Los Gatan 5-31-2023

SENIOR SERVICES COMMISSION PREPARES NEW REPORT FOR COUNCIL

Maureen Heath

selected for Seniors of Distinction Award

Drew Penner, Reporter

At the regularly scheduled May 23 Community Health and Senior Services Commission, members commended the efforts of organizers of a recent seniors fair, where upwards of 200 people attended and plenty of useful information was handed out about service providers.

Lydia Norcia, who was appointed in January, said organizations were spread out in a circle.

“There were 90 providers,” she said. “It was very, very positive and very, very rewarding.”

The meeting, held at the offices of the Chamber of Commerce, occurred at a formative time for senior services in Los Gatos.

After delivering a well-received report to Council, and winning increased support for initiatives meant to improve the lives of older adults in town, officials are regrouping—behind the scenes—as they prepare for the next push.

For example, Tom Picraux, formerly the chair of the Senior Services Committee—who was the point person reporting to Council on the comprehensive report earlier this year—sat off to the side, listening intently.

➝ Commission, 8

ASSISTANT TOWN MANAGER EXCITED FOR SILICON VALLEY RETURN

Katy Nomura welcomed to Los Gatos

Drew Penner, Reporter

After heading to SoCal about a year ago, following a decade in the Cupertino city manager’s office, Katy Nomura is returning to Silicon Valley, to fill the vacancy left by Los Gatos’ former Assistant Town Manager Arn Andrews’ departure.

She’s set to start work in the community—that’s just a hop, skip and a jump from her old employer—on Monday.

“It is a blessing to be welcomed to such a charming Town, where I formed many fond childhood memories,” Nomura said in a release. “I am excited for the agility and hightouch nature of a smaller juris➝ Assistant, 8

RED CROSS HONORS RESIDENT Earlier this year, Bruce Richardson of Los Gatos saved the life of a man who had collapsed in a parking lot due to cardiac arrest. For his lifesaving action, Richardson received the American Red Cross Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action in a ceremony in San Jose on May 25.

On Feb. 6, Richardson (left), shown here with Hanna Malak, Regional CEO for the Red Cross Northern California Coastal Region, saw a man collapsing on the parking lot of an auto parts shop in Los Gatos and immediately sprang to action. The individual in distress was a long-term employee of the shop and was going into cardiac arrest. Richardson performed CPR on the unresponsive man while his coworker called 911 and assisted the man until the first responders arrived. Richardson worked as a national ski patrolman for 15 years. As part of his professional training, he learned CPR and advanced first aid.

jolly 10 k run p6 : joe kapp’s legacy p10 : upcoming events p12 : ny times crossword puzzle p17

Virginia and Albert Becker/American Red Cross

This elegant 4 bedroom and 3 full bathroom home is situated in the beautiful La Rinconada Country Club Neighborhood. Formal entry. Living room with gas fireplace and bay window. Formal dining room with trey ceilings and kitchen pass through. Chef’s kitchen with white shaker cabinets, stainless steel appliances, gas cooktop, double ovens, center island with breakfast bar, and eatin area. Kitchen/family room combination with vaulted ceiling, gas fireplace, and an abundance of natural light. Large primary suite with sitting area, double sinks, large soaking tub, stall shower, and large walk-in closet. Three additional spacious bedrooms, one with an en-suite bathroom. Hall bathrooms with custom vanity and large stall shower. Laundry room with wash basin and built-in cabinetry. Hardwood floors throughout most of the home. Entertainer’s backyard with multiple sitting areas, pool and spa, grass area, and mature landscaping.

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COMMUNITY MEMORIAL HELD THREE YEARS AFTER DEATH OF GEORGE FLOYD

Michael Popoola, who currently lives in Morgan Hill but used to live along Blossom Hill Road, arrived in Town Plaza Park, May 25, for a community memorial three years after the death of George Floyd.

The volunteer with social justice nonprofit AWỌ Center said he was excited to get to trade stories with other community members about how the death of the Black man in Minneapolis ultimately ended up impacting their lives.

“It’s just important to connect with people, share experiences, and learn from other people, as well,” he said. “I’m looking forward to hearing from other folks and sharing my experience from over the last 2-3 years.”

Event organizer Folake Phillips, founder and executive director of AWỌ Center, took a break from setting up to explain the purpose of the gathering.

“I think marches are one thing, and I support them,” she said. “You get people organized and galvanized to take action—that’s what they do.”

But at this point, she said, it’s important to continue to find ways to

incorporate ideals into lasting policy changes.

That’s why she arranged for Sharika Gregory, a motivational speaker from Oakland, to facilitate a healing circle.

“She’s also going to be empowering people to take the next step in their lives,” she said. “It’s very important that Los Gatos has that kind of space where people can come together and feel welcome.”

Phillips says she’s been trying to find constructive ways to combat problems with racism that have cropped up in town, such as the swastikas that were discovered at multiple locations in Los Gatos, in 2021.

She says she was personally very inspired by the story of George Floyd’s life.

“His life was taken right when he was starting to do something good and impact people,” she said. “He was starting to do a lot of work in his community.”

Community member Brian Smith donated coffee, cream and sugar.

