Skip to main content

Los Gatan February 25, 2026

Page 1


Rennie abstained from Flag Policy vote, joined majority to OK Progress Pride Flag-raising

The Town of Los Gatos will raise a Progress Pride Flag during the month of June this year, after Council approved a Flag Policy update and a Pride Flag resolution, following heartfelt public comments from a contingent of local high schoolers on Feb. 17.

Unlike the significant opposition expressed during the prior meeting on the subject, this time, the vast majority of statements were in support of the plan to hoist the rainbow colors.

“I was really confident we would get this passed,” said Lee Cummings, a 16-year-old junior at Los Gatos high school. “I’m just really excited that it actually did happen.”

The first step was for the Council to consider a Flag Policy update, to add the ability to raise commemorative flags.

Staff recommended these rules: A display must be initiated by a Councilmember; approval must occur by a resolution of the Council; the resolution must confirm it’s a form of government speech—and is consistent with the Town’s strategic priorities; it can only occur at a single flagpole at Town Hall; flying the flag is limited to a period no more than 31 consecutive days; and each

SCRAPPY THE CAT IS THE TOWN’S NEW UNOFFICIAL MONUMENT

Resident saved her recycling to make sustainable statue

Faizi Samadani, Contributor Scrappy the Los Gatos trash-gato is Lauren Surrette’s newest artwork, and it’s creating quite a stir. She started with a turkey for Thanksgiving, and a snowman for Christmas. And now, made from recyclables at home (where she lives with her family), Scrappy the Cat is Surrette’s newest addition to her upcycling collection.

Since it went on display in February, thousands of people have seen it—thanks to how visible it is, as they live along Blossom Hill Road. Surrette says, while there are always some naysayers, 90% of the feedback has been positive. She’s hoping Scrappy will stand for years to come. Los Gatos is named after the cougars that famously roam the Santa Cruz Mountains. There are several

➝ Scrappy, 6

THE BILLLISTER TEAM

BILL LISTER TEAM

THE BILLLISTER TEAM

19095 SARATOGA GLEN PL SARATOGA, CA

$3,750,000 4 BEDS | 2.5 BATHS | 2 CAR GARAGE +- 2,534 Sq. Ft

Lovely one level Saratoga home centrally located on a tree-lined street

• Remodeled kitchen with glazed cabinets, slab granite counters, tiled backsplash, stainless steel appliances including a built-in microwave, and a gas cooktop range. Built-in desk work center, bay window with an electric window shade and a walk-in pantry & breakfast bar.

• Great room with built-in cabinetry & trey ceiling

• Formal dining room with trey ceiling & slider to backyard

• Separate large family room with skylights, high beamed ceiling, gas fireplace and wood slider to backyard

• Bedrooms with carpeting and plantation shutters

• Large hall bath with shower over tub, skylight, high ceiling, and double sinks

• Spacious primary bedroom with two closets including a walk-in with custom built-in cabinetry. Remodeled primary bathroom with stall shower and stone surfaces & skylight. Extra built-in cabinets

• Separate office/den with built-in cabinetry, counters, file drawers, trey ceiling and custom mouldings

• Hardwood floors throughout most of the home

• Inside laundry room with shelving

• 1/2 bath for guests

• Beautiful built-in pebble tec pool with solar, beach access and waterfall. Mature landscaping, fruit trees, avocado tree, garden area, covered pergola

• 2 car garage with cabinets and loft area for storage

• Country Lane Elementary, Moreland Middle School & Prospect High School

410 N. Santa Cruz Avenue Los Gatos, CA 95030 (408)

VOL.5 NO.26

Dan Pulcrano Executive Editor & Publisher

EDITORIAL

editor@losgatan.com

Drew Penner

Managing Editor

Emanuel Lee

Sports Editor

Dinah Cotton, Faizi Samadani, Jeffrey P. Blum, Olga Enciso Smith, Anika Kapasi Contributors

ADVERTISING

advertising@losgatan.com

Kate Kauffman

Senior Account Executive

Tiffany Birch Account Executive

PRODUCTION

Cindy Couling

Director of Creative Services

Deb Fischer

Creative Services Production Manager

Zk Bradley

Editorial Production Manager

Haley Tweedell

Assistant Editorial Production Manager

Saoirse Alesandro

Editorial Production Designer

Jen Meyer, Jackie Mujica, Elena Razgonov, Rowdy Tompkins, Graphic Designers

WEEKLYS

Mike Lyon

Digital Media

Sonia Chavez Accounts Receivables

Warren Giancaterino Information Technology

LEGAL ADS

legals@losgatan.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

subscriptions@losgatan.com

DEATH NOTICES

Death notices with basic information that are submitted to editor@losgatan.com may be published on a space-available basis only. To place a paid, unedited obituary with a photo, call 707.353.1148 or email LifeTributes@Weeklys.com.

OPINIONS

Commentaries and letters to the editor on our Opinion pages reflect the opinions of the authors. We welcome letters to the editor and commentaries on all topics of local interest. Email your submissions to editor@losgatan.com

Letters must include the writer’s name and hometown (for publication) and phone number (for verification).

Submissions may be edited, and will be published as space permits. Letters are limited to 250 words, commentaries to 500 words.

CORRECTIONS

We strive to avoid errors in news and ads. Mistakes sometimes occur. To report errors, call or email; corrections will appear in the next edition and online.

WHO WE ARE

Los Gatan is published Wednesdays by Weeklys. Contents copyright ©2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form prohibited without written permission.

REAL ESTATE ADVERTISING

All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based upon race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, familial status or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Publisher will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Ad

Sponsored by InvestInMentalHealth.org & the Los Gatos Community Grant.

The fountain at Town Plaza Park has been out-of-service for months. But Council just approved more

A FOUNTAIN WITHOUT WATER TO BE FIXED

Park Plaza spout loved by children is finally coming back

Dina Cotton, Contributor

Some very good news, I think. From last week’s Council meeting’s consent calendar: “Authorize the Town Manager to Execute a Second Amendment to the Agreement for Services with Pacific Water Art, Inc. to Increase the Agreement Amount for Additional Maintenance and Repair Costs.” Yes, this is about fixing the broken public fountain downtown.

Council voted unanimously to execute a second amendment to the agreement for services for Water Fountain Maintenance and Repair with Pacific Water Art, Inc., increasing the agreement amount by $25,397 for a total not to exceed $102,853.

A call into Pacific Water Art, the named vendor for maintenance-repair has not been returned for comment at press time.

The agreement covers both the very large fountain outside Town Hall Plaza and the non-working one at Los Gatos Park Plaza.

“Pacific Water Art originally built the fountain at Plaza Park and has since been the only contractor to perform routine service or maintenance on it,” the staff report to Council states, noting that happened in the early 2000—and also notes UV repairs were required last year.

“In November 2025, after the UV system repairs were made, the fountain could only be manually operated. After troubleshooting the unit, it was discovered that the main control board had failed and needed to be replaced. Staff asked Pacific Water Art to inspect all other components of the fountain. During this investigation, it was discovered that the chemical dosing system was also in need of repair. Most components are original to the installation of the fountain and have outlasted their useful life cycle.”

All last summer, children didn’t have a working fountain to play in.

The current amendment is meant to to cover additional repairs required to restore the spout.

Hopefully, when the repair schedule is released by Pacific Water Art, it will be announced at a Council meeting.

The most recent information I re -

OPINION ON HANGING SPECIAL INTEREST FLAGS ON OUR CIVIC CENTER FLAGPOLE

(Response to “Following impassioned pleas from high schoolers, Los Gatos agrees to raise Progress Pride Flag,” which was published on LosGatan.com on Feb. 19.)

