Pretty cool video below featuring the San Jose Fire Department. I'm not sure what the video is promoting, but I like it.
Source: I Heart SJ
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Saturday Stats: Best Cities to Trick or Treat 2013
Zillow's latest rankings of the top cities to Trick-or-Treat in has just came in and San Jose moved up to the #4 spot for 2013! This is up from 5th place last year (we overtook Seattle). San Francisco is yet again in the #1 spot.
The rankings are based on four equally weighted variables: Home Value Index, Population Density, Walk Score, and Local Crime Data.
See the full list below along with the top neighborhoods in San Jose for Trick-or-Treating.
Source: Zillow
The rankings are based on four equally weighted variables: Home Value Index, Population Density, Walk Score, and Local Crime Data.
See the full list below along with the top neighborhoods in San Jose for Trick-or-Treating.
Source: Zillow
Haunt History Park - Happening Today!
For those that want a more family-friendly Halloween experience, check out the event going on today at History San Jose:
~~~
~~~
| |
|
Friday, October 25, 2013
Santana Row Updates
Two more stores are opening at Santana Row that you won't find anywhere else in the area. Scotch & Soda opening their first Silicon Valley store at the row on October 14th and C. Wonder is opening their first Northern California store on November 1st. For more info, check out the press release below. Also note the statistic: Santana Row gets 11 million annual visitors each year! Impressive.
~~~
San Jose, CA – Fresh, exciting and first-in-San Jose retailers have chosen Santana Row as their South Bay home. It’s what’s new and now in the fashion arena with the stores opening just in time for the holiday shopping season.
“A New Generation of Santana Row," is a fitting description for the lineup of new retailers that include coveted specialty store Scotch & Soda, which opened on Oct. 14. The Amsterdam-based brand offers high-quality, rich-in-detail clothing and accessories for men and women.
Opening its first Northern California location on Nov. 1 is C.Wonder, offering a wide assortment of versatile and spirited clothing, jewelry, accessories, housewares, personal electronics and giftware.
They join Madewell, Splendid, Calypso St. Barth and kate spade new york in giving shoppers a choice of nationally-prominent brands in one concentrated location.
“People come here to see what’s new and fresh,” said Collette Navarrette, director of marketing for Santana Row. She notes that the center’s strong foot traffic is directly related to the evolving retail mix. “We keep reinventing the property by bringing first-to-market retailers to San Jose.”
Having celebrated its 10th anniversary last year, Santana Row’s new emphasis is bringing in retailers that offer a fresh perspective to fashion and style. Santana Row continues to evolve with 11 million annual visitors, over 1,500 residents, 2,300 employees and new-to-market retailers; maintaining its fashion-forward and vibrant personality.
About Santana Row
Santana Row a 1.5 million square foot mixed used development in the heart of San Jose, California, is Silicon Valley's premier destination for shopping,
dining, living and nightlife. Surrounded by landscaped gardens, parks and plazas, Santana Row features over 70 retail shops, more than 20 acclaimed restaurants, a 212-room boutique hotel and six-screen movie theatre. In addition to the dynamic retail collection, Santana Row offers 622 residential units featuring a fitness center, rooftop pool and resort-living accommodations, and 65,000 square feet of office space at 300 Santana Row, its newest office address. 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 Investment Trust is an equity real estate investment trust specializing in the ownership, management, and redevelopment of high quality retail real estate in the country’s best markets. As of September 30, 2012, Federal Realty's portfolio (excluding joint venture properties) contained approximately 19.1 million square feet located primarily in strategically selected metropolitan markets in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, and California. In addition, the Trust has an ownership interest in approximately 1.0 million square feet of retail space through a joint venture in which the Trust has a 30% interest. Our operating portfolio (excluding joint venture properties) was 95.1% leased to national, regional, and local retailers as of September 30, 2012, with no single tenant accounting for more than approximately 3.1% of annualized base rent. Federal Realty has paid quarterly dividends to its shareholders continuously since its founding in 1962, and has increased its dividend rate for 45 consecutive years, the longest record in the REIT industry. Federal Realty is an S&P MidCap 400 company and its shares are traded on the NYSE under the symbol FRT. For more information, please visit www.federalrealty.com.
~~~
A New Generation of Santana Row
Fresh, New-to-Market Concepts Emerge and Shake Up the Retail Scene at
Silicon Valley’s Destination Center
San Jose, CA – Fresh, exciting and first-in-San Jose retailers have chosen Santana Row as their South Bay home. It’s what’s new and now in the fashion arena with the stores opening just in time for the holiday shopping season.
