Los Gatan July 19 2023

65 YEARS

SINGING GROUP CONTINUES THE CAMARADERIE AFTER

Mission Valley

Chorus encourages women to join

Alia Arafeh, Contributor

Entering Nordahl Hall in Los Gatos on a Tuesday night, you’ll most likely be greeted with the sound of harmonizing voices working together to create beautiful music. Women fill the rafters, possibly waving colorful flags around as a part of their warm up, dancing along to music or eagerly awaiting to sing their parts in the chorus.

This experience is what a typical rehearsal looks like for the Mission Valley Chorus, a women’s barbershop group based in the South Bay.

“We’re like Broadway on the risers,” said team coordinator Sarah Clish. “We incorporate choreography and movement into all our performances.”

The Mission Valley Chorus is a singing group that is a part of Sweet Adelines International, a larger organization that focuses on teaching people to sing in the barbershop style. The more than 50 women who are a part of the MVC meet every Tuesday night from 7:30-10:15pm to practice for their performances and work on their harmonies.

➝ Singing, 4

SUTTER HEALTH’S SPECIALTY CARE HOSPITAL OPENING SOON

Three-story facility near Los Gatos houses many different disciplines

Drew Penner, Reporter

When you walk through the automatic doors into the new 69,000-square-foot three-story Palo Alto Medical Foundation hospital on the edge of Los Gatos, you’re greeted by a cylindrical sculpture by Albert Dicruttalo called “Unity” and a mixed-media painting by Ivy Jacobs titled “150 Shades of Green.”

On Tuesday, cleaners power-washed the driveway and squeegeed the windows, in preparation for the hospital to spring to life, starting with the third floor, on July 24.

➝ Hospital, 14

shoe designer p8 : mlb drafts troy p12 : upcoming events p15 : ny times crossword puzzle p17

SUMMER CAMP West Valley Youth Theater is in the midst of its summer season, which included “Disney’s The Aristocats Kids.” For the story, turn to page 6.

Courtesy of West Valley Youth Theater

Call Me to Discuss Your Next Move in 2023

Once known as “Take A Chance Ranch” this delightful horse property is centrally located with numerous amenities. The home has been tastefully updated. Chef’s kitchen with center island/ breakfast bar, granite counters, informal dining area, stainless steel appliances, and pantry. Separate office with barn door. Formal living & dining room with high wood beamed ceiling. Primary suite with fireplace, 2-walk-in closets, stone surfaced bathroom, granite counter, and 2 sinks. 2 other bedrooms & loft with full bath. 3rd full bath on 1st floor. Wood floors throughout. Freshly painted interior. Separate barn with mini kitchen, full bath, high ceilings, slate floors, loft area, huge access door, 2 stalls, hay storage, 4 pastures, 2 paddocks, 1 round pen. Approximately 3 wonderful acres of gorgeous land.Year round stream & mountain views. Outdoor entertaining areas. Fenced yards. Plenty of space for oversized vehicles. Fully fenced property. Close to all major shopping.

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MEMBERS GATHER FROM NEAR AND FAR

Singing, from page 1

The Sweet Adelines have been around since 1945, when they were founded in Oklahoma, but are now divided into regions around the world. Mission Valley is part of the Pacific Shores Region and competes in competitions within those parameters. The group was founded in 1958 and has been an important community building spot for women around the South Bay since.

While the Chorus meets to practice in Los Gatos, members come from near and far to participate, with some driving more than 90 minutes oneway to attend rehearsals.

Modesto resident Dee DiDomenico makes such a commute to attend rehearsal once a week. While there are singing groups closer to where she lives, Mission Valley stands out for their strong community and multitude of members, she said.

“It’s better music, more people to sing with, and more people that want to practice singing in quartets,” DiDomenico said. “Everybody’s very friendly and warm and inviting.”

Despite some having to drive far, members of Mission Valley praise the group for their commitment to closeness and their acceptance of people from all different backgrounds. They prove their sense of community through monthly birthday celebrations, holiday parties and various other get-togethers.

Member Becky Maguire has been a part of Mission Valley for around eight ➝ Singing, 6

BEGGAR’S OPERA PERFORMS AT THE CATS

The Cats is open again and the music is back with Beggar’s Opera performing July 21 from 6:30-9:30pm with no cover charge. Beggar's Opera consists of Debra and Mark Harville, Tom Siebenthal and Robert Stemplinger performing many tunes from Clapton, Van Morrison, Little Feat, Bonnie Raitt, Tom Petty, The Pretenders, Dire Straits, Paul Simon and more. The Cats is located at 17533 Santa Cruz Highway in Los Gatos. For information, visit thecatslosgatos.com/event/beggars-opera.

TIGHT-KNIT COMMUNITY The Mission Valley Chorus was founded in 1958.

Courtesy of Carol Gerwitz

POLICE BLOTTER

JULY 9

• A woman was reportedly yelling near a pool on Forrest Avenue at 12:04am.