Thank you Council members for your dedicated service and hard work. Supporting marginalized groups and inclusion is a good thing. These groups have made large contributions to, and have been an active part of our community, since my family moved here in 1974. It’s great that they are finding a place and a voice in our society.

I am certain that voting in favor of allowing the hanging of this banner in support of a marginalized group was done with the very best of intentions, and bravo to those intentions.

However, IMHO, this is why I believe that hanging special interest flags on our Civic Center flagpole showing official political support for any special interest group is a mistake:

First, there are over 30 known pride flags representing different aspects of the LGBTQ+ community alone, and some articles have stated that up to 150 different flags exist altogether.

ceived from the Town is that this fountain will be repaired soon—spring-ish. (And spring starts on March 20).

I sure do hope that when this fountain is repaired it will be programmed to be turned off during Jazz on the Plazz, which starts July 8. Note, next week we will have the details of who will be performing this summer. I have been assured that it will be a “stellar line up.”

This was not a concern last year. Last year during the spring-summer-winter (and into this year) this fountain didn’t have any water. No need to start it on those live, outdoor summer productions.

Recent quote from Nextdoor: “I’ve sent several requests for information about the town plaza fountain. Last I heard, it would be fixed by September 2025 (last year!). What is the status? I don’t want to go through another spring and summer without this asset. Pros or cons, many people come during the day to play or picnic by the fountain.Bring it Back!” –Theresa Whitney of Los Gatos

Also, may I request lights in this fountain? Like the Bellagio dancing fountain in Las Vegas. Why not? We are a colorful town. Does this sound good to other residents?

Who decides who hangs their flag next? Then, there are hundreds or even thousands of flags and banners representing special interest groups and agendas of all kinds. Flags representing religious, racial, ethnic, socio-economic and political affiliations are among them. By hanging a flag representing a special interest group of any type and showing official political support for that group of any kind, you have now opened the town up to endless contentious debate and potential lawsuits over favoritism and discrimination over whose flag should be hung next, and who is being shown favoritism.

For example, I am sure the majority of the people in town would agree that hanging the KKK banner would be completely inappropriate, but who draws that line? Does the KKK now have the same flag-hanging rights as the next group? If not, we may have a serious problem.

I am sure that there are residents of the town who feel that hanging this Progress Pride Flag is completely inappropriate and against their views. Our Civic Center belongs to our whole community, and by showing support for one group, we are automatically marginalizing others. Therefore, I don’t believe special interest flags should have a place on our flagpole.

SITTING IDLE
money to fix it again.
Los Gatos

Stunning Almaden Valley Remodeled Gem

$1,989,000

4 Bedrooms | 2.5

Step into sun-splashed designer interiors featuring high ceilings, rich luxury vinyl floors, and a breathtaking chandelier in the formal entry. The chef's kitchen boasts quartz counters, gas range, double-drawer French door refrigerator, and custom cabinetry—flowing seamlessly to the family room and outdoor paradise.

Walls of glass reveal a captivating park-like backyard with huge patio, custom pool with waterfall and spa, gazebo, fruit trees, and lush lawns. Pure party central. The main-level primary suite dazzles with spa-like luxury: heated floors, heated towel bar, and heated fogless mirror.

Additional highlights include formal dining overlooking a mini-vineyard, indoor laundry room, central A/C, and thoughtful upgrades throughout. This is Almaden Valley living at its finest.

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.

lucyandkeith.com

SNOWBOARDING, SNOWMEN AND SNOWBALL FIGHTS IN LOS GATOS

Enjoying the very rare occurrence of frozen precipitation in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Drew Penner, Editor

Santiago Ibarra took the fluffy (if a little wet) snow, formed it into a ball and launched it like a rocket towards his unsuspecting older sister Adilene.

They’d come up to Sempervirens Point Day Use Area at Castle Rock State Park from their home in Ben Lomond, Feb. 18, to enjoy an incredibly rare phenomenon—a dump of snow in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Greg Sumter, a park maintenance assistant, looked on, just as enthralled by the white stuff falling from the heavens.

“We’re at—oh geez—about twenty-five-hundred feet and the snow level dropped to below that,” he said. “And it’s cold, so it’s sticky.”

Sumter said the blanket of snow provided the perfect opportunity for people to enjoy nature’s bounty.

“That’s the beauty of it. That’s the real deal of the job—just being outside,” he said, reflecting on his chosen line of work. “Literally, we are made of nature, right? The medals, liquids and minerals of the Earth is what makes up the deposits in our body. And to be outside and be connected with those is so important. Our world caters to more being inside,

you know, sitting behind a desk—which isn’t good. And just the simple things of, picking up trash, bending over and scrubbing toilets, and painting and sweeping, all these little actions are so good for the human body.”

Up at the main entrance to Los Gatos’ Castle Rock State Park, which had been closed the previous day due to stormy conditions (and after two people had to

be rescued from the San Lorenzo River), the Colburn family had gathered from across Santa Clara County.

Mary, 7, and her sister Lindsey, 9, were pushing snow spheres.

“I think it’s great because I like cold temperatures,” Lindsey said. “It’s just like sand, but it’s really cold.”

More snowballs sailed through the air, as a snowplow cleared the parking lot.

Yours truly even got a brief snowboarding session in there along Skyline Boulevard. Scott Sipes, a California State Parks superintendent with the Santa Cruz office, was out in his short sleeve uniform—but with a toque covering his noggin.

“This is something that people in the Bay Area don’t see often,” he said. “We try to provide people a safe place to get off the highway and actually enjoy the snow.”

SCRAPPY THE CAT WAS CONSTRUCTED FROM RECYCLABLES

Scrappy, from page 1

monuments around town that embody the feline form. Though Scrappy is on the unofficial side, Surrette says she hopes her newest contribution to the community’s visual identity will not only speak to critics, but will also send a message of what residents can do with their recycling. “We found some old PVC from our yard that we broke in irrigation and made a little frame for Scrappy,” she said. “We saved old hard plastics like protein powder containers, clamshell containers and shampoo bottles.” Scrappy slowly emerged, one old item at a time. “I took chunks of plastic bags and (wound) them around and glued them to the PVC frame to get it into shape.”

Once the frame was done, Scrappy was crocheted together in long chains, then glued. The next chapter of Scrappy’s origin story was to spray-paint him gray, giving him a statuesque look. He came to “life” on Valentine’s Day. Surrette has plans to dress eight-foot-tall Scrappy up

for holidays like St. Patrick’s Day, Pride Month, Easter and Halloween. To her, it’s the community aspect of art that’s the most special thing.

Surrette’s husband Steve assisted with the installation. He sold his company, Inflection IT (a company of roughly 35 employees focused on IT services, software implementation and data integration) in August. He started it 11 years ago in Los Gatos. Steve’s been really impressed by how Scrappy came together.

They’re very proud to do a project like this with their children. They hope Scrappy brings joy to everyone who sees him. Scrappy is a helpful reminder about the waste we generate, they say. Last year, some schoolchildren were asking to be driven by their house so they could see what decorations they had up for different holidays. In recent days Scrappy has already begun to inspire the next generation to consider sustainability practices.

Neighbors contribute their recycling

Surrette does yard duty at her children’s school, where she would encourage her kids to pick up trash and help collect little pieces. The trash saving process began a few months back. But it took a month to crochet the chain, and then another month or so to put the form together.

Before being a full-time mother, Surrette was an elementary school teacher. She says she has no plans as of now to take this on as a new career. Rather, she sees it as a hobby. Once Surrette began posting about the process of making Scrappy via social media stories, her friends began reaching out, offering their trash to be a part of Scrappy’s existence.

