Letters

Abkin listens before he acts

Mike Abkin's town council candidacy offers Los Gatos residents an opportunity to acquire some traits not often found among local politicians. As residents of Rinconada Hills for the last six years, we have often attended our homeowner association board meetings and admired Mike's governance capabilities.

Mike starts off by listening carefully before taking a position. His deliberations show that he gives due consideration to a variety of factors bearing upon an issue. His questions are penetrating. But, what really distinguishes Mike from many well intentioned public servants is his talent for dispute resolution. He is able to sense the potential for common ground and draw competing factions to equitable resolutions.

Such talent is a vital commodity for our town council. Given Mike's extensive background of service to Los Gatos in a variety of positions including the planning commission, we sincerely hope residents will seize the opportunity to continue exploiting Mike's unique talent to our mutual benefit.

Bob & Marilyn Cross
Los Gatos

Glickman brings a different view to council race

As a parent and active volunteer in the Los Gatos Union School District, I have had many opportunities to work with Steve Glickman. Because of these experiences, I would encourage people to vote for him for Los Gatos Town Council. He brings intelligence, genuine interest and a thorough knowledge to any project or committee on which he works. Best of all, he remains calm and listens to all parties when a discussion becomes heated and emotional.

Steve Glickman believes in the value of this town and its need to serve all people. His interest in and concern for families, youth and students would broaden the perspective of the town council. This is a group that needs a voice and his is a voice of reason and thought as to what is best for all.

Steve is one of the hardest working people I know. He is always available to participate in any event or program that concerns him as a trustee of the LGUSD. He can be counted on to support the endeavors of the school district and champion its causes, and I believe he would do the same for the town of Los Gatos. Steve would be a valuable addition to the town council.

Tina Orsi-Hartigan
Los Gatos

Garner, Baxter will be good for Monte Sereno

I am a homeowner in Monte Sereno, and I am extremely frustrated with obtaining building permits from the current Monte Sereno City Council. We have spent over a year making sure that our house design complied with every single building code and zoning regulation of the city, including compliance with the architectural guidelines and neighborhood character. Since July 5, 2000, we have bent over backwards trying to do everything reasonable they asked of us. Yet the currently seated city council will not approve our plans for the home.

One of the council members seems to feel that perhaps the existing old home in disrepair is just fine for our needs. Two other council members are trying to force a much smaller house of unacceptable design down our throat. Again, this in spite of scrupulously following every rule in their own General Plan. I am shocked that such tyranny can exist in our country, and I hope to see our city council become one that works for, rather than against, the people of Monte Sereno.

Not only would I be voting for Erin Garner and Dave Baxter this election but I will encourage all our friends to do so as well. I am confident that they will work for the good of the citizens.

Bipin Thakkar
Monte Sereno

Their planning experience will make difference

There are two seats open for Los Gatos Town Council and four candidates for unselfish record of public service. However, after careful consideration, I feel that Sandy Decker and Mike Abkin have an edge as candidates and advantages for you as citizens.

Rather than only dealing with one issue or neighborhood, they have experience dealing with many different issues all over town. They know town ordinances well and were instrumental in drawing and reviewing the new General Plan, which has a lot more teeth in it for preserving what we love about Los Gatos than the old plan did. They have dealt with the powerful pressures for overdevelopment in this town and have stalwartly said no to many projects, which did not fit or benefit the town as a whole.

In addition, as a planning commissioner and member of many important town committees, Sandy Decker has demonstrated an exceptional dedication and degree of preparation for framing policy or voting on issues. She reads everything, visits every site, and talks to a lot of concerned people. Her attendance record is excellent, and she has the energy, even at crowded, late, and emotionally clouded meetings, to keep her brain in gear when others have stalled or run out of gas. She is realistic yet ready to think outside of the box and look for pragmatic solutions, as she has helped to achieve in finding new parking spaces in town.

Consider voting for the broad view, experience withstanding pressures, and long-term vision.

