MOTORCYCLIST KILLED IN CRASH ON SOQUEL SAN JOSE ROAD
Smith’s bike collided with SUV after hitting mountain roadway
Drew Penner, Editor
The Los Gatos motorcyclist who was killed last month in a Santa Cruz County crash has been identified by authorities as 68-year-old Craig Smith.
On Dec. 18, around 9:41am, CHP officers responded to the Soquel San Jose Road accident scene north of Old Turnpike Road.
Smith was driving a blue 2012 BMW motorcycle southbound on Soquel San Jose Road at an undetermined speed, police said.
A 64-year-old man from Aptos was driving a green 2023 Subaru Forester with two passengers and three dogs on board, northbound on the same road, at an undetermined speed.
“For reasons under investigation, the BMW and its driver collided with the asphalt roadway,” CHP Capt. Jason Grimm said as part of his initial report. “After the initial crash, the BMW and the driver continued in a south-easterly direction, resulting in a collision with the Subaru.”
Smith, who was wearing a helmet, sustained major injuries and was pronounced dead
LGHS GRAD A FINALIST FOR FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME
His number—41—was retired by the Idaho State Bengals
Mike Garcia, Contributor
Jared Allen, who graduated from Los Gatos High School, has been named a finalist for induction into the Pro Football
Hall of Fame. Allen, who was born in Dallas, was raised on a ranch in Morgan Hill, where he attended Live Oak High School. Allen played college ball at Idaho State, where his number 41 was retired by the Idaho State Bengals. Selected by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fourth round of the 2004 draft, he
became a five-time pro bowler. He was a four time All-Pro in the league and a two-time sacks leader. Allen—a 250lbs+, 6’6” defensive end—was traded to the Minnesota Vikings for a first round pick and two third round picks. While he played
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DINAH’S EVENT LOG: HELLO 2025
Dinah Cotton, Contributor Goodbye 2024.
Have you resolved anything for our new year? We are still in recovery mode from recent challenges. A favorite restaurant and disco closed recently. We can hope to see old and new friends at new hangouts—and around our extraordinary town. Time continues to march on.
We Los Gatans are resilient, with Covid in the rear view mirror. And now, looking ahead to the bird flu… We got this, Los Gatos! Let’s tear up the 2024 calendar—Oh wait! It is computerized for most of us. What satisfaction is there in that?I resolve to keep both computer and paper calendars this year, which promises to be a good one.
Welcome 2025.
OUT & ABOUT 2025
DOWNTOWN ICE Circle of
VICTIM MOURNED
Crash, from page 1 at the scene by medical personnel. The driver of the Subaru was uninjured. No injuries were reported to the passengers or dogs.
Palms, 120 South Market St., San Jose, ice skating open daily through Jan. 20. sjdowntownice.com
HAPPY DRAGON For the first time in 65 years, the thrift shop benefiting Pacific Clinics, a nonprofit organization, is open on Sunday s, 1-4pm at 245 W. Main St. And Saturday-Monday 10am-1pm, Tuesday-Friday 10am4pm. Donations accepted Tuesday–Thursday and Saturday 10am-noon. happydragonthriftshop.org
ENVIRONMENT Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District preserves are an ideal setting for a wide range of activities, such as “Habitat Restoration: French Broom Removal” Jan. 2, “History On Two Wheels” Jan. 4, and “Fungal Fun” Jan. 5. openspace.org/where-to-go/what-to-do. FANTASY OF LIGHTS Vasona Park’s light show continues through Jan. 5. Begins at 4pm. For 13-and-up $18.76, youth aged 4-12 $9.35, children 3-and-under are free.
At the time, police said it was unclear if alcohol or drugs were factors in the crash.“The California Highway Patrol urges everyone to always drive within the speed limit, avoid distractions and obey all traffic laws,” Grimm said.
A fundraiser for the Smith family, organized by family friend Christy
Broadway hit and a Tony Award-winning hilarious satirical musical. Presented by South Bay Musical Theatre.
SLACK KEY Keola Beamer and Jeff Peterson at the Carriage House, Villa Montalvo Feb. 6, 7:30pm, tickets $73-$78. An evening of superb Hawaiian guitar, with dancing by Moanalani Beamer.
MMMM Monday Monthly Morning Movie at CineLux Los Gatos Theatre, 43 N. Santa Cruz Jan. 6, at 9:45am. $10 includes: movie, coffee and a pastry. January’s movie? “Mufasa,” the orphan who would be king. Original songs partly by Lin-Manuel Miranda of “Hamilton” fame. The primary purpose of MMMM is to provide community socialization for older adults. Any profits go to the LG Thrives Foundation, which supports future events and our new community center planning. losgatosthrives.org.