Orisha priestess Madonna Camel, of Santa Cruz County, set up a sunflower shrine to Floyd.

Former Planning Commissioner Jeffrey Suzuki, a Los Gatos Anti-Racism Coalition member, and Jahmal C. Williams, a San Jose racial justice advocate, were among the attendees who spoke during the event.

Organizers estimated around 4045 people participated.

“People were very thankful and appreciative,” said Phillips after the event. “Our objective is to bridge gaps and make sure that dialogue is happening.”

One of the most unique moments came when Gregory handed out miniature scrolls on which they could write a “Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of Self.”

Phillips said it was nice to see people taking the commitment exercise seriously.

“I know that I’m not alone in the belief that we have to have this conversation to move forward in a better way, to find different ways of doing things—rather than being in cultural silos,” she said. “It takes one organization at a time, or one person at a time.”

Drew Penner, Reporter

SHARING STORIES Community members gathered in Town Plaza Park May 25 for a memorial event three years after the death of George Floyd.

Courtesy of Folake Phillips

POLICE BLOTTER

MAY 21

• A man was reportedly “yelling at cars” on Los Gatos Boulevard and Shannon Road at 9:14am.

• A vehicle was reportedly burglarized on Greenwood Road.

• A vehicle was reported stolen on Kavin Lane.

MAY 22

• A vehicle was reportedly burglarized on Winchester Circle and on N. Santa Cruz Avenue.

MAY 23

• A man was reported for being drunk in public on N. Santa Cruz Avenue at 9:57am.

• A home was reportedly burglarized on Vineland Avenue.

• A group of teens were reported for being “loud” on Santa Rosa Drive at 10:09pm.

MAY 24

• A bike was reported stolen on Saratoga Los Gatos Road.

• A vehicle was reported stolen on Winchester Boulevard.

• A debit card was reported stolen on Los Gatos Boulevard.

MAY 25

• A business was reportedly burglarized on N. Santa Cruz Avenue.

• A driver was reportedly honking and “screaming at other vehicles” on W. Main Street and N. Santa Cruz Avenue at 4:21pm.

• A man reportedly stepped out into the roadway “without looking” on Los Gatos Saratoga Road and University Avenue at 6:51pm. The caller said he was “acting high.”

MAY 26

• A wallet was reported stolen from an unlocked vehicle parked on Los Gatos Boulevard.

• An unknown suspect reportedly stole registration and an insurance card from a vehicle parked on Golf Links Drive.

• A caller reported 20 to 40 youth at Bachman Park at 8:42pm.

• A man walking in the middle of the roadway on Los Gatos Boulevard and Loma Alta Drive was reportedly “out of it” and “flipped off” a driver at 8:42pm.

• A caller reported that a group of children were “playing in carts out front and pushing each other down the ramps” on N. Santa Cruz Avenue at 9:49pm.

• A caller reported they could hear a “boombox going through his house” on Almendra Avenue at 9:51pm.

MAY 27

• An unknown suspect reportedly stole a vehicle’s license plate on Winchester Boulevard and replaced it with a stolen plate.

• A bike was reported stolen on Blossom Hill Road.

• A man was arrested for disorderly conduct on the 400 block of N. Santa Cruz Avenue at 6:03pm.

• A woman was arrested for violating the town’s social host ordinance on Chester Street at 11:38pm.

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

FIGHTING FENTANYL: MOTHER HONORS SON WITH JOLLY10K RUN

Fundraiser to include talks by firefighter, people in recovery

Drew Penner, Reporter

Jasmine Gentry has a smile that’s so infectious it can lift your spirits even on a bad day.

It hurts to think that the 50-year-old comic book store office manager could have lost a child to fentanyl. But that’s what happened—her 22-year-old son

Jolly Jones died accidentally while trying to kick his addiction to the opioid.

“My son was the funniest guy I’ve ever met,” she said, from her downstairs perch in the Bronze Age Bat Cave. “He made friends everywhere he went. He was always smiling and laughing.”

In his honor, Gentry is organizing the second Jolly10K fun run, along the Los Gatos Creek Trail, July 22, starting at 8am at Balzer Field parking lot.

But since the main loop is 6.9 miles in total, and the shorter loop is 4 miles, where did she get the “10K” in the name from?

“Jolly10K—that was always like his screen name growing up,” she said, explaining the run is her way of holding onto her boy, while trying to help others. “When he died, I thought it would be a good way to do something fun in the community and not let my son be forgotten.”

Jones’ childhood began in the hills above Los Gatos.

“I used to carry my son in one of those baby backpacks when I would hike the Los Gatos Creek Trail,” Gentry said. “When he was older we did the trail together.”

Gentry had moved the family to Tracy, and Jones became a football player.

“He got a spinal injury in football which caused him to want painkillers which eventually was why he tried fentanyl,” she said. “His back was deteriorating.”

Doctors suggested surgery, but Jones shut down this option, given the risk he could have ended up paralyzed if something went wrong.

Eventually they stopped prescribing him pain pills, according to Gentry.

To make matters worse, when he was 16, Jones was attacked and stabbed 11 times. His mom says it was over the color of his pants: a pair of red True Religion jeans.

