Cinequest Film Festival starts tomorrow!

One of the highest-rated film festivals in the world will be transforming Downtown San Jose from March 1st to March 13th. 700 artists, innovators, and film-makers will be at the event and overall attendance is expected to top 100,000. Here are some of the highlights to look out for this year:

• Cinequest's Future of Film Showcase
• "My. Invincible" - the world's first film entirely show in Barco Escape, an immersive three screen format where the movie literally wraps around you [Josh: I saw the Maze Runner with this setup and it was a really neat experience].
• Virtual Reality Experiences - there will be a Virtual Reality Lounge where attendees can test out the latest VR film experiences.
• Opening Night Screening and Celebration
• Tomorrow at 7:15pm, Galvin Hood will present his new thriller called "Eye in the Sky" staring Helen Mirren, Alan Rickman, Iain Glen, Barkhad Adbi, and Aaron Paul. The event will be at California Theater and includes both pre and post-show festivities.
• Maverick Spirit Awards
• These award bold, visionary, and creative forces. Previous recipients include J.J. Abrams, Kevin Spacey, Rosario Dawson, Harrison Ford, William H. Macy, Gus Van Sant, Spike Lee, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Sir Ian McKellen, Neil Gaiman, Alec Baldwin, and Sir Ben Kingsley.
• This year's recipients are James Franco, Rita Moreno, and Robert Hawk.
• Notable Premiers and Star Performances (Cinequest features 129 World and US premiers)
• Helen Mirren (The Queen, Trumbo), Alan Rickman (Harry Potter, Die Hard), Iain Glen (Game of Thrones, Downton Abbey), Barkhad Abdi (Captain Phillips), and Aaron Paul (Breaking Bad) in Eye in the Sky (Opening Night)
• Geoffrey Rush (Shine), Ewen Leslie (Sleeping Beauty), Paul Schneider (Lars and the Real Girl), Miranda Otto (The Lord of the Rings), Anna Torv (Fringe), Odessa Young (Wonderland), and Sam Neill (Jurassic Park) in The Daughter (Closing Night)
• Alyson Stoner (Step Up), Bill Engvall (The Bill Engvall Show) in Mr. Invincible
• Kevin Smith (Clerks), Edward Burns (The Brothers McMullen), Ira Sachs (Love Is Strange), and Rob Epstein (Howl) in Film Hawk
• Rita Moreno (West Side Story) in Remember Me
• Gordon Getty (Composer and Subject) in Gordon Getty: There Will Be Music
• Clea Duvall (Argo, American Horror Story) in Heaven’s Floor
• Emma Watson (Harry Potter, The Perks Of Being A Wallflower) and Daniel Bruhl (Inglourious Basterds, Rush) in Colonia
• Jason Ritter (Parenthood) in Embers
• Kiernan Shipka (Mad Men), Emma Roberts (American Horror Story), and Lucy Boynton (Miss Potter) in February
• Annette O’Toole (Smallville) and John Glover (The Good Wife) in We Go On
• Comedians Dana Carvey, Bob Saget, Paula Poundstone, Ellen DeGeneres, Bobcat Goldthwait, Bill Maher, and Robin Williams in The Comedy Club
• Sally Field (Forrest Gump), Max Greenfield (New Girl) and Michael Showalter (Wet Hot American Summer) in Hello, My Name Is Doris
• Daphne Zuniga (Spaceballs), Joely Fisher (Ellen), Michelle Hurd (90210), Natasha Gregson Wagner (Two Girls and a Guy), Nick Court (The Last Ship), Barry Watson (7th Heaven), Jonathan Slavin (Better Off Ted), Devon Graye (Dexter), and singing legend Connie Stevens in Search Engines
• Grant Rosenmeyer (The Royal Tenenbaums) and Lindsey Shaw (Pretty Little Liars) in Temps
• Aly Michalka (iZombie), AJ Michalka (The Goldbergs), and Mimi Rogers (Austin Powers) in Weepah Way for Now
• James Franco (127 Hours), Ed Harris (Pollack), Amber Heard (The Danish Girl), Jim Parrack (True Blood), Cynthia Nixon (Sex and the City), and Christian Slater (Mr. Robot) in The Adderall Diaries
• Matthew Modine (Full Metal Jacket, Fluke) producer on The Brainwashing of My Dad
• Penelope Cruz (Volver) in Ma Ma
• Christopher Walken (The Deer Hunter, Hairspray) and Amber Heard (The Danish Girl, Hidden Palms) in One More Time
• Terence Davies (The Deep Blue Sea, The House of Mirth) director of Sunset Song
• Briana Evigan (Step Up 2: The Streets), Tyler Blackburn (Pretty Little Liars), Emily Osment (Cyberbully), Kyla Kennedy (The Walking Dead), Ana Ortiz (Ugly Betty), Elisabeth Röhm (The Client List), and Jeremy Sisto (Suburgatory) in Love Is All You Need?
• Jeff Bridges (The Big Lebowski), Rachel McAdams (Spotlight), Paul Rudd (Ant-Man), Marion Cotillard (Inception), James Franco (127 Hours), Ricky Gervais (The Office), Paul Giamatti (Straight Outta Compton), Bud Cort (Pollack), Benicio Del Toro (Guardians of the Galaxy), and Albert Brooks (Finding Nemo) in The Little Prince
• Briana Evigan (Step Up 2: The Streets) and Kerry Norton (Battlestar Galactica) in ToY
• Closing Night Screening and Celebration
• At 6pm on March 13th the film festival will culminate with the US premier of Simon Ston'es "The Daughter" featuring Geoffrey Rush, Wewn Leslie, Paul Schneider, Miranda Otto, Anna Torv, Odessa Young, and Sam Neill.

For more information, schedules, and tickets, head over to the Cinequest website.

"The Brainwashing of My Dad" World Premiere - March 5 Cinequest Film Festival, San Jose, CA

THE BRAINWASHING OF MY DAD - Trailer from Jen Senko on Vimeo.

The widely anticipated political documentary feature film The Brainwashing of My Dad will enjoy its World Premiere at the prestigious Cinequest Film Festival on Saturday March 5, 2016 at 7:00 PM at Camera 12 Cinemas, 201 S. 2nd St., San Jose.

Filmmaker Jen Senko examines the rise of right-wing media through the lens of her father, whose immersion in it radicalized him and rocked the foundation of their family. She discovers this political phenomenon recurring in living rooms everywhere, and reveals the consequences conservative media has had on families and a nation.

Says Senko, "What I mean by brainwashing is that people like my dad have become so taken over by right-wing media and its disinformation campaign, that they speak, vote and even act against their own interests - even against the very core of who they are. It is my hope that by lifting the curtain on what the right-wing media is doing to the very fabric of our country, by shedding light on both its tactics and agenda, families and the nation can begin to heal."

