EDUCATORS STRUGGLE TO ALIGN POLICY AMIDST THE AI EXPLOSION
Students and teachers are grappling with the new technology
Aradhita Singh, Intern
As I ask Dyuthi Boinepalli, a 15-year old at Saratoga High School, about the uptick in Artificial Intelligence usage on campus and how it affects curriculum. She looks at me and smirks. “I'd answer that, but it’s not loading,” she said, referring to how she and her peers have begun to increasingly integrate ChatGPT into their daily lives—even conversations with student reporters.
OpenAI’s ChatGPT software answers prompts in a matter of seconds, doing so with eloquent language, sources and in great length. The software generates answers to questions quickly, and without having to conduct research yourself. However, it has led to trouble in the Los Gatos-Saratoga Union School District. Students have been caught using ChatGPT to write essays and complete other assignments, taking the credit for its responses.
The issue has become quite
ACE Tre Golino struck out eight over five innings of shutout ball to help lead the Wildcats to a riveting 8-7, 15-inning win over Mountain View April 2-3. P8
FIBER INTERNET SWITCHED-ON FOR RURAL RESIDENTS
Surfnet celebrates completion of Phase 1 at Summit Store
Drew Penner, Editor
On Friday, at a midday ceremony in the Summit Store’s parking lot, in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains, community
members joined with telecom and government officials to celebrate the completion of the first phase of Surfnet Communications’ rural internet expansion.
Mark Morgenthaler, Surfnet’s CEO, said they’ve come a long way from the days when they’d jerry-rig equipment from Fry’s Electronics to provide ru-
dimentary internet to people in the mountains.
“Today marks an important milestone in our trajectory,” he said. “I’m grateful to the employees.”
Other speakers included California Public Utilities
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COMING SOON IN LOS GATOS ACTIVE
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Beautifully remodeled 4 bedroom & 3 full bathroom Mediterranean style home. One bedroom & bathroom on 1st level. The home is situated on a quiet cul-de-sac within strolling distance to all schools ,downtown shopping, restaurants, and coffee houses. Formal entry with high ceiling, formal living room with a wood burning fireplace, gas starter, and cathedral ceiling. Large formal dining room for entertaining. Kitchen/family room combination, custom cabinets, Ceasarstone counters, glass tiled backsplash, new gas cooktop, built-in oven/microwave & breakfast bar. Great room with gas fireplace, built-in surround sound , high ceiling, skylights, built-in desk and storage cabinets. Hardwood floors throughout. Spacious primary suite with mountain views, sitting area, large walk-in closet with custom built-ins, romantic primary bath, double sinks ,marble counter & floor, custom cabinets, walk-in shower with marble slab & glass surround, large jetted tub, and skylight. Resort-like backyard with a saltwater Pebble Tec pool, waterfall, hot tub, wood burning fireplace outdoor kitchen with Dacor gas BBQ, sink, & refrigerator, and artificial turf. 3 car attached garage. Double pane windows & sliders. Views of the mountains & hills. Easy access to hiking & biking trails. Los Gatos Schools.
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LOCAL SCENE
LOCAL CATHOLICS MOURN DEATH OF POPE FRANCIS
Drew
Penner, Editor
Just hours after Pope Francis died Monday, at age 88, it just so happened to be time for the monthly gathering of the St. Mary’s Seniors women’s group at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, in Los Gatos. Shortly after noon, the ladies reflected on the passing of the first Jesuit pope.
“A lot of us were touched—the fact that he was able to celebrate Easter,” said Zina Lou Dyer, a parishioner there for seven decades, “—and in his Popemobile, besides.”
At 93 years young, she’s seen her fair share of popes.
She liked how John XXIII helped the church progress, she said, adding she feels Francis carried on with these advances.
“We had a wonderful, open pope,” she said, referring to the most recent
FAR WEST FUNGI TO HOST SANTA CRUZ MOUNTAIN MUSHROOM FEST
2nd Annual Mushroom Festival to feature experts, chefs and artists
Staff Report
Far West Fungi, a gourmet mushroom grower, is scheduled to host the second Santa Cruz Mountain Mushroom Festival on May 3 and 4.
Set amid towering old growth redwood groves at Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton, the event is to feature educational sessions and demos from some of the country’s leading voices in the mushroom world. There will also be live music, hands-on workshops and an array of mushroom-forward foods, drinks and artisan crafts.
Highlights to include:
• Medicinal mushroom talk from Christopher Hobbs
• Nature walk with Cindy Li (@cindydoedee)
• Foraging stories with David Arora
• Cooking demo from Chef Jonny Black of Chez Noir Carmel
• Fire and fungi panel with Maya Elson and Jeff Ravage
• Cultivation workshops hosted by Bay Area Applied Mycology (BAAM), MycoLove and Field & Forest
• Live music from acts like Trianna Feruza and Michael Hammer & the Nails
“Through our decades in the fungi world, we have found community and connections are essential for mushrooms and people,” said Ian Garrone, Far West Fungi’s CEO in a release.