The assailants cracked his skull and he had to be outfitted with a metal plate in his head that caused chronic headaches.

Gentry eventually moved back to the Los Gatos area—on the border of Campbell and San Jose. Her son kept falling further into the grip of addiction and ended up on the streets of San Jose.

He was constantly getting into trouble with the police.

“They’d arrest him and let him out, arrest him and let him out,” she said, of the powerful hold fentanyl ended up having over her son’s life. “He was trying to get off of it.”

Gentry tried to coax her son home, but wasn’t having any luck.

Then, one night, he called her— strung-out, but ready to accept assistance.

“‘It’s bad,’” she remembers him saying. “‘It’s so bad mom.’”

He turned to the faith-based men’s recovery facility called Homes of a Loving Father, and they welcomed him in.

But one day he got caught smoking pot, so they kicked him out.

Another phone call.

Gentry ordered her son to go straight back to the home and ask for a second

chance—to sleep on the doorstep if he had to.

Soon she heard from the manager, who confirmed they’d agreed to allow him back, telling her, “I’d be able to visit him in church on Sunday.”

But he didn’t survive that long.

“It seemed like he was getting better,” she said. “He was making jokes and finally eating something.”

He’d been surrounded by other people for the first couple days.

But on the third day, when fellow guests in the program had been allowed to leave on a weekend pass, tragedy struck.

IN MEMORY Jasmine Gentry of Los Gatos is organizing the Jolly10K run in honor of her son Jolly Jones, who died after complications from fentanyl withdrawal.

“While detoxing or trying to get off of fentanyl you have to be under medical supervision,” she said. “There was somebody with him all the time—except that last night…He was alone.”

On the morning of July 24, she got the call that turned her world upside-down.

“It was a phone call that I’d been fearing for years,” she said. “It always happens to ‘somebody else.’ I used to think, ‘Not my son. It won’t happen to my son.’”

It was as if someone had pressed pause on her life.

“It’s kinda like being in a fog: you’re running on autopilot,” she said. “The world is rushing by and you’re just frozen.”

She believes her son didn’t overdose from a clandestine hit that last night, but from complications while going through the withdrawal process.

Recovery centers frequently urge users not to attempt to kick the habit on their own, as detoxing from opioids can be viciously painful and potentially dangerous.

“They called it an accidental death,” she said, noting the coroner found multiple drugs in his system, including fentanyl. “I knew fentanyl was something he was taking, but I didn’t know what it was.”

Now she’s trying to raise awareness— not just about the toxicity of a single hit, but also the complicated factors involved in helping someone leave the path of addiction behind.

She knows how tough it can be. She herself has been in recovery for 11 years, and has become a mentor to others trying to turn their lives around.

“I’m learning how many people are

continuing to die, or lost nieces and nephews,” she said, adding these stories are what caused her to start the Jolly10K. “It’s also been very healing.”

The inaugural run was a modest affair, but it was one of the highlights of her year.

This time, they’re going to have woodfire pizza, pastries and the Narcan overdose-reversing nasal spray at the event.

The run will start at 8am and goes until 2pm.

Speakers will include a firefighter and people who have overcome addiction; recovery nonprofit Many Paths One Destination has agreed to booth.

Participants get a T-shirt and a ticket for the raffle, which is in support of Homes of a Loving Father.

People who have lost a loved one to fentanyl can email a picture of the person (including their name and age) to jolly10krun@gmail.com for inclusion on the website and a banner to be displayed on the day of the race.

Last year, Paul Marshall and Keoni Freitas took the top prize.

But it isn’t the $100 gift certificate they won that made the day so special, says Gentry. It was the impact—something she can’t wait to replicate this time.

“Hopefully it will open up an environment where people will feel comfortable asking questions,” she said. “If we can open their minds that it’s not just addicts, it’s everyone…maybe they’ll have the conversation—and they’ll be able to save someone.”

To register, or for information, visit jolly10k.com or email jolly10krun@ gmail.com.

CULINARY CINEMAS

MONDAY, JUNE 12TH

$57.50 - ONE NIGHT ONLY!

FILM INSPIRED MENU INCLUDED WITH EACH TICKET!

STARTER: Boston Lettuce Wedge with Zinfandel Vinaigrette, Stilton, Gazillionaire Bacon and Grape Tomatoes

MAIN ENTREE: Shrimp Thermidor - Prawns in a Creamy Sherry Sauce, served on top of Corn and Scallion Mashed Potatoes with Asparagus

COMMUNITY EVENT The Jolly10K fun run returns for the second year.

TICKETS: PRUNEYARDCINEMAS.COM

losgatan.com :

Contributed

NOMURA READIES FOR NEW POSITION

Assistant, from page 1

diction that will allow me to closely engage with the people that I serve.”

The position became available when Andrews took a newly created assistant city manager role in Mountain View, earlier this year.

Teri Black & Co. led the recruitment drive for Los Gatos.

Town Manager Laurel Prevetti said she fielded applications from many qualified candidates.

“Ms. Nomura clearly demonstrated a track record of completing complex policy items for Council consideration,

working with other agencies on challenging issues, and understanding the high customer service expectations for Los Gatos,” she said. “Her technical and soft skills will serve the Town well.”

