HIDDEN WORLD IN REDWOODS FOR WEDDINGS AND EVENTS LOOKS AHEAD
The location has been visited by celebrities like Ashley Greene and Nicholas Cage
Faizi Samadani, Contributor
The engulfing redwoods that surround Los Gatos are a bit of an enigma. You can’t help but wonder what lies beyond the greenery.
And not too far out of town, there’s a unique venue on 180 acres, known as Nestldown, that’s played upon this sense of mystery since 1991.
The land has garnered a reputation as a wedding venue that’s hosted global names. However, the owners of Nestldown, Barbara and Mark Beck, want the community to know that, despite the occasional celebrity visit, the location offers something for everyone.
Early images of the land purchased in 1991 depict not much more than ruffled redwoods. “We were looking for a place with rarified air—with a map that oversaw 35 acres—to house a barn, a baseball field, a tennis court and a giant treehouse,” says Barbara, as she
BARNES
&
NOBLE
SOLICITS BIDS FOR LOS GATOS REMODEL
Largest US book retailer making plans for site near indie bookseller
Dinah Cotton, Drew Penner and Faizi Samadani
America’s largest book retailer, Barnes & Noble, has been soliciting bids for remodel work for a downtown Los Gatos location it has in the works—three blocks away from where independent shop Beyond Text Bookstore opened less than a year ago. According to a listing on the PlanHub contractor platform, the corporation wants to spruce-up 6,806 square feet of commercial space at 122 N. Santa Cruz Ave., the former home of Williams-Sonoma.
THE BILL LISTER TEAM
THE BILLLISTER TEAM
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THE BILLLISTER TEAM
2555 BENSON AVE, SANTA CRUZ
$2,695,000
4 BEDS | 3.5 BATHS | +-3,809 Sq. Ft.
Custom home in Santa Cruz spans 3,809 Sq Ft on a lot exceeding 10,000 Sq Ft Gorgeous ocean & Monterey Bay views.
PENDING
2906 LEXFORD AVE, SAN JOSE
$1,795,000
3 BEDS | 2 BATHS | +-1,176 SQ.FT.
Exquisite remodeled one level home centrally located in Willow Glen on the Cambrian border. Close commute location to all freeways, shopping, parks, downtown Willow Glen & Downtown Campbell.
Premier, Top1% of Coldwell Banker Agents Worldwide #1 Small Team in the Los Gatos Office
Voted 2024 Best Real Estate Agent of Los Gatos
Top Producer on the 2011-2025 WSJ List
5494 MARY JO CT, SAN JOSE
$1,749,000
3 BEDS | 2 BATHS | +-1,066 SQ.FT.
Welcome to this wonderful ranch style home situated on a quiet cul-de-sac with dramatic mountain views. Centrally located on a huge sunny corner lot of over 8000 square feet and plenty of expansion and development possibilities.
PENDING
4 BEDS | 3 BATHS | +-2,931 SQ.FT 2.32 ACRES LOT
One story sprawling California ranch style home on almost 2.5 flat acres. Situated on a tree lined street with many other Estate homes Detached 16 car garage with 4 separate doors. Great for contractors with trucks and car collectors!
1603 DARWIN ST, SEASIDE
$795,000
3BEDS | 1.5BATHS | +-1,040 SQ.FT
Welcome to this charming one story ranch style home located in upper Seaside. The Remodeled kitchen boasts slab granite counters, gas cook top/oven range, refrigerator, tiled floor, and recessed lighting Close to all major shopping, commute routes, and beaches. Short drive to Monterey, Carmel, Pebble Beach. Easy access to SC and SV.
PENDING
SANTELLA COURT, LOS GATOS $6,895,000 5 BEDS |7 BATHS | +- 6,194 SQ. FT. Nestled in the serene beauty of Los Gatos, where luxury meets nature in a stunning Mediterranean-style home. This architectural gem draws you in with its charming design and rich list of amenities.