“Last year’s festival was truly incredible, from bringing together the best and brightest experts to sharing the joys of mushrooms with thousands of attendees. We can’t wait to host the second annual Santa Cruz Mountain Mushroom Festival and continue building community through fungi.” Mushroom-forward food will be served from favorites like Shared Cultures, Penny Ice Creamery, SC Eatery,
one. “He was welcoming to all.
“We are all thinking of all the cardinals who have to go to Rome—everyone under 80,” Dyer noted. “My message is that, I would invite people to pray for
wisdom and prudence for the cardinals.”
The death of the pope didn’t exactly come as a surprise to these local women.
“He looked feeble,” Dyer said.
“It was his time,” Marcia Green.
Far West Fungi, Fungi Foods, Shockwave, The Grove Cafe & Bakery, and Bookies Pizza. Drinks will be available from Fox Tale Fermentation, Laughing Monk Brewing, Quinta Cruz and local kombucha.
Far West Fungi will also host two pre-festival showcase events at the Ferry Building in San Francisco.
To learn more about the event: scmmfest.com.
CORRECTION
The April 9 Discover LOST Gatos article on John W. Lyndon contained incorrect information. Lyndon was born circa 1836 in St. Georges de Clarenceville, Quebec, Canada. In 1871, he married Theresa Rector Starr. We regret the errors
MYCOLOGICAL Fungi will be the center of attention at Mushroom Fest.
Penner
MONTHLY GET-TOGETHER These Catholic seniors said it was nice Pope Francis got to celebrate one more Easter.
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Explore more membership benefits by calling 408-523-3344 or emailing ConciergeMedicineLosGatos@sutterhealth.org.
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DOUG SOUVIGNIER, M.D.
KRISTIN WELTER, M.D.
NANCY TIBBS, M.D.
BIKE AND PEDESTRIAN INFRASTRUCTURE CELEBRATED IN LOS GATOS WITH OPENING OF HWY 9 BRIDGE
Sustainable transportation upgrade was the result of two decades of effort
D inah C otton , Contributor
On an overcast spring day—20 years after planning began—a new prefabricated pedestrian, bicycle and ADA-compliant bridge was dedicated at Highway 9.
It links Highway 9 to the Los Gatos Creek Trailhead, and is located beside an existing bridge.
At this brief dedication were the visionaries who saw the need for a safe way to access the dirt trail you can use to visit the creek.
Town officials and the construction team behind the job joined for celebratory photos to mark the occasion.
2 decades in the making
Thomas Cook and Ying Smith were instrumental in what turned out to be quite the lengthy process of building this trail access and bridge. Cook said he was impressed with the result.
“This is so much better,” he said. “It’s much more elaborate than I would have expected. I mean, there was this little dirt trail, right?, that we used to scamper down. So, I thought maybe they’d make it a little wider and a little less steep. But you know, just
look what we have today.”
He credited Smith, who served as transportation and mobility manager, for having a big influence on the build.
“She was really the key to this entire project, getting grants—she found money everywhere,” he said, also shouting-out former Los Gatos Parks and Public Works-head Matt Morley (who is now City Manager for Saratoga). “It slowly became a reality.”
Off a major thoroughfare
The original Highway 9 bridge was built in 1956. It underwent reconstruction in 1992. The work on the new path and bridge project was com-
pleted in September of last year–part of the Los Gatos Creek Trailhead Connector Project. This project was led by the Town of Los Gatos with a permit from Caltrans, as it is partially on Caltrans property
Not only is the entire Creek Trail exceptionally beautiful at this major thoroughfare, it is used by many daily. With this new bridge, the area is accessible from both sides of the creek at Highway 9, for everything from wheelchairs, to strollers, to scooters, to non-motorized bikes.
Following the official dedication, Anne Klaben, of Los Gatos Commons, was the first wheelchair user to cross the steel span over the creek.
CELEBRATION On an overcast spring day all were happy to see the bridge dedicated after two decades of planning and construction.
TO THE EDITOR
How would travel advice apply in more serious anti-Americanism situations?
(In response to last week’s Guest View article by etiquette expert Pamela Eyring)
How would she handle an incident involving a 9th grader being physically attacked in broad daylight in a public location while on a school-related trip in a European country? Caused a concussion. She was targeted for being American. The police did nothing.
I was involved in the incident as a chaperone, but I don’t feel comfortable sharing any more details than that.
The author of the article provides valuable advice in her piece. My intention was to emphasize that promoting antiAmerican sentiment can embolden the crazies. We should all strive to tone it down.
