There are reasons for the many events we enjoy here in Los Gatos and the many volunteers who spend hundreds of hours organizing them.
What is the “why” behind these?
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Of course, providing entertainment is a must. But the driving force are goals designed to benefit a target group or cause. This underlying motivation drives any event to a positive outcome. Let’s take a look at a few.
Los Gatos Music & Arts (LGMA) has produced Jazz on the Plazz for 23 years, offering free concerts funded by generous sponsors. Yet its true legacy is education: workshops and scholarships shaping future jazz leaders. San Jose high school student June McMahon embodies this mission. After performing with the San Jose High School Jazz All-Stars at Jazz on the Plazz, she participated in LGMA Brubeck Brothers Workshop, earned a spot at the prestigious Brubeck Jazz Summit and shared the stage Sept. 20 with the Brubeck Brothers Quartet at the LGMA annual gala. Her journey is one example of success. www.jazzontheplazz.com
Monday Morning Movies are back, also with a purpose. The event is sponsored by the Los Gatos Thrives Foundation, whose vision is to make Los Gatos an age-friendly community where everyone thrives. On Oct. 6, 9:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m., you can share a great classic movie, “The Sting,” honoring the great Robert Redford. A $10 ticket gets you coffee, pastry, the movie and good socializing at the CineLux Los Gatos Theatre. Tickets are available at the door or online at www.LosGatosThrives.org.
Some events are intended to recognize groups and foster ties. An example is coming up Oct. 16, at 11 a.m. at the Addison-Penzak JCC. The public is invited to join in thanking our Los Gatos-Monte Sereno police for their dedication and service at the annual recognition luncheon hosted by the Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Foundation. It’s a way for the public to recognize lifesaving actions, recovery of stolen property, efforts to assist the homeless and community service. Tickets are available at www.lgmspf.org.
The Butter Paddle is another group that funds local charities. Run entirely by more than 70 dedicated volunteers, all store proceeds benefit Pacific Clinics, a nonprofit providing behavioral and mental health services for at-risk children and families. Founded nearly 60 years ago, The Butter Paddle originally opened in Saratoga in 1967 as the county’s first kitchen store. The Butter Paddle relocated to Los Gatos in 2010, and you are invited to the celebration of their 15th anniversary in Los Gatos at their Holiday Open House on Saturday, Oct. 25, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. It’s a great chance to shop for their high-quality gifts and home accessories.
“The Butter Paddle helps us provide essential resources that change lives,” says Darren DeMonsi, senior fund development director at Pacific Clinics. “Every year, they volunteer more than 31,000 hours and donate thousands of essential items—from diapers to coats and toiletries—to families in need.” https://butterpaddle.com
Pets and their owners need help too, and that’s what the 2025 Halloween Kid and Pet PAWlooza is all about. It’s a fundraiser for the Street Dog Coalition, which provides free veterinary care to pets of people experiencing homelessness. Children their families and friends can trick-or-treat and participate in a “pawrade” for children and their pets in costume. The PAWlooza is set for Sunday, Oct 26, 2:30-5:30 at Los Gatos Town Plaza.
If you have business or social news about Los Gatos, let me know: [email protected].
