MOUNTAIN VIEW VOICE | 2020 EDITION OURNEIGHBORHOODS Mountain View and Los Altos

A look at the people, places and happenings that define these communities’ neighborhoods

MV-Voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 1 12/2/19 6:55 PM EXPERIENCE MATTERS! OVER 1,800 HOMES SOLD IN 34 YEARS

MOUNTAIN VIEW, LOS ALTOS & SURROUNDING AREAS

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REALTOR® – SINCE 1985 | WWW.HOWARDBLOOM.COM | [email protected] 2 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 2 12/2/19 6:39 PM Thinking of Buying or Selling in the New Year?

Thinking of Buying or Selling in the New Year?

Derk Brill’s success in the Mid-Peninsula real estate market is no secret. Derk has been a Mountain View resident for over 20 years, having raised his family in Waverly Park. His experience and expertise have enabled Derk to attain the status of sdl
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from most top producing agents. He offers a hands- on, personal approach to the sale of a home. This extends from the preparation process through the close of escrow. Rather than handing a client off to a series of assistants, Derk manages every aspect of the sale including property prep, marketing, open houses, negotiation, and closing. This provides a seamless transaction from beginning to end.

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Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 3

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 3 12/2/19 6:23 PM Lynn North has been in the top 5% as a REALTOR® for the past 16 years with the prestigious Compass in the Bay Area and formerly with Alain Pinel Realtors.

Testimonial Greg Klein

“She worked quickly and thoroughly while simultaneously ensuring we made informed decisions every step of the way. She was incredibly professional and brought an amazing amount of energy to her work.”

Lynn North has earned the reputation among her colleagues and clients for honesty, integrity and loyalty.

Learn more at LynnNorth.com

Lynn North

Compass is the brand name used for services provided by one or more of the Compass group of subsidiary compa- REALTOR® nies. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01079009. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is 650.209.1562 KdalW_OM
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4 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 4 12/2/19 6:40 PM OUR MOUNTAIN VIEW VOICE | 2020 EDITION Mountain View NEIGHBORHOODS Los Altos Magali Gauthier Magali Gauthier Magali Mountain View’s Whisman Station. North Los Altos.

ountain View and Los Altos are from throughout the region. And one can find We know that the heartbeat of a Mconsistently mentioned among the top every type of housing option in the city’s 25 neighborhood is more than school rankings, 15 best suburbs to live and raise a family in neighborhoods. home values, traffic counts and architectural California, and for good reasons: These side-by- Los Altos reveres its quiet, secluded village- styles. That’s why in each of our neighborhood side cities have award-winning schools, lots of open spaces and plenty of activities for a diversity like feel with a quaint downtown purposely features, we’ve highlighted the people, places of lifestyles. Yet, each city offers a strikingly devoid of big box stores and large businesses. Its and activities that best define the area. We’ve different feel and experience. eight neighborhoods consist of predominantly asked residents what they like, what they’d like Ask longtime residents of Mountain View single-family homes on large lots. to see changed and what intangible features or Los Altos what makes their neighborhood So which community is good for first-time make their neighborhoods a place they like to special and they’ll easily point to the subtle homebuyers? Where can you get around call home. differences that exist — sometimes block to without a car? And what neighborhoods are the These stories also can be found on our block. most family friendly? website, mv-voice.com/real_estate. Mountain View boasts a bustling, tech- Our 16th guide to local neighborhoods If your area has been overlooked — or centric downtown with lots of new transit- provides an insider’s perspective on what you’ve found something just plain wrong oriented housing, office space for many of the sets these two communities apart from other — please contact Linda Taaffe, who edited world’s largest tech giants and seven blocks of Midpeninsula cities, as well as what subtle this publication, at 650-223-6511 or ltaaffe@ restaurants, bars and theaters that attract people differences set each of their neighborhoods paweekly.com. We’d love to hear from you. „ apart from the others.

STAFF Mountain View neighborhood stories begin on page 6 Publisher: William S. Johnson Vice President Sales and Advertising: Editor: Andrea Gemmet Tom Zahiralis Los Altos neighborhood stories begin on Neighborhoods Editor: Linda Taaffe Sales representatives: Connie Jo Cotton, page 35 Designer: Kristin Brown Neal Fine and Rosemary Lewkowitz

Additional copies of Mountain View Neighborhoods, as On the Cover: Mountain View and Los Altos well as companion publications — Almanac Neighborhoods neighborhoods clockwise from top left: Anne Cohen and her son, Zyler, at Rengstorff Park (photo by Magali and Palo Alto Neighborhoods — are available at the Weekly Gauthier); Enchanté Boutique Hotel, North Los Altos for $5 each. All three publications are available online at (Magali Gauthier); Bob and Diane Claypool, Woodland Acres (Michelle Le); Gene and Joyce Cavanaugh, 450 Cambridge Ave. paloaltoonline.com/real_estate. Willowgate (Magali Gauthier); Robin Fries, South Palo Alto, CA 94306 Los Altos (Natalia Nazarova); Catherine Crowley, 650-964-6300 Copyright ©2019 by Embarcadero Media. All rights reserved. Eastern Varsity Park (Michelle Le); town houses, North www.mv-voice.com Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Whisman (Brenna Malmberg). Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 5

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 5 12/2/19 6:23 PM Mountain View

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r MONTA LOMA e REX MANOR- P NORTH WHEEL Greater San Antonio ...... 8 MOUNTAIN WHISMAN SHADOWS Jackson Park ...... 24 MOFFETT BOULEVARD Martens-Carmelita ...... 31 JACKSON Central ExpresswayPARK WHISMAN Moffett Boulevard ...... 19 GREATER STATION SAN ANTONIO CASTRO WILLOW- SLATER Monta Loma ...... 7 CITY GATE North Whisman ...... 33 237 San Antonio Rd SHORELINE WEST Old Mountain View ...... 20 OLD S. Rengstorff Ave Rex Manor-Mountain MOUNTAIN 85 Castro St Shadows ...... 12 VIEW

S. Shoreline Blvd St. Francis Acres ...... 14 GEMELLO 82 SYLVAN Shoreline West ...... 25 ST. FRANCIS El Camino Real PARK ACRES Slater ...... 30 Mountain View Springer Meadows ...... 11

Stierlin Estates ...... 19 Springer Rd SPRINGER MEADOWS CUESTA

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C r e e Waverly Park ...... 32 Grant Rd k EASTERN Whisman Station ...... 26 VARSITY PARK Miramonte Ave Willowgate ...... 22 BLOSSOM VALLEY WAVERLY PARK 85 DUTCH HAVEN

FACTS 2019-20 GENERAL OPERATING BUDGET $136.1 million POPULATION 83,377 MEDIAN AGE 35 rom an early stagecoach stop and and mobile homes. About 41% are owner- HOUSEHOLDS agricultural center, Mountain View has occupied. 35,256 Fgrown since its incorporation in 1902 Encompassing 12 square miles, Mountain HOMEOWNERS to a thriving city of 80,000-plus residents in View is surrounded by Palo Alto, Los Altos 41% the heart of Silicon Valley. Internationally and Sunnyvale. Highways 101, 85 and 237, MEDIAN HOME VALUE $1.73 million (single-family, known corporations make Mountain View as well as light rail and Caltrain, offer quick October 2019) their home, swelling the daytime population access to the rest of the Bay Area. to more than 100,000. Mountain View’s diversified population Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, 2018 Today, Mountain View’s 25 neighborhoods enjoys superb recreation and arts facilities, American Community Survey; city of Mountain View; Zillow Research, are as varied as the housing types, with including Shoreline Park and the Mountain October 2019. single-family, town houses, multifamily View Center for the Performing Arts.

6 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 6 12/2/19 6:23 PM Monta Loma

onta Loma is one of the most identifiable neighborhoods in MMountain View. Walking into the area is like stepping into a time warp where the past and future co-exist. The residential streets are lined with rows of mid-century modern homes from the 1950s that sit adjacent to a Google campus with a testing track for self-driving cars.

Location Bounded by San Antonio Road, Middlefield Road, Rengstorff Avenue and Central Expressway. Nearby shopping Central Expressway and Rengstorff Avenue, Monta Loma Plaza, The Village at San Antonio Center. Who lives here Families, tech workers, retirees. Housing stock Nearly all of the single-family homes in Monta Loma were built by midcentury-modern architects Joseph Eichler,

Mardell Building Co. or John Mackay. Dallal Sammy Median sales price Dinnie McLaughlin, left, stops to chat with her neighbor Anna Segovia. Both Monta Loma $1.6 million.* residents are leading a neighborhood campaign to prevent residents at their apartment complex from being displaced by proposed rent increases. Most common neighborhood sight Mid-century modern homes; Google workers walking around having debates and discussions. Neighbors rally to save their homes Piece of neighborhood lore n a Sunday evening in the Monta spaces. The neighborhood sits on an ancient Native American Loma neighborhood, roughly 25 of the For McLaughlin, the work of community burial ground built by the Ohlone tribe. Known as Castro Oresidents in the Mayfield Apartments organizing is familiar and rewarding. Born and Mound, the site once covered the area where parts of on Whitney Avenue are gathered in one tenant’s raised in Palo Alto, she graduated from the Mardell Way and Nita, Dell, Aldean and Betlo avenues are living room. Food and drinks spill over the University of California, Berkeley with a degree in now located. dining table into the adjoining courtyard, English literature, studied music in Los Angeles, and a few hungry folks snack on veggies and and returned to her hometown to take care of Best-kept neighborhood secret homemade cookies as they anticipate this her father. She moved into the Mayfield Complex The Bianco family’s holiday model train display on Adele Avenue. meeting’s introduction. expecting to stay for about a year. Instead, the These residents received notice in August that opportunity to learn new skills during the tech Neighborhood in one sentence if a developer’s application is approved, their 40- boom kept her here for years that stretched to two “It’s a quiet little nesting area (with) a lot of pride of unit complex will be demolished and replaced by decades, even as friends moved away. ownership.” — Linda Harvey. for-sale units. She has owned her businesses, Dinnie’s Delight Hot-button issue Tenant Al Makino opens the floor by and Mythical Entertainment, for 20 years. Parking issues with Google. introducing guests and newcomers. As a Over the years, face painting, glitter tattooing, Spanish translator for the group, he acts as a henna and psychic reading have taught her to Neighborhood association co-chair to Dinnie McLaughlin, who first began make the most of her atypical schedule and Monta Loma Neighborhood Association, Linda Harvey, hosting these meetings out of her living room channel it into community building. As she has president, [email protected]. in September. By the third meeting, they had experienced with her fellow Bay Area face- Parks moved to the courtyard of the apartment to painting artists, mobilizing is social in nature. Monta Loma Park, Thaddeus Park. accommodate growing numbers of participants. Even when there aren’t political goals to strive for, Private schools By October, over half the apartment was showing having meals together for birthdays or holidays Waldorf High School of the Peninsula. up to meetings, representing a wide range of ages binds people together. The same community and languages. comes together in times of hardship. Public schools Several of the residents have been attending “Food and drinks are set out before and after,” Mountain View Whisman School District — Monta Loma similar meetings at other complexes facing the McLaughlin said about the Mayfield meetings. Elementary School, Crittenden Middle School; Mountain same threat. These rent-controlled apartments are “Socializing is part of community. We give View-Los Altos Union High School District — Los Altos vulnerable to building plans for condominiums everyone a moment to talk and touch base.” High School. and single-family homes. If the proposals are Regarding the growing turnout of the meetings, approved without intervention, the apartments “We’re getting to know people we didn’t know