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‘ARTNOW’ EVENT SHINES SPOTLIGHT ON UP-AND-COMING CROP OF YOUNG ARTISTS
Since 2012, NUMU has held the exhibition to highlight artwork by high schoolers
Aradhita Singh, Intern
As you walk through the gallery of New Museum Los Gatos, vivid colors and images stick out and form a mosaic of different perspectives and stories. The gallery’s spring exhibition highlights Santa Clara County’s best student artists that submitted to “ArtNow”—this year’s theme is “dreamscapes.” All 700+ entries responded to the prompt, “How can art reflect our dreams, and how do our dreams reflect our hopes, fears, values, envi -
ronment, and aspirations?” have been reviewed carefully by the council of the museum and narrowed down to 83 pieces, which are currently on display in the main gallery. Of the 83, the responses that resonate the most with the audience will be awarded prizes, including $10,000+ in scholarships and other awards.
During the VIP Preview, guests were invited to stroll through the gallery and observe the artwork complete with labels, which were the students’ written responses to describe their work. After some time in the gallery, everyone was ushered downstairs to listen to speeches from the museum workers, ArtNow Teen Council mem-
ber Anuhya Gottam (a Valley Christian High School senior), three teachers of some exhibited students and Mayor Matthew Hudes.
Gottam spoke on how she has grown as a person and an artist through being an intern at New Museum. All teachers expressed their gratitude for “ArtNow” and the opportunity it gives students as well as the museum’s support in making sure all students have enough time to complete their submission. From the mayor, the audience learned of the museum’s positive impact on the community and the important place art holds in Los Gatos. Each speech highlighted the hard work every student has put in and the exhibition’s positive impact on the art community.
The event cements the unity of the art community. “What I find especially inspiring is how, even in the face of competition and the pressures of pro-
ductivity, the community continues to thrive with such vibrant imagination. It’s a beautiful reminder of what we can achieve together,” said Amy Pan, from Saratoga High School, one of the exhibiting artists. Pan has been exhibited at “ArtNow” for the past three years. Since 2012, “ArtNow” has given teen artists in Santa Clara County the opportunity to experience the real world of art by hosting a judged art competition. The competition features a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, mixed media and digital art and animation. The theme is sent out in October and submissions are allowed from the beginning of November to the end of February. After receiving all submissions, the museum curators begin a process of narrowing down the submissions and choosing which pieces will be exhibited in the gallery. The exhibition officially opened to the public on April 4.
RENOVATION Morning Rotary recently assisted Gallery 24, which has been temporarily closed, with wall patching and painting. The 24 N Santa Cruz Ave. space was scheduled to reopen today.
CHARCOAL CLASS Renowned portrait artist John Robert Peck working with his Tuesday evening charcoal drawing class at the Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company. Workshops are offered thru NUMU, too, and commissions are accepted. Peck works in oils as well as charcoal.
PAINTING REALITY Aundy Pekelsma responds to the brutal truths of society with a graphic acrylic painting.
Photo by Aradhita Singh / Art by Aundy Pekelsma
/ Los Gatan
Cotton
Gatan
SITE HAS BEEN A FILMING LOCATION FOR ‘THE BACHELOR’
Nestldown, from page 1
describes how some of their early plans turned out.
“Initially, we wanted this place to be for every kid in the mountains to come and play and camp, so the first places we made were the barn and the playground.”
Right before the site was purchased, the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake collapsed a barn. Both Barbara and Mark took that as a warning to ensure that structural requirements were met when erecting the current one.
The new barn was built to withstand a magnitude eight earthquake. Barbara says it was important to her that kids have a place to play safely.
“This is a place for children—that’s how it started,” says Barbara. Constructed with 96 concrete friction piers that extend 20 feet beneath the ground, over the years they’ve had private receptions, movie nights, cooking
classes and memorials inside.
In 1999, Barbara, who served as head for HR as Cisco (she was the 38th employee), sold her stock options. Those resources allowed the Becks to extend their holdings to 180 acres—all the way down into the canyon. Their dreams began to come to life.