Beyond the emotional impact of the film, Senko historically underpins The Brainwashing of My Dad with exceptional expert interviews with Noam Chomsky, Eric Boehlert, David Brock, Jeff Cohen, George Lackoff, Reese Schonfeld and others. Acclaimed actor Matthew Modine (“Full Metal Jacket”) narrates, and Academy Award nominee Bill Plympton, with Maryam Hajouni, provides special animated sequences.

The Brainwashing of My Dad, from JSenko Productions and Cinco Dedos Peliculas, is the recipient of two distinguished film grants by Roy W. Dean and the Bertha Foundation. The film’s non-profit fiscal sponsor is Women Make Movies.

The feature length film touches such a nerve it has already won the Award of Excellence from IMPACT DOCS, and Cinequest is hosting two additional screenings, Sunday, March 6 at 11:30 AM and Wednesday, March 9 at 4:30 PM.

Please visit The Brainwashing of My Dad website at www.thebrainwashingofmydad.com

Project HEAL - Rock Out for Recovery benefit concert

Instead of having an 18th birthday party, a Santa Teresa High School student named Kristen Pizzo is throwing a benefit concert to raise funding for Project HEAL. This non-profit helps to provide eating disorder treatments for those that cannot afford them, while also promoting healthy body image and self esteem.

The benefit concert will feature several local local bands and take place at the San Jose Woman's Club at 75 South 11th Street on March 12th from 6pm-10pm. You can get tickets at Eventbrite.com for $16 or at the door for a $25 donation. For more information, please check out the press release below.

The Project HEAL San Jose stages a benefit concert for individuals in need of eating disorder treatment

San Jose, CA- The San Jose chapter of the non-profit organization, The Project HEAL ( Help to Eat, Accept, and Live ) will hold its second annual benefit concert, Rock Out for Recovery, on March 12, 2015 from 6-10pm at the San Jose Woman's Club, 75 South 11th Street, San Jose CA 95112. The concert will feature Letter High, Telephono, and Tony Geravesh (singer of Stickup Kid) of San Jose, and End the Fight of Sacramento.

The Project HEAL not only raises money for those who cannot afford eating disorder treatment, but also promotes healthy body image and self esteem, and serves as a testament that full recovery from an eating disorder is possible. It was founded in New York in 2008 by Liana Rosenman and Kristina Saffran.  The organization now has over 40 chapters across the United States, Canada, and Australia. Since its founding, Project HEAL has been able to send 41 individuals,  both male and female, to treatment with the grant program. The San Jose chapter was founded in 2013 by Santa Teresa High School student Kristen Pizzo, who completed treatment for anorexia nervosa in 2012. She hopes to raise enough money at the event to cover one treatment scholarship.

Tickets can be bought at the door for a donation of $25 or on Eventbrite.com for $10-20 (Search 'Rock Out for Recovery'). Donations will also be accepted on the ticket page if you would like to contribute but are unable to attend the concert.  If you have any questions, please email sanjose@theprojectheal.org. For more information on the organization, visit www.theprojectheal.org.

Films shot in San Jose

As San Jose's Cinequest Film Festival approaches, now might be a good time to look at some of the mainstream movies that were shot in San Jose. These include Ed TV, Flubber, Mad City, Marnie, The Rookie, and Beverly Hills Cop 3. Searchlight San Jose has a recent post on this topic along with trailers and scenes. Have a look for yourselve right over here.

Still from "Flubber" (1997) starring Robin Williams

SJSV Chamber Honors Distinguished Business Leaders

The San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce is a 131-year-old organization with a mission to create a strong local economy and vibrant business community. Last night they honored several local business leaders during their annual membership dinner. The sold-out event was filled with Silicon Valley politicians, executives, and power players.

Matthew Mahood, the Chamber's President and CEO, reinforced the organization's commitment to economic development, protecting jobs, and regional success during this address to the guests. He also mentioned some interesting tidbits such as making a "Made in Silicon Valley" brand for local manufacturing, creating a "smart building" zone, and putting together a group called "San Joseans for Jobs" to protect the local business climate by minimizing taxes and unnecessary regulations (that last one got a vigorous a round of applause).

Given 2016 is a big election year, you can also expect the Chamber to be very active in political races and supporting candidates that are aligned with regional economic objectives. A strong economy benefits just about everyone--I know I'll be paying extra attention to their recommendations this year.

Below you can find a press release about the event, and you can learn more details about each of the winners at the SJSV Chamber website over here.

Nonprofit of the Year: Downtown Streets Team
Photo courtesy of the SJSV Chamber of Commerce

Business Advocate of the Year: Ru Weerakoon
Photo courtesy of the SJSV Chamber of Commerce

SJSV Chamber Honors Distinguished Business Leaders

San Jose, Calif.— The San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 2016 Distinguished Business Awards and Business Hall of Fame inductees, who will be recognized at its Annual Membership Dinner on Thursday, Feb. 25, at the DoubleTree by Hilton San Jose.

Now in its fifth year, the Distinguished Business Awards aim at honoring those business leaders from within the SJSV Chamber’s 1,400-member organization. There are eight award categories that honored annually and their peers nominate all but the Business Hall of Fame inductees.

The highest honor of the night, the Distinguished Business Leader Award, is given to an individual who has demonstrated long-term excellence in both business and civic engagement. Nominees should have demonstrated leadership and continuous service to the greater Silicon Valley region through the promotion of business, civic engagement, community promotion, philanthropic support and quality of life enhancements.

This year’s Distinguished Business Leaders are Mike and Mary Ellen Fox from M.E. Fox & Company, Inc. Nominators highlighted the Fox’s steadfast commitment to their community throughout their many years in business.

“It is a genuine pleasure to be able to honor our business leaders in front of their peers every year. These are businesses and individuals that work day in and out to ensure that their businesses are successful, create jobs for our residents and help create a great community where we all live, work and play.” –Matthew Mahood, SJSV Chamber President & CEO

2016 Award recipients:

• Distinguished Business Leaders: Mike and Mary Ellen Fox, M.E. Fox & Company, Inc.
• Business Woman of the Year: Claudia Folzman, Iron Construction
• Business Man of the Year: Mark Tersini, KT Urban
• Small Business of the Year: 360 Payment Solutions
• Business Advocate of the Year: Ru Weerakoon
• Nonprofit of the Year: Downtown Streets Team
• Volunteer of the Year: Casey Quisol

Business Hall of Fame inductees:

• Guglielmo Winery – Founded 1925
• Westin San Jose – Founded 1926
• Kaiser Permanente – Founded 1944
• KBM Workspace – Founded 1946
• Tech CU – Founded 1960
• Good Samaritan Hospital – Founded 1966 

About the San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce
The San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit business association representing nearly 1,400 employers and 250,000 employees throughout the greater Silicon Valley. Its mission is to create a strong local economy, provide premier business connections and visibility, represent the interests of business to government, promote the community and initiate political and community action.