Unfortunately, this young girl would not have had a chance to follow the advice given in the article. Her attacker heard her accent and then simply felt entitled to violently attack her. It all happened very quickly. It’s important to remember that local authorities may not always be able to do anything.
athleticism and natural strength. Very coachable and a great teammate.
His parents were (are) so loving and committed to his well being. I enjoyed watching him along with Karlo Winkelman and Kiko Alonzo (along with others) dominate on Butch’s football team. I had forgotten that Nick broke the CCS record for yards gained which is an incredible feat. I always enjoyed running into him and his parents around town.
He truly epitomized what we call a stud on the athletic fields!
Denevi —via LosGatan.com
Thanking Nestldown owners for working with charities (In response to the article by Faizi Samadani about Nestldown)
An amazing treasure right in our own backyard. Thank you to Nestldown owners, Barbara and Mark Beck, for sharing your beautiful paradise with our community. We appreciate your generosity to our many charities, especially, Cancer Care Point for the use of your beautiful home and gardens for their fundraiser.
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Local reporting has a big impact Drew (Penner, editor), thank you for always providing us with quality journalism regarding the town of Los Gatos.
I’ve posted public statements regarding saving our Lexington school…and it worked!
Susan Francis —via LosGatan.com
Editor: And thank you, Susan, for supporting our community newspaper. It means a lot!
Coach thrilled to see Nick Kalpin honored (In response to Emanuel Lee’s article about this year’s LGHS Athletic Hall of Fame inductees)
I had the honor of coaching Nick all through Little League AllStars and Pony. He was gifted with great
Linda Swenberg —via Facebook
Mike
Lydia and Mike Norcia, Norcia Real Estate Services —via Facebook
LOS GATOS HIGH WILDCATS PULLING AWAY TOWARD LEAGUE CROWN
Baseball boys dominating the De Anza Division
Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor
The very thought of a team threatening to pull away and win the ultra-competitive Santa Clara Valley Athletic League De Anza Division baseball championship is rather remarkable.
But that’s exactly the position Los Gatos High School has put itself in as league play nears the halfway point. The Wildcats entered this week’s action 13-3 overall and 6-0 in the De Anza, two games ahead of second-place Mountain View, a team it has already swept this season.
The key to the Wildcats’ success has been a laser-like focus from one game to the next.
“We’re not getting ahead of ourselves,” Los Gatos coach Mike Minkel said. “Our staff does a great job of keeping the guys grounded. We talk about the enjoyment of a win, but at a certain point we have to move on and start getting prepared for the next one. Whenever you can win on Friday and sweep a weekly series, you get a couple of days to enjoy that. But these guys know when they get back to practice Monday, it’s essentially starting over at 0-0.”
The Wildcats have a Division I commit in pitcher Tre Golino (Cal Berkeley) and a Division III commit in outfielder Zach Biller (Willamette University of Oregon). Beyond that, they’ll have several other players go the community college route, which is a great option for those looking to continue their playing career.
The Wildcats have stamped themselves as the De Anza Division title favorite by sweeping two-game sets with Mountain View and Los Altos, two of their three competitors for the title—Wilcox being the other. They were involved in arguably the game of
the year, a 8-7, 15-inning victory over Mountain View April 2-3.
The marathon contest spanned two days and finally ended when Biller’s line-drive single plated Jayden Thomas, who led off the bottom of the 15th inning with a drag bunt single before stealing second base. The contest was tied 5-5 after seven innings until the Spartans scored single runs in the 12th and 14th only to see Los Gatos answer both times leading up to the decisive 15th inning.
“We were going back and forth and kind of struggling the whole game, and in that 15th inning it seemed so easy,” Minkel said. “Pretty cool game, pretty memorable.”
Rowen Smith went 2-for-5 with three RBIs, while Golino and Chase Oberthier highlighted the team’s pitching performance, combining to toss nine innings of shutout ball with 14 strikeouts. The white-knuckle contest came on the heels of another thrilling Los Gatos victory, a 2-1,
nine-inning decision over Los Altos.
Matt Ludeman pitched 4 shutout innings and Beau Musser hit a walkoff single to cap a day in which he led the team with two hits and two runs driven in.
“That was when Beau kind of announced from an offensive standpoint, ‘Hey, I’m here and ready to step up and be one of the main guys,’” Minkel said.
Musser went 4-for-4 with four runs scored and four RBIs in a 13-0 win over Palo Alto on April 18, a result that earned high praise from Minkel.
“We were finally able to put together one of our best games of the year where we limited mistakes and capitalized on opportunities we created through really good at-bats,” he said. “We had really good defensive play, really good baserunning, and it was fun to watch and be a part of that game. When you beat a league rival and put up 13 runs and don’t give up any, it’s a testament to the hard work the guys are putting in—and at the same time understanding we can still get better.”
