Commissioner urges more prevention for Los Gatos’ hills
Faizi Samadani, Contributor
By now, people across the country—and beyond America’s borders—have seen visuals of the Pacific Palisades and Eaton fires in Southern California from the safety of their homes, on TV and via the internet.
As the world watches, local firefighters have been in the thick of it.
“Firefighters from across California, and from other states, are doing what they can to put out this fire,” said Cal Fire SCU Battalion Chief Mario Rivera when asked about the response from Los Gatos and Santa Clara County. “The wind is what is driving the fire to move in other directions.”
At press time, 24 people had died in the Los Angeles area wildfires.
Erica Ray, a Santa Clara County Fire Department spokesperson, said the agency had deployed 17 people to the Palisades and Eaton fires—three engine companies with four members each.
“The others are single
THE LEX SOLD, NEW OWNER TO KEEP THE NAME, CHEF, AMBIANCE
Current proprietor says inflation played into exit decision
Laura Ness, Contributor
The Lexington House is changing hands.
Co-founder Stephen Shelton told the Los Gatan he’s already in escrow, and is ecstatic that the new owner plans to retain the name, the menu and its star chef, Ethan Carreon.
“It’s a great scenario,” Shelton said.
Who’s taking over? Marco Spagnuola, a former manager at Vin Santo in Willow Glen who owns Bistrot Luce in Rome.
Shelton has shaken up the local cocktail scene for years with his avant garde program at
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CASES AGAINST WOMAN ACCUSED OF THROWING PARTIES FOR TEENS PROCEED
Shannon O’Connor awarded legal fees in her divorce battle
Drew Penner, Editor
The Los Gatos woman who is accused of holding alcohol-fueled parties for teens remained in jail over the holidays, as a variety of cases against her go unresolved.
And in recent filings in the divorce case brought by her husband, Robert Amaral, the former chief revenue officer for Palo Alto-based software company Opsera, Inc., O’Conner seemed wistful for her days on the outside.
“Robert Amaral and I lived in a multimillion dollar home in Saratoga and then moved to an even nicer home in Los Gatos on a 3.5 acre property,” she wrote in bold, flowing handwriting. “We drove luxury vechicles (sic) and went on extravagant vacations several times a year. I shopped on a regular basis and had plastic surgery hair and nails done every few weeks. I never went without anything.”
In this Aug. 27 declaration, she said she’d been getting money from her “relatives” to cover $2,500 of the more than $5,000 in fees she’d racked up in that case.
O’Connor described her health as “Good, but incarcerated,” adding she had “Poor” marketable skills.
She asked Amaral for $45,000.
“I am incarcerated and I am in need of incidental expenses in my incarceration,” she said, requesting money for multiple civil cases.
“I will require vocational rehabilitation upon re-entering the work place,” she wrote. “I supported Robert domestically while he focused on his career…I am currently incarcerated. When I am released, I will need support to enable me to live at the marital standard of living I described herein.”
Meanwhile, she said, Amaral has a “3.5 million dollar Estate in Austin, Texas on a renovated golf course. Investments / stocks, 401k, Luxury cars, all my jewelry, custom furniture all throughout the estate.”
After 12 years and nine months, Amaral filed for divorce on Oct. 9, 2021, in the wake of an investigation into how their Los Gatos home had figured into parties police say put the life of local teenagers in danger and facilitated unwanted sexual situations.
He reported, though his lawyer, the “full nature and extent” of his “separate property assets and debts are not pres-
alleged conduct, as I work in sales and my employment at the time required frequent out-of-state travel. I have been cleared of any wrongdoing, although my life is forever impacted by Respondent’s alleged actions.”
He said he was fired from his job because of O’Connor.
“Respondent is seeking an award of attorney’s fees and costs in order to retain new criminal defense counsel,” he said. “I should not be required to contribute toward Respondent’s criminal defense counsel’s fees and costs.”
While Amaral is known for leading multiple start-ups to IPO, prosecutors said O’Connor tried to launch a drug dealing operation from behind bars with a woman she was having a sexual relationship with.
He says $250,000-300,000 from the sale of their Los Gatos home already went to O’Connor’s criminal defense.
In a Nov. 5 order, Judge Cindy Hendrickson awarded O’Connor $15,000 in attorney’s fees and $5,000 in expert fees, to be held in trust and used when called for—with any remaining balance to be returned to Amaral.
ently known…At a minimum, Petitioner claims as his sole and separate property any and all assets acquired prior to marriage or after separation, as well as any and all assets acquired during marriage by inheritance, gift or devise.”