All aboard the train
A view of the land, which can be experienced by train, takes visitors to several 10-foot-tall sandcastles produced by professional sand sculptor Kirk Rademaker, which have been maintained for eight years. There’s also a large iron dragon under a maze of hedges that leads to a cottage playing Disney theme tunes.
Designed by husband Mark, the cottage was crafted as a fun thing for kids
see the emotions of the family members. We had horses, paintball guns, trains and golf carts with about 150 people, which continued to grow every year. These kids hadn't laughed in so long. That did something to us."
Barbara was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 20. This was followed by a-year-and-a-half of chemotherapy. “When we first began dating, Barbara told me there is no future in dating her and that she only has five years,” Mark says.
Nestldown’s effervescent beauty is a testament to Mark and Barbara’s labor of love towards one another, which is now on display for the entire public. Good things take time, and with aspirations come setbacks.
For years, the Becks struggled with county permitting requirements, something many other Santa Cruz Mountains residents will find familiar. However, they eventually made it out to the other side. “Sixteen years in, the county came knocking,” according to its website. “So began a ten-year ordeal to obtain the right permits to operate as a venue — a costly and hair-pulling process.”
Then came Covid, when more than 100 weddings were canceled or rescheduled and Nestldown encountered some disputes with couples who went public with complaints about unreturned deposits.
but ended up being one of the central attractions for all. “We have 19,000 tulips housed on our land, but Barbara says she wants more,” laughs Mark, explaining how their approach to developing the property differs.
They started dating 45 years ago. And they’ve come up with a familiar pattern of teamwork to realize one idea or another. Typically, Barbara will see something she’s drawn to, then, Mark finds a way to make the vision come to life.
“We’ve treated it like a family compound, but it's really a business,” says Barbara.
From 2010 to 2020, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital held a camp several times a year at Nestldown. “A lot of the brothers or sisters didn't laugh or smile in a very long time because they had siblings that had cancer. We would watch them from the back and
The county published a notice of a tax default in September 2020, noting unpaid taxes as of 2017 of $243,033.28. The Becks survived the tax and cash flow difficulties from canceled events, assisted by $568,009 in federal pandemic PPP loans that were subsequently forgiven, according to public documents.
Both Barbara and Mark say that they aren’t going anywhere. In many ways, they add, they’re just getting started. Barbara remembers when she first stepped foot in the garden that’s now known as the Chapel. It serves as a spot for ceremonies with a turquoise pond in the background, seen through draping wisterias. “Honestly, this is going to sound crazy, but I always thought there was a spirit of the land here—standing at the Chapel, under a redwood tree, next to the water,” Barbara reflects, noting the only issue was the noise from the traffic. That sound “was the wind and the trees,” Mark offers, playfully.
The Becks describe how they’ve
CHOO-CHOO The Becks say they've ordered a new steam engine and are planning a track extension.
A FAIRYTALE LAND IS CLOSER THAN YOU MIGHT THINK
Into the deep, mysterious forest with the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce
Dinah
Cotton, Contributor
Once upon a time in a land, not so far away from the enchanting town of Los Gatos, an apple and stone fruit tree farm lay neglected and dormant. Nearby these orchards in the redwood glen, the trees were resting and waiting. All of the trees within this hidden kingdom would whisper stories to the wind of days gone by, telling of their dreams of tender loving care.
This is where our story begins: 35 years ago when Barbara and Mark Beck began to leave their mark on the landscape.
In the early dot-com days, a young married couple with two small children had conjured up a vision: buy some land that was suitable to raise their children, and invite other kids
Adto come and play. “We wanted a place that every kid in the mountains could come to, and our children would be safe and happy,” Barbara says.
Realtors were consulted. A Santa Cruz Mountains map was inspected. Just where in the fresh air of these hills would be suitable? Would a neglected fruit orchard, with a decrepit house and a barn that had fallen down upon itself work? They found it a tad unappealing.
On the second tour, the Beck’s noticed a grove and went to see what might be under the redwood canopy near the lake. It was here that the trees summoned their courage and whispered to Barbara, This is the place. She wept gently and then turned to her husband Mark. “This is the place,” she repeated. And they promptly purchased the 36 acres.