Ludeman was simply dynamite,
striking out eight in four innings while allowing just one hit. In the team’s first game with Palo Alto two days prior—a 10-7 Wildcats’ victory—Julian McMahon went 4-for-4 to lead the way offensively. Brady Simon and Rowen Smith have been consistent producers, highlighting the team’s talent and depth.
“I challenge the guys every week to make my job as hard as possible on who to put in the lineup,” Minkel said, “—who’s going to start, who’s going to be the reliever coming to the mound and who's going to be in the lineup. I love the fact that we have so much depth and have guys we can plug in and not be concerned whether we’re going to be able to play at a high level.” Minkel described the team’s mindset, work ethic and resiliency in glowing terms.
“This group is not satisfied by any stretch of what they’ve done so far,” he said. “And that’s a testament to their practices and our plan on those days in preparing for the games.”
MARATHON The Los Gatos High School baseball team celebrates after beating Mountain View 8-7 in a two-day, 15-inning contest.
LGHS AUDITORIUM PACKED FOR CONGRESSIONAL TOWN HALL
Panetta and Liccardo field questions from audience concerned about Trump
Drew Penner, Editor
As some of those in attendance at the Los Gatos High School auditorium began to speak, one could hear the trembling and defiance in their voices.
Each related a somewhat different concern, during the town hall hosted Thursday by area congressmen Jimmy Panetta and Sam Liccardo, and the frustration in the room—directed at the Trump Administration—was palpable.
“There’s one thing that never comes up in town halls, which I’d like to talk about,” said Santa Cruz Mountains resident Beverly Politzer, when she finally got her chance at the mic toward the end. “There is a tremendous conflict of interest with Elon Musk and Trump. And every day it gets worse and worse.”
There was clearly plenty of pent-up demand for face-time with Liccardo, who grew up in Saratoga and formerly served as San Jose’s mayor, and Panetta, the son of Leon Panetta (America’s former defense secretary and CIA head) who’s recently been in the news for accepting significant funds from the Israel lobby.
The pair presented a united front,
leaning more heavily than in the past into the Democratic resistance narrative that’s been picking up steam, if slowly, while still trying to steer supporters toward practical solutions (namely, success in the upcoming midterms).
“You’re right, this is just one dimension of the kleptocracy,” Liccardo said in reply to Politzer, adding if preferential treatment is shown to Musk’s company Starlink, it could harm nearby businesses. “We’ve got some local companies here in the West Valley that are very much fighting for this.”
Afterwards, Politzer told the Los Gatan she could feel a sense of collectivism building during the gathering, particularly when she asked about corruption.
“Everyone is worried about this issue,” she said.
“Great question,” said Vice Mayor Rob Moore as he filed into the hallway. “Good closer.”
This week, Moore expressed his frustration with another one of Musk’s companies—Tesla, in relation to the new dealership being built in Los Gatos.
“When I first heard about Tesla coming to Los Gatos, I reached out to their developers to ask them to provide some sort of community benefit,” he commented on a local Facebook community page called Los Gatos Town (that’s not associated with the
that of Nazi Germany—where close to an estimated 250,000 disabled people were murdered, according to the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust.
Another person was worried about rights being eliminated for people who identify as transgender.
Suze Morrison, 37, a Canadian studying ceramic arts at Foothill College, said her status in this country feels tenuous.
She represented the Toronto Center riding in Ontario, Canada, as a Member of Provincial Parliament, for the left-wing New Democratic Party from 2018-2022.
Among her leadership roles, Morrison was the Official Opposition critic for Urban Indigenous Issues.
“As an F-1 student, I no longer have the right to free speech in this country— and that’s been made abundantly clear,” she said. “We have seen over 1,000 student visas cancelled in the last week, with no reasons given and no recourse— and no opportunity for appeal.”
She mentioned the case of Ph.D. student Rümeysa Öztürk, who was abducted by ICE agents after writing an editorial piece in a student newspaper.
municipality). “Because of the massive size of the lot, I specifically asked for a small part of it to be a dog park or other ‘pocket park.’ They repeatedly declined and seemingly have no interest in contributing at all to Los Gatos. Disappointing and unsurprising.”
Meanwhile, the moderator of that page said he’d been accused of copyright infringement for posting a photo of the dealership he’d taken himself.
At the town hall, the congressmen both took pains to not badmouth progressive party firebrands like Alexandria Ocasio Cortez and Bernie Sanders, but touted centrist approaches like bipartisanship and border enforcement, and lauded establishment figures like Nancy Pelosi and Zoe Lofgren.
Panetta said they’re all singing out of the same hymnal.
“It’s all about winning in 2026— that’s what it really comes down to,” he said.