Kathy Morgan
Los Gatos

Former school board member picks Glickman

I am writing to endorse the candidacy of my friend and former colleague Steve Glickman, with whom I served on the LGUSD Board of Trustees.

The threshold question is what traits do we seek in a member of the town council. In my view, there are four key criteria: intelligence, a clear vision for our community, a willingness to hear all sides of an issue and an ability to work with others and accomplish goals.

Steve meets each of these criteria.

Steve is not only one of the smartest people I know, but also one of the hardest working. He was consistently the best prepared board member on issues coming before the LGUSD board.

Steve has put forth a clear vision for Los Gatos. He wants a greater commitment to and emphasis on families and constructive activities for all ages, particularly teenagers.

He has demonstrated a willingness to listen to all points of view before reaching a decision. His walking the neighborhoods during his campaign, seeking out the views and concerns of all residents, underscores this willingness.

Steve has learned how to work collaboratively with others during his tenure on the LGUSD Board. During this time, the district has undergone many difficult changes and he has risen to the challenge.

Voters should also know that Steve has spent countless hours over the last eight years as a volunteer computer teacher at Fisher Middle School, because he believes that these skills are essential for our children to successfully compete in an increasingly technological world.

For these reasons, I believe Steve Glickman will be an outstanding council person and encourage you to join me in voting for him.

Bruce Berwald
Former Trustee
LGUSD Board of Trustees

 

A mother votes her conscience

Sometimes I wonder if people still care about honesty, integrity and character in politicians anymore. It seems that some politicians have very little, if any of these traits. I am speaking in particular about Sue Jackson, who is running for state Assembly in the 24th District. To read her campaign flyers, one would think she must have all of these qualities, plus a lot of political experience. However, in reality, how much experience can one gain in the political arena by being a council member and mayor of a 3,500 population community, which is called a "city," with no business district?

All of the state Assembly candidates met with the San Jose Chamber of Commerce and were asked to promise that they would not send out any negative campaign material. Sue Jackson broke that promise. Regarding honesty and integrity, what kind of person would try to destroy the character of a man with whom she was good friends for 10 years? Sue Jackson sent out two hit pieces Friday and Saturday before the Tuesday primary election, leaving no time to respond. Both hit pieces included deliberate lies and a few twisted half truths about Steve Blanton, my son. These dirty hit pieces have made me extremely upset, not only because Steve is my son, but because none of these ridiculous claims is true.

For example, one claim was that Steve would try to raise property taxes because he works for a real estate board. Steve lost his term to be mayor in 1996 because he was the only council member who opposed Measure C, the utility-tax increase. Steve was taught from an early age that telling the truth is important and has grown up to be an upstanding citizen.

Loyalty to a political party is the reason a lot of people vote for a candidate, even if they don't approve of their actions. I believe this is the reason some people are supporting Sue Jackson, as I have been told that she shouldn't have sent those hit pieces, but they have to be loyal to the party. My question is: If Sue Jackson would do such a dirty trick to win the primary, what would she do to keep her seat if she wins the election?

I am a registered Republican, but I vote for the candidate whom I respect and believe in, regardless of party. That is why I'm voting for Rebecca Cohn. I believe she is honest, trustworthy, and a creative thinker who can help solve the problems in the 24th State Assembly District.

Louise Blanton
Los Gatos

Vote for Baxter and Hawkes in Monte Sereno

Like other Monte Sereno residents I enjoyed the two issues of the Monte Sereno Monthly. Having been referred to as a senior member of the community in a letter printed in issue No. 2, I feel qualified to make some comments on the upcoming Monte Sereno election.

Fred Hawkes was chosen unanimously by the council from among seven candidates when an incumbent resigned mid term. A longtime resident, Fred studies carefully each matter that comes to the council and is also open to suggestions. Also, it is easy to see that he is enjoying his work on the council. It is in the city's best interests to return Fred for a full term.

David Baxter is well-informed on city affairs, has attended many council meetings, and has a good grasp of the duties and responsibilities of a council member. He has the endorsement of all five council members, but he will think for himself.

