Los Gatan 1-4-2023

CRIMINAL JUSTICE, HEALTHCARE AND MORE AMONG NEW LAWS FOR ’23

Todd Guild, Reporter

With a flurry of new laws ready to take effect, the Los Gatan took a look at a handful of the more notable ones, which take on several aspects of criminal justice, health services and firearms.

WALKING A FINE LINE

Before Assembly Bill 2147 was signed into law in September, pedestrians with the audacity to cross the street where no crosswalk existed had the full force of the law come down upon them in the form of a moving violation and a roughly $250 fine. But after Jan. 1, that heinous act will be decriminalized, thanks to the so-called Freedom to Walk act.

With jaywalkers now free to terrorize society at large, crossing wherever they see fit, what’s next? Dogs and cats living together?

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

On a more serious note, Senate Bill 357 decriminalizes loitering for the purposes of prostitution, a charge that has historically come down harder on Black women in urban areas. According to the American Civil Liberties Union, Black adults make up 50% of the arrests for this crime in Los Angeles, despite being just under 9% of the City’s population.

REGION BRACES FOR WIDESPREAD FLOODING DURING ‘BRUTAL’

STORM

Bay City News

The entire Bay Area will be under a flood watch beginning Wednesday due to a heavy storm system expected to be as bad or worse than Saturday's deluge and which will likely result in the loss of human life, according to a dire forecast update from the National Weather Service.

The update issued Monday afternoon includes five key points, with the first one noting a "threat to life likely during this storm." Mudslides are anticipated due to saturated soil, and rapidly rising creeks and streams will pose additional dangers.

NEW YEAR BABY Tai Bass and Kirby Nelson welcomed Nylashae into the world on Jan. 1, the first baby born in 2023 at El Camino Health’s Los Gatos hospital. Nylashae, born at 12:16am, is seven pounds, eight ounces, and 20 inches. The team at El Camino Health crowned the mother with a tiara and toasted with some sparkling apple cider to ring in the New Year.

El Camino Health

LOS GATOS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL DE ANZA LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 2022

LOS GATOS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL DE ANZA LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 2022

Incredibly

LOS GATOS HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL DE ANZA LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 2022

Incredibly Proud and Grateful

Incredibly Proud and Grateful

Incredibly Proud and Grateful

For more than 25 years, as a Top Producer, Lucy's passion has been 'Selling Silicon Valley'. From palatial estates and vintage victorians, historic gems and charming bungalows! Joined by Keith Andry, who brings a wealth of knowledge with a BS in Finance, and the distinction of being Lucy's favorite Son-In-Law! As Brokers and Certified Negotiation Experts, Lucy and Keith continue to achieve a 90% Referral basis! Unparalleled service and exceeding client expectations are the hallmark of their success! We welcome your business!

For more than 25 years, as a Top Producer,

For more than 25 years, as a Top Producer, Lucy's passion has been 'Selling Silicon Valley'. From palatial estates and vintage victorians, historic gems and charming bungalows! Joined by Keith Andry, who brings a wealth of knowledge with a BS in Finance, and the distinction of being Lucy's favorite Son-In-Law! As Brokers and Certified Negotiation Experts, Lucy and Keith continue to achieve a 90% Referral basis! Unparalleled service and exceeding client expectations are the hallmark of their success! We welcome your business!

408-891-6861 lucy@serenogroup.com

Lucy Wedemeyer Broker

Lucy Wedemeyer Broker

Lucy Wedemeyer Broker

DRE# 00640875 408-891-6861 lucy@serenogroup.com

For more than 25 years, as a Top Producer, Lucy's passion has been 'Selling Silicon Valley'. From palatial estates and vintage victorians, historic gems and charming bungalows! Joined by Keith Andry, who brings a wealth of knowledge with a BS in Finance, and the distinction of being Lucy's favorite Son-In-Law! As Brokers and Certified Negotiation Experts, Lucy and Keith continue to achieve a 90% Referral basis! Unparalleled service and exceeding client expectations are the hallmark of their success! We welcome your business!

For more than 25 years, as a Top Producer, Lucy's passion has been 'Selling Silicon Valley'. From palatial estates and vintage victorians, historic gems and charming bungalows! Joined by Keith Andry, who brings a wealth of knowledge with a BS in Finance, and the distinction of being Lucy's favorite Son-In-Law! As Brokers and Certified Negotiation Experts, Lucy and Keith continue to achieve a 90% Referral basis! Unparalleled service and exceeding client expectations are the hallmark of their success! We welcome your business!

Keith Andry Associate/Broker

DRE# 00640875 408-891-6861 lucy@serenogroup.com

DRE# 00640875 408-891-6861 lucy@serenogroup.com

DRE# 01470 408-891-4151 keith@serenogroup.com

Keith Andry Associate/Broker

Keith Andry Associate/Broker

Keith Andry Associate/Broker

DRE# 01470 408-891-4151 keith@serenogroup.com

DRE# 01470 408-891-4151 keith@serenogroup.com

DRE# 01470 408-891-4151 keith@serenogroup.com

This information was supplied by reliable sources. Sales Associate believes this information to be correct but has not verified this information and assumes no Legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyers should investigate these issues to their own satisfaction.

This information was supplied by reliable sources. Sales Associate believes this information to be correct but has not verified this information and assumes no Legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyers should investigate these issues to their own satisfaction.

This information was supplied by reliable sources. Sales Associate believes this information to be correct but has not verified this information and assumes no Legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyers should investigate these issues to their own satisfaction.

losgatan.com : december 7-13, 2022

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Submissions may be edited, and will be published as space permits. Letters are limited to 250 words, commentaries to 500 words.

