Los Gatan July 26 2023

ACTORS PROTEST AT NETFLIX’S HEADQUARTERS

Union asks for ‘fair pay’ in era of streaming services

Drew Penner, Reporter

Cries of “Union power!” rang out across Winchester Boulevard, July 20, in the 91-degree Fahrenheit heat, as the actors' strike arrived in Los Gatos, with Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) members picketing in front of Netflix’s corporate headquarters.

The relevance of Silicon Valley as an artificial intelligence incubator that’s bringing change to entertainment pay models was not lost on the demonstrators.

“This is our livelihood,” said Rick Haffner, a 63-year-old from Cupertino who’s been in SAG-AFTRA for some two decades, urging tech executives to work with actors on a new— fairer—funding model. “Silicon Valley, take the lead!”

On May 2, the Writers Guild of America went on strike, after talks with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers broke down.

WGA waged a highly coordinated campaign that managed to shut down the majority of shoots in Los Angeles. Other, more limited, actions took place further afield.

➝ Protest, 10

ASSEMBLYMEMBER ANNOUNCES $1M FOR LGS REC PROGRAMS

Funds to go toward 55-plus services

Drew Penner, Reporter

Many of the 30 or so people who filed into the linoleum-floored community center, Tuesday, had no idea what was about to be announced, but with the balloons and the heightened sense of anticipation you could tell it would be massive.

As Gail Pellerin, Los Gatos’ new representative in the State Assembly, strode into the Los Gatos-Saratoga Community Education and Recreation (LGS Recreation) building, the crescendo began to build.

“This is my first opportunity to do something really fabulous for my district here,” Pellerin ➝ Assemblymember, 8

police reports p9 : ‘rent’ review p12 : upcoming events p14 : ny times crossword puzzle p17

SUPPORTING SENIORS Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (left) stopped by Los Gatos on Tuesday to deliver a $1 million check to LGS Recreation Executive Director Nancy Rollett.

Drew Penner/Los Gatan

THE BILL LISTER TEAM

THE BILL LISTER TEAM

Call Me To Discuss Your Next Move in 2023

Call Me To Discuss Your Next Move in 2023

BILL LISTER TEAM

BILL LISTER TEAM

15283 SOBEY ROAD SARATOGA

3

To Discuss Your Next Move in 2023

To Discuss Your Next Move in 2023

3

15283 SOBEY ROAD, SARATOGA

floor plan, large entertaining backyard, multiple sitting areas, hot tub, and wonderfully landscaped grounds.

REPRESENTED BUYERS

REPRESENTED BUYERS

15283 SOBEY ROAD, SARATOGA

15283 SOBEY ROAD, SARATOGA

countertops, gas range, stainless steel appliances, custom backsplash, breakfast bar, and breakfast nook with sliding door to exterior patio. Spacious primary suite with large window and slider to patio providing ample natural light. Primary suite bathroom with double sinks, large stall shower, and walk-in closet. 2 additional spacious bedrooms. Laundry room. Entertaining at its finest with an open floor plan, large entertaining backyard, multiple sitting areas, hot tub, and wonderfully landscaped grounds.

breakfast bar, and breakfast nook with sliding door to exterior patio. Spacious primary suite with large window and slider to patio providing ample natural light. Primary suite bathroom with double sinks, large stall shower, and walk-in closet. 2 additional spacious bedrooms. Laundry room. Entertaining at its finest with an open floor plan, large entertaining backyard, multiple sitting areas, hot tub, and wonderfully landscaped grounds.

3 Beds | 3 Full Baths | ± 2,826 sq. ft Living Space | ± 1.087 Acre Lot Offered at $3,950,000 & SOLD for $4,450,000

Single story private Saratoga home with situated on just over an acre. Formal entry with custom front door and stained-glass panels. Large living room with double sliding doors to exterior entertaining patio. Chef’s kitchen

Single story private Saratoga home with situated on just over an acre. Formal entry with custom front door and stained-glass panels. Large living room with double sliding doors to exterior entertaining patio. Chef’s kitchen with white shaker cabinetry, marble countertops, gas range, stainless steel appliances, custom backsplash, breakfast bar, and breakfast nook with sliding door to exterior patio.

REPRESENTED BUYERS

3 Beds | 3 Full Baths | ± 2,826 sq. ft Living Space | ± 1.087 Acre Lot Offered at $3,950,000 & SOLD for $4,450,000 Single story private Saratoga home with situated on just over an acre. Formal entry with custom front door and stained-glass panels. Large living room with double sliding doors to exterior entertaining patio. Chef’s kitchen with white shaker cabinetry, marble countertops, gas range, stainless steel appliances, custom backsplash, breakfast bar, and breakfast nook with sliding door to exterior patio. Spacious primary suite with large window and slider to patio providing ample natural light. Primary suite bathroom with double sinks, large stall shower, and walk-in closet. 2 additional spacious bedrooms. Laundry room. Entertaining at its finest with an open floor plan, large entertaining backyard, multiple sitting areas, hot tub, and wonderfully landscaped grounds.

white shaker cabinetry, marble countertops, gas range, stainless steel appliances, custom backsplash, breakfast bar, and breakfast nook with sliding door to exterior patio. Spacious primary suite with large window and slider to patio providing ample natural light. Primary suite bathroom with double sinks, large stall shower, and walk-in closet. 2 additional spacious bedrooms. Laundry room. Entertaining at its finest with an open floor plan, large entertaining backyard, multiple sitting areas, hot tub, and wonderfully landscaped grounds.