NATURAL Los Gatos Creek Trail cleanup. Los Gatos High School Key Club, Los Gatos Kiwanis Club. Jan. 11, 10-11:30am, meet at Old Forbes Mill parking lot behind 55 Church St. lgkiwanis.org
URINETOWN THE MUSICAL comes to Saratoga Civic Theatre 13777 Fruitvale Ave., Saratoga, Jan. 25Feb. 15. Tickets: southbaymt.com/ A
Dally, has already raised $3,180 towards funeral costs.
“He enjoyed spending time with his family, racing sailboats locally and taking rides with his motorcycle club,” Dally posted on the GoFundMe page. “Craig’s tragic death has overwhelmed Josie and his family simply
GALA FOR BLUE Police Officers Ball, Testarossa Winery, 300 College Ave., March 8, 6:30pm. It’s never too early to plan for a glamorous evening of culinary excellence and fine wines. Black tie optional, seated gourmet dinner supporting Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department. lgmspolicefoundation.org
ASIDE Silicon Valley Pizza Week is coming to Los Gatos. It will be a 10-day celebration (Jan. 31-Feb. 9) dedicated to—what else—pizza! The world’s favorite food. Look here for participants, special offers, menus and on website Silicon Valley Pizza Week. Fun Fact: “The first pizzeria, Antica Pizzeria, opened in Naples, Italy, in 1738.”
With winter's chill setting in, most trees now are without their leaves. They look a little forlorn. It’s as if they’re saving up for a springtime burst. Where else in our world do you see palm trees next to statuesque redwoods? The exotic palms and stately redwoods are much like our residents, a mixed bag of amazing folks who choose to make Los Gatos home.
Gotta love it here, winter’s chill and all.
does not have the funds to cover the funeral costs.”
Smith, a test engineer at GE, is survived by his wife Josie and their three daughters.
STORYTELLER Mrs. Claus reads Christmas tales to children at the Los Gatos Farmers’ Market, on Dec. 22.
IN BLOOM Chrysanthemum in an outdoor garden in Los Gatos.
FULL-STEAM SERVICE FINALE
As seafood restaurant closes, a waiter shares his hospitality story
Faizi Samadani, Contributor
After being born in Los Gatos, Tony Borgese Jr. relocated to the East Coast at the age of two. He often wondered about the place he left behind at such an early age. Then, one day in his late 20s, he headed full-steam ahead to Silicon Valley, arriving at the doorstep of Steamer’s Grillhouse an hour after landing in San Jose Mineta International Airport.
“Steamer’s would be perfect for you,” his brother’s wife said.
Borgese had fashioned a resume with a golden border—a ticket, he hoped, to a glorious front-of-house wonderland.
He had just a single copy of his resume on him. But, as it turned out, that was enough.
After Steamer’s announced, a few weeks back, it would be closing after 45 years in business, Borgese has been playing back scenes in his mind of his days at the upscale restaurant in Old Town Los Gatos—start -
ing with that first one from 2006.
“Are you a good b*********, or a professional waiter?” Paul Matulich, one of the owners, asked him, he recalled in an interview.
“I’m a little bit of both, but I can be whatever you want me to be.” Borgese remembers replying.
“You know what? We don’t have a spot for you,” Matulich said. “But, I’m willing to make one.”
From that moment on, Borgese felt a strong sense of loyalty to the Steamer’s family. They’d taken a chance on him, and he wanted to make sure he didn’t let them down. His 17-year-long career there is proof he didn’t.
Jordan Afsharpour, a 36-year-old colleague, says Borgese was always the sort of guy to offer positive reinforcement on the floor.
“Tony’s probably one of our best servers,” he said, from behind the bar while pouring one of his last drinks. He could carry eight entree plates at a time, Afsharpour noted.
“It looks like a magic trick,” he said, emphasizing Borgese is the real deal. Borgese, now 44, recalls customers rolling in with crying newborns—
THE
ART
OF SERVICE
Tony Borgese Jr. says farewell to the restaurant he served at for the last 17 years. Coworkers say he was a positive force on the front-of-house team.
a final meal. One group that made the pilgrimage this December was a family of regulars. About five years back, they’d begun sitting in his section consistently. He learned their orders by heart.
After their meal, as they exited Steamer’s, one of them turned to him and said, “This is for you Tony.”
who are now about to graduate high school.
“That’s what this place embodies,” Borgese said, adding while the food got them through the door, he never forgot that it would be the service that would bring them back.
One repeat diner in his section was in her 90s, Borgese said.
“I wanted to approach every table and customer just how I wanted to be treated,” he said. “It’s very natural here, and the crew includes me in their lives outside of Steamer’s. And that means a lot to know I’ve made a family.”
Sometimes, Borgese said, he’d even wait on these customers for free.
Matulich says it’s hard to find workers who are the right fit for the Steamer’s atmosphere.
“All my servers came out of the same mold,” he said. “But they bring their own qualities.”