Surrette says that some people are intrigued by the newer aluminum statues that were put up in the last several years. But there’s been some criticism, too. Late last year, the Los Gatan interviewed the artist who made those: Matt Babcock. Be-

ing aware of how those statues have been received, Surrette says that she understands people have very strong opinions and often prefer more traditional styles. As a newcomer to the public art world in town, Scrappy the Cat seems to fall somewhere in between. “It goes to show that it’s vulnerable to share art, but it’s also vulnerable to look at art and to receive that,” she said. “Somebody felt that it was a bit too much and thought he looked like an angry bunny.”

When driving by, Scrappy is almost indistinguishable from a regular cat statue. Pronouncing himself as a mock-cement animal allows him to blend in with fellow feline statues in town, while still hinting at his true identity (upon a closer viewing). “When we have an emotional reaction to art, what does that say? What’s going on inside of ourselves that we feel like that?” asks the creator. Scrappy the Cat speaks to the artistic eye in everyone, but also manages to comment on our society’s consumption and recycling processes.

PARKS WORKER On days like this, Greg Sumter can’t help but love his job.
Drew Penner / Los Gatan

Nearly a Century of Service: A Los Gatos Family Business Built on Trust

Some businesses grow through marketing. Others endure through relationships. For nearly a century, one family’s presence in the insurance industry and in the heart of Los Gatos has been built on the latter.

The story began in 1929, when George Prevot, born in San Jose, entered the insurance business at a time when neighbors knew one another and a person’s word meant everything. Insurance, for George, was never just paperwork. It was a way to help families and business owners survive uncertain times, grow with confidence, and protect what they worked so hard to build.

That commitment carried forward through his sons, Bill and Michael Prevot, who continued the family tradition while keeping its values firmly intact. Today, the business is a partnership with Christina, Sandie —his wife of 45 years—and Mike, representing three generations working side by side. As they look ahead to celebrating 100 years in 2029, the Prevot family takes pride in a legacy rooted in service, integrity, and community.

The brokerage is located on University Avenue near Oak Meadow and Vasona Parks, a setting that reflects its close connection to Los Gatos. While the firm serves clients across California, throughout the country, and internationally, its foundation remains local. The team specializes exclusively in commercial insurance, helping business owners understand risk and protect their livelihoods with clarity and confidence.

From Workers’ Compensation and Property coverage to General Liability and International insurance programs, the firm provides full-service support tailored to businesses of all types. Their approach is personal and

practical. They recognize that no two businesses face the same challenges, and no two solutions should look exactly alike.

A proud milestone came 20 years ago, when the third generation officially joined the firm. Christina Prevot Caufield started the day after graduating from college, stepping into a business that had shaped her life from the beginning. Over the years, she has grown into a key leader, guiding clients through an increasingly complex insurance environment while honoring the family’s longstanding commitment to personal service and trusted advice.

Today, the firm works with a wide range of organizations—from emerging companies solving tomorrow’s problems to established enterprises with complex operations and unique risks. Their experience spans high-tech ventures, specialized industries, and nonprofit organizations. Regardless of size or complexity, clients know they have a team that understands their business, anticipates challenges, and stands beside them when it matters most.

What has not changed over the decades is the firm’s belief that insurance is about people first. It means answering the phone, quickly responding to an email. It means explaining coverage clearly. It means being present when clients need guidance or support. In a world increasingly shaped by call centers and automation, the Prevot family and their team continues to offer something rare: continuity, accountability, and genuine care.

As Los Gatos grows and evolves, this family-owned brokerage looks forward to serving the next generation of local businesses—just as they have for nearly 100 years—proving that trust, once earned, can last a lifetime.

George Prevot
Sandie Prevot, Michael Prevot & Christina Prevot Caufield

JURORS MULL SHANNON O’CONNOR’S

GUILT, AS DA’S ARGUMENTS CLOSE

Defense says DA gave boy immunity and accused him of rape to implicate client

Drew Penner, Editor

Over the past week in Santa Clara County Superior Court, jurors at the Shannon O’Connor trial listened to closing arguments about the Los Gatos mother who’s accused of hosting parties for local teens and encouraging them to hook up with one another for her own purposes.

And on Monday, defense lawyer Stephen Prekoski delivered a theatrical show as he sought to undermine the prosecution’s two-day summation, arguing the case relies on a “whackadoo theory” of how his client could be guilty for someone else’s sexual activity.

“She liked—maybe even loved—respected these kids,” he said. “Where was this evidence that she wanted them to get raped?”

‘You owe it to this community, and the victims, to actually look at the evidence and apply it to the law.’
—Joanna Lee, deputy district attorney

years already, as her California Supreme Court bid for pre-trial release failed. Witnesses had testified they needed her to be locked-up in order to properly heal from the psychological wounds she inflicted on them.

Prekoski told the jury this passage of time affected witnesses’ memories. The DA’s Office overcharged O’Connor to create a sensational narrative, he contended.

“The District Attorney wants this to be a sex case,” he said.

That language got under the skin of Deputy District Attorney Joanna Lee, and she asked the judge if they could approach.

Judge Elizabeth C. Peterson heard Lee’s complaint—which began to rise above the hushed tones of a regular impromptu bench conference—and from Prekoski; she calmly responded, then sent them back to their positions.

Essentially, Prekoski argued, the prosecution says the teens engaged in sexual activity encouraged by his client, but that O’Connor somehow knew—beforehand—that rape would occur.

The DA’s Office accused O’Connor of being a dupe or an “aider and abettor”— like an accomplice in a drive-by shooting—rather than a somewhat out-of-line parent, he said.

Prekoski clarified that he understands O’Connor’s behavior—such as frequent messaging with teens—wasn’t the norm. “I think it might have been weird or inappropriate.”

But, he said, O’Connor never told them to do anything without getting the goahead first.

Prekoski also said his client didn’t dissuade witnesses from testifying—another accusation—comparing what happened to telling his kids not to speak up while getting pulled over by the police.

“I say, ‘I got this. I’ll do the talking,’” offered Prekoski, making a reference to kidnapping that would later be criticized by Lee.

Prekoski’s theatrics included shouting towards the jury box, slamming his left hand on the podium, swiftly moving towards his client and pointing at her, and raising his left pinky.

He told the jury to expect the prosecution to denigrate him after lunch, on rebuttal.

“I don’t get to talk anymore,” he said. “I’m sort of like a DA sandwich. I’m the meat between the two (pieces of) bread that is Ms. Lee.”

A sigh followed from the prosecution table. He wasn’t wrong though. Lee attacked him right away.

“He doesn’t have the law; he doesn’t have the facts. All he did was yell at you,” she remarked. “You are smarter than that.”

Don’t forget, these are victims who have dealt with real trauma, Lee added.

“You owe it to this community, and the victims, to actually look at the evidence and apply it to the law,” she said, referring, among other things, to the time in June 2020 when a kid with a serious medical condition ended up vomiting at a party and O’Connor kept the situation under wraps. “She sees from the very beginning the risk, the risk of great bodily injury.”

POLICE BLOTTER

FEB. 15

• A caller reported a suspicious person placing a bottle of alcohol in a stroller at Safeway on North Santa Cruz Avenue at 1:15pm. The same subject was later reported at 10:20pm in the alcohol aisle and was suspected of attempting to steal again.

• A naked man with a black bag wrapped around him stole an umbrella and threatened to hit a worker at Ivy Park at Los Gatos on Blossom Hill Road at 9:25pm. The male was arrested on an outstanding warrant.

FEB. 16

• A man was reported allegedly carrying a machete on his left hip on West Main Street and University Avenue at 7:16pm.

FEB. 17

• A caller reported his credit cards were used after his wallet was stolen at Los Gatos Boulevard and Loma Alta Avenue at 2:31pm.

