Thursday, December 30, 2010

Jewelry found on Fuller Avenue

Debbie on Fuller found a piece of jewelry in the street in front of their house this morning. If you lost a piece of jewelry and can email her with an accurate description, she can return it to its rightful owner.

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Holiday decorating winners!

Announcing the winners of the NWGNA holiday decorating contest. Thanks to all who participated and brightened our neighborhood this holiday season.

1st place 546 Atlanta
2nd place 477 Atlanta
3rd place 562 Fuller
Honorable mention: 391 Hull

Prizes will be announced and awarded soon, as well as the full list of generous sponsers of the prizes.

Thanks and congratulations to the whole neighborhood.

Happy New Year

Bill Rankin
Chair, NWGNA



Saturday, December 18, 2010

Lunar eclise on Tuesday

If the skies are clear on Tuesday night, you will be able to see a lunar eclipse. If the skies are not clear, you will be able to use the Astronomers Without Borders web site to watch webcasts streaming from several locations.

They web site also has information the solar eclipse in January.

More information about the lunar eclipse can be reviewed on Wikipedia.

Congratulations to all homes who received votes!

The final winners will be announced shortly but we would like to recognize all the homes throughout the neighborhood that received votes. For everyone who participated in any way at all thank you for a terrific event.


423 Atlanta

440 Atlanta

456 Atlanta

470 Atlanta

471 Atlanta

477 Atlanta

488 Atlanta

495 Atlanta

507 Atlanta

520 Atlanta

545 Atlanta


546 Atlanta

549 Atlanta

570 Atlanta

514 Brooks

461 Coe

939 Delmas

982 Delmas

482 Fuller

502 Fuller

562 Fuller

568 Fuller


383 Hull

385 Hull

391 Hull

477 Marshall

480 Marshall

547 Snyder

549 Snyder

982 Spencer

997 Spencer

1006 Spencer

1015 Willis

Holiday lights photos

New photos of the neighborhood holiday lights are posted online on the NWGNA Facebook page.

Feel free to add your own photos!

Friday, December 17, 2010

Supervisor Yeager's end-of-year report


Supervisor Ken Yeager's end-of-year report updating constituents on his twelve 2010 initiatives is available online. A message from Ken:

As I end my year as Board President, I want to take a moment to reflect on the goals I set for the year. In my State of the County address in January, I proposed 12 initiatives to promote a healthy economy, a healthy environment, and healthy bodies. As we wrap up 2010, progress has been made on each of these goals. Most have been accomplished while some will be achieved in the early part of 2011. Overall, each are part of building a better future for Santa Clara County.

As always, I encourage you to contact my office if you have any concerns or are interested in additional information. You can reach me at 299-5040 or via e-mail at Supervisor.Yeager@bos.sccgov.org.

Deadline tonight for holiday lights voting

Tonight is the deadline for voting in the holiday decorating contest. Get your ballots to 476 Atlanta by 8:00 p.m. There will be a ballot box on the porch at Kim and Sandy's house.

Perhaps the warm lights will balance out the rain we are expecting today!

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Friday, December 10, 2010

Holiday contest voting and treats, Sunday evening

We are looking forward to seeing as many neighbors as possible on Sunday for a little cocoa and other treats as the voting begins for the holiday decorating contest. Join us on Sunday between 5:30 and 8:00 p.m. at 476 Atlanta.

If you'd like, please go green and bring your favorite mug. Kim and Sandy will fill it right up with the beverage of your choice!

Tuesday, December 07, 2010

Big thanks to the Shukait Family!

Again this year, the Shukait family on Bird Avenue, especially Pam, helped organize the purchase of holiday yard trees. The trees arrived on Sunday and are looking great all over North Willow Glen. Pam and her family help out in this way every year, so we send out another big thanks to the Shukaits for helping make the neighborhood look especially festive.

More photos are available on Facebook. You do not have to be a member of Facebook to view the photos.

Monday, December 06, 2010

North Willow Glen Holiday Decorating Contest is on!


The North Willow Glen Holiday Decorating Contest is on! Last year's winner was 426 Coe, pictured here. If you think you can beat this, go for it!

Here’s how to participate:

1. Have your house decorated by Sunday, December 12.

2. Bring your ballot (dropped at your house in the last few days) to Kim and Sandy’s house at 476 Atlanta on Dec. 12 between 5:30 and 8:00 p.m. to start your voting with hot chocolate and cookies in hand.

3. Fill out your ballot and drop it off back at 476 Atlanta by 8:00 p.m. Friday Dec. 17.

Friday, December 03, 2010

Flier Delivery: Help Needed

We are looking for help to distribute fliers for the annual holiday decorating contest. Fliers need to be distributed by the end of the weekend.

Below is a list of the streets that will need flier distribution. If you can help in the distribution please email bill@networds.com or call 408-893-6684.

1) Fuller Avenue – Between Gregory and Bird (~26 lots)
2) Fuller Avenue – Between Bird and Delmas (~34 lots)
3) Fuller Avenue – Between Delmas and Prevost (~18 lots)
4) Bird Avenue – Between the bridge and Coe (~30 lots)
5) Bird Avenue – Between Coe and Willow (~20 lots)
6) Atlanta Avenue – Between Delmas and Prevost (~11 lots)
7) Hull Avenue – Between Bird and Delmas (~47 lots)
8) Atlanta Avenue – Between Bird and Delmas (~56 lots)
9) Hull Avenue – Between Delmas and Prevost (~25 lots)
10) Coe Avenue (~50 lots)
11) Fisk & Willis Avenues (~18 lots)
12) Marshall Avenue (~26 lots)
13) Brooks Avenue (~26 lots)
14) Willow Avenue (~18 lots)
15) Prevost Avenue (~26 lots)
16) Spencer Avenue (~42 lots)
17) Delmas Avenue – Between Atlanta and Fuller (~22 lots)
18) Delmas Avenue – Between Willow and Atlanta (~49 lots)
19) Gregory Plaza area from Bird between West Virginia and Fuller and back to 280

Sunday: Holiday Yard Trees/Wreaths

The Holiday Yard Trees and wreaths will be here on SUNDAY, Dec. 5th starting at 9:00 am! Please come by and pick yours up at 1023 Bird Ave.

Ho, Ho, Ho!
Pam and Keith Shukait


Wednesday, December 01, 2010

Walgreen's/alcohol: Meeting Summary

There was a good turnout at the planning commission meeting tonight about Walgreen's proposal to sell beer and wine at their Bird and Willow location. Seven community members spoke against the proposal and only Walgreen's outside counsel spoke in favor. Neighbors brought up issues of public safety, nearby trails, and existing crime in the surrounding area. The planning commission voted 7-0 to continue denying Walgreen's conditional use permit.

It is very likely that Walgreen's will appeal to the full San Jose City Council. If/when that happens, community input will again be needed to give input to the full council. Stay tuned.

Walgreen's/alcohol: Meeting agenda

Here is the link to the Planning Commission agenda for tonight with links to the staff reports for CP10-022 and PD10-016. The Planning Commission hearing will be held in Council Chambers at City Hall.

http://www.sanjoseca.gov/planning/hearings/PC/2010/Agenda/1201.pdf

Walgreen's/alcohol: Planning meeting TONIGHT

Information from Harvey Darnell, Chair, Greater Gardner SNI NAC, about an important meeting tonight:

Walgreen's did not listen to the unanimous community disapproval at the October Community Meeting of their plan to sell alcohol at the Bird and Willow Walgreens and decided to move it forward to a vote of the Planning Commission this Wednesday. Walgreens lawyers did this in spite of a report from the Planning Director recommending they deny the permit. I talked to the Community Coordinator for Walgreens and he indicated that even if they loose the Planning Commission vote they may appeal the decision to the full City Council. I reiterated the position of the Greater Gardner SNI NAC that there were already too many alcohol outlets in the neighborhood and that when Walgreens sold it in the past they had theft and gang problems related to the alcohol which improved when they stopped selling alcohol. I also stressed that they had problems with people using the Railroad tracks to have "Parties" which diminished once they stopped selling Alcohol and that given this is to become the Three Creeks Trail adding alcohol back would be detrimental to the trail atmosphere.