“A New Generation of Santana Row," is a fitting description for the lineup of new retailers that include coveted specialty store Scotch & Soda, which opened on Oct. 14. The Amsterdam-based brand offers high-quality, rich-in-detail clothing and accessories for men and women.
Opening its first Northern California location on Nov. 1 is C.Wonder, offering a wide assortment of versatile and spirited clothing, jewelry, accessories, housewares, personal electronics and giftware.
They join Madewell, Splendid, Calypso St. Barth and kate spade new york in giving shoppers a choice of nationally-prominent brands in one concentrated location.
“People come here to see what’s new and fresh,” said Collette Navarrette, director of marketing for Santana Row. She notes that the center’s strong foot traffic is directly related to the evolving retail mix. “We keep reinventing the property by bringing first-to-market retailers to San Jose.”
Having celebrated its 10th anniversary last year, Santana Row’s new emphasis is bringing in retailers that offer a fresh perspective to fashion and style. Santana Row continues to evolve with 11 million annual visitors, over 1,500 residents, 2,300 employees and new-to-market retailers; maintaining its fashion-forward and vibrant personality.
About Santana Row
Santana Row a 1.5 million square foot mixed used development in the heart of San Jose, California, is Silicon Valley's premier destination for shopping,
dining, living and nightlife. Surrounded by landscaped gardens, parks and plazas, Santana Row features over 70 retail shops, more than 20 acclaimed restaurants, a 212-room boutique hotel and six-screen movie theatre. In addition to the dynamic retail collection, Santana Row offers 622 residential units featuring a fitness center, rooftop pool and resort-living accommodations, and 65,000 square feet of office space at 300 Santana Row, its newest office address. 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 Investment Trust is an equity real estate investment trust specializing in the ownership, management, and redevelopment of high quality retail real estate in the country’s best markets. As of September 30, 2012, Federal Realty's portfolio (excluding joint venture properties) contained approximately 19.1 million square feet located primarily in strategically selected metropolitan markets in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, and California. In addition, the Trust has an ownership interest in approximately 1.0 million square feet of retail space through a joint venture in which the Trust has a 30% interest. Our operating portfolio (excluding joint venture properties) was 95.1% leased to national, regional, and local retailers as of September 30, 2012, with no single tenant accounting for more than approximately 3.1% of annualized base rent. Federal Realty has paid quarterly dividends to its shareholders continuously since its founding in 1962, and has increased its dividend rate for 45 consecutive years, the longest record in the REIT industry. Federal Realty is an S&P MidCap 400 company and its shares are traded on the NYSE under the symbol FRT. For more information, please visit www.federalrealty.com.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Special Events & Programming for Star Wars at The Tech Museum
Stellar Programming Unveiled for
Star Wars®: Where Science Meets Imagination
The Tech Museum of Innovation debuts new series of events
SAN JOSE, CA – An out-of-this-world lineup of lectures, workshops, and celebrations at The Tech will run alongside the popular exhibition, Star Wars®: Where Science Meets Imagination, presented by Bose Corporation®.
Beginning Saturday, October 19 through Sunday, February 23, 2014, the museum will host a variety of engaging special events, programs, and workshops that bring the magic of all 6 films alive. Guests will not only discover the science behind lightsabers and create their own flying hovercrafts, they will also explore the futuristic technologies depicted in the films and the real science behind them and the research that might someday lead to real-life versions.
The Tech’s Star Wars programming will include:
Jedi™ Nights presented by ScholarShare College Savings Plan
Special evening celebrations of all things Star Wars! Grab your lightsaber and dress up in your favorite Star Warscostume. Re-create your favorite scenes, meet and take photos with Stormtroopers, R2-D2, and Jedi Knights, or train for the Jedi™ Academy. Tickets for Jedi™ Nights include admission to the exhibition.
Hands-on Science Workshop - Jedi™ Tech
Opening October 5, the science behind Star Wars becomes reality in The Tech’s hands-on workshops. Techsabers – where visitors will tinker with circuitry, LEDs, and various light diffusing and reflecting materials – and Skywalker Writing where guests leverage “the Force” for intergalactic light paintings and control their own hovercrafts. Workshops are free with museum admission.
The Tech Connects
An engaging new program that brings ideas and people together to explore and discuss the different intersections technology make with our world. Guest speakers will look at a range of topics including the phenomenon, visual effects, droids, and women of Star Wars. Lectures fees vary; members get discounted tickets. Tickets go on sale September 10.
