Los Gatan June 19 2024

FIRST LADY VISITED LG FRIDAY FOR FUNDRAISER

Jill Biden speaks to educators, calls Trump threat to democracy

Staff Report

First lady Jill Biden made a pit stop in Los Gatos last week, speaking at a fundraiser hosted by Shannon Hunt-Scott, the wife of Microsoft Chief Technology Officer Kevin Scott.

It was part of a three-day burst of campaigning to boost the president’s reelection chances, as rival Donald Trump makes fundraising inroads after becoming a felon.

According to a White House pool report, the first lady spoke about the time Joe asked her to marry him for the fifth time (which she said yes to), and what it was like when they found out he’d been elected president four years ago.

She also remarked how during “the highest peaks and deepest valleys of our lives,” and “through our painful losses and our triumphant victories, Joe has always been strong and steady,” the readout stated.

The first lady characterized Trump as someone who only cares about himself and is

Jill Biden, 4

ONWARDS Nolan Koch, who recently committed to furthering his athletic and academic career at Lawrence University, in Wisconsin, takes a look at his SCVAL De Anza Division 1 basketball championship ring. Turn to P8 to see where other local athletes are headed.

BRUSH FIRE VS. PREPARED NEIGHBORHOOD

Resident says flames sparked by contractor working on fence

Dinah Cotton, Contributor

On May 29 around 2pm, Shadi Allen, a resident of Mountain Laurel Lane in Los Gatos, became aware of a possible fire

while she was on the second floor of her home. She smelled smoke wafting through the bedrooms, then looked out of a window.

That’s when she saw the grayish cloud moving across the backyard. This all could only mean one thing: fire. And it was close. She dialed 911 and

ran outside clutching fire extinguishers.

The contracting company workers, who’d been repairing a concrete fence, were coming towards her—away from a small brush fire. A spark from their equipment had apparently set the

➝ Defensible Space, 1

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Dan Pulcrano Executive Editor & Publisher

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VOL.3 NO.41

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LOS GATOS AND MONTE SERENO STUDENTS RACK UP ACADEMIC HONORS

Staff Report

AVERY MCCLOUGHAN NAMED TO SNHU PRESIDENT'S LIST

Los Gatos student Avery McCloughan has been named to Southern New Hampshire University's Winter 2024 President's List. The winter terms run from January to May.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum gradepoint average of 3.7. LOCAL STUDENTS GRADUATE FROM HARVEY MUDD COLLEGE

Sophie Bekerman of Los Gatos received a bachelor of science degree from Harvey Mudd College with a joint major in computer science and mathematics, graduating with high distinction and departmental honors in computer science. Bekerman attended Los Gatos High School.

Cassandra Ruedy of Los Gatos received a bachelor of science degree from Harvey Mudd College with a major in computer science and graduating with distinction. Ruedy attended Harker School.

STAR WILDCAT FOOTBALL PLAYER RECOGNIZED FOR ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

On May 28, Emilia Flint, the chair of the School of Behavioral Sciences at Black Hills State University, wrote a letter to Emiliano Mejia to announce that the former Los Gatos High School Wildcats football star had been named to the Dean’s List.

“The quality of your effort has been recognized by your professors and now the University adds this recognition,” Flint wrote.

LOS GATANS RECEIVE DEGREES AT WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE

On Friday, May 10, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WxPI) held its 155th Commencement. Nearly 1,100 undergraduate degrees were awarded during the ceremony.

Alessandro Brianti, of Los Gatos, California, who majored in Computer Science, and Alistair Gilmour, who majored in Interactive Media and Game Development— both from Los Gatos—were among the graduates.

"During your time here, you have been immersed in a transformative, leading-edge, and inclusive environment to ready you for jobs, careers, and, also, exciting opportunities to come,” said President Grace J. Wang.

LALLY GRADUATES FROM STONEHILL COLLEGE

Katherine Lally, of Los Gatos, was among 625 students to process at Stonehill College's 73rd Commencement on May 19, in North Easton, Mass.

During the ceremony, Ed Cooley '94, head coach of the Georgetown University men's basketball team, gave the keynote address.

NAZARETH U INDUCTS

LOS GATAN TO DEAN'S LIST

On May 30, Nazareth University announced it was proud to welcome Mackenzie Cacciaguidi to the Dean's List for the spring 2024 semester.

To reach this achievement, a student's grade point average must be at least 3.5 or above, and they must complete 12 credit hours of graded work.