These two candidates have endorsed each other. I hope Monte Sereno residents will seriously consider the qualifications of Fred Hawkes and David Baxter when voting Nov. 7.

Dorothea F. Bamford
Monte Sereno

Garner gets this Monte Sereno vote

I have lived in Monte Sereno since 1988 and I am happy to see a new face step forward and run for city council. We have recently been receiving a newsletter from one of our candidates Erin Garner, and he seems to be the best qualified person to serve Monte Sereno.

We enjoy the newsletter and appreciate knowing more about what is going on around our city. I have tried to contribute to our community myself recently when Monte Sereno was looking for an appointee for city council earlier this year, I volunteered.

I thought my 20 years of experience as mayor and councilman in Santa Clara would be valuable to Monte Sereno. However, the system used by the existing council to appoint a council member was, in my opinion, somewhat ridiculous.

It was obvious that a majority of the council members knew who they were going to appoint before even considering the qualifications of the candidates. I'm looking forward to electing Erin Garner and putting a new voice on our council.

Frank J. Barcells
Monte Sereno

Sandy Decker understands needs of people

Sandy Decker is uniquely qualified to serve as a member of the town council in Los Gatos. Let me tell you about the Sandy I know. Her first love was teaching, but she had to give it up when she became a single parent. Economics dictated a career change into the corporate world. As a consequence, she faced the same problems and fears that many single parents must overcome: she can identify with their community needs. Sandy understands the need for community resources for our children and young adults.

I've gone with Sandy many times to check on Live Oak-Day Care, the senior's day care center. This wonderful program provides stimulation, socialization and recreation for our seniors. It also enhances and extends the ability of the caregiver to keep their loved one at home.

Sandy's commitment to the Live Oak Adult Day Care is profound. She's been a member of their advisory board and the regular board. She was the driving force in the organization's expansion from one facility to five. Sandy has a keen sense of the needs of our seniors and empathy for the caregivers. She acts on her beliefs through service and financial support.

I've accompanied Sandy through poison oak and in ankle deep mud to look at a new construction project proposal. As a six-year member of the planning commission and past chair, she has in-depth knowledge of every area of our town. She is aware of the unique possibilities and the inherent hazards each area presents. Thanks to her construction experience, she can identify with the frustrations that the homeowners and contractors experience with our current planning process. Sandy continues to work with our council members to create a more proactive, streamlined planning process.

Sandy is the kind of good friend that will sit with you in the doctor's office. Waiting for the good or bad news about breast cancer. She will cry and celebrate the wonderful news you're okay this time.

Please remember this on Nov. 7 when you cast your vote for town council.

Youwanda Dreger
Los Gatos

Sandy Decker is the logical choice

Sandy Decker is the logical choice to best serve Los Gatos on the council.

After reading all of the candidates' position statements and watching the KCAT forum, I've concluded that Sandy is the most qualified person to serve our needs.

Sandy addressed the issues important to me, and I think to the majority of my fellow residents of the town--quality of life and the environment, protection of the town's character, historic preservation, sensitive and appropriate development, housing, traffic and parking.

Sandy demonstrated the awareness, sincerity and sensitivity to all of our concerns. She has the skills necessary to coalesce opposing viewpoints that can lead to productive solutions to issues confronting our town. Sandy always puts forth a "town-first" attitude focused on what are above all community benefits. At issue is the well being of our town.

Gary Swanson
Los Gatos

Decker stands out among candidates

Los Gatos residents are fortunate to have candidates for its town council who will bring intelligence to town deliberations. It takes more, however to be an effective council member.

One candidate, Sandy Decker offers more. She brings solid experience in finding creative and constructive solutions that address economic and environmental concerns. She has dealt with difficult planning issues and has made tough decisions over the past several years as a member of the planning commission.

In that position she learned the complexities and regulatory constraints under which the town functions. She appreciates fully the hard choices facing our community in its efforts to control development. She is the most experienced candidate for town council.