CORRECTIONS

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WHO WE ARE

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REAL ESTATE

ADVERTISING NOTICE

All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based upon race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, familial status or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Publisher will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis.

TOWN DOUBLES AMOUNT FOR PARKING TICKET PROCESSOR

Council approves increase to software contract

Drew Penner, Reporter

During its last meeting of 2022, Los Gatos Town Council passed a six-figure increase to the amount it will pay to Turbo Data Systems, Inc. for parking permit and ticket processing.

In a unanimous vote, Council agreed to up the amount to send to the Santa Ana-based software company by $110,774 to $206,041.54, to get a three-year subscription extension.

This was passed as part of the consent calendar, which is for matters that won’t receive further discussion in open Council—generally non-controversial items.

The Town has been in the middle of trying to improve traffic flow in

the downtown area and direct drivers from limited parking spaces on North Santa Cruz Avenue to lots with abundant spaces elsewhere. It introduced an employee parking program and plans to turn some of the free spots around town to paid ones—though it’s finding the move isn’t going to be a big money-maker and will carry additional costs.

Los Gatos signed a deal with Turbo back in December 2017 for a fiveyear period.

The company uses a cloud-based system with an online interface that lets drivers view information about their ticket and how they can appeal the citation.

The software can also issue permits (including verifying residence information) and collect fees for Business Employee and Residential vehicles.

“The utilization of Turbo Data Systems has provided a more efficient and effective parking citation and permit issuance system, which is publicly accessible for permit and citation payment processing and has increased staff efficiencies within the parking program,” said Heather St. John, a senior administrative analyst, in a report. “In conjunction with elements of the Downtown Parking Plan, this vendor has also proven to be a valuable partner for parking citation and parking permit coordination for implementation of the Downtown Employee Permit Program.”

Los Gatos officials say there’s enough left in the Fiscal Year 2022/23 operating budget to cover this year’s subscription expense, and that payments will continue to be confirmed annually.

Turbo Data’s fees are based on the number of citations and permits issued, the procedures used for processing data, and equipment being leased on a monthly basis.

Approximately $95,000 was expensed during the original agreement term.

Dan

Alicia Trujillo

PARKING PROGRAM Vehicles line the streets of downtown Los Gatos, Tuesday. The spaces are currently free, but many will soon be converted to paid stalls for part of the day. The Town has been working to get all of its back-end systems ready for the debut.

Drew Penner/Los Gatan

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• Bedroom wing features a beautifully appointed light and airy primary suite retreat and two additional spacious bedrooms.

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• Phenomenal location within minutes to lively downtown Los Gatos shopping, trails, dining, wineries and freeways for easy commute access.

• Daves Avenue Elementary School, Fisher Middle School, and Los Gatos High School (buyer to verify)

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WHAT’S CHANGING IN 2023

Laws, from page 1

The new law also allows those convicted of the offense to clear it from their record.

Assembly Bill 1740 tightens the screws on recyclers that purchase catalytic converters by requiring them to record the year, make, model of the vehicle from whence the devices come.

It would also prohibit the recyclers from receiving catalytic converters from anyone that is not a commercial enterprise, or the vehicle’s owner.

Assembly Bill 1008 requires state prisons and jails to provide free phone calls to its inmates, and prohibits the facilities from profiting from them.

Assembly Bill 960 makes it easier for prison inmates to petition for compassionate release when facing a terminal illness if they don’t pose a danger to public safety.

In a first for the U.S., Assembly Bill 2799 limits a court’s ability to use song lyrics in criminal proceedings, saying it falls under the umbrella of creative expression.

Supporters say that the law protects rap, hip-hop and other artists whose lyrics venture into violence or describe criminal behavior.

The new law sets fairly high standards in which prosecutors can use lyrics.

AB 2799 stems from the racketeering conviction earlier this year of rapper Young Thug, where prosecutors used his song lyrics as evidence against him.

Under Assembly Bill 2746, people who fail to appear in court for unpaid traffic tickets will no longer face having their drivers licenses suspended. The law also reduces the penalty for driving without a license from a misdemeanor to an infraction.

Senate Bill 1472 adds participating in a sideshow and speeding more than 100 miles per hour to the list of crimes that constitute “gross negligence.”

Written to help some defendants avoid deportation, Assembly Bill 2195 gives prosecutors the discretion to charge some drug offenses as a public nuisance.

Assembly Bill 1641 requires that sexually violent predators on conditional release or on outpatient status to be monitored by a GPS until unconditionally discharged from their requirements.

Assembly Bill 1909 makes several changes to traffic laws regarding bicycles.

This includes a requirement for drivers to change lanes when passing bikes, when feasible. It also removes several prohibitions keeping e-bikes off of bicycle paths, equestrian trails and hiking trails, while still allowing local authorities to prohibit them on some trails.

Senate Bill 731 vastly expands the number of people eligible to have their criminal record cleared, excluding only sex offenders.

AW, SHOOT!

Lawmakers also took aim at socalled ghost guns with Assembly Bill 1621, which halts the sale of gun parts and kits—called “precursors”—until those items are regulated by the federal government.

Assembly Bill 2156 limits the making of 3D printed guns to licensed manufacturers.

ABORTION

In addition to voters overwhelmingly approving Proposition 1 in November, enshrining in the state’s Constitution a woman’s right to abortion, state lawmakers further gave support to that right with a package of new laws.

• Assembly Bill 2223 ensures that women cannot be held criminally or civilly liable for miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion, or perinatal death due to causes that occurred in utero.