NICHOLAS WEIDELING GRADUATES FROM MARIETTA COLLEGE

Los Gatos student Nicholas Weideling was among more than 215 students who received diplomas at Marietta College's 187th commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 4, in the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center.

Weideling, a Los Gatos High School grad, completed all the necessary requirements to achieve a Bachelor of Arts degree in Finance, at the Ohio school.

EMERSON

STUDENTS EARN DEAN'S LIST

Three local students made the Dean’s List at Emerson College this semester:

• Brandon Krish, of Monte Sereno, who is majoring in Media Arts Production and is a member of the Class of 2025.

• Emmy Portnoy, of Los Gatos, a Marketing Communication major who is a member of the Class of 2027.

• Callie Mayer, also from Los Gatos, is majoring in Theatre and Performance and is a member of the Class of 2026.

CREGG MAKES HONOR ROLL AT U OF MISSISSIPPI

Mckenzie Cregg, of Los Gatos, was named to the University of Mississippi's Spring 2024 Honor Roll. This means the General Business major earned a semester GPA in the range of 3.50-3.74.

MARUCCI NAMED TO DEAN'S LIST AT MIAMI U

Drew Marucci, from Los Gatos, was named to the Dean's list at Miami University, in Oxford, Ohio, for the 2024 spring semester.

Miami University students who are ranked in the top twenty percent of

undergraduate students within their division for the spring semester 2024 receive this honor.

GRACE TOMLIN EXCELS AT UNIVERSITY OF IOWA

Grace Tomlin, of Los Gatos, was among the undergraduate students at the University of Iowa named to the Dean's List for the 2024 spring semester. Tomlin is a fourth-year student in Iowa's Tippie College of Business and is majoring in Management.

WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE

ANNOUNCES DEAN'S LIST

The following students were named to the in Worcester, Mass.-based Worcester Polytechnic Institute Dean's List, for Spring 2024:

• Alessandro Brianti, of Los Gatos (class of 2024), majoring in Computer Science

• Jamie Rapal, of Los Gatos (class of 2025), majoring in Computer Science

• Alex Ryan, of Monte Sereno, (class of 2026), majoring in Biology and Biotechnology

BRYNN MCGEE EARNS ACCOLADE AT SALVE REGINA UNIVERSITY

Brynn McGee, from Los Gatos, was named to the Dean's List during the Spring 2024 academic semester at Salve Regina University, in Rhode Island. To qualify for the Dean's List, students must earn a semester GPA of 3.6 for full-time students completing at least 12 graded credits, or a semester grade point average of 3.8 for parttime students.

Salve Regina University is a Catholic, coeducational institution of higher education founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1947.

FIRST LADY TO LOS GATOS AUDIENCE: ‘DO WE WANT THE CHAOS, HATE AND DIVISION OF DONALD TRUMP?’

Jill Biden, from page 1

dangerous to families, institutions and the entire US democratic system.

And she said people want to make the election “about any number of issues,” adding, the only question that matters is, “Do we want the chaos, hate and division of Donald Trump, or the stability, integrity and character of Joe Biden?”

Jill Biden said it’s not wrong for Americans to worry their rights might be in jeopardy this election season.

“Because they are,” she said. “As if our democracy is on the line. Because it is.”

There were around 70-80 people in attendance at the outdoor deck overlooking the Santa Cruz Mountains. The event began around 12:40pm.

The bar sported floral arrangements and small pride and transgender equality flags.

“Everyone is welcome here, especially during pride,” Hunt-Scott said. “We need everyone in this moment, because what stands before us is so critical. It is so big. In November, we have to protect democracy; we have to

protect free and fair elections; we have to protect a woman’s right to choose; we have to protect transgender kids.”

According to the White House, the crowd included 40 educators, who heard how, while second lady during the Obama administration, Jill Biden embraced education advocacy.

“Dr. Biden is, like, the real deal educator, folks,” Hunt-Scott said.

She called the first lady the president’s “most trusted confidante,” describing her as “tireless” and fierce.”

CORRECTION

The June 12 article “Rowing Club has best nationals outing ever” misspelled the name of Los Gatos Rowing Club Director Jaime Velez. We regret the error.

• Are you considering

• Are you thinking about retiring to a different location or moving to a senior living community, but worried about the tax consequences if you sell your primary residence?