I am calling for a large number of community members to come to the Planning Commission Meeting to both remind the Planning Commission that the North Willow Glen Area Community does not need another alcohol outlet and to impress on the Walgreens Lawyers that they should not appeal the Decision to the City Council in the face of the Community Opposition. Even if you don't wish to speak to the Planning Commssion in Opposition We will have some way to let them see how many folks in the audience are opposed to granting the permit.

The Planning Commission Meeting is this Wednesday December 1 at 6:30 p.m. at the City Council Chambers, First Floor, City Hall Wing, 200 East Santa Clara Street (4th and Santa Clara).

The following is a link to the Planning Commission Agenda:

http://www.sanjoseca.gov/planning/hearings/PC/2010/Agenda/1201.pdf

The following is a link to the Staff report recommending denial of the permit:

http://www.sanjoseca.gov/planning/hearings/PC/2010/Reports/1201/PD10-016_ABC10-012.pdf

I hope to see many of you at the Planning Commission on Wednesday to let Walgreens know they should listen to the Community's concerns about alcohol sales at this Walgreensand keep alcohol sales off the Three Creeks Trail.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Big thanks to this morning's helpers!

It was a beautiful, crisp morning in the neighborhood, and a great crew came out to hang holiday decorations along our streets. Wreaths were hung on the historic light poles and garland was hung on the white gateway fences around the perimeter of the neighborhood. Many thanks to Bill, Lorraine, Karen, Dan, Pat, Stewart, Alison, Harvey, and Lila!

More photos are available via Facebook.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Sunday: Celebrate San Jose's 233rd Birthday


Celebrate the 233rd anniversary of San Jose's founding. Meet the descendants of the founders, enjoy music, dancing, and cake.

Sunday, November 28, 2010
1:00 to 4:00 pm
Peralta Adobe, 175 W. St. John Street, San Jose

More info: http://www.historysanjose.org/calendar/index.html#birthday

Neighborhood Decorating: Tomorrow!

The weather forecast is good for tomorrow's holiday neighborhood decorating. We will meet Sunday, Nov. 28 at 9:00 am in the Starbrite/Smokehouse parking lot on Delmas near Fuller.

We will have Peet's decaf, bagels, and doughnut holes as a treat for the helpers!

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Supervisor Ken Yeager's November 22 newsletter

This month's newsletter topics include:
  • District Four Residents Needed for Redistricting Committee
  • Almaden Expressway Improvement Project
  • Carbon Monoxide Is a Winter Health Threat
  • Check Before You Burn

San Jose Holiday Parade

The San Jose Holiday Parade, the largest parade of its kind in Northern California, and one of the largest in the state, is ready to usher in the holidays with its giant helium balloons, over two dozen marching bands, creative floats, dozens of specialty units, clowns, and Santa Claus. The parade will step off on Santa Clara Street and Delmas Avenue, near HP Pavilion, at 8:30 a.m. proceeding east on Santa Clara Street. It will turn right on Market Street, marching south past Plaza De Cesar Chavez and ending at San Carlos Street.

More Information: Visit http://www.sanjoseholidayparade.com or call 794-6200.

Willow Glen Elementary: Tree lighting set for Dec. 2

The annual Willow Glen Tree Lighting takes place Dec. 2 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the courtyard of Willow Glen Elementary School, 1425 Lincoln Ave.

The Willow Glen Elementary choir and band will entertain, along with students from other schools, at the 6:30 p.m. ceremony. A Santa booth will be set up and donations of coats for those in need are encouraged.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Help needed: neighborhood decorating

Please join your neighbors this Sunday, Nov. 28 at 9:00 am to help decorate the neighborhood for the holidays. We will be meeting in the Starbrite/Smokehouse parking lot on Delmas near Fuller.

Depending on volunteer numbers we will divide into groups to decorate the vintage light posts, Hummingbird Park, and the fences along Bird at the cross streets and at Willow and Delmas among other locations. It's fun and easy and it's a chance to get to know other neighbors.

The more people we have the less time it will take so bring friends and family and get a start on holiday festivities.

See you Sunday!

Reminder: no meeting tonight

Tonight's NWGNA meeting has been cancelled due to the upcoming holiday. Stay tuned for details about December events!



Saturday, November 20, 2010

No meeting on Tuesday

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, we won't be meeting this Tuesday. But, stay tuned for updates on the holiday lighting contest and party, yard tree delivery, and neighborhood decorating projects.

Horse-drawn wagons in WG for the holidays

Ride in a Percheron Draft Horse-drawn wagon enjoying the holiday lights and decorations of Downtown Willow Glen! Leave the Bergmann Building on your 20-minute round-trip ride along Lincoln Avenue.

New this year: take the wee ones and ride with Santa, singing some holiday songs along the way. Rides with Santa are limited to Friday, 11/26, 1pm-2pm; Saturday, 11/27, 1:20pm-2:40pm; and Saturday, 12/4, 6:20pm-7pm.

Wagon rides are available on Friday, 11/26 and Saturday, 11/27, 1pm-4pm as well as on Saturday evenings, 5-8pm on 12/4, 12/11 and 12/18. Prices range $8-$15 per adult/child. Children under 2 years of age may sit on an accompanying adult's lap and do not require a ticket.

See more info at http://www.willowglen.org/eventinfo.php?eventid=12408

Friday, November 19, 2010

2011 Mayor’s State of the City Address

Save the date: 2011 Mayor’s State of the City Address
Civic Auditorium  (150 West San Carlos Street )
Thursday February 17, 2010
5:30-7:00pm

There is no charge for the State of the City Address this year. Stay tuned for more information regarding seating.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Fresh & Easy stores opening "early next year"

When Fresh & Easy announced the hiring that they've started for their new local stores, there was an important phrase that we missed! They are "currently hiring for 12 stores that are set to open early next year in Northern California." See more details in their press release.

Saturday, November 13, 2010

NWGNA is growing on Facebook

We are approaching our one-year anniversary of using Facebook to spread news and events in North Willow Glen and our number of interested folks has been steadily increasing. (Except for April 18, some sort of bug in their system that day!) We now have 131 friends.

If you have suggestions for how to improve the information that we are providing, please let us know. Let your local friends and neighbors know about us, too, so we can all help continue the great things that are happening in our neighborhood.

Sunday, November 07, 2010

North Willow Glen: The tradition continues

If you are new to Willow Glen, you can read more about the holiday yard tree tradition.

Supervisor Ken Yeager's November newsletter

This month's newsletter topics include:
  • County Adopts Cutting-edge Smoking ordinances
  • Regional Agencies Provide Funds for Greener Commutes
  • California to Establish Cap and Trade Program
  • High School Competition Takes On Climate Change
  • Master Composting Program Accepting Applications
  • Calendar of Events

Santa Clara County Emergency Alert System

If you haven't already done this, you might want to think about registering to receive automatic alerts about public safety incidents, disasters, etc. The alerts can be sent to a phone, email, etc. as you choose.

http://www.alertscc.com/index.html

Thanks to Sandy for this info!

Thursday, November 04, 2010

Have you ordered your holiday yard trees yet?