In court papers, Amaral revealed he made just under $20,000 in gross salary a month, as well as $17,500 in average monthly commissions or bonuses.
He said he’d already paid his attorney $7,299.74 and still owed about $2,500.
O’Connor says Amaral hasn’t been paying child support. Amaral reported paying Elmwood Correctional Facility $1,000 on an ongoing basis to cover his wife’s food and other necessities.
“Our marriage came to an abrupt end when Respondent was arrested in Idaho, extradited back to California, and incarcerated without bail in Santa Clara County on or around October 9, 2021,” Amaral said in a filing from last February. “Respondent was charged with 20 felony and 43 misdemeanor crimes and has been incarcerated at all times since October 9, 2021. The charges stem from allegations that Respondent threw sex parties for underage children and supplied them with alcohol. I was completely unaware of Respondent’s
The minute order from the Sept. 17 hearing where the matter was discussed, states future requests for fees will require detailed billing statements.
“The Court finds that the respondent has shown a clear need for attorneys fees,” it reads. “The Court finds that there is a disparity in income, the petitioner has the ability to pay respondent’s fees, and that the attorney’s fees requested are reasonable.”
Amaral is seeking full custody of their son, Robert William Amaral, who is now 17.
Meanwhile, the judge in O’Connor’s criminal case started to lay out the parameters for that felony trial.
O’Connor is charged with multiple counts of willful cruelty to a child and sexual penetration of a victim (though the DA’s Office hasn’t claimed she sexually abused any of the minors directly).
At a Dec. 4 hearing, the Court set April 30 at the date witness lists must be ready and sent the next hearing for May 5 in Department 24.
And O’Connor still faces accusations of defamation in civil court.
O’Connor has also been battling her former husband Darrell Bruga in family court and has a trial scheduled for April 17 in that case.
COURTHOUSE The Family Justice Center in San Jose, pictured yesterday afternoon.
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NORCAL FIREFIGHTERS HELP TO QUELL FLAMES IN SOCAL
Wildfire, from page 1
“There are so many ways for a spark to start a fire,” Rivera said. “And if you do see anything, just to call 911 to send us out to investigate.”
For Los Gatos locals, the name Rob Stump might ring a bell. Stump ran for Council in 2022, and although he didn’t win, his devotion to public safety has remained. He was recently appointed to Planning Commission. And last week, he urged the body to take up fire prevention guidelines for the hillside areas.
“My number one priority is public safety, and right on top of the list is fire prevention,” he said in an interview. “The biggest economic threat to the town of Los Gatos is wildfire.”
He says he’s concerned for the around 3,000 Los Gatos homes in the wildland-urban interface (WUI).
“This is where the wild land meets the community,” he said. “I am someone steeped in wildfire preparation and prevention. Some people call me an expert in the town of Los Gatos. But I don’t place that mantle (on) myself. I was just appointed to the Los Gatos planning commission on Jan. 8. It's a four-year term. I'm also a hillside resident, so this hits close to home in more than one way.”
Having emergency communication systems in place is a big part of being ready for a wildfire, according to Stump.
“We have 31 miles in the public roadway through the WUI, and it needs to be maintained,” he said. “A significant percentage of fires start along roadways. I would just say that everybody needs to remain vigilant. Everybody needs to maintain the vegetation on their property. This is truly a community effort. This isn't something that the government will do alone. And it takes everybody's involvement.”
resource overhead assignments with the exception of one who is on one of the strike teams as a strike team leader trainee,” she said.
The strike teams are XSC 2301A (Palisades) and XSC 2302A (Eaton).
Engines 73 and 79 out of Saratoga and West Valley fire stations joined Strike Team XSC 2302A Jan. 8, alongside resources from San Jose, Mountain View and Sunnyvale departments, according to a post on Twitter. Engine 77 out of SCCFD’s Monta Vista station in Cupertino joined Strike Team XSC 2301A a little before that, with resources from Gilroy, Palo Alto, Sunnyvale and Milpitas.
Fire officials say when a major wind storm is on the horizon, they pre-position people in the areas that could be
most affected. And this year, Southern California hasn’t received much rain, so it was an area of concern.
Rivera said Engine 1663, a Type 3 engine, was dispatched from Alma Fire Station in Redwood Estates.
