It’s November – the month when we ask each other that infamous question “For what are you most grateful?” Some of the most common answers include good health, loved ones, the California weather, a favorite sports team, a good grade, a new house or a job promotion. I think we often forget the simplest of things – and those things we take for granted.
I am grateful that we live in a democratic nation especially when you look around at what is happening in other parts of the world right now. I am grateful that young people in our country are engaged. The 2022 midterms had the second highest turnout of young voters in at least 30 years. In fact, Los Gatos just elected the youngest Council member ever and although a little green, his passion and his willingness to listen and his courage must be appreciated. Three cheers to Rob Moore. Congratulations also to incumbents Mary Badame and Rob Rennie as well. This crew along with sitting Council members Matthew Hudes and Maria Ristow are sure to make a brilliant team, one that will lead us through a few challenges facing our Town these next two years. I would be remiss not to mention the campaign efforts put forth by Rob Stump and Margaret Smith. While I am sure that losing a race is difficult, we applaud your commitment to Los Gatos and your continued commitment to making Los Gatos a better place.
I am particularly grateful that Measure J passed. I know no one likes to hear the word tax – but in this case it is taxation with representation. The majority of our businesses supported this small tax increase along with a slightly higher business license fee. They had not seen an increase in 31 years. They are doing their part and we all should be grateful to them for not pushing back. This revenue source will significantly help with the Town’s forecasted budget deficit.
We should also be grateful to groups like the Los Gatos Community Alliance, for keeping us on our toes and making us do our research about issues of importance. Admittedly we do not always agree, in fact, sometimes voices get loud and feelings are hurt. I am grateful that the people in this Town usually can pause to consider others most of the time when framing opposition.
Next week we celebrate that pause with the Untied Against Hate week national campaign. Here in our Town we have multiple activities and events aiming to teach us all a little something we did not know yesterday. Click here to see all the events and how you can get involved.
I am grateful for our small business owners and their tireless efforts to impress Los Gatans. Take this to heart people and shop local this holiday season! We hear that phrase over and over again and yet we hit that “place order now” button on our computer a little too often. Come on down for the Girl’s Night Out (December 1) and for the Holiday Parade. Check out the many new boutiques in town. Visit the other commercial districts – Los Gatos Birdwatcher in King’s Court; Deux Cranes in the Downing Shopping Center, Affordable Treasures and sip, savor, shop and stroll your way through December.
Lastly, I am grateful for the staff here in this office. Their work ethic, their comradery and their love for their hometown is remarkable. Thanks to the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Last month we had a pivotal Board Retreat and are strategically setting ourselves up for the next three to five years.
Happy November!
Sincerely,
Catherine Somers
Executive Director
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