• Someone smashed a vehicle’s window on Royce Street.

• Two people in a vehicle reportedly approached a man on Garden Hill Drive in a vehicle and told him to “pray for their father.” They then proceeded to take the man’s gold necklace and replaced it with another necklace before driving away.

• A man was reportedly chasing and yelling at people on Winchester Boulevard at 10:26am.

• A man was reportedly hit by his neighbor with a traffic cone on Miles Avenue.

• A suspect was arrested for petty theft on University Avenue at 4:58pm.

• A wallet was reported stolen from an unlocked vehicle parked on Blossom Hill Road.

• A wallet and a backpack were stolen from a vehicle parked on Garden Hill Drive.

JULY 10

• A caller reported their upstairs neighbor was playing loud music at 12:30am. When they attempted to have them quiet down by tapping a broom on the ceiling, the neighbors reportedly responded by “stomping on the floor.”

• An unlocked vehicle was rummaged through on Garden Hill Drive.

• A handgun and a box of Pokemon cards were reported stolen from an unlocked vehicle parked on Farley Road.

• A man was reportedly throwing rocks at a building on Samaritan Drive at 8:57pm.

• A caller reported five teenagers for “being loud” at Bachman Park at 10:07pm.

JULY 11

• A shirtless man was reportedly going into stores on University Avenue at 10:22am and asking people to charge his vehicle’s battery.

• A man was arrested for reckless driving on the 14600 block of Winchester Boulevard at 10:44am.

• A shirtless man “appeared to be looking for trouble,” “glaring at people” on N. Santa Cruz Avenue and W. Main Street at 3:58pm.

• A man was arrested for shoplifting on the 15700 block of Los Gatos Boulevard at 9:02pm.

JULY 12

• A vehicle was reported stolen on Via Pinto.

• A woman was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol on Blossom Hill and Harwood roads at 3:33am.

• A house and vehicles were egged on Albert Drive.

• A group of teenagers were re portedly “making racist com ments” to staff at a business on S. Santa Cruz Avenue.

• A woman was arrested for vehi cle theft on Camelia Terrace and Longwood Drive at 1:15pm.

JULY 13

• Two adults pushed each other “just a nudge forward” on Blos som Hill Road.

• A man was arrested for present ing an officer with unlawful vehi cle registration and no proof of in surance on Union Avenue and Los Gatos Almaden Road at 3:45pm.

JULY

• A caller reported syringes in front of a store on N. Santa Cruz Avenue.

WEST VALLEY YOUTH THEATER’S SUMMER SEASON IS UNDERWAY

‘Rent’ opens July 20 at Leigh High theater

Ainsley Northrop, Contributor

West Valley Youth Theater (WVYT) is in the middle of its summer 2023 season, which includes four full-scale productions: “Disney’s The Aristocats Kids,” “Mean Girls Jr.,” “The Lightning Thief” and “Rent.” In contrast to many local theater groups, WVYT not only offers summer-long productions but also productions with a day-campstyle rehearsal process.

In June, WVYT’s team of dedicated staff members worked to put on two camp shows in Leigh High School’s theater. Bay Area children aged 7-11 performed in “The Aristocats Kids,” which rehearsed from 9am to 3pm for 10 days. Each day, staff worked with the children, teaching choreography, vocals, blocking and general theater skills.

In addition to directly rehearsing for their performance, campers engaged in group games and crafts. Each child decorated a hand-made foam instrument, which kids danced with while they performed the song “Everybody Wants to Be a Cat.”

“As someone who grew up doing WVYT and really benefited from it, it was amazing to be able to provide an intro to musical theater to these kids, especially the ones who were performing for the very first time,” said Tommy Wilkens, a 2023 Los Gatos High School graduate who directed the show. “I think that the production quality, scale of Leigh High School’s theater, and the resources that we had access to this year were great for the kids because they helped them have a unique, memorable experience.”

At the same time, 11- to 14-yearolds were hard at work preparing for their performance of “Mean Girls Jr.” Although they only had three weeks to patch the show together, the campers showcased immense dedication, chal-

CHORUS GEARS UP FOR GIANTS GAME

Singing, from page 4

years and has been a Sweet Adeline for more than 20 years. She joined Mission Valley after moving to the Bay Area in hopes of making new friends.

“I didn’t know a single soul when I moved out here,” Maguire said. “These ladies jump in and they’re welcoming, they call you, they make sure you’re OK. I feel like I walk into a room full of aunts.”

Their closeness was unwavered, even during the Covid-19 pandemic, during which practices were held on video calls and spirits were hard to keep up.

Having been a member of Mission Valley since 1991, Harriett Feltman has experienced all the ups and downs. While Covid-19 was a difficult time for the group, there were positives to meeting online.

“Covid has dealt us a big blow because singing was the worst thing you could do during Covid because it's an air-transmitted infection,” she said.