A land of fantasy
“We built the fantasy garden and playhouse first,” Barbara says. Around this time she met up with Alrie Middlebrook, who helped create a whimsical Nestldown garden. A Never-Never Land feeling was achieved by turning a run-down orchard into an enchanting combination of native plants and trees.
ANYBODY HOME? The Beck's Granddaughter Audrey Einfalt, 3, welcomes us into Cinderella's Fantasy Cottage at Nestldown.
COMMUNITY EASTER EGG HUNT PLANNED
Nestldown, from page 6
seen people gain such positive energy from their visit to the unique site that they can’t help but want to return one day. “People come from Paris and around the world to see these redwoods that only grow from Carmel to the Oregon border,” Mark says. “We don't like to say we’re owners—we're stewards. We’re not here forever. We learned that we can leave something that will still be here in 50 years,” Mark says.
The Community and Beyond
“I designed that train 25 years ago,” Mark says. “And now, we're waiting for a new steam train to arrive that is built by the company that makes trains for Disneyland.” They’re now looking at extending the track even further. Over the years, Nestldown has hosted a wide array of guests from Fortune 500 companies, to celebrity weddings, such as for Ashley Greene and Nicholas Cage. Even Jimmy Kim -
mel’s wife’s sister got married there, and the “Jimmy Kimmel Live” host was entertaining his own kids on the grounds, they said. Fifteen years ago, “The Bachelor” television show filmed an episode in the barn. Despite all the name dropping, the Becks say a key part of the operation is that the land is open to the community. Easter egg hunts, Mother’s Day brunch and family-friendly events are on the horizon. One of Nestldown’s programs is a nonprofit run by their daughter Alexandra, offering referral-based therapy for individuals with social anxiety or a history of being bullied. “We sell out our weekends a year in advance, but we’ve always said that for police officers, teachers or government officials, we would make it work for them to afford our place,” Barbara says.
Their daughter Diana says she was drawn to maintain the land by witnessing her parents’ attentiveness to their clientele. “I learned how to drive on the golf carts when I was a child,” Diana says with a laugh. “We were nonprofit-heavy in the start, with less weddings. I had a career in recruiting. But what drove me back here was my love for my parents.
“I’m protective of them, and that comes from witnessing their caretaking of others since I was a child,” she says. In 2023, Cancer CAREpoint held a fundraiser at Nestldown, which raised more than $1 million.
The Becks also operate a horseriding program as a 501c3 nonprofit, the stated purpose of which is, “To provide therapeutic horseback riding experiences for autistic children,” accordingto the organization’s Form 990.
REGAL There are multiple sandcastles on the property by sculptor Kirk Rademaker.
CHESS ANYONE? There are plenty of activities to keep people entertained on the grounds.
OLD SCHOOL The greenery almost seems to come to life.
DEADLINE Today is the last day for bids on the Los Gatos Barnes & Noble remodel of the former Williams-Sonoma space along North Santa Cruz Avenue downtown.
BARNES & NOBLE COMING TO LOS GATOS
B&N, from page 1
The deadline for bids? April 9.
Tanya Sedneva, the founder of Be yond Text, located at 318 N. Santa Cruz Ave., has been looking forward to mark ing a challenging but thrilling year of running her business in a few weeks.
She learned about the corporate chain’s plans from the Los Gatos Cham ber of Commerce several weeks ago.
“I’m upset,” she said. “I need some time to think what I can do.”
Los Gatos resident Karen Vincent, an avid reader of travel content, was intrigued by the news.
“I welcome Barnes & Noble,” she said. “I feel that Los Gatos will, too.”
It's been more than a decade since Borders Bookstore closed its doors in Old Town, due to its parent company filing for bankruptcy protection.
Barnes & Noble, which has been in business since 1886, acquired some of that chain’s assets in September 2011.
Over the coming year, Barnes & Nobles has announced plans to open 60 new bookstores, beating their last year's record of 57.