• A subject was reported to be possibly under the influence of drugs after parking their vehicle on the sidewalk of Safeway on Union Ave at 11:18pm.

FEB. 18

• A caller reported that five Sonos boxes were taken from their home on Prospect Avenue at 12:02pm.

• An officer recovered a stolen vehicle at Andrews Street and North Santa Cruz Avenue at 6:52pm.

O’Connor is accused of 63 offenses, including many counts of child endangerment and furnishing alcohol for a minor. She pleaded not guilty to all of the charges.

Prekoski, who did not call any witnesses, said he knows the jury has a lot of work ahead, given how much evidence has been presented.

“We’re talking 16 weeks of testimony. This is not an easy exercise,” he said. “I know that your notes are outstanding. I can tell from the quality of questions that you asked.”

(There was a juror who was dismissed, last month, for failing to avoid reporting about the case.)

O’Connor has been behind bars for

“If I’m suggesting you go make out with a girl, and [something else] ends up happening … without her consent?” He asked jury members if that could have been foreseen. “Our suggestion is, absolutely not.”

The defense pointed to evidence of times where the kids engaged in sexual activity while unaware of O’Connor’s whereabouts, quoting statements from witnesses who, when asked, confirmed they didn’t say “no” to certain acts.

“The intoxicating substance did not prevent their resistance,” he said. “It isn’t true that these girls were prevented from resisting. They calculated what they wanted, and they didn’t resist because they didn’t want to.”

During the trial, some witnesses became emotional as they recalled how O’Connor stage-managed their social activities and orchestrated their sex lives.

Lee put up a presentation slide that featured a long list of the instances when she says the kids were in real danger.

“I wrote them all out—probably because I was upset,” she admitted. “These kids drink until their wheels fall off…until their bodies actually gave out.”

Another slide included the definition of consent, and Lee said she was irked by the defense’s “insane” statements on the topic.

“It is freely and voluntarily given by someone who knows the nature of the act involved,” she said, contrasting that with the evidence showing teens who are “unable to sit upright, heads are flopping, cannot walk and need to be carried, cannot keep a head above water.”

But, she added, it’s okay to still be confused about O’Connor’s motive.

“She is like some weird perverted mishmash of adult and child,” Lee said. “It will never make sense to you, like, if you’re a normal law-abiding citizen.”

The jury began deliberating on Tuesday.

FEB. 19

• A caller reported that the driver involved in a collision with her at Netflix on Albright Way was refusing to provide their information at 9:51am. No injuries were reported.

• Someone stole the caller’s purse from their unlocked vehicle at Century Medallion on Winchester Boulevard at 3:14pm.

FEB. 20

• A vehicle crashed into a creek bed near Quito and Montclair roads at 6:56am. Officers found the airbags deployed, but no one present.

Reports are compiled from publicly available information released by police.

COUNCIL WILL HOLD RAINBOW FLAG-RAISING IN JUNE

Pride Flag, from page 1

flag-raising requires a separate Council approval.

A local resident who introduced himself as “Captain Seuss” wore a bicorn hat with a white feather and said he thought, if the Council was going to allow different flags to be flown, that they should fly a pirate’s insignia first.

Vice Mayor Maria Ristow—noting that the Council is now using Judge Dave Rosenberg’s “Rosenberg’s Rules of Order”—offered a motion to kick off the discussion.

“I think this is a great idea,” she said. “We certainly have heard from our community that we would want to have the opportunity to raise the Pride Flag.”

Councilmember Matthew Hudes said, while he’s supportive of raising the Progress Pride Flag, he wanted to make sure the Flag Policy itself is something that will stand the test of time.

“One of the challenges of flying something other than an official state or other municipal flag is determining whether that represents the sentiment of the community or the will of the community,” he said.

He wondered if it might be worth requiring a supermajority—but that didn’t take hold.

Councilmember Mary Badame—who voted against updating the flag policy in December—said there “could be an equity issue” if you opt to fly the flag of one group over another. She said opening up a Town flagpole to commemorative flags could bring out divisiveness in the community. Then, she remained silent.

With Mayor Rob Moore an enthusiastic “aye” from the get-go, once again it was Councilmember Rob Rennie who was most on the fence.

“As I said last time, I have lots of con -

cerns about using the flag pole for…government speech,” Rennie said. “We need to try to keep the government to the basic services.”

Agreeing to fly one flag vs. another is kind of like picking winners and losers, he mused.

“I think that’s an area that the Town should not be going into,” he said, almost hinting he might be leaning towards opposing the Pride Flag plan. “We need to be fair to everybody.”

(Though he did say it could be fun to allow a sister municipality’s flag to flutter in these Silicon Valley reaches.)

Because Rennie decided to abstain from the Flag Policy vote, it resulted in a unique 3-1-1 decision. That set the stage for the Pride Flag discussion. Meaning: though it seemed likely the resolution would pass, it wasn’t obvious how clear of a message the Council—which appears to have no appetite for explicitly restricting ICE from using Town facilities (in contrast with some neighbors)—wanted to send on another signature progressive priority.

The staff report looked at 10 neighboring jurisdictions, though it didn’t examine what’s been going on next door in Santa Cruz County.

Staff found five municipalities (Milpitas, Morgan Hill, Mountain View, San Jose and Sunnyvale) have formalized Pride flag displays via Council resolution or an annual commemorative flag calendar—where the Pride or Progress Pride flag-raising is authorized by formal Council action and is limited in duration and location.

Three communities (Gilroy, Los Altos and Los Altos Hills) allow commemorative or ceremonial flags by Council resolution, but it doesn’t happen automatically.

Santa Clara limits flag displays to governmental and narrowly-defined ceremonial flags approved by resolution (a Pride Flag isn’t part of its base policy).

Meanwhile, Campbell doesn’t allow commemorative flags on flagpoles; but it does mark Pride Month annually, including by decorating its water tower in support of the LGBT+ community.

The Los Gatos resolution notes “the first Pride flag was created by American artist and gay rights activist Gilbert Baker in 1978” and that “the Progress Pride Flag, designed by Daniel Quasar in 2018, adds a chevron of black, brown, light blue, pink, and white stripes to the standard six-color Rainbow Flag to represent marginalized people of color, trans individuals, and those living with HIV/AIDS”.

It states a Progress Pride Flag display “constitutes government speech in that the history and symbolism of the flag constitute a message of inclusion, equity, and diversity” and that “the display of this flag is consistent with the Town’s 2025-2027 strategic priority to ‘Ensure all residents and visitors feel a sense of belonging in Los Gatos, maintaining and enhancing the Town as a welcoming, family-oriented, safe, and inclusive community, and does not convey any message promoting religion, political candidates, or commercial transactions.’”

During verbal communications, Elijah Asheghian, a junior at Los Gatos High School, said many transgender youths have considered suicide, and argued raising the Progress Pride Flag would be a positive thing to do to support their mental health.

“This is just a flag,” he said. “No one is going to become gay because of a flag.”

“Captain Seuss” returned to the podi-

um, this time in a red ballcap, introducing himself as “Gus Who”. He said the hearing wasn’t properly advertised, and suggested this might be why the opposing voices of the previous hearing weren’t at this meeting.

“Gus Who” also theorized that Mayor Rob Moore was behind getting teenagers to advocate for the Pride Flag.

“You’re using high school kids, and they’re threatening people,” he said. “You don’t use kids that way.”

Chesle Bae, an LGHS senior, said in her work as a nursing assistant she’s seen how some of the area’s most advancedin-years are only now coming out of the closet after keeping their true identities hidden for decades.