“It was a crew of three, sent down on Tuesday,” he said, late last week. “A strike team was sent down with Santa Cruz.” Strike Team 9170C includes a Cal Fire CZU Battalion Chief, three Cal Fire CZU fire engines, and two Cal Fire SCU engines. Cal Fire CZU reported, in a Twitter post, those firefighters had a tough assignment as they faced off against unrelenting winds.
Rivera said Type 3 engines are fourwheel-drive vehicles that can traverse difficult landscapes.
“Type 1 is for the city,” he said. “Type 3 is more for tough terrain.”
While Type 1 trucks carry 750 gallons of water, a Type 3 carries 500 gallons in its bladder, Rivera explained.
“These Type 3's are made for small roads, and they have to make steep climbs,” he said. “They need to do a lot of things that a Type 1 cannot do… Type 2 is a combination of the two.”
Rivera said it was unclear when the local firefighters would be able to return.
“It’s wind driven fire,” he said, adding they’re being nourished by the Cal Fire mobile kitchens. “Each shift is a minimum of 24 hours.”
Authorities have been urging residents here to remain vigilant when it comes to fire prevention.
LOCAL CREW Strike Team 9170C pictured in a Jan. 8 social media post. The group includes a Cal Fire CZU Battalion Chief, three Cal Fire CZU fire engines, and two Cal Fire SCU engines. They described a tough firefight as they faced off against unrelenting winds.
DISPATCHED Watsonville Fire Department was one of the area agencies that contributed resources to battle fires in Southern California.
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LEXINGTON HOUSE OWNER SAYS RISING PRICES HELPED PROMPT DECISION TO SELL
Lexington, from page 1
Lexington House, as well as at Black Sheep. Prior to that he dished up hospitality at The Table in Willow Glen.
“Marco recognizes what works about this concept and intends to preserve it,” he said. “The fact that he’s keeping the name and the chef is a great indicator that this concept resonates. It has longevity.”
Shelton says he’s loved his decades in the industry.
“It’s been my honor and privilege to be a part of this business, which I consider a noble profession,” he said. “But having to charge more, and more, for every item is really wearing on me.”
Seeing a more-than $30 pizza at Oak & Rye recently drove the current
reality home for him, he said.
“Not that it isn’t worth it, really, but the fact that we are up to $30 for a pizza just made me rethink where I am in my career,” he said. “I don’t want to have to be that guy that is constantly raising prices, but that is today’s reality.”
This past year has been a real trial—even as it represented ten years in business for The Lex.
“For some reason, 2024 was a big bummer for so many people,” Shelton said. “Personally, it was a game changer. My long-term partner and I split up, which was huge. And the whole culinary scene kept getting tougher. I realized that I didn’t want to totally use up my body running a restaurant when
there are other things I’d still like to do.”
For example, he says, he’d like to get back to writing about cocktails, and perhaps do some restaurant consulting.
Shelton says he’s happy to grab the shaker and go back behind the bar—and just bring a good cocktail to someone who needs a great escape.
He says that, for now, he’s working at Ethel’s Fancy in Palo Alto a few nights a week to help their bar program.
“The new GM there said he needed some direction and wants to tune the cocktail program,” he said. “Plus it’s close to home, now that I’ve moved to Burlingame.”
Shelton adds he loves being closer to San Francisco, a place that’s always been a source of inspiration for him.
He’ll continue to work at The Lexington House two nights a week— Tuesdays and Wednesdays—during the transition period to new ownership. He wants everyone to know that what makes the Lexington House special will continue.
“The staff here loves what they do, and they all want to keep on doing it,” he said. “The new owner might make a few tweaks, but he wants to keep the vibe going.”
After the transition, says Shelton, it’s off to Hawaii to put his toes in the sand for a few days, as he contemplates what the rest of his life will hold.
“I have a degree in city planning,” he said. “Might be a good time to put that to use.
STAR CHEF Ethan Carreon wipes a surface during service this week at the Lexington House.
DINAH’S EVENT LOG: MID-JANUARY 2025
Baby, it’s cold outside, but there’s plenty to do
Dinah Cotton, Contributor
January is so bright and sunny, and then the sun sets. Brrr!
It is still early wintertime. The layering look that we Californians are known for is not just a fashion statement. We want to keep warm. This sartorial proclivity allows us to stay active through all seasons—though somewhat disheveled.
Whether too little or too many layers, there’s always that West Coast smile. The first day of spring is March 20. It seems so far off. Our vegetation is confused. We were all ready for what started out as a wet winter.
