Passion in Music, the foundation established in the memory of Eric Quesada, is now online at www.passioninmusic.com. The foundation aims to create CDs from local, underground musicians and use the profits for scholarships for Los Gatos High School students who have musical talent but do not participate in mainstream musical organizations. Founded by Quesada's mother and his friends, Passion in Music accepts donations in cash as well as musical instruments.

Quesada, 18, died Thanksgiving weekend when a car he was riding in hit a pole on Hicks Road. The 16-year-old driver has since been charged with gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.


Elks drop building application

The Los Gatos Elks Club has withdrawn its application to build an office building at the corner of Newell Avenue and Winchester Boulevard. The Elks wanted to build a complex that would house medical offices on the empty lot that it owns across the street from its lodge. Neighbors, however, opposed the project and asked that the club construct homes instead.

The project had been in the town's planning process since 2000. The Elks formally withdrew the application on Dec. 3.


Red Cross has holiday safety tips

The American Red Cross wants residents to avoid holiday fires by properly maintaining Christmas trees. Residents should not leave dried-out trees in a garage or against the house, nor should they burn the trees in the fireplace.