• Assembly Bill 2091 prohibits healthcare providers from releasing medical information of women who come from out of state to seek abortion care.

• Assembly Bill 1242 prohibits law enforcement and other entities from cooperating with out-of-state entities in investigations involving lawful abortions in California.

• Senate Bill 523 requires health plans to cover certain over-thecounter birth control without cost sharing, and prohibits employment-related discrimination based on reproductive health decisions.

• Senate Bill 1375 calls for expanded training for nurse practitioners and

certified nurse-midwives to perform abortion care by aspiration techniques.

GENDER CARE

In a win for parents supporting their minor children seeking gender-affirming care in California, Senate Bill 107 prevents the State from participating in the prosecution of parents coming from a state where such care has been criminalized.

This new law stems in part from a Texas case in which that state’s Department of Family and Protective Services issued a directive that such care is tantamount to child abuse, and is grounds for them to lose custody.

PINK TAX

Assembly Bill 1287 targets the socalled “Pink Tax,” in which retailers and other businesses charge women more than men for the same products and services.

According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, women often pay as much as 7% higher than men. This law ends that practice, with violators subject to civil penalties.

HOLIDAYS

The new year also brings four new holidays. Juneteenth on June 19 is now law under Assembly Bill 1655. The second new moon following the winter solstice is now officially Lunar New Year thanks to Assembly Bill 2596. Genocide Remembrance Day now falls on April 24 under Assembly Bill 1801, and Assembly Bill 1741 makes Nov. 20 Transgender Day of Remembrance.

I’LL TAKE ONE OF EVERYTHING

In a win for street vendors—and for foodies always looking to try something new and exciting—Senate Bill 972 establishes a new category for the mobile businesses called Compact Mobile Food Operation.

These can be push-carts, stands or displays with or without wheels, and can include pedal-driven carts and wagons. The vendors must meet certain cleanliness standards.

NO MORE FUR

Animal rights activists are hailing Assembly Bill 44, which prohibits the sale and manufacture of animal fur clothing statewide.

PAY-NOW SURELY I CAN AFFORD MY RENT

The state’s minimum wage is going up to $15.50 per hour under Senate Bill 3, which was signed into law in 2016 by then-Gov. Jerry Brown.

UPDATES The New Year brings a slew of new laws centered around criminal justice.

POLICE BLOTTER

DEC. 25

• A woman was arrested for being in possession of a stolen vehicle and a controlled substance on the 15300 block of Los Gatos Boulevard at 2:33am.

• Someone slashed the tires of a vehicle parked on Los Gatos Boulevard.

• An unknown woman was reportedly sitting on a front porch trying to put on someone else’s shoes on El Cajon Way at 8:59am. She was arrested for being in possession of unlawful paraphernalia.

• A vehicle was reported stolen on Constitution Avenue.

DEC. 26

• A man was arrested on a warrant after he was spotted sleeping in a backyard on High Street at 7:31am.

• An unknown suspect stole mail on Avery Lane.

• Someone stole a vehicle’s catalytic converter on Old Adobe Road.

• Three boys reportedly “doorbell ditched” a residence on Lansberry Court at 9:32pm.

DEC. 27

• An unknown suspect let the air out of a vehicle’s tires on Los Gatos Boulevard.

• An office was ransacked on Los Gatos Boulevard.

• Someone stole a wallet from a residence on Callecita.

• A home was burglarized on Pinta Court.

DEC. 28

• A vehicle was burglarized on Roberts Road and Riviera Drive.

• A residence was burglarized on Montclair Road.

• A man was arrested for disorderly conduct and a probation violation on Winchester Boulevard and Albright Way at 10:17am.

• A caller reported they heard a “bomb” go off with a “big light flash” on Altura Vista at 10:37pm.

DEC. 29

• A man reportedly urinated in front of a business on N. Santa Cruz Avenue at 11:02am.

• A man asked a caller if they wanted to buy some cocaine on Riviera Drive at 4:28pm.

• A residence was burglarized on Belvue Drive.

• A woman was arrested for disorderly conduct on the 100 block of S. Santa Cruz Avenue at 8:46pm.

National Weather Service

BAY

DEC. 30

• A home was burglarized on Kavin Lane.

• A man was arrested for being in possession of unlawful paraphernalia on the 15300 block of Los Gatos Boulevard at 10:15pm.

DEC. 31

• A home was burglarized on Littlefield Lane.

• A man was arrested for being in possession of a controlled substance on Los Gatos Boulevard and Samaritan Drive at 2:03am.

Information is compiled from public records released by the Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department.

AREA

Weather , from page 1

IS UNDER FLOOD WATCH

A meteorologist shared the following observations in the forecast about the coming storm: "To put it simply, this will likely be one of the most impactful systems on a widespread scale that this meteorologist has seen in a long while. The impacts will include widespread flooding, roads washing out, hillside collapsing, trees down (potentially full groves), widespread power outages, immediate disruption to commerce, and the worst of all, likely loss of human life. This is truly a brutal system that we are looking at and needs to be taken seriously."

The forecast includes an updated threat matrix it classifies as "extreme risk" for conditions expected Wednesday and Thursday, including increased wind gusts, a flood watch that now includes the entire Bay Area and an added forecast Friday through Sunday after the big storm for roughly 1-2 inches of rain in most areas.

Wednesday through Thursday morning will be the worst of the storm, with heavy rain and strong winds with gusts of 35-55 mph in most areas, with stronger gusts at higher elevations.

The flood watch will be in effect from Wednesday morning through Thursday afternoon, with rain amounts expected from 2-4 inches in the valleys, 3-6 inches in the foothills and 8-10 inches in the coastal mountains.