Tomorrow is the deadline to get your order in for a yard tree and/or wreath. The order form is online in the Yahoo Groups area for NWGNA.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

NWGNA is on Google Calendar

Did you know that NWGNA maintains a Google Calendar and it is posted on our blog at http://northwillowglen.blogspot.com/? Upcoming meetings and events that are of interest to our neighborhood are posted to the calendar so you can stay informed about what's happening, when, and where.

If you use Google Calendar, you can add NWGNA events to your own calendar by clicking on the Google Calendar image below the calendar in the blog (example image shown to the left) and you will be asked if you want to add the calendar to your own. The events are always maintained separate from your personal calendar and displayed in a different color.

High-Speed Rail Town Hall Meeting: Thursday

The city and high speed rail have drafted a plan for how design issues will be resolved. Come hear about the proposed agreement. Ask questions. Do you think there is enough community involvement in the proposal? Does San Jose have enough say? Find out starting at 6:00 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 4 at City Hall. Remember, the aerial alignment will skim around Greater Gardner, and cross Bird Avenue just north of I-280. Shouldn't it look good? Please attend. Tell a neighbor!

Thanks to Jean Dresden for this notice.

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

North Willow Glen Holiday Tree Lane

For many years, in early December, the streets of Willow Glen begin to light up with the sparkle of miniature evergreens. We would like to invite you to join in this tradition. We have set up a way for you to order a tree for your yard.

If you are interested in having a tree in your yard, and do not already have one for this purpose, please read below for more details.
  • Orders need to be received by Friday, November 5, 2010.
  • Rebar available if requested. This is used for anchoring the tree in your yard.
  • We are expecting delivery of the trees to the neighborhood Saturday, December 4th.
  • You will have to set up the tree on your own.
  • You are responsible for putting on your own lights. A very old tradition is to use the large colored lights and to put one white light at the top of the tree.
  • Trees will be available for pick up at the Shukait’s house (1023 Bird Ave) on Sat., Dec. 4. We will email you the pick up time as we get closer to the date.
* * * This year, we are also offering 22” Noble fir and Cedar wreaths decorated with pine cones. The wreaths will be $15 each. * * *

Fliers are being delivered to your door, but you can also complete the online order form with a check made payable to: Pam Shukait or PayPal pshukait@me.com. (Trees will be from Enchanted Forest Christmas Trees.)

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Gas leak prompts evacuation of Gardner Elementary School

Read the SJ Mercury News article at http://www.mercurynews.com/top-stories/ci_16397438

Help needed: Christmas tree flyer distribution

With Fall in the air and Halloween just around the corner, it is time to think about Christmas trees! It's that time of the year again to distribute the Christmas Tree flyers!

Below is a list of the streets that will need flyer distribution. If you can help in the distribution please email Pam at . Send her your house address and she will drop off the flyers before this weekend. Distribution should be done in the next week so everyone has a chance to meet the Nov. 5th deadline.

1) Fuller Avenue – Between Gregory and Bird (~26 lots) -
2) Fuller Avenue – Between Bird and Delmas (~34 lots) -
3) Fuller Avenue – Between Delmas and Prevost (~18 lots) -
4) Bird Avenue – Between the bridge and Coe (~30 lots) -
5) Bird Avenue – Between Coe and Willow (~20 lots) -
6) Atlanta Avenue – Between Delmas and Prevost (~11 lots)
7) Hull Avenue – Between Bird and Delmas (~47 lots) -
8) Atlanta Avenue – Between Bird and Delmas (~56 lots)
9) Hull Avenue – Between Delmas and Prevost (~25 lots)
10) Coe Avenue (~50 lots) -
11) Fisk & Willis Avenues (~18 lots)
12) Marshall Avenue (~26 lots)
13) Brooks Avenue (~26 lots)
14) Willow Avenue (~18 lots)
15) Prevost Avenue (~26 lots)
16) Spencer Avenue (~42 lots)
17) Delmas Avenue – Between Atlanta and Fuller (~22 lots) -
18) Delmas Avenue – Between Willow and Atlanta (~49 lots) –
19) Gregory Plaza area from Bird between West Virginia and Fuller and back to 280 - Katie Price

Thank you for your help!
Pam Shukait

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Summary: Walgreen's proposal to sell alcohol

Here's a very brief update on the community meeting held on Monday at the Willow Glen Library to discuss Walgreens' proposal to sell alcohol. There was a full crowd, including our Council Member Pierluigi Oliverio, at the meeting. The attendees were strongly opposed to the proposal to reinstate beer and wine sales at the store.

People talked at length about prior problems when Walgreens used to sell alcohol. Additional comments were made about the overabundance of existing liquor outlets in the area, the proximity of the store to the future trail on the old railroad right-of-way, and the store's proximity to an SNI neighborhood.

The Greater Gardner NAC took a formal position of opposition to the proposal and sent a letter to the planning department detailing their position.

Jenny Nusbaum is the City of San Jose's project manager for this conditional use application by Walgreens. Her contact information is below. If you were unable to attend the meeting, want to provide input to the City or have questions about the process, please feel free to contact her.

City of San José Planning Division
Jenny Nusbaum, Project Manager
Phone: (408) 535-7872
Email: jenny.nusbaum@sanjoseca.gov

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Free documentary film showing: "Trashed"

Trashed - the film flyerOn Monday, Nov 1 at 6:30 p.m., Councilmember Pierluigi Oliverio is hosting a showing of the documentary film Trashed. It tells the story of garbage--American Style! Seating is limited so please email Tina.West@sanjoseca.gov if you would like to attend. The film's trailer is also available.

After the film there will be a group discussion with the City of San Jose Director of Environmental Services.

The event's flier with more info is also available.

Tomorrow: Your chance for input about Walgreen's alcohol permit application

Reminder: The City of San Jose Planning Division would like to invite you to a community meeting about a proposed conditional use at the Walgreen's store at Bird and Willow. Planning staff will be facilitating the meeting, providing you an opportunity to learn about the proposal and get answers to your questions.

Location: Willow Glen Branch Library Community Room
1157 Minnesota Avenue, San Jose, CA
Date: Monday, October 18, 2010
Time: 6:00 pm ─ 7:00 pm

For more info: http://www.sanjoseca.gov/planning/hearings/CNM/201/PD10-016_Bird&Willow_Walgreens.pdf

Monday, October 11, 2010

Updates from September NWGNA meeting

For those of you who weren’t able to make the last NGWNA General Meeting, held on September 28th from 6:30-8:00 PM at Word of Faith Church on Fuller and Delmas, here’s a brief recap.

We talked about the very successful Fruit and Vegetable Share. Residents have enjoyed sharing and sampling delicious organic produce and baked goods and neighbors have had a chance to get to know one another. There was discussion about which other things we could share and how best to continue the momentum. The continuous improvement of the Share events be a subject of discussion at future meetings.

Franklin Maggi, an Architectural Historian from Archives and Architecture, spoke at the meeting.  His company is under contract with the City of San Jose to perform an architectural survey of this neighborhood. This survey could lead to designating our neighborhood as a historic conservation area if the residents were interested in pursuing this (think Palm Haven and Shasta Hanchett as examples.) The study will be completed next summer and the Planning Department will then present it to the neighborhood.  Harvey Darnell is the neighborhood contact and he will be sharing more information with us in the General Meetings as it becomes available. 

Also discussed was the Holiday Decoration Contest.  Pam Shukait will once again be distributing yard trees.  The price is a phenomenally low $16 per tree!  More details will be forthcoming about the decoration contest as we get closer to the Holiday season.