He says Borgese was an important part of what made the restaurant such a local touchstone.
“He was committed,” Matulich said. Shortly after the news broke that Steamer’s was closing on Christmas Eve, customers came streaming in for
Once he’d completed his side duties and clocked-out for the day, he wandered over to the gym and opened the envelope.
Inside, he saw something that stopped him in his tracks. Borgese was holding the equivalent of a month’s rent. He was stunned by the expression of gratitude.Borgese said the owners once helped him find an apartment, and says they’d pay a coworker’s rent if they were having a bad month.
“I’ve seen them buy people’s cars and say, ‘We’ll work out a payment plan,’ then not use the plan—and let them keep the car. I’ve watched them treat the coworkers like family.”
*With files from Drew Penner.
CORRECTION
In the “A sweet holiday season in Los Gatos" story that appeared in last week’s edition, the name of local business Fleur de Cocoa was misspelled and the location of OY! Bakery was misidentified. It should have said “The Polentaria.” We regret the errors.
MANAGEMENT The team behind Steamer’s Grillhouse won’t say it’s the end of the line for the business, but they don’t have a new location to announce, either. The restaurant had an encore event on Friday night to get rid of as much alcohol in its cellars as possible.
SNORING KILLS
Scary statement. 54 million people in the USA are living with this nightmare. Poor breathing and poor sleep attacks the brain and heart. 37 million people that snore are battling this heartache associated with snoring. In 2017 Dentists were mandated to screen for obstructive sleep apnea. We offer a $1000.00 coupon for you to use at our dental practice. No money out of your pocket. A (free screening) to help protect your heart and brain. Tired of being tired? Get some answers today.
DISCOVER LOST GATOS
REMEMBERING THE RAILROAD ERA PT. 1
The “iron horse” arrives, thanks to Irish immigrant’s deal with “Slippery Jim”
Alan Feinberg, Contributor
Of all the events in Los Gatos’ history, none had a more lasting impact than the arrival of the railroad. In this two part series, we’ll explore how the “iron horse” became the driving force behind the transformation of our town from an obscure little village into a prominent transportation hub and economic powerhouse.
Our story begins in 1876 when two ambitious men met in San Francisco and formed an unlikely business partnership. James Graham Fair (18311894) was an Irish immigrant who became one of the richest men on the West Coast when his Consolidated Virginia Mining Company struck the largest gold and silver veins ever discovered. Known as “Slippery Jim” for his questionable ethics, Fair sought every opportunity to increase his wealth. Alfred Edwin Davis (1828-1907) came to California from New Jersey
during the Gold Rush. But unlike Fair, he didn’t strike it rich. Crudely nicknamed “Hog” for his girth, his vision far exceeded his grasp. One of Davis’ dreams was to develop the East Bay with a railroad line connecting Oakland to San Jose. When he presented his plan to Slippery Jim, Fair recognized the potential for substantial gain and readily embraced the investment opportunity.
Together with two additional investors, the men purchased the assets of the defunct Santa Clara Valley Railroad, including a partially completed rail line from Dumbarton Point to Santa Clara, and founded the South Pacific Coast Railroad. Davis, who was recognized for his sales and negotiation skills, was named president of the company while the others remained silent partners.
Drawing inspiration from railroad tycoons like Cornelius Vanderbilt, the partners’ ambitious plan was to build an extensive rail network, not just in the East Bay but throughout the Bay Area and all the way into the San Joaquin Valley. It would connect the bustling seaport of Santa Cruz with the rapid-
with a compact turning radius, enabling trains to navigate tight corners with ease. Locomotives were smaller, less costly and easier to maintain.
The company’s initial plan was to extend the rail line from Santa Clara to the east side of Los Gatos near Forbes Mill. When surveyors determined that route to be unfeasible, they selected the undeveloped west side of the creek. Tracks were laid into town where the long narrow parking lots are today and across W. Main Street to the current location of the Town Plaza where a small train depot was built.
When the first train arrived in 1878, many of the town’s 1,000 or so residents gathered to watch the massive wood-fired, cinder-belching iron horse roll to a stop. Despite the spectacle, it’s doubtful that anyone on that fateful day could have predicted what a profound effect the railroad would have on all aspects of Los Gatos life.
Los Gatos was the southern terminus of the railroad for the next two years. When our story concludes next month, I’ll review the monumental task of completing the rail line over the Santa Cruz Mountains.
ly growing cities of San Jose, Oakland and San Francisco, and ultimately link with the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, making it the largest narrow-gauge rail network in the country.