* will simply be demolished. (before). ... I think that’s the biggest change I’ve Source: Redfin.com, October 2019. The Mayfield tenants plan to prepare a counter seen.”All in all, the community forging through Responses compiled from survey and past interviews with proposal. They also plan to form a tenants’ union. these meetings proves unity against uncertainty, former and current residents. And to rally her fellow tenants, McLaughlin she added. „ — Compiled by Linda Taaffe sends emails, catches them in the hallway, and — Esther Young, 2019 places reminders for upcoming meetings in shared Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 7

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 7 12/2/19 6:23 PM Greater San Antonio

eveloped on the former site of an underutilized shopping mall next Dto the San Antonio Caltrain station in the mid-1990s, Greater San Antonio is a planned neighborhood connected by tree-lined streets, pedestrian paths and parks and recreation spaces. The 18-acre area is considered a model transit-oriented development.

Location Bounded by San Antonio Road, Showers Drive and California Street. Nearby shopping San Antonio Center, Village at San Antonio, California Club Chess Louis Saint the of courtesy Photo Street. Who lives here Mostly young professionals with families, some baby boomers. Housing stock The neighborhood includes approximately 540 units — detached homes, townhouses and condominiums. Median sales price $1.4 million.* Accolades Ruiyang Yan competes in the 5th round of the 2019 U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship in St. Louis on The neighborhood earned the Outstanding Planning July 19, 2019. Award from the American Planning Association in 2002. What was here before At just 12, she’s a national chess champ The Old Mill Shopping Center. hen 12-year-old Ruiyang Yan hobby into a competitive endeavor. Ruiyang Most common neighborhood sight narrowly qualified for the U.S. Girls’ usually spends three hours a day practicing, People walking to the San Antonio Station. W Junior Chess Championship earlier waking up at 6:30 a.m. to play chess online, Best liked about the neighborhood this year, she set her expectations cautiously and attends local competitions in Northern Proximity to the train. low. The tournament is the country’s most elite, California three to four times a month, she invitation-only junior chess competition, and said. Least liked about the neighborhood Ruiyang was one of the younger competitors in She also trains with Wenliang Li, former head Proximity to the train. the junior field. coach of China’s national chess team. Even after Neighborhood in one sentence However, as the wearying 10-day competition, 40 years involved in the sport, Li said that he “I love the sense of community, with people meeting in hosted in the U.S. Chess Capital of St. Louis, still finds every game to be “magical.” the parks or at the pool. People make close friends with Missouri, came to a close in July, Ruiyang faced At the St. Louis tournament, Ruiyang played their neighbors, who either have kids the same age or a surprising result. With five wins, two tied one opponent each day of the competition, have dogs.” — Nancy Morimoto. games and two losses, she placed third, taking recalling her shortest game against Maggie Feng Hot-button issues home a $1,500 prize. in Round 6 lasting two to three hours, with the The proposed new school at San Antonio Shopping She said the experience taught her “just to rest lasting far longer. Center; encroaching development. have more faith in myself.” Li, who traveled to St. Louis with Ruiyang, Neighborhood association Ruiyang, a seventh-grader at Egan Junior said her round 6 game was “perfect,” adding Greater San Antonio Community Association, greater- High School, which serves the Greater San that Ruiyang was able to set up her pieces in san-antonio.org. Antonio neighborhood, earned her National a winning position just a few moves into the Master certificate earlier this year and was game. Parks named the No. 1 ranked 12-year-old girl in the “She played just like a computer,” Li said Concord Circle and Sondgroth Way, Beacon Street and Laurel Way; nearby: Klein Park, Monta Loma Park. country at the start of 2019. proudly, through a translator. Ruiyang first gained exposure to the sport at As the second youngest of her cohort, with Private schools age 4, when her parents purchased a chess set most players 15 or older, Ruiyang said she Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School. for her as a gift. Her parents had no knowledge lacked self-confidence throughout many of her Public schools of the game, so she enrolled in a class to meet games, but sought to “try her best.” Los Altos School District — Covington Elementary School, fellow competitors and get an introduction to “It felt really good,” Ruiyang said, describing Egan Junior High School; Mountain View-Los Altos Union the basic strategies and rules of the game. the moment she learned of her third-place win. High School District — Los Altos High School. That initial experience piqued her interest, “I did way better than I expected.” and Ruiyang said she dove further into the Li credited much of Ruiyang’s success to her Sources: *Neighborhoods.com, October 2019. world of chess, studying strategy books to self-motivation and genuine interest in chess. improve her skills and playing against other Ruiyang said she wants to save her $1,500 Responses compiled from resident survey and past children through online communities such as prize to put toward future college tuition, and interviews with former and current residents. ChessKid.com. hopes to maintain a lifelong love for the sport. „ — Compiled by Linda Taaffe “It’s fun to beat everyone,” Ruiyang said. — Nisha Malley, 2019 In the last five years, she has transformed her 8 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 8 12/2/19 6:23 PM May the warmth of the holidays be with you throughout the year

CHRIS TRAPANI CEO & FOUNDER LOS AL TOS

RYAN IWANAGA EXECUTIVE VP & CO-FOUNDER

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BRIAN CHANCELLOR PALO ALTO SALES MANAGER

PALO ALTO 258 HIGH STREET (650) 323-1900 – LOS ALTOS 467 1ST STREET #200 (650) 947-2900 LOS GATOS // LOS GATOS NORTH POINT // WILLOW GLEN // SANTA CRUZ // APTOS

Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 9

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 9 12/2/19 6:23 PM Castro City

taying put seems to be a trend for people Location in the small, six-block historic Castro City Bounded by South Rengstorff Avenue, University Avenue, Sneighborhood tucked between Rengstorff College Avenue and Leland Avenue. Avenue and Central Expressway along the Nearby shopping Caltrain tracks — some of them have family La Plaza Market. roots that go all the way back to the 1940s. In recent years, however, the neighborhood’s Who lives here makeup has changed from working-class First-time home buyers, families, retirees.

families of predominantly Mexican-American Housing stock Natalia Nazarova heritage to a diverse socioeconomic group of Older cottages with one-car garages and newer two-story residents. The look of the neighborhood also homes on small lots. has changed: The decades-old landmark Castro Median sales price City Market has been replaced by La Plaza $1.3 million.* market and narrow, two-story homes now sit What was here before on once-empty lots where earlier generations The family home of Mariano Castro, who owned the Mexican used to pass the time playing baseball. land grant that is now the city of Mountain View, was located City, and Latino fruit pickers and other laborers settled in the on Rengstorff Avenue, and the neighborhood was part of the neighborhood, where homes sold for $150 in 1941, according family homestead.** to The Times. Best liked about the neighborhood Parks It feels secluded and quiet, despite being next to the Caltrain Castro Park, Rengstorff Park and pool, Heritage Park. tracks. Public schools Least liked about the neighborhood Mountain View Whisman School District— Castro and Mistral There is no formal neighborhood association or traditions to elementary schools, Graham Middle School; Mountain View- Natalia Nazarova bring people together; the streets are lined with cars because Los Altos Union High School District— Los Altos High School. there’s not enough parking space on properties. Sources: *Redfin.com, October 2019; **Mountain View Piece of neighborhood lore Historical Association. The neighborhood was originally subdivided in 1908 and dubbed “University Park” by land speculators who hoped Responses compiled from past interviews with former and university professors would build country cottages here. current residents. Instead, real estate men moved cannery shacks to Castro — Compiled by Linda Taaffe, 2019 Wagon Wheel

ocated right next to Google’s headquarters, Location in the same area where some of the biggest Bounded by East Middlefield Road, Tyrella Avenue, Fairchild Lmicrochip companies got their starts in Drive and North Whisman Road. previous decades, Wagon Wheel’s identity is Nearby shopping tightly intertwined with the tech industry. Strip mall on Leong Drive; retail centers on Middlefield Road Its name comes from Walker’s Wagon Wheel and Whisman Road. Restaurant and Casino, a western-themed watering hole where early semiconductor Who lives here engineers used to exchange ideas; and its street Tech workers, families, empty nesters. File photo names pay tribute to its past connection with Housing stock Fairchild Semiconductor, Intel and National Apartments, single-family homes. Semiconductor. While many Google workers Median sales price reopened for the 2019-20 school year.) currently call the area home, technology isn’t $1.27 million.* the neighborhood’s only attribute: It’s close to Neighborhood association What was here before Wagon Wheel Neighborhood Association, Kelley Ketchmark, trails, parks and has a small-town vibe where Fairchild Semiconductor, Intel and National Semiconductor. people know your name and the restaurants [email protected], wp.wagonwheelna.org. Piece of neighborhood lore know your favorite dish. Parks Walker’s Wagon Wheel was known as “the” after-hours Devonshire Park, Whisman Park. meeting place of many Silicon Valley tech pioneers. Two of the wagon wheels that used to adorn the now-demolished bar Private schools are preserved at the Computer History Museum. German International School of Silicon Valley. Best places to hang out Public schools Mario’s Italiano restaurant; Devonshire Park. Mountain View Whisman School District — Jose Antonio Vargas Elementary School, Crittenden Middle School; Mountain View-Los Neighborhood in one sentence Altos Union High School District — Mountain View High School. “It’s really cool to drive along and see streets named after Fairchild and National. That’s all a part of our neighborhood. I Sources: *Redfin.com, October 2019. just love it.” — Steve Bell. File photo Responses compiled from past interviews with former and Hot-button issue current residents. The push to reopen the old Slater school campus. (The campus, renamed Jose Antonio Vargas Elementary School, — Compiled by Linda Taaffe 10 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 10 12/2/19 6:23 PM Springer Meadows