Mother Nature fooled us. But we are Los Gatans; we can adapt and prepare for what might be a wet spring. Keep that umbrella handy.
OUT & ABOUT
Last week’s New Year’s Gala, held at the recreation center, was a chance for 55+ members to ring in 2025 with live music and tasty bites.
Los Gatos Saratoga Recreation staff with 55+ Program members participated in a belated New Year’s last Friday. It featured live music and dancing. The countdown to midnight was held at 9 o’clock. And yes, they knew it was held after the official New Year’s Eve. Another year to celebrate living in Los Gatos.
We celebrate when we want to.
55+ SOCIAL DANCE Jan. 17, 6-8pm. No partner needed. All levels welcomed. Try dancing reels and jigs. $5 members, $15 public.
MLK JR. DAY Jan. 20 is a federal holiday. Schools and nonessential government offices (DMV, libraries, Town offices, courthouses) will be closed. This year marks 25 years of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.
URINETOWN The musical comes to Saratoga Civic Theatre. 13777 Fruitvale Ave., Saratoga. Jan. 25-Feb. 15. A Broadway hit and Tony Award-winning satirical musical. Presented by South Bay Musical Theatre. Tickets: southbaymt.com
St. MARY’S OPEN HOUSE Learn more about this TK-8 school which
la Montalvo. Feb. 6, 7:30pm tickets. $73-$78. An evening of superb slack key guitar work, exploring the beauty of Hawaiian music. A distinct sound with dancing by Moanalani Beamer.
BRUBECK BROS. QUARTET Feb. 7, 7:30pm, Montalvo Arts Center Carriage House. Parking $15, premier ticket $68, reserved $62.
LOS GATOS CREEK PARK CLEAN UP Old Forbes Mill lower parking lot, 55 Church St. Feb. 8, 11:30am. Second Saturday of each month. LG Creek Trail cleanup. Los Gatos High School Key Club, LG Kiwanis Club. Bags and gloves are provided. Coffee and pastries are offered. lgkiwanis.org
POLICE OFFICERS’ BALL Testarossa Winery, 300 College Ave., March 8, 6:30pm. Plan for a glamorous evening of culinary excellence and fine wines. Black tie optional, seated gourmet dinner supporting the Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department. Officer sponsorships available. lgmspolicefoundation.org
HAPPY DRAGON THRIFT Benefiting Pacific Clinics, a non-profit organization, 245 W. Main St. Now open Sun. 1-4pm, Sat.-Mon. 10am-1pm, Tues.-Fri. 10am-4pm. Donations accepted Tue.-Thurs. and Sat. 10am-noon. happydragonthriftshop.org
has a 1:10 teacher-student ratio. 30 Lyndon Ave.
LUNAR NEW YEAR Starts Jan. 29. The Year of the Wood Snake lasts until Feb. 16, 2026.
DOWNSIZING SEMINAR 208 E. Main St., Jan. 30, offered by the 55+ Program. 10-11:00am. How to begin, step-by-step playbook. Offered by Nelly Cotto and Brian Schwatka.
SILICON VALLEY PIZZA WEEK is coming to Los Gatos on Jan 31 and will be a 10-day celebration of America’s favorite food. Who makes the best pizza in Los Gatos? Do you like thick or thin crusts?
MONDAY MORNING MONTHLY MOVIE (MMMM) CineLux Los Gatos Theatre, 43 N Santa Cruz, Feb. 3, 9:45am. $10 includes: movie, coffee and a pastry. The primary purpose of MMMM is to provide community socialization for older adults—any profits go to LG Thrives, which supports future events and planning for our new community center planning. Tickets: losgatosthrives.org
KEOLA BEAMER & JEFF PETERSON at the Carriage House, Vil-
STRING ART Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Co. is showing geometric fiber work by John Eichinger through May. The exhibit features stop-youin-your-tracks-amazing geometric mandalas that are mesmerizing and hypnotic. stringart.com
This month, don’t forget that extra jacket or sweater. You may want to consider gloves and a hat, too. It’s chilly. Our bright sunny days are very comfortable without jackets, from about noon to 1pm. When that sun takes the evening dip and it becomes chilly, keep your ski parka at the ready.
Please note, since September 2024 tuition fees for all residents living within West Valley-Mission Community College District have been waived.