“Our choruses Zoomed the entire time and it was actually a good way to learn music and actually learn it in the right key because we always heard the right key playing back at us.”

lenging themselves to conquer difficult choreography.

“What I really like about coming back to WVYT is that this is somewhere where I learned a lot of things as a young person,” choreographer Katarina Kelly said. “It’s really special to be able to come back with lots of new ideas that I’ve learned from going to college and to be able to give it back to kids who I see myself in. I just love watching [the kids] grow throughout the process. Seeing them take something that was hard for them at the beginning and really be able to execute it well by the end of the process [is inspiring].”

Meanwhile, WVYT held rehearsals for its summer-long productions, which are both directed by Artistic Director Heather Stokes. Performers age 9 to 15 brought “The Lightning Thief” to Leigh High School’s stage from July 13-16. Based on Rick Riordan’s “Percy Jackson” novels, “The Lightning Thief” follows the journey of three friends as they search for Zeus’

missing lightning bolt and attempt to maintain peace among the Greek gods. This musical features classical Greek mythology and lovely ballads while also incorporating angsty rock music and action-packed battles.

The final show of this summer’s season is “Rent,” which features a cast of local high schoolers as well as recent high school graduates. Written and composed by Johnathan Larson, “Rent” follows a group of friends struggling to make a living in New York City. As they combat the hardships of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, they learn to cherish each other for who they are.

Although “The Aristocats Kids,” “Mean Girls Jr.” and “The Lightning Thief” are already in the books, tickets for “Rent” are still available at wvyt. org/tickets. “Rent” performances are July 20, 21, and 22.

In the coming year, keep an eye out for more WVYT productions as the company continues to extend itself to more Bay Area schools.

Currently, the Chorus strives to become a larger community presence and gain back the traction they lost during the pandemic. They host annual fundraisers, including a tea party around Christmas time, and are going to be performing the Star Spangled Banner at the San Jose Giants game on July 22. This will be their third year performing at the game, and they are hoping to make it a tradition.

The Chorus welcomes visitors to sit in on rehearsals on Tuesday nights and are looking for new members.

San Jose resident Deborah Calantropio-Covington was nervous to join but has always loved to sing. She highly encourages others to make the same decision and attend a rehearsal, whether or not they are confident in their singing abilities.

“If you want to expand your voice, if you want to also learn about the nuances of different styles of music, if you’re just looking to make new friends, it's great,” Calantropio-Covington said. “If you think you’re on the fence about it, just show up. Everyone here is really friendly and they’ll welcome you with open arms.”

ON STAGE West Valley Youth Theater’s “The Lightning Thief” recently wrapped up its run at Leigh High School’s theater.

Courtesy of West Valley Youth Theater

LOS GATOS SHOE DESIGNER FEATURED IN COFFEE-TABLE BOOK

Author: ‘Her story is truly remarkable’

Drew

Penner, Reporter

In the introduction to her book “Cult Heels: Exceptional Talent in Shoe Design,” fashion journalist Ursula Carranza lays out the case for her focus on footwear.

“In the past decade alone, shoes—be they pumps, sandals, or sneakers—have become the central player in a woman’s wardrobe,” she wrote. “Once considered a mere accessory, shoes are in-and-of art in their own right and have the power to seduce and transform.”

They are “cult objects,” argues Carranza, who has worked at People en Español, Siempre Mujer and Time magazines.

Los Gatos designer, Flor de Maria Rivera, finds herself among names like Stuart Weitzman, Jessica Butrich, Giuseppe Zanotti, Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo, with a 12-page spread in the 10-by-11 coffee-table volume.

“I am incredibly honored to share these pages with so many of the household names that nurtured my love for shoes,” said Rivera in a release. “Having my designs selected for Cult Heels, worn in global red carpets and chosen by the A-lists in the entertainment industry is a true testament to the power of dreams.”

Rivera’s company has been on the rise in recent months, with influencers such as Jenna Ortega, Saweetie and Cameron Diaz choosing to support her brand.

The Loft Publications book was printed in Spain and features text in three languages—English, German and Spanish.

The chapter on Christian Louboutin celebrates the designer’s recent Flamencaba line, his Icons campaign as well as his Nudes collection.

Carranza’s examination of Malaysian shoemaker Jimmy Choo is glitzy and aspirational.

The pages on Flor de Maria zeros-in on 20 styles, including the Carrie sandal, which made its way to a red carpet before the business had officially launched, and Rivera’s Flor design, which was inspired by Peru.

Carranza said Rivera just had to be included in the book, in part to highlight her success as an entrepreneur.

“Her story is truly remarkable,” she

said in the release. “Flor de Maria’s shoes are superbly elegant, sexy and feminine. To me they are the finest expression of modern elegance: glamorous and sexy but timeless at the same time.”