pringer Meadows is a subset of the Location Blossom Valley area known for its mix of Bounded by Marilyn Place, Marilyn Drive, Fordham Way and Sranch-style homes and multi-story houses Barbara Avenue. on cozy, curved tree-lined streets and cul-de- Nearby shopping sacs with well-kept lawns. Residents describe Blossom Valley Shopping Center, Rancho Shopping Center, the area as a tight-knit neighborhood with lots Grant Road Plaza Shopping Center. of community events and neighbors who look out for one another. The neighborhood’s larger Who lives here Natalia Nazarova lots make the area feel more spacious than Families, retired couples. other areas. Housing stock Mostly 1950s ranch-style homes, some multi-story houses, on larger lots — typically 8,000 square feet. Median sales price $2.51 million.* Parks Most common neighborhood sight Varsity Park, Bubb Park, Cuesta Park. Children playing together; people chatting in their driveways. Private schools Best liked about the neighborhood St. Joseph Catholic School, St. Francis High School. Halloween parade, Easter egg hunt and the September block party — which one parent says is her children’s second- Public schools favorite day of the year behind Christmas. (Eligibility for school districts depends on resident’s address) Los Altos School District — Springer Elementary School, Blach What’s least liked about the neighborhood Intermediate School; Mountain View Whisman School District Cut-through traffic on Meadow Drive. — Bubb Elementary School, Graham Middle School; Mountain Neighborhood in one sentence View-Los Altos Union High School District — Los Altos and

Natalia Nazarova “It’s a great pocket of Mountain View. It’s very quiet. We really Mountain View high schools. like that.” — Heather Quick. *Source: Redfin.com, October 2019 (for Blossom Valley area). Neighborhood association Springer Meadows Neighborhood Association, Justine Responses compiled from past interviews with former and Dachille, [email protected]. current residents. Varsity Park. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe Eastern Varsity Park

uilt in 1962, the Eastern Varsity Park tract Location is often referred to as part of the Blossom Between Fordham Way, Sladky Avenue, Tulane Drive and BValley area, which includes Springer Tulane Court. Meadows, Blossom Valley Estates and Gest Nearby shopping Ranch. Today, the tract is a mix of modernist Blossom Valley Shopping Center, Rancho Shopping Center, remodels boasting Sunset Magazine-worthy Grant Park Plaza Shopping Center. xeriscaped front yards and traditional facades with well-established suburban landscaping. Who lives here All the streets embrace the tiny actual Varsity Mostly families. (Many of the old-timers started moving out File photo about 15 years ago.) Park, a perfect neighborhood space with a well- maintained basketball court, several modern Housing stock play structures and swings. Mostly renovated 1960s-era single-family homes on quarter- acre lots. Median sales price Reasons why people move here $2.51 million.* Los Altos schools. Most common neighborhood sight Parks Neighbors chatting, walking dogs or pushing kids on scooters. Varsity Park, Cuesta Park. Best liked about the neighborhood Private schools “Happy Hour” potlucks on Tulane during the summer. St. Joseph Catholic School, 1120 Miramonte Ave.; St. Francis High School, 1855 Miramonte Ave. Best-kept neighborhood secret Tulane Drive boasts a veritable orchard of fruit trees; a Public schools few blocks over on Columbia, a front-yard garden hosts a Los Altos School District — Springer Elementary, Blach summertime stand. Intermediate School; Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District — Mountain View High School. Best place to hang out Varsity Park. Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019 (for Blossom Valley area). Michelle Le Neighborhood in one sentence Responses compiled from past interviews with former and “We watch out for each other.” — Catherine Cowley. current residents. Catherine Cowley at her home on Tulane Drive. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe, 2019

Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 11

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 11 12/2/19 6:23 PM Rex Manor-Mountain Shadows

ex Manor-Mountain Shadows provides Location all the benefits of being close to Rex Manor: between Farley and Burgoyne streets, Central Rdowntown but without the noise and Expressway and West Middlefield Road; Mountain Shadows: parking headaches, which is why residents between Burgoyne Street and Shoreline Boulevard, San looking for a suburban lifestyle with an urban Ramon and Montecito avenues. feel say they prefer this neighborhood above Nearby shopping others. With its mix of housing options and Bailey Park Plaza Shopping Center, Rengstorff Avenue. Michelle Le proximity to Google, the area has attracted tech workers and families from around the Who lives here Diverse socioeconomic mix; singles, tech workers, families, globe, creating a potpourri of ethnicities that’s some old-timers. Rex Manor home. impressive even for the ultra-diverse Bay Area. Housing stock Best place to hang out Mostly two-story and ranch-style homes with double The sports fields at Stevenson Park. garages built between the 1950s-1960s; townhouses, some Biggest change in neighborhood apartments. The rising cost of real estate is forcing out many of the older Median sales price residents. * $2.05 million. Neighborhood association Piece of neighborhood lore Lawrence Shing, chair, [email protected]. When Mountain Shadows opened its first phase of homes Parks in 1964, 83 homes sold in three months, according to The Rex Manor Park, Stevenson Park. Times. Homes in the Rex Manor subdivision were available to veterans for $400 down in 1950. Public schools Mountain View Whisman School District — Theuerkauf and Best liked about the neighborhood Stevenson elementary schools, Crittenden Middle School; Proximity to downtown; nearby tennis courts. Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District — Los

Michelle Le Least liked about the neighborhood Altos High School. Nearby noise and traffic from concerts at Shoreline Amphitheatre. Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019. Neighborhood in one sentence Original model from Mountain Shadows “(It’s) a nice mixture of different types of people. There are Responses compiled from past interviews with former and subdivision. working-class people who have lived here for years as well as current residents. tech workers who have moved here more recently.” — Sharon Gloster. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe Blossom Valley

lossom Valley is comprised of four Location smaller neighborhoods — Springer Between Springer Road and Miramonte Avenue, Marilyn and BMeadows, Varsity Park, Blossom Valley Lincoln drives. Estates and Gest Ranch — all developed on Nearby shopping orchard land during the 1950s. And while Blossom Valley Shopping Center, Rancho Shopping Center, many of the homes have been renovated, Grant Road Plaza Shopping Center. residents say the neighborhood character has changed little: It’s still a quiet, family-friendly Who lives here Michelle Le enclave that echoes those earlier days. Ethnically diverse population; mostly families with young children and families who have lived there for generations. Housing stock Mostly renovated 1950s ranch-style homes. Best places to hang out Median sales price Varsity and Cuesta parks. $2.51 million.* Parks What was here before Varsity Park, Cuesta Park. Orchards. Public schools Most common neighborhood sight Los Altos School District— Springer Elementary School, Kids playing in the parks. Blach Intermediate School; Mountain View Whisman School Piece of neighborhood lore District — Bubb Elementary School, Graham Middle School; The hoop with the chain net at Varsity Park is the same Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District — Los

Ana Sofia Amieva-Wang Sofia Ana one that was there a generation ago, according to resident Altos or Mountain View high schools. Theodore Peng, who played basketball there as a kid. Private schools (nearby) Best-kept neighborhood secret St. Joseph Catholic School, St. Francis High School. Summer block parties; hanging out with neighbors at the playground at Varsity Park. *Source: Redfin.com, October 2019. Neighborhood in one sentence Responses compiled from past interviews with former and Theodore Peng at Varsity Park. “This is a close-knit community with continuity. I think current residents. residents here want to keep it a welcoming area.” — Theodore Peng. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe

12 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 12 12/2/19 6:23 PM ®

DeLeon Realty REDEFINING THE REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE

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Michael Repka, Managing Broker, DRE #01854880 | 650.900.7000 [email protected] | www.deleonrealty.com | DeLeon Realty, Inc. | DRE Neighborhoods #01903224 | Mountain View Voice | 13

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 13 12/2/19 6:41 PM St. Francis Acres

eveloped in the 1950s, St. Francis Acres is a quiet, residential Dneighborhood with deep front yards, tree-lined streets and people who know their neighbors.

Location Bordered by El Camino Real, Permanente Creek and El Monte Avenue. Nearby shopping Downtown Mountain View, El Monte Shopping Center, Clarkwood Center. Who lives here Families, retired couples. Housing stock Mostly renovated ranch-style homes built in the 1950s on lots ranging from 5,000 square feet to 5,700 square feet. Median sales price $2.48 million.* Magali Gauthier Most common neighborhood sight Kids playing outside. Piece of neighborhood lore During the late 1800s, there was a secret gambling hall known as The Junction that stood near what is now the Mary Peterson, who will turn 104 in January, moved to Mountain View just after World War II. intersection of El Camino Real and El Monte Avenue. Best liked about the neighborhood Halloween and Memorial Day block parties. At 103, she’s still a role model Neighborhood in one sentence ary Peterson, who will turn 104 in “But my life has been great. I’m very grateful,” “Our neighborhood used to be seen as a starter January, is quite possibly Mountain said Peterson, who began contributing more neighborhood, but no longer. People are here to stay MView’s oldest resident. She’s also a time toward the senior community after her and want to have a home they can be comfortable in recognized role model to many seniors in the husband died in 1978. for the long term.” — Melinda Joffe. greater community. It has been hard for her to wind down, said Reasons why people move here For the past four decades, Peterson has longtime friend Edith Frost, who met Peterson Los Altos School District. dedicated much of her time to the Mid- when they partnered with some other church Peninsula Widows and Widowers Association, ladies on the bowling team. Parks McKelvey Park, Eagle Park. Menlo Church and the Mountain View Senior “The constant thing in Mary’s life is she’s Center, where until recent years, she served looking for something to do to help other Private schools lunch to seniors and called out numbers at the people,” Frost said. Canterbury Christian School, St. Francis High School. weekly bingo game. Peterson said the community has changed Public schools She also has organized several knitting parties much over the decades. Los Altos School District — Springer Elementary School, to make caps for seniors in convalescent homes, “Mountain View used to be such an itsy- Egan Junior High School; Mountain View-Los Altos sings in a choral group and makes it a point to bitsy city — it was all single-story homes,” she Union High School District — Los Altos High School. call up the dozens of members in the Widows reminisced. and Widowers Association to sing “Happy Although she laments the increase in traffic

* Birthday” to them each year. And up until about and endless housing developments in Mountain Source: arjanihomes.com, October 2019. 10 years ago, she was on the bowling team Holy View, she’s come to appreciate the positive Responses compiled from past interviews with former Rollers, which she named. changes that have occurred over the years — and current residents. Peterson said she had no close family from the booming downtown restaurant scene members in California when she moved to to the opening of Shoreline Park, where until — Compiled by Linda Taaffe Mountain View with her husband just after recent years, she used to walk six miles every World War II, so she formed a family in the Saturday with members of the Widows and people she encountered every day by engaging Widowers club to keep active before heading to in such activities as baking cookies and teaching lunch at Michael’s cafe. others to crochet. It’s something she’s carried on Born Jan. 9, 1916, Peterson was raised in throughout her life, even at 103, when some of St. Paul, Minnesota, the oldest of six children. these tasks aren’t so easy with her arthritis. Although Peterson never had any children, Just before her 103rd birthday at the start her extended family has multiplied like crazy

Michelle Le of 2019, Peterson spoke to the Voice in the over the years. She counts them up: 13 nieces St. Francis Acres home she and her husband, and nephews, 20 great-nieces and nephews, 25 Thomas Peterson, built decades ago. great-great-nieces and nephews. To all of them, Getting old isn’t easy, especially beyond 100, she is known as “Aunt Mary.” „ Mountain View Avenue home. she said. —Mark Noack, 2019

14 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 14 12/3/19 10:56 AM ELIZABETH THOMPSON

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As your neighborhood specialist, my success is built on your success.