We urge all residents of Los Gatos to examine carefully the issues facing the town and the positions of the candidates. In our opinion, this review will lead to the conclusion that Sandy Decker deserves your vote.

Ann and Don Gralnek
Los Gatos

Senior endorses Fred Hawkes

As a senior citizen myself, I think Fred Hawkes is the most experienced and best qualified candidate to serve on the Monte Sereno City Council.

He has lived in Monte Sereno since 1973, served on Monte Sereno's Heritage Committee and attended many city council meetings before he became a current member last April.

I have lived in beautiful Monte Sereno over 30 years.

Pat O'Hare
Monte Sereno

Fisher leadership made honest mistake on dance

A recent Fisher Middle School dance was accidentally scheduled on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. The "Night At the Roxbury" dance was held on Friday, Sept. 29, from 7 to 10 p.m. in the Fisher cafeteria. The Fisher Leadership class organized the dance.

We received angry letters from parents who thought we didn't care about the Jewish holiday. We apologize to students who were unable to attend because of the holiday. Unfortunately, the conflict was not discovered until one week before, and by then it was too late to change.

"Our mistake was completely unintentional," said Christina Pasetta, "and it won't happen again."

The entire Leadership class agrees, "We felt badly, and for future events, we will try even harder to avoid such mistakes." The Jewish Community Center was contacted. We asked for and received a calendar of religious holidays to help guide us when scheduling future events.

Keven Bakken, Ian Douglas, Bethany Hill and others
Fisher Middle School Leadership Class

Peckler race a success again

The fourth Annual Peckler Memorial Run and Relay was a wonderful community event and we wish to thank the businesses and individuals who contributed to its success. We are grateful to the sponsors for underwriting the event, donors who provided food and prizes, the volunteers who made it work and, most especially the runners and walkers who brought purpose and fun to the run.

At the conclusion of this year's race, butterflies donated by Magical Beginnings were released in remembrance of Jim, Jill and Jeff Peckler. It was an emotional symbol of the cause behind the run--healthy choices for young people. The run benefits A Place for Teens, Community Against Substance Abuse and the Teen and Family Counseling Center.

Teachers, students and clubs at Los Gatos High School and students and Club Live members at Fisher Middle School were eager participants and volunteers. We appreciated the work of our committee members who were deeply committed to the event.

Joanne Rodgers, Pam
Dunnett, Reiko Iwanaga
Co-chairpersons

Community Foundation thanks community

On behalf of the Los Gatos Community Foundation Board, I would like to extend a sincere appreciation to all those who helped support this year's garden party fundraiser.

First, a big thank you to Wells Fargo Bank, the event major sponsor, who also had a table of 10 and expressed support for the Foundation's projects.

Thank you to the event donors, Community Hospital of Los Gatos, Good Samaritan Hospital, and Store'it of Los Gatos, who helped with their monitory gifts, as well.

A big thank you to Double D's of Los Gatos, the event caterer--we continue to get compliments on how great the food was!

Thanks to McHugh Lincoln Mercury, the participating Los Gatos boutiques, all those who bought ads in the program, and from the attending community at large who supported the silent auction (our major source of income).

And, finally, a sincere thank you to the Multraps who generously opened their home and garden to our event!

Mary Tomasi-Dubois
Second V.P., public relations

Correction

A story about Habitat for Humanity in the Oct. 25 issue of the Los Gatos Weekly-Times incorrectly stated the amount the town council transferred from the redevelopment fund to the town's general fund to "buy" the Charles Street lot slated for development by Habitat for Humanity. The approved amount--based on the 1998 appraisal of the lot--was $260,000.

Police Report

Editorial: Glickman, Dubois ask the right questions

Local Home Sale Listings

Obituary

Picture from the Past

Nutritional habits play an important role in senior health

Sports Briefs

Los Gatos Wildcats run to Mount Sac win

Big win for Los Gatos frosh-soph

Cats take big step with win against Milpitas Trojans on Friday night

Dickerson wins national title