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RIBBON-CUTTING FOR AMBROSIA INDIAN BISTRO HELD LAST WEEK

Monterey Bay restaurant chain expands with North Santa Cruz Avenue location

Dinah Cotton, Contributor

What does that word “ambrosia” mean to you? If you are of a certain vintage, you can’t help but think of a gelatinous pineapple, mandarin orange and Cool Whip creation—served upside down—that your grandma made on holidays. A special treat.

Today in Los Gatos, it means: Ambrosia Indian Bistro. Translation? Yummy, delicious. The Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce team, headed by Executive Director Jennifer Lin, along with Events and Marketing Manager Lauren Scalora, and Social Media Coordinator Beth Foley, organized a ribbon-cutting for the restaurant, which has several locations already in the Monterey Bay area. (By the way, have you purchased your Los Gatos Loyal Card yet?)

With Mayor Mary Badame holding the scissors with Shyam “Sam” Khanal, president of Ambrosia, and Chef Kapil Dhaka assisting with the red ribbon, a successful cut was executed. This followed Khanal expressing his gratitude to the Chamber and for everyone else in attendance. It was now officially fully open, welcoming one and all.

Khanal, who is originally from Nepal,ushered us inside. We found an attentive staff and soothing decor. The ceiling lamps were made of cacao leaves that emitted a soft light. Seating was available at the full bar, with a mixologist and a variety of vodkas available (think lychee). Most of the guests in our group drank the cool and crisp white wine.

To our left is what can only be described as a freeform wood sculpture. We’d learn it’s the polished roots of a teak tree from Indonesia. But just how did Khanal come up with the name “Ambrosia”? He replied, “Well, you know ambrosia is the ‘food of the gods.’ We wanted to give a unique name, not like a typical Indian name kind of thing. The business had its soft opening on March 22. “And now, from today, we are absolutely open,” Khanal added. “We have four locations now; please try them all.” He went on, “We had customers come to our Scotts Valley location

from Los Gatos, and they encouraged us to open here in Los Gatos…And we are blessed with this location.”

They opened their first restaurant in Monterey in 2007. “People used to go from Santa Cruz to Monterey, saying that we need some good Indian food in Aptos, in the Santa Cruz area.” They opened the location there in 2009. “I did not even find the Aptos location myself,” he said. “A customer called me and said, ‘Hey, you know what? I have a spot for you. You wanna come and check it out?’” The same thing happened in Scotts Valley, too. “We never hunt for our location. A customer finds it. And that was 2016,” he added. “We were hunting for a location here in Los Gatos. So, when we saw this location available on the Web, I said, “OK, let’s go.”

Chef Dhakal has many secret recipes, as does Khanal. Most of the savory

dishes cook for hours to obtain their incredible flavor. “Some of the recipes came from our grandpas and grandmothers in the north of India,” he said. “Some of the dishes are our own creation.” Butter chicken fans will appreciate how their take on it melts in your mouth. “It takes at least five hours to cook it,” he said. “We also have 3-4 sauces that takes about 4-5 hours to cook—and some take overnight.” He went on explaining that the naan bread has anise and fennel seeds in it.

Just then, his wife Aarya Khanal, walked by. The El Camino Health nurse has a laser-focus on safety. “I make sure the restaurant has all of the requirements,” she said. “I make sure that the food is good.” As us locals know, El Camino is a supporter of the upcoming Jazz on the Plazz outdoor concert series.

Their son, Aansh, is 17. Their daugh-

ter is nine. The son has been working in the restaurant, and previously worked in the Scotts Valley location. Dee Shrestha, one of the partners, came over, as I’d asked Khanal about that organic artwork by the entrance. “The root sculpture is around 300 pounds of teak root,” he said. “Well, we had a very hard time to get it into the restaurant, due to its weight and size.” Khanal added, “We were very worried about getting it inside.”

On the other wall a very large hand-painted Ganesha deity sits, God of Beginnings, quite fitting for the occasion. You can make a reservation now, or take a chance and drop by on your evening walk. Once the word gets out about our town's newest culinary delight, it might not be that easy to get in.

Dinah Cotton / Los Gatan

GRAND OPENING Shyam “Sam” Khanal and Mayor Mary Badame officially open Ambrosia Indian Bistro’s newest location in downtown Los Gatos.

Ambrosia Indian Bistro is located at 133 N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos

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BRIGHT FUTURES

Where are your favorite Los Gatos players headed?

High school athletes put in countless hours of training, all while trying to balance relationships and a challenging academic course load. Early mornings, dealing with glorious wins and painful losses, and pushing yourself past your limit—it’s all part of the drill.