In Cupertino, Nomura oversaw elements of the city’s sustainability initiatives, legislative affairs, economic development, communications and emergency services.

While there, she fostered relationships with partners to work on drought response and worked to improve the municipality’s Covid-19 response.

Nomura, who holds a master’s degree in Business Administration from Quantic School of Business and Technology, led the City of Long Beach’s sidewalk vending and food truck regulation efforts, facilitated outreach for a Cambodian American Cultural Center study, and pushed for tax reductions for equitable cannabis businesses.

Los Gatos Mayor Maria Ristow said she’s pleased with the hire.

“On behalf of the Council, we are thrilled to welcome Katy Nomura to Los Gatos,” she said.

COMMISSION MULLS FORMING NONPROFIT

Commission, from page 1

Later in the meeting, he would be called upon to explain about the work being done to form a nonprofit that can support whatever policy direction is decided upon.

Los Gatos-Saratoga Community Education and Recreation (LGS Rec) representatives also attended, paying

close attention as the commission discussed a report they’d prepared about their operations.

Commissioners discussed whether it was better to include two separate documents as one file when sending it on to Council.

Staff Liaison Ryan Baker said it

doesn’t really matter as both reports will appear back-to-back in any event.

Commissioner George Rossmann said he felt “they cover a great deal” of information that will be important for the Council to be aware of.

Maureen Heath was also in attendance and was selected for an honor

NEW ASSISTANT TOWN MANAGER

CORRECTION

An error appeared in the May 24 article titled “Mountains offer testing ground for new wildfire prevention philosophy.” The reason a piece of equipment with rubber wheels was selected for vegetation management work was because it put less strain on the landscape.

for her work on seniors issues.

It was clear commissioners felt her contributions had been outstanding, as they unanimously forwarded her name for the 24th annual Seniors of Distinction Awards, which is sponsored by the Terraces of Los Gatos retirement community.

When Picraux spoke, he took his time to walk commissioners through the steps involved in getting the nonprofit up and running.

They’re currently reaching out to people who may want to be involved and getting a handle on what its scope will be, before submitting paperwork to the government for official recognition, hopefully later this summer, he said.

Katy Nomura says she formed many of her favorite childhood memories in Los Gatos.

Courtesy of Town of Los Gatos

MEETING The Community Health and Senior Services Commission met at the Chamber of Commerce offices May 23.

Drew Penner/Los Gatan

SPORTS

JOE KAPP LEAVES A SIZABLE LEGACY

Los Gatos resident influential on, off field

Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor

Longtime Los Gatos resident Joe Kapp, who played quarterback at Cal and led the Minnesota Vikings to the Super Bowl, died May 8. He was 85.

Multiple media reports confirmed Kapp’s death came after a long battle with dementia. A private service will be held at Cal (UC Berkeley) on June 11.

Kapp had a decorated career, and has the distinction of being the only quarterback to lead teams to a Rose Bowl, Grey Cup and Super Bowl.

Kapp was the QB on the last Cal team that went to the Rose Bowl, in January 1959. He later became Cal’s head coach, serving in that capacity from 1982-1986. Of course, the 1982 Big Game between Cal and Stanford is etched in history as it ended on The Play, a game-winning, five-lateral kickoff return that remains one of the most celebrated and improbable endings in college football history.

But, as Mark Purdy wrote in his Nov. 29, 2006 column in the San Jose Mercury News, the final outcome of The Play was no accident.

Purdy: “Every week in practice, for enjoyment, he had his Bears play a keepaway game called ‘grab-ass’ that Kapp had learned while playing Cal basketball for Pete Newell. The players’ instincts took over in the final seconds against Stanford, famously replayed every year with radio announcer Joe Starkey’s fren-

zied description of Kevin Moen running through the Stanford band to victory.”

Kapp was a four-sport athlete in high school and played basketball and football at Cal.

Born in New Mexico in 1938, Kapp’s family moved to the San Fernando Valley, to Salinas when he was 9 years old and then to Newhall in Santa Clarita County.

He earned All-American honors and was fifth in the Heisman Trophy voting in his senior season quarterbacking Cal to the Pacific Coast Conference championship in 1958.

The following spring, Kapp was drafted 13th overall by the Washington Redskins (now Commanders).

But nothing materialized from that so he signed with the Canadian Football League and spent a total of eight seasons

there, twice leading the British Columbia Lions to the Grey Cup title game.

He got his opportunity in the NFL in 1967 with the Minnesota Vikings, leading them to Super Bowl IV following a 12-2 season in 1969. The Vikings lost to the Kansas City Chiefs but Kapp’s place in Vikings’ history had been established.

“Men like Joe Kapp are the cornerstones the Minnesota Vikings franchise was built upon,” Vikings Owner and President Mark Wilf said to ESPN. “Joe’s toughness and competitive spirit defined the Vikings teams of his era, and his tenacity and leadership were respected by teammates and opponents alike. We mourn Joe’s loss with his family, friends and Vikings fans around the world.”

Kapp spent a total of four seasons in the NFL, compiling a 24-21-3 record as a starter. He threw for 5,911 yards with

40 touchdowns and 64 interceptions. He holds the NFL single-game record with seven touchdown passes, tied with seven others, including Drew Brees and Peyton Manning.