Westfield Oakridge Winter Walk & Senior Resource Fair

The 9th Annual Westfield Oakridge Winter Walk takes place tomorrow from 8:30am to 10:30am. Staff from Districts 10, 9, and 2 have worked together to create a resource fair with over 50 vendors targeted towards San Jose's senior citizen community. The vendors include activity clubs, health and wellness providers, and services offered by the City of San Jose and Santa Clara County. The walk takes place inside of the mall and guests will receive one door prize drawing tickets at the end of each lap.

The event is completely free and also includes breakfast. However, you have to be at least 50 years old to participate.

Two new coworking spaces coming to San Jose

Not one, but two new coworking spaces are coming to San Jose! Coworking allows entrepreneurs and small companies to lease a small amount of space in a shared office space with access to resources needed to run a business. Some come with cool perks like free popcorn and happy hours. However, what is really important to us is that these coworking establishments bring entrepreneurial talent into the San Jose ecosystem, where companies will hopefully decide to stay as they grow.

Downtown San Jose currently has two coworking offices that I'm aware of, NextSpace and Pacific Workplaces. The two new ones coming in though are quite a bit larger and will add a combined 105,000 SQFT of coworking space into the mix.

WeWork is the market leader of the coworking world. They are worth over $15 billion and have dozens of offices around the world. They are grabbing 75,000 SQFT across four whole floors at 75 E. Santa Clara Street. This is the same complex where the San Jose Mercury News is located. The building also happens to be just a few blocks away from the new San Jose Patent Office, a very nice luxury few entrepreneurs across the US can claim. WeWork is also going to put a sign on top of the high-rise and paint one side to bring the building to life with cool imagery.

Regus is bringing 30,000 SQFT of co-working to Tisch Tower, a 12-story building behind Santana Row. This will be the first west coast launch of Regus' "Spaces" concept, which is targeted at creatives and startups. Once those startups grow up, there will be plenty of room available in the area since Santana Row is planning to add at least 500,000 SQFT of office space.

Creating more collaborative office spaces that attract entrepreneurs could only help both our economy and reputation as an innovation leader.

Source: SVBJ, SVBJ (2)

Sprouts and Ross will anchor a new North San Jose retail center

The San Jose area in most need of extra retail options and grocers would be in the north. Not only is that where most of are jobs are, but housing has exploded in North San Jose over that past decade. Fortunately, a new retail center called Brokaw Plaza is being built at the corner of Brokaw and Oakland Road and they announced two of their anchor stores earlier this month: Sprouts and Ross.

Sprouts Farmer's Market will take about 30,000 SQFT and is a solid options for fresh groceries. Ross will grab 25,000 SQFT and be one of the few clothing stores in the area. Both will help create a more convenient ecosystem for those that either live or work in the rapidly growing area.

In addition to those two anchors, Brokaw Plaza will have another 90,000 SQFT of retail when it is fully built out. There is no official ETA yet on when the first anchor will open.

Source: The Merc

San Jose will be first major California city to get High Speed Rail!

San Jose has just scored a major infrastructure win that should provide a nice economic boost next decade. California High Speed Rail officials have decided to build the first segment of its 220 mph rail line between the Central Valley and San Jose.

The original plan going back to 2012 was to initiate high-speed service between the Central Valley and Burbank. However, that southern segment requires expensive tunneling through mountains and drew major opposition from a small number of NIMBY cattle farmers. LA's loss is our gain, as the plan is now to bring High Speed Rail to Downtown San Jose by 2025.

The new service will put some serious pressure on increasing jobs in Downtown San Jose as it will dramatically open up our job market. Madera will now only be 40 minutes away by train from Downtown, previously a two to three hour drive. That is a feasible commute to the tech job capital of the world, while not clogging up our freeways. A home in Madera costs about $250k, which also opens up new affordable housing options for those that want to work in San Jose but can't afford to live here. This is a big win for local companies that are hungry for talent and contribute more to the local economy (financially) than most residents. Considering it is much more likely that people will be commuting in for jobs than the other way around, this will help correct the jobs and housing imbalance that San Jose currently faces and negatively impacts the city's financial position.

BART is also scheduled to come Downtown around 2025, making Diridon in Downtown San Jose the most connected transit station on the West Coast. Over 600 trains could be stopping at the station each day after all of these projects are completed.

Construction has already started on California High Speed Rail last summer in Fresno. Ridership is expected to be between 2.2 million and 4.1 million riders when the San Jose service begins in 2025.

Source: SVBJ

Playful People presents: Disney's Mulan Jr. and Cinderella Kids

Playful People Productions Presents:
Disney Mulan JR

Disney Mulan JR will take you back to the legendary, storytelling days of ancient China with the action-packed, stage adaptation of Disney’s film.

The Huns have invaded, and it is up to the misfit Mulan and her mischievous sidekick Mushu to save the Emperor! Disney’s Mulan Jr. is a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor, and the fighting spirit. Mulan, a young woman who breaks tradition and pretends to be a man, learns a valuable lesson against all odds while teaching her family the importance of determination and balance. It’s a show that features music and dancing that will captivate audience members with a message that will inspire children of all ages!

Our shows often sell out prior to the show weekend. Be sure to buy your tickets early, you won’t want to miss out on this fantastic production.

All Shows at the Historic Hoover Theatre, 1635 Park Ave  San Jose, CA 95126

Show Times:
Friday, February 26th - 7:00pm
Saturday, February 27th - 11:00am. 3:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, February 28th - 11:00am, and 3:00pm


Tickets available at www.playfulpeople.net
$12 attendees 12 and up, $8 children 11 and under,  and $6 Children’s floor seating

Tickets at the door (30 minutes prior to curtain)
$15 attendees 12 and up, $10 children 11 and under, and $6 Children’s floor seating

For questions: barb@galiotto.com

Playful People Productions Presents:
Disney Cinderella KIDS

The timeless fairy tale of Cinderella meets the magic of Disney in this adaptation of the treasured animated film.  Poor Cinderella is endlessly mistreated by her wicked Stepmother and Stepsisters, and denied the chance to go to the Royal Ball.  With a little help from her mice friends, and a lot of help from her Fairy Godmother, Cinderella goes to the ball, and discovers that dreams really can come true!

Our shows often sell out prior to the show weekend. Be sure to buy your tickets early, you won’t want to miss out on this fantastic production.