Narrow gauge offered a simpler and more economical alternative to standard railroad tracks and was used extensively throughout the rugged terrain of the West. With rails only three feet wide, it was possible to lay tracks
Alan Feinberg is a local historian and founder of the LOST Gatos Project www. lostgatos.com. His mission is to generate enthusiasm among Los Gatos residents for remembering and preserving our town’s unique character and historic treasures before they’re lost forever. For more Los Gatos history, download the free mobile app Discover LOST Gatos and take a self-guided walking tour through our historic downtown.
FIRST TRAIN STATION The smiling boy in knickers is leaning on a hitching post on Front Street (now Montebello Way) where the Parkside restaurant parklet is located today.
STEAM ENGINE Alice Matty stands on a locomotive.
Los Gatos
POP POP’S OPTIMISTIC OUTLOOK FOR 2025
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND FUTURE GOALS
I’m particularly proud of my involvement in various community organizations. My work with the Rotary Club of Los Gatos, the Los Gatos Thrives Foundation, and the Community Health and Senior Services Commission has allowed me to make a tangible impact on my community.
As we move into 2025, I’m excited about the future. The Los Gatos Thrives Foundation’s ambitious project to build a new community center is gaining momentum, and I’m confident that our collective efforts will bring it to fruition. Additionally, I’m committed to addressing mental health issues within our community as a member of the Community Health and Senior Services Commission. Lissa and I co-chair the community project and grants committee in Rotary Club of Los Gatos and following an activity-filled year of volunteer endeavors in 2024, we’re planning more volunteer projects, including a Red Cross blood drive, in 2025. I’m also exploring other volunteer opportunities.
A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS
Jeffrey P. Blum , Contributor
As my grandkids call me, “Pop Pop,” I find myself navigating the inevitable march of time. While recent health challenges, like hernia surgery and a persistent snoring problem (these are but a few of the conditions I am having to address), have forced me to confront my mortality, they’ve also illuminated a renewed sense of purpose and optimism for the year ahead.
A YEAR OF UNEXPECTED TWISTS
The aging process, as I’ve recently learned, is a series of unexpected detours. My recent double-sided, double hernia surgery, a stark contrast to the simpler procedure I underwent decades ago, has been a humbling experience. The recovery process this time has been arduous, filled with dis-
comfort and limitations. However, it has also provided an opportunity for reflection and gratitude. I’m thankful for the support of my loved ones who have guided me through this challenging period. Last time I had hernia surgery I was back in the swimming pool and in the courtroom arena within days, no such luck this time. My days have instead been filled with painful nights, daytime naps, and many trips to the bathroom.
Similarly, my nightly symphony of snores has become a source of both amusement and frustration for my long-suffering partner, Lissa. This unwelcome development has led me down a veritable rabbit hole of snoring remedies. Nose strips, mouth tape, even a sleep study for sleep apnea—all have been enlisted in the war against
the snore. Currently, I’m experimenting with a device called SnoreRx, hoping it will finally bring some semblance of peace to our shared slumber. These challenges have forced me to reevaluate my priorities. While my athletic pursuits, like swimming, Peloton riding and weightlifting, have been curtailed, I’ve found solace in quieter and less challenging joys. Writing, reading and volunteering have become integral parts of my life. I won’t be a candidate for Jeopardy, but maybe my reading will make me smarter and more efficient in my volunteer activities. Post-surgery, I’ll transition to indoor rowing, a less strenuous but still fulfilling form of exercise. No more competitive swimming: my hands and feet weren’t long enough and finlike enough anyway.
Perhaps the most significant development of all: I’ve taken a leap of faith and proposed to Lissa. We’ve been together for thirteen years, so this isn’t a rash decision. After over four decades as a divorce attorney, I’m embracing a new chapter filled with love, hope and optimism. In a moment of unexpected courage, I surprised her on Thanksgiving Eve with a heartfelt proposal, accompanied by a rather botched rendition of an Elvis Presley song (“Falling In Love With You”). I shocked her to the core, as she was convinced, I would never get married.
As I reflect on the past year, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences, both good and bad, that have shaped me. While the future is uncertain, I approach it with a sense of hope and anticipation. 2025 holds the promise of new beginnings, personal growth, and continued community involvement.
Apart from the marriage thing, Pop Pop may not be going big in 2025, but he’s proceeding cautiously and meaningfully.
CHEERS Our columnist Jeffrey Blum looks back on a memorable 2024 and looks forward to the days ahead in the new year.
LOS GATOS IS THE TOWN OF CHAMPIONS
2024 was another banner year for Los Gatos sports
Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor
When we look back at 2024, it will be remembered as one of the finest in Los Gatos sports history. Los Gatos High School tends to dominate the local sports chatter, but uber-talented athletes and teams from every age level and division—youth, college and professional—-turned in praise-worthy performances.
In no particular order, let’s take a look back at some of the biggest stories of the year.
WILDCATS’ CHAMPIONSHIP WINTER
There are only five sports teams in competition during the high school winter calendar, and four of Los Gatos High’s squads—boys and girls basketball, boys soccer and wrestling—won league championships.