*We were recently gifted a copy of the book by Flor de Maria Rivera. Head to our “Los Gatan” YouTube channel to watch the unboxing video.

‘MODERN ELEGANCE’ Los Gatos shoe designer Flor de Maria Rivera’s work is featured in a new book, “Cult Heels: Exceptional Talent in Shoe Design.”

Drew Penner/Los Gatan

LOCAL SCENE

MUSIC IN THE PARK LINEUP ANNOUNCED

Music in the Park returns for the 2023 season.

Since 1988, Music in the Park has been a free public summer concert series held on Sunday afternoons, from 5-7pm on the Los Gatos Civic Center Lawn, 110 E. Main St.

This year’s lineup is as follows:

• July 23: Traveling Wilburys Review

• July 30: Suburban Bliss

• Aug. 6: Aardvark

• Aug. 13: Ruth Gerson

• Aug. 20: Tortilla Soup

• Aug. 27: Andre Thierry

For information, visit LosGatosCA. gov/MIP.

COUNTY HELPS FUND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES FOR PEOPLE WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES

The County of Santa Clara has entered into a two-year partnership with the College of Adaptive Arts (CAA) at West Valley College to provide adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) access to the CAA’s new workforce and apprenticeship program.

CORRECTION

Incorrect photos were published alongside the article, “LGLL’s Intermediate breakthrough,” in last week’s edition of Los Gatan. The correct photos are being published here.

The County’s $250,000 budget allocation, proposed by County Supervisor Joe Simitian, will be disbursed over two years to fund staffing, dedicated computers for the program, and transportation for program participants, where necessary.

“Folks in the I/DD community are well-suited for a variety of career paths. They can and want to do more,” Simitian said. “This new workforce and apprenticeship program at CAA will provide the training and experience these adults need to reach their full potential and secure meaningful and fulfilling work.”

The U.S. Department of Labor accredited apprenticeship program at CAA has two tracks: training for receptionist positions and for teacher’s aide positions. Unlike other workforce development programs for individuals with developmental disabilities that focus on the retail or service industries, the CAA program is intended to provide training and experience for “non-routine” jobs.

Candidates for this apprenticeship program are drawn from CAA’s own students, the West Valley College Disability Student Services Program, and other populations that historically have had challenges obtaining work.

“Fostering a love of life-long learning for our students is our primary focus at the school,” said DeAnna Pursai, CAA co-founder and executive director. “With this additional support, we can now begin

to prepare our students to seek out jobs, while exposing others to possible careers working with the I/DD community.”

CAA offers one-hour classes, taught in-person and virtually.

The CAA, founded in 2009 by Pursai and Dr. Pamela Lindsay, started with just 12 students. Pursai expects more than 200 students in the Summer/Fall semester, which began July 10.

“The work being done at CAA is unique, and really empowering for people in the I/DD community,” Simitian said. “The workforce apprenticeship program builds on the innovative practices in use at CAA, and is yet another resource to help folks in the I/DD world achieve a high quality of life for themselves.”

For consideration for the CAA workforce apprenticeship program, interested parties may send an email to workforce development coordinators Dr. Pamela Lindsay (pamela@collegeofadaptivearts.org) and Professor Angel Coronado (angelc@collegeofadaptivearts.org). For information about enrollment, visit the CAA website at collegeofadaptivearts.org/admissions.

COURT CELEBRATES DEBUT OF ARTWORK BY LOCAL STUDENTS

The Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara recently celebrated the artwork created by Santa Clara County

students from kindergarten to fifth grade. Students submitted these pieces for the Court's Spring Art Contest, and their work is now on display in the Hall of Justice Juror Assembly Room.

The June 30 event brought together Santa Clara County students, parents, educators, community members and judicial officers to commemorate the achievements of 520 budding artists.

“We express our heartfelt gratitude to the Court for their support and collaboration throughout this initiative. Special thanks go to the teachers, parents and guardians who nurture the artistic abilities of the students and encouraged their participation,” Hon. Elizabeth C. Peterson said. “We also extend our appreciation to our community partners for their invaluable coordination efforts and communication channels that made this endeavor representative of the County of Santa Clara.”

“There was a tremendous response to our call for artwork. Entire classes prepared pieces, and I was honored to meet many parents who brought their young artist’s work directly to my courtroom,” Hon. Evette D. Pennypacker said. “It is wonderful to bring the community to this space that so many seek to avoid when they receive their juror summons. We hope this installation of children’s artwork reminds us all of our connection to and belonging in our County and the courthouse.”

The Court encourages people who have reason to visit the Hall of Justice, 190 W. Hedding St. in San Jose, to stop by the Juror Assembly Room and view the children’s artwork.

➝ Local Scene, 17

SPEEDY Grant Browder rounds the bases during the Los Gatos Intermediate All Star team’s 16-3 win over Capitola/Soquel in the Section 5 Tournament championship game on July 3 at Quimby Middle School in San Jose.