All Shows at the Historic Hoover Theatre, 1635 Park Ave  San Jose, CA 95126

Show Times:
Friday, March 4th - 7:00pm
Saturday, March 5th - 11:00am, 3:00pm and 7:00pm
Sunday, March 6th - 11:00am, and 3:00pm


Tickets available at www.playfulpeople.net
$12 attendees 12 and up, $8 children 11 and under,  and $6 Children’s floor seating

Tickets at the door (30 minutes prior to curtain)
$15 attendees 12 and up, $10 children 11 and under, and $6 Children’s floor seating

For questions: barb@galiotto.com

Founded in 2010, Playful People Production’s mission is to provide a quality, caring environment where children, teens and their families can have positive theater experiences. We strive to involve all family members in the many aspects of on stage and backstage theater in a safe and fun environment and offer participation in theatrical productions, classes, summer stock and camps for ages 3-93.

Playful People Productions is run by a mother-daughter team, Barbara Galiotto and Katie D’ Arcey, who between them have approximately 50 years of experience in the musical theater world. Both are Positive Discipline trained and worked as early Childhood Educators as well as in the theater.

Josh Marcotte featured in the latest issue of Content Magazine

Lost San Jose creator Josh Marcotte has a great feature in the latest edition of San Jose's best magazine, Content. The article focuses on his Monterey Highway project, showcasing a grittier side of our city. To subscribe to Content and access this article along with many others, just head over here.

San Jose Getaway

Mark Haney from Think Bigger San Jose found a great article that highlights San Jose as a nice getaway destination. You don't see too many of these unfortunately. The Press Democrat article highlights various areas of Downtown San Jose, local museums, cultural institutions, and Santana Row. Read it over here and then forward it to any visitors coming into town!

Cellista performs Messiaen's "The End of Time" at Anno Domini Gallery on Feb 20, March 12, 13

San Jose cellist and musical entrepreneur Freya Seeburger, also known as Cellista, will be performing Olivier Messiaen's "Quartet For the End of Time," on February 20, March 12 and March 13 at Anno Domini Gallery in San Jose. This unique musical presentation is part of an installation she created with visual artist Barron Storey, illustrator of Neil Gaiman's Sandman Chronicles, that will be on display at Anno Domini starting February 5. 

Storey's artwork was created in response to Messiaen's famous quartet, which was composed and performed in a Nazi prisoner of war camp in 1941. Cellista and the Juxtapositions Chamber Ensemble will be performing the quartet nearly 75 years to the day of its premiere in Germany. Tickets to the February 20, March 12 and March 13 shows are available online at artful.ly/theendoftime. The February 5 art opening is free to the public; Cellista will be reading an introduction to "The End of Time" that explains its historical significance and relevance to San Jose. 

San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce announces unprecedented partnership with SJSU Career Center

San Jose State University's Career Center has been able to offer more job opportunities to SJSU students thanks to a new partnership with The San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is playing matchmaker and helping local companies access the newest talent coming into the Silicon Valley labor pool. The benefits work both ways as 300 new organizations have been attracted to the Chamber of Commerce over the past three months because of the new partnership. It's a win-win situation that will benefit both students and employers in the Valley. For all the details check out the press release below.

San Jose, Calif.—In a continued effort to grow the local and regional economy, the San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce has partnered with San Jose State University’s Career Center to create an opportunity for employers to find qualified candidates for open positions.

The partnership, a first of its kind, offers Silicon Valley businesses direct access to industry/academic partnerships, recruitment opportunities, and affordable talent acquisition services to help develop their first internship program or to fill open employment opportunities. SJSV Chamber members also gain discounted access to staffing and recruiting services by the SJSU Career Center via the only known university staffing agency in the U.S.: SJSU Spartan Staffing.

The SJSV Chamber and SJSU deploy a cross referral process upon registering with each organization, connecting businesses, non-profits, and government entities directly to each institution.


“As the region’s largest business organization, it is vital that we provide our members and the greater business community with the connections, information, resources and tools they need to be successful.  The San Jose State Career Center is the perfect partnership for us creating a direct pipeline between the business community and the talent pool that keeps our economy thriving.”
- Matthew R. Mahood, San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce President & CEO


After the first three months, this partnership has attracted and referred more than 300 organizations to the Chamber, allowing members the opportunity to sustain and grow their business by hiring an intern, part-time or full-time candidate through SJSU.

As a result of the partnership, SJSU has connected approximately 250 Silicon Valley organizations to services and resources to assist them in filling internships and jobs in technology, business, government, education, architecture and design, nonprofit, and various other sectors.


“As the leading supplier of talent to Silicon Valley, and a global access point for companies around the world, we understand the importance of industry collaboration. Our students and alumni provide the practical intelligence and entrepreneurial attitude that continues to make Silicon Valley a global hub of innovation. We are proud of our partnership with the San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce; it’s a natural fit for us. Providing organization cross-referrals, recruitment and staffing solutions, while collaborating with local community initiatives are creative systems that will serve our student, employer, and community needs.” 
-        Dr. Reginald S. Blaylock, Vice President for Student Affairs, San José State University


SJSU refers jobs and internships to the SJSV Chamber for the Opportunity Youth Partnership and San Jose Works Initiatives; SJSU has referred 10,000+ jobs and internships in the past six months.

About the San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce
The San Jose Silicon Valley Chamber of Commerce is a nonprofit business association representing nearly 1,500 employers and 250,000 employees throughout the greater Silicon Valley. Its mission is to create a strong local economy, provide premier business connections and visibility, represent the interests of business to government, promote the community and initiate political and community action.

About San Jose State University
The founding campus of the 23-campus California State University system, San Jose State provides a comprehensive university education, granting bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in 134 areas of study with 110 concentrations – offered through its eight colleges.

With more than 33,000 students and nearly 4,370 employees, San Jose State continues to be an essential partner in the economic, cultural and social development of Silicon Valley and the state, annually contributing more than 7,000 graduates to the workforce.

The university is immensely proud of the accomplishments of its more than 220,000 alumni, 60 percent of whom live and work in the Bay Area.

El Camino Hospital nabs land in South San Jose

El Camino Hospital just paid $23.4 million for a 16-acre lot on Santa Teresa Boulevard. The speculation for a lot that size is that El Camino might be interested in building their third hospital on this site (they already have full-service hospitals in Mountain View and Los Gatos). The amount of land is far more than what is needed for just medical offices, and South San Jose has enough population to support another hospital in the area--especially with more housing going up at the old IBM campus.

El Camino has been hesitant to announce any concrete plans and has indicated that we shouldn't expect anything to happen soon. I'm hoping they don't sit on the land for too long. If built the project would not bring in any new tax dollars since it would be exempt, but a hospital in the area would improve services for local residents, bring more jobs, and likely increase housing values in the area.