And three of the five LGHS winter sports teams—boys basketball, girls soccer and wrestling—were crowned Central Coast Section champions. For the second straight season, the girls basketball team ran the table and went a perfect 12-0 in Santa Clara Valley Athletic League De Anza Division action.
Led by the trio of Ashley Childers, Nicole Steiner and Claire Galbo, the Wildcats won every De Anza Division contest by double digits and earned a coveted berth in the CCS Open Division tournament in February.
The boys basketball team won its third consecutive league title and followed that up with a 58-54 win over Menlo-Atherton High in the CCS Division I championship game. Scotty Brennan had 16 points and 10 rebounds and Nolan Koch scored 15 points as the Wildcats avenged a loss to the Bears in the season-opener.
LGHS also had shining moments on the pitch. The girls soccer team won the program’s sixth CCS title— but first since 2014—in a 2-1 overtime win over Piedmont Hills High. The dynamic Macie Yannoni—the shortest player on the field—scored on a
header in the 94th minute for the game-winner.
Caitlyn Simons recorded assists on both goals, the first a textbook diagonal pass from the right flank to a hardcharging Darcy Armstrong, who scored in the 33rd minute. The boys soccer team won the SCVAL El Camino Division championship and advanced to the CCS D-II championship match.
The Wildcats’ semifinal victory over Menlo School was a game for the ages, with LGHS prevailing in a marathon penalty kick shootout, 12-11. The first half featured three ties, three lead changes, furious back and forth action, and
physical play that resulted in the head referee issuing a half-dozen yellow cards.
Keegan Mctighe proved clutch by scoring the team’s final two goals, including one in the 91st minute. Goalkeeper Leon Sarashki made two acrobatic saves in the PK shootout that helped lead them to victory.
Meanwhile, the wrestling team punished opponents on the mat, going undefeated in the SCVAL De Anza before placing a program record 12 wrestlers in the CCS Masters Finals—and all 12 medaled (sixth place or better).
EJ Parco won the title at 150 pounds, while Antonio Rodriguez (120), Joseph Pavlov-Ramirez (126), Timmy Murabito (138) and Lucas Pannell (157) earned second-place finishes in their respective weight classes. Despite the absence of Dylan Pile— the defending CCS Masters Finals champion at 160 pounds—the Wildcats still managed to top 200 points in the Championships for just the third time in program history, good enough for a runner-up finish in the team standings behind national powerhouse Gilroy High. In the CIF State Championships, Parco placed third and Rodriguez fifth.
IN THE THROES OF SUCCESS Los Gatos High School field hockey celebrates a crucial goal against St. Ignatius.
SPORTS
BRENNAN GOES OFF, THEN STAYS HOME
The game of the year—at least on the hardwood—had to be the Wildcats’ riveting 82-80 win over Santa Teresa High in the CCS D-I boys hoops semifinals in February.
Brennan went off for a career-high 31 points in front of a standing-room only crowd at Sunnyvale’s Fremont High. The contest featured 10 ties and an incredible 22—yes, 22–lead changes, the last coming on Brennan’s driving layup in which he spun and juked a couple of defenders in the lane, drew a foul and hit the ensuing free throw to give the wildcats a 81-80 lead with 19.3 seconds remaining.
“Honestly, I kind of threw it up and it went in,” he said. “I threw up a prayer. … I was thinking, ‘I hope this goes in. I threw it up there and it went in. Thank God.”
Brennan’s tour de force performance was magnificent enough. How-
ever, the family’s decision to keep their house in Los Gatos so he could finish out his senior year at LGHS was an equally seismic moment.
That decision had to be made because in January Brennan’s dad, Brent, had accepted the position to become the new University of Arizona head football coach. With Scotty being able to finish out his senior year at LGHS, the football team returned a player who became its starting quarterback and the boys basketball team returned one of the best playmaking wings in the CCS.
THE BIG(GE) SHOW
Any time a local baseball product gets called up to the MLB—AKA, the Big Show—it’s headline worthy news.
Enter Hunter Bigge. The 2016 LGHS graduate made his Major League Baseball debut with the Chicago Cubs on July 9 at Baltimore, pitching a scoreless inning of relief. Reality was better than a dream for the 26-year-old Bigge, a burly 6-foot-1,
205-pound right-hander whose path to the Majors has involved enough twists and turns to fill a Stephen King novel.
For the season, Bigge was injured, promoted, recalled, traded and optioned on four separate occasions. He finished the season in the American League after being traded to the Tampa Bay Rays on July 28.
Bigge started the season in the Minors but received the news of a lifetime when he was summoned to Iowa Cubs Manager Marty Pevey’s office on July 6.