A big item of discussion was the Walgreen’s proposal to start selling alcohol. The majority of attendees were opposed, with some folks feeling neutral on the subject. Our neighborhood does have a voice in the matter. The Planning Department will be conducting an information meeting at the Willow Glen Library at Willow Glen Branch Library Community Room, 1157 Minnesota Avenue, San Jose, CA on Monday, October 18, 2010 from 6:00-7:00 PM .  This is our opportunity to weigh in about what we think is best for our neighborhood. 

Harvey Darnell, President of the Greater Gardner NAC (Neighborhood Action Committee), gave a brief presentation on what’s going on with the Strong Neighborhoods Initiative.  Given the Redevelopment Agency’s budget situation things are not looking good. Half of the SNI staff have been laid off due to budget constraints and all improvement projects that have not yet broken ground have been canceled.  One piece of good news is that the current draft of the City’s 2040 plan still shows our neighborhood as single family residences.

Lastly we discussed problems in Fuller Park.  Individuals have been congregating in the park in the late evening and consuming alcohol.  (The park is closed after sunset and alcohol is never allowed).  They have been leaving trash and graffiti including gang tags.   For increased police patrols in this area, call the 311 non-emergency number if you observe this kind of activity. Updates to the situation will be discussed at the next General Meeting.

Following the meeting, many of us gathered outside the facility to get acquainted with other neighbors in attendance before heading home for the evening. But not before sampling Bill's apple crisp made with neighborhood apples from the Fruit and Vegetable Share.

Thursday, October 07, 2010

Put it on your calendar: Community meeting for Walgreen's alcohol permit application

The City of San Jose Planning Division would like to invite you to a community meeting about a proposed conditional use at the Walgreen's store at Bird and Willow. Planning staff will be facilitating the meeting, providing you an opportunity to learn about the proposal and get answers to your questions.

Location: Willow Glen Branch Library Community Room
1157 Minnesota Avenue, San Jose, CA
Date: Monday, October 18, 2010
Time: 6:00 pm ─ 7:00 pm

For more info: http://www.sanjoseca.gov/planning/hearings/CNM/2010/PD10-016_Bird&Willow_Walgreens.pdf

Wednesday, October 06, 2010

San Jose neighborhood updates

City Memo on Changes to the Police Department Download Document: 09-24-10 CMO.pdf (413.9 KB)

City Memo on Changes at Code EnforcementDownload Document: 10-04-10 PBCE.PDF (62.12 KB)

Neighborhood Leadership Institute Training: Saturday November 13 at San José State For inquiries, please contact Natalie de Leon at (408) 279-2600

Caltrans Problem Report (i.e. Troubles Along 280) http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/maint/msrsubmit/

Video of the September 22 NAC Meeting (Thanks, Mark Warlick, Blackford NAC)
CNAC is the Coalition of the "Strong Neighborhood Initiative" (SNI) areas identified by the City of San Jose as requiring the intervention of City resources and neighborhood volunteers to handle problems such as blight, crime and street gangs. This part two of the September executive board meeting held 22 September 2010
http://www.youtube.com/user/CNACSanJose

The latest from the Redevelopment Agency on Neighborhoods in Crisis http://www.sjredevelopment.org/inforMemos/20100927StrongNeighborhoodsBusinessPlan.pdf
 

Tuesday, October 05, 2010

Spread the word!

The North Willow Glen neighborhood has had a great surge of information in the last year via the Yahoo! Groups list and the blog (which copies over to Facebook). All of this means that we are all sharing more information with each other and contributing to our great neighborhood. We now have more than 125 people on Facebook, and over 200 people on the Yahoo! Groups list.

So, help us spread the word by letting other neighbors know about these resources. If you are chatting with a neighbor, ask them if they know about these forums to help include more people.

If neighbors need more info, they can send an email to nwgna-owner@yahoogroups.com.

Saturday, October 02, 2010

Please help find Bingo

Sadly, Bingo is still missing from North Willow Glen after several weeks. Bingo is a volunteer dog in senior living communities and his family misses him greatly. Please help find him! He is a Shih Tzu, neutered, white with black spots.

Click on the photo to see it larger.

CALL IF FOUND - 1-888-833-4208

Friday, October 01, 2010

Reminder: half marathon in San Jose on Sunday

The 5th Annual Rock N’ Roll Half Marathon will be held on Sunday, October 3, 2010 at 8am. The race begins and ends in downtown San Jose, running through Japantown, University Ave, Rose Garden, and Cory neighborhoods. Please plan your Sunday travels accordingly.

Course Map: http://san-jose.competitor.com/files/2009/04/SJ_10_CourseMap.pdf

No fruit/veggie share this weekend

As a reminder, there will be no fruit and veggie share this weekend. Discussions are taking place to see what the schedule and location might be going forward into the fall and winter. If you expect to have goodies to share as the seasons change, please post a comment so you can help us gauge interest.

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Please report graffiti to have it removed

There has been an increase in graffiti in the neighborhood recently, which is not good. For those who have lived here more than a few years, you will remember the kinds of problems that we all worked hard to leave in the past, and we don't want to return to those days.

So, if you see graffiti, please report it to the San Jose Anti-Graffiti Program via their phone system. It's a simple step to take a phone with you on your walks and make a quick call to report the location, surface color, and other info to the anti-graffiti team. They will come out to help remove the markings -- all you have to do is make a call, and it can even be anonymous.

Anti-Graffiti Team 408-277-2758
If you see graffiti in progress: 408-277-8911 (direct 911 call to San Jose Police)

A short, but long history

For those who have never seen it, there is a "Short History of North Willow Glen" available online, going back to the 1870s. This information was compiled by Dan Erceg and others and is part of the old NWGNA web site that was maintained by Ken Eklund. It is an interesting read, especially as the historical survey of our neighborhood gets underway. Check it out!

Monday, September 27, 2010

Agenda for Tuesday's general meeting

We look forward to seeing you at Tuesday's neighborhood meeting, 6:30-8:00 p.m. at the Word of Faith Church, 873 Delmas Avenue (corner of Fuller and Delmas Ave). Here's the agenda:

* Upcoming holiday events
     - Decorating contest
           Organization, promotion, hosting
     - Yard trees
* Fruit & veggie share feedback, next steps
* Historic survey
     - Guest speaker: Franklin Maggi, Architectural Historian
* Neighborhood news

Willow/Lincoln project begins, free valet parking

View from Lincoln Avenue

Construction began this morning on the 41,000-square-foot mixed-use project at Willow and Lincoln. The project, from Paja Investments LLC and designed by Kahn Design Associates, will include about 18,000 square feet of ground-floor retail and about 23,000 feet of second- and third-floor office space.

One important note: the demolition that should begin this week for this project affects the parking lot behind Jamba Juice, Noah's, Peet's, etc. The project is providing free valet parking to all customers. So, if you are a regular customer who drives to these businesses, you will be able to park using the free valet. Some of the businesses are concerned about a big drop in business due to the construction, so let's spread the word that you can still enjoy these businesses just like always.

You can read more about the project on the architect's web site. Info on project tenants are also available.

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Flier Delivery: More Help Needed

We have a few more streets that need fliers delivered for next Tuesday's NWGNA general meeting. It's a great way to see the neighborhood and the weather will be great!

Bird - 64 homes
Fuller - 86 homes
Hull - 71 homes
Delmas - 66 homes

Call Bill at 408-893-6684 if you can help.

Friday, September 24, 2010

Trick or Treat on Lincoln Avenue: Help Needed

The Willow Glen Business Association is very excited to coordinate the 2010 Trick or Treat event on Lincoln Avenue. Our goal for this year is to focus on safety and organization! To achieve this goal, we need volunteers to fill the position of Cross guards or Trail Monitors. You can volunteer for either one or both time slots. Let’s make this a safe event for San Jose’s children!

