cupertino, San Jose and the entire Bay Area for 50 years!

Our team has the knowledge and tools to determine the cause of your hearing loss. If a hearing loss is detected, we have premium hearing aid technology that can help!

Providing the right solution for Your Life. Your Style.

(on the corner of National and Los Gatos-Almaden Rd.) www.LosGatosAudiology.com

Dr. Christine Throm Owner/Audiologist

Dr. Kelly Brennan Audiologist