Some lucky students manage to capture the attention of recruiters at educational institutions around the region—and across the country.

Photographer Jonathan Natividad dug through his digital negatives and hit social media to deliver this roundup of where talented young Los Gatans are planning to play next.

➝ Bright Future, 14

Jonathan Natividad / Los Gatan

LOOKING FORWARD Infielder Carter Johnstone is headed to CSU Fullerton to compete in Division 1 baseball.

FIELDWORK Spencer Burg has committed to becoming a Sooner at the University of Oklahoma on the rugby paddock.

SD BOUND Liam Amburgey committed to competing for UC San Diego’s D1 water polo squad.

FUTBOL Mike Vick is committed to Cal Poly SLO to play men’s soccer.

Jonathan Natividad / Los Gatan

Jonathan Natividad / Los Gatan

Jonathan Natividad / Los Gatan

DISCOVER LOST GATOS

THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD

A Brief History of Highway 17 - Pt.1

Alan Feinberg, Contributor

This is the first in a two-part series.

Summer is here, accompanied by the usual traffic gridlock, so let’s all take a deep breath while I share the mostly forgotten history of our much maligned Highway 17.

If you think traveling over the hill is an ordeal today, imagine what it was like in the late 1800s. Your stagecoach ride would be a slow, dusty, bone-rattling

and sometimes dangerous journey. Your coach might get stuck in the mud in the winter. Or, your horses might panic at the sight of a snake—and take you careening over the edge. A typical trip from San Jose could take all day.

The first roads into the mountains were primarily for logging. In 1848, early settler Zachariah “Buffalo” Jones purchased a sawmill near the future town of Lexington and claimed squatters rights to thousands of acres around it. Nicknamed “Buffalo” for his booming voice, Zachariah built a short logging road to his mill and demanded outrageous tolls for the right to pass.

To provide greater access to mountain redwoods and to break Jones’ monopoly, citizens petitioned Santa Clara County to construct a road all the way to the Santa Cruz county line. In 1857, the County awarded a charter (or contract) to the Santa Cruz Gap Turnpike Joint Stock Company to construct a private toll road, which would become public after 20 years.

In 1858, Mountain Charlie McKiernan and his neighbor Hiram Scott, were awarded a contract to build a similar toll road from the summit to Hiram’s rancho, which encompassed much of present day Scotts Valley.

With roads on both sides of the hill, McKiernan’s home near the summit became a popular stagecoach stop called Halfway House. Charlie’s wife Barbara cooked meals for their guests, while he helped with the horses.

To collect tolls at the Southbound entrance, Scottish immigrant James “Pappy” Kennedy and his wife built a combination home and toll house where James worked as the official Tollgate Keeper. The small rebuilt structure on the corner of Wood Road and South Santa Cruz Avenue is a replica of that original house.

When the turnpike company insist-

Los Gatos

TO THE SAWMILLS Powerful teams of oxen were needed to haul heavily-laden wagons of redwood logs down from the mountains.

IN A CLOUD OF DUST Stagecoach travel was a dirty, bone-rattling and often dangerous way to travel over the mountains.

ed on collecting tolls even after their charter expired in 1877, the teamsters who drove wagons and stagecoaches were furious and refused to pay. They accused Kennedy of extortion and used their powerful horse teams to pull down the toll gate.

After the gate had been forcefully removed and replaced several times, citizens stood guard to prevent the turnpike company from rebuilding it. Several hundred people demanded that the County declare the entire road a public highway, which they did in 1878. That didn’t stop the Company from spending years in court trying to reestablish what had been an extremely profitable enterprise. They were never able to do so, and the mat-

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Photo 1:

IN A CLOUD OF DUST: Stagecoach travel was a dirty, bone-rattling and often dangerous way to travel over the mountains.

(credit: Los Gatos Library and Museum History Project)

Photo 2:

BEFORE CALTRANS: In the early 1900s, Charles Cook and his men served as the maintenance crew on the Old Santa Cruz Road.

(CREDIT: Los Gatos Library and Museum History Project)

Photo 3:

TO THE SAWMILLS: Powerful teams of oxen were needed to haul heavily-laden wagons of redwood logs down from the mountains.

(credit: Los Gatos Library and Museum History Project)

ter was finally settled by the California Supreme Court in 1906.

Next month, we’ll explore the more recent history of Highway 17. In the meantime, you can experience what Buffalo Jones’ toll road was like by hiking on Jones Trail in the St. Joseph’s Hill Open Space Preserve. You can also take a drive on Mountain Charlie Road, which is a remnant of his former toll road.