Jim Mort Jim Mort

CHAMPIONS The Los Gatos Little League Intermediate All Star team celebrates after a 16-3 win over Capitola/Soquel in the Section 5 Tournament championship game on July 3 at Quimby Middle School in San Jose.

TROY GOES NO. 12 IN MLB DRAFT

Former LGHS standout is a big hit for Arizona

Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor

Tommy Troy has been on the Arizona Diamondbacks’ radar since his playing days at Los Gatos High, where he graduated from in 2020.

So it was no surprise then when the D-backs selected Troy 12th overall in the MLB Draft on July 9. Troy, who recently completed his junior year at Stanford, is the first Cardinal player to

be drafted in the first round since Nico Hoerner was selected 24th overall by the Chicago Cubs in 2018.

The 5-foot-10, 197-pound infielder had a stellar career at Stanford, including a 2023 season in which he hit a team-best .394 with 17 home runs, 58 RBIs and 76 runs scored. Troy earned ABCA and Perfect Game All-America honors, producing at least one hit in 47 of his 58 games played this season.

Stanford advanced to the College World Series for the third straight season and Troy was one of the catalysts,

affecting the game with his bat, glove and speed on the basepaths. Arizona Scouting Director Ian Rebhan said out of the many qualities Troy possesses, it’s the right-hander’s potent bat that stands out.

“We’re excited about the bat,” Rebhan said in a Zoom interview provided by the Arizona media relations department. “Obviously, being a three-year performer at Stanford, he’s had a lot of success in Cape wood bat leagues. We think he profiles really well as a hit and power defending up

the middle player. He’s super athletic, we think he’s a plus runner, and there’s just a lot of conviction from both our scouting group and analyst group on that bat. So really excited to get him at the first pick.”

When asked to elaborate on what makes Troy’s bat stand out, Rebhan gave a detailed breakdown.

“Bat track record and history is probably the first thing,” he said. “Our area scout in Northern California, he scouted [Troy] in high school and got to scout him at Stanford as well. I think our whole group remembers watching him at Area Codes and he was a hitter there, and I think we always say hitters hit.

“It started there and then watching him evolve as a hitter, a guy who always hit at Cape Cod, a guy who always hit at Stanford and really saw his power grow this year. I think all those things, the history, the way he controls the zone, the way the ball comes off his bat, there’s a lot of pluses there to love about that bat.”

Troy has a compact, fast swing, and “top of the skills contact skills,” Rebhan said. Although Troy spent a lot of time at third base this season, he’s played shortstop throughout his career and that’s where Arizona sees him playing.

Troy met members of the D-backs organization at some point before the Draft and left an indelible impression.

“We always say we’re trying to draft really good players, but we’re trying to draft really good people as well,” Rebhan said. “And players that not only produce on the field, but be really good teammates and be leaders.

“He checked a lot of those boxes. I think you come out of those meetings and it’s a gut feel of how you feel about the person that you’ve got the chance to select. I think you start talking about those character traits that you like from the work ethic and the leadership ability, the character really shone through with him, and right after that he was one of our favorites.”

Troy led the Wildcats to the 2018 Central Coast Section Open Division championship game, where they lost to a powerhouse Valley Christian team, 4-3. He was the Los Gatos High Male Athlete of the Year for his 2019-2020 senior season.

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FOSSIL FARM TO PLAY AT LGS REC’S SUMMER PICNIC FOR SENIORS

Drew

Penner, Reporter

When four-piece rock band Fossil Farm steps up, next week, to play at the Civic Center Lawn for Los Gatos-Saratoga Community Education and Recreation (LGS Rec)’s Annual Senior Summer Picnic, it will mark their triumphant return to Cat Town.

The group, which plays music from the past six decades, performs around the region in places such as Cupertino, Boulder Creek and San Jose, and previously rocked out at a fundraiser for New Museum Los Gatos in April 2018.

But the focus of the Senior Summer Picnic, scheduled for Wednesday, July 26 from 11:30am-1:30pm, won’t be on

the performers, but on the attendees.

“It’s for our 55-plus members, and we usually have about 200 people in attendance,” said Lisanne Kennedy, LGS Rec’s recreation coordinator. “We have been doing it for years and years.”

Last year was Kennedy’s first time organizing the event, and she says it was a blast seeing familiar faces having such a great time.

“As the coordinator it was so much fun,” she said. “It was just great seeing them all there.”

The grass outside Town Hall will be filled with chairs and tables—and umbrellas—and food will be prepared by Los Gatos Meats.

MANY SERVICES UNDER ONE ROOF

Hospital, from page 1

PAMF, a division of Sutter Health, says the specialty-care facility, officially named the “Sutter Health Ambulatory Care and Surgery Center at Samaritan Court,” will allow it to provide better care to patients, and in a more efficient manner.

Here’s why.

The health care corporation is centralizing more than 30 physicians into one building while inviting two new doctors into the fold. And it’s not planning to close any other locations as a result.

