'A Taste of Los Gatos' Fundraiser to Benefit Police Foundation

Tastes and pours from the 20 of the top restaurants and wineries in town and hands-on displays of the 's equipment and programs will be part of this year's A Taste of Los Gatos at 3 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 9 at , 18550 Black Rd.

The event's $100 tickets benefit the work of the , which supports the LGMSPD and the two towns it serves by providing funding for public safety tools and educational outreach programs, said Foundation Chairman Jonathan Knowles, a longtime Los Gatos resident and community advocate.

"By providing additional funding, we assist in maintaining the high quality of life and the low crime rate that residents, businesses and visitors of Los Gatos and Monte Sereno enjoy," Knowles said.

The event will also have a demonstration of the department's police dog, robot, undercover technology, SWAT team, a firing range, and other activities, Knowles said.

Anyone can join the foundation with a donation of $500 and receive two tickets to attend the social fundraising event and attend other public safety related activities in the upcoming year at no additional cost.

Knowles said the Foundation has organized a briefing for its members with Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen and its investigative unit, a tour of the LGMS Police Operations Building on Los Gatos Boulevard, special ride-alongs with Chief Scott Seaman and range day to learn about the various weapons used by local police officers.

"The Foundation exists to augment the police department's programs and technologies with things that would normally not be funded with town monies," Knowles explained.

Some of those programs include the the to help students learn more about public safety, among others.

"We fund educational programs that allow the officers to get training in technology and undercover work. We have a new robot used in situations when we don't know what to expect that's equipped with cameras. It makes our local police department a world recognized agency. The bottom line is that the Foundation is good for the residents and businesses in town," Knowles said.

To order tickets call 408 354-6840 or 810 841-3266, or purchase them at the door at Black Ridge Vineyards on Sunday.

You may also send your tax-deductible donation to the Foundation by snail-mailing your contribution c/o Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Foundation, P.O. Box 973, Los Gatos, CA 95031.

Tickets are limited and all proceeds from A Taste of Los Gatos directly support the LGMSPD.

LGMSPD Tax ID is #77-0495708. Those wishing to use Pay Pal must keep a copy of their receipt to substantiate their charitable deduction. Those who choose to pay by check will receive a letter from the foundation for donations of $250 or more as proof of charitable contribution, as canceled checks will not suffice.