Despite rapid growth, the company is also shuttering locations—for example its
SPORTS
NINE ATHLETES EARN THEIR WAY INTO LGHS HOF
Induction Ceremony takes place May 3 at La Rinconada CC
Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor
Nick Kalpin couldn’t believe his former football coach, Butch Cattolico, was on the other line.
The two are all-time greats in the storied Los Gatos High School football program—Cattolico as a coach and Kalpin as a running back. When Cattolico called Kalpin last December to notify him of his selection as a 2025 LGHS Athletic Hall of Fame inductee, Kalpin was flabbergasted—but not for the reason one might think.
“He called me and said, ‘Hey this is coach Cattolico,’” Kalpin said. “I'm like, ‘what the heck?’ He sounded so much different. I guess all those years of him yelling at me finally caught up to him.”
The affable Kalpin is part of a star-studded HOF class that includes
Robert Harris (class of 1933), Steve Bauer (1974), Vince Baxter (1978), Ali Dodson (2004), Jaimee Erickson (2007), Geoff Doss (2008), Erich Peske (2011), and Taylor Comeau (2011). They will be honored at the Induction Ceremony May 3 at La Rinconada Country Club.
Harris competed in basketball, track and tennis; Bauer in football, basketball and swimming; Baxter in golf; Dodson in track and soccer; Erickson in field hockey and track; Doss in wrestling; Peske in swimming and Comeau in field hockey and soccer.
Kalpin, a 2008 graduate, also competed in baseball and wrestling. However, it was Kalpin’s accomplishments on the gridiron that left onlookers shaking their heads in amazement. During his senior season, Kalpin set Santa Clara County single-season records in rushing (2,553 yards in 312 carries) and scoring (41 touchdowns).
Incredibly enough, Kalpin managed
was the best thing for me that I stuck with it. I was good at it, too.”
Indeed, Kalpin advanced to the CIF State Wrestling Championships in his junior year and fell one match shy of repeating that feat in his senior season. Due to a neck injury he suffered during football season, Kalpin missed the first six weeks of the all-important conditioning period for the buildup to his final wrestling campaign, though, ever being the straight shooter, Kalpin didn’t make that as an excuse for failing to reach State.
“In wrestling I did the bare minimum, and I think that caught up to me,” he said. “I think the coaches knew I did the bare minimum, too. We’ll find out when I talk to them (at the induction ceremony).”
Kalpin can’t wait to commiserate with Cattolico—who will emcee the event—and with Doss, his former wrestling teammate. Kalpin and Doss grew up together, played on the same Double-AA Little League team and were wrestling teammates starting in middle school.
“The whole time we were good friends,” Kalpin said. “And even after (our college days) we played a little slow pitch softball together.”
Kalpin noted his family history in LGHS athletics makes his HOF induction all the more rewarding.
to set those records in limited action, as Los Gatos often built up huge leads by halftime and had second- and third-string players finishing out the final two quarters of action.
“I didn’t even play many second halves,” he said. “I remember one game I was taken out halfway through the first quarter and thinking this was boring.”
Kalpin also made a huge impact as a ball-hawking safety, resulting in a couple of pick-6s. However, Kalpin said what stood out the most from his athletic career—ironically enough—came in the sport he liked the least: wrestling.
“Football was fun but what stands out the most was me not quitting wrestling,” he said. “I wanted to quit so bad, but my parents didn’t let me and my coaches didn’t let me. Looking back, I think about the fun I had in football and baseball and winning CCS in both sports. But there’s something different about wrestling. I hated it at the time, but looking back it
“It’s pretty special, especially with my family history being in Los Gatos,” he said. “My grandpa was the class of 1960 and a bunch of my uncles went to Los Gatos, so this is pretty meaningful.”
After graduating from LGHS, Kalpin played for three years at Portland State before finishing out his senior season at Humboldt State. After that, Kalpin came back home and worked at a local concrete company before starting his career for the Town of Los Gatos, where he now serves as the Lead Parks and Maintenance Worker.
“I live in Scotts Valley but I’m pretty much in town everyday for work, so it’s pretty awesome,” he said.