In 2019, homes sold by Elizabeth in St. Francis Acres sold for an average of $255 a square foot higher than her competition.

“If you do not consider using “You won’t regret having “Thank you so much for Elizabeth when selling your Elizabeth on your team.” steering us in the right home you could be leaving direction on this. We would money on the table.” Jenny & Andrew have lost a lot of money 1341 Todd Street had we sold earlier.” Michael Shing 1417 Ernestine Lane Chris & Allison 1487 Todd Street

ELIZABETH THOMPSON (650) 823-8904 | [email protected] www.elizabeththompson.com | DRE # 01382997

Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 15

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 15 12/2/19 6:23 PM Cuesta Park

amed after the park that anchors the neighborhood, Cuesta Park Nis a mix of single-family homes and apartments facing narrow tree-lined streets along Mountain View’s western edge near Los Altos. El Camino Real separates the neighborhood from the downtown, giving the area a surprising sense of serenity.

Location Bounded by El Camino Real, Grant Road, Cuesta Drive, Miramonte Avenue, Castro Street. Nearby shopping Grant Park Plaza, Blossom Valley Shopping Center, downtown Mountain View. Who lives here Mostly families. Housing stock A variety of single-family homes on quarter-acre lots. Magali Gauthier Median sales price $2.15 million.*

Most common neighborhood sight Hala Alshahwany, left, and Nabeel Al-Shamma chat outside their home in Cuesta Park. Construction; people walking their dogs. Best place to hang out Cuesta Park. The neighborhood power couple Neighborhood in one sentence hile serving on the Mountain View leading the way in a regional effort aimed at “Large, friendly, family-oriented.” — Kavita Aiyar. Environmental Sustainability Task cutting emissions. Force, Hala Alshahwany’s research This year, however, their electricity provider, Least liked about the neighborhood W convinced her of the difference that converting Silicon Valley Clean Energy (SVCE), recognized “Construction is happening, but we need a whole lot appliances from natural gas to electric could Alshahwany and Al-Shamma’s home conversion more (housing).” — John Littig. make in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with a $3,000 prize in their All Electric Best-kept neighborhood secret when electricity comes from a renewable Showcase Awards. Community newsletter. “It rocks.” — Kavita Aiyar. source. According to SVCE Communications So when she and her husband, Nabeel Al- Manager Pamela Leonard, in highlighting the Reasons why people move here Shamma, remodeled their Cuesta Park home a successes of early adopters like Alshahwany and Urban-suburban feeling; walking distance to downtown. couple years ago, it was a good opportunity to Al-Shamma, the awards aim to raise awareness Neighborhood association go “all-electric.” Even so, Alshahwany had slight about the advantages of home electrification. Cuesta Park Neighborhood Association (CPNA), misgivings about cooking on an electric stove — Making an overall switch during a remodel, Aileen La Bouff, president, 650-804-0522, aileen@ though that didn’t stop her from switching. as Alshahwany and Al-Shamma did, can make serenogroup.com. “A lot of people are hesitant to convert their sense for those planning for a significant stovetops from natural gas to electric. They project. Alshahwany said they spent about Parks like the method of cooking over a flame. I $22,000 to convert all four of their gas-burning Bubb Park, Cuesta Park. was a bit worried about that because I cook appliances. Actually making the conversion, she Private schools a lot,” Alshahwany said. “I have to say, I was said, took only about two weeks out of the four- St. Joseph, 1120 Miramonte Ave.; St. Francis High pleasantly surprised. The electric stove that we month remodel. School, 1885 Miramonte Ave. have works very well. It cools off very quickly. Their remodel can also serve as a resource The technology now has improved these for those looking to convert gradually as they Public schools appliances.” overcome hurdles in expense, as well as attitude. Mountain View Whisman School District — Bubb In addition to replacing the gas stove, during Alshahwany expressed satisfaction with the Elementary School, Graham Middle School; Mountain the remodel, the couple switched out their effectiveness of all her home’s new electric View-Los Altos Union High School District — Mountain gas-burning clothes dryer, water heater and appliances, stove included. In particular, the View High School. HVAC (heating, ventilation, air-conditioning) heat pump installed for climate control has for electric replacements. To complement their proved very efficient at both heating and electric conversion, the couple also installed cooling, even with the home’s open-plan layout. Sources: *Zillow.com, October 2019. energy-efficient windows and insulation, and “In the summertime, we ended up using the replaced their lawn and sprinkler system with a cooling quite a bit, which I didn’t expect. We had Responses compiled from survey and past interviews garden of native plants. fairly hot days this summer. ... I was surprised by with former and current residents. The homeowners never anticipated that their how much we used it,” Alshahwany said. „ — Compiled by Linda Taaffe conversion would serve as a community model — Heather Zimmerman, 2019 and earn them recognition as early adopters 16 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

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Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 17

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 17 12/2/19 6:24 PM Gemello

et back from El Camino Real near the Los Altos border, Gemello is a Squiet neighborhood with streetscapes blanketed by mature trees, white picket fences, window boxes and large front yards.

Location Bounded by El Monte Avenue, Jardin Drive, Karen Way and El Camino Real. Nearby shopping Downtown Mountain View, downtown Los Altos, Blossom Valley Shopping Center, Gemello Village, Clarkwood Center, San Antonio Center, The Village at San Antonio Center. Who lives here Mostly families. Housing stock Mostly ranch-style homes from the 1950s; some

apartments, town houses. Michelle Le Median sales price $2.6 million.* Martina Tolbert, community manager of Gemello Village Apartments, stands in the central area of What was here before the complex on the site where Gemello Winery once operated. A 55-acre ranch owned by the Gemello family, who opened the Gemello Winery on the site in 1934 a few months after Prohibition ended and made award- Once a winery, neighborhood still has rural vibe winning wines out of grapes from nearby Los Altos Hills, Saratoga and Campbell.** hen Jeanne Evilsizer moved to the complexes have been built there in recent Gemello neighborhood in 1977, years, according to Bonfert and Evilsizer. Park Wthere was a winery in the spot “I don’t mind the living units,” Evilsizer said. Gemello Park, Marich Way and Solana Court. where today’s Gemello Village retail complex “I’d rather have living units than businesses Private schools now stands. in the neighborhood. The only problem is the Canterbury Christian School, The Waldorff School of the A few years later, the Gemello Winery increased traffic ... otherwise, this would be a Peninsula. disappeared when Mario Gemello sold the perfect area.” family business to his niece, who renamed One of the largest apartment complexes in Public schools it Obester Winery and moved it to Half Gemello is the Gemello Village Apartments, Mountain View Whisman School District — Bubb Moon Bay. The surname Gemello, however, located behind Gemello Village Shopping Elementary School, Graham Middle School; Mountain has stayed as the name of the verdant Center on El Camino Real. View-Los Altos Union High School District — Los Altos neighborhood — and so has the semi-rural The gated apartment complex has 52 High School. feel from the 1950s when most of the ranch- units that rarely are vacant, according to style homes were built there. community manager Martina Tolbert, who “It’s a quaint neighborhood still, and has a said she’s seen a rapid increase of higher- Sources: *Redfin.com, October 2019; **archive.org nice family atmosphere. That’s why we’re still density housing in the neighborhood over the here,” said Rick Bonfert, who moved to the past seven years. Responses compiled from past interviews with former area in 1998, and by neighborhood standards “Most of the residents in the community are and current residents. is considered a “relative newcomer” compared young families,” Tolbert said. to Evilsizer’s immediate neighbors, who were Soltan Doganay and her family rent a — Compiled by Linda Taaffe there when she moved in 40 years ago. two-bedroom condo about two blocks away Evilsizer said she’s not surprised that from Gemello Village. They moved there the neighborhood has so many longtime from North San Jose to be closer to Stanford residents. Gemello has a rare combination of University, where Doganay works as a convenience and peacefulness, she said. researcher. “I love the location with quick access While Doganay said housing costs are more to shopping on El Camino Real and to expensive there compared to San Jose, it’s downtown Los Altos,” she said. “I enjoy worth it. walking as often as possible, and I am able to “Here, I can put my baby boy in a stroller

Vivian Wong walk to almost all of my necessary services.” and take long walks,” Doganay said. “There are Nearby are food stores, doctors offices, a many trees and few cars in the residential area. veterinarian, a gym, restaurants and a library. This is what I really love about Gemello; it’s a While most of the homes in Gemello are kid-friendly neighborhood.” „ Pilgrim Avenue home. ranch-style houses, the neighborhood has — Crystal Tai, 2017 seen a shift as more and more apartment 18 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 18 12/2/19 6:24 PM Moffett Boulevard

network of bike trails connect the Location Moffett Boulevard neighborhood to Bounded by Central Expressway, West Middlefield, San Veron A some of the biggest tech companies in Avenue, San Lucas Avenue and Highway 85. the world just on the north side of Highway Nearby shopping 101 — but one wouldn’t know it. Residents Moffett Plaza, downtown Mountain View, Sunday farmers compare the neighborhood to being up in

market at Caltrain parking lot. Natalia Nazarova the mountains at a resort: Redwood trees reach toward the sky while ducks quack and Who lives here float around on the little ponds within the Young families, professionals, retirees. neighborhood, which includes a variety of Housing stock like Medium-density housing; mostly apartments and condos. landscaped apartment and condo complexes. 100 Moffett Apartments. In recent years, the neighborhood has found Median sales price itself facing tremendous growth as projects $1.05 million.* Hot-button issues either built or approved by the City Council Too much development in a short amount of time; high- Most common neighborhood sight density developments. are slated to add hundreds of additional hotel Birds (crows, juncos, hummingbirds, robins, ducks, mourning rooms, apartments and row houses to the doves, a great blue heron and occasional night heron, marsh Neighborhood association area. hawk or egret); RVs parked along the streets. George Markle, [email protected]. Piece of neighborhood lore Parks Moffett Boulevard was built as an extension of Castro Street Jackson Park. to connect Mountain View with the new Moffett Field Air Public schools Base constructed in 1933 before a connection could be built Mountain View Whisman School District — Theuerkauf and between the air base and Sunnyvale. Stevenson elementary schools, Crittenden Middle School; Best liked about the neighborhood Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District — Great neighborhood to take a walk or a bike ride; close to Mountain View High School. downtown, Caltrain and all the major highways. Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019.