Entertaining at its finest with an open floor plan, large entertaining backyard, multiple sitting areas, hot tub, and wonderfully landscaped grounds.

REPRESENTED BUYERS

Single story private Saratoga home with situated on just over an acre. Formal entry with custom front door and stained-glass panels. Large living room with double sliding doors to exterior entertaining patio. Chef’s kitchen with white shaker cabinetry, marble countertops, gas range, stainless steel appliances, custom backsplash, breakfast bar, and breakfast nook with sliding door to exterior patio. Spacious primary suite with large window and slider to patio providing ample natural light. Primary suite bathroom with double sinks, large stall shower, and walk-in closet. 2 additional spacious bedrooms. Laundry room. Entertaining at its finest with an open floor plan, large entertaining backyard, multiple sitting areas, hot tub, and wonderfully landscaped grounds.

REPRESENTED BUYERS

Dan Pulcrano

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COUNTY BOOSTS SENIOR SERVICES FOR LOS GATOS

Funds to go toward case management, day service programs

Staff Report

The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors recently approved a County effort to support the Town of Los Gatos in its efforts to increase services for older adults.

The $125,000 grant from the County, proposed by Supervisor Joe Simitian, will be used for older adult senior case management and adult day service programs.

“Our County’s population is aging at a faster rate than the rest of the nation, and that’s certainly true in Los Gatos,” Simitian said. “We’ve got to start developing these programs and services now, if we’re going to meet the needs of this growing population.”

“Kudos to Los Gatos,” Simitian added. “The demographics of the Town are changing, and the Town is stepping up to address that change. I’m hoping a little help from the County can help the Town do more,

and sooner rather than later.”

Earlier this year, case management and adult day services were two areas of need identified in the recently released Senior Services Roadmap for Los Gatos. With seed funding now in place, the Town of Los Gatos will work in the coming months to either develop case management and adult day services, or identify local agencies and organizations who can provide these services and programs for the community.

“We are appreciative of both the resources and flexibility this grant provides,” Los Gatos Town Manager Laurel Prevetti said. “The needs of our community are unique, and it is important to identify and develop services that specifically address the needs of Los Gatos seniors.”

Clients in adult day programs have access to an individualized care plan, activities, dietary services, assistance with medication management, nutrition, personal care and supervision. The services provide socialization opportunities, cognitive stimulation, reduce falls and emergency room visits, and provide access to physical activity.

For caretakers, adult day services provide respite, peace of mind, the ability to stay in the workforce, and access to education and referral services. Case management provides services for older adults after a comprehensive assessment by a social worker.

“I hear from older adults often about how difficult it is to find services,” Simitian said. “This partnership between the County and the Town of Los Gatos means older adults will be getting connected to services they need in their own community.”

LIBRARIES HOSTING SERIES ON MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

First event is July 26 in Campbell

Staff Report

The Santa Clara County Library District (SCCLD) is partnering with the County of Santa Clara Health System, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Santa Clara County, and Bay Area Legal Aid (BayLegal) to educate local residents on mental health care through a series of events.

“For too long the stigma around this topic, high costs and red tape have limited people’s ability to receive the assistance they need for better mental health and wellness,” County Librarian Jennifer Weeks said. “The library is a trusted information source and meeting place for members of the public to learn about available mental health services.”

California Senate Bill 855 established the right to parity and requires insurers to cover medically necessary

treatment for all mental health and substance use disorders.

“Many patients, however, are not aware of their rights,” said Joe Simitian, Library JPA Board Member, chair of the County Health and Hospital committee, and County Supervisor for District 5. “It can be hard enough for folks to acknowledge they need help, or that someone they care about is in crisis. By ensuring mental health parity, we can make it easier and more affordable for our residents and their loved ones to get the mental health and substance use care they need.”

The County Health System, NAMI Santa Clara and Bay Legal have developed a presentation to educate residents about their right to access medically necessary mental health care. The 30-minute presentation explains how common mental health conditions are and how to recognize signs and symptoms. Information is also given on rights to mental health care,

steps and resources to access care, and what to do if you encounter problems. Handouts with tips and resources will be provided.

“Helping people learn about their right to access behavioral health care is an important part of our work to promote better health for all in Santa Clara County,” said Edwin Poon, Deputy Director of Managed Care, Behavioral Health Services Department for the County of Santa Clara Health System. The presentation dates are as follows:

• Campbell Library: July 26, 6-7pm (Orchard City Banquet Hall 2 South)

• Morgan Hill Library: Aug. 7, 6-7pm

• Cupertino Library: Aug. 9, 7-8pm

• Saratoga Library: Aug. 15, 7-8pm

• Milpitas Library: Aug. 21, 6-7pm

• Gilroy Library: Aug. 30, 6-7pm

• Los Altos Library: Sept. 20, 11am12pm

For information, visit tinyurl.com/ bdfuccer.

The demographics of the Town are changing, and the Town is stepping up to address that change.

Joe Simitian

LOCAL SCENE

DENISE ROCCHI NAMED NEW SARATOGA POSTMASTER

On July 20, Denise Rocchi followed a tradition dating back to 1855 when Levi Millard was the first Postmaster of what was originally called the McCarthysville Post Office before becoming Saratoga Post Office in 1865.

Rocchi raised her right hand to take the official Oath of Office as the Postmaster of the Saratoga Post Office. Manager of Post Office Operations Rick Keppler administered the oath.