Source: SVBJ

Sourisseau News: February 2016

The latest edition of Sourisseau News discusses San Jose fires. In addition to some pretty spectacular photos, learn about early San Jose fire protection, firefighters, and fire houses. There is even a plug at the end for the San Jose Fire Museum that is coming soon to Downtown San Jose. It is only a two minute video and is well worth your time!


Sourisseau News February2016 from WMS media Inc. on Vimeo.

Huge development project proposed at former Garden City Casino site in West San Jose

When Garden City Casino moved their operations to M8trix, it left a huge land redevelopment opportunity behind. Now two developers are planning to build a mixed-use center on the 15-acre lot. The project would have around 300,000 SQFT of office, 870 apartment units, 15,000 SQFT of retail, and a 1.5-acre park. It would be the largest project built in West San Jose in a very long time.

Since San Jose has such a large imbalance of housing and jobs, I'm glad it sounds like a balanced proposal where the office side of the equation is not an afterthought. It would be nice to have a bit more retail included, especially since the project fronts Saratoga Avenue.

One unfortunate casualty would be Harry's Hofbrau, which has become a craft beer hotspot in recent years. The restaurant has been there for 36 years. At least they would look to either relocate in the neighborhood or use some of that new retail space after the project is complete.

It should take less than a year for project approvals to go through and construction is expected shortly thereafter.

Source: SVBJ

Santana Row News and Events - February through May 2016

San Jose, CA - Sure signs of spring are popping up Santana Row is ready with a full roster of events beginning with special restaurant offerings on Valentine’s Day and the return of two of Silicon Valley’s signature events: the wine stroll to benefit the American Heart Association and the 408k Race to The Row, an 8k run to benefit the Pat Tillman Foundation.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day on The Row
Brunch, lunch or dinner for two…or more!
Sunday, Feb. 14

Enjoy an intimate dinner, or one with friends and family, to celebrate the day for love. Among the restaurants offering special menus:
LB Steak is serving its regular brunch, lunch and dinner menus plus à la carte dinner specials in the spirit of the occasion. Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Menu includes:

• Hudson Valley foie gras ($24) with strawberry compote and warm brioche toast
• Tuna tartare ($19) with yellowfin tuna, Asian pear, mint, sesame oil, pine nuts, and harissa
• Prime Angus filet of Beef Oscar ($52) with Dungeness crab, asparagus and hollandaise sauce
• Valrhona chocolate fondue with cherry liquor ($12) with strawberries, biscotti and macaroons

All prices exclude tax and gratuity. Every couple dining at the restaurant for dinner will receive a complimentary rose.
Left Bank Brasserie serves its regular brunch, lunch and dinner menus plus à la carte dinner specials in the spirit of the occasion and a rose for every dining couple:

• Heart-shaped lobster, scallop and shrimp ravioli ($14) with roasted squash, spinach and cauliflower
• Foie gras mousse terrine ($18) with compressed honey pear, and mixed berry compote
•  Roasted filet of beef ($36) with Madeira sauce, gratin potato and asparagus
• Chocolate Pyramid ($12), a chocolate cake with dark chocolate mousse, raspberry filling and gold flakes.
• Taittinger, Brut La Francaise, Champagne, France NV will be offered for $18 a glass and $90 a bottle.

Maggiano’s Little Italy - Celebrate Valentine's Day the Maggiano's Way from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Mommy & Me Valentine's brunch. Bring your appetites, creativity and Daddy too! Maggiano's serves a breakfast buffet with cookie and craft stations to make your own cards and gifts. There’s also a Polaroid photo booth, and more. Each $35 ticket includes one child and two adults.
Pasta Pomodoro – A prix fixe menu for two is offered on Valentine’s Day (and Friday and Saturday, too) for $60 and includes:

• A glass of wine
• An appetizer to share, either sauteed shrimp or caprese
• Entrée choice of Salmon Piccata, Chicken Marsala or shrimp and asparagus pasta
• A choice of dessert from the menu

Roots and Rye – A Special Sweethearts Valentine’s menu is offered. Check the website, www.rootsandrye.com, for details.
Sino and Straits restaurants - Special Valentine's Day menu is offered. Check the website, www.straitsrestaurants.com, for details.

Santana Row Wine Stroll: A benefit for the American Heart Association
Thursday, Feb. 18, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
An annual event at The Row, come out for winter fun and support a well-known cause!
Your $40 Ticket includes:

• Wine & Light Bites
• Exclusive Discounts Inside Santana Row Shops & Restaurants
• Signature Santana Row Wine Glass

* Must be 21 years or older to attend.
Tickets will be available online and inside the Santana Row Concierge Center. For more information please contact the Santana Row Concierge, 408.551.4611.

March and beyond…

5th Annual 408k “Race to the Row” 8k Run
Sunday, March 6
Join us for the San Jose 408k "Race to the Row,” an 8k run/walk that starts in downtown San Jose and finishes at Santana Row.
This fun, point-to-point course features the famous “Mariachi Mile,” that takes participants through some of San Jose’s most charming neighborhoods, including The Alameda business district and the historic Rose Garden, before an exciting finish on The Row! Stay and enjoy the post-race celebration that includes live music, watch the adorable 408kids Race and grab brunch before catching a quick ride back to the start.
Click here to Register for this event.
For registered runners, the “packet pick up” will be held in Santana Row on Friday, March 4 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturday, March 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The San Jose 408k is designating the Pat Tillman Foundation as its official charity for the fifth year. The foundation invests in military veterans and their spouses through academic scholarships.

Hippity-Hop! Have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny at Santana Row!
Sunday, March 20, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Hop on over and pose with the season’s favorite rabbit at Santana Row Park, across from Left Bank Brasserie. Photos, cookie decorating, face painting and egg decorating will be offered, with all proceeds benefiting the Autism Diagnostic & Consulting Center.

Cars & Croissants Kick-Off Event
Monthly gathering returns in March!
Saturday, March 26, 9 a.m. to noon
Santana Row again partners with 100 OCT to present Cars & Croissants on The Row, a monthly gathering for exotic car owners and car enthusiasts. On the fourth Saturday of the month from March through December, exotic car owners are invited to park on Santana Row Boulevard from Alyssum Lane to Tatum Boulevard, display their cars and mingle with other enthusiasts. The morning meet-up for coffee, croissants and cars drew 400 people and 60 cars during the first event and continues to grow in popularity. This event is free and open to the public.

Cars & Croissants
Saturday, April 23, 9 a.m. to noon
Santana Row again partners with 100 OCT to present Cars & Croissants on The Row, a monthly gathering for exotic car owners and car enthusiasts. On the fourth Saturday of the month from March through December, exotic car owners are invited to park on Santana Row Boulevard from Alyssum Lane to Tatum Boulevard, display their cars and mingle with other enthusiasts. The morning meet-up for coffee, croissants and cars drew 400 people and 60 cars during the first event and continues to grow in popularity. This event is free and open to the public.