File photo Best-kept neighborhood secret Responses compiled from resident survey and past interviews Ramen Izakaya Yu-Gen (ramen restaurant). with current and former residents. Best places to hang out Cypress Point Lakes Condominiums. Stevens Creek Trail; Peet’s Coffee. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe

Stierlin Estates

tierlin Estates is the type of neighborhood Location where children play in the street and Between Terra Bella Avenue, North Shoreline Boulevard, West Sneighbors look out for one another. Middlefield Road, Moffett Boulevard and Highway 85. Retirees say its close access to downtown is an Nearby shopping added bonus. And even though the orchards, Bailey Park Plaza. peacocks and rural feel that once surrounded the area when the 178-home subdivision first Who lives here opened in 1962 may be long gone, residents say Ethnically diverse with families, old-timers, empty nesters. the neighborhood still has a secluded, “tucked Housing stock

away” vibe — part of the reason is because Mostly one-story homes built in the 1960s; some town homes, Michelle Le of the subdivision’s design. Its streets wind condos. through the neighborhood in a loop, slowing What was here before down cars and discouraging cut-through Orchards; a farmhouse with peacocks. traffic. Most common neighborhood sight Hot-button issues People tending to their gardens; children playing in front Some call it Stierlin Estates, but others insist the real name is yards. Sterling. Piece of neighborhood lore Reasons why people move here A car flew off the ramp on Highway 85 and landed next to Location. It’s close to everything you need. a play structure in a resident’s backyard before the sound Parks wall was built; the $19,450 price tag for new homes in the San Veron Park. subdivision didn’t include a lawn. Public schools Best liked about the neighborhood Mountain View Whisman School District— Theuerkauf and “You can trust (your neighbors).” — Perci Cardestam. Stevenson elementary schools, Crittenden Middle School; Least liked about the neighborhood Increased Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District— Michelle Le nearby traffic. Mountain View and Los Altos high schools. Neighborhood in one sentence Responses compiled from past interviews with former and “It’s a secluded little neighborhood. Kids have been known to current residents. Above and right: The neighborhood’s iconic play ball in the streets.” — Ken Carter. 1960s-era ranch-style homes. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe

Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 19

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 19 12/2/19 6:24 PM Old Mountain View

ocated in the heart of downtown, this neighborhood includes some of Lthe city’s earliest buildings that were erected in the 1800s as Mountain View was evolving from a stagecoach stop into an agricultural center. Grand Victorian homes, farmhouses and cottages built in the early 1900s line the quaint streets alongside newer apartments and town houses. Real estate is in such demand here, many residents say they don’t ever plan to sell.

Location Bounded by El Camino Real, Shoreline Boulevard, Evelyn Avenue and Highways 85/237. Nearby shopping Downtown Mountain View, Grant Park Plaza. Who lives here Mix of families, young professionals, retirees. Magali Gauthier Housing stock Architectural mix of old and new single-family homes, town houses, apartments — some dating back before 1900. Leslie Friedman, left, demonstrates a dance move to her student, Julie van Gelder, during a private Median home value class. $1.9 million.* What was here before Lifelong dancer hosts an international A stagecoach stop. dance party for locals Most common neighborhood sight Young adults and professionals hanging out at bars and he first thing Leslie Friedman notices Masonic Lodge on Church Street, which restaurants along Castro Street. when she enters a room is the floor. welcomes all through two striking lapis blue Wooden? Concrete? Tiled? Her dancer’s doors that reveal a large ballroom with — of Best liked about the neighborhood T eye is always looking for good floors for dancing course — wooden flooring. Behind a partition, a “I won’t be able to drive forever and want to be active and ways her work can serve the community. side room is used for childcare while the parents ... I like the idea of walking and eating around Castro at As an internationally touring performer, dance. 9 at night.” — Angela Siddall. choreographer and artistic director of the Jennifer Urmson, a mother of two boys, started Least liked about the neighborhood nonprofit Lively Foundation that operates in taking Friedman’s weekly ballet classes when a Traffic, noise. Old Mountain View, she applies her passion to friend invited her two years ago. Best-kept neighborhood secret classes, performances and friendly choreography “I had not been dancing for a very long time, Farmers market at the Caltrain station. competitions that are inclusive and accessible to and I was nervous about the idea of doing ballet the community. as an adult,” Urmson said, adding that as a child, Best place to hang out She also stirs up artistic presence on the she was told ballet was for bodies of a certain Castro Street. Peninsula by inviting renowned dancers from shape. “But Leslie is wonderful as a teacher. I Hot-button issue all over the globe to the annual International was really pleased that after a couple of lessons, Parking. Dance Festival@Silicon Valley that she hosts in I felt myself getting stronger and improving my Neighborhood association Mountain View. balance.” Old Mountain View Neighborhood Association, She launched the weeklong festival to create Within her class of five to six adults, there omvna.org. more performance opportunities for students was a woman in her early 20s, other moms taking dance and to expose them to traditional and retirees: A few of them were organizing Parks dances from different cultures: One year may activities outside class, such as attending a ballet Dana Park, Eagle Park & Pool, Pioneer Park, Mercy-Bush bring a hula hoop artist, another year Irish set performance at the Mountain View Center for Park, Fairmont Park, Landels Park. dancing, or Polish folk dance, or Cuban Salsa. the Performing Arts. Public schools “A ballerina might have an opportunity to learn Urmson said whether you attend several Mountain View Whisman School District — Landels Afro-Haitian Dance. A complete beginner might classes or take part in a single workshop at the Elementary School, Graham Middle School; Mountain have a wonderful time in line dances or find a gift festival, the Lively Foundation seems to have a View-Los Altos Union High School District — Mountain for tap,” Friedman explained. “And professional way of connecting people. View High School. dancers can showcase their work here.” Months after the dance festivals, you’ll hear Through the foundation, Friedman said she people exchanging highlights from the event hopes to bring some diversity to the community when they run into one another around town, * Source: Zillow.com, September 2019. while exposing people to dance. she said. Responses compiled from past interviews with former “Move whatever moves, wiggle whatever “Even if it’s just one class, you see a different and current residents. wiggles,” she said. “If my work inspires someone side of people. You feel you know them better,” to keep moving, wow.” Urmson said. „ — Compiled by Linda Taaffe Classes and performances are held at the — Esther Young, 2019

20 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 20 12/2/19 6:45 PM Thinking of Making a Move? Just Call Kim!

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Mtn View NH-2020.indd 21 12/2/19 6:43 PM Willowgate

illowgate is a lot like living in a park: Towering redwoods, Wmagnolias and willow trees provide the neighborhood a private and peaceful setting away from the bustle of nearby downtown, which is located within strolling distance just on the other side of Central Expressway.

Location Bounded by Central Expressway, Moffett Blvd., Middlefield Road and Highway 85.

Nearby shopping Moffett Central Shopping Center, downtown Mountain View, Sunday farmers market at Caltrain parking lot.

Who lives here Families, young professionals, working class, seniors.

Housing stock Magali Gauthier A variety of housing options and architectural styles, including apartments, condominiums, townhouses and single-family Craftsman-style homes and wood, cabin- like houses. Residents Gene and Joyce Cavanaugh work in their garden plot at the Willowgate Community Median sales price Gardens in Mountain View. $1.61 million.*

What’s best liked about the neighborhood Group gardening takes root on Andsbury Avenue Shaded and quiet streets that are walking-, jogging- and biking-friendly, even during a hot summer day. ucked discreetly behind a locked gate who’s been tending a plot at Willowgate for 10 at the end of Andsbury Avenue lies years. He grows traditional raspberries, tomatoes Most common neighborhood sight Tthe centerpiece of the Willowgate and cucumbers, but it’s his hops plant that towers Redwood, magnolia, willow trees. neighborhood — a one-acre community garden above all else. that includes sprawling plots of land where “This is the fifth year I’m brewing the Best-kept neighborhood secret residents can get their hands dirty planting Willowgate Pale Ale,” he said. A veteran home Willowgate Community Garden fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers while brewer, Zuravleff picks fresh hops from his plot enjoying something more priceless: a place to and brings them straight home, brewing the beer Best places to hang out get away. the same day. Tres Hermanos Taqueria and JL Produce grocery store. The Willowgate Community garden, which is The gardeners at Willowgate have organized The neighborhood in one sentence owned and operated by the city, is divided into tomato tastings, barbecues and crop shares. They “It sort of feels like living in a park if you live in one dozens of plots, each rented to individuals or trade advice via a Google group and pool their families in the community for as little as $50 a extra food (more than 500 pounds) to donate of the townhouse complexes here, but it’s close to year. to the local food pantry at Community Services downtown Mountain View, close to a Safeway store and While many Willowgate residents describe the Agency, which is located down the street. close to the Stevens Creek Trail.” — Anna Kogan. garden as the neighborhood’s best-kept secret, “About half of our stuff goes to the food bank,” Parks demand for plots outweighs available space. The said Gene Cavanaugh, who has been gardening Jackson Park, Willowgate Community Garden. waiting list to secure a spot in the 30-year-old at Willowgate for 15 years and walks to the food community can be years because once people get bank with his wife, Joyce, at least once a week to Public schools in, they rarely want to leave. deliver the garden’s donations. Mountain View Whisman School District — Theuerkauf “It took me a long time to get that plot — like Mountain View Recreation Supervisor Shaun and Stevenson elementary schools, Crittenden Middle six years,” said Bill Zuravleff, a retired engineer Chilkotowsky points to the influx of housing as a School; Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School source of the growing demand at the garden. District — Mountain View High School. “My assumption is — with all the new development that you see — it’s all high-density, Adult school so people aren’t getting backyards,” Chilkotowsky Mountain View- Los Altos Adult Education Center. said. The limited space and long waits mean that,

Magali Gauthier in general, only truly devoted gardeners end up Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019. with plots. “This is an extension of their homes,” said Mountain View Recreation Coordinator Responses compiled from past interviews with former Colin James. “That’s why they are here a good and current residents. amount of the time.” „ Green beans grown at Willowgate Community — Compiled by Linda Taaffe Gardens. — Kali Shiloh, 2019

22 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

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Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 23

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 23 12/2/19 6:24 PM Jackson Park

ocated near Shoreline Boulevard, the Jackson Park area has become Lincreasingly more residential over the years with the redevelopment of nearby industrial properties. The small neighborhood provides residents with the urban conveniences of nearby downtown Mountain View and the feel of a quiet residential suburb with tree-lined streets, white picket fences and a mix of post- World War II houses and newer homes developed in the 1980s.