“This bill comes during a renaissance of opportunity for our district, underscoring commitment to inclusivity and educational enlightenment. It is a testament to our belief that unrestricted access to education is a fundamental right, pivotal in unlocking the full potential within our community,” said Chancellor Bradley Davis. Could it be time to enroll in a fun course?
GEOMETRIC MANDALAS The Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Co. is showing geometric fiber work by John Eichinger through May.
Courtesy of John Eichinger
SPORTS
WILDCATS AIM FOR UPPER-TIER FINISH IN TOUGH DE ANZA DIVISION
LGHS looks to continue momentum on the pitch
Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor
When Joel Fumia became the Los Gatos High School boys soccer coach in the summer before the start of the 2022-2023 season, his goal was to get the Wildcats back into the Santa Clara Valley Athletic League’s De Anza Division.
Mission accomplished.
The Wildcats got promoted into the SCVAL’s top division after winning the lower El Camino Division championship last year.
“The goal was always to get back to the ‘A’ league,” Fumia said. “It’s prob-
ably where we should be, where the school should be.”
Despite having a solid group, Fumia knows the Wildcats will have their hands full in the ultra-competitive De Anza, which is headlined by NorCal powerhouse Mountain View along with Palo Alto and Los Altos, a pair of perennial Central Coast Section heavyweights.
“I thought our ‘B’ league (El Camino) last year was still good competitively, but this one top to bottom is more competitive and harder,” Fumia said. “You’re rarely going to see games that are decided by more than one or two goals. Our boys know it’s going to be tough in every single outing.” How tough? Los Gatos suffered
a 3-0 defeat to Los Altos on Jan. 10, dropping its league record to 1-1-1.
“I always tell the guys the goal is to win a league championship, but this is such a tough league,” Fumia said. “If we can just chip away, stay in the mix and stay in the top half of the league, I think we can get in (the CCS playoffs).”
Senior goalkeeper Leon Sarashki has been downright sensational, picking up right where he left off from last season. In last year’s CCS semifinal playoff match against Menlo School, Sarashki made two brilliant saves during the penalty kick shootout that allowed the Wildcats to advance to the Division II championship contest.
“Leon is a big-time keeper and really good,” Fumia said. “I think he’s a
top keeper in the area. He’s kept us in games and helped us win games by making big saves. He’s been awesome.”
Fumia has been pleased with seniors Will Morley and Jovian Hayden, who play the critical center back position.
“They’ve been very good,” Fumia said. “They’re two guys who didn’t play a whole lot last year because they had seniors in front of them. But they bring experience and we’ll be counting on them.”
Junior Max Lees and senior Keegan Mctighe are the team’s leading goal scorers and have dynamic playmaking ability.
“Max has picked up where he left off from last year and I expect Keegan to have a good year as well scoring goals,” Fumia said.
The Wildcats’ 3-2 win over Leigh in the season-opener has been the team’s highlight thus far this season. They trailed the Longhorns 2-0 before Lees went off for three goals in the second half, with Pele Arroyo assisting on two of them.
Senior Will Enneking, a defensive center midfielder, and senior Omer Rabin, a right center back, have been solid at their positions, respectively. Another senior, James Niemeyer, plays a key role at defender and in the midfield.
Los Gatos has dealt with some key injuries this season. Arroyo, an attacking midfielder, got hurt in the Leigh game, putting him out for the next five matches. But the biggest setback occurred before the season started when Shlok Shrivastava suffered a torn ACL during a club tournament last May.
“Shlok is probably out for the year,” Fumia said. “He was one of our best— if not our best—player, so that was a huge bummer. But overall, the guys have stepped up and it’s been good to see. They’ve exceeded my expectations based on the factors that we lost a lot of talent, your best player tears his ACL and there's a lot of unknowns. But they battled, and having a goalkeeper like Leon helps a lot. We’re off to a good start, but there’s a lot of work ahead.”
GOOD TIMES The Los Gatos High School boys soccer team celebrates a goal during its 3-1 win over Santa Clara High School in a SCVAL De Anza Division match on Jan. 8.
SPORTS
WILDCATS BEAT MUSTANGS 5-3
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On Monday night at the San Jose Tech CU Arena, Los Gatos High School’s hockey team took down the Pioneer Mustangs 5-3.
The Wildcats drew first blood, as Devin De La Rosa put one into the back of the next in the opening period.
During the regular season game in the co-ed Sharks High School Hockey League, LGHS went up 2-0, then gave up three unanswered goals.