Sue Ann Lorig, who’s been trying to convince the Council to raise a Pride Flag since at least last June, was back, calling it “just such a simple thing to do.”

It was the public comments from 16-year-old Siyona Singhal, an 11th Grader, that seemed to have played the biggest role in shifting the balance of power, however slightly.

Considering her personal experience, it’s a little ridiculous to claim that homophobia isn’t a serious problem in Los Gatos, she said.

“How can anyone truly believe that?” she asked rhetorically, thinking back to negative comments she encountered while in 7th Grade. “I never felt truly comfortable, or truly myself.”

Luckily, she added, she was invited to a Club 41 meeting at her school’s wellness center, she said, explaining that’s a place she’d go to play board games or the piano. She talked about the time they created a pro-LGBT+ poster that

FEELING VICTORIOUS The high schoolers who spoke at the meeting gather after the second vote.

was later vandalized. This, she recalled, was crushing.

“Out of fear we never signed another poster,” she said.

Singhal called out the fact that Los Gatos leaders love to make vague statements like “You Belong in Los Gatos” (referring to banners hung around town), but haven’t actually raised a Pride Flag officially as a municipality.

“You owe it to the underrepresented LGBTQ youth in Los Gatos,” she said. “They deserve more than slogans and surface-level support.”

As she began to walk away, Councilmember Rennie called her back up.

“I come from a different generation,” he told her, noting that he has a brother and a step-daughter who are gay; he said he worries flying a Pride Flag might do more harm than good.

“Why is it important that the Town flies the flag?” he asked, sharing he’s afraid it could “bring out more hate against the community” she wants to support.

Singhal was not expecting to be put on the

spot like that. But she rose to the occasion.

“It was scary,” she said afterwards, thinking of the teachable moment for Rennie, “—especially when he asked me a question.”

She took a beat, and then began.

“It’s a loaded question, but I’ll try my best,” she said.

Singhal painted a picture of kids walking through town to grab a bite to eat.

Seeing a rainbow flag would help combat negative attitudes that can make some kids—who in terms of their identity are not in the majority—feel so small.

“It felt really good to get up there and say something important, and share an important perspective,” she told the Los Gatan.

Lee Cummings said she was a little nervous to speak in front of Council, too.

“It was a little scary. I’m not very good at public speaking,” she said. But, she added, “I had something to say.”

Ultimately, Rob Rennie decided to join Hudes, Ristow and Moore in support of a Progress Pride Flag-raising in June, meaning just Badame voted against.

GUEST VIEW

Beyond technology and innovation

The rich cultural heart of SV welcomes the world

Olga Enciso Smith, Contributor

Silicon Valley is not just the epicenter of high technology and global innovation; it is a unique cultural mosaic that has inspired generations of entrepreneurs and visionaries. Here, diversity is not a slogan—it is the essence that has allowed revolutionary ideas to be born and thrive. With the FIFA World Cup (2026), the recent Super Bowl and other world-class sporting events, we have an extraordinary opportunity to show the world what makes our region special. Silicon Valley flourished and continues to flourish thanks to the coexistence of cultures, languages, and traditions beginning with our original native dwellers that are woven into our daily lives. And from Mexican tacos, Colombian arepas, Peruvian ceviche—to Vietnamese, Korean, Italian, and other cuisines—our gastronomy reflects the richness of our roots. Ethnic festivals, folk music, and traditional dances are not just entertainment—they are the inspiration that fuels the creativity of engineers, entrepreneurs and scientists. We invite visitors to discover more than just technology: to explore our mountains, admire the majestic redwoods, and

To read the full story, head to LosGatan.com.

Jump Head:

Council will hold a rainbow flag-raising in June (End for Print)

enjoy the colors of our beautiful Silicon Valley, which used to be known as the Valley of Heart’s Delight. To share meals and stories in local restaurants, food trucks, and family-owned businesses that persist in anchoring the distinct character of our neighborhoods and friendly downtowns. They remain at the heart of our communities, delivering human connection in an era of digital isolation.

Silicon Valley is a place where innovation meets humanity. Where technological wealth must go hand in hand with inclusion and equity. Today, more than ever, we are called to celebrate, recognize and care for what has made this region thrive: our diversity. Because here multiculturalism is not only lived, it is shared and is a driving force of a better future.

Welcome, players and fans! Welcome to a region where technology and diversity go hand-in-hand, shaping a place unlike anywhere else in the world. We invite you to experience all that makes Silicon Valley—and the communities that surround it—extraordinary.

Olga Enciso Smith is a community organizer and founder MPGA/Machu Picchu Gallery of the Americas (est. 1974). Co-Founder Ikiam Foundation for Amazonian Rainforest Conservation (est. 2024).

Cummings said when she was attending Dave’s Elementary her aunt was evicted from her apartment in Sacramento for hanging a Pride Flag out her window.

She started getting emotional recounting how that discrimination was confusing to her for a long time, since the environment she’d been raised in here had been so supportive.

“I’d never been afraid to love, like my aunt had,” she said. “My teachers, and my neighbors, and my camp counselors made sure of that.”

But, she continued, that’s changed—as America appears to be heading down a darker path.

Nondistruptive underground drilling saves your lawn, gardens and hardscapes.

“I don’t feel that kindness anymore,” she said. “We are going backwards into hate and fear. And I can see it in the whispers in my school hallways, and in the looks my friends and my neighbors and I receive from people who used to be kind. So, today I’m asking this community to show us that they care, and to place value on the diversity that makes this town beautiful. But most of all, I’m asking them—and I’m asking you—to choose kindness. Because the only thing…that’s stronger than hate is love.”

Ultimately, Rob Rennie decided to join Hudes, Ristow and Moore in support of a Progress Pride Flag-raising in June, meaning just Badame voted against.

“I’m really glad we were able to convince Rennie,” said Asheghian.

Cummings said it ended up being quite a positive experience sharing her story in Council Chambers.

“I felt heard,” she said.

Cutlines:

Photos by Drew Penner / Los Gatan

(Lee Cummings - closeup)

Low water pressure? Slow drain?

SOMETHING TO SAY - Lee Cummings said it was a little scary to step up to the podium. But, she said it was important to urge Los Gatos’ leaders to “choose kindness.”

(Captain Seuss)

PUBLIC COMMENT “Captain Seuss” and his bicorn hat.

TOWN MANAGER Chris Constantin introduces the Flag Policy update plan.

NURSING ASSISTANT Chesle Bae told Council members raising the Progress Pride Flag is a way of supporting older folks, too, not just youth.

Leaking, corroded, or clogged pipes can cause weak showers, sluggish drains and higher water bills.

MAKING AN ARGUMENT Elijah Asheghian was the first of the high schoolers to speak during public comment.

ON THE SPOT Siyona Singhal was caught off-guard by a question from Rob Rennie. But she rose to the occasion. (Drew Penner / Los Gatan)

(Lee Cummings - wide shot)

TrenchFree replaces old water mains and sewer lines using cutting-edge trenchless technology — without excavating and tearing up the entire yard.

TELLING HER STORY Cummings said she’s worried “We are going backwards into hate and fear.”

(Group photo of high school students)

As the Bay Area’s trenchless technology leader, we save you time and money.

FEELING VICTORIOUS The high schoolers who spoke at the meeting gather after the second vote.

VICE MAYOR Maria Ristow speaks as Mayor Rob Moore takes in her words. (Drew Penner / Los Gatan)(End for Print)

“And sometimes it’s tough to tell.”

Call TrenchFree today for a free consultation and video camera inspection of your aging underground plumbing.

No one else spoke before the public comment period was closed, but high school students began to filter in from the stormy outdoors, preparing themselves for the next item.