NOTE: The LGHS Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony is May 3 at La Rinconada Country Club. Tickets can be purchased online at GoFan.co or at gofan.co/ event/3089485?schoolId=CA22963.
RECORD BREAKER Nick Kalpin is one of nine members who will be honored at the LGHS Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony May 3 at La Rinconada Country Club.
CHAMBER MIXER
Chamber, from page 7
The Nestldown that we know today began as; a desire for a fun, safe and garden area with a fantasy playhouse for children. Here in this wonderland fantasy is a common occurrence and reality slips back to non existence.
“As the years passed, Nestldown’s gardens evolved to expose the healing, restorative place we felt on that first day,” reads their website. “We hosted events for nonprofits, and respite days for doctors, nurses, social workers and families who had lost a loved one. From that, people began asking to hold their weddings here. We said yes, and yes again.”
I only learned of this “Once upon a time” land when the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce held a business mixer on March 21. I—as well as many of the Chamber members (including many long-time residents)—had not previously known of Nestldown (though I have a “Save the date” notice for a wedding, set to take place there, next year).
Community activities seem to be the focus of their current marketing efforts (think rehearsal dinners, corporate retreats, and so on). If you wish to hold an event here you get the entire estate. As Barbra said, “We make it work.”Nestldown's peaceful pond bordered by trees is within Greater Silicon Valley
Let us help you with your next rebranding, product launch, media campaign, digital initiative, website redesign or image refresh. identity + strategy + design Let us help you with your next rebranding, product launch, media campaign, digital initiative, website redesign or image refresh.
WATERY SOLACE Nestldown's peaceful pond bordered by trees is within Greater Silicon Valley.
LOS GATOS IN THE LAB
A helpful thought experiment on thematic identity
Jeffrey P. Blum , Contributor
Please indulge me as I dive into this puzzle of Los Gatos and its potential identity. As someone who's read books about the atomic bomb, the enigmatic Oppenheimer, and the playful genius of Feynman (though I wouldn't dare call myself a scientist!), I've come to appreciate the power of a central idea, a unifying principle. That got me thinking: could Los Gatos benefit from a more pronounced, well-articulated theme?
Our hypothesis: A defined theme could enhance Los Gatos' appeal and identity
This exercise isn't exactly splitting the atom or unraveling the mysteries of quantum electrodynamics. However, just like a well-designed experiment needs a clear hypothesis to guide its investigation, a town's identity can be
sharpened and its appeal amplified by a central theme.
Examining the scientific record (Well, sort of)
While there isn't a peer-reviewed journal dedicated solely to the thematic branding of small California towns, we can draw inspiration from various fields. Think about marketing and branding principles – successful brands often have a clear and consistent message. Consider urban planning – towns with a strong sense of place often have a defining characteristic, whether it's historical architecture, a vibrant arts scene, or a connection to nature. Even social psychology offers insights into how shared identities foster community and belonging.
Los Gatos is a town brimming with potential themes. Its natural beauty is undeniable, with the Santa Cruz Mountains providing a stunning backdrop and numerous parks and trails inviting exploration. History calls from its Victorian architecture and the tales of its early days as a lumber town and fruit-growing region. The downtown area lends itself to
enhance the vibrant downtown. Initiatives to support local businesses, create more pedestrian-only zones, and host more street fairs and farmers' markets could strengthen this identity. This theme would appeal to those seeking a strong sense of community and a convenient, carlight lifestyle.
• The "Purr-fectly Playful" theme (Embracing the cats): This one's more whimsical, and perhaps this is where my inner Feynman is showing! Imagine nods to the feline namesake throughout the town – perhaps more art installations of stylized cats, local businesses adopting cat-related names or logos (tastefully done, of course!), or even a lighthearted annual "Cat Fest" celebrating all things feline (minus the stray cat problem!). This could give Los Gatos a unique and memorable quirkiness.
The challenge of choosing (And my nonscientist musings)
walkability, encouraging a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle and a strong sense of community. And, of course, there's the name itself – "Los Gatos," the cats – a playful moniker that hints at a unique identity.