Liccardo said you have to “pick your pitches,” because you can’t “swing” at everything.
“What I’m doing is focusing on that message that I think is going to be most effective,” he said. “We’re all going to have different approaches.”
A man with a speech impediment said he was afraid that the political environment was starting to mirror
“We are seeing students who have been kidnapped off the street,” she said. “International students subsidize your postsecondary education. And if we do not have the right to free speech, what are we here to learn? So, my question to both of you today is, what are you doing to protect legal students studying in this country— and our First Amendment right to free speech and protest?”
The place erupted with applause for 12 seconds.
“Thank you for what you’ve contributed to our country by coming here,” Liccardo said. “The First Amendment—as I understand it—applies to all persons. It does not depend on whether you’re a citizen or not. We all have these freedoms…If anyone is feeling threatened, or has had an issue with their visa, please call my office so we can advocate for you. That is our job.”
Liccardo said he’s been communicating with an ICE regional director, who covers western states, in an effort to avoid deportation sweeps.
“What I am hearing from them, still— and obviously this can change in a given week—is they are not engaging in raids; it will be very targeted (that is, they are only targeting individuals who have active orders of deportation),” he said. “We are holding ICE accountable.”
POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT Hundreds of people packed the Los Gatos High School auditorium last week for a town hall featuring congressmen Jimmy Panetta and Sam Liccardo.
STUDENTS SOUND OFF ON AI TECH
Classroom AI, from page 1
a serious one across the nation. For example, Baltimore-based consulting company, the Art & Science group, found 69% of college-bound students have used generative AI tools.
Instances of students cheating on essays and other assignments in English has led to teachers at Saratoga High School switching to in-class essays rather than traditional athome essays. With the popularity of ChatGPT and its writing services on the rise, schools have had to make changes to their curriculum in order to make sure that their students’ words are truly their own.
Some teachers at Saratoga High are halting their earlier approach of relying more heavily on essays in English units. They have replaced these with outlines
students may work on only during class. Then, on the day of the in-class essay, these students must transfer their outline and make all their edits by the end of the period. Students receive instruction and around a week of class time to work on the outline, which they are also not allowed to take home. And they’re not allowed to use technological devices for the task.
A spokesperson for LGSUSD said the District is “currently working with students and staff to develop district-wide AI guidelines that will be rolled out at the beginning of next school year. Currently, teachers have their own policies in class that assess student classwork, knowledge, and skills; and district-wide, students and staff follow our Academic Integrity Policy.”
The District has also partnered with Stanford University’s Graduate School Of Education for a professional development day session on "Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact on Teaching and Learning." All classroom teachers were to go through the training.
“This work, in addition to working closely with our students and colleagues, will help shape these guidelines moving forward,” said Public Information & Engagement Officer Tanya De La Cruz.
The changing AI policies have left some students feeling like they didn’t get a chance at creating the best essay they possibly could. “I feel like if I had more time outside of class to think about it, I would have written a better essay. But teachers are grading it the same as if I had time outside of class to write it,” says Saachi Saraf, a sophomore at Saratoga High School.
Norah Heller, a sophomore at Saratoga High School, believes AI is a useful foundation for writing an essay, but
only to an extent. “I think it's a good start,” Heller said. “It gives people good ideas that they can build off of, but I don't think it's right to just have the AI, like, write your whole essay and then pass it off as your own.”
In an article for Forbes, Nick Morrison writes that “ChatGPT essays performed better on average, being marked particularly highly for ‘information’ and ‘reflection.’” However, the chatbot’s writing style is seen by some students as bland and monotone. Back at Saratoga High, Boinepalli is one of them.
“It's like everyone is using the same words, the same style, the same writing,” She said. “It’s like a very streamlined process. So, if everyone's using ChatGPT, everyone sounds the same. Everyone takes chat GPT as objectively right, so they think that they should be like ChatGPT. It takes away the human essence because everyone thinks ChatGPT is objectively right, but it isn't.”
DIGITAL BRAIN Students and teachers are wrestling with the best approach for AI use in education.
INTERNET UPGRADE
Surfnet, from page 1
Commissioner Darcie Houck, Santa Cruz County Supervisor Monica Martinez, Santa Cruz County Office of Response, Recovery & Resilience Director Dave Reid, and Sanjay Khandelwal, president of the California Broadband Alliance.
The CBA played a key role in securing funds from the CPUC for Surfnet.
Khandelwal said the nonprofit owns the fiber and will lease it to Surfnet for 50 years.
He told the newspaper they are gearing up to apply for more grants to extend service in the Holy City area in Santa Clara County, in Loma Prieta, in Felton and in Monterey, by partnering with Cruzio, Surfnet and Etheric.
“Today marks an important milestone in our trajectory.”