For the latest forecast updates, visit weather.gov/bayarea.

Santa Clara County residents can get free filled sandbags from sandbag

sites operated by the Valley Water ahead of more heavy rainfall.

Heavy winter rainfall can cause flooding in minutes but homeowners can use sandbags to prevent or reduce damage from floodwater or debris. The sandbags are available from November through April at five Valley Water sites.

Free sandbags from the Town of Los Gatos are also available at the Balzer Field Parking Lot, 41 Miles Ave.

Valley Water sandbag guidelines say it's most effective to put a tarp between a structure and sandbags to keep floodwater from seeping between the housing siding and foundation sills.

Baffle boards should be used to seal foundation vents, windows, doorways and garage doorways. Baffle boards should overlap the window, door or vent they are covering by a few inches.

At the five Valley Water sandbag sites scattered throughout the county, residents can pick up free filled sandbags or fill their own with bags and sand the district has provided.

There are also 20 city and county public works yards with bags and sand that residents can fill themselves. A shovel and someone to help lift the sandbags is recommended since they are heavy.

Some sites may require proof of residency. More information and site locations can be found at valleywater.org/ flooding-safety/flood-ready/sandbags.

The impacts will include widespread flooding, roads washing out, hillsides collapsing, trees down (potentially full groves), widespread power outages, immediate disruption to commerce, and the worst of all, likely loss of human life.

LOCAL SCENE

TIBETAN SCHOLAR TO CREATE SAND MANDALA IN LOS GATOS

Breathe Together Yoga, 14107-H Winchester Blvd. in Los Gatos, will host the Venerable Losang Samten as he creates a Tibetan Sand Mandala in the studio’s lobby from Jan. 7-10.

A Tibetan Sand Mandala is a two-dimensional image composed of bright colored sand in various geometrical images, and painted over several days.

“When Breathe first opened in 2010, the late Venerable Ngawang Chojor was here and blessed the space with a sand mandala. The process is very detailed and fascinating to watch,” said Breathe Together studio owner and co-founder Jennifer Prugh. “To see beauty created in such an intricate and patient manner, and then destroyed is a reminder about how precious our time is. Tibetan teachings are very applicable to our modern existence.”

The schedule of free events is as follows, and the public is welcome to attend:

• An opening ceremony takes place Jan. 7 from 10:30-11:30am

• Daily viewing from 9am-4pm

• Closing ceremony on Jan. 10 from 4-4:45pm

The events will also be livestreamed. A link will be available from the event page at breathetogetheryoga.com.

In 1988, Samten came to the U.S. as instructed by the 14th Dalai Lama, to demonstrate the meditative art of sand painting. This was the first time a Tibetan mandala was shown in the west.

Since then, he has created sand mandalas at art museums such as Chicago Field Museum and Philadelphia Museum of Art and universities like Harvard and Columbia. He is currently Spiritual director of the Tibetan Buddhist Center of Philadelphia, Chenrezig Tibetan Buddhist Center of Middletown, Conn., Chenrezig Cultural Center of El Paso, Texas, and a frequent visitor and teacher in Lake Tahoe and Chico, as well as in Canada.

He travels extensively, sharing his knowledge of Buddhist philosophy and meditation, as well as his skill in Tibetan ritual arts.

SUSTAINABILITY SPEAKER SERIES BEGINS

JAN.

11

The Los Gatos Department of Public Works and the Los Gatos Library have joined forces for a speaker series highlighting sustainability through a lens of equity and resiliency.

The series will kick off on Jan. 11 at 5pm at the library, 100 Villa Ave., with Kristy Drutman, founder of Browngirl Green. Drutman will discuss the power of storytelling for environmental action and community empowerment.

Those who require reasonable accommodations in order to participate in this series, including translation services, are asked to contact the Los Gatos Library at library@losgatosca. gov or 408.354.6891.

This series is made possible by the California Sustainable Libraries grant. ➝ losgatosca.gov/2408/Events.

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA EXHIBIT ARRIVES IN SARATOGA

Wreaths Across America (WAA) coordinated 596 truckloads of wreaths to all 50 states and beyond, delivering to 3,702 locations a total of 2.7 million sponsored veterans’ wreaths on Dec. 17.

WAA announced that its Mobile Education Exhibit will make several stops in California, including in Saratoga, over the next three months to honor those who served and welcome home Vietnam veterans.

The Santa Clara Chapter, Daughters

of the American Revolution will host a local stop for the WAA Mobile Education Exhibit national tour on Jan. 28 at 13777 Fruitvale Ave. from 10am–4pm.

“The mission of Wreaths Across America is to Remember the fallen, Honor those who have served and their families, and teach the next generation the value of freedom,” Executive Director Karen Worcester said. “The Mobile Education Exhibit provides the unique opportunity for communities to come together and share the stories of those who served and sacrificed. Through our partnership with the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration, the Exhibit also serves as an official ‘Welcome Home’ location for our nation’s Vietnam Veterans.”

➝ wreathsacrossamerica.org/mee.

INTRICATE Breathe Together Yoga will host the Venerable Losang Samten, who will create a Tibetan Sand Mandala from Jan. 7-10.

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LOS GATOS HAS PIVOTAL MONTH AHEAD

Beset by flu, ’Cats back on track

Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor

The Los Gatos High wrestling team is returning to full strength just in time for some key tournaments and the Santa Clara Valley Athletic League season.

Virtually the entire Wildcats’ roster was wiped out by the flu for the last couple of weeks of 2022, reducing the wrestling room to a skeleton crew. However, as coach Greg Varela pointed out, if sickness was going to sweep aside the entire team, the timing was beneficial.