Location Bounded by Shoreline Boulevard, Stierlin Road, Windmill Park Lane, Central Avenue, Moffett Boulevard and Central Expressway. Nearby shopping Moffett Boulevard, downtown Mountain View, Bailey Plaza. Natalia Nazarova Who lives here Socioeconomic mix of renters, homeowners. Housing stock Older single-family homes; multi-family complexes, At the center of the neighborhood is Jackson Park, from which the neighborhood gets its name. condos and apartments built between the 1970s to present day. With this neighborhood park, Median sales price $1.1 million.* residents spend little time in their yards Most common neighborhood sight aren DeMello had planned to live in as condos and apartments and newer buildings, Kids playing at the park. Jackson Park for only a few years when such as the 100 Moffett apartments, which were Piece of neighborhood lore Kshe moved into the Mountain View built two years ago. The neighborhood includes the house of the original neighborhood in 1988, but she liked the Markle said most parcels of land in the owners of Jackson Park before they sold the property to location so much that she purchased an empty neighborhood are small, so those who don’t lot, built a home and has never left. She’s now enjoy yard work or have limited time, don’t developers. been there for more than three decades. need to worry about much maintenance. For Neighborhood in one sentence “It’s like you get the best of both worlds those with children, Jackson Park’s proximity “It’s like you get the best of both worlds because you’re because you’re in a residential neighborhood, means that the small backyards aren’t much of in a residential neighborhood, and you’re across the and you’re across the tracks from downtown,” a disadvantage. The Park includes benches and tracks from downtown.” — Karen DeMello. DeMello said. playgrounds for kids, and a couple blocks away Located between Shoreline Boulevard, lies a pocket park. Neighborhood association Central Expressway and Moffett Boulevard, the The neighborhood also is within walking George Markle, [email protected]. small community provides residents with both distance of Stevens Creek Trail, which connects the urban conveniences of nearby downtown to San Francisco Bay. Parks Mountain View and the feel of a quiet DeMello said the neighborhood is so close to Jackson Park. residential suburb with tree-lined streets, white so many activities that “every night there’s 10 Public schools picket fences and post-World War II houses. things I want to do.” Mountain View Whisman School District —Theuerkauf “(If you move here) plan on staying here There’s also a wide range of businesses: Ones forever because it’s just the perfect place to that have opened a few months ago, others and Stevenson elementary schools, Crittenden Middle be,” said resident George Markle. “It’s perfect that have been there for decades. For those in School; Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School location wise, climate wise, the availability need, there’s a community services center in the District — Mountain View High School. of all kinds of resources, (it’s) intellectually neighborhood that offers residents food and stimulating and culturally stimulating.” other services. Markle, who heads the Moffett Neighborhood “Right now, it’s pretty diverse, and I love that,” Source: *Neighborhoods.com, October, 2019. Group that also represents Jackson Park, has DeMello said. “We have a really nice mix in our lived in the area since 1974. neighborhood of all different sorts of types of Responses compiled from survey and past interviews He said the neighborhood has become more people, but I fear that might be going away as with former and current residents. eclectic over the years. people can’t afford to live here.”„ — Compiled by Linda Taaffe The area includes single-family homes that — Cameron Rebosio, 2018 have been there for about eight decades, as well 24 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 24 12/2/19 6:44 PM Shoreline West

nce considered part of downtown, Shoreline West became its own Odesignated neighborhood in the mid- 1990s. Over the years, the neighborhood has morphed from and older neighborhood with mostly single-family homes built in the first half of the 20th century into a mixed-density area that’s in high demand due to redevelopment and its proximity to downtown and many of the city’s recreational areas. Residents describe the area as diverse, yet close-knit.

Location Bounded by Shoreline Boulevard, El Camino Real, Escuela Avenue and Villa Street. Nearby shopping Downtown Mountain View; California Street Market, El Monte Avenue at El Camino Real. Who lives here Diverse mix: young, old, single, married, families.

Housing stock Magali Gauthier Mix of old and new single-family homes: Victorians, Craftsman, many larger homes built in the 1990s; multi- family units. Median sales price $1.9 million.* Anne Cohen and her son, Zyler, play at Rengstorff Park, where a Magical Bridge Playground designed for all ages and abilities is set to open in 2021. Most common neighborhood sight People testing self-driving cars; people walking their dogs. What was here before Building bridges Pacific Press, the Seventh-day Adventist publishing very time Anne Cohen would take her son to She sits on the Magical Bridge Foundation’s house, which was said to be the largest printing the playground at their neighborhood park, advisory board and has been a key player in company west of Chicago. The homes that these families it became an outing that left the Shoreline educating the community about the nonprofit built were among the first in the neighborhood. E West mom feeling exhausted and unnerved. group and its playgrounds. Neighborhood in one sentence Cohen, who has a form of Muscular “We wanted to promote change in the “Tight-knit without being oppressive.” — Mary Henry. Dystrophy that makes it difficult to move, said community and make it welcoming for all,” she Biggest change trying to navigate the playground with her son said. “This really resonated with the folks of “When my mother bought here in ‘75, this was a somewhat was nearly impossible: The sand made it difficult Mountain View.” deteriorated neighborhood.” — Doug McIlwraith. to walk, the stairs on the play equipment were The playground, now in the design phase, has hard to climb and the wide open spaces made it already pulled the community together. About Reasons why people move here “We wanted a place where we could have a dog. I’ve easier for her to lose track of her young son. $4.3 million for the project has been raised (been to) other neighborhoods in Mountain View, and “It’s hard to keep up like an average mom over the past 18 months through coin drives at this place feels a little friendlier.” — Pam Warrior. with an active 6-year-old,” Cohen said. “By the local elementary schools, private and corporate time I would get back in the car, I would feel donations and grants from the city of Mountain Neighborhood association demoralized.” View and Santa Clara County. The playground Shoreline West Association of Neighbors (SWAN), [email protected], shorelinewestmv.com. Cohen’s park experience changed after she is slated to open in 2021. discovered the Magical Bridge Playground in Cohen said she believes the playground is Parks Palo Alto, which is designed with play zones for going to transform the neighborhood. Castro Park, Mariposa Park, Eagle Park and Pool, people of all ages and abilities. It’s a playground “It’s not just a playground,” Cohen explained. Rengstorff Park (nearby). that has garnered national attention for its Magical Bridge playgrounds are gathering places Private schools inclusive design, including features such as intended to engage the entire community — from Khan Lab School, Mountain View Academy. disc swings that make it easy for parents with toddlers to seniors — through ongoing programs Public schools mobility issues to transfer themselves onto the hosted at the sites. Besides facilitating the Mountain View Whisman School District — Bubb and play structure alongside their child. construction of new playgrounds, the Palo Alto- Landels elementary schools, Graham Middle School; “I was delighted,” she said. “I didn’t feel based nonprofit foundation recruits volunteer Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District — excluded anymore. ... My son, he just absolutely Kindness Ambassadors from local schools Los Altos High School. gets so excited and can’t wait to go back the next to promote inclusive activities on and off the time.” playground, including free, staged performances. Cohen is part of a large volunteer group that “I think given the fact that so many * Sources: Zillow.com, October 2019. has been working to bring a Magical Bridge apartments are close to the park, the playground Responses compiled from survey and past interviews Playground, modeled after the one in Palo Alto, is even more apt to draw people together,” with former and current residents. next to the new community center at Mountain Cohen said. “I think this can lead to a model of View’s Rengstorff Park, which happens to community of living.” „ — Compiled by Linda Taaffe border her neighborhood. — Linda Taaffe, 2019 Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 25

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 25 12/2/19 6:24 PM Whisman Station

eveloped in 1998, the 53-acre community was part of the city’s Dvision to transform industrial land near Moffett Federal Airfield into a housing and transportation hub. The mid- density development features relatively small yards but large common areas, including parks, play areas, a pool and clubhouse. Because of that, residents say they spend a lot of time in the common areas and know many of their neighbors.

Location Central Expressway, Ferguson Drive, streets off Kent Drive, Snyder Lane, N. Whisman Road. Nearby shopping El Camino Real, downtown Mountain View. Who lives here Mostly tech workers and a mix of young families and empty nesters.