San Jose Dancin’ Downtown Festival, Santana Row Park
Sunday, April 24, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Santana Row and sjDANCEco has partnered again this year to bring together local as well as regional dance artists to celebrate National Dance Week. The free outdoor festival features the diversity of the area’s dance community.
Enjoy performances by sjDANCEco (Maria Basile, Gabriel Mata), Diablo Ballet, Pointe of Departure, Erin East, Visual Rhythm and Zohar Dance Company.

lululemon Presents Yoga in the Park, May 7, 14, 21 and 28
Every Saturday through September, 9 a.m. Santana Row Park
Free Yoga on Saturdays, presented by lululemon athletica begins May7 and is held every Saturday through September, taking advantage of the best weather seasons!
Practice your sun salutations under the sunshine every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. at Santana Row Park while Park Valencia is under renovation. The complimentary classes are held outdoors, with registration opening at 8:30 a.m. each week. For more information, contact lululemon, 408.557.8721.

Mommy & Me and Daddies, Too, season kick-off event
May 10, 10 a.m. to noon, Santana Row Park
The popular kids’ club returns for the season with free entertainment, interactive games, crafts and educational activities designed for parents and their pre-school aged children. Special guest for the event is Buddy from Dinosaur Train. Families can also enjoy arts and crafts, face painting, music, balloon art, story time and more.
Details: 10 a.m. to noon at Santana Row Park while Park Valencia is under renovation. Mommy & Me is a free kids’ club held on the second Tuesday of every month from May through December. For more information, call 408.551.4611 or visit www.SantanaRow.com.

Cars & Croissants
Saturday, May 28, 9 a.m. to noon
Santana Row again partners with 100 OCT to present Cars & Croissants on The Row, a monthly gathering for exotic car owners and car enthusiasts. On the fourth Saturday of the month from March through December, exotic car owners are invited to park on Santana Row Boulevard from Alyssum Lane to Tatum Boulevard, display their cars and mingle with other enthusiasts. The morning meet-up for coffee, croissants and cars drew 400 people and 60 cars during the first event and continues to grow in popularity. This event is free and open to the public.

Rainy Day Rewards, through March 31, 2016
Here’s hoping the rainy season returns! Santana Row is optimistic and wants to reward shoppers and diners braving bad weather. When there’s a 70 percent or greater chance for rain, they will be offered discounts that include 15 percent off purchases at participating shops and restaurants, a free signature Santana Row golf umbrella for customers who spend $150 anywhere on The Row and a $20 gift certificate to a participating shop or restaurant for customers who spend $300 on a designated Rainy Day.
No need to get wet: Customers can pick up a complimentary umbrella to use while shopping and dining and then return it before leaving. The yellow umbrellas are conveniently located throughout The Row: outside Concierge, Via between Village California Bistro and Lark Creek Blue and the valet parking lot in the Winchester Parking Garage.

Twitter Promotion @SantanaRow invites Tweets and Instagram tags
For a Chance to Win Gift Cards to Restaurants at The Row
Santana Row’s Twitter campaign and photo contest continues through the @SantanaRow Twitter handle. The contest invites anyone at Santana Row to Tweet or Instagram photos of a new outfit, haircut, meal, event or artsy shots and then tag it with the hash tag #LifeonTheRow. Every month, Santana Row will post an album on Facebook with all of the photos with the #LifeonTheRow hash tag. The person who took the best or most original photo will win a gift card to a Santana Row restaurant.

San Jose will host the 2016 MLS All-Star game

On July 28th, the MLS All-Stars will take on Arsenal FC at Avaya Stadium. Arsenal's draw is huge--people from around the world will be coming to see the team play. The best part is that the event will bring a whole week's worth of events that include parties at San Pedro Square to celebrate soccer and the MLS. It is expected to be a significant economic driver for San Jose.

This will be the Arsenal's first visit to play in the Bay Area. For more information hit the source link below.

Source: MLS

Feathers of Fury 6: A Valentine's Day pillow fight in Downtown San Jose

The 6th annual Downtown San Jose pillow fight is happening this Sunday on Valentine's Day! Nothing says I love you to your sweetie like a swift pillow attack. The event starts at high noon, but the location remains a secret until the day before the event. To give you some idea of where it might be, here is a list of previous locations:

2011 - Cesar Chavez Park

2012 - SJ City Hall

2013 - Circle of Palms 

2014 - SJ Rep

2015 - Camera 12 

2016 - ??????????????

More specifics as well as the rules of the event are below. To be the first to learn where the secret location is, follow this Facebook Page.

Photo from Content Magazine

PILLOW FIGHT:

HOW: An AIRHORN or WHISTLE or TOWER will signal the beginning of the event. We will proceed to charge a la Braveheart and let the flailing of laughter ensue. How long will it last? Well, that all depends on you.

THE RULES:

-Tell everyone about the Pillow Fight.
-Bring a pillow
-Wait until the whistle/airhorn signal to begin.
-Soft pillows only!
-NEVER swing at people without pillows or with cameras.
-Tell EVERYONE about the Pillow Fight.
-Remove glasses beforehand!
-Don't hit people with a pillow unless they want it.
-Swing lightly, many people will be swinging at once.
-This is not a little kids event.
-If you don't want to participate, go outside the "play" area and you will be respected.
-TELL EVERYONE ABOUT THE PILLOW FIGHT! #Pillowfightsj

(Feathers are fantastic!) But it might be a good idea to wear a bandana to keep yourself from swallowing some Feathers of FURY. AGGGHHH!

Latex gloves and Garbage Bags will be brought out so that we may attempt to leave the park/area just as we found it ... which is impossible cause after we leave it will be AWESOME.

tweet. blog. FB. space. email. morse code. GET IT OUT THERE... #Pillowfightsj

Robots Less Likely to Replace San Jose Jobs

There have been several reports floating around claiming that robots are going to make a large number of jobs obsolete. The unfortunate reality is that those reports are likely correct. However, there is a silver lining.

San Jose will feel less of an impact on the robot uprising than other cities. Why is that? Skilled labor is the least likely to be replaced in the immediate future, and that is exactly where most of San Jose's jobs lie. A secondary, almost ironic reason is that San Jose area companies are most likely to be the ones designing and developing robot hardware and software. In this context, our region might end up becoming one of the largest beneficiaries of these upcoming changes.