NUMU boardmember Jan Schwartz, who noted she’s not speaking on behalf of that institution, said she has a grandchild who is transgender.

“It’s a little hard to accept,” she admitted, but added that she’s very supportive of their transition because she knows her grandchild is “in their happy place.”

The Bay Area’s trenchless technology leader

(Lynley Kerr Hogan, who often makes unprompted comments against the trans community at Council, told the Los Gatan said she agrees some who might’ve liked to attend didn’t know about the meeting. She only heard about it the day of—but made a conscious decision not to go. “I’ve spoken my truth, and I know God would never want this,” she said.)

Terry Hernandez, the president of Pride Social South County, said the rainbow flag represents inclusivity.

“This is not a political statement to raise the Pride Flag,” she said. “You’re showing that they’re also part of the community.”

NIKO TSAKIRIS AIMS FOR BREAKOUT SEASON WITH EARTHQUAKES

Saratoga native recently signed a new contract with the club

Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor

At just 20 years old, Saratoga native Niko Tsakiris continues to make his mark with the San Jose Earthquakes, pairing composure and vision well beyond his years with a growing physical presence on the pitch. His developing strength has added a new dimension to his game, allowing him to possess the ball more effectively, win 1v1 situations and be more confident in the flow of play—further cementing his status as one of the Bay Area’s most promising pro athletes.

Tsakiris and the Quakes started the 2026 season with a bang, rolling to a 3-0 win over Sporting Kansas City on Feb. 21 at PayPal Park. Tsakiris had the secondary assist on the team’s second goal in first-half stoppage time, putting San Jose in a commanding position.

Two days before the season-opener, Tsakiris talked with the assembled media on a variety of topics, including the Quakes recently signing him to a new contract through the 2028-2029 season, with an option for 2029-2030.

“I felt it was the best next step for me in my career,” he said. “This club has given me so much, and now I finally have the opportunity to give back to the club. It’s been an incredible journey this far. I’m continuing to grow as a person and as a player, and this club has obviously provided me an opportunity to do so.”

Tsakiris didn’t downplay the significance of what a win, and the full three points, would mean for the team.

“Of course it’s massive,” Tsakiris said. “Every match is important, but the first game is at home and everyone wants to win. It’s an exciting young team with a lot of energy and a lot of hunger, and we just want to continue to show the fans and prove to ourselves we’re good enough.”

Incredibly, Tsakiris is already in his fifth season with the Quakes first team, having signed a Homegrown Player contract when he was 16. He continued to progress with each succeeding season, starting 19 games in 2024.

A sizable portion of Tsakiris’ 2025 season was plagued by injuries, though he did score a goal in the team’s regular-sea-

SPORTS

ON POINT Earthquakes midfielder Niko Tsakiris plays the ball forward in their seasonopening, 3-0 win against Sporting Kansas City.

son finale while also helping the U.S. U20 team reach the World Cup quarterfinals.

Tsakiris’ physicality has caught up with his skill set, and that growth is a big reason why all signs point to the 5-foot-10, 154-pounder having his best season yet.

His teammates and coaches are expecting big things, too.

Quakes defender Daniel Munie, who scored the team’s final goal against Kansas City, was asked about Tsakiris’ onfield play after the game.

“It’s great,” Munie said via Quakes media relations. “We have a lot of confidence in him, and we know what he can do, what he’s capable of. He maybe didn’t get as many minutes as he wanted last year, but maybe he has something to prove. I feel like he’s doing a great job, and I feel like the whole team has a lot of confidence in him. We’re looking forward to seeing what he can do, because he can do so much for us.”

San Jose head coach Bruce Arena also expressed excitement on Tsakiris’ prospects for this season and beyond.

“Niko is a young player with a lot of promise,” he said. “We think he can be a

CHANNELING ROBERT LOUIS STEVENSON FOR THE LOS GATOS BLOOD DRIVE

Jeffrey P. Blum , Contributor

In Los Gatos, history and community often intertwine. This March, that connection takes on a life-saving dimension. On March 21, the Rotary Club of Los Gatos is partnering with the Stanford Blood Center to host a community blood drive at St. Luke’s Church downtown. From 8:30am until 1pm, residents can donate a single pint of blood that can save up to three lives.

To understand the weight of this gift, one need only look back at the brilliant, yet fragile, life of the author Robert Louis Stevenson.

A life defying the depths

Stevenson, the master storyteller behind Treasure Island and Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, lived a life that was a constant tug-of-war between a soaring imagination and a failing body. He suffered from a chronic, rare condition, often attributed to a form of tuberculosis or hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia, that caused him to suffer frequent and violent pulmonary hemorrhages.

very good player in this league. He’s going to have those opportunities to continue to play and develop and hopefully he does well.”

Arena’s coaching acumen and style seemingly has meshed well with Tsakiris’ talents.

“He’s giving me a lot of confidence to express myself and my play,” Tsakiris said. “What comes with that is me being confident with myself and him giving me that ability to create moments for the team. Hopefully, that continues.”

One game doesn’t make a season, but a key stat from the season-opener should make those involved around the club optimistic—and that’s an understatement, According to RotoWire, Tsakiris produced 22 crosses against Kansas City—just one shy of his entire 2025 season output.

Just as important, six of Tsakiris’ 22 crosses were considered accurate, surpassing last year’s total.

“I’m feeling great,” Tsakiris said. “Obviously, last year was tough to get minutes. But this year—just growing up and maturing into my body, just the person that I am now, how I play—I think a lot of this is coming together. I’m feeling strong.”

He lived much of his life in a state of acute anemia, losing large amounts of blood that left him bedridden for weeks. Yet Stevenson possessed an inextinguishable thirst for adventure. Despite his physical frailty, he sought the restorative air of Davos, the bohemian streets of Paris, and the wilds of California. Eventually, he settled in Samoa, where he was known as Tusitala (“Teller of Tales”).

Stevenson died at the young age of 44. It is a lingering “what if” of literary history: Imagine the volumes he might have written and the adventures he might have endured, had he lived in an era of modern transfusion medicine. In his day, the loss of blood was a depletion of the soul. Today, that depletion is avoidable. We have the facilities, the technology, and the community spirit to ensure that no “Tusitala” has their story cut short by a lack of blood.

Guerilla marketing: A

Stevenson-inspired

quest

To honor Stevenson’s spirit of adventure and his desperate need for the resource we are gathering, I am embarking on a unique marketing campaign to ensure every appointment slot at St. Luke’s is filled. If Stevenson could travel the world with failing lungs and thinning blood, the least I can do is bring a bit of his theatrical flair to the streets of Los Gatos.

Here is how I plan to channel The Great Adventurer to get our community to sign up:

The Sandwich Board Wanderer: Taking a cue from the pedestrian travels of Stevenson’s Travels with a Donkey, I will walk the sidewalks of downtown Los Gatos wearing a sandwich board. Look for me near the Town Plaza, where I’ll be handing out information and sharing the startling fact that one pint saves three lives.

The Lighthouse Beacon: Stevenson’s father, Thomas, was the foremost lighthouse engineer of his era. To honor this lineage, I will be setting up a miniature lighthouse in high-traffic areas. Next to this beacon, I’ll post a sign advertising the blood drive. Just as a lighthouse guides sailors away from the rocks, this blood drive serves as a beacon of hope for patients in local hospitals.

The Vasona Voyage: Stevenson was a lover of the water. In his honor, I’ll be taking to the waters of Vasona Lake in a canoe. Equipped with a megaphone, I’ll be broadcasting the details of the March 21 drive to those on the shore. It might be unconventional, but saving lives requires making a bit of a splash.