What: Trick or Treat Event on Lincoln Avenue
Where: Lincoln Avenue, Downtown Willow Glen
When: Friday, October 29th
Time Slots: 10am-12pm AND/OR 2pm-4pm
Positions Available:
Cross guards: 8 for morning shift; 4 for afternoon shift – adults only

* Stationed at key crosswalks
* Safely crosses trick-or-treaters
* Stops pedestrians to allow cars to pass in order to minimize back-ups

***Equipment: safety vests, whistle, stop sign or flag

Trail Monitors: 10-15 per shift

* Directs trick-or-treaters to follow trail (clock-wise)
* Informs trick-or-treaters and businesses that shift has ended
* Backs up cross guards as needed

Contact: If you are interested in volunteering for this event, please contact Cynthia Gutierrez at 298-2100 or cynthia@willowglen.org.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Help needed: flier delivery this weekend

We will have fliers later today for next week's NWGNA general meeting and are looking for flier delivery help around the neighborhood for this weekend.

Please call Bill at 408-893-6684 or email to bill@networds.com if you can help.

Kittens!


The Terry family on Spencer had two kittens show up just inside of their fence on Wednesday. It's possible that they've been abandoned, but it's also possible that someone was taking care of them and the momma kitty decided to find a new home. They are walking, but, not very steadily.

If you know of a good shelter that would take them, they would love to get the info. Or, if you want to adopt them, feel free!

Please contact john@foobert.com.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

San Jose's redevelopment agency lays off 14 employees

See the article in today's Mercury News about the latest round of layoffs at the San Jose Redevelopment Agency.

"Among notable employees let go was Deputy Executive Director Abi Maghamfar, who helped oversee the popular Strong Neighborhoods Initiative and some downtown projects. Sal Alvarez, the interim Strong Neighborhoods manager who focused on several Eastside communities, also was on the list.
"Money for the initiative, which invests in neighborhood improvement projects, has been slashed from the new budget as Mavrogenes tries to focus his dwindling resources on big-ticket economic development projects such as the proposed downtown baseball stadium and a face-lift for the city's convention center."

Fresh & Easy planning one more store in the area


Fresh & Easy now says that they are adding another store in the area, this one in Sunnyvale. Their local stores are slated to open in early 2011, including the one at Bird and Minnesota.

If you would like to follow news about Fresh & Easy, check out  http://freshneasybuzz.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Have you seen this dog?


This dog has been missing from North Willow Glen for the last week. Bingo is a volunteer dog in senior living communities and his family misses him. Please help find him! He is a Shih Tzu, neutered, white with black spots.

Click on the photo to see it larger.

CALL IF FOUND - 1-888-833-4208

Monday, September 20, 2010

Supervisor Yeager's September 2010 Newsletter

County Supervisor Ken Yeager's latest newsletter is available online. Topics include:
  • Three Creeks Funding Approved
  • Lack of State Budget Puts Strain on County Finances
  • Local Transportation Agencies Get You Moving Quicker
  • Calendar of Events

List of PG&E's 100 high-risk natural gas pipeline segments

PG&E has released a list of the top 100 high-risk gas pipeline segments and there appears to be no segments near greater Willow Glen.

Mercury News editorial: It's payback time for High-Speed Rail in San Jose

An editorial in today's Mercury News contained a nice shout-out to the hard-working group who were successful in getting high-speed rail to choose a route that does not cut through Gardner and North Willow Glen:
San Jose has scored an important victory with high-speed rail already: moving the preferred route out of the Gardner neighborhood to an alignment over freeways that Larsen's team suggested. But the real credit for that victory goes to community leaders in Greater Gardner, who rooted out facts, raised excellent questions and presented it all so reasonably but persistently that they could not be ignored.
Maybe the city should call on them to go to bat for the design agreement.

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

5th Annual San Jose Rock N’ Roll Half Marathon

The 5th Annual Rock N’ Roll Half Marathon will be held on Sunday, October 3, 2010 at 8am. The race begins and ends in downtown San Jose, running through Japantown, University Ave, Rose Garden, and Cory neighborhoods.

More information can be found through San Jose ’s Rock N’ Roll Half Marathon web site at http://san-jose.competitor.com/.

Course Map: http://san-jose.competitor.com/files/2009/04/SJ_10_CourseMap.pdf

Monday, September 13, 2010

Last chance to ask for an underground station for High-Speed Rail

Thanks to Jean Dresden for this:

Last chance to ask for an underground station for High-Speed Rail. San Jose City Council will make a decision about what to ask of High Speed Rail Authority. Tomorrow, Sept. 14 at about 2:30 pm, City Hall.

Check out the op-ed in Mercury News. It explains why it is important to study an underground option in the EIR.

Councilmember Liccardo has authored a memo, along with Mayor Reed and Councilmembers Kalra and Nguyen, for tomorrow’s council agenda item regarding high speed rail. The full agenda item 6.1 is available.

Friday, September 10, 2010

Fruit/Veggie Share this Sunday


The fruit/veggie share will be held again this Sunday from 11:30 to 1:30 in front of 1012 Spencer, between Willow and Atlanta. We encourage anyone who would like garden goodies to come by, even if you don't have anything to bring. There's always more than enough to go around, and it's free!

This week's requests: figs, apples, tomatoes, lemons, any seeds, and a tea plant.

Save Our Trails: Request to ensure completion of Three Creeks Trail

From Taisia McMahon, President of Save Our Trails:

This is a critical request and a sure way to ensure the completion of the Three Creeks Trail. Please attend this Tuesday September 14 Board of Supervisor’s meeting at 9:30am in their chambers located at 70 West Hedding Street, San Jose.

The Board will vote on whether to approve $2 million for the immediate purchase of the Western Alignment of the Three Creeks Trail and another $1 million for the future purchase of the East Side portion of the trail.

Once we have acquired the Western half, it will be time to focus on the Eastern half for a long-awaited East/West trail corridor.

PLEASE ATTEND THIS MEETING -- our cause has grown and gained momentum because of the efforts of our fantastic membership and supporters. We would not be here if it weren’t for your continued support and commitment.

The community outpouring has been the critical piece to the success of our efforts.

Meeting agenda: http://www.sccgov.org/portal/site/scc/bosagendalist

Read about your neighbor in SJ Mercury News

In yesterday's Merc: North Willow Glen resident gives connections between strangers a visual at 01 festival

Thursday, September 09, 2010

Urgent request for blood donations

Blood Centers of the Pacific is issuing an emergency appeal for blood donations, particularly of Type O negative, to replenish the supply currently being depleted by those injured in today's explosion and fire in San Bruno.

Blood Centers of the Pacific http://www.bloodcenters.org/blood-donation/donation-locations/
1-800-393-GIVE

Stanford Blood Center http://bloodcenter.stanford.edu/donate/
1-888-723-7831

Red Cross Blood Donation http://www.redcrossblood.org
San Jose Donor Center
2731 N First Street
San Jose, CA 95134

http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=news/local&id=7659799&tsp=1

Wednesday, September 08, 2010

Know your neighbors, support each other


Recently in North Willow Glen, a person out walking their dog noticed some young men walking down a neighbor's driveway. Since she knew that person was away, she immediately alerted the police and an arrest was made on the spot. Hurray for knowing your neighbors and sticking together to create a better neighborhood!

Another reminder that we need to keep our eyes open, know our neighbors and their habits, and call when we see something or someone out of the ordinary. Remember, you can always call 311 if you see an unusual situation and the dispatcher will determine if it's an emergency.

Tuesday, September 07, 2010

Alcohol permit application: Walgreens, Bird & Willow

The Walgreen's at Bird and Willow has applied for a conditional use permit to allow the store to sell alcohol. We are gathering more information on this potential change, but if you are interested in this issue, please let us know by emailing bill@networds.com.