Source: SVBJ

Robot at Orchard Supply in San Jose

February 2016 Downtown Dimension Highlights

Here are my notes from the latest edition of Downtown Dimension:

• Super Bowl 50
• 400,000 of the 1 million visitors coming to the Bay Area for the Super Bowl likely visited San Jose.
• Several Groundwerx ambassadors volunteered to staff the information booth at Plaza de Cesar Chavez as well as helping with Downtown Super Bowl activities.
• The special event zone Downtown prohibited peddlers, drones, and people giving out handouts.
• Barry Swenson Builder has begun setting up infrastructure for what will be a 1,100 home development in the North San Pedro area. Part of the project will realign Julian to become a traditional street grid.
• Leasing has begun for 27 North (also known as the Symphony project), a new 119 unit project for student housing. The leasing office is at 96 E. San Fernando.
• UserZoom is a user experience optimization company that has moved from Cupertino to 10 Almaden Downtown.
• Downtown Ice has broken attendance records with over 55,000 skaters by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.
• Cinequest 2016--voted the best film festival by USA Today readers--is coming to Downtown from March 1-13. Over 100,000 attendees are expected.
• The sixth annual San Jose Jazz Winter Fest will run from Feb 25th to March 8th.
• VTA rolled out 29 new 60-foot clean-energy buses that will serve the new Bus Rapid Transit corridor from Santa Clara Street to Eastridge and El Camino Real. The new hybrid buses have WiFi and capacity for six bikes.
• The City Council is discussing building a seven-field soccer complex in Guadalupe River Park off Coleman Avenue. Four fields would be publicly accessible and have lighting for use at night.

To read the newsletter, click here!

SJC Getting Nonstop Flight to Charlotte

While less exciting than an international route, any new nonstop from San Jose to the east coast is a welcome addition. San Jose International Airport received incredible traction in 2015, and this is the first significant news for the new year. American Airlines is adding a seasonal nonstop from San Jose to Charlotte, North Carolina. This also enables easy access to the Caribbean, Raleigh-Durham, and Florida.

Service will begin on June 2nd and continue until August 15th. The flight will use an Airbus A319 and leave from SJC each day at 10:45pm, arriving at 6:40am the next day (it's a red eye). The return flight leaves Charlotte at 6:10pm and arrives back at SJC at 8:40pm.

Source: The Merc

Apple's Big Plans for San Jose

A couple weeks ago the San Jose city council formally and unanimously approved a 15 year development agreement with Apple. This would give the company the ability to build up to 4.15 million SQFT of office space in North San Jose. To put that in perspective, that would be more than all of Apple's Cupertino offices including it's new flagship headquarters. That much real estate could accommodate 16,000 well-paid tech employees.

While there is no guarantee that Apple will fully build out this much space, this agreement opens up a huge door for San Jose. If Apple continues to grow, San Jose will be the obvious partner to fill the need for large amounts of space. Given the very real possibility that Apple may enter the auto industry, the demand for several million square feet of space could become imminent. In fact, Apple is already planning to occupy two projects totaling almost 500,000 SQFT in North San Jose: the former Atmel headquarters (296,000 SQFT) and a 200,000 SQFT office building under construction. Apple could have 1,000 employees in San Jose by the end of the year.

I have a feeling that 2016 will be a great year for getting more large tech companies into San Jose. Apple and Google are paving the way for others to enter the market and join the party.

Source: SVBJ

Super Bowl 50

Enjoy Super Bowl 50 everyone, the first Silicon Valley Super Bowl!

Anime & Video Game Convention Next Weekend

Fanime isn't the only major anime convention in Silicon Valley anymore. AOD (Animation on Display) takes place next weekend and features two days of Japanese animation, video games, cosplay, and other geeky attractions. AOD will be located at the Santa Clara Convention Center with easy access from Light Rail (there is plenty of parking as well).

It's worth noting this event previously took place in San Francisco until 2013. Last year it migrated down to Burlingame, and this year it finally made it to the right region.

You can view a full list of events and exhibits at the AOD website over here.

February 5-6: South FIRST FRIDAYS Art Walk + SoFA Winter Mrkt

South FIRST FRIDAYS has been expanded in honor of the Super Bowl this year. Not only is it a two-day event now, but there will be local vendors and special performances. Multiple venues and art galleries will be participating, as you can see on the handy map below. Most of the festivities will be on South First Street, but I highly recommend exploring other areas as well. If you haven't made a pit stop to Plaza de Cesar Chavez recently then this would also be a great time to swing by.

South FIRST FRIDAYS Art Walk + SoFA Winter Mrkt takes place tonight from 7-11pm and tomorrow from noon to 6pm.

Celebrate the Big Game at Santana Row

San Jose, CA  - Santana Row adds to the Bay Area’s celebration of the Super Bowl at Levi's Stadium with a long weekend of football festivities at Silicon Valley’s Premier Destination. Come join the fun!

The Beer Blitz Presented by Anheuser Busch
Thursday, Feb. 4, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Santana Row kicks off Super Bowl 50 weekend by hosting The Beer Blitz Presented by Anheuser Busch, an evening featuring 10 breweries in eight locations with each stop representing a division of the NFL. (Some locations will have more than one brewery.)

Partnering with The Beerwalk organizers, the Santana Row event includes an evening of unlimited tastings in the participating locations, an official Big Game swag bag from Anheuser Busch and a passport for shopping and dining discounts to stores and restaurants at The Row! Anheuser Busch will have a pop-up shop in Santana Row Park where other activities are also planned.

Tickets: $100 per person and limited in number. Includes:

• Unlimited tastings
• Souvenir pint glass
• Gift bags with Big Game merchandise

Check-in Location and time:
Santana Row Park, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Sponsors:
Budweiser
Bud Light
Shock Top

Featured imported breweries:
Stella Artois
Hoegaarden
Leffe

Featured National Breweries:
Elysian Brewing, Seattle, WA
Golden Road Brewing, Los Angeles, CA
Goose Island, Chicago, IL
10 Barrel Brewing Company, Eugene, OR

Highlighted Local Breweries:
Red Branch Cider Company, Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara Valley Brewing, San Jose, CA
New Bohemia Brewing Co, Santa Cruz, CA
Golden State Brewery, Santa Clara, CA
Speakeasy Ales & Lagers, San Francisco, CA
Anchor Brewing Company, San Francisco, CA

Tasting locations:
Santana Row Park
lululemon athletica
Kit and Ace
Pasta Pomodoro
Rosie McCann's Irish Pub & Restaurant
Orvis
Roots and Rye
Sino restaurant
Straits restaurant

Super Bowl activities at The Row, Thursday, Feb. 4 through Sunday, Feb. 7
One of the Bay Area’s most-talked about destination for food, fun and festivities
is hosting Super Bowl events and offering shuttle service to hotel guests from select hotels and to Levi’s Stadium on game day. More details coming soon!