“The last time I was told to go to the manager’s office, I was being sent down to Double-A (early in the 2023 season),” said Bigge, who graduated from Harvard University in 2021.
However, Bigge’s initial trepidation quickly turned into calm assurance.
“I knew I was pitching well, and in the back of my mind I sensed I might get called up to the big leagues,” Bigge said. “I walked into his office and my heart was racing. He said, ‘Pack your bags, you’re going to play for the Chicago Cubs tomorrow.’ I had a big smile on
my face for five minutes. Then I started crying. It was an emotional rush. I’ve been playing baseball my whole life and it’s been a dream of mine to play in the big leagues. I’ve been thinking about that moment since I was 10 years old, so it was kind of cool to have it happen. It didn’t feel real.”
SPLAINE IS CLUTCH
Tommy Splaine, a 2021 LGHS graduate, delivered a one-out single in the bottom of the ninth inning that clinched Arizona’s 4-3 win over USC in the Pac-12 Tournament championship game on May 25 in Scottsdale, Ariz. Perhaps more impressive than Splaine’s hit itself was that the hardly broke sentence as he was dunked with not one but two Gatorade showers by his teammates during an on-field postgame interview that was nationally televised by ESPN. “It means everything,” Splaine said on azdesertswarm.com. “I grew up an Arizona fan, diehard. Diehard Pac-12 fan. So this is a really big
WOUND-UP Ryan Madsen puts a shot against Los Altos during a pitched water polo battle.
BRINGING THE HEAT AJ Minyard (class of 2024 senior) warms before a regular-season game.
Sports, from page 12
one for Arizona.”
FIN ON WORLD STAGE
Agata Fin, a 2024 LGHS graduate and current Cal Berkeley freshman, was a starting defender for Italy’s national team that advanced to the quarterfinals in the U20 World Lacrosse Women’s Championship Aug. 15-24 in Hong Kong.
A tournament-ending loss to eventual runner-up Canada on Aug. 21 did little to dampen Italy’s impressive breakthrough run, which included a second-place finish in Pool C.
“It was super exciting for us as an organization because we weren’t ranked coming in, and that was the first appearance for Italy in the U20 stage,” Fin said. “It was the furthest any Italian team had ever gotten. So, it was a really big deal.”
THE BEST OF THE REST
In March, three teams from the Los Gatos Junior Basketball (NJB) program won national championships to cap a spectacular winter season.
Within the NJB’s top division, All Net, the Los Gatos fourth- and eighthgrade boys teams captured titles. The eighth-grade boys divisional team also won its respective national tournament championship.
May was a hugely successful month for LGHS sports. Karly Frangieh broke the school record in the girls 50-yard and 100 freestyle in the CCS Swimming Championships, notching automatic All-American qualifying times in the process.
She finished second in both events, clocking the 50 free in 23.40 seconds and the 100 free in 50.63 seconds. Notably, the previous LGHS recordholder in the 50 free was Karly’s older sister, Zoe, who is a standout on the Arizona State women’s water polo team.
The LGHS baseball team won a second straight SCVAL De Anza Division championship, winning the title on the final day of the regular-season with a 7-3 win over Los Altos High. Closer Anthony Andrews pitched 4 innings of scoreless relief and Carter Johnstone went 2-for-3 with a tworun triple.
Meanwhile, the Los Gatos girls 4x400 meter relay team highlighted the Wildcats’ performance in the CCS Track and Field Championships. The team of Vanessa Leathem, Shea Elmore, Madison Kohli and Elise Greenstreet cruised—check that, blazed—to
SPORTS
Sports, from page 15
the finish in a personal-record of 3 minutes, 54.05 seconds, winning by three-plus seconds. Kohli also took third in the open 400 meters in a PR of 55.99 seconds to qualify for State in that event. The boys lacrosse team limped into the CCS playoffs but finished strong, beating Palo Alto 12-10 to win the D-II c hampionship. Jack Baldwin scored f our goals, Luke Godda rd and Zach Gouldrup had three goals apiece and Cullen Wood finished with two scores to help clinch the Wildcats’ first title in program history. Zach Otoupal, the twotime PCAL Gabilan Division Defensive Player of the Year, collected 13 ground balls and added two assists, while goalie Carter Paradice had 11 saves.
In June, the Los Gatos Rowing Club—
led by Director Jaime Velez—continued to flex its muscle as a national powerhouse. In June, they sent a club-record 14 boats and 59 athletes to the National Championships in Sarasota, Fla.
In July and August, the Los Gatos Little League Junior All Star team’s remarkable season came to an end in the NorCal State Tournament. The core nucleus, which had been together since they were 8-years-old, were playing in NorCals for the fourth consecutive season.
They also reached this stage as under-11 All Stars, U12 Majors and U13 Intermediate, accumulating seven banners in the process. Hence, they affectionately became known as the Banner Boys.