“Hidden Universe”
Experience an extraordinary journey into space. Explore the earliest galaxies, travel the terrain of Mars, and peer deep inside the universe’s most mysterious nebulae where stars are born in The Hackworth IMAX® Dome Theater – the largest dome screen in the West at 8-stories high. Extra fee applies to IMAX films
For more information on The Tech’s events, visit:http://www.thetech.org/
Tickets for the exhibition are on sale now. Tickets to the exhibition also includes admission to the regular museum galleries.
Schedule of Programming
Jedi™ Nights presented by ScholarShare College Savings Plan
Thursday, October 31, 2013
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Friday, January 17, 2014
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 1 (for members only)
6:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Hands-on Science Workshop - Jedi™ Tech
Please visit http://www.thetech.org/ for a schedule of workshop times.
The Tech Connects
Star Wars: Film to Phenomenon
Sunday, October 27, 2013, 2:00 p.m.
Steve Sansweet in conversation with Angie Coiro
The Star Wars Model Shop
Sunday, December 15, 2013, 2:00 p.m.
Lorne Peterson in conversation with Angie Coiro
Droids & Tales from the Set
Sunday, January 19, 2014, 2:00 p.m.
Don Bies in conversation with Angie Coiro
The Star Wars Women
Sunday, February 16, 2014, 2:00 p.m.
Kim Smith and Carol Bauman in conversation with Angie Coiro
“Hidden Universe”
Please visit http://www.thetech.org/ for a schedule of film showings.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
San Jose Documentary!
Norman Kline, a local tech executive and entrepreneur, is launching a feature-length documentary about San Jose. He grew up in Downtown San Jose and was always proud of his city. Today he's partnering with CreaTV San Jose and History San Jose to produce what is the first full-length documentary about San Jose (90min).
The focus of the film will be on San Jose's role in Silicon Valley's evolution, but everything from the orchards to the mercury mines will be a part of the documentary.
The release is targeted for Spring 2014. Norman is hoping to premier it at a local theater and then distribute it via PBS and online for free. For more information on the firm, just head over to the Norman Kline Productions website over here.
Source: SVBJ, Norman Kline Productions
The focus of the film will be on San Jose's role in Silicon Valley's evolution, but everything from the orchards to the mercury mines will be a part of the documentary.
The release is targeted for Spring 2014. Norman is hoping to premier it at a local theater and then distribute it via PBS and online for free. For more information on the firm, just head over to the Norman Kline Productions website over here.
Source: SVBJ, Norman Kline Productions
NORMAN KLINE PRODUCTIONS, CREATV AND HISTORY SAN JOSE TO PARTNER
September 9, 2013, San Jose, CA - Agreement has been reached between Norman Kline Productions, Inc., CreaTV San Jose and History San Jose to work in partnership to produce a major documentary on the history of San Jose. Acclaimed producer/director Michael Pierce has been tapped to direct the film based on an original script by Norman Kline.
“There has never been a documentary of San Jose of this scope and we believe it’s about time,” says Mr. Kline, project creator. “San Jose has rich history, amazing canvas of land and weather and the most innovative and creative people on the planet. We need to recognize the positive power and influence of our city and how we got here - with all the ups and downs along the way.”
“CreaTV San Jose is honored to provide the production facilities, staffing and fiscal sponsorship for this project. We look forward to producing an exceptional documentary worthy of our great city,” says Suzanne St. John-Crane, executive director of CreaTV San Jose. The ninety minute documentary will feature authentic archival footage and photography to illustrate San Jose’s past. Alida Bray, president and CEO of History San José, says “It always amazes me how many incredible stories come out of San Jose. You name it, and we have been there or done it. From the first State Capital, to first regular radio broadcast, to development of RAMAC the first magnetic disk drive -- San Jose has historically led the way in creativity and innovation. We can't wait to share these incredible stories with a larger audience!”
The project is possible with the partnership of the two nonprofits and financial backing of the wider community. Funding is being sought from businesses, civic groups and individuals. All contributions will be made directly to CreaTV San Jose and are one hundred percent tax deductible. Any remaining contributions from the production and distribution of the film will be donated to the two major sponsoring nonprofits. “After the premier, the film will be accessible to the public for free,” says Mr. Kline. “We want this to be educational for all San Joseans - something real to unite us.”