However, Kapp’s greatest impact was off the field, as he won an antitrust lawsuit against the NFL in 1972. Even though he wasn’t awarded any damages, Kapp is credited with helping pave the way for NFL free agency and players’ rights protection, something that resonates in every facet of pro sports today.

Kapp also had small acting roles, appearing in “The Longest Yard” in 1974.

Kapp is survived by his wife, Jennifer, daughters Emi and Gabi, and sons Will and JJ. Will was a standout running back at Los Gatos High and currently serves as an assistant coach on the Wildcats junior varsity team.

SIZABLE IMPACT Joe Kapp (left) seen here with his son Will (center) died May 8 at age 85. The longtime Los Gatos resident is credited with helping pave the way for modern day NFL free agency.

SWEET SWING

a

seen here in the CCS Finals, concluded a sensational 2023 season with a fourth-place finish in the 3200 meter run and an eighth in the 1600 in the CIF State Championships May 26-27 at Buchanan High in Clovis.

ROUNDUP: LGHS BOYS MAKE HISTORY

Boys golf is a hit on the

links

Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor

After winning the Central Coast Section Championships by a convincing margin, the Los Gatos High boys track and field team continued to surge in the CIF State Championships May 26-27 at Veterans Memorial Stadium at Buchanan High in Clovis.

The Wildcats finished 10th in the team standings out of 102 teams that scored, one of the best results in program history. Los Gatos received spectacular performances from athletes who have been doing it all season long.

The boys 4x400 meter relay team of Levi Romero, Jake Bohane, Brady Kamali and Wil Brennan took second in a personal-record of 3 minutes, 13.97

seconds, eclipsing their PR of 3:15.88 set fewer than 24 hours earlier in Friday’s preliminary heats.

The quartet’s time in the Finals set a new record by a CCS team and was truly an epic performance. Brennan and Romero also qualified for the open 400 meter final, finishing in seventh and eighth place, respectively. Sophomore Aydon Stefanopoulos continued his rise among the State’s elite in the distance events.

He finished in eighth place in the 1600 meters in a PR of 4:10.55. Three hours later, Stefanopoulos placed fourth in the 3200 in 8:57.99, beating his previous PR by over 2 ½ seconds set the previous week in the CCS Championships.

Stefanopoulos’ result was rather remarkable considering he was the only top-10 runner who did both the mile

and two-mile races. Most opt for just one of the distance races because of the grueling task of trying to do both within a couple of hours of each other.

Stefanopoulos has dialed in his tactics and discipline, displaying a maturity on the track that eludes most until their senior year. In the 1600, he posted splits of 1:04, 1:04 and 1:03 before unleashing a 58-second final lap.

In the 3200, Stefanopoulos’ first seven laps were all within two seconds of each other that’s professional level race pacing, folks before he unleashed another one of his wicked kicks, covering the final 400 in 62 seconds. Stefanopoulos started his kick with about 600 meters to go, passing six runners en route to the finish.

Los Gatos had two girls Nicole Steiner and Hannah Slover who were

in competition as well. Steiner, a sophomore, finished sixth in the shot put in 41-3 ¾. Slover, a senior and the 2022 state champion in the high jump, didn’t advance to the final round this time, placing 15th with a mark of 5-5.

Boys Golf

Los Gatos High had one of its best seasons in recent memory, becoming one of just eight teams that qualified for the CCS Finals May 16 at Laguna Seca Golf Ranch in Monterey.

The Wildcats finished with a score of 398, four strokes better than league rival Palo Alto, a team they battled all season long in Santa Clara Valley Athletic League De Anza Division play. In the CCS Finals, Kirin Desai led Los Gatos by shooting a 4-over par 76, good for 30th place overall.

Quin Cristofano and Theo Lohrer both shot a round of 78, Henry Wong a 81, Tyler Purcell a 85 and Kabir Khanna a 89. In the CCS Regional No. 2 a week prior, the team had three golfers go under 80. Lohrer shot a 1-over par 73, Khanna 75 and Wong 77.

REASON TO DANCE Los Gatos High sophomore Aydon Stefanopoulos,

Los Gatos golfer Theo Lohrer shot

1-over par 73 in the CCS Regionals and followed that up with a 78 in the Finals on May 16 at Laguna Seca Golf Ranch in Monterey.

Jonathan Natividad

HORTICULTURE Arid weather increases water consumption

Tony Tomeo, Contributor Superbloom is brief for two main reasons. It involves native species that know to bloom quickly before arid summer weather. Also, wildflowers in the wild receive no irrigation to sustain bloom through arid weather. With irrigation, some of such species are capable of prolonging bloom. A few can disperse seed for subsequent generations to bloom later.

That is why California poppy blooms for a longer season within home gardens. It easily performs through much of summer with irrigation. Also, with irrigation, it might regenerate to bloom for autumn after summer dormancy. Seed from earlier spring bloom might grow to also bloom for autumn. Some godetias and lupines perform similarly within cultivation.

Most species within home gardens are exotic, though. In other words, they are not native. Those that are native to a similar mediterranean climate respond similarly to cultivation. Generally, some from desert climates do so also, although many dislike extra irrigation. The majority of exotic species actually rely on some degree of cultivation and irrigation.