Rocchi, a 17-year postal service employee, started her career in 2006 as an Associate Supervisor of Customer Service in Redwood City. Rocchi went on to advance as Supervisor of Customer Service at stations in Palo Alto and San Jose. Rocchi served as the Manager of Customer Service at the San Jose Blossom Station as her most recent role before her promotion to Postmaster of Saratoga.

Rocchi is no stranger to the Postal Service, coming from a long line of postal lineage. Her grandparents Jean and Bill Croteau served as clerk and carrier in San Jose, her mother Jeanne Rocchi served as a clerk and both her aunts also joined the service as Supervisor and Human Resources Principal.

“I am honored and privileged to be selected to serve the community of Saratoga as its Postmaster,” Rocchi said. “I am passionate about providing excellent service to every customer and providing a great place for our employees to work.”

Rocchi resides in San Jose and in her spare time enjoys rooting for her favorite baseball team the San Francisco Giants, traveling, hiking, varieties of music, movies, musical theater, concerts, the beach and parks.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and is a member of the supervisory committee for the Pacific Postal Credit Union. Rocchi enjoys giving back to the community and supports local charities including San Francisco Junior Giants, UCSF and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospitals.

As the Postmaster of Saratoga, Rocchi supervises 41 employees and oversees the retail services and daily distribution of 48,000 pieces of mail and packages to 11,822 delivery

stops, 1,814 P.O. Boxes, 22 city delivery routes, two rural routes to a community of more than 30,163 residents.

DISCUSSION TO COVER DOWNTOWN PARKING

Downtown businesses and other interested parties are invited to a discussion on recommendations being proposed to the Town Council regarding downtown paid parking and employee parking permit programs.

Two sessions will be held at the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce, 10 Station Way, on Aug. 10 at 9am and 12:30pm.

To RSVP, email mrenn@losgatosca.gov.

The council is scheduled to consider this item on Aug. 15 at 7pm.

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH NAVIGATORS NOW AT LOS GATOS LIBRARY

A Santa Clara County Behavioral Health Navigator will now be at the Los Gatos Library every Tuesday from 1-4pm to help residents connect to and access the County’s mental health system, including public and community-based resources.

“The Mental Health Navigator Program is a one-stop shop, designed to help those who encounter challeng-

es or barriers when seeking mental health care for themselves or their loved ones,” said County Supervisor Joe Simitian, who serves as chair of the County’s Health and Hospital Committee and proposed the program. “By bringing our navigators to community locations residents already know and trust, like the library, we’re hoping to increase access to this service, and help even more folks find the right path to treatment.”

“The Los Gatos Library welcomes County Behavioral Health Navigators to assist the community find needed resources,” Library Director Ryan Baker said. “The library is a central gathering place for people of all walks of life and is a natural fit for this exciting, new partnership.”

The Behavioral Health Navigator Program launched in July 2022 to connect individuals and families to County and County-contracted services, and when appropriate, identifies private resources and helps guide the public through the mental health system.

Following established privacy protocols, trained navigators offer:

• Personalized assistance to get help for behavioral health needs

• Information and resources for mental health, substance use, suicide prevention, support groups and more

• Peer guidance about options for wellness services and support

• Connection to County and community-based resources

• Support from peers with an understanding of local services

“Navigators listen to concerns, provide information and connect people with resources for themselves and their families. They work with County programs and nonprofit partners to find the best fit,” Simitian said. “From the beginning, my hope has been that by helping folks make their way through and around barriers, we can help them get the treatment they need and get their lives back on track.”

Residents may drop in and meet in person with a behavioral health navigator at the Los Gatos Library, 100 Villa Ave., on Tuesdays from 1-4pm. No appointment necessary. Residents may also contact the Behavioral

Health Navigator Program by calling 800.704.0900, option 4, or emailing BHNavigator@hhs.sccgov.org.

SERIES DISCUSSES DEMENTIA

Belmont Village Senior Living will host an educational series on navigating dementia as a caregiver, care partner or friend.

The series will educate on topics such as the basics of dementia, changing family dynamics, communication tips, and how to navigate challenging behaviors associated with dementia. New approaches and techniques will be taught to effectively care for a loved one.

The first installment of the series will be a discussion on what dementia is and what you need to know about the disease. A Q&A will follow the presentation.

Joyce Mahoney, CTRS, APRS, Regional Vice President of Memory Care and Programming at Belmont Village Senior Living, will lead the series.

The event will be held virtually on Aug. 16 at noon. To RSVP, visit belmontvillage.com/webinar. For information or to send questions to the speaker, email comm@belmontvillage.com.

ORCHARD CITY COMMUNITY CHORUS SEEKS NEW MEMBERS

The Orchard City Community Chorus (OCCC) is seeking new members. The group is searching for singers for all sections: soprano, alto, tenor and bass.

OCCC is a non-audition, all-age community chorus which is preparing for its annual Winter Concert in December.

Rehearsals are on Monday nights in the Choir Room at Campbell United Methodist Church, 1675 Winchester Blvd., starting at 7pm and ending at 9pm.

The first rehearsal of the new season will be held Aug. 21.

For information, email Bobbie Wright at bwright413@gmail.com or call 408.374.2622.