“We’d rather have this happen during Christmas break than during the four weeks leading up to State,” he said.

Los Gatos is ranked eighth in the state, second highest among all Central Coast Section teams behind Gilroy which is fourth. The Wildcats have six wrestlers ranked among the state’s top 15 in their respective weight classes, including EJ Parco (second at 145 pounds), Antonio Rodriguez (fifth at 113), Timmy Murabito (eighth at 138), Dylan Pile (eighth at 160), Anthony Ramirez (11th at 152), and Oleksandr Nyzhnyk (13th at 195).

Pile, a sophomore, is the comeback story of the year. He missed his entire freshman season due to a knee injury, but has returned showing none the worse for wear. After an opening-round bye, Pile went 7-1 in the 165-pound division to place third in the Reno Tournament of Champions Dec. 16-18.

During Pile’s run, he beat Gilroy’s Micah Porter 2-0 and avenged a loss to Sunnyside’s Michael Avelar in the thirdplace match by a 6-3 score. Pile won several close decisions, a testament to his ability to come through when it matters the most.

Varela said the best from Pile is yet to come, as Pile only started going live in late August.

“Dylan is healthy, strong and improving every match,” Varela said. “He does everything asked of him and is a coach’s dream. He’s got a great attitude when it comes to training and he’s hit the ground running. The best thing is he’s getting results and is still trying to figure out his style because after a year layoff it takes a while to get back into it. But he’s figuring it out.”

Parco, a junior, will be one of the five or six Los Gatos wrestlers competing in the Doc Buchanan Invitational—widely

regarded as the one of the top 3 tournaments in the nation—Jan. 6-7 at Clovis High. Parco won Reno TOC in the 144-pound weight class and the Doc Buchanan will be just as tough if not tougher.

Parco has moved up one weight class after winning the Central Coast Section Championships at 138 last year, eventually taking fifth at State.

“EJ is better all around and worked on his overall game,” Varela said. “He’s always been good on top, but he’s added a couple of more things which makes his top game more versatile and not as predictable. And on his feet, he wasn’t as aggressive or as offensive as he is now. Now he’s getting more takedowns which comes from all the work and time he put in the off-season. That kid gets extra workouts in everyday.”

In Rodriguez, the future has arrived. The freshman sensation had a tremendous showing in Reno, taking third place at 113 pounds. After an opening-round bye, Rodriguez won a pair of close decisions, 9-8 and 7-5, then won his next two matches decisively, 5-0 and 12-0.

A 9-3 loss in the quarterfinals to Walnut’s Ronnie Ramirez was expected given Ramirez is the state’s top-ranked wrestler at 113 and older. However, Ro-

driguez responded in impressive fashion with two consecutive decision victories, including a 3-0 win in the third-place match over Poway’s Edwin Sierra, who is ranked sixth at 113.

Varela said even in defeat, Rodriguez’s match with Ramirez proved beneficial in many ways.

“We looked at it as an opportunity to go against the No. 1 seed,” Varela said. “Win or lose, we have the opportunity to wrestle the best. He took it that way and he understood it wasn’t an opportunity to waste or squander. And he made the most of it. Antonio had wrestled Ronnie in April and the kid completely destroyed us. Antonio came back in this match and yes he lost, but you really saw the progression. Ronnie handled us pretty good, but we did close the gap. We improved and did a lot of things better that we weren’t able to do last time. And beating Sierra was a real measuring stick against one of the state’s best. And he beat [Gage] Singleton the second time by a wider score.”

Varela is particularly excited for this year’s league season, which has a different format. In addition to the traditional two-team duel, there will be dates in which anywhere from four to all eight teams will be at the same site dueling. The latter happens at Los Gatos on Jan. 31, when the Wildcats duel Palo Alto at 4:30pm, Wilcox at 6 and Mountain View at 7:30.

The other duel is Lynbrook-Mountain View at 6.

“We’re super pumped and excited,” Varela said. “Having these tri-duels puts more people in the stands and makes it more of an event, so we’re looking forward to these big duels.”

After the Jan. 31 tri-duel, Los Gatos takes on Fremont High of Sunnyvale the very next day at Stanford University in what will likely decide the league championship. It’s a brutal turnaround but Varela wouldn’t have it any other way.

“I like challenging these kids and these kids like to be challenged,” he said. “I like doing things like this. It’s kind of another thing to get everyone going because we have different wrestlers at different levels. Everyone gets pumped for three-match duels because everyone’s points count, even if you lose your individual match. It gets everyone motivated and working a little harder from top to bottom in building more of that team atmosphere.”

THE WRESTLERS EJ Parco, Dylan Pile and Antonio Rodriguez have helped lead Los Gatos High to the No. 8 ranking in the state. The trio should all be in action in the prestigious Doc Buchanan Invitational Jan. 6-7.

Jonathan Natividad

ROUNDUP: LOS GATOS HOOPS ENTER LEAGUE PLAY

Boys 8-4 and girls 7-3 after tourneys

Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor

The Los Gatos High boys and girls basketball teams completed 2022 with wins in their respective tournaments. Now it’s on to league play.

The boys team earned an impressive 66-54 win over Mountain View in the third-place game of the Aptos/Santa Cruz Warriors Invitational on Dec. 29. All-tournament selection Max Houghton scored 20 points on 7-of10 shooting, and Scotty Brennan and Ronan Chinmulgund had 15 each in the comeback victory.