Housing stock Magali Gauthier Condos, town houses and single-family homes built in the late 1990s. Median sales price $1.31 million.* Neighbors and their dogs meet up at Chetwood Park for a daily dog party. What was here before Industrial land. Most common neighborhood sight This high-tech hub hosts dog parties Neighbors, dogs, kids at the park. Piece of neighborhood lore hen the first Whisman Station a reason for the move. Every Saturday at noon, all the people on the waiting residents moved into their newly “I look at (the traffic) and I’m like, ‘Why on list to purchase a new home had to show up at the Wconstructed homes in the planned earth are you driving cars?’” Nicole said. “There sales office for roll call. Anyone who didn’t answer the Mountain View community in 1998, Google are so many better options.” roll call was bumped off the list. was still a fledgling company operating out David, who previously commuted by car, now Best-kept neighborhood secret of a Menlo Park garage. Five years later, the enjoys a commute by bike and light rail from his Fourth of July parade; outdoor movie nights in the park. internet company emerged as a tech giant and home in Whisman Station to northern San Jose. Neighborhood in one sentence opened its permanent headquarters 2 miles “One thing I enjoy so much about the light “This is a comfortable and engaging place to be.” away from Whisman Station — establishing rail is not actively doing anything,” David said. — David Miller. the young neighborhood as a prime location “My brain can go somewhere else.” Reasons why people move here for Silicon Valley tech workers. Nicole and David appreciate the way the Proximity to public transit, downtown, tech campuses. “A lot of the people I meet around here are neighborhood is insulated from hectic urban Googlers,” resident Emily Geiger said. life, yet close to nearby shopping and dining Neighborhood association Geiger, a college student who grew up in destinations in downtown Mountain View. Whisman Station HOA, Brian Emery, manager, Los Altos and attended Mountain View High “There’s plenty of stuff within walking community management services, 408-559-1977, [email protected]. School, moved to Whisman Station with her distance, but we’re not right on top of Castro family in 2016. Geiger said she has noticed a Street,” David said. Parks staggering influx of commuters and transplants The couple often take their dog to Chetwood Magnolia Park, Chetwood Park, plus three mini parks, from other parts of Silicon Valley coming into Park for the daily neighborhood dog party, two tot lots, four swimming pools, three clubhouses. Mountain View over the past decade. where a handful of residents gather every Private schools “It’s made the area so crowded,” Geiger said. afternoon with camp chairs and a shade German International School of Silicon Valley, Yew “Even 10 years ago, we didn’t have this much umbrella to chat and relax while their dogs play Chung International School of Silicon Valley, St. Stephen traffic all the time.” in the park. Lutheran School. Part of Whisman Station’s appeal lies in “We’re feeling pretty welcomed,” David said. Public schools its proximity to public transit. The planned “You’re here, you’ve got dogs, you wanna play ... Mountain View Whisman School District — Jose community was part of the city’s vision to go for it.” Antonio Vargas Elementary School, Crittenden Middle transform industrial land near Moffett Federal Resident Cathy Loudon, who bought a School; Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School Airfield into a housing and transportation hub. town house in Whisman Station when the District — Mountain View High School. The neighborhood’s eponymous Whisman development first opened, said she has always Light Rail Station, located in the center of the appreciated the mid-density character of the Sources: *Redfin.com, October, 2019. neighborhood, offers a convenient solution to neighborhood. Responses compiled from past interviews with former residents’ traffic-related headaches. “I think it’s one of the greatest neighborhoods and current residents. Last November, David and Nicole Miller in the city,” Loudon said. “People want to buy — Compiled by Linda Taaffe relocated to the neighborhood from these homes.” „ Campbell, citing public-transit accessibility as — Josh Code, 2018 26 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

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Mtn View NH-2020.indd 27 12/2/19 6:24 PM Sylvan Park

o two homes in Sylvan Park look the same. The neighborhood Nfeatures a mix of varied streetscapes that include mobile home parks, apartments, duplexes and mostly renovated one- and two-story single- family homes with custom touches all within a few square blocks surrounding Sylvan Park, the centerpiece of the neighborhood and one of the city’s largest parks.

Location Bounded by West El Camino Real, Highway 85, Highway 237 and the Sunnyvale border. Nearby shopping Americana Shopping Center. Who lives here

Families, young professionals, seniors. Magali Gauthier Housing stock Mostly large, two-story homes developed on 10,000-square-foot lots in the mid-1970s surround the park; a mix of manufactured homes, duplexes, Marty Brewer, who lives in Sunset Estates mobile home park, said the neighborhood feels more apartments and renovated single-story homes can be community oriented than most residential areas. found beyond the park. Median sales price $2.2M (single-family homes) | $300K (manufactured On any given day, these neighbors are at the park homes)*. Most common neighborhood sight ylvan Park residents say it’s tough to find homes, so I was surprised to find a mobile home Kids hanging out with each other. a neighborhood that’s closer-knit than the park here,” said Marty Brewer, who lives in one they live in. Whether it’s preventing Sunset Estates — one of Sylvan Park’s two mobile Piece of neighborhood lore S burglars from breaking into a neighbor’s home parks. Brewer said she prefers living in “The person who built our house asked his kids to house, watching outdoor movies together or a mobile home park because they feel more invite their friends to buy the other houses in the celebrating the Fourth of July in the park, the community oriented than most residential areas. neighborhood ... The next generation of owners and kids have now moved in.” — Linda Holroyd. Sylvan Park area has always banded together as “You are right in the same area at the same a community. time and see the same people,” the longtime Best liked about the neighborhood “The Realtors brag about how close everyone resident said. Everybody knows everybody by name. in the neighborhood is,” said Linda Holroyd, who Her neighbors, Bob and Martha Greene, What’s least liked about the neighborhood has lived in the area for about 20 years. “None relocated to Sylvan Park from Palo Alto’s Traffic — too much, sometimes too fast. of our kids can act up because all the parents Midtown neighborhood in 2009. They were know each other. Everyone who moves here gets looking for a change of pace: Living in an area Best places to hang out Sylvan and Hedgerow parks. integrated into the community.” with fewer high-density developments and close The crowning jewel of the neighborhood is proximity to the services they need. Reasons why people move here Sylvan Park. As the centerpiece of the area, it is Because the neighborhood is near highways Convenient location; nice people; great foliage. a gathering place that residents say has helped 237, 101 and 85, “you can get anywhere from Neighborhood association foster the neighborhood’s tight-knit vibe. here, and most of the things we need are not too Linda Reynolds, [email protected]. “We live in the front of Sylvan Avenue, and far away. It is convenient,” Bob said. we have a nice view of the park,” said resident The Palo Alto Medical Foundation is a mere Parks Martha Greene. “It’s nice to see people of 15-minute walk from Sunset Estates, he added. Sylvan Park. different nationalities, old people, babies, young And although the Greenes said Sylvan Avenue Private schools people walking by and playing with one another.” has considerably more traffic than Midtown, the St. Stephen Lutheran School. Neighbors use the park for dancing, soccer and couple can’t hear the traffic from their home. The Public schools volleyball games and group exercises. The city neighborhood is mostly quiet, they said. Mountain View Whisman School District — Landels of Mountain View also hosts an outdoor movie However, like many other neighborhoods in Elementary School, Graham Middle School; Mountain screening at the park in the summer and an annual the Bay Area, housing prices have increased. View-Los Altos Union High School District —Mountain picnic and parade each year on the Fourth of July. Brewer said she feels lucky to have gotten a View High School. “It’s an old-fashioned Fourth of July,” Holroyd space at the mobile home park before prices said. “We take over the park.” skyrocketed. The diverse mix of housing options — mobile “Before I moved here, I was told, ‘You don’t Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019. home parks, apartments, duplexes and single- want to live in a mobile home park, because Responses compiled from survey and past interviews family homes all within a few square blocks — is you can’t sell,’” Brewer said. “Well, I paid about with former and current residents. another reason why residents say they chose to $68,000 for this home, and now the places are settle in the area. going for $150,000 a plot.” „ — Compiled by Linda Taaffe “Sylvan Park is a residential area with lovely — Alicia Mies, 2018

28 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

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Mtn View NH-2020.indd 29 12/2/19 6:24 PM Slater

eveloped in 1955, Slater has experienced a building boom Din recent years that has brought more housing, traffic and people into the neighborhood. Despite this growth, the neighborhood has retained much of its quirky Western-style charm: Wagon wheels from the 1950s still embellish the brick facades of the neighborhood’s original duplexes, and many of the homes are original.

Location Bounded by Highway 85, Central Expressway, North Whisman Road, East Middlefield Road.

Nearby shopping Magali Gauthier Strip mall on Leong Drive, retail centers on Middlefield Road and Whisman Road, downtown Mountain View. Who lives here Tech workers, young families, old-timers. Frida, 5, walks into her first day of kindergarten with a big smile on her face at Jose Antonio Vargas Elementary School on Aug. 19, 2019. Housing stock Mostly original 1950s homes; one- or two-story apartment buildings and duplexes. At long last, a neighborhood school opens Median home value xcitement hung in the air during the first a new school. $1.23 million.* day of classes at the newly opened Jose “I said let’s try to make it the best it can be on EAntonio Vargas Elementary School this day one,” Reginaldo said. Piece of neighborhood lore past August as hundreds of kids and parents Leading up to the first day of school, Middlefield Road used to be half gravel when the streamed onto the campus, capping off a Reginaldo and founding PTA members hosted neighborhood was first developed in 1955. long-fought community effort to bring a public play dates aimed at uniting the area, kicked off school to the Slater neighborhood. by a “May Fest” social, where more than 300 Best-kept neighborhood secret Families lined up at the gates of the school people showed up. Besides in-person meetups, On most weekends, you can count on an impromptu to take photos right up until the first minute of they used postcards, snail mail and word of cookout or potluck with neighbors. class, with a few of them getting gently nudged mouth — pretty much everything short of door- Neighborhood in one sentence to their classrooms to avoid being tardy. Some to-door solicitations — to prepare families for “Someone once compared (our 27-unit complex) to children showed up to school already sporting the new school, she said. Brooklyn in the 1950s: kids running between homes, the school’s green t-shirt with a picture of the Though the school opened with a lot of new parents gathered around grills in the evening, everyone Vargas Elementary mascot, the golden owl. staff members — six new teachers and one re- knows everyone, and likely has a key to their condo.” Principal Vern Taylor, outside navigating foot hired teacher — five teachers from elsewhere in — Meghan Kent. traffic and handing out high-fives to every kid the district volunteered to reassign themselves in his path, said it’s the first time he has been to to Vargas for its first year. Neighborhood association a school on its opening day. Jose Antonio Vargas, Pulitzer Prize-winning Robert Rich, president, [email protected]. “It’s a whirlwind, but it’s a good whirlwind,” journalist, documentary filmmaker and he said. outspoken immigrant rights activist for whom Parks Vargas Elementary is the result of three years the school is named, was on hand the first day Whisman Park, Devonshire Park, Creekside Park. of planning and two years of construction to of classes. The former Mountain View resident, Private schools bring a public school to an under-served area who lived a short jaunt from the school after German International School of Silicon Valley. of the district, roughly bounded by Central emigrating from the Philippines as a child, Expressway to the south and Highway 85 to the was a teen when he discovered he was an Public schools west. The area previously had two schools — undocumented immigrant, and announced Mountain View Whisman School District — Jose Whisman Elementary and Slater Elementary his status in a 2011 New York Times Magazine Antonio Vargas Elementary School, Crittenden Middle — but both were closed due to declining story after hiding it for years. School; Mountain View-Los Altos School District — enrollment and financial problems. Vargas stressed the importance of community Mountain View High School. Without a neighborhood school, families and breaking down barriers through the in the Slater area were rezoned to attend Huff, power of storytelling, which has helped him Landels and Theuerkauf elementary schools, communicate with people across the country Sources: *Zillow.com, September, 2019. fracturing neighborhoods in the area and with different points of view. making it nearly impossible to walk to school. “I wouldn’t be the human being I am without Responses compiled from survey and past interviews Sarah Reginaldo, Vargas’ first PTA president, community,” he said. “The school, our school, with former and current residents. told the Voice that she jumped on the represents the power of community.” „ — Compiled by Linda Taaffe opportunity to bring together the previously — Kevin Forestieri, 2019 fragmented neighborhood under the banner of