Saturday, September 04, 2010

Fruits and veggies, oh my!

The fruit and veggie events have been so successful that we sometimes have leftover garden goodies. We want to encourage everyone to come share in the fruits, veggies, etc. so we are renaming this regular event -- it is now The Fruit and Veggie Share. You don't have to offer anything to receive local garden bounty. Just come by, visit, and see what you can use so that it does not end up going to waste.

This week, we have had requests for lemons, squash, and cherry tomatoes, so if you have those items to share, bring them by 1012 Spencer Avenue between 11:30 and 1:30 on Sunday.

Wednesday, September 01, 2010

Air District pays cash for old cars

Another note from Supervisor Yeager:

In addition to serving as a member of the California Air Resources Board, I represent the County locally on the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD). BAAQMD runs a variety of programs aimed at reducing air pollution and greenhouse gases—Spare the Air probably being one of its most well known. Another of its more popular services is the Vehicle Buy Back Program.

The Vehicle Buy Back Program will pay $1,000 for an operating and registered 1989 and older vehicle. Vehicle dismantlers contracted by the BAAQMD will then scrap the vehicles. This program reduces air pollution by voluntarily removing older, dirtier vehicles off the road.

To qualify, vehicles must be in running condition and registered in the Bay Area for the past 24 months. Vehicles within 60 days of a smog check must also be able to pass it. For more information, go to www.baaqmd.gov/vbb. The program ends on December 31, 2010.

CalTrain needs your input on proposed changes

Note from Santa Clara County Supervisor Ken Yeager about CalTrain:

On September 2 at 10 a.m., Caltrain will hold a public hearing to review options and receive comments on possible fare and service changes. Caltrain is the only Bay Area transit agency without a dedicated source of funding, and it is facing a $2.3 million deficit in this fiscal year. The other members of the Board of Directors and I would like to hear your opinion on proposals for closing the gap.

Caltrain’s budget problems can be attributed to several factors. The commuter railroad has lost $10 million in state funds each year for the last three years. Last year the state eliminated State Transportation Assistance funds, forcing Caltrain’s three partners – the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, the San Mateo County Transit District and the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority – to reduce their support.

Based on public input up to this point, two proposals will no longer be considered for this year. Those include cutting weekend service and ending service South of Tamien Station to Gilroy. However, the following proposals are still under consideration:
  • Reduce weekday early morning, midday and/or late evening service
  • Discontinue staffed ticket offices
  • Increase fares
  • Modify parking fees and regulations
Last year, eight midday trains were eliminated and parking fees were increased to close a $2.6 million budget gap. In addition to a hiring freeze on all but the most essential positions, salaries have been frozen and staff will take a total of 17 mandatory furlough days. Unfortunately, the financial outlook for Caltrain is not likely to improve much next year, and more cuts will likely be considered then.

The public hearing will be held at the Caltrain Administrative Office at 1250 San Carlos Ave. in San Carlos. Prior to the meeting, you can email comments to changes@caltrain.com. You can also send your thoughts to me at supervisor.yeager@bos.sccgov.org. Fuller details of the proposed changes can be found at http://www.caltrain.com/riderinfo/Input_Sought_on_Proposed_Changes.html.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Three Creeks Trail: Important Decisions - Have Your Say

Thanks to Barbara Keegan for this note about important, timely decisions about Three Creeks Trail:
-----------------------------
Below is an excerpt from an editorial in today's San Jose Mercury News regarding a proposed trail extension that would link existing trails near our neighborhood.

The Open Space Authority will be taking action tonight to consider coming up with some additional funding to make this project a reality.

Our representative on the OSA Board is Mike Potter. His email address is mpotter@openspaceauthority.org

I strongly support this important trail project and encourage those of you who share my interest in expanding our trail system to make your voices heard. I don't think I can make tonight's meeting, but I will be sending an email to Mr. Potter to express my support of this project.

"The goal of establishing a real trail network in Santa Clara County at times has looked doubtful...The goal can move much closer tonight if the county Open Space Authority agrees to San Jose's request to kick in another $1 million for the purchase of Union Pacific Railroad right of way. If you care, drop by the board meeting and speak up. It's at 6 p.m. at the authority's headquarters, 6980 Santa Teresa Blvd. in San Jose.

We already have the Los Gatos Creek Trail, the Guadalupe River Park, the Highway 87 Bikeway and the Coyote Creek Trail -- all great places to walk or bike. But the Three Creeks Trail will provide the three-mile crosstown connection to tie them into a network...San Jose has come up with several million dollars, and next month the Santa Clara County supervisors will vote on a $2 million allocation from the voter-designated Park Charter Fund for regional parks and open space. The Open Space Authority already has contributed $2 million toward the project, and we hope it can find another $1 million."

Monday, August 23, 2010

Three Creeks Trail: Have Your Say

If you are interested in offering your opinion on the Three Creeks Trail project, there are three opportunities:
  • Attend the Open Space Authority Meeting this Thursday, August 26, 2010 at 6pm in South San Jose. See http://www.openspaceauthority. org/about/agendas.html for more information.
  • Write a letter to the Board of Supervisors about the Three Creeks Trail because the acquisition is time sensitive
  • Union Pacific Railroad is required to do a clean-up of their former rail line prior to selling the land. There is concern for bigger, older trees along the line so that they are not harmed during the clean-up process. Save Our Trails is asking concerned neighbors to write emails to Andrew Berna-Hicks, the DTSC Project Manager, asking that an arborist be retained to inventory all specimen trees with roots in the proposed areas of contaminated soil removal and that a plan be devised to preserve these trees against any significant injury from the removal work. The deadline for public comments is 5:00 p.m., August 26, 2010.
Note: For anyone who is interested in the background of this path and the purpose of the planned Three Creeks Trail including the opportunity it provides for cross-county connectivity, please see a slide show prepared by Larry Ames for Supervisor Shirakawa at this address: http://www.l-ames.com/3Crks/pages/image/imagepage1.html; click on the >> in the upper right corner to step forward through the presentation.

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Fruit/Veggie/Etc. Requests

If you have a special request for the fruit, veggie, etc. exchange, send email to ambwrr@yahoo.com and we will get the word out. Our very first request has already been answered with a promised crop of avocados for this Sunday.

So far, we have heard requests for these plants: tea, catnip, and stevia. If you are splitting your plants and have extra, bring them by!

Fruit/Veggie Exchange: Sunday!

Join us for the fruit, veggie, etc. exchange on Sunday from 11:30 to 1:30 in front of 1012 Spencer, between Willow and Atlanta. We know that we will have avocados, watermelon, and more!

Fruits
Veggies
Seeds
Bulbs
Cut flowers
Plants
Baked goods
Coupons
And more

Even if you do not have a home garden, come by and pick up some fresh produce and other goodies! Call 408-893-6684 with any questions.

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Monday, August 16, 2010

Volunteers needed for roads commission

The County is currently seeking volunteers to serve on its Roads Commission. The Roads Commission acts in an advisory capacity to the Board of Supervisors on matters generally relating to the planning, design, construction, maintenance and operation of the County's expressways, highways and roads.

If you are interested in being appointed to the Committee, please contact Hong Cao in my office. She can be reached at 299-5040 or hong.cao@bos.sccgov.org.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Fruit/Veggie Exchange starts this Sunday!

Carrot Seeds
Fruit/Veggie Exchange
Every Sunday through September
11:30 a.m. — 1:30 p.m.

Front yard of 1012 Spencer (between Willow and Atlanta)

Bring your extra bounty of fruits, veggies, seeds, bulbs, cut flowers, and succulents, even baked goods, to share with neighbors. Take what you need, leave something to share. Call 408-893-6684 with any questions.