Courtesy of U.S. Postal Service

GUEST VIEW SOME IDEAS FOR ATTRACTING NEW MEMBERS TO ROTARY

Jeffrey P. Blum , Contributor

Somehow through my years as a volunteer in many different endeavors I’ve gotten the notion that I know how to generate interest about the organizations I’ve been involved in. In many cases I did this by writing articles about the organization, such as the YMCA, the Palo Alto Human Relations Commission, the Palo Alto Mediation Program and the Los Gatos Community Health and Senior Services Commission. The fact that nobody wrote back ridiculing me for what I wrote perhaps deluded me into believing I know how to market and promote stuff.

With this history as the backdrop, when I joined the Rotary Club of Los Gatos, I agreed to join the marketing and membership committees.

A few years into my membership in Rotary I was asked to chair the membership committee. I had little idea of what I would be getting into workwise, nor did I know that Lisa Norcia Cheskin, the outgoing chair of the membership committee, would, during her tenure, set a club record for new member enrollment. Always ready to face a challenge, I took the reigns as chair of the membership committee beginning July 1.

Having given my job duties serious consideration before commencing my term, I’m ready to offer my suggestions for a successful new membership recruitment drive this year. I’ve never been shy about thinking off the top of my head and sharing what I’m thinking. As a result, I figure that I’ve given my fellow Rotarians a few good reasons to laugh at me during my time as a Rotarian. Why not add a few more opportunities for them to ridicule me while I serve as chairperson of the membership committee?

Thus, with due consideration of the consequences, here are some of my new member recruitment ideas:

1. “Bring Your Pet to Rotary Day.” I envision a room full of well-dressed Rotarians accompanied by their furry

friends, wagging tails, and all (cats being most prominent; after all, we live in a town otherwise known as “The Cats.”). It would be a heartwarming scene sure to boost attendance. Of course, I would let the local media know about this unique event. Perhaps Petco would sponsor our meeting? I wonder if this idea would be problematic, however. Would the dogs bark like crazy? Would the cats add their meows to the chorus? Better yet, how about organizing a Rotary Pet Parade through town? The pets could be dressed up in funny costumes! That might attract a crowd of potential new members.

2. A Rotary Karaoke meeting. This could attract a younger hipper group of prospective members to our meeting. After hearing a few off-key renditions of “YMCA” and “I Will Survive,” we might lose, rather than gain, a few members. So, bad idea.

3. The Rotary Club of Los Gatos superhero club. We could have “The Incredibly Punctual Man,” who is always five minutes early to meetings or “Captain Spreadsheet,” who is a master at organizing and analyzing data.

4. Advertising placard meeting day. Rotarians don large sandwich placards on their bodies advertising Rotary and walk the streets of Los Gatos.

5. A “Rotary Meme Contest” involving members of the public creating and submitting humorous memes relating to the Rotary Club of Los Gatos.

6. “Rotary Comedy Night” during which we partner with a local comedy club to host a night of laughter.

Not convinced to join? How about a Rotary scavenger hunt in town or a funny hat parade in town?

As you can tell, I am chock full of ideas and clearly up to the job of being the new chair of the Rotary Club of Los Gatos membership committee. Having volunteered for the job without full awareness of what I was getting myself into, I nevertheless vow to embrace the absurdity, cherish the laughter, and believe in the transformative power of community. I am hopeful that it will be the most rewarding experience I never saw coming.

So, did I hear you say you want to join our Rotary club?

Jeffrey P. Blum is a family law mediator who lives in Los Gatos. He can be reached at blumesq@aol.com.

VETERANS FOUNDATION HOSTS ‘MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE’ PREMIERE IN LOS GATOS

‘Silly fun’ movie ideal for serious fundraiser

Drew Penner, Reporter

On the evening of July 19, local resident Grant Atwell was out taking photos at Jazz on the Plazz, and wasn’t at the “Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning Part 1” premiere at the Los Gatos Theatre, in which his daughter stars alongside Tom Cruise.

That’s because he’d just gotten back from the opening of the quintessential popcorn flick in Italy. The release schedule had been moved up to beat the launch of the actors' strike.

But he was mentioned during introductory remarks given by retired Maj. Gen. Kent Hillhouse of the Veterans Memorial & Support Foundation, the group using the film as a fundraiser.

The movie itself felt quite relevant to the Silicon Valley audience, given the themes relating to Big Data and artificial general intelligence.

(“The world is changing; truth is vanishing; war is coming,” one character says.)

There was plenty of military gear

depicted on the screen—a good fit for an event based around generating dollars to pay off a multi-million debt incurred for a memorial that honors Los Gatos’ 9/11 heroes, Mark Bingham and Todd Beamer, among others.

And Atwell’s daughter Hayley delivered an impressive showing as “Grace,” one of several strong female characters who bring elements of realism to a fantastical plot.

This week, Vogue praised the rising actress—who has previously been spotted at Los Gatos haunts while visiting from England—for the “plunging black Givenchy gown that channeled Old Hollywood glitz,” which she wore in Rome.

Pat Chappell, a Los Gatos resident, called the blockbuster “just silly fun.”

Another Los Gatan, Mary Ellen Graham, said it was nice to return to a theater.

Rob Stephenson, a Veterans Foundation board member, deemed the night a success.

“It was a good fundraiser for the foundation,” he said, noting they sold about 130 tickets. “It was great to see so many people come out and support.”

LOCALS THANKFUL FOR FUNDING

Assemblymember, from page 1

began. “We all know it’s been a really tough budget year.”

With that, she handed an oversized check for $1 million to Nancy Rollett, LGS Recreation’s executive director.

Pellerin said she’s been impressed with the 55-plus programming being offered in Los Gatos, and so she decided to fight to win dollars for the organization—despite the financial challenges the Gavin Newsom Administration is navigating.