Having so many different disciplines under the same roof means you no longer have to send patients across town for additional treatment, at least in many situations.

“I’m a podiatrist,” said the facility’s medical director, Dr. Alan Sue, thinking ahead to a case when a patient might need to be seen by an orthopedic surgeon. “Sometimes what I’ll do is say, ‘They have a hand doctor right here.’”

While this may sound like a minor factor, the benefits of having everything from gynecology to gastroenterology to pediatrics to pulmonary medicine at the same spot are ex-

pected to compound over time for the medical group.

And when patients from Morgan Hill and Gilroy don’t have to worry about studying rush hour patterns for multiple different facilities, it makes life easier for them, too, says Sue.

“It allows patients to feel more calm about the treatment,” he said.

For Sue, who’s been working at the 9,730-square-foot PAMF clinic at 15720 Winchester Blvd., it means his lab tests can now be processed in-house, and he doesn’t have to drive back after finishing a surgery at a different hospital.

“I don’t have to worry about the traffic on the 85,” he said. “I can literally just walk upstairs.”

The new hospital has three operating rooms and three procedure suites for gastrointestinal doctors. It’s also equipped to do total joint replacements and has an area dedicated to caring for people with casts.

The room setups were designed in consultation with doctors.

There will be two OBGYNs with offices at the hospital, meaning they can look after pregnant patients at the facility ahead of time, and when the

This year’s menu will feature hamburger, turkey or portobello mushroom burgers.

Kennedy says the portobello option was a huge hit last time.

“A lot of people were eager to try it,” she said.

The event made such an impact that some LGS Rec members put it down as a highlight of the year, in a recent survey.

Kennedy says people enjoyed the event so much because it was an opportunity to build relationships with others.

“People in the community are looking to get connected again,” she said, noting some may have lost loved ones during the pandemic or may just be looking to make some new friends.

“That’s a big part of our mission, is to help eliminate isolation—especially after the pandemic.”

The police department has provided LGS Rec with parking permits and the Lions Club of Los

Gatos has agreed to volunteer.

“There’s a lot of different members of the community involved to make this a success,” Kennedy said, noting people have to be LGS Rec members and must register ahead of time in order to attend.

Even though the event only lasts for a few hours, it has a tendency to create ripple effects that continue much longer.

On Tuesday morning, for example, one woman couldn’t help but tell Kennedy how much the event meant to her.

“I can’t believe you guys do stuff like this for us,” the woman shared. The event is also supported with contributions from Alameda Family Funeral & Cremation, dentist James Lin, ClearCaptions CC, the Town of Los Gatos, El Camino Health and Friends of Los Gatos Older Adults. For information, visit www.lgsrecreation.org or call 408.354.1514.

baby arrives, pop next door to Good Samaritan Hospital for the delivery.

The facility is not for the general public, as there’s no emergency room and you’d need one of the doctors listed as part of your medical insurance “panel” to end up here, a Sutter Health spokesperson explained.

It has a buoyant atmosphere, thanks to narrow hall lights provid-

ing a sense of flow, ample windows to allow sunshine in, and a bright, but soft, color palette spread across the walls.

“When we developed the building, we wanted to make sure we had a nice calming, almost Zen, feel,” Sue said.

“That’s why we picked warm tones. You can see lighter colors of either greens or some blues there.”

READY TO OPEN Dr. Alan Sue, Sutter Ambulatory Care and Surgery Center’s medical director, says the new hospital is designed to make the treatment process better for patients.

Drew Penner/Los Gatan

CALENDAR

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

MUSIC IN THE PARK

Since 1988, Music in the Park has been a free public summer concert series held on Sunday afternoons, from 5-7pm on the Los Gatos Civic Center Lawn, 110 E Main St. This year’s lineup is as follows: July 23: Traveling Wilburys Review. July 30: Suburban Bliss. Aug. 6: Aardvark. Aug. 13: Ruth Gerson. Aug. 20: Tortilla Soup. Aug. 27: Andre Thierry. ➝ LosGatosCA.gov/MIP.

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

The Campbell Summer Concert series runs weekly on Thursday nights, with a bonus concert squeezed in on July 31. ➝ downtowncampbell.com/ event/2023/summer-concerts.

WEST VALLEY YOUTH THEATER

The summer season continues for West Valley Youth Theater, formerly known as Los Gatos Youth Theater. “Rent,” for audiences ages 13 and up, runs July 20-22 at 7pm, July 22 at 2pm and July 23 at 1pm and 6pm. Tickets are $18 for children over 3, students, seniors and military; and adults are $20. All performances at Leigh High School Performing Arts Center. ➝ wvyt.org/tickets.