-Mark Morgenthaler, Surfnet CEO
If all goes as planned, they’ll be able to pay each of the internet service providers $17 million.
“There’s nobody else doing this,” he said, referring to the unique nonprofit-private partnership model. “Our goal is to build a network of ISPs.”
Khandelwal explains one of the big pluses of this approach is the ISP gets to avoid a big tax burden.
“The small ISP doesn’t have to come up with the taxes,” he said. “But they get 50-year rights.”
Similar to tribal or government applicants, because they’re a nonprofit, they automatically get a 20-point boost on the funding application, he added.
“When you’re going against AT&T and Comcast, 20 points is huge,” he said.
Maure Gildea, associate director of economic development and digital access for the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership, explained how they helped CBA with the grant process.
“We went to them and were like, ‘You could have a stronger application
CW
GUEST VIEW
THE LONGEVITY ECONOMY: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR LOS GATOS
Jeffrey P. Blum, Contributor
Andrew J. Scott's work on the Longevity Economy offers a compelling lens through which to view the future of Los Gatos, with its significant and growing older adult population. Rather than framing increased life expectancy as a societal burden, Scott emphasizes the economic opportunities that arise from a larger, healthier, and more engaged older demographic. Understanding and embracing the Longevity Economy is essential for sustained prosperity and community vibrancy.
A significant portion of Los Gatos’ residents are aged 65 and over. This isn't a looming crisis, but rather a powerful economic force waiting to be
recognized and engaged. The "traditional aging society" narrative, as Scott argues, focuses on the costs associated with an older population. In contrast, the Longevity Economy framework highlights the potential for economic growth driven by the needs, desires, and contributions of older adults.
One aspect of this is the increased demand for goods and services tailored to longer lifespans. In Los Gatos, this translates to a growing market for specialized healthcare, including preventative care and geroscience— areas Scott emphasizes as crucial for a healthier longer life. The existing concentration of high-net-worth individuals in Los Gatos further amplifies this potential, creating opportunities
for businesses that cater to sophisticated health and wellness needs. We might see a rise in concierge medical services, personalized fitness and nutrition programs designed for seniors, and innovative technologies supporting independent living.
The Longevity Economy extends to housing. As more residents choose to age in place, the demand for accessible and adaptable housing increases. The recent approval of senior housing in town signals a recognition of this trend. However, as Scott points out, it's not just about age-specific communities. Many seniors in Los Gatos desire remaining in their existing homes. This creates opportunities for home renovation services specializing
in universal design, as well as for businesses offering support services that allow seniors to maintain their independence, such as home care, transportation, and meal delivery.
Beyond consumption, Scott's vision of the Longevity Economy emphasizes the continued productivity and engagement of older adults. Los Gatos, with its highly educated and experienced population, stands to benefit significantly from fostering opportunities for longer working lives and continued civic participation. This could involve businesses offering flexible work arrangements, phased retirement options, and retraining programs that allow older workers to adapt to evolving industries. The town's community
IN BLOOM Spring flowers growing along Lexington Reservoir this past week.
organizations and volunteer initiatives can further tap into the experience and skills within its older population, fostering social connections and contributing to the local economy in non-traditional ways.
However, embracing the Longevity Economy in Los Gatos also presents challenges. Affordability is a concern. While the town boasts a high median household income, many seniors on fixed incomes struggle with the increasing costs of living, particularly in housing and healthcare. Ensuring equitable access to the opportunities of the Longevity Economy requires proactive measures, such as exploring affordable senior housing options, providing financial assistance programs, and supporting access to affordable healthcare services.
Transportation is another consideration. Maintaining mobility is key to enabling older adults to remain active, engaged, and independent. Los Gatos needs to ensure robust and accessible transportation options for seniors, connecting them to essential services, social activities, and employment opportunities. The RYDE program is a positive measure, but initiatives to expand and tailor transportation services to the specific needs of Los Gatos seniors is vital.
Scott also highlights the importance of lifelong learning; Los Gatos needs to adapt its educational and recreational offerings to cater to the diverse interests and needs of its older population. The partnership between the Town and LGS Recreation in providing senior services is a strong foundation. Expanding these programs to include more opportunities for skill development, lifelong learning, and intergenerational engagement will enrich the lives of older adults and contribute to a more dynamic community.
Scott's Longevity Economy framework offers a powerful and optimistic vision for the future, one that Los Gatos is well-positioned to embrace. By recognizing the economic potential of its growing older adult population, fostering opportunities for their continued engagement and productivity, and addressing the challenges of affordability and accessibility, Los Gatos can ensure the well-being of its senior residents and build a more resilient, vibrant, and prosperous community for all ages. The shift in perspective from an “aging society” to a “longevity society” is a call to action to unlock the immense potential that lies within our
Directory Services
CULTURAL HAPPENINGS A variety of free activities have been planned for May 25 in San Jose at St. James Park to mark Africa Day.