Also: If you have a large quantity of fruit in your yard, Village Harvest is a nonprofit volunteer organization in the greater San Francisco Bay Area that harvests fruit from backyards and small orchards, then will pass it along to local food agencies to feed the hungry.  Contact Village Harvest at 888-378-4841 or villageharvest.org

Feel free to share a recipe that uses summer garden goodies!

Fruit/Veggie Exchange flier delivery help needed

We have fliers today for the fruit and veggie exchange that we are starting this weekend and are looking for flier delivery help around the neighborhood for this weekend. The fliers will need to be delivered by Saturday night at the latest. Sorry for the late notice!

Please call Bill at 408-893-6684 or email to bill@networds.com if you can help.

S.J. Municipal Rose Garden named 'America's best'

A nonprofit association of rose growers has named the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden as "America's Best". Read about it in the Mercury News and plan a visit.

Saturday, August 07, 2010

SJ Mercury News: Three Creeks Trail

Read about the plan to unite three major trails in San Jose in today's Mercury News: http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_15689633

To submit comments to the county, e-mail parkinfo@prk.sccgov.org. For questions, call 408.355.2215. For updates on the Three Creeks Trail, visit www.sjparks.org/Trails/WillowGlenSpur/WGS.asp.

Union Pacific right-of-way

From David Dearborn about the railway right-of-way:

Union Pacific Railway right of way (ROW) between Lonus and Minnesota Ave. is slated for clean up: 4,000 dump truck trips - 2,000 full... 2,000 empty. Contaminated soil under and near the old tracks will be removed and new clean soil added to replace it.

Come learn more.
Ask questions and comment.
Help make this a good thing for San Jose and Willow Glen.

Save Our Trails as been working for some time to raise funding and political will for bringing this into San Jose's trail network. The project is far from complete but this Clean Up Project could bring this one step closer. Come learn more...

AUGUST 11, 2010 Wednesday 6:30PM at Hicks & Minnesota

For more information and a brief slide show summary visit Project Overview (this may take a minute to load)

Sunday, August 01, 2010

Virginia Street flood control project is progressing


Work is underway by the Santa Clara Valley Water District on a $10 million project to protect nearly 7,500 homes from a 100-year flood by improving flood channel capacity. It is quite an impressive undertaking that should lead to the area being removed from the flood zone and removing the necessity to purchase flood insurance. You can take a stroll down Virginia across Highway 87 to see the work that is underway or read more at http://www.valleywater.org/services/UpperGuad6.aspx.

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Our City Forest Tree Tour

From a listing in the SF Chronicle:

Tree Tour on the Tree Mobile
Saturday, Aug 21 10:00a to 11:00a
at CVS Parking Lot, San Jose, CA

All aboard Our City Forest's 16-passenger shuttle bus for a driving tour of the beautiful trees in Willow Glen!

Your arborist guide will introduce common street tree species, teach about CA natives, & more!

Price: FREE
Phone: (408)998-7337x105
Age Suitability: Teens and up

*Limit 15 participants*

RSVP REQUIRED! Contact Amanda Grebner at (408) 998-7337x105 or agrebner@ourcityforest.org.

Our City Forest is a 501(c)(3) urban forestry nonprofit serving San José.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Come join us for our next General Meeting. All are welcome!

We would like to hear from the community on how NWGNA can reach its full potential. Please let us know of any suggestions you have to better our little community.

We're coming off of a successful and very fun Fourth of July picnic and we've had some great General Meetings this year with lots of guest speakers including a Master Gardener, SJPD, and even a surprise appearance from our San Jose City Council member. Help us keep our momentum up and going strong by joining our discussion. Hear about the great strides made to keep High Speed Rail out of our backyards! We'll also be talking about a proposed neighborhood fruit and vegetable exchange, community garage sales and whatever you'd like to suggest. We hope to see you there!

North Willow Glen Neighborhood Association General Meeting
Tuesday at 6:30 pm
Word of Faith Church, 873 Delmas Ave at the corner of Delmas and Fuller

Friday, July 23, 2010

Flier delivery help needed

We will have fliers later today for next week's NWGNA general meeting and are looking for flier delivery help around the neighborhood for this weekend.

Please call Bill at 408-893-6684 or email to bill@networds.com if you can help.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Willow Glen People's Choice Awards: Voting Open

The Mercury News / Willow Glen Resident are asking for votes in the Willow Glen People's Choice Awards for your favorite parts of the neighborhood and surrounding area. Ballots are available online and the deadline is July 23 at noon. check with Mayra Flores De Marcotte for more information.

Meeting on draft medical marijuana ordinance

The City of San Jose will be holding a community meeting on the draft Medical Marijuana Ordinances on:

Tuesday, July 20, 2010
6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M.
Roosevelt Community Center
901 East Santa Clara Street [near 21st St.]

At this meeting, attendees will have the opportunity to self-select a topic to provide input that will help staff further develop the Ordinances for City Council consideration. Key topics include:
  • Registration Process & Requirements
  • Operating Requirements
  • Taxing Marijuana Businesses
  • Land Use Policy
The staff report and draft ordinance are on-line at http://sanjoseca.gov/clerk/agenda/20100622/20100622a.pdf.

Saturday, July 17, 2010

It's a lemonade moment for Trace Elementary School

Parents of students from Trace Elementary School had a lemonade stand in front of the school today to help raise funds for teachers' supplies after the recent fire and raised $750. When life gives you lemons...

Greater Gardner Coalition meeting notes available

Meeting notes are available for the Greater Gardner Coalition - Strong Neighborhood Initiative meeting from Wednesday, July 7, 2010.

Topics include:
  • Police report on local crimes
  • High-speed rail
  • Diridon Good Neighbor Update
  • National Night Out

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Give your input for future county parks

Parks Acquisition Plan Public Workshops
The County of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation Department is seeking public input to guide the County’s future parkland acquisition efforts. The voters approved the current Park Charter Fund in 2006, ensuring funding through 2021 for acquisition, development, operation, and maintenance of the County’s 46,000-acre 28-park system. Fifteen percent of the funding is allocated specifically for land acquisition.

Three community workshops are scheduled for July for the public to provide input on future direction of the County’s purchase of parkland, including trails.

The last of three meetings will be held at the Mayfair Community Center in San Jose on July 14, 7 to 9 PM.
Location: 2039 Kammerer Ave., San Jose

The workshops will provide an overview of current County parks, the planned Countywide Trail System, and future park expansion areas as identified in the County General Plan. While the updated Parks Acquisition Plan will not identify specific parcels to be acquired, the public will have an opportunity in these workshops to help identify acquisition criteria and provide other thoughts about parkland acquisition to County staff. A summary of the public input will be presented to the Board of Supervisors in August.

For more info, contact Tamara Clark Shear at tamara.shear@prk.sccgov.org

Saturday, July 10, 2010

Wednesday, July 07, 2010

Supporting Trace Elementary School


In the early morning hours of July 5, there was a five-alarm fire at Trace Elementary in the Rose Garden neighborhood. The fire tore through a 28,000-square-foot building on the Trace campus, destroying 19 classrooms and the school library, causing an estimated $10 million in damage.
If you can help with a donation, either financial or in kind, the details will posted on the San Jose Unified School District web site.

Monday, July 05, 2010

Photos available from July 4 potluck BBQ

Check out the photos from yesterday's event! A good time was had by all. Many thanks to the great volunteers.

Friday, July 02, 2010

Be careful out there...

A child playing with a sparkler ignited a three-alarm fire today in San Jose, causing an estimated $400,000 to $500,000 in damage. Remember the all fireworks, including sparklers, are illegal in San Jose and can cause significant damage and injury.