About CreaTV San Jose
Founded in 2007, CreaTV San Jose is a member-based, non-profit community media center that helps the residents, businesses, schools and organizations in San Jose to effectively communicate their message to a broader audience using our public and education television and Internet channels. CreaTV fulfills its mission to inspire, educate and connect San Jose communities, using media to foster civic engagement, by providing the free airtime and the low-cost training and tools that allow diverse and often under-served communities to tell their stories and express their views through video.
About History San José
History San José is a non-profit organization that collects, preserves and celebrates the stories of the diversity and innovation in San Jose and Santa Clara Valley. HSJ manages one of the largest and most comprehensive regional history collections in the State of California, from 1784 Spanish government records to twenty-first century Silicon Valley technology.
About Norman Kline Productions
Norman Kline Productions, Inc. is a startup film production studio specializing in historical documentaries of Silicon Valley. Norman Kline is a businessman, innovator, and community leader from San Jose who served in several public positions including the Santa Clara Planning Commission, Mayor of the City of Saratoga and the San Jose Planning Commission. Prior to founding his own internet company, LibraryWorld, Inc., Mr. Kline held technology and management roles with Lockheed Missiles and Space and Apple Computer.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
San Jose Halloween Attraction Guide 2013
Wondering which events to go to this Halloween season? The San Jose Blog has got you covered:
Back for their second year next to a pumpkin patch near Eastridge Mall. This time they have 3 full-blown haunts, up from 2 last year. These were very well done despite having fewer actors than some of the other places below. There is also a neat midway that connects all of the attractions and features a Halloween store.
World's Largest Haunted House - San Jose
They are known for a very long maze with seemingly never-ending black corridors that break up the scares. Admission is $20.
Halloween Haunt @ California's Great America - Santa Clara
Still the largest Halloween event in Northern California. Now in its sixth year, the word has gotten out on Halloween Haunt and the park is packed even on day 1. Sundays are probably your best bet if you want to hit all of the haunts. There are now 8 haunted mazes, a single haunted ride, 3 scare zones, and various shows (2 of the mazes are new this year, as well as the ride). Most rides worth going on are still open--including the new Goldrush--and the roller coasters are being run with all the lights turned off.
The preeminent Bay Area Halloween event for almost 2 decades is returning this year with an another great event. There are 5 haunted mazes this year, a Halloween Carnival, and several micro-attractions. This is MUCH MORE intense than Great America, so don't bring your young children. You'll get scares from every angle, including above and below you. The haunts are extraordinarily well done, and they only let in small groups.
Shadow Hills - Los Gatos
This was the biggest surprise of last year and one of the best haunts I have ever done. The groups are limited to only 2 people, there is quite a bit of acting and storytelling, you have interactive elements like hidden doors, and finally there is one scare prop (think chain saws and air guns) that will blow you away.
Swank Farms - Hollister
I didn't do this one this year, but I heard it was great. Instead of doing 2 haunts they have one very large maze. The haunt should take 15+ min and incorporates part of their cornfield maze.
Scotts Valley Haunted House - Scotts Valley
A high school production may seem out of place on this list, but I assure you that this one is 100% worthwhile. As opposed to your typical maze where you have people randomly popping out at you, each year there is a unique story with hundreds of actors, making you truly feel like you're immersed in the script. You can also forget the saying "don't touch the actors and they won't touch you." Past events have included surprises like receiving fake shots, being completely separated from your party, and even wet hands touching the back of your neck while you are in pitch darkness. Insanely scary and much more interactive than any of the other events. Plus the money connected is donated to charity. One caveat, due to how awesome this haunt is there may be a 2-3 hour wait. At least you'll have the high school dance team dressed up as zombies entertaining you (and performing Thriller in its entirety every 15min). The cost is $8 per person. Oct 24-26 only, starting at 7pm. 555 Glenwood Dr., Scotts Valley.
This was the single most impressive haunt attraction in the Bay Area last year, but unfortunately it has been put on hold this year and replaced with a hay maze. I'm really hoping that this one comes back in 2014.
Monday, October 21, 2013
Latest Hampton Inn Renders
The latest renders of the Hampton Inn project in Downtown San Jose look infinity times better than what was originally planned. For all those that complained when you saw the first draft, give yourselves a pat on the back. It's nice to know that San Josean's can now demand a bit more in the design department when it comes to future Downtown projects (the One South high-rise design was another example of this). I especially like the new down lighting that Hampton Inn added to the top floor. What do you guys think?
Thanks to Joseph Meduri for sending these in.
Thanks to Joseph Meduri for sending these in.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)