Trailing by a point, in the third period it was the Wildcats’ turn to go on a three-goal run.
With this finish, Los Gatos clinched a playoff berth and dashed Pioneer’s postseason hopes.
HUDDLE Los Gatos High players gather by the bench before a faceoff.
OPENING SALVO Wildcat Devin De La Rosa scored the first goal of the game.
Drew Penner and Jonathan Natividad
THE BRUBECK BROTHERS QUARTET TO TEACH MASTER-CLASS
HILLSIDE JAZZ Students get to sit in and learn from professional jazz greats, many who also
and at fall Gala (through silent and live auctions) go directly to support these programs. None
Youth to sit in with musical luminaries to learn the jazz craft
Dinah Cotton, Contributor
Imagine being a middle or high school-aged music student who gets to play alongside jazz greats.
That will be more than a dream for several local students, thanks to an upcoming workshop organized by Los Gatos Music & Arts (LGM&A), which has produced Jazz on the Plazz for more than two decades.
The nonprofit’s been holding jazz master-classes, by invitation, for the youth of the South Bay for years now. For a young musician, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime: to jam with legendary professional jazz artists.
Recently, I spoke with LGM&A board member Jonathan Knowles about it
“Yes, I know we are the best thing in
town in the summer,” he said. “We love presenting Jazz in the Plazz. However, this venue allows us to fulfill the goal of LGM&A’s mission. Our mission is to take kids on their musical journey and allow them to play with professional jazz musicians.
“We host 50-100 young musicians each year in a lecture-lab, as well as hands-on,” Knowles said. “The board consists of three people: Teri Hope, the founder, with board members Ginger Taylor McDonald and myself. We are all unpaid. We take great pride (in) offering lectures and lab workshops…and we hope this will help students’ have a more meaningful musical journey.”
LGM&A ORGANIZATION
Knowles noted this will be the 23rd year of offering music and arts instruction.
“The attendees get to engage onstage and interface with professional jazz musicians,” he said. These workshops are held around
the South Bay, sometimes in private homes, sometimes in rented venues. The organization’s annual Gala—its major fundraiser—will be held in the fall.
THE BRUBECK LEGACY
Dave Brubeck’s mother was a pianist who occasionally taught music lessons, yet her son Dave could not read music.
He graduated from the University of the Pacific, promising to never teach music.
However, reading music isn’t required to play jazz. And as a jazz artist, he excelled at improvising. His 5/4 time signature was an unusual one. It brought a different interpretation to this medium.
His well-known song “Take Five” from the album Time Out was the first jazz album to sell over a million copies.
“Take Five” was being played on non jazz radio stations around the world, and in November 1954, Bru -
beck made the cover of Time magazine. He performed right up until his death at almost 92.
BRUBECK BOYS + 2
After Brubeck’s death in 2012, his four sons—Darius, Dan, Chris and Matt—have continued on as the Brubeck Brothers Quartet, with Chris leading the workshops, Dan Brubeck Mike Demicco and Chuck Lamb. While in town, they’ll also offer workshops for selected young South Bay musicians. That will happen in early February.
Los Gatos Music & Arts allows students to sit in with these jazz greats, and they do this very efficiently.
Chris (bass / trombone / composer) and Dan (drums) have been making music together practically all their lives. They cut their first record together in 1966. They’ve subsequently played a variety of styles in a number of different groups—as well as with their father. With Dan and Chris as the foundation, guitarist Mike DeMic-
perform at Jazz in the Plazz. The funds raised by LGM&A during the summer series
of the three board members take a salary.
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co and pianist Chuck Lamb complete this dynamic quartet.
Although the Quartet’s style is known as “straight-ahead” jazz, their concerts reveal their ability to explore and play odd time signatures while integrating the influences of funk, blues and world music. The group’s creativity, technique, and improvisation can be heard in their uncompromising music, which reflects their dedication to melody, rhythm, culture—and the spontaneous spirit of jazz. And they enjoy sharing their vast knowledge with young music students.
AT THE CARRIAGE HOUSE
The Brubeck Brothers Quartet will be performing at the Carriage House at Villa Montalvo, on Friday, Feb. 7, for one night only. It’s reportedly nearly sold out. The following day, the quartet will be teaching their master class.