Los Gatos (8-4), which begins Santa Clara Valley Athletic League De Anza Division play at Gunn High (9-1) on Jan. 4, trailed Mountain View 34-28 at halftime before a dominant second half, outscoring the Spartans 21-12 in the third and 17-8 in the fourth to win going away.

Houghton and Chinmulgund combined for six 3-pointers, while Brennan and Nolan Koch had seven rebounds each. Koch, a 6-foot-4 junior post, had a tremendous tournament, scoring a team-high 18 points and grabbing eight rebounds in a 61-51 win over Soquel in the opening round.

The Wildcats built a 10-point lead at halftime on the strength of a 23-10 second quarter. Coach Nick Ward was able to unload his bench in the game, as 13 players got in with nine scoring. Brennan had 11 in the victory. Koch led the way in the next game, a 51-44 loss to a strong St. Mary’s of Stockton team.

Houghton had 12 in a game that was tied 21-21 at halftime. However, St. Mary’s (11-3) pulled away in the second half in a contest that was played at Kaiser Permanente Arena in Santa Cruz.

GIRLS

After a painful opening-round loss to Christopher High, Los Gatos finished strong in the John Araujo Memorial Holiday Tournament at Del Mar High.

Behind an absolutely spectacular performance from Nicole Steiner, the

Wildcats (7-3) beat Leland 51-42 in the consolation championship game on Dec. 30. Steiner, a 6-foot sophomore post, scored a career-high 38 points on an ultra-efficient 18-of-23 shooting and had 23 rebounds, including 11 offensive.

Steiner also had 26 points and 10 rebounds in a 57-31 win over Westmont which vaulted Los Gatos into the consolation title contest. Claire Galbo had 11 as the Wildcats roared out to a 22-2 lead after the first quarter. In three games, Steiner totaled 75 points and 44 rebounds to earn a spot on the all-tournament team.

The Wildcats trailed Leland by five points at halftime before going on an 18-2 third-quarter blitz to win going away. The strong finish was a complete reversal from the Christopher game, which saw the Wildcats lose 39-36 despite entering the fourth quarter with a 33-23 lead.

Los Gatos begins SCVAL De Anza Division play at home against Homestead on Jan. 3.

UP STRONG Nicole Steiner, seen here against Christopher High in the opening round of the John Araujo Memorial Holiday Tournament on Dec. 28, earned all-tournament honors by totaling 75 points and 44 rebounds in three games.

TO THE MAX Max Houghton, seen here in action earlier this season, earned all-tournament honors after leading the Wildcats to a 66-54 win over Mountain View in the third-place game in the Aptos/SC Warriors NorCal Invitational on Dec. 29.

Jonathan Natividad File photo

Coffee consistency

New owner of downtown’s Great Bear Coffee plans to maintain the vibe

Drew Penner, Reporter

Last year, after Abdy Mirzadegan, 64, sold Chip Test Solutions, the semiconductor lab he started in 2009, he was ready for a change of pace.

But people shouldn’t expect to see too many modulations at 19 N. Santa Cruz Ave., where Great Bear Coffee, the business he purchased and is running with his wife, 53-year-old De Anna, is located

“Our kids used to go to Great Bear when they were in high school and college,” De Anna said. “We’re committed to keeping the same great coffee.”

While De Anna is from nearby Willow Glen, Abdy used to live in Saratoga.

Their four kids went to Saratoga Middle School and High School, and Abdy notes a couple of them even played on the Los Gatos United soccer team.

“My daughter did a lot of her homework and papers and her resume here,” Abdy said, looking out over the packed holiday crowd that kept him racing around all day. “When I told her that I’m considering buying this place she was very happy. She said, ‘Dad, don’t make any changes.’ So I said, ‘Qualify changes. Am I allowed to paint the walls?’”

This explains why renovations have been going on for months, yet on the inside things seem scarcely any different.

That’s by design, Abdy emphasizes.

“I just like the vibe of this place,” he said. “It’s just an iconic spot. I wasn’t interested in having something similar to a Starbucks. I wanted to have something independent, where I could continue the trend—but put my own mark on it.”

That includes a completely redesigned bathroom. Work on the floors has been continuing.

“There haven’t been any renova-

tions in 31 years,” De Anna said. “We changed the layout.”

But not by much. Essentially, they moved the bookshelves and got rid of a dirty-dish counter.

Abdy pledges customers will be able to continue to sense the independent ethos of the place.

“I hope to be able to continue serving the community,” he said, commending the previous owner for a job well done. “The hope is just to keep doing what we’re doing, make incremental changes, serve better-quality food, and listen to the community.”

De Anna notes they’re been canvassing for feedback.

“We’re adding salads and sandwiches, yogurt parfait, overnight oats,” she said, “—and then introducing some specials.”

Abdy wants to start after-hours programming.

“We’re considering having ‘paint nights,’” he said. “We’d like to have events over here where people can

come and have a book club—or any kind of a club meeting. I can leave a couple baristas here and continue serving food and drinks.”

They’re even mulling timing their closing hours with events at the newly reopened Los Gatos Theater.

“This is one of the best decisions I’ve made,” Abdy says about the big purchase. “I’m very happy with it. I call this enjoyable retirement.”

Unfortunately, De Anna can’t say the same thing quite yet.

While she’s an integral part of the Great Bear operation, she still has her hands full with McNeal Enterprises, Inc., the medical equipment company founded by her father she’s been running for two decades.

But that only helps underscore the positive aspects of the food and beverage world, she adds.

“It’s completely different than working in high-tech,” she said. “It’s a fun, energizing feeling.”

But the deal almost didn’t happen.