The money will be dished out in $250,000 chunks over four consecutive years.

Among other things, Rollett said, the dollars will help older adults facing mental health challenges.

“This is going to make a tremendous difference in seniors’ lives,” she said.

Town Councilmember Rob Moore said it was exciting to see Pellerin, who he campaigned with, secure such a big win for local residents.

“It’s huge,” he said. “It’s substantial.”

It’s nice that the State is stepping in, as the Town only has the resources to go so far when it comes to providing direct support, he added.

“We care so much about our seniors,” he said. “This is the type of thing we wish we could do.”

Maureen Heath, a longtime seniors advocate in Los Gatos, described it as like a gift from heaven.

“It means all the programs that might have been cut due to funding shortages can continue,” she said.

“This is amazing.”

This kind of funding could have a snowball effect, too, according to Heath.

“Once you start adding new programs, then you start getting more participants,” she said, explaining this, in turn, leads to more programs being started. “I’m just thrilled.”

In an interview with the Los Gatan, Pellerin said everyone was anxious during budget deliberations, but explained her approach was to remain optimistic.

“We went in with a real positive attitude,” she said. “We got a lot of what we requested.”

As people live longer lives, they deserve to continue living fully, Pellerin stated.

“We really want people to be living their best lives,” she said, adding the pandemic highlighted the challenges faced by vulnerable groups.

Tom Picraux, the organizer of the Friends of Los Gatos Older Adults

nonprofit that’s charged with raising funds for seniors’ programs and capital projects, was overjoyed.

Stable support from Sacramento means his group can spend less time generating funds for programming and more time working on their vision for a new facility.

“We can focus on the fact that we need a new community center,” he said. “We want it to be a spark plug to invigorate the whole community, and a place where seniors will thrive. With help from the State, the Town and the community, we can do this.”

Rollett told the Los Gatan the funds will begin arriving in 2024 and will be used—among other things—to support a part-time case manager, to support staff operations and for community outreach efforts.

“It really allows us to extend our reach,” she said of the cash-infusion announced by Pellerin. “We’re just really delighted by her contribution.”

MOVIE SCREENING Moviegoers fill the Los Gatos Theatre on July 19 to view the premiere of “Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning Part 1.” The viewing was a fundraiser for the Veterans Memorial & Support Foundation.

Drew Penner/Los Gatan

POLICE BLOTTER

JULY 16

• A man was arrested for disorderly conduct on the 200 block of N. Santa Cruz Avenue at 9:04pm.

JULY 17

• A woman was arrested for petty theft on the 15900 block of Los Gatos Boulevard at 6:30pm.

JULY 18

• A man was arrested for giving false identification to a police officer and contempt of court on the 16100 block of Los Gatos Boulevard at 2:32pm.

JULY 19

• An unknown suspect stole an iPad from an unlocked vehicle parked on N. Santa Cruz Avenue.

JULY 20

• A man was reportedly trespassing on a property on University Avenue at 7:47pm.

• Battery was reported on Pollard Road at 10:53pm.

JULY 21

• A home was reportedly burglarized on Chester Street.

• A caller said he couldn’t sleep because there were five to six people in a pool “being loud” on Charter Oaks Drive at 1:27am.

• A caller thought a man walking on Jackson and E. Main streets wearing all black clothing and carrying an unknown object was suspicious at 2:42am.

• A man was arrested for obstructing an officer on Winchester Boulevard and Shelburne Way at 8:41am.

• A stolen vehicle was recovered on Wraight Avenue and Chester Street.

• A man was arrested for being in possession of unlawful paraphernalia on Harwood and Blossom Hill roads at 8:26pm.

JULY 22

• A business was reportedly burglarized on University Avenue.

• Three teenagers reportedly knocked on the caller’s car window on Los Gatos Boulevard to tell her there was blood on the back of

her vehicle at 1:45pm. When the driver got out of the car to check and found out that it was ketchup, the teenagers allegedly snatched her wallet from the vehicle.

• A man reportedly pickpocketed a person on N. Santa Cruz Avenue at 2:36pm.

• A home was reportedly burglarized on Kennedy Road. The caller stated some of the doors were unlocked.

• A man was arrested for being in possession of a controlled substance on Los Gatos Boulevard and Walker Street at 8:54pm.

• A caller reportedly witnessed a man hitting a woman and dragging her out of a vehicle on Las Astas Drive at 9:16pm.

• A “loud party” was reported at a home on Withey Road at 9:59pm, with the caller saying it looked like a bouncer was standing outside.

• A man was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and child abuse on W. Parr Avenue and Winchester Boulevard at 11:06pm.

MAN ON ELECTRIC SCOOTER KILLED IN COLLISION WITH SUV

Drew Penner, Reporter

A man riding an electric scooter was struck and killed by an SUV in the Camden Avenue and Highway 85 area near Los Gatos Monday morning, authorities said.

The collision occurred around 4:20am, the San Jose Police Department said.

"An adult male pedestrian was pronounced deceased on scene," a spokesperson for the department said. "The driver remained on scene and is cooperating with the investigation."

This is San Jose's 29th traffic death of the year.

According to the preliminary investigation, released Monday at 11:30am, a woman in a 2023 Chevy Trailblazer was headed westbound on Branham Lane through a green light.

That's when the SUV collided with the man on the electric scooter, who had been traveling southbound on Camden Avenue.