In August, Monte Sereno native Nikki Dzurko watched from the stands as her U.S. Artistic Swimming teammates won a silver medal in the Paris Olympic
Games. Even though Dzurko didn’t get to compete in the Olympics, she was instrumental in helping the U.S. team place in February’s World Championships in Doha, Qatar. Dzurko competed in the acrobatic routine, helping the U.S. earn one of two bronze medals in the event—the other came in the free routine—and secure a berth in the Olympic Games.
Meanwhile, history was made in the recently completed fall prep season which saw the debut of the LGHS girls flag football team. The Wildcats went 24-2 overall and 8-1 in the SCVAL, sharing the championship with Milpitas and Santa Clara.
In November, Wildcats’ distance ace Aydon Stefanopoulos nailed a personal-record of 14:51.8 to win his first CCS Cross Country Championship at the venerable 2.95-mile Crystal Springs course in Belmont. Stefanopoulos
passed Piedmont Hill’s Yosef Berhan in the final 400 meters to win by 3.7 seconds in the boys D-II race, establishing the fourth fastest overall time of the day among all five divisions.
That’s 500-plus competitors, for those counting. On the hardwood, the LGHS girls volleyball team—the No. 15 seed in the CIF NorCal State Division I playoffs—stunned No. 2 seed Clovis West in four sets. Game scores were 25-18, 27-25, 22-25, 26-24.
Also in November, the LGHS football team made a stirring run in the CCS D-I playoffs before falling to St. Francis in the championship game, 27-7. To get to the final, the Wildcats had to best two other vaunted West Catholic Athletic League teams—Serra High and Riordan High—and did so in thrilling fashion.
VOLLEYBALLERS CELEBRATE Freshman libero Caylin Thomas and senior Mia Halsey hug after a spectacular play against Palo Alto.
OVER THE MOON Los Gatos girls soccer celebrated their CCS Championship win over Piedmont Hills back in February.
PACK LEADER Aydon Stefanopoulos at the Jackie Henderson Memorial Invitational, in September.
Jonathan Natividad/ Los Gatan
Jonathan Natividad/ Los Gatan
Jonathan Natividad/ Los Gatan
RECORD-SETTER
Hall Of Fame, from page 1
Ad
Fictitious Business Name Statements
File Number: FBN711640. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: ANDERSON MANOR OF PORTUGAL , 473 Valley View Drive, Los Altos, CA 94024. This business is conducted by: A General Partnership, John Robert “Bob” Anderson, 473 Valley View Drive, Los Altos, CA 94024 and Catherine Anderson, 473 Valley View Drive, Los Altos, CA 94024. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 12/01/2024 and 12/03/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ John Robert “Bob” Anderson /s/. (Pub LGN: 12/11, 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #711571
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Naschmarkt Campbell, 384 E. Campbell Ave., Campbell, CA, 95008, MDB21, Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein 07/11/2019. /s/Ismail Duman. President. #4297088. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/02/2024. (pub LG 12/11, 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01/2025)
PUBLIC NOTICES
is being condu cted by a Limited Liability Company. Above entity was formed in the state of Delaware. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein 04/01/2024. /s/Ron Ubaldi. Managing Member. SR# 20240408512. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 11/19/2024. (pub LG 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #711834
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Memo Imports Group Inc., 1441 San Tomas Aquino Rd., San Jose, CA, 95130. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein 12/10/2024. /s/Guillermo Calvillo. President. #6483207. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/10/2024. (pub LG 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08/2025)
for the Chicago Bears and the Carolina Panthers, he was best known for playing with Brett Favre in Minnesota. In 2011, Allen set a single season record by a Viking with 22 sacks and became a member of the NFL’s 100 sack club. He’s tied for the most safeties in a season in history, with two. He’s also tied for most career safeties, with four—alongside Ted Hendricks, Doug English, and Justin Houston. Allen retired from the NFL in 2016.
Allen was first named a finalist for the Hall of Fame in 2021 and has been a finalist five times. This year’s inductees will be announced in February, just prior to the Super Bowl.
Allen was previously named one of the “50 Greatest Vikings” He was inducted to the team's Ring of Honor as its 27th member. If he gets inducted to the Hall of Fame, he will be the 23 rd former Viking to make it in—and the first since Steve Hutchinson, who was picked in 2020.
Allen has the most games with a least a half-sack, at 11. He’s currently tied with Chris Jones, Trey Hendrickson, Nnamdi Madubuike and Shaun Ellis.
Allen is a family man—a Christian with a wife and two daughters. In recent years, he’s excelled at the sport of curling, competing in the World Curling Tour event, as well as the Curl Mesabi Classic. He also played in the 2021 and 2024 Men’s Curling Championships.