Why your participation matters

The Stanford Blood Center relies on local drives to maintain a stable supply for trauma victims, surgery patients, and those battling chronic illnesses. To show our appreciation for your time and your “liquid gold,” each donor will receive a $20 gift card, redeemable at a variety of popular locations.

The process is quick, the impact is eternal, and the setting at St. Luke’s is convenient.

Robert Louis Stevenson once wrote, “To be what we are, and to become what we are capable of becoming, is the only end of life.” By donating on March 21st, you are giving someone else the time they need to become what they can become. You are providing the “extra chapters” that Stevenson was never granted.

Details: Saturday, March 21, 8:30am1pm, St. Luke’s Church, Los Gatos, donors get a $20 gift card. sbcdonor.org/donor/ schedules/drive_schedule/16034

Ad

Let us help you with your next rebranding, product launch, media campaign, digital initiative, website redesign or image refresh.
identity + strategy + design
Giving blood

Town of Los Gatos

NOTICE AND SUMMARY OF AN ORDINANCE TITLED:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS AMENDING THE ZONING CODE EFFECTING A ZONE CHANGE FROM HR-2½:PD (HILLSIDE RESIDENTIAL, TWO AND ONE-HALF TO 10 ACRES FOR EACH DWELLING UNIT, PLANNED DEVELOPMENT) TO HR-1 (HILLSIDE RESIDENTIAL, ONE TO FIVE ACRES FOR EACH DWELLING UNIT) FOR A PORTION OF PROPERTY LOCATED AT 16084 GREENRIDGE TERRACE.

Notice is hereby given that at its meeting of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos introduced the Ordinances titled above. The adoption of these Ordinances is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m., in person and via Teleconference.

The following is a summary of the Ordinances:

An Ordinance of the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos amending the Zoning Code effecting a zone change from HR-2½:PD (Hillside Residential, two and one-half to 10 acres for each dwelling unit, Planned Development) to HR-1 (Hillside Residential, one to five acres for each dwelling unit) for a portion of property located at 16084 Greenridge Terrace. This Ordinance would change the zoning of a portion of land zoned HR-2½:PD being added to 16084 Greenridge Terrace as a result of a lot line adjustment to HR-1.

Please note that the above is a summary of the Ordinances. To obtain a full understanding of the Ordinances they should be read in their entirety. A copy of the full text of the Ordinances is available in the Town Clerk’s office at Los Gatos Town Hall, 110 E. Main Street, Los Gatos, CA 95030.

Wendy Wood Los Gatos Town Clerk

Published: 2/25/2026 (Pub LGN 2/25)

Town of Los Gatos

NOTICE AND SUMMARY OF AN ORDINANCE TITLED: AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS REPEALING AND REPLACING PLANNED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE 2281 ESTABLISHING DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS AND ALLOWABLE USES FOR LOTS WITHIN THE PLANNED DEVELOPMENT OVERLAY ZONE FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 16100 GREENRIDGE TERRACE (APN: 527-12-002).

Notice is hereby given that at its meeting of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos introduced the Ordinance titled above. The adoption of this Ordinance is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m., in person and via Teleconference.

The following is a summary of the Ordinance:

An Ordinance of the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos repealing and replacing Planned Development Ordinance 2281 establishing development standards and allowable uses for lots within the Planned Development Overlay zone for property located at 16100 Greenridge Terrace (APN: 527-12-002). This Ordinance would allow for two lot line adjustments between three properties, two of which are located within the subject Planned Development. The Ordinance would also allow for a zone change on a portion land being added to 16084 Greenridge Terrace through a lot line adjustment.

PUBLIC NOTICES

Please note that the above is a summary of the Ordinance. To obtain a full understanding of the Ordinance it should be read in its entirety. A copy of the full text of the Ordinance is available in the Town Clerk’s office at Los Gatos Town Hall, 110 E. Main Street, Los Gatos, CA 95030.

Wendy Wood Los Gatos Town Clerk

Published: 2/25/2026

(Pub LGN 2/25)

Name Change

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME. Case No. 26CV484975. Notice of Petition of JOHN AND GINA FIEDLER. Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara. To all interested persons: Petitioner: JOHN AND GINA FIEDLER filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: a. AUDREY ANN FIEDLER to Proposed name: FINN FELIX FIEDLER. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of Hearing: Date: April 28, 2026, Time: 8:45 AM, Room: Probate . The address of the court is: 191 North First Street, San Jose, CA 95113, Downtown Superior Court. A copy of this Order To Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Los Gatan, 107 Dakota Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. Date: January 26, 2026. /s/ Charles F. Adams /s/, Judge of the Superior Court. Filed January 26, 2026 by /s/ TB T. Belloncle /s/, Deputy Clerk. (Pub LGN: 02/04, 02/11, 02/18, 02/25/2026)

Fictitious Business Name Statements

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #722171

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Halthium, 10751 Wunderlich Drive, Cupertino, CA, 95014, Abitha Padmanabhan. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 11/01/2025. /s/ Abitha Padmanabhan. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 12/18/2025. (pub Metro 01/28, 02/04, 02/11, 02/18/2026)

File Number: FBN723070. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. EASTERLY SANTA CLARA 3927 Rivermark Plaza, Santa Clara, CA 95054. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, CISHI RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT CORPORATION, 3927 Rivermark Plaza, Santa Clara, CA 95054. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 11/01/2017 and 01/26/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Fraulein Dominguez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. CISHI RESTAURANT MANAGEMENT, Article/Reg # 4021316, Above Entity was Formed in the State of CA. /s/ Xing Wang /s/ Owner. (Pub LGN: 02/04, 02/11, 02/18, 02/25/2026)

File Number: FBN722992 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. PLU2O DISPENSARY, 170 Barack Obama Blvd, San Jose, CA 95110. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, GREEN KITE INC, 1415 Oakland Blvd Suite 215, Walnut Creek, CA 94596. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Not Applicable and 01/22/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. Green Kite INC, Article/Reg # C6343308, Above Entity was Formed in the State of CA. /s/ Mohammad Mahmoud /s/ Chief Financial Officer. (Pub LGN: 02/04, 02/11, 02/18, 02/25/2026)

File Number: FBN722917. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. G-FORCE MARKETING , 142 Lottie Lane, Campbell, CA 95008. This business is conducted by: An Individual, GINA MARIE JACKMAN, 142 Lottie Lane, Campbell, CA 95008. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/07/2026 and 01/21/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Fraulein Dominguez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Gina Jackman /s/. (Pub LGN: 02/04, 02/11, 02/18, 02/25/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #722523

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Cherry Zone Four Seasons Fruit, 6265 Pacheo Pass Hwy, Gilroy, CA, 95020, Melanie Tellez Sanchez. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 10/20/2025. /s/Melanie Tellez Sanchez. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/05/2026. (pub LG 02/04, 02/11, 02/18, 02/25/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #723027

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. Skin Health Life, 2 The Skin Health Life, 3. SHL, 905 Almarida Drive, Campbell, CA, 95008, Deborah Lee Kiamanesh. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/01/2026. /s/Deborah Lee Kiamanesh. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/23/2026. (pub LG 02/11, 02/18, 02/25, 03/04/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #723035

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Shops On Wheels, 1040 Church Ave., Gilroy, CA, 95020, Felix Marcelo Dominguez. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 12/01/2003. /s/ Felix Marcelo Dominguez. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/23/2026. (pub LG 02/11, 02/18, 02/25, 03/04/2026)

File Number: FBN722796. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. Deveaux Counseling Services , 200 Winchester Circle D305, Los Gatos, CA 95032. This business is conducted by: An Individual, Stephanie Monique Deveaux, 200 Winchester Circle D305, Los Gatos, CA 95032. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Not Applicable and 01/15/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Stephanie M. Deveaux /s/. (Pub LGN: 02/11, 02/18, 02/25, 03/04/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #723248

