By Khalida Sarwari
A World War II pilot, an award-winning architect, a member of one of Saratoga’s pioneering families and a former Los Gatos Times Observer reporter will all be honored by the Saratoga Historical Foundation on Sept. 21.
The event, literally titled “Honoring Saratogans,” will be paying tribute to George Cooper, Warren Heid, Amy June Jorgensen and Jackie Welch for their contributions in the areas of community service, local history and service.
This is the Historical Foundation’s first such event, according to its president Annette Stransky.
“This dinner is one way we can recognize and celebrate the contributions made by individuals from all walks of life, across a range of areas, that improves the community in which we live,” Stransky said. “It is a great way to thank these people who through hard work and dedication have significantly contributed to the community.”
Cooper is renowned for his philanthropy in the Saratoga community by way of the Cooper-Garrod estate vineyards, but some might be surprised to learn that he was also a WWII and NASA pilot. He is now a vintner and active in community organizations including the Historical Foundation.
Heid has designed homes, schools and commercial buildings in Saratoga and has been involved in community service with the Saratoga Rotary and the Historical Foundation, among other organizations. He has also served on the Heritage Preservation Commission and Santa Clara Planning Commission.
Jorgensen comes from a family that has lived on Rawdon Dell ranch since the 19th century–1878 to be exact. She’s been involved in several local organizations including holding board positions at the Foothill Club and the Historical Foundation.
Former reporter Welch now is a member of the Foothill Club and on the board of the Saratoga Historical Foundation, as well as the Japanese Cultural Society. She is also on the steering committee for the Saratoga Community Garden.
The event takes place Sept. 21 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Saratoga Historical Park, 20450
Saratoga-Los Gatos Road, and includes a BBQ dinner and music. Tickets are $35 for foundation members and $40 for non-members and can be purchased by sending a check to “Honoring Saratogans/SHF” at P.O. Box 172, Saratoga, CA 95071.
For more information, call 408.867.9727 or email roberthimel@att.net.
