Hakone executive director to step down
Shozo Kagoshima is leaving the Saratoga landmark gardens after 9 years.
Hakone head steps down
After nine years on the job, Shozo Kagoshima is stepping down as executive director of Hakone Estate and Gardens.
Kagoshima came to the Saratoga landmark after decades spent rising through the ranks at the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose. He plans to stay on the job through the summer to allow time for Hakone’s board to select his replacement.
“After spending 48 years in the travel-related field, it is time to turn in my keys and enjoy retirement,” Kagoshima told the Mercury News. “Ironically, I have only held two professional jobs in my life, and they were both with historical landmarks.”
Interested applicants can learn more about the position at hakone.com/employment.
July 4 in Saratoga
Celebrate the Fourth of July in Saratoga with live music, free popsicles and flags and a ringing of a replica Liberty Bell.
The event will take place from 9:30-11 a.m. in Kevin Moran Park, 12415 Scully Ave. The McCartysville wind band will kick off the event at with familiar patriotic tunes, and will close out the event at 11 a.m. as children parade around the park.
Attendees are invited to bring a blanket and umbrella for this outdoor event. For more information, visit facebook.com/saratogajuly4.
Free YMCA membership
This summer, the YMCA of Silicon Valley is offering free memberships for low-income families in the West Valley area, with the help of funding from Santa Clara County.
In a program called “Get Summer,” teenagers entering high school this fall on up to 2024 high school graduates will be eligible for a free YMCA membership through June 31.
Register for the free membership at ymcasv.org/get-summer-teen-initiative, or in-person at locations like the Southwest YMCA in Saratoga.