Alan Feinberg is a local historian and founder of the LOST Gatos Project. 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 information visit lostgatos.com .

BEFORE CALTRANS In the early 1900s, Charles Cook and his men served as the maintenance crew on the Old Santa Cruz Road.

GUEST VIEW

INTROVERTS AND SOCIAL ANXIETY: WHAT’S THE

Author focused on mental health issues dives into an exploration on the subject

Stan Popovich, Contributor

Being an introvert and social anxiety are often confused, but they’re not the same. An introvert is a personality trait. Social anxiety is a mental health condition. An introvert might resist going to a party because they get drained from loud music and too much social interaction. Someone with social anxiety, on the other hand, might feel dread or panic about going to a party. They worry they’ll say something “stupid” or that people won’t like them.

WHAT IS AN INTROVERT?

Introverts are more focused on their internal thoughts and feelings than on external stimulation. Introverts prefer time to themselves and small group interactions. Crowds and parties can drain introverts, who usually need time to themselves to “recharge” after social activities. Being introverted has a biological explanation. The introvert brain is more sensitive to external stimuli— things like noisy environments and crowds—because of something called the RAS, an area of the brain that regulates arousal. Introverts have a higher set point, meaning their brain is triggered more easily by outside stimulation. Extroverts have a lower set point. They’re not as bothered by crowds or loud noise. In fact, extroverts are often energized by social interaction.

5 SIGNS YOU’RE AN INTROVERT

Introversion and extroversion occur on a continuum. Most people fall somewhere closer to the middle, but lean slightly more one way or the other. Here are some signs you’re an introvert: 1. Being around crowds or large groups drains your energy. If you feel exhausted after a party, concert, or a group outing and need quiet time to yourself to recuperate, you might be an introvert. Introverts expend energy in social situations, while extroverts gain energy from interactions with others.

INTERNAL LANDSCAPE People choose to stay home for a variety of reasons. But if you do have social anxiety, there are resources available.

2. You have a small group of friends If you love spending one-on-one time with others and prefer small groups, you might be an introvert. Introverts usually have a small circle of close friends, while extroverts often have a larger social circle of friends and acquaintances, many of whom they only interact with on a superficial level.

3. You enjoy spending time alone. If a few hours alone with a good book or a solo nature walk is your idea of a good time, you’re in good company with other introverts.

4. You prefer working alone. If the thought of collaborating with others or working on group projects overwhelms you, you might be an introvert. This doesn’t mean you don’t work well with others. Introverts just prefer to work independently most of the time.

5. You find yourself daydreaming a lot. Introverts spend a lot of time in their heads. They have a very active inner mind and like to plan and prepare before taking action. They also gravitate toward self-reflection and research.

WHAT IS SOCIAL ANXIETY?

“He’s just shy.” “She gets quiet around people.” You’ve heard these refrains before. Maybe your mom or dad even said things like this to describe you as a child. Some people are shy as kids and grow out of it as they get older. Some people are shy as adults, too. But others feel outright panic, terror, or dread in social situations. These people have social anxiety disorder (also called social phobia), a type of anxiety disorder that causes extreme fear in social situations.

People with social anxiety disorder find it hard to meet new people. They worry others will judge or scrutinize them. They may also worry others won’t like them. Many people with social anxiety realize their fears aren’t rational, but it doesn’t change the panic they feel about social situations.

People with social anxiety may reach for alcohol to face social situations, and they may start to worry about a social event, days or weeks in advance. People with extreme social phobias might avoid all kinds of social situations, from parties to interviews

DIFFERENCE?

to meetings, and even shopping and eating in public.

WHAT CAUSES SOCIAL ANXIETY?

Unlike introversion, social anxiety isn’t necessarily something you’re born with, although researchers think there could be a genetic component. It usually develops over time and often starts in a person’s teens.

Negative experiences like bullying, family conflict and abuse might contribute to a person developing social anxiety. Serotonin imbalance may also be partly to blame. Serotonin is a brain chemical that helps regulate mood. When it’s imbalanced, it can make the amygdala—the brain’s fear center—overreact.

OVERCOMING SOCIAL ANXIETY

So, if you suffer from social anxiety, what can you do? The good news is: plenty. Since social anxiety is a disorder, there are some hallmark signs, including a constant fear of social situations due to fear of humiliation or embarrassment, feeling panicky or anxious before social situations, and anxiety that disrupts your daily life.