In fact, a sale fell through to two other buyers before their offer was selected.

Abdy explains the previous owner originally wanted someone with restaurant experience to take over. But he says they won’t let customers down.

They’ll continue to roast twice a week so that the coffee—specialized blends and single-origin beans from places such as Indonesia, Ethiopia, South America and Mexico—is always fresh.

“We have different roasts,” he said. “We have very specialized blends. The blends seem to be more popular nowadays than the single-origin.”

And they’ll be trying new techniques, too.

“We actually just hired a new barista—she has done pour-overs before,” Abdy said. “I want to maybe offer that to our customers in the future.”

De Anna says one of the coolest parts of the Christmas season was seeing all the out-of-towners visit and share how they make a point of visiting Great Bear each time.

In January, they will be showing digital photography of iconic Los Gatos locations. February will have a Black History Month focus in partnership with a nonprofit. And for March they’re inviting Persian artists to showcase as part of Persian New Year (email deanna@gbcoffees.com if interested).

“We really want to be the community meeting place,” she said. “That’s our mission and focus.”

CONTINUE THE TRADITION

Last year, Abdy Mirzadegan sold the company he founded and bought Great Bear Coffee in downtown Los Gatos. He says he and his wife are committed to maintaining the current atmosphere and business operations.

Drew Penner/Los Gatan

DJS LAUNCH NEW MUSIC SERIES AT CHARLEY’S LG

Drew Penner, Reporter

It was midday on Tuesday and Santa Cruz resident Jordan Lipaz, 27, the co-founder of Lit n’ Loud Productions, was once again scrutinizing the logo to be printed on unique merchandise for an upcoming show he’s organizing in Los Gatos.

Lipaz—aka Lapositive—had been going back-and-forth with his designer for days, trying to get the image to look just right.

“We’ve gone through like 10 iterations of this logo over the past few weeks,” he said. “He’s doing a limited-edition first run.”

It’s all part of the lead-up to the Jan. 13 launch of Late Night Sessions, dubbed “a new Bay Area exclusive event,” meant to highlight a variety of DJ talent from around the region—and beyond—amid the posh and creative décor of Charley’s LG’s second-floor auspices.

“It’s definitely going to be a lot of original music,” Lipaz says of the inaugural bill. “Every month it’s going to be a different line-up.”

In addition to the free parking and quality sound system (they may use the new in-house speakers, or perhaps bring along their own Funktion-Ones), organizers are promising a mix of hiphop, EDM, bass music, burlesque and fire-dancing.

The event is geared towards a young-

er crowd, but everyone 21-plus is welcome to attend.

“Anybody who wants to come to enjoy the event—or who wants to come to share what they do is welcome to join us,” he said. “We’re going to be having lights and lasers…It’s definitely going to be a showcase of a divergent lineup—with a lot of diversity between the acts.”

That includes Dyligent, of Los Gatos, Gerastic, a Campbell resident, Khariszma, Neumonic and DISSØLV.

Lipaz says DISSØLV, from Santa Cruz, are starting to make waves internationally.

“They’re really talented,” he said of the world-bass duo. “They’re being flown to Guatemala to play music festivals.”

The Alchemists Temple, who performed as part of Euphonic Santa Cruz in August, are set to provide the burlesque performance art.

“It’s going to be a very high-vibrational multi-genre electronic music event,” Lipaz said. “I’ll be doing a live performance with Ableton (music software), trumpet and singing.”

Just back from performing at the Coalesce New Years festival in the desert, Nick “Neumonic” Neumann, a 26-year-old drum n’ bass, UK garage and dubstep artist who’s been living in Santa Cruz for the past eight years, says he was planning on attending the event even before he was booked to play.

CALENDAR

For more events, visit the online calendar at losgatan.com/events-calendar

MYSTERY LOVER’S BOOK CLUB

The Los Gatos Library’s Mystery Lover’s Book Club meets the first Wednesday of every month. The next meeting is Jan. 4 at 5pm in person and on Zoom. The club will discuss “The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle” by Stuart Turton. ➝ wklys.us/Bau-.

TIBETAN SAND MANDALA

Breathe Together Yoga, 14107-H, Winchester Blvd. in Los Gatos, will host the Venerable Losang Samten as he creates a Tibetan Sand Mandala in the studio’s lobby from Jan. 7-10. An opening ceremony takes place Jan. 7 from 10:30-11:30am, with daily viewing from 9am-4pm. The closing ceremony will be Jan. 10 from 4-4:45pm The events will also be livestreamed. ➝ breathetogetheryoga.com.

SAN JOSE SCAVENGER BOOK SIGNING

Meet Cassie Kifer, the author of the new book, "San Jose Scavenger: The Ultimate Search for San Jose's Hidden Treasures,” at Barnes & Noble, 5353 Almaden Expressway in San Jose, on Jan. 7 from noon to 3pm. In “San Jose Scavenger,” follow the clues that lead to more than 300 places, exploring 20 neighborhoods in every corner of Santa Clara County, from San Jose up to Palo Alto and down to Gilroy. ➝ wklys.us/kifersigning.

TIERRA FIRMA ART EXHIBIT

New Museum Los Gatos presents “Terra Firma,” an art exhibition about our relationship to the land, on view through March 19. “Terra Firma,” a group show organized by guest curator Marianne K. McGrath, brings together work by 15 artists, working in diverse media including drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, installation and sound.

➝ numulosgatos.org.

LIVE JAZZ MUSIC

Live jazz performances at the Tasting House, 368 Village Lane, take place Fridays and Saturdays from 6-9pm, and Sundays from 11am-2pm.