The victim's name had not been released, as officials were working to confirm his identity and to notify next of kin.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the San José Police Department's Traffic Investigations Unit at 4183@ sanjoseca.gov or 408.277.4654.

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

ACTORS SEEK STREAMING REVENUE

Protest, from page 1

SAG-AFTRA, the union representing 160,000 performers, joined the WGA’s movement, July 13, opening a new front in the war over compensation rules in the streaming era.

On July 19, Netflix announced it was phasing out its basic ad-free plan for American viewers, the Verge reported.

The company, which recently started cracking down on password sharing, increased its subscribers by 8% and now has 238.9 million global users, according to collider.com.

Nevertheless, it failed to meet investors’ expectations. Wall Street was hoping for the company, which was

birthed in Scotts Valley, to deliver $8.3 billion in revenue—but it came up short with $8.19 billion (and $1.5 billion in profit), the website said.

So, it was on the heels of an 8% share price tumble that actors beat a path to its Los Gatos campus.

The location was an obvious Bay Area target, explained Kathryn Howell, president of the San Francisco-Northern California SAG-AFTRA local.

“There aren’t as many (studios) here,” she said, noting while Pixar and Lucasfilm are nearby, both are subsidiaries of Burbank-based Disney, whereas this is Netflix’s global

home base. “Netflix is one of the big companies that sits on the other side of the table.”

Haffner is also part of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), which has come out in support of strikers.

Just hours earlier, IATSE reached a deal with the Broadway League and Disney Theatrical Productions to avert a strike.

Anthony Abate, from Sonoma, held up a paycheck for a penny from NBC Universal to illustrate how bad residuals can be—and why he feels the protests are vital.

“It’s about spreading the wealth,” he said. “Trickle-down economics has never worked.”

Abate was irked by a proposal from the studios that would see background actors hired for a day, to be

scanned and recreated digitally in future scenes for no extra money.

Robert Chestnut, a 60-year-old Carmel-by-the-Sea resident whose credits include “Days of Our Lives,” “Airwolf” and “Bumblebee,” also joined the picket.

He took a 15-year hiatus from acting, and when he returned to the profession, he said he was surprised to see how things had gone downhill.

“We used to have network stations, movie releases and cable,” he said. “Now that we have streaming, everything’s changed.”

Part of the problem, he explained, is that Netflix isn’t transparent about how many people watch its shows.

The actors argue they should get 2% of streaming revenue, but it’s impossible to figure out what that figure is if studios keep this information to themselves, Chestnut said.

And he had a gripe with another Silicon Valley darling—computer company-turned-entertainment behemoth Apple—for what he characterized as anti-union practices.

However, SAG-AFTRA did just grant Apple TV+ an interim agreement so it can continue filming its Israeli spy thriller “Tehran.”

Chestnut’s message to Netflix’s board of directors chair Reed Hastings, who co-founded the company and has made his home just over the hill in Santa Cruz County?

“Get your head out of your ass and support our locals, our trained professionals,” he said.

Neither Netflix nor Hastings replied to requests for comment.

Kim Jiang Dubaniewicz traveled from the North Bay to make her voice heard.

“I really wanted to support this strike,” the Mill Valley resident said. “It’s important just adding a little bit of energy into it.”

Dubaniewicz had been on a roll in her career, having won a Best Lead Actress Indie Spirit Award (2021) for her starring role in the JP Allen film “Girl In Golden Gate Park.”

But she says it’s important to fight this battle now.

“The whole system has changed, but the contracts haven’t,” she said. “All we want, really, is fair pay.”

The way things are going for workaday performers, she sees perilous waters ahead.

“There’s no middle-class actor anymore,” she said. “There’s a huge gap.”

ON STRIKE Screen Actors Guild - American Federation of Television and Radio Artists members protest in front of Netflix’s Los Gatos headquarters on July 20.

Drew Penner/Los Gatan

LIVES

Randolph “Randy” William Radonich

February 1, 1950 - June 26, 2023

Randy departed on June 26, 2023 after a brief but courageous battle with cancer. Randy was born in Santa Cruz, CA to parents Peter and Janet Radonich and is survived by his two siblings Brad (Heidi) Radonich and Janet (John) Gerodias. He was a beloved husband of Sandra Radonich, a devoted father to Nikolas (Marinella) Radonich, and Courtney (Gabriel) Esposto, and a cherished grandfather to Mateo, Samuel, Charles, and Georgia. After graduating from Los Gatos High School, Randy went on to Sonoma State College where he met his future wife, Sandy. They both received Fine Art degrees and were married happily for 50 years, bonding over their love of visual arts. He then went on to found ERS Industrial Services alongside his brother Brad, serving his colleagues with integrity and leadership for over 45 years.

Randy’s vivacious spirit infused with a passion for life, resonated with those that knew him. Through his keen sense of humor, he brought joy to those around him. Drawing upon his God given intellect, creativity and visionary outlook, Randy sought to celebrate the beauty of the landscape in this world. He embraced the majesty of the great outdoors and spent the majority of his time there. On his land, he loved driving his Jeep, Kubota and Tractor around with his grandchildren, having them help with projects outside and enjoying homemade BBQ dinners.

Rooted in heritage, Randy had a special connection to his Croatian ancestors; he devoted much of his time to his family’s historic property, Radonich Ranch in Los Gatos, CA, which has been in the family since 1919. He had been involved in planting thousands of Christmas trees on the property over the years, which provide special traditions for family and friends during the Christmas seasons. In 2007, he planted vineyards of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and over the years made delicious wines to be shared with family and friends under the label Radonich Brothers Vineyards.