Such species are native to climates with cooler and less arid weather through summer. Rainfall here is too limited to winter to sustain them through summer. Minimal humidity and warmth increase the need for moisture while it is least available. Cooling summer breezes actually accelerate desiccation. Arid weather certainly has its disadvantages.

As spring relinquishes to warmer and drier summer, irrigation becomes more important. Frequency and duration of automated irrigation must adjust to increasingly arid weather. Shallow root systems, such as those of turf grass lawns, require more frequent irrigation. Deep root systems, such as those of maturing trees, require more voluminous irrigation. However, irrigation should not be so excessive that soil remains saturated. Many mature trees and shrubs need none at all. Some receive enough from what adjacent vegetation does not consume. Some are satisfied with only occasional irrigation. Turf and annuals

CALENDAR

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

LIVE OAK ADULT DAY SERVICES REOPENING

On June 1, the reopening reception of the Live Oak Adult Day Services will be held from 4-6pm, with a ribbon cutting ceremony by Mayor Maria Ristow at 5pm. The reception, with light hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, will be at the Live Oak Los Gatos site, 111 Church St. in Los Gatos.

BLOOD DRIVE

require the most frequent irrigation. Yet, even they can rot if their soil is always saturated. Calibration of irrigation requires diligence.

Highlight: punchbowl godetia

All 41 species of Clarkia that are native to North America are native to California. Punchbowl godetia, Clarkia bottae, inhabits almost all counties of Southern California. It is absent only from Imperial County. It also inhabits Monterey and San Benito counties. Its name may allude to its floral shape, or its bloom in Devil's Punchbowl near Valyermo.

Punchbowl godetia is an ephemeral annual that blooms briefly for spring. Bloom is early in some regions but late in other regions. Also, its schedule varies from year to year. Because it does not transplant easily, it is rarely available from nurseries. It grows better from seed, which is available online. Within favorable situations, it self sows after bloom.

Bloom is delicate and airy, on limber and lightly foliated stems less than three feet high. Individual flowers are barely an inch wide. Floral color is slightly purplish pink with white centers and tiny red spots. It is variable though, so might be a bit more purplish or lighter pink. Leaves are very narrow. New seedlings do not compete well with other vegetation.

The Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Robin Sedgwick and Don Knight of Coldwell Banker Realty, and Stanford Blood Center, is holding a blood drive outside its office, 10 Station Way, on June 2 from 10am to 3pm.

➝ sbcdonor.org/donor/schedules/ drive_schedule/12233.

HUEMANITY FESTIVAL

AWỌ’s Huemanity Festival will take place at Congregation Shir Hadash in Los Gatos on June 4, noon-7pm The youth-led, free festival will offer workshops and interactive celebrations for all ages. Concurrent workshops for all families and youth, with food and drinks are scheduled from noon-4pm. Photo opportunity on a Purple Carpet is scheduled from 4-5pm. The Festival Main Stage is scheduled from 5-7pm.

➝ awocenter.org/huemankindfest.

FIRST FREE SUNDAY

New Museum Los Gatos, 106 E. Main St., offers free general admission on the first Sunday of the month. The museum will be open June 4 from 10am to 4pm, with guided tours at 11am and 2pm. Registration is required.

➝ numulosgatos.org/events/first-freesunday-jun23.

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 June 7 at 5pm in person and on Zoom. The club will discuss “The Feather Thief: Beauty, Obsession, and the Natural History Heist of the Century” by Kirk Wallace Johnson ➝ losgatosca.libcal.com/ event/9872424.

‘MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE’ SCREENING BENEFIT

The Veterans Memorial and Support Foundation will host an evening at the CineLux Los Gatos Theatre on July 19 for the premier showing of the new movie “Mission: Impossible.” It will start at 7pm and the cost will be a $50 donation to the Veterans Foundation.

➝ bit.ly/4183sMr.

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 Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, along with Sunday afternoons.

➝ bit.ly/3OSvPHS.

ONGOING

Los Gatos Farmers Market

The Los Gatos Certified Farmers’ Market offers seasonal fruits and vegetables from Santa Clara County yearround. 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.

Campbell Farmers Market

The Downtown Campbell Farmers Market is held Sundays, rain or shine, from 9am to 1pm.

➝ uvfm.org/campbell-sundays.

Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.

ADAPTABLE Chaparral vegetation naturally tolerates arid weather.

Contributed

GUEST VIEW HOW TO CREATE A HEALTHIER COMMUNITY

Jeffrey P. Blum , Contributor

Reading “Davos Man: How the Billionaires Devoured the World” by Peter S. Goodman left me despairing the power and greediness of a select group of billionaires until I neared the book’s end. One of the final chapters, titled “The Money is Right There in the Community,” restored my hope and faith in the belief that options exist to make a positive difference in this world, and perhaps more importantly, in our community.

The book also made me realize that the community health aspect of the Los Gatos Community Health and Senior Services Commission, of which I am a part, is broader in meaning and embraces more of a responsibility than just operating with a focus on improving the mental and physical health of our residents. Instead, it can also include looking at and improving the overall health of our town as an economic entity. The pertinent chapter in the book provides a few examples of how to overcome Davos Man and restore a community’s vibrancy.