ENTERTAINMENT AT GARDINO’S

Gardino’s, 51 N. Santa Cruz Ave., features entertainment four days a week.

➝ bit.ly/3OSvPHS.

ONGOING

Los Gatos Farmers Market

The Los Gatos Certified Farmers’ Market offers seasonal fruits and vegetables from Santa Clara County year-round. More than 40 local farmers and food producers sell their wares Sundays from 9am to 1pm at Town Park Plaza on Main Street and N. Santa Cruz Avenue.

➝ cafarmersmkts.com/losgatosfarmers-market.

“They’ve been wanting to do a show there for awhile,” he said. “I was just going to go to support.”

He says it’s exciting to get to test out a new venue, since Santa Cruz has limited options for this type of music.

“The genres are going to be ranging,” he said. “I think anyone would have a good time.”

Lipaz, a previous Los Gatos hills resident, is already working to line up artists

from San Francisco, Oakland and Monterey for future months.

But this show will be a special one for him, since he’s planning on debuting some tracks from the album he’s getting ready to drop later this year.

Late Night Sessions: A New Bay Area

Exclusive Event - Friday, Jan. 13 at Charley’s LG. 15 N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos. Tickets for sale at the door. Starts at 8pm. $10.

GOOD TIMES Neumonic, a Santa Cruz resident, says he’s excited to participate in the inaugural Late Night Sessions DJ event at Charley’s LG in Los Gatos.

REAL ESTATE

HOME OF THE WEEK

Ken Blackwell

January 7, 1951 - November 15, 2022

We are deeply saddened to announce the sudden passing of Ken Blackwell, long time resident of the SF Bay Area. Ken was a dearly beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, cousin, Godfather and friend. Ken never met a stranger, he only met new friends. Ken was known for his genuine infectious smile and quick, easygoing sense of humor.

A natural athlete, Ken’s strongest sport was baseball where he played catcher and shortstop. Ken was signed by the NY Mets and scouted by the Cincinnati Reds. Ken was an accomplished runner competing in numerous marathons,10k and 5k races. He loved the outdoors, climbed Mt. Whitney and adored the beach. Ken was an avid hockey fan and proud to be a part of the Bossy family of professional and Olympic hockey players. Ken could quote any player's stats from Gordie Howe to present players. A devoted fan of the San Jose Sharks, the San Francisco Giants and against his better judgment, a steadfast fan of the Miami Dolphins.

Ken graduated in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science in mathematics, in which he was a whiz. Ken would happily spend hours doing crossword puzzles and brain teaser games. Ken's Thanksgiving movie was "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly" viewed so many times that his family and friends were able to voice all of the spoken parts and mimic the musical tunes. He could

Ken was the ultimate showman and the best server on the Los Gatos restaurant scene, regaling loyal customers with stories of his travels and countless jokes. He especially enjoyed recounting the time he spent in Florida -- running marathons, being a missionary in Ecuador, and working in an orchard picking peaches. He was passionate about his telling and retelling of “THE STORY” of how he met and married his wife of 30 years while on a boat in the Florida Keys having known her for less than a month prior to their elopement.

Ken is survived by his wife, Dari and his two sons Race and Daniel, both full time students. His brother Ron, sisterin-law Olga, his niece Judy Morrisey (Kevin) and nephews Brad Blackwell (Tammy) and Tim Blackwell (Amy). Ken is predeceased by his parents Eddie and Judy (Bossy).

Ken rarely did anything in a conventional way and that was one of his most endearing qualities. Ken’s passing leaves a void of collective pain that cannot easily be expressed. We hold dear our memories of Ken and are thankful and blessed that he was one of the best parts of our lives.

Memorial and celebration of Ken's life will be held beginning at 2pm throughout the day and evening on his birthday of January 7, 2023 at his residence in Los Gatos. Please rsvp attendance intentions to 408-412-8365.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to his family’s online gofundme fundraiser: https://www. gofundme.com/f/ken-kenny-blackwell-burial-and-final-expenses?qid=568e7de26fccaf7755a89f94d069445e

RANCH ON THE HILLS

This Los Gatos ranch estate sits on eight acres with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and hills.

Located at 17210 Fawndale Road, the 3,900-square-foot home, designed by architect Frank Laulainen, includes five bedrooms and four bathrooms. The first level main suite includes dual bathroom areas, a walk-in closet, separate den/study and floor-to-ceiling windows. The upper level offers

four corner bedrooms, two full baths, a laundry room and wrap-around deck.

The main level family room, kitchen/breakfast and dining rooms all face the pool with three sliding doors.

The property also includes a guest house, tennis court, paddocks and more.

The home, built in 1963, is listed at $3,995,000 by Coldwell Banker Realty. For information, visit bit.ly/3TXuzGl.

INSIDE Floor-to-ceiling windows are a staple of the home.

(and would) quote Monty Python and Fawlty Towers at the drop of a hat.

Coldwell Banker Realty

FAWNDALE ROAD The main family room looks out to the pool.

Coldwell Banker Realty

SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM IN LOS GATOS

The team that launched the original Los Gatos Weekly has come together once again to give the town the quality of journalism it needs.

News about local people, school sports and vital community issues will fill the pages of thislocal publication –and a live web site.

Los Gatos deserves real reporting.

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Serenity Polizzi 408.200.1323 Eric Bocanegra 408.200.1309

Looking to Move from the Bay Area?

Housing too expensive here? Now with working in place, you can live where you want for much less and keep your job. Let me nd you a real estate broker out of the area or out of state. I will do the leg work. I will also give you a $100 gift certi cate when you purchase through my referral!

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