DRUMMING AND STORYTELLING SHOWCASE

To celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day and to promote inclusion, equity, transformative action and unity throughout Los Gatos, San Jose and the Bay Area, AWỌ is bring back the HUEmanity Salons Series program titled “Drums of the World” on Aug. 27. Scheduled workshops include making musical percussion instruments, drum playing and use of traditional African fabrics for collage creations. “Drums in the World” will be Aug. 27 at Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center in Los Gatos from 1-4pm. Those interested in

attending can register for free at tinyurl.com/2x2ryus5. For information, email askawo@awocenter.org or call 408.601.0364.

‘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.

SARATOGA CLASSIC & COOL CAR SHOW

More than 250 classic cars will gather at Saratoga Village along Big Basin Way for the 12th Annual Saratoga Classic & Cool Car Show on July 23 from 10am to 4pm. The Saratoga Chamber of Commerce and the Cool Car Club of Saratoga, Los Gatos and Campbell host this free public event. Food and drinks will be available for purchase from local restaurants and a few food vendors. The week before the car show is Saratoga's Car Show Week consisting of the following events: July 18: Fuel Up Rally at 5pm at Big Basin Burger Bar; July 20: Revvin Up Rally at 5pm at Jake’s of Saratoga; July 22: Tri-City Cruise starts at the Saratoga Village 76 gas station and travels to Los Gatos and Campbell, arriving at 10:30am and leaving at 11:30am.

➝ saratogacarshow.com.

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.

LIVES

April 18, 1949 - March 31, 2023

Susan Patricia Thompson, born to Charles William Thompson Jr. and Mary Ellen Halliday on April 18, 1949 in Detroit, MI, passed away on March 31, 2023 at the age of 73. She was the beloved mother of four living children: Robin Thompson Flury, Andrew William Flury, Michelle Suzanne Flury, and Alexander William Flury. She was also the grandmother of ten grandchildren.

After moving to California in her early teens, Susie became a member of the California Scholarship Federation at Fremont High School and earned an academic college scholarship from Hewlett-Packard. Susie then attained an Associate of Arts degree from De Anza College as part of the school's very first graduating class in 1969. She went on to achieve a Bachelor of Arts in English from California State University Hayward. Susie had a keen interest in natural healing and herbal remedies and eventually went back to school after her children were grown to obtain her Masters of Science in Holistic Nutrition. Susie held many jobs throughout her life, from working at a computer time-share in the early days of Silicon Valley to running an architectural firm, tutoring math, and serving as head of editorial for a small publishing company. However, Susie's favorite job was that of Mom, raising her four children whom she also homeschooled for several years.

Susie didn't believe in retirement and kept busy right until the end of her life, editing novels, organizing parties and reunions for her high school graduating class, cooking healthy organic recipes, baking the most delicious pies in the world, and spending time with her extended family, including her three younger brothers and their many children and grandchildren. She enjoyed working out in her home gym, gardening, sewing, rock-and-roll, classic literature, and anything that made her laugh—which she did often. Her commitment to family and her generous spirit will live on in all those who knew her.

Susan Patricia Thompson

CUTTINGS BECOME COPIES OF ORIGINALS

Tony Tomeo, Contributor

Seed is the most familiar source of much of the vegetation that inhabits home gardens. It is the origin of almost all vegetables and most annual flowers. Some seed grows directly into its gardens. Some grows in nurseries to become saleable young plants. Seed is not the only method of propagation though. Cuttings, division and layering are as productive.

Cuttings, as well as divisions and layers, are genetically identical to their single parents. Unlike seed, which are products of two parents, they lack potential for genetic variation. Division is the separation of stems with roots from perennials or clumping woody plants. Layering is the rooting of stems by partially burying them while attached to their parents.

Cuttings grow simply as pieces of stem within moist rooting medium such as potting soil. They initially lack roots and perhaps foliage. They develop new roots and foliage as they grow. Their medium must remain moist throughout the process. For many plants, rooting hormone accelerates root initiation. Some species can grow roots as they soak in water.

Hardwood cuttings are mostly from deciduous species as they defoliate for winter. Those from last winter are developing now. Evergreen hardwood cuttings retain some foliage through their winter dormancy. Softwood cuttings can be either deciduous or evergreen. They involve fresh new growth, so can begin as soon as such growth is mature enough.

The lower cuts of cuttings should be just below a node. Upper cuts should be just above a node. Terminal cuttings are tips of stems without upper cuts. Each cutting must include at least two good nodes. Some species may need cuttings to be several inches long in pots. Most grow better from small cuttings that fit into flats. Some can go directly into a garden. Cuttings should lack leaves below the level of their rooting medium.

Softwood cuttings generally require humidity to help compensate for their lack of roots. Most also appreciate partial shade. Evergreen hardwood cuttings appreciate the same as weather gets warmer and drier. Warmth from a heating mat below pots or flats might

REAL ESTATE HOME OF THE WEEK

accelerate rooting. Many species are difficult or impossible to grow from cuttings, though.