Applying potential themes:
A thought experiment
Here are some possibilities:
• The "Nature's Embrace" theme: Imagine Los Gatos embracing its natural setting. Trails could be further enhanced and interconnected, emphasizing outdoor recreation. Architectural guidelines could subtly incorporate natural elements. Festivals celebrating the changing seasons and local flora and fauna could become signature events. This theme would appeal to nature lovers and those seeking an active lifestyle.
• The "Victorian Charm" theme: Los Gatos boasts beautiful Victorian architecture. A theme centered around this could involve preserving and celebrating these historical gems. Perhaps guided walking tours highlighting the town's past, antique fairs, and even a Victorian-themed festival could draw history buffs.
• The "Walkable Heart" theme: Focusing on walkability could further
Just like designing a complex experiment with multiple variables, choosing the right theme for Los Gatos presents its own challenges. What resonates most with the community? What aligns with the town's existing character and assets? What has the potential to attract visitors without feeling contrived?
As someone who's merely read about scientific rigor, I appreciate the need for careful consideration and perhaps even some community "data gathering." You wouldn't just bombard atoms without a plan. Similarly, you wouldn't want to impose a theme on a town that doesn't feel authentic.
Conclusion (My unofficial findings)
Although I haven’t conducted rigorous statistical analysis or developed a grand unified theory of town theming, my exploration suggests that Los Gatos could indeed benefit from a more consciously cultivated theme. Whether it leans into its natural beauty, celebrates its history, emphasizes its walkability, or embraces its name, a defined identity could strengthen its appeal and create a more cohesive sense of place.
Ultimately, the "best" theme would be one that genuinely reflects the spirit of Los Gatos and resonates with people. It's fun to hypothesize! Just like figuring out how the universe works, with slightly less explosive potential.
SPRING FLOWERS Dendrobium orchids strut their stuff along San Mateo Avenue.
Ad NO CONVICTIONS IN SHERIFF’S OFFICE BRIBERY CRIMINAL CASE
Jensen and Moyer found not guilty; mistrial declared for former undersheriff
Barry Holtzclaw, San Jose Inside Santa Clara County Superior Court jury acquitted two men April 3 in the last case stemming from the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office alleged bribery scandal over concealed gun permits. The jury couldn’t reach a verdict on a third defendant.
Former Sheriff’s Capt. James Jensen and former security firm executive Thomas Moyer were found not guilty. A mistrial was declared for former undersheriff Rick Sung.
The trial began March 6 in San Jose, Jensen was convicted on related charges last July and sentenced in December to 10 months in jail—in connection with a corruption scandal over the issuing of concealed-gun licenses that ultimately resulted in the resignation of former Sheriff Laurie Smith.
Prosecutors had characterized the scandal as a years-long pay-to-play scheme in which the sheriff’s office, under Smith, allegedly traded concealed-carry weapon permits for political donations, favors and other inkind support.
After the verdict was announced, District Attorney Jeff Rosen issued this statement:
“We respect the jury’s determination. We remain proud of our office’s investigation because it resulted in several related convictions as well as improvements at the Sheriff’s Office and in how concealed firearms permits are handled. We remain committed to rooting out this type of corruption wherever it may lie.”
Then yesterday, the DA’s Office announced former San Jose City Councilmember Omar Torres had been convicted of sexually molesting a minor in 1999.
Torres pleaded no contest to sodomy and oral copulation by force, violence, duress, menace or fear, and lewd and lascivious acts on a minor under the age of 14.