Herbie Hancock says, “Jazz is the lifeblood of America, yet it is played all around the world with regional influences. Jazz in India, sounds like jazz with the Indian cultural influences coming through.” And when professional jazz musicians can pass this onto eager young students, this American genre thrives. The students are recommended by music teachers and have mastery of their instrument. What a treat—playing jazz with professional jazz musicians. A definite highlight in any young musician's educational journey.
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TIME CHANGES American abstract artist Sam Francis' work graces the cover of the 1964 album "Time Changes.
GUEST VIEW NAVIGATING THE SOCIAL LANDSCAPE
Lessons I learned from Benjamin Franklin for Los Gatos
Jeffrey P. Blum, Contributor
Have you ever wondered how prominent figures like Benjamin Franklin achieved remarkable success? One key factor in his rise as a writer, publisher and politician was his mastery of “social intelligence.” What follows is my analysis of how Franklin’s lessons might apply to our dear town of Los Gatos.
Essentially, social intelligence is about navigating social interactions with awareness, empathy and a deep understanding of others’ perspectives. This is a skillset particularly valuable in Los Gatos, since we are a community deeply invested in civic engagement and community well-being.
One of Benjamin Franklin’s early lessons in navigating social interactions came at a significant cost. As a
teenager, he wrote satirical essays under the pseudonym Silence Dogood for his brother’s newspaper. When his brother discovered the deception, it caused a rift between them. This experience underscored the importance of honesty and transparency in building trust.
Later, Franklin faced a challenging situation where his employer, feigning kindness, subtly encouraged him to train new hires while secretly planning to replace him. This experience honed Franklin’s ability to read between the lines, recognize underlying motives and navigate potential pitfalls.
When Franklin entered politics, he had by then further enhanced his social intelligence. Thus, when he encountered another local politician who out of jealousy, had developed a dislike of Franklin, he knew what to do. Learning that this potential nemesis was a lover of rare books, Franklin flattered him by requesting the opportunity to borrow and review one of the
Perhaps the most striking example of Franklin’s social intelligence is evident in his time as ambassador to France. To secure crucial French support for the American Revolution, he immersed himself in French culture, mastered the language and cultivated relationships with influential figures. While some might view his approach as strategic, and although he generated tremendous antagonism and a substantial number of negative reactions at home, it ultimately proved successful, demonstrating his understanding of human nature and his ability to adapt to different social contexts. So, what did I learn from the master Benjamin Franklin about how we can become more socially intelligent? Be honest and open with others. Pay close attention to how people interact within our community. Truly listen to others’ perspectives, even when they differ from your own. Understand your own biases and how they might influence your interactions. Build strong connections within our community and cultivate a positive reputation as engaged and responsible citizens.
politician’s rarest books, promising to return it after carefully reviewing it.
The potential nemesis was delighted by Franklin’s attention, and agreed to let Franklin borrow the book. After a few days, Franklin fulfilled his promise, returning the book in the same excellent condition that he’d first received it in. This led to Franklin and this other politician becoming lifelong friends and political colleagues.
By appealing to the interest of his political opponent, he disarmed a potential nemesis and built a bridge of connection. This highlights the importance of understanding individual motivations and leveraging them to build relationships.
Franklin not only borrowed the rare book but also returned it in pristine condition, demonstrating his respect for the other politician’s prized possession. This act of reciprocity fostered trust and laid the foundation for a lasting friendship.
Whether we’re discussing development plans, traffic concerns or the future of our schools, considering all perspectives is crucial. It’s about truly listening to others, recognizing their unique backgrounds and experiences, and seeking common ground to find solutions that work for everyone.
Getting involved in local organizations like the Rotary Club, volunteering for community service projects and simply engaging in respectful dialogue with our neighbors—these are the building blocks of a strong community.
Assuming I learned Franklin’s lessons correctly by concluding these principles are appropriate ones for us to follow, then in applying them we can navigate the complexities of community life with greater effectiveness, build stronger relationships and work together to create an even more vibrant and thriving Los Gatos.
If on the other hand, I really mislearned what the stories about Franklin’s life teach us, I suppose I can nevertheless still write in an underground kind of way, just as he did in writing letters to his brother’s paper under the pseudonym Silence Dogood.
FRANKLINOMIX Our columnist says he now has a better understanding of the lessons to be learned from Ben Franklin.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Produce army seeks recruits
We are FruitShare.org, an organization founded and run by high school students, dedicated to reducing fruit waste and combating food insecurity in our community. Our mission is to collect and pick surplus fruit from homeowners' backyards and donate it to local charities.