LOS GATOS NONPROFIT PLANS SERIES OF CELEBRATIONS FOR AFRICA DAY
Festivities include dinner in Los Gatos, SJ gathering
Staff Report
To celebrate Africa Day, the Los Gatos nonprofit AW is debuting an art exhibit in San Francisco titled “Unhin-
which spotlights disparities in housing, digital access and mental health in the region.
“This exhibition embraces the unconventional, drawing from the overlooked and the unexpected,” said Phillips. “Through art, we transform struggle into communal learning—and where
WORK CONTINUES
Surfnet, from page 11
if a nonprofit owns that network,’” she said. “It’s really exciting to see that finally come to fruition.”
These days, Gildea added, internet is key to life in the mountains.
“It’s no longer a luxury,” she said. “It’s a necessity.”
Poor service has been a huge frustration for many rural residents, Gildea notes.
“Silicon Valley is right there,” she said. “But there are these pockets where people still don’t have access.”
In June 2024, Surfnet won $10.1 in funding from the CPUC to build-out internet in Santa Cruz, Santa Clara and San Luis Obispo counties.
It won $4.3 million in September 2024, in partnership with CBA, from the CPUC for Santa Cruz Mountains for 1,423 people in rural Santa Cruz County. That month it also won $2.6 million— again in partnership with CBA—from CPUC for Santa Cruz Mountains service (covering an area east of the Lexington Reservoir in Santa Clara County).
In October 2024, Surfnet secured another $6.2 million in partnership with CBA from the CPUC for SLO County.
Darcie Houck, who was appointed to the CPUC by Gavin Newsom, said the broadband upgrades are part of making sure no one is left behind in the digital age.
She credited the California Department of Technology, Caltrans, the Department Housing and Community Development, and local and tribal governments for contributing to the statewide push to improve internet access.
“I’m just really honored to be here today,” she said.
Phase 1 locations include Apple Hill Road, Deerfield Road, Del Monte Way, Evergreen Lane, Forest Drive, Highland Way, Loma Prieta Avenue, Mount Bache Road, Radonich Road, Summit Road, Sunset Drive and Spanish Ranch (all of these are east of Highway 17).
Phase 2 construction is underway west of Highway 17— along Baldwin Drive, Blue Mountain Road, Call of the Wild Road, Gillette Drive, Greenwood Drive, Highland Way, Hutchinson Road, Melody Lane, Mountain Charlie Road, Norman Drive, Old Ranch Road, Old Santa Cruz Highway, Pineridge Way, Summit Road, Tahama Court, Burl Court, Citation Drive, Citation Court, Majestic Drive, Midpine Court, Montrose Court, Riva Ridge Road and Tim Tam Court.
Ad
Fictitious Business Name Statements
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME #715291
The following person(s) / registrant(s) has / have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s): Excel Dental Implant Center, 88 Tully Rd., #112, San Jose, CA, 95111, Peter D Nguyen DDS Professional Dental Corporation. Filed in the Santa Clara County on 06/14/2014 under file No. 700743. This business was conducted by: A Corporation. Filed on 04/09/2025. /s/Peter Nguyen. (pub dates: LGN 04/23, 04/30, 05/07, 05/14/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714946
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Stuffy Puffy Burger, 1670 Rogers Ave., San Jose, CA, 95112, Islam Elegiry. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Islam Elegiry. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/26/2025. (pub LGN 04/02, 04/09, 04/16, 04/23/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714626
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: CA-LINK International LLC (Beijing), 1329 Virginia Ave., Campbell, CA, 95008. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Above entity was formed in the state of Minnesota. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on Jan 05, 2021. /s/Shan Quan. Owner. #202101110002. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/17/2025. (pub LG 04/09, 04/16, 04/23, 04/30/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #715101
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. Real Estate Mortgage Insurance Services, 2. REMIS, 1601 Silver Ranch Ln., San Jose, CA, 95138, Dannie Le. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 08/02/2024. /s/Dannie Le. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/02/2025. (pub LG 04/09, 04/16, 04/23, 04/30)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #715062
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: BAFOUNDATIONINSPECTION.COM, 3379 Benton AVe., Santa Clara, CA, 95051, Jeff Alan Watt. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 03/28/2025. /s/Jeff Alan Watt. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/01/2025. (pub LGN 04/09, 04/16, 04/23, 04/30/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714954
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: ALCA Bussiness Consulting Services, 273 Wild Rose Way, Milpitas, CA, 95035. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/01/2025. /s/Anna Lou. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/26/2025. (pub LGN 04/09, 04/16, 04/23, 04/30/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714868
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Aguilar Towing, 568 Hazel Dell Way, Apt #1, San Jose, CA, 95129, Antonio Aguilar. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 03/11/2015. /s/Antonio Aguilar. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/24/2025. (pub LG 04/09, 04/16, 04/23, 04/30/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #712377
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: LA Blue, 4814 Wellington Park Drive, San Jose, CA, 95136, Theadra Price Akinsete. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business