Cognitive behavioral therapy can help people manage their social anxiety. CBT helps you learn to control anxiety by replacing negative thoughts with positive ones.

Exposure therapy is also helpful for some people. It helps you gradually face social situations rather than avoiding them. Eventually, social interactions cause less anxiety.

Group therapy with others who have social anxiety also helps some people.

One thing is certain: To overcome social anxiety you must be willing to confront it. But what if you can’t afford individual therapy or counseling programs? Thankfully, there are other easily-accessible resources available.

Stan Popovich is the author of "A Layman's Guide to Managing Fear" which covers a variety of techniques to improve your mental health. For more information, please visit Stan's website at managingfear.com

STANDOUT PLAYERS LOOK AHEAD TO HIGHER EDUCATION FUTURES

Bright Futures, from page 8

SOCAL Caitlyn Simons has signed to the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos to compete in women’s soccer.

BALLER Nolan Koch has made a commitment to compete in men’s basketball at Lawrence University in Wisconsin, next year.

April 24, he was named the 2024 SCVAL Male Scholar Athlete of the Year.

POOL FIEND Karly Frangieh signed with the Arizona State Sun Devils to compete in women’s water polo in 2025.

DRIVEN Jaylen Thomas is set to play football for the San Jose State University Spartans.

Natividad / Los Gatan

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INFIELDER Carter Johnstone, who made his mark with the Wildcats as a shortstop, is set to play baseball for CSU Fullerton in Division 1.

RELEASE Anthony Andrews recently committed to play baseball for the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

FIRE OFFICIALS PRAISE COMMUNITY MEMBERS FOR PROACTIVITY

Defensible Space, from page 1

recently mowed field ablaze, she told the Los Gatan. And this fire was moving fast.

The workers took the fire extinguishers and raced back towards the flames, in an attempt to prevent the fire from spreading. As Allen started to pull the garden hose towards the blaze (which was moving rapidly in the direction of her neighbors’ driveway), she could hear the distant wail of sirens. Santa Clara County Fire Department (SCCFD) was on its way.

This incident, near Rocky Ridge Trail, could’ve been the birthplace of a major catastrophe. As the skilled team from SCCFD put this brush fire under their capable control, the neighbors heaved a huge sigh of relief.

According to Erica Ray, an information specialist with SCCFD, a letter was mailed Feb. 22 to property owners in designated fire hazard zones. This informed recipients they had until April 1 to bring their property into fire code compliance.

Due to these “Enforced Safety Regulations” being followed by the Mountain Laurel Lane community, homes were saved, fire officials say. The flames were halted before they could travel up hillsides brimming with perfect fuel for brush fires. The fire wasn't even allowed onto the property of neighbor Tyrone Willingham, a retired Notre Dame and Stanford football coach.

Allen had just had her field mowed 10 days prior to this incident, and Willingham’s property had been cleared, as well. “We cut (the grass) every year,” Allen said. “This year, we had to wait till the grass was dry.” And it had grown quite tall—around five feet high. "We always try to have it cut by Memorial Day,” she said. “This year, we had more rain than usual, so there was still some green grass. We had to wait ‘till it was dry, and then we cut it." She said she was glad the contracting company was available at that

Erica Ray / SCCFD

OVERVIEW An aerial view of Mountain Laurel Lane, taken after the fire, clearly demonstrates how effectively the blaze was contained.

Erica Ray / SCCFD

FIREFIGHTERS SCCFD Capt. Matt Mokhtarian looks on as Hazardous Materials

Assistant Fire Marshal Jeremy Davis lauds a Los Gatos neighborhood for following defensible space rules.

point. "Unfortunately, the contractors inadvertently started the fire after we cut the grass,” said Allen.

“Take it seriously, when you get that letter from the fire department,” said Allen, who is now a major proponent of defensible space. “Save your home; save yourself; save your community— take it seriously," she continued. "We have such dry summers. This is something that should not be overlooked.”

Allen shared her story with the media at a June 12 event. SCCFD Fire Captain Matt Mokhtarian also spoke. “We are here at the site of a recent vegetation fire to highlight the work done by homeowners that allowed fire crews to safely combat this incident,” he said. “County Fire was dispatched to a vegetation fire in the area of Hicks Road and Shannon Road, and one home was determined to be immediately threatened.” The fire was brought under control in less than an hour.