Like many towns and cities in the United States, Preston, Lancashire County, in northwest England, saw its industries (in this case, the textile industry) move to lower-wage countries, causing factory closures and massive joblessness to occur. The town’s response to the dramatic downward spiral of its fortunes was to create a plan designed to keep wages, tax revenues, and savings cycling through the town’s economies. The plan involved local government entities transacting as much as possible with businesses in the town. The school district hired a local contractor to supply meals to its schools. The contractor in turn purchased meat and produce from nearby farmers. Residents shopped in surrounding businesses rather than giving their money to companies controlled by faraway shareholders and billionaires. The plan resulted in a jump from 5% to 18% of spending in the town of Preston and a jump from 39% to 78% of spending in Lancashire County.

The Preston Model, as it came to be known, was a remedy to austerity

soon implemented elsewhere. The Lancashire police department, which had been decimated by necessary austerity measures, stipulated as part of the bidding process for construction of a new police headquarters in Blackpool, that “social values” would be prioritized. Bidders were favored if they were local, if they hired young apprentices, and if they recognized trade unions. The winning firm, while based in Manchester, was required to spend at least 80% of its budget within Blackpool. A halted shopping mall project became a monument in Blackpool, to the Preston Model as the council renovated the old market and included a fish counter, a butcher, a pub offering local beers, and coffee outlets.

Los Gatos is a thriving town with residents strongly supportive of community cohesiveness and local merchants. However, this situation will not necessarily last forever. Moreover, our town’s enviable position does not mean we cannot benefit from being ever mindful of the benefits of embracing the Preston Model.

Although we have a general plan for our town, intended to address the town’s needs and concerns for years to come, it is worthwhile to keep in mind a simple thought: our community thrives when we support one another emotionally as well as financially. Buy what you need at local stores and hire local workers when possible. A community garden constructed in the plans for our town, should, if possible, be completed with the use of local workers. A senior center may perhaps be improved or constructed from scratch with the services of a local contractor, local construction workers, and local building materials and supplies. The possibilities are there; we just need to be creative and persistent in pursuing them.

If we remain vigilant, Los Gatos will continue to thrive economically, which concurrently will assist our residents in thriving emotionally and financially. Otherwise, I am concerned we may suffer the experience of towns like Liverpool and numerous other towns in our country still struggling to pull themselves out of their downward economic spirals.

While I can probably have a civil conversation with a billionaire, I sure as heck do not want them ruining the wonderful town I call home, when it is within our collective power to keep them at bay.

Jeffrey P. Blum is a family law mediator who lives in Los Gatos.

LOCAL STUDENT PLACES IN CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION

Los Gatos High School freshman Kiara Zhou was awarded third place for her entry “Tender Trust” in the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for California’s 16th Congressional District. Announced earlier this month by Congressmember Anna G. Eshoo, Kiara was honored at a virtual reception on May 4.

With entries from 59 student artists who submitted their work from throughout the South Bay, Mid-Peninsula and coastal San Mateo County, entries were judged by an independent panel of members of the art community, including artists Kit Coleman of Woodside, Meredith Forster of Mountain View and Summer Lee of Pacifica.

“Our student artists are among the best I’ve seen in my career,” said Superintendent Bill W. Sanderson. “Our exemplary arts, graphic design, and elective courses offer such an incredible support and launching pad for our talented students. I am thrilled for Kiara’s recognition.”

Since 1982, the Congressional Institute has hosted an annual visual art competition for high school students to recognize artistic talent throughout the nation. Attracting almost 700,000 participants nationwide to date, the competition calls for submissions of paintings, drawings, collages, photographs and computer-generated art.

The winning artwork from each congressional district is exhibited in the U.S. Capitol for a year, and the winner receives two round-trip tickets to Washington D.C. for the annual awards ceremony and launch of the exhibition courtesy of Southwest Airlines.

SALT & STRAW OPENS NEW ICE CREAM SHOP IN LOS GATOS

Ice cream brand Salt & Straw is set to open a new scoop shop June 2 in Los Gatos, bringing their cult-favorite flavors to the Old Town community center at 50 University Ave., D200.

In addition to its popular signature flavors such as Sea Salt with Caramel

LOCAL SCENE

WINNING PIECE Los Gatos High School freshman Kiara Zhou was awarded third place for her entry “Tender Trust” in the 2023 Congressional Art Competition for California’s 16th Congressional District.

Kiara Zhou

Ribbons, Salted Malted Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, and Pear & Blue Cheese, the Los Gatos location will also have its recently launched Upcycled Food Series menu. Available through the month of June, the series features five flavors, each in partnership with brands focused on reducing food waste in the U.S.

The Upcycled Food Series includes:

• Day-Old Bread Pudding & Chocolate Ganache: Created in collaboration with Urban Gleaners, the Portland-based nonprofit redistributing food from high-end restaurants and grocery stores to schools and agencies working to end hunger. The custard bread pudding ice cream is layered with housemade chocolate ganache. Salt & Straw worked with Urban Gleaners to gather a year’s worth of bread from around Portland that would have gone to waste to feature in this flavor.