Randy will be deeply missed by all. His memory will forever live on in our hearts. May our path be guided by his example of humility, gratitude, and sincere reverence for all the beauty this Earth has to give.

A Service and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2023; please visit https://celebratingrandy.com/ for more information.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Arbor Day Foundation Trees in Memory Program: https://shop.arborday.org/commemorative.

WEST VALLEY YOUTH THEATER’S ‘RENT’ WOWS AUDIENCE

Group planning for next summer’s season

Ainsley Northrop, Contributor West Valley Youth Theater (WVYT) performed its final show of “Rent” at Leigh High School Sunday night. Going out with a bang, the show was sold out and staff had to add new seats to accommodate the overflowing crowd. The dramatic acting, captivating singing, and soaring rock score performed by a live band created a powerful performance of this iconic Broadway musical.

A product of nearly three months of rehearsal, this show wowed its audience every performance. The audience couldn’t contain their praise, erupting in applause after every song, and jumping to their feet to give the performers a standing ovation as the curtain call began.

“Each cast member [did] an amazing job connecting the choreography to the text and music, to tell the story of ‘Rent,’” Choreographer Pauline Locsin-Kanter said on the rehearsal process.

After an extensive rehearsal process under the direction of Artistic Director Heather Stokes, Locsin-Kanter, Vocal Director Truesten Tautolo and Stage Manager Patrick Gammon, the cast was thrilled to begin practicing with a live band.

In order to perfect their musicality and specify vocal cues, the band met with the performers for a sitzprobe seated rehearsal. During the sitzprobe, the entirety of performers took turns standing up during the songs they are in, and learned to communicate with the band on setting the perfect tempo for each musical number.

Keira Saban, who played the roles of Alexi Darling and Elsie the Cow, explained, “Working with the band is such

a fun and unique experience because they can tailor the music to work for the specific actor. Unlike using musical tracks, having a band gives us more liberty to make the songs our own.”

Following the conclusion of WVYT’s “The Lightning Thief,” members of the “Rent” cast immediately sprung into action. They hand-painted wooden ramps, moved platforms, organized costume pieces and more. Despite the difficulty of some of these tasks, the performers

banded together, exercising consistent teamwork. Not only did performers help assemble the set, but some even banded together with employees and parent volunteers to assist in costuming and creating props.

“It [was] a great experience doing such a moving and powerful show especially while being surrounded by such amazing talent,” said Aiden Curtis, who played the role of Benjamin Coffin III in the SoHo cast. “The amazing band, stunning set, and great actors all meld perfectly together to make a tremendous show.”

The “Rent” cast was composed entirely of local high school students, some of whom have been avid performers at WVYT since they were in elementary school, while others joined WVYT this summer.

For more than two decades, WVYT staff have helped schools put on theatrical productions to introduce kids to the performance arts. During the school year, West Valley Youth Theater works with schools to create full-scale productions as well as classroom or after school performance arts programming.

WVYT is hard at work planning an expanded program of theater day camps and full-scale productions for next summer. It isn’t summer without WVYT summer theater! For information, visit WVYT.org.

ON STAGE The SoHo cast singing “Seasons of Love” during West Valley Youth Theater’s performance of “Rent,” which ended Sunday.

MUSICAL NUMBER Tommy Wilkens (Mark Cohen, from right), Reef Olivo (Tom Collins), Nick Escalada (Roger Davis) and Emilia Rodriguez (Mimi Marques) sing “Finale B.”

Courtesy of West Valley Youth Theater

FREE ADMISSION

FEATURING: LIVEWIRE, SAT, AUG 5TH

FUN FOR ALL! GREAT FOOD!

ENTERTAINMENT & LIVE MUSIC!

Limited Free Parking • Volunteer & info at ItalianFamilyFestaSJ.org

TICKETS: PRUNEYARDCINEMAS.COM

Michela Musollino, Aug 5, Sat

Gold Money Band, Sat & Sun

Anthony “Nino” Lane Band, Aug 6, Sun

Roman Encampment & Legionaries Parade

Mike Annuzzi, Aug 6, Sun

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 30: Suburban Bliss. Aug. 6: Aardvark. Aug. 13: Ruth Gerson. Aug. 20: Tortilla Soup. Aug. 27: Andre Thierry. For information, visit 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.

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

The Los Gatos Monte Sereno Police Department and neighborhoods throughout the town will celebrate National Night Out on Aug. 1 from 5-7pm. National Night Out is an annual event, recognized nationally as a community-building campaign that promotes Police/community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Neighborhoods host block parties, festivals, parades, potlucks and various other events. Los Gatos Monte Sereno Police Department will stop by your event to provide demonstrations and engage with your neighborhood.

For information, contact JRose@ losgatosca.gov or visit NATW.org.

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.

WILDFIRE PROTECTION PLAN MEETING

A public outreach meeting for the Santa Clara County Community Wildfire Protection Plan will be held Aug. 30 from 6-7:30pm at the Los Gatos Lodge, 50 Saratoga-Los Gatos Road. By having this strategic plan for all local agencies, they are able to prioritize forest health projects, shaded fuel breaks, escape routes, and public education campaigns. The CWPP aims to further wildfire preparedness initiatives throughout the county, and provide support for residents seeking resources to be better prepared for wildfire.

➝ sccfiresafe.org/cwpp.