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #711425
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: K Express, 1053 E El Camino Real #9, Sunnyvale, CA, 94087, Beef Steak Corporation. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Kwangwuk Kwon. CEO. #C4858556. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 11/22/2024. (pub LG 12/11, 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01/2025)
File Number: FBN711091 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: The Nordic Design , 464 W Campbell Ave, Campbell, Ca 95008. This business is conducted by: An Individual, Jonathan Starrett, 464 W Campbell Ave, Campbell, Ca 95008. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 11/13/2024 and 11/13/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Jonathan Starrett /s/. (Pub LGN: 12/11, 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #711574
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Wesco Dental Laboratory, 621 E. Campbell., #2, Campbell, CA, 95008, Robert A. Chapman, Patricia L. Chapman. This business is being conducted by a Married Couple. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein 10/19/1995. /s/Robert A. Chapman. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/02/2024. (pub LG 12/11, 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #711274
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. Western Trailer Park, 2. Western MHC, 3. Western RV Park, 4. Western Manufactured Housing Community, 2784 Monterey Hwy., San Jose, CA, 95111, Western Manufactured Housing Community, LLC. This business
File Number: FBN711831 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: LOS GATOS LODGE , 50 Saratoga-Los Gatos Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, LOS GATOS LODGE LLC, PO Box 158, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/01/1996 and 12/09/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Fraulein Dominguez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. LOS GATOS LODGE LLC, Article/Reg # 199727510001, Above Entity was Formed in the State of CA. /s/ Keet Nerhan /s/ Managing Member. (Pub LGN: 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08/2025)
File Number: FBN711461 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: MARTINEZ CLEANING SERVICES, 4632 Mia Cr, San Jose, CA 95136. This business is conducted by: An Individual, MONICA HERRERA MARTINEZ, 4632 Mia Cr, San Jose, CA 95136. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 09/16/2023 and 11/25/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Monica Herrera Martinez /s/. (Pub LGN: 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #711899
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Dreamz Art, 710 Lakeway Drive, Suite 200, Sunnyvale, CA, 94085, Muhammad Iqbal. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein 12/11/2024. /s/Muhammad Iqbal. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/11/2024. (pub LG 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #711929
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. KPK, 2. KP Arch, 3. KPK Arch, 4. KPARCH, 5. KK, 6. KKARCH, 7. Karissa Kashyap Architecture + Design, 8. Kashyap Architecture + Design, 9. Kashyap Architecture, 10. Karissa Kashyap Architects, 844 Strickbroth Drive, Milpitas, CA, 95035, Karissa Kashyap Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein 04/16/2024. /s/Karissa Kashyap. Owner. #6205518. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/12/2024. (pub LG 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08/2025)
legals@losgatan.com
File Number: FBN711649. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: Chez Philippe of Los Gatos, 34 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95030. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, La Cave of Los Gatos, LLC, 34 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95030. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 1/8/22 and 12/04/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. La Cave of Los Gatos, LLC, Article/Reg # 202100710342, Above Entity was Formed in the State of CA. /s/ Deena Elkassed /s/ Co-Owner. (Pub LGN: 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #711861
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Divine Footsteps, 6830 Via Del Oro, Suite 230, San Jose, CA, 95119, Michele Weber. This business is being conducted by a Individual. Registrant has not begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/ MIchele Weber. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/10/2024. (pub LG 12/18, 12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08/2025)
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME #711550
The following person(s) / registrant(s) has / have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s): Van Hoa Lam, 979 Story RD Unit 7087, San Jose, CA, 95122, Nhu Thuan Lam, Quoc Anh Nguyen. Filed in the Santa Clara County on 10/18/2016. under file No. 622566. This businçess was conducted by: An Co Partners. Filed on 11/27/2024. /s/Suganthi Srinivasan. (pub dates: (12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08, 01/15/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #712043
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Herbal Hollow Co, 5230 Rooster Dr., San Jose, CA, 95136, Kira Marie Boyer. This business is being conducted by a Individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Kira M Boyer. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/17/2024. (pub LG 12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08, 01/15/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #712060
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Capstone Business Solutions, 602 Altino Blvd., San Jose, CA, 95136, Hyun Joon Park. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Hyun Joon Park. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/18/2024. (pub LG 12/25/2024, 01/01, 01/08, 01/15/2025)
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME #712190
The following person(s) / registrant(s) has / have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s): 1. Pontag LLC, 2. Pontag, 3. Hurricane 3D Printing, 171 Branham Lane STE 10-641, San Jose, CA, 95136. Filed in the Santa Clara County on 11/29/20236. under file No. 700873. This business was conducted by: A Limited Liability Company. Filed on 12/23/2024. /s/Tung Hsieh. (pub dates: (01/01, 01/08, 01/15, 01/22/2025)
SUPERB Jared Allen played in Super Bowl 50 with the Carolina Panthers.