PUBLIC NOTICES
under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 12/30/2024. /s/Theadra Price Akinsete. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/02/2025. (pub Metro 04/16, 04/23, 04/30, 05/07/2025)
File Number: FBN715215. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: BREAKAWAY ARTIST PRODUCTIONS, 3429 Agate Dr. #2, Santa Clara, CA 95051. This business is conducted by: An Individual, CASSIDY RAE GUERRERO-BARRERA, 9631 Eagle Hills Way, Gilroy, CA 95020. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Not Applicable and 04/07/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Elaine Fader /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Cassidy Rae Guerrero-Barrera /s/. (Pub LGN: 04/16, 04/23, 04/30, 05/07/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #715120
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: H HVAC Services, 3870 Hust Glen Way, San Jose, CA, 95121, Vong Hy Nguyen. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/01/2019. /s/Vong Hy Nguyen. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/02/2025. (pub LG 04/16, 04/23, 04/30, 05/07/2025)
File Number: FBN715128 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: Authors for Nature , 258 Edelen Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95030. County: Santa Clara. This business is conducted by: An Individual. Kelsey Mae Sweetland, 258 Edelen Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95030. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on N/A and 04/02/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez, Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, 1st Floor, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Kelsey Mae Sweetland. (Pub LGN 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #715377
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Horsefeather, 855 El Camino Real Suite 151, Palo Alto, CA, 94301, Easy, There LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Tiffany Yam. Owner. #202354211349. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 04/11/2025. (pub LGN 04/23, 04/30, 05/07, 05/14/2025)
File Number: FBN715204. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: Ours Floral Studio, 2203 Good Samaritan Dr, San Jose, CA 95124. County: Santa Clara. This business is conducted by: An Individual. Sungkyung Kim, 2203 Good Samaritan Dr, San Jose, CA 95124. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/09/2025 and 04/04/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena, Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, 1st Floor, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Sungkyung Kim. (Pub LGN 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14)
File Number: FBN715495. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. AMERICA’S BEST MARTIAL ARTS OF SUNNYVALE, 2. AMERICA’S BEST KARATE , 576 South Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086586. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, AMERICA’s BEST MARTIAL ARTS OF SUNNYVALE, LLC, 576 South Murphy Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94086586. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/01/2008 and 04/16/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Fraulein Dominguez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. America’s Best Martial Arts of Sunnyvale, LLC, Article/Reg # 201435410223, Above Entity was Formed in the State of CA. /s/ Todd Penner /s/ Owner. (Pub LGN: 04/23, 04/30, 05/07, 05/14/2025)
legals@losgatan.com
File Number: FBN714115. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: LANGARICA PLASTERING SERVICES, 2814 Joseph Ave Apt 3, Campbell, CA 95008. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, LANGARICA WALL DESIGN INC, 2814 Joseph Ave Apt 3, Campbell, CA 95008. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 02/27/2025 and 02/27/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. Langarica Wall Design Inc, Article/Reg # 6078944, Above Entity was Formed in the State of CA. /s/ Saul Langarica Jr /s/ President. (Pub LGN: 04/09, 04/16, 04/23, 04/30/2025)
File Number: FBN715161 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: AIRWOLF AERIAL DRONE COMPANY, 5669 Snell Ave 131, San Jose, CA 95123. This business is conducted by: An Individual, LARRY EDWARD LOZANO, 5669 Snell Ave 131, San Jose, CA 95123. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 09/15/2024 and 04/03/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Nina Khamphilath /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Larry E Lozano /s/. (Pub LGN: 04/23, 04/30, 05/07, 05/14/2025)
Administer Estate
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Paula Louise Patty. Case No. 25PR199498. To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of (specify all names by which the decedent was known): Paula Louise Patty, also known as Paula Louise Scholpp and Paula Louise Applegate. A Petition for Probate has been filed by James E. Patty II and Connor W. Patty in the Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. The petition for probate requests that: James E. Patty II and Connor W. Patty be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. The petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court as follows: Date: 5/8/2025. Time: 9:01 AM. Dept: 2. Address of the court: Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara, 191 N. First Street, San Jose, California, 95113. If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner: Brian L. Shetler/Jeanette Martinez. 10 Almaden Boulevard, 11th Floor, San Jose, CA 95113. (408) 286-5800. (Pub LGN 4/9, 4/16, 4/23)