LIVE JAZZ MUSIC

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

ENTERTAINMENT AT GARDINO’S

Gardino’s, 51 N. Santa Cruz Ave., features entertainment Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, along with Sunday afternoons.

➝ bit.ly/3OSvPHS.

ONGOING

Los Gatos Farmers Market

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

➝ cafarmersmkts.com/losgatosfarmers-market.

Campbell Farmers Market

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

➝ uvfm.org/campbell-sundays.

The Kiwanis Club of Los Gatos

The club meets the first three Thursdays of the month at noon at Double D's, 354 N. Santa Cruz Ave. First two Thursdays of the month feature guest speakers.

➝ lgkiwanisgives.org.

Rotary Club of Los Gatos

The Rotary Club of Los Gatos meets Tuesdays from noon to 1:30pm at Shir Hadash Synagogue, 20 Cherry Blossom Lane.

➝ losgatosrotary.org.

The Los Gatos Morning Rotary Club

The Club meets every Wednesday morning 7:30-8:30am at Los Gatos Lodge, 50 Los Gatos-Saratoga Road. Program includes featured guest speakers.

Los Gatos Lions Club

The Los Gatos Lions Club meets every Wednesday. A breakfast meeting is held at Moore Buick, 15500 Los Gatos Blvd., at 8am and a noon meeting at Los Gatos Lodge, 50 Los Gatos-Saratoga Road, with a guest speaker. The club has been active since 1946.

BUILDING COMMUNITY Public safety agencies will visit neighborhoods throughout Los Gatos to take part in events and other activities for National Night Out on Aug. 1.

SOIL IS MORE THAN DIRTY

Tony Tomeo, Contributor

All weeds are plants. Not all plants are weeds. Weeds are a specifiable subset of plants. Specifically, weeds are plants that grow wildly where they are undesirable. Similarly, dirt is likely soil, although it could be anything that is dirty. Soil is not merely dirt, though. Dirt is soil or a similar matter, where it is undesirable. Plants and weeds know the difference.

Most simply, soil is the loose material on the surfaces of most land. Obviously, looseness is relative. Some is quite dense and hard, but it is not solid rock, though. All of it consists of a combination of various inorganic aggregates, and most also includes various organic matter. Inorganic aggregates range in size from microscopic clay particles to substantial stones.

Soil provides stability and nutrients for vegetation that inhabits it. Roots disperse through it for structural support of their associated stems and foliage. Roots also absorb nutrients and water, as well as conduct respiration. Soils are naturally quite diverse. Vegetation is naturally more diverse to exploit various soils. Very few soils can not sustain vegetation.

Lawns are the carpets of a garden. Hedges are the walls. Tree canopies are the ceilings. Soils are the foundations. They support all vegetation that is not self-reliant in containers or epiphytically. Some soils are sandy, so drain very efficiently. Some are denser clay, so may drain slowly. Like climate and exposure, soils can limit what grows within a garden.

Most common and popular vegetation is satisfied with most common types of soil. Some, particularly vegetables and annuals, are more demanding. Even within good quality soil, they appreciate amendments such as compost. Amendments improve aeration, drainage and moisture retention. Organic amendments also provide nutrients as they decompose.

The most demanding vegetation also appreciates fertilizers. Most fertilizers are chemical or synthetic fertilizers of very precise formulation. Organic fertilizers are only slightly less precise. All allow application of specific amounts of specific nutrients for specific results.

REAL ESTATE HOME OF THE WEEK

For example, nitrogen enhances foliar growth. Also, phosphorus enhances floral growth, and fruit growth.

Highlight: Shasta daisy

Mount Shasta very rarely lacks its snow. Its summit is almost always white. Shasta daisy, Leucanthemum X superbum, strives for the same. Bright white bloom starts in spring and continues into autumn. Primary spring bloom is the most profuse. Sporadic bloom lingers between subsequent minor bloom phases. Only cooling autumn weather inhibits bloom.

Shasta daisy is a resilient perennial. It develops dense colonies of tough basal rhizomes to survive winter dormancy. From spring to autumn, upright blooming stems grow almost three feet high. Individual composite flowers are of classic daisy form with cheery yellow centers. They are excellent as cut flowers, with simple green foliage. Leaves are serrate.

Shasta daisy prefers systematic watering, but can survive with less. It tolerates only a bit of partial shade. Removal of floral stems after bloom or cutting should leave no tall stubs. Removal of all upright growth as it deteriorates into winter promotes tidier spring growth. During winter dormancy, Shasta daisy is very easy to propagate by division of rhizomes.

AREAS TO ENTERTAIN

City lights and mountain views are a constant with this Los Gatos home on an oak tree-studded lot.

Located at 490 Santa Rosa Drive, the 5,265-square-foot home includes five bedrooms and four-and-a-half bathrooms.

Living spaces include a grand living room, formal dining room, custom gourmet kitchen, family room, office and private primary suite. Red

oak floors with mahogany inlays are throughout, along with remodeled bathrooms, Victorian crown molding, fresh paint in and out and new carpet. Outside, there are several areas to relax or entertain among the natural landscapes, patio and bocce ball court.

The home, built in 1984, is listed at $4,250 by Intero Real Estate Services. For information, visit tinyurl. com/4tmwwtv3.

SANTA ROSA DRIVE This Los Gatos home features mature landscaping.

INSIDE Red oak floors with mahogany inlays are throughout.

Tony Tomeo can be contacted at tonytomeo.com.

SEEPING THROUGH Soil amendments improve percolation of moisture.

Contributed

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