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Lee Laundromat, 2715 Union Ave., San Jose, CA, 95124, 237 Investments LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/01/2026. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Thang Le. CEO. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/29/2026. (pub LG 02/11, 02/18, 02/25, 03/04/2026)

File Number: FBN722810. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. Mountain School , 19601 Black Road, Los Gatos, CA 95033. This business is conducted by: An UNINCORPORATED ASSOCIATION OTHER THAN A PARTNERSHIP, Amanda Demers - Administrative Director, 22106 Miller Ridge Road, Los Gatos, CA 95033 and Andrea Spencer - Board Chair, 226 Edenlen Ave Apt 17, Los Gatos, CA 95030. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/01/1990 and 01/16/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Elaine Fader /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Amanda Demers /s/. (Pub LGN: 02/11, 02/18, 02/25, 03/04/2026)

File Num ber: FBN722872 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. MANDALA MORTGAGE, 2. MANDALA MORTGAGES, 3. MANDALA PROPERTIES, 4. MANDALA MORTGAGE AND PROPERTIES, 5. MANDALA PROPERTIES AND MORTGAGE , 455 Los Gatos Blvd., Suite 100, Los Gatos, CA 95032. This business is conducted by: An Individual, JOHN ROBERT EICHINGER, P.O. Box 878, Los Gatos, CA 95031. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 05/01/2015 and 01/20/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ John Eichinger /s/. (Pub LGN: 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

File Number: FBN723583. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. LATERAL WORKS 3561 Homestead Road, #432, Santa Clara, CA 95051. This business is conducted by: A General Partnership, JOHN MARK EDMONDS, 3561 Homestead Road, #432, Santa Clara, CA 95051 and NEAL BURGESS MITCHELL, 3561 Homestead Road, #432, Santa Clara, CA 95051. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/01/2026 and 02/06/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Elaine Fader /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ John Mark Edmonds /s/. (Pub LGN: 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

legals@losgatan.com

File Number: FBN722445. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. MIKE’S CUSTOM HOT RODS, 180 E Sunnyoaks Building 1, Campbell, CA 95008. This business is conducted by: A Married Couple, MICHAEL SOUSA, 180 E Sunnyoaks Building 1, Campbell, CA 95008 and JODEE SOUSA, 180 E Sunnyoaks Building 1, Campbell, CA 95008. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 09/24/2018 and 12/30/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Elaine Fader /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Jodee Sousa /s/. (Pub LGN: 02/11, 02/18, 02/25, 03/04/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #723224

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Carrie’s Mobile Grooming, 4868 Kingdale Dr., San Jose, CA, 95124, Carrie Wozadlo. This business is being conducted by n Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 1/28/2026. /s/ Carrie Wozadlo. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/28/2026. (pub LG 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #723582

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Allume Interiors, 1053 Coleman Rd #1204, San Jose, CA, 95123, Allume Interiors LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Victoria Gianella. Owner. #B20260048221. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/06/2026. (pub LG 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #722761

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Infusion For Health, 2880 Lakeside Drive #205, Santa Clara, CA, 95054, Infusion4health, Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Dan Mccarty. CEO. #3646173. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/14/2026. (pub LG 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

File Number: FBN723610. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. Prime Life Dental Office of Aman Bhullar, DMD, INC., 1374 E Hamilton Ave, Campbell, CA 95008. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, Aman Bhullar, DMD, INC., 1374 E Hamilton Ave, Campbell, CA 95008. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Not Applicable and 02/06/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. Aman Bhullar, DMD, INC., Article/Reg # 4106497, Above Entity was Formed in the State of California. /s/ Aman Bhullar /s/ President. (Pub LGN: 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #723747 The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Town & Country Office Cleaning, 6146 Camino Verde Drive STE N-1, San Jose, CA, 95119, Morton & Stevenson Associates Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 09/25/1987. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Dayna Morton. Secretary. #1418776 This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/11/2026. (pub LG 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

File Number: FBN723754. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. ELIA , 276 E Campbell Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008. This business is conducted by: A Limited Liability Company, ELIA HOSPITALITY LLC, 276 E Campbell Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 10/03/2025 and 02/11/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. ELIA HOSPITALITY LLC, Article/Reg # B20250326775, Above Entity was Formed in the State of CA. /s/ Bekir Akkus /s/ Owner. (Pub LGN: 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

File Number: FBN723767. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. CHARLESTON PROPERTIES 400 Lambert Ave., Palo Alto, CA 94306. This business is conducted by: A General Partnership, BOYD C. SMITH, 301 Coleridge Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94301 and ARRILLAGA FOUNDATION, 2450 Watson Court, Palo Alto, CA 94303. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 02/01/1981 and 02/12/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Elaine Fader /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Boyd C. Smith /s/. (Pub LGN: 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #723562

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Wendy Talk Therapy, Wendy Lee Gorelick. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Wendy Lee Gorelick. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/29/2026. (pub LG 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

File Number: FBN722819. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. ECCENTRIC STYLIST, 979 La Mesa Terrace Unit B, Sunnyvale, CA 94086. This business is conducted by: An Individual, AARUSHI BANERJEE, 979 La Mesa Terrace Unit B, Sunnyvale, CA 94086. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 01/15/2026 and 01/16/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Aarushi Banerjee /s/. (Pub LGN: 02/18, 02/25, 03/04, 03/11/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #723065

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Majestic Thai Spa, 1123 Luchessi Dr., San Jose, CA, 95118, Amare Spa Group Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/20/2026. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/ Yosef Rosha. CEO. #B20260020353. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 01/26/2026. (pub LG 02/25, 03/04, 03/11, 03/18/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #723940

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. Blossom Hill Crafts, 2. Blossom Hill Crafts Pottery, 3. Blossom Hill Ceramics, 4. Blossom Hill Games, 15900 Blossom Hill Road, Los Gatos, CA, 95032, ABHCD4ME, LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 07/10/2020. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/David Propach. #202016710448. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/18/2026. (pub LG 02/25, 03/04, 03/11, 03/18/2026)

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #723995

The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: South Bay Ice Distribution, 301 N 13 St., San Jose, 95112, Julio Cesar Arciga. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 09/03/2025. /s/Julio Cesar Arciga. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 02/20/2026. (pub LG 02/25, 03/04, 03/11, 03/18/2026)

File Number: FBN724007. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. ENDLESS SOMMER NURSING 435 Irving Ave, San Jose, CA 95128. This business is conducted by: An Individual, JESSICA SOMMER, 435 Irving Ave, San Jose, CA 95128. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Not Applicable and 02/20/2026 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Mike Louie /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Jessica Sommer /s/. (Pub LGN: 02/25, 03/04, 03/11, 03/18/2026)

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME #723922

The following person(s) / registrant(s) has / have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s): Qua Bridal, LLC, 501 Gibson Dr., Apt 1323, Roseville, CA, 95678. Filed in the Santa Clara County on 02/27/2023. under file No. 693075. This business was conducted by: A Limited Liability Company. Filed on 02/18/2026. /s/Tamie Qua, CEO. (pub dates: 02/25, 03/04, 03/11, 03/18/2026)

STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME #723923

The following person(s) / registrant(s) has / have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s): Trevin Tuxedos, LLC, 501 Gibson Dr., Apt 1323, Roseville, CA, 95678. Filed in the Santa Clara County on 02/27/2023. under file No. 693076. This business was conducted by: A Limited Liability Company. Filed on 02/18/2026. /s/Tamie Qua, CEO. (pub dates: 02/25, 03/04, 03/11, 03/18/2026)

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Los Gatan February 25, 2026 by Weeklys - Issuu