Since our founding in April 2024, we’ve built a team of volunteers who have already collected and donated over 1,300 pounds of fresh fruit to families in need.
One of the unique aspects of
our initiative is its accessibility. Homeowners can easily request a fruit picking through our website, and our team takes care of everything—from picking the fruit to ensuring it reaches organizations such as West Valley Community Services or Martha’s Kitchen.
We hope to inspire more neighbors to participate in our mission, whether by donating their extra fruit or starting similar efforts in their own communities.
Aditya
Jha and Arav Bansal Co-founders, FruitShare.org
Reader reacts to The Lex owner selling business
Responding to “The Lexington House is getting a new owner, but is keeping its name + vibe” article posted on LosGatan.com
It’s very sad to see Stephen go, we will miss him.
Picking up on something reported in this article, I would love the Los Gatan to figure out how you can put a $30 pizza on your menu and still ask the customers
to provide a 20% tip to pay the staff. Someone is making money somewhere. Maybe not the staff?
In any case, I can’t add up the ingredients at that scale to $30, including a good margin.
Marc —LosGatan.com comment
*Letters are edited for length and clarity
AULD LANG SYNE Last Friday, 55+ Program members participated in a belated New Year’s celebration. It featured live music and dancing. The countdown to midnight was held at 9 o’clock.
PUBLIC NOTICES
Fictitious Business Name Statements
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 business 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)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #712268
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Eternal Visuals, 2775 Lantz Avenue, San Jose, CA, 95124, David Garrett Sanders. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant has not begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/David Garrett Sanders. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/26/2024. (pub LG 01/08, 01/15, 01/22, 01/29/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #712281
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: QT With J And C, 2988 Grassina St #320, San Jose, CA, 95136, Charisse Landicho, Julia Arndt. This business is being conducted by a General Partnership. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein 10/01/2023. /s/Julia Arndt. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/27/2024. (pub LG 01/08, 01/15, 01/22, 01/29/2025)
File Number: FBN712094. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: F1 Collision , 2981 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA 95051. County: Santa Clara. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company. Auto Shield Group, LLC, Article/Reg # 201824810581 California, 860 Civic Dr, Santa Clara, CA 95050. The registrant commenced to transact
business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A and 12/19/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Laura Luna, Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, 1st Floor, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Moises A Rodriguez; Managing Member. Auto Shield Group, LLC. (Pub LGN 1/10, 1/17, 1/24, 1/31)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #712270
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Promise Acres, 2950 Leavesley Rd., Gilroy, CA, 95020, Mengzhi Pang, Pengfei Wang. This business is being conducted by a Married Couple. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein 06/16/2024. /s/Mengzhi Pang. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/26/2024. (pub LG 01/08, 01/15, 01/22, 01/29/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #711996
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Journey Within Coaching, 559 Cypress Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA., 94085, Shellie Lynn Benavidez. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/ Shellie Lynn Benavidez. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/16/2024. (pub LG 01/08, 01/15, 01/22, 01/29/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #712446
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Bridging To French Translations, 1742 Silverwood Drive, San Jose, CA, 95124, Virginie Jeanne Carle. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant has not begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Virginie Jeanne Carle. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/03/2025. (pub LG 01/08, 01/15, 01/22, 01/29/2025)
File Number: FBN712550. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: C27 West Sacramento, 14830 Los Gatos Blvd. Ste. 201, Los Gatos, CA 95032. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, Cilker Sacramento LLC, 14830 Los Gatos Blvd. Ste. 201, Los Gatos, CA 95032. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 10/29/2024 and 01/08/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. CILKER SACRAMENTO LLC, Article/Reg # 202464411451, Above Entity was Formed in the State of CA. /s/ Keyston Smith /s/ President & CEO. (Pub LGN: 01/15, 01/22, 01/29, 02/05/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #711544
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Le Boulanger, 4896 San Felipe Rd., San Jose, CA, 95124, Jeremy Ottoveggio, Britney Ottoveggio. This business is being conducted by a Married Couple. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Jeremy Ottoveggio. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 11/27/2024. (pub LG 01/15, 01/22, 01/29, 02/05/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #712586
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Le Bubble, 820 Willow St Suite 100, San Jose, CA, 95125, Steamy Bean Cafe LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein 11/04/2024. /s/Jessica Yarid Huerta Nunez. Owner. #202464417766. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/09/2025. (pub LG 01/15, 01/22, 01/29, 02/05/2025)