PUBLIC NOTICES
Fictitious Business Name Statements
File Number: FBN714156. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: A HERO DRIVING SCHOOL , 80 Gilman Ave Suite 31 A, Campbell, CA 95008. This business is conducted by: An Individual, TAWFIQ ASAD, 17298 Reunion Ct, Lathrop, CA 95330. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 02/28/2025 and 02/28/2025 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. /s/ Tawfiq Asad /s/. (Pub LGN: 03/12, 03/19, 03/26, 04/02/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714405
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: LaVoie Acupuncture, 1054 Courtland Ave., Milpitas, CA, 95035, Derek K. Lavoie. This business is being conducted by an individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Derek K. Lavoie. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/11/2025. (pub LG 03/19, 03/26, 04/02, 04/09/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714327
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: PMI Willow Glen, 4414 Stone Canyon Drive, San Jose, CA, 95136, Willow Glen Corp. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 3/7/25. /s/Nabeel William Khashan. President. #6454803 This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/07/2025. (pub LG 03/19, 03/26, 04/02, 04/09/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714475
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 2 The Core Cleaning Services, 1990 Lavender Way, Gilroy, CA, 95020, Lucia C Franco. This business is being conducted by a, Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 03/12/2025. /s/Lucia C Franco. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/12/2025. (pub LG 03/19, 03/26, 04/02, 04/09/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714301
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Loan Factory, 2195 Tully Road, San Jose, CA, 95122, Loan Factory Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 10/01/2016. /s/Thuan Nguyen. President. #2887317. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/06/2025. (pub Metro 03/19, 03/26, 04/02, 04/09/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714496
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Best-2-own Homes, 20035 Orchard Meadow, Saratoga, CA, 95070, Summit Solutions Team Corp. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Above entity was formed in the state of California. Registrant has not begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Mehran Aminzadeh. President. #C3189805. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/12/2025. (pub Metro 03/26, 04/02, 04/09, 04/16/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714139
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Carlos Garage Door Services, 1064 Lincoln Ave., San Jose, CA, 95125, DA General Contractors Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. 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/Danny Atar. Owner. #C4717496. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/28/2025. (pub Metro 03/26, 04/02, 04/09, 04/16/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714061
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: The Michelada Lady, 701 Vine St., San Jose, CA, 95111, Katelynn Marie Dawson. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Katelynn Marie Dawson. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/25/2025. (pub LG 03/26, 04/02, 04/09, 04/16/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714755
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Baguinon Trucking, 1967 Anders Pl., Manteca, CA, 95337, Ryan Anas Baguinon. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/29/2020. /s/Ryan Anas Baguinon. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/20/2025. (pub Metro 03/26, 04/02, 04/09, 04/16/2025)
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 Metro 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 Metro 04/09, 04/16, 04/23, 04/30/2025)
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)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #714696
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Mike’s Signs, 308 N. Abbott Ave., Milpitas, CA, 95035, Michael J. Macias. This business is being conducted
legals@losgatan.com
by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 03/18/2025. /s/Michael J. Macias. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 03/19/2025. (pub Metro 03/26, 04/02, 04/09, 04/16/2025)
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 Metro 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)
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)
MARVELOUS REMODELED
Just Steps to Scenic 17 Acre Belgatos Park with Acres of Trails and Awesome Playground! • Blessed with Morning Sun, Rich Oak Floors Set the Stage Enhancing Formal Dining Room, Expansive Living Room with Fireplace and Built-In Bookcases! • Delightful Gourmet Kitchen Features Stunning Stone Counters+Breakfast Nook • Opening To Separate Family Room with Fireplace and French Doors to Covered Patio and Inviting Pool! • Separate JR ADU Adds a Multitude of Options.
Lucy Wedemeyer Broker
lucy@serenogroup.com
408-891-6861
DRE# 00640875
Keith Andry Associate/Broker
408-891-4151
keith@serenogroup.com
DRE# 01470
Extraordinary marketing expertise fueled with contagious enthusiasm de�nes Lucy Wedemeyer as a “RockStar” Real Estate Broker. She’s one of the most recognized and highly respected Realtors in the Bay Area, consistently awarded Top 1% distinction Keith Andry with a BS in Finance joined his Award-Winning Mother-in-Law in 2000.
As founding members of SERENO, they’ve curated an extensive network of professionals as an integral part of enhancing clients properties for market. Both exude unsurpassed pro-active visions as Brokers and Certi�ed Negotiation Experts; re�ective of 90% referral business as they strive to exceed expectations to accomplish client’s goals and dreams.