• Live music in the parks and plazas from Thursday, Feb. 4, 2016 through Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016.
• Complimentary round-trip shuttle service from The Fairmont and Hilton hotels in San Jose are offered on Friday, Feb. 5 and Saturday, Feb. 6. The shuttle service begins at 11 a.m. each day in front of each hotel. The service will run every 45 minutes continuously all day to and from Santana Row, with the last shuttle departing each hotel at approximately 8:45 p.m. The shuttle will drop guests off at Santana Row, which is about five miles away, and guests are picked up at the same location as the drop-off to return to the hotels.  Questions? Contact Santana Row Concierge, 408.55.4611.
• Super Bowl ticket holders can conveniently pick up their tickets in the days leading up to the Big Game. Ticketmaster will be on site at Santana Row, next to Z Gallerie.
• On Super Bowl Sunday, Santana Row will have its ongoing shuttle service to Levi’s Stadium for those going to the game. Shuttles depart at 1 p.m., about two and a half hours before game time (3:15 p.m.) and tickets are $30 for each passenger. See details below.

Super Bowl 50 Viewing Parties and Happy Hour Specials for Super Bowl 50!
Several Santana Row restaurants and bars are inviting football fans to enjoy the Big Game and feast on festive food and drinks:

• Left Bank Brasserie will be showing the game on two large screens in the bar area and has an exclusive happy hour beginning at 3 p.m. Wings, sliders and other nibbles for $6, plus select wines and beers for $5.
• Rosie McCann’s Irish Pub & Restaurant will have a large projector screen in the restaurant as well as smaller TVs in the bar area.
• The Counter will be showing the game and is offering happy hour specials all day, including half off starters, $2 mini burgers, $2 off draft beer, wine, signature cocktails and adult shakes. Wings are six for $6.
• VBar at Hotel Valencia airs the game in the bar area and will have special hours from Thursday, Feb. 4 through Sunday, Feb. 7. Drink specials and a special Super Bowl menu items are offered.
• Vintage Wine Bar won’t be televising the game but is celebrating anyway with all-you-can-drink-champagne (featuring Taittinger, Pommery and Delamotte) for $60 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• LB Steak will have all day happy hour and the Big Game showing on two TVs.

Calling all Super Bowl 50 Ticket Holders!
Take the Round Trip Shuttle to Levi’s Stadium from Santana Row
Avoid the headache of game day traffic! Take the shuttle from The Row to Levi’s Stadium for a hassle-free day that starts with easy parking, shopping and dining perks.
Shuttles leave two hours before game time.
Sunday, Feb. 7, 2016, Super Bowl 50 (departs at 1 p.m. for 3:15 p.m. kickoff)
The shuttle registration begins about 30 minutes before departure time. Registration and shuttles are located near the CineArts Theatre.
Your $30 ticket, which can be purchased in the concierge office or at SantanaRow.com, includes:

• Round trip transportation to Levi’s Stadium
• Free parking at Santana Row
• Santana Row shopping and dining incentives

Details:
When you arrive at Santana Row, park your vehicle in the designated, secured parking lot on Winchester Boulevard in the former Century 21 Theatre area. Walk across Winchester Boulevard to Olsen Drive where the registration table and bus will be waiting to load in front of the theater. The bus departs at the scheduled time (two hours prior to game time), and will not wait for passengers.

Levi’s Stadium drop-off site:
The bus will park at the official shuttle drop-off location at the stadium. One hour after the conclusion of the game, the bus will depart from the same location. Passengers not on bus at the specified departure time, will not receive transportation back to Santana Row.

~~~

About Santana Row
Santana Row, a 647,000 square foot mixed-use development in San Jose, CA, is Silicon Valley’s premier destination for shopping, dining, living and working. Santana Row features over 70 shops, 20 restaurants, a boutique hotel and movie theatre. In addition to the dynamic retail & restaurant collection, Santana Row offers 615 luxury rental homes, 219 privately owned condos and 65,000 square feet of Class A office space. Santana Row is a property of www.federalrealty.com (NYSE:FRT), headquartered in Rockville, Maryland. For more information, please visit www.santanarow.com.

About Federal Realty
Federal Realty is a recognized leader in the ownership, operation and redevelopment of high-quality retail based properties located primarily in major coastal markets from Washington, D.C. to Boston as well as San Francisco and Los Angeles.  Founded in 1962, our mission is to deliver long term, sustainable growth through investing in densely populated, affluent communities where retail demand exceeds supply.  Our expertise includes creating urban, mixed-use neighborhoods like Santana Row in San Jose, California, Pike & Rose in North Bethesda, Maryland and Assembly Row in Somerville, Massachusetts. These unique and vibrant environments that combine shopping, dining, living and working provide a destination experience valued by their respective communities.  Federal Realty’s 90 properties include over 2,600 tenants, in approximately 21 million square feet, and 1500 residential units.
Federal Realty has paid quarterly dividends to its shareholders continuously since its founding in 1962, and has increased its dividend rate for 48 consecutive years, the longest record in the REIT industry. Federal Realty shares are traded on the NYSE under the symbol FRT. For additional information about Federal Realty and its properties, visit www.FederalRealty.com.

Think Bigger San Jose Launches New Site!

One of our favorite San Jose blogs has completely revamped their website. Think Bigger San Jose focuses on exploring Downtown San Jose from an urbanist's perspective. The redesign brings a slick navigation and tons of resources for residents and visitors alike.

Think Bigger San Jose has just posted an in depth guide to visiting Downtown San Jose during the Super Bowl that contains recommended restaurants, craft cocktail joints, events, and links to interactive maps. Check it out over here!

San Jose Convention Center Expansion and Hotel

There was an ill-fated expansion of the San Jose Convention Center planned in the late 90s and early 2000s. Several years after that project failed, a temporary blue-and-white tent went built behind the Convention Center known as South Hall. It is easily one of the ugliest structures Downtown, but serves its purpose as an 80,000 SQFT overflow space for large conventions.

San Jose officials want to take down this monster and build a proper expansion of the center along with a new full-service high-rise hotel. I think we can all agree that would be a big improvement for this space. However, the main complication is that the land is now owned by the Redevelopment Agency's "Successor Agency" and acquisition might be complicated. If San Jose can get rights to the building, it will then cost about a million dollars to tear it down and get the site ready for future development.

Source: The Merc

Super Bowl Festivities in Downtown San Jose

Downtown San Jose is going all out for Super Bowl 50 this week! This isn't just pandering to this big event. The Carolina Panthers are staying at the San Jose Marriott and Super Bowl Opening Night will be hosted at the SAP Center. The heart of San Jose's Super Bowl 50 activities will be in Plaza de Cesar Chavez. They have installed an advanced lighting system synced to live music, a beer garden, multiple game areas, and food trucks. Downtown Ice is still going strong and there is even a NFL store pop-up shop nearby. San Pedro Square has shut down a whole street, added turf, and provided 50 nerf footballs to throw around.

There is a lot going on, and thankfully the city has provided an interactive Super Bowl 50 map for Downtown activities. Check it out over here!