Rec swim at Biebrach Pool

In addition to swim lessons, the team running Biebrach Pool this year are offering rec swim times every day but Sunday, just a few blocks away. Check out the details.

Water Balloon Filling Party

We will be having a water balloon toss on Sunday in Fuller Park, so we need to fill a bunch of water balloons ahead of time. If you can help, meet us in the front yard of 1012 Spencer on Saturday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Thursday, July 01, 2010

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Robbery update

Updates on yesterday's robbery.

Gardner Community Center Youth Programming

Councilmember Liccardo would like to convene a meeting to discuss the Gardner Community Center and youth programming at the center for the next several months. The meeting will be at 6:30 this Wednesday, June 30, immediately after the grand re-opening celebration for Biebrach Pool. The weather should be nice, so we will more than likely have an outdoor meeting just outside the pool area.

Biebrach Pool Re-Opening

Press Release from San Jose Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services:

Sparkle Swim School to Host Splash Down Event
New Community Partner Celebrates the Opening of Biebrach Pool

San José, CA– San Jose’s new community partner; Sparkle Swim School, will celebrate the opening of the Biebrach Pool with a Splash Down event on Wednesday, June 30, 2010, 6pm - 7pm, W. Virginia St & Delmas Ave. Gardner community members and city residents are encouraged to join the fun.

Sparkle Swim School offers Recreational Swim and Swim Lessons Monday through Saturday for all ages, from water babies to adults at affordable rates. This pool site joins the City’s five other sites; Camden, Fair Swim Center, Mayfair and Rotary Ryland pools as well as Almaden Lake, in offering aquatic recreation this summer. The opening of Biebrach Pool was made possible by sponsorship from Council District 3 and the San Jose Parks Foundation in collaboration with local non-profit operator, Sparkle Swim School.

Event: Sparkle Swim School Splash Down
When: Wednesday, June 30, 2010, 6pm – 7pm
Where: Biebrach Pool, W. Virginia St & Delmas Ave.,
Featured Speaker: Councilmember Sam Liccardo


More Information:
For more information on the Splash Down event contact Alison Brown at 535-3579 or Alison.Brown@sanjoseca.gov.
For more information on the more information on the City of San Jose Aquatics program, contact Dan Wax at 535-3576 or dan.wax@sanjoseca.gov.
For more information on recreational swimming and swim lessons at Biebrach Pool please contact Sparkle Swim School, 408-332-3623, info@sparkleswimschool.com or visit www.sparkleswimschool.com

Monday, June 28, 2010

Police calls in the neighborhood

Another tool is available to track the police calls or stops in the area. This data does not include all crime, since many reports are filed via phone or internet, but you can set up alerts to know more about what's happening in the area.

Local home invasion robbery

A nearby family was the victim of an early-morning home invasion robbery. Read the details and keep your homes locked.

Be careful at Bird and Willow

Because the street construction project is not quite finished, the lane markers have not been replaced on Willow as you approach Bird Avenue. This means that the left turn lane (to turn on to Bird) is not marked and the two lanes that travel straight are not marked. On several occasions, three lanes of cars have traveled straight ahead (after the light turns green) and within 50 feet are narrowed to one lane, causing a confusing and dangerous situation. Hopefully, the lane markers will be replaced soon, but in the interim, use a great deal of caution and a good dose of yielding at that intersection to prevent an accident.

Volunteers needed: July 4 flier delivery

We are looking for help to deliver fliers for the noontime July 4 potluck in Fuller Park. If you can help deliver fliers by Friday, call Bill at 408-893-6684 or email bill@networds.com.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Local Burglary

You can use crimereports.com to keep tabs on local incidents. There's a report of a burglary last Tuesday near Willow and Prevost. Check out more information.

Monday, June 14, 2010

The weather is heating up so be prepared

The summer heat is here, so it's a good time to review the very useful information from the San Jose Fire Department about fire prevention and other safety issues. There's information on child car seats, senior safety, wildfire awareness, smoke detectors, and more. Check it out at http://www.sjfd.org/PubEd/index_pubed.asp.

Friday, June 11, 2010

Three Arrested in Connection with Willow Glen and South San Jose Home Burglaries

Because of great work by alert neighbors, three people have been arrested for various property crimes, including possession of stolen property. Check out the good news at http://www.sjpd. org/inews/ viewPressRelease .asp?ID=395

Wednesday, June 09, 2010

Repairs underway on Willow Street

If you haven't already noticed, repairs are underway on Willow Street from Lelong Avenue to Lincoln Avenue. The project to rebuild Willow Street is part of the Economic Recovery Projects.

Watch for detours and uneven pavement!

Monday, June 07, 2010

Don't forget to water young trees...

News from Our City Forest:

Please, water young trees! Summer heat waves can be fatal.

Newly planted and young trees are especially at risk! During the dry season:
  • Water with 5-10 gallons at least twice a week
  • Soil should be moist but not over-saturated
  • Add mulch around the base, but NOT touching the trunk
Learn more about tree care & watering on the Our City Forest web site!

Questions? Contact OCF today at (408) 998-7337 x118.

Friday, June 04, 2010

Mercury news article: High-speed rail route

Today's Mercury News had an article about the high-speed rail project and removing the neighborhood route from the Environmental Impact Report.

Thursday, June 03, 2010

HSR: Neighborhood route no longer being considered!

Congratulations Greater Gardner--the neighborhoods of North Willow Glen, Gardner, and Gregory Plaza!

High Speed Rail staff released their choice for routes through San Jose Thursday morning at 9 am. The board is expected to approve the recommendations at about noon on Thursday.

The only route that will be analyzed in the EIR is 87-280.

The Fuller Park alignment has been dropped.  They plan no High Speed Rail trains on the current alignment. This means by 2015 there will be just UPRR, a few Caltrains (about 6 per day), and some Ace trains that will park at Tamien.

Here's why High Speed Rail staff recommended no Greater Gardner alignment--

"..because of potential impacts to the neighborhoods including community cohesion, noise/vibration, impacts on Fuller Park and displacement of a nonprofit (house of worship). The recommended alternative (SR-87/I-280) would minimize impacts by utilizing the existing freeway corridors for much of the approach to the station and would move the alignment away from the Greater Gardner neighborhood. "

This phenomenal outcome came about--

--Thanks to the Greater Gardner team that wrote the 55-pages of scoping questions one year ago that brought forward the problems of High Speed Rail through Gardner.

--Thanks to the Greater Gardner community members who attended meeting after meeting and made their positions clear.

--Thanks to Greater Gardner neighborhood groups and leaders for writing the formal letters, meeting with Councilmembers, writing and meeting with State Legislators, Congresspersons and their staff.

--Thanks to the Greater Gardner community members who gave a comprehensive coordinated presentation at May's High Speed Rail Board meeting. They received special acknowledgment from members of the Board as well as newspaper coverage.

--Thanks to the community members who took HSRA staff on tours of the community, who coordinated the meetings at the Gardner center, who left fliers at neighbors' doors, who translated for their neighbors, who brought neighbors in their cars.

--Thanks especially to the Henry Servin--a member of the San Jose Department of Transportation.  He designed the 280-87 alternative.  Send Henry a thank-you note.   Henry.Servin@ sanjoseca. gov

The North Willow Glen, Gardner, and Gregory Plaza neighborhoods will need to remain vigilant about design of the 87-280 alignment and to make sure that no one changes their mind about using the existing railroad right of way.  As with everything in life, nothing is final until it is final. In this case, until the tracks are laid it won't be final. But we can be sure that things are looking better for Greater Gardner than they were!