Highlight: Martha Washington geranium

Mrs. Washington never grew Martha Washington geranium, Pelargonium X domesticum. It was hybridized in Europe from south African species after she passed away. Although classified as a hybrid species, it is actually a group of distinct hybrids. Most are related to the same pair of primary ancestors. A few other species mingled in the process, though.

The largest cultivars do not get much taller than three feet. Some develop rather irregular form. A few grow upward only to fall over. Minor tip pruning can improve awkward form. Stems are woodier than those of common zonal geranium. Consequently, cuttings do not develop roots as efficiently. Old specimens are less likely to recover from major pruning.

Martha Washington geranium may not bloom quite as profusely as zonal geraniums. The flowers are more spectacular though. Floral color can include purple, lavender, pink, red, burgundy or white. Billowy flowers are bordered or blotched with alternate colors. A few flowers bloom together on rounded umbels. Evergreen foliage is light green and ruffly.

WATERFRONT VIEWS

This waterfront property overlooks Lexington Reservoir.

Located at 19890 Old Santa Cruz Highway in Los Gatos, the 4,634-square-foot home includes four bedrooms and four bathrooms.

The kitchen is equipped with a Viking stove and Sub Zero refrigerator, many cabinets and a large island. The dining room features room for a table that can seat 14.

The primary suite has an office, ja-

cuzzi tub and separate shower, walk-in closet and a balcony that overlooks the reservoir.

The home’s theater is outfitted with a custom Marvel paint job, large screen, projector and surround speakers.

The home, built in 1998, is listed at $3,989,000 by Intero Real Estate Services. For information, visit tinyurl.com/4y6fzz69.

OLD SANTA CRUZ HIGHWAY This Los Gatos home is located near the Lexington Reservoir.

INSIDE The family room has high ceilings, a stove and a slider to the rear deck.

Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.

COPIES Elderberries grow efficiently from hardwood cuttings.

APPLY FOR A COUNTY BOARD

Local Scene, from page 10

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION OPTIONS TO EXPAND FOR COUNTY BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

Since the return of in-person Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors meetings at the start of 2023, the board has been wrestling with the challenge of providing remote public participation for all County commissions that are subject to the Brown Act (the State’s open meeting law).

Public participation for other board and commission meetings has been mostly limited to in-person only.

Potentially as soon as this August, members of the public will be able to attend in-person or watch online via a web portal. They will also be able to make public comment in person, online or by phone.

Until recently, technology gaps and facility limitations have meant that only meetings of the Board of Supervisors and its policy committees have allowed for remote public participation.

The move to provide remote participation was welcomed by County Supervisor Joe Simitian, who was among those Board members pushing for the accommodation.

“Frankly, it’s been frustrating,” Simitian said. “In the midst of the pandemic we used new technologies because we had to. We didn’t have a choice, really. But now we know, we have the tools if only we’ll use them—use them to engage more people more conveniently. The ‘new normal’ looks a bit different, and candidly, our County wasn’t as quick to pivot as we should have been. There was some bureaucratic back and forth, but I think at this point it’s all been sorted out and adequately funded. Public participation isn’t something it’s just nice to have, it’s essential to democratic governance.”

To apply to join a County board or commission, visit boardclerk.sccgov. org/boards-and-commissions/opportunities.

Food provided by TAQUERIA AGAVE

Wed July 19 • $15/$20

THE HAYWOODS + LLOYD TRIPP

FAMILY BAND

Western Wednesday

Thu Jul 20 • $25/$30

DEZARIE

St. Croix Roots Reggae

Fri July 21 • $12/$15

LATIN DJ SHOWCASE

+ DJ MUNDO + DJ WILLIE

+ DJ IRRE + DJ FAMILY TUB

Salsa, Cumbia, Reggaeton

Sat Jul 22 • $20/$25

WESTERN STANDARD

TIME SKA ORCHESTRA

W/DAN POTTHAST + DJ REGGAEDELIC

All-Star Ska Experience

Sun Jul 23 • 3PM • $15/$20

JORDAN T + FRIENDS!

Sunday Funday Reggae Party

Fri Jul 28 • $20/$25

MARIO Y SU TIMBEKO

Cuban Salsa/R&B/Jazz/Funk

Sat Jul 29 • $20/$25

MARTY O’REILLY + WOLF JETT

Americana/Blues/Soul

Sun Jul 30 • $22/$25

(((folkYEAH!))) presents IMARHAN + RAHILL

Algerian Desert Rock Quintet

Aug 2 EDDIE 9V + ALTERNATIVE ZEN BLUES TRIAL

Aug 3 LADY WRAY + BRAINSTORY

Aug 4 LITTLE HURRICANE + DIGGIN’ TRAILS

Aug 5 MARLON ASHER

Aug 8 DALLAS BURROW + MIKE HELLMAN + KENTUCKY MULE

MOESALLEY.COM

1535 Commercial Way Santa Cruz, CA 95065

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.