Assistant Fire SCCFD Marshal Jeremy Davis said the preventative efforts by the residents made a huge difference to extinguishing the fire quickly. “Maintain defensible space—100 feet of it around your structures,” he said. “Mow down the grasses…We go to the edge of the fire when we arrive on scene looking for defensible space. We defend there.”

Willingham spoke next, praising his neighbors. “We followed the letter about what we should do on our property—our entire community also did,” he said. “Defensible space was key…There is no playbook for fires. We followed all of the suggestions in the letter and had a positive outcome. We are grateful for SCCFD’s quick response and Allen’s call to 911.”

He pointed to where the fire had inched its way right up to the edge of his driveway. His home and beautiful landscaping were still intact.

AdFictitious Business Name Statements

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #706116

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: J And K Rentals, 15971 Quail Road, Los Gatos, CA, 95032, Donald C Wimberly. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 08/10/1992. /s/Donald C Wimberly. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 05/17/2024. (pub LG 05/29, 06/05, 06/12, 06/19/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #706223

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Redmond Auto Services, 1331 Redmond Ave., San Jose, CA, 95120, Ben Talebi. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 09/18/2014. /s/ben Talebi. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 05/22/2024. (pub Metro 05/29, 06/05, 06/12, 06/19/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #705655

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Corvette Clinic, 1850 W. San Carlos St., San Jose, CA, 95128, Matthew John Rohr. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 05/01/2024. /s/Matthew John Rohr. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 05/10/2024. (pub LG 05/29, 06/05, 06/12, 06/19/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #706282

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Samantha Lykins Esthetics, 14760 Elton Court, San Jose, CA, 95124, Samantha Anne Lykins. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 05/22/2024. /s/Samantha Anne Lykins. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 05/23/2024. (pub LG 05/29, 06/05, 06/12, 06/19/2024)

File Number: FBN705998 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: Bloom Plaza Animal Hospital , 5647 Snell Avenue, San Jose, CA 95123. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, PetVet Care Centers (California), Inc., One Gorham Island Road, Suite 300, Westport, CT 06880. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 03/15/2019 and 05/14/2024 is the file date.

Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Elaine Fader /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. PetVet Care Centers (California), Inc, Article/Reg # 3819003, Above Entity was Formed in the State of Delaware. /s/ Adeline Park /s/ Vice President. (Pub LGN: 05/29, 06/05, 06/12, 06/19/2024)

PUBLIC NOTICES

Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Amanda Hendricks /s/. (Pub LGN: 05/29, 06/05, 06/12, 06/19/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #706203

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Pre-Owned Cars N Trucks, 6901 Monterey Rd STE B, Gilroy, CA, 95020, Ioniq Car Company Corp. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 10/06/2023. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/ Fahmy A Sarkis. Secretary. #5915181. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 05/21/2024. (pub Metro 06/05, 06/12, 06/19, 06/26/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #705476

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: One Mortgage Central, 2221 Oakland Road Suite 268A, San Jose, CA, 95131, Silicon City Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Timothy Chau. President. #3725482. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/25/2024. (pub Metro 06/05, 06/12, 06/19, 06/26/2024)

File Number: FBN706388 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: Shiny Tickets 858 Civic Center Dr, Santa Clara, CA 95050. County: Santa Clara. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, #202460512987 California. Golden Ticket Promotions, LLC, 858 Civic Center Dr, Santa Clara, CA 95050. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A and 05/29/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez, Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, 1st Floor, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Moises Rodriguez, Managing Member, Golden Ticket Promotions, LLC. (Pub LGN 6/5, 6/12, 6/19, 6/26)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #706490

under file No. FBN691044. Full Name of Registrant (s): Moorevalue Corporation, 15500 Los Gatos Blvd, Los Gatos, CA 95032. This business was conducted by: A Corporation. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Elaine Fader /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ John Y Moore /s/ President. Dated: June 3, 2024. (PUB LGN: 06/12, 06/19, 06/26, 07/03/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #706309

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Cartwright Concrete Coatings, 1721 Rogers Ave Suite P, San Jose, CA, 95112, Cartwright Painters LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/ Brandon Cartwright. Owner. #202252316451. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 05/24/2024. (pub Metro 06/12, 06/19, 06/26, 07/03/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #706737

Cutlines: (Overview)

OVERVIEW Aerial view of Mountain Laurel Lane burn scar.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Ginkgo, 1026 E Evelyn Ave., Sunnyvale, CA, 94086, MDYS LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 03/25/2021. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Yusong Dong. Managing Member. #202201910122. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 06/07/2024. (pub Metro 06/12, 06/19, 06/26, 07/03/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #706684

Credit: Erica Ray / SCCFD (Shadi)

AFTERMATH Shadi Allen in front of the brush fire area next to her home.