• Cacao Pulp & Chocolate Stracciatella Gelato: Created in collaboration with Blue Stripes, the cacao brand founded by famed chocolatier Oded Brenner. The cacao gelato, which is made using

the whole pod including the shell and pulp, is striped with ribbons of dark chocolate stracciatella.

• Lemon Curd & Whey: Created in collaboration with The Spare Food Co, the culinary innovation company co-founded by chef Adam Kaye, who reduces food waste at farms and processors by capturing overlooked and unused ingredients. The tart, tangy gelato is infused with whey-based Spare Food Lemon & Ginger sparkling tonic.

Salt & Straw Los Gatos will be open from 11am-11pm. For information, follow Salt & Straw on Instagram @saltandstraw.

TASTING HOUSE OPENS CHAMPAGNE BAR

The Tasting House, 368 Village Lane in Los Gatos, has opened the Champagne Bar, a new lounge-like space that will offer an extensive list of champagne.

The $75 flight includes five varieties of champagne. It will also be serving a selection of new and old

world still French wines with classic food pairings, such as caviar, oysters, crab, pomme frites and a selection of artisanal cheeses. Other menu items include fresh salads (Arugula, Strawberry and Goat Cheese, Ahi Tuna Niçoise, Beet Salad with Feta), Boujee Tater Tots, and Truffle Grilled Cheese on local Manresa Bread.

The Champagne Bar at Tasting House will be open Tuesday to Sunday from noon to 10pm (closing at 9pm on Sundays).

➝ tastinghouse.com.

DROTAR NAMED TO SPRING DEAN'S LIST AT FULBRIGHT COLLEGE

Reese Drotar of Los Gatos was named to the Spring 2023 Dean's List in the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Arkansas. Drotar joins more than 2,000 additional Fulbright College students on the Spring 2023 Dean's List. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must achieve at least a 3.75 grade

point average for the semester while completing at least 12 credit hours.

“As we wrap up another remarkable academic year in Fulbright College, it’s such a pleasure to recognize Reese for this spectacular achievement and for making Fulbright College and the University of Arkansas so incredibly proud,” said Kathryn Sloan, the college’s interim dean. “In being named to the Dean’s List, Reese represents the very best of Fulbright College and demonstrates excellence in academics and a commitment to our mission of peace through education.

“I’d be remiss not to also recognize and thank the family, friends and Fulbright College faculty and staff who have supported Reese. We’re immensely grateful for their continued influence and support.”

LOCALS RECOGNIZED BY WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE

Three local students were among 2,054 undergraduates who achieved the criteria required for Worcester Polytechnic Institute spring 2023 Dean’s List.

The criteria for the WPI Dean’s List differs from that of most other universities as WPI does not compute a grade point average. Instead, WPI defines the Dean’s List by the amount of work completed at the A level in courses and projects.

The students are:

• Alessandro Brianti of Los Gatos, class of 2026, 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

“WPI’s academic programs are rigorous and require a level of independence beyond what is required in traditional courses. WPI students work on open-ended problems for communities around the world. The problems are important and the impact is real,” said Professor Arthur C. Heinricher. “Some of this nation’s best and brightest students come to WPI to study engineering and science and business and the humanities. Those named to the Dean's List have excelled in all of their work, and we are exceptionally proud of these outstanding students.”

FOOD AND WINE The Tasting House has opened the Champagne Bar.

Carly Hackbarth

REAL ESTATE HOME OF THE WEEK

UPDATED AMENITIES THROUGHOUT

This home is located within walking distance to downtown, trails and wineries.

Located at 163 Kimble Ave. in Los Gatos, the 4,273-square-foot home includes four bedrooms and four bathrooms.

Built in 1988, the ground floor primary suite includes a remodeled ensuite with a Japanese-style soaking tub and waterfall spout, plus a stall

shower with full body show heads.

The home features cathedral ceilings and hardwood floors throughout, along with multiple expansive decks.

The kitchen is equipped with a gas Wolf range, Thermador refrigerator, leathered quartzite countertops and more.

The home is listed at $4.5 million by Intero Real Estate Services. For information, visit bit.ly/3NojfTg.

KIMBLE AVENUE This Los Gatos home features expansive decks that are accessible from all bedrooms.

SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM IN LOS GATOS

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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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Is Someone You Love Graduating In 2023?

Tell your 2023 grad just how proud you are of their accomplishment with a keepsake graduation ad & photo. They will treasure this for a lifetime.

We will run a 1/8 page color ad that includes their graduation photo in Los Gatan’s June 7 Graduation edition.

Cost is $89

Just email us the following information at Serenity@weeklys.com:

1. Graduate’s name & school graduating from

2. Photo (graduation photo or cute family photo of the graduate)

3. Text/Salutation (up to 22 max number of words)

4. Don’t forget to include the names of those extending their good wishes.

5. Please include your name, address & phone number so Serenity Polizzi can call you to confirm how you want the ad to look.

Once we recieve your email Serenity will then contact you to go over the information to refine it for you.

If you have any questions on this, please don’t hesitate to email us your contact phone number at Serenity@weeklys.com, as well.