Credit: Dinah Cotton / Los Gatan (Tyrone)

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Realty World Santa Clara Valley, 1101 So Winchester Blvd., Suite A-109, Re Asset Mgmt. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 04/19/2024. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Robert M Zuvela. President. #6151568. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 05/31/2024. (pub Metro 06/12, 06/19, 06/26, 07/03/2024)

, taken after the fire, clearly demonstrates how effectively the blaze was containedCCFD.laudsP16 Jump Head: FIRE OFFICIALS PRAISE COMMUNITY MEMBERS FOR PROACTIVITY

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #705490

COACH Tyrone Willingham showing how he prepared his front yard for this year’s fire season.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: AM Backflow, 2317 Stratford Dr., San Jose, CA, 95124, Ante Marusic. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 05/30/2024. /s/Ante Marusic. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 06/06/2024. (pub LG 06/19, 06/26, 07/03, 07/10/2024)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #706900

Credit: Dinah Cotton / Los Gatan (Jeremy Davis)

KUDOS Jeremy Davis, Assistant Fire Marshall congratulates Shadi Allen for her quick thinking—and for creating defensible space around her home.

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: FRM Construction, 4292 Albany Dr., Apt# O-158, San Jose, CA, 95129, Grank R. Meisse. This business is being conducted by a n Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Frank R. Meisse. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/25/2024. (pub Metro 06/05, 06/12, 06/19, 06/26/2024)

Credit: Dinah Cotton / Los Gatan (Firefighters)

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: health Guru For You, 5655 Silver Creek Valley Rd., #412, San Jose, CA, 95138, E P Planning LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 06/12/2024. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/ William Edward Pence. President. #201931910013. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 06/13/2024. (pub Metro 06/19, 06/26, 07/03, 07/10/2024)

FIREFIGHTERS

Santa Clara

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #705973

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Emperial Security Services, 1 Vista Montana Apt 3432, San Jose, CA, 95134, Ernest Ogbonnaya. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 05/01/2024. s/Ernest Ogbonnaya. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 05/13/2024. (pub LG 05/29, 06/05, 06/12, 06/19/2024)

File Number: FBN706190. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: ECOSYNAPSE 16185 Los Gatos Boulevard, Suite 205, Los Gatos, CA 95032. This business is conducted by: An Individual, Amanda Hendricks, 167 Villa Ave. Apt #10, Los Gatos, CA 95030. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 12/11/2019 and 05/21/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME #705480

County Fire Department Captain Matt Mokhtarian looks on as Hazardous Materials Assistant Fire Marshal Jeremy Davis heaps praise on a Los Gatos neighborhood.

Credit: Erica Ray / SCCFD

The following person(s) / registrant(s) has / have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s): Carlos Villez, 1016 S. 8th St., San Jose, CA, 95112, Martha Chavoya Villanueva. Filed in the Santa Clara County on 11/07/2022. under file No. 690099. This business was conducted by: A Individual. Filed on 4/25/2024. /s/Mark W. Butler (pub dates: (06/05, 06/12, 06/19, 06/26/2024)

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME. FBN706541, filed on 06/03/2024. The following person(s)/registrant(s) has/have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s): Moore GMC, 15500 Los Gatos Blvd, Los Gatos, CA 95032. Filed in Santa Clara county on 12/22/2022

File Number: FBN706710. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: IG Framing , 550 W Fremont Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. This business is conducted by: An Individual, Jorge Ivan Gerardo Cortez, PO Box 2239, Sunnyvale, CA 94087. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Not Applicable and 06/06/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Elaine Fader /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Jorge Ivan Gerardo Cortez /s/. (Pub LGN: 06/19, 06/26, 07/03, 07/10/2024)

File Number: FBN706802 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 7 Noodles & Sizzling , 3617 Union Ave, San Jose, CA 95124. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, Liu Noodle House, 15210 Camden Ave, San Jose, CA 95124. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 12/23/2023 and 06/11/2024 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Mike Louie /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. Liu Noodle House, Article/Reg #5929227, Above Entity was Formed in the State of California. /s/ Hsin Ti Liu /s/ CEO. (Pub LGN: 06/19, 06/26, 07/03, 07/10/2024)

Erica Ray / SCCFD

AFTERMATH Shadi Allen in front of the brush fire area next to her home.