30 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 30 12/2/19 6:25 PM Martens-Carmelita

ith large lots, tree-lined streets and Location homes configured in a circle to Martens Avenue and Carmelita Drive and nearby streets. prevent cut-through traffic, Martens- W Shopping Carmelita provides residents a peaceful, rural vibe. It is one of the only neighborhoods in Grant Park Plaza, Mountain View Shopping Center. Mountain View where families can find a Who lives here particular amalgamation of a near pin-drop

Many longtime residents, families. Michelle Le quiet noise. And, you won’t likely find any cookie-cutter homes here, either. Rather Housing stock A hodgepodge of cottages, mid-century moderns and two- than move out, most of the families in the story homes partitioned by tall hedges and ranch-inspired neighborhood have rebuilt or renovated their fences, located on large lots along tiny cul-de-sacs. homes, creating an eclectic mix of custom Neighborhood in one sentence homes. Median sales price “It’s just got that kind of country, rural feel. You know it’s a $2.8 million.* great location for kids, if you have your kids at the school. And also if you want to build.” — Tori Atwell (Realtor). What was here before The 1950s-era Monte Vista Drive-in, which closed in 1978, Parks used to be located nearby at 1101 Grant Road. Huff Park. Most common neighborhood sight Private schools Children on bikes playing in front yards. St. Simon Catholic School. Piece of neighborhood lore Public schools Only half of the streets have sidewalks because a portion of Mountain View Whisman School District — Huff Elementary the neighborhood was once part of unincorporated Santa School, Graham Middle School; Mountain View-Los Altos Clara County. Union High School District — Mountain View High School. Best liked about the neighborhood Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019. Michelle Le Rustic and rural feel; large, quarter-acre lots; peaceful setting. Responses compiled from past interviews with former and Best-kept neighborhood secret current residents. Once residents move in, they tend to stay put. Reasons why people move here — Compiled by Linda Taaffe Large lots; ability to expand, build custom homes.

Cuernavaca

uilt on a former golf course along the Location Mountain View-Sunnyvale border during Off Crestview Drive, one block from El Camino Real and Bfive phases between 1985 and 1989, the adjacent to the Sunnyvale border. Cuernavaca neighborhood is its own residential Nearby shopping hamlet tucked away from the rest of the city. Cala Center, 1111 W. El Camino Real in Sunnyvale; Grant Park The 30-acre planned development features Plaza, 1350 Grant Road, Mountain View. Mediterranean-style single-family homes built File photo along five cul-de-sacs stemming from a main Who lives here central circle. About 62% of the neighborhood Mostly families, empty nesters, retired couples. is dedicated to shared open spaces, including a Housing stock greenbelt area, playground, clubhouse, exercise The development consists of 170 Mediterranean-inspired homes that vary in design and size. Best places to hang out room, spa, pool and tennis courts. Pool, tennis courts, clubhouse. Median sales price $1.7 million.* Neighborhood association Cuernavaca Homeowners Association, Lisa Tenover, president; What was here before Lisa Lenoci, CMS property management, 408-559-1977, The nine-hole Cherry Chase Golf Course and Swim Club. [email protected]. Most common neighborhood sight Parks Peach-colored stucco homes with terra cotta roofs, palm trees, Green belt on the property. manicured lawns. Private schools Piece of neighborhood lore St. Stephen Lutheran School. When developers announced the release of homes available for sale in October 1987, prospective buyers pitched tents Public schools outside the sales office. Mountain View Whisman School District — Huff Elementary

Veronica Weber Veronica School, Graham Middle School; Mountain View-Los Altos Best liked about the neighborhood Union High School District — Mountain View High School. “The sense of community. You really get to know your neighbors. It’s like a village.” — Peter Panfili. Source: *Neighborhoods.com, October 2019. Best-kept neighborhood secret Responses compiled from past interviews with former and Above and right: The neighborhood’s iconic The neighborhood itself — it is easy to feel like you are in current residents. Mediterranean-inspired homes. your own world once inside. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 31

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 31 12/2/19 6:25 PM Waverly Park

ost of the original residents whose homes were built in the Mneighborhood in the 1960s have left Waverly Park and new families with young children have moved in. While the neighborhood has remained close- knit, its large size makes it difficult to hold events that include all residents. As a result, residents say the neighborhood feels like it’s composed of several mini communities.

Location Bounded by Grant Road, Highway 85 and Sleeper and Bryant avenues. Nearby shopping Blossom Valley Shopping Center, Grant Park Plaza, Nob Hill Shopping Center, downtown Mountain View. Who lives here Mostly families with young children. Housing stock Sammy Dallal Mostly single-family homes. Median sales price $3.11 million.* Pat Showalter, left, Mark Wunderman and Virginia Panlasigui launched the Cooper Park Piece of neighborhood lore Neighborhood Association earlier this year. The group held its first event in September, which There used to be a 15-acre farm off Grant Road that brought together more than 100 residents. was used for a pumpkin patch before being developed in 2010. Best liked about the neighborhood Easy access to freeways, neighboring cities of Los After a well-fought battle, Altos and Sunnyvale and resources, such as El Camino Hospital. neighbors find a common bond Least liked about the neighborhood t took a neighborhood fight to bring Waverly Although the grassroots advocacy group had The neighborhood’s main streets are heavily used Park residents closer together, and the a large following and brought the community by commuters: “We are a commute route. I joke Idetermination of one woman to keep them together, after the school district-owned saying they’ll have to start airlifting food to the connected. 9.5-acre portion of the park was saved from neighborhood.” — Laura Brown. Over the past year, longtime resident Pat being developed, Showalter was concerned Best-kept neighborhood secret Showalter — with the help of residents Mark that residents would stop engaging with one Some homes have access to Steven’s Creek Trail — Wunderman and Virginia Panlasigui — has another. To build momentum for an association, which connects all the way to the Baylands — right led the effort to launch the Cooper Park Showalter began canvassing the neighborhood outside their backyards. Neighborhood Association. The former and reaching out to Save Cooper Park Neighborhood association Mountain View city councilwoman said she’s organizers. Cooper Park Neighborhood Association; Pat Showalter seen the positive impact that neighborhood “I wanted this to be a positive thing,” she said. at [email protected]. (A website is also in the associations can have and wanted to bring that “Associations make the neighborhood nicer works and should launch by early 2020.) experience into her own neighborhood. and add to our lives, and they’re just another “When I was on council, one of the things amenity that would be fun to have.” Parks I did was go to neighborhood socials ... and I In September, the association held its first Cooper Park. observed how much fun people had with that,” ice cream social: Approximately 100 residents Private schools Showalter said. participated. Showalter said other community St. Joseph Catholic School, St. Francis High School. Her desire to create an association turned into groups attended and six city council members, Public schools action after she learned that a portion of the as well as a fire truck stopped by. Mountain View Whisman School District — Huff neighborhood park that she can see from her Her goal is to host one more event this year Elementary School, Graham Middle School; Mountain front lawn was earmarked to be developed into and get a website up and running. View-Los Altos Union High School District — Mountain housing for Mountain View Whisman School Beyond that, Showalter said she is most View High School. District employees. Neighbors quickly jumped interested in seeing what kind of impact into action and launched a campaign to save having a neighborhood association will have Cooper Park. on the community and hopes the association Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019. Showalter, who was serving a term on the will grow beyond two events per year. council at the time, had to recuse herself from “I would like to see some people organize a Responses compiled from survey and past interviews the issue but was impressed by the close-knit block party,” she said. “(The association) could with former and current residents. bond neighbors had formed. help them advertise and pay for some of the — Compiled by Linda Taaffe “I was really struck by how many people food.” „ affiliated with Cooper Park,” she said. —Melissa McKenzie, 2019 32 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 32 12/2/19 6:25 PM Dutch Haven

ith the Stevens Creek Trail, YMCA Location and Cooper Park within close Bounded by Carol Avenue, Grant Road, Sleeper Avenue and Villa Wproximity, it’s not surprising that Nueva Way. many residents in Dutch Haven prefer to Brenna Malmberg Nearby shopping spend time outside of their homes taking in Blossom Valley Shopping Center, Grant Park Plaza, Nob Hill the community’s recreational opportunities. Shopping Center, downtown Mountain View. Resident Rohit Sawhney said not a week has gone by in which he hasn’t used one of the Who lives here New, young families and retired, longtime residents. trails, parks or the YMCA. These amenities Ranch-style home. typically draw families into the neighborhood, Housing stock Mostly 1950s-era single-family homes. Best places to hang out and the social gatherings and other traditions El Camino YMCA, Stevens Creek Trail, Cuesta Park. passed down by previous generations typically Median sales price keep them there long term. It’s a tight-knit vibe $2.4 million.* Neighborhood in one sentence that residents say would be difficult to find “It’s a very family-oriented neighborhood.” — Susan Chang. Most common neighborhood sight elsewhere. Bicyclists and runners going to and from Stevens Creek Trail; Neighborhood association Waymo cars collecting data in the neighborhood — sometimes Dutch Haven Association, Stephen Lin, [email protected]. as many as three in one intersection. Parks Piece of neighborhood lore Cooper Park. The 7,200-square-foot Wunderman home on Eunice Avenue Private schools was allegedly built by gangsters during Prohibition to look St. Joseph, St. Francis High School. like a farmhouse on the exterior to hide a vice operation that included dancing, drinking, gambling and greyhound racing and Public schools prostitution. Mountain View Whisman School District — Huff Elementary School, Graham Middle School; Mountain View-Los Altos Union Best liked about the neighborhood High School District — Mountain View High School.

Michelle Le Lots of family-friendly outdoor activities throughout the year — festivals, parades, Thursday Night Live, Movie Nights, Oktoberfest, Source: *Zillow.com, October 2019. Holiday events. Responses compiled from survey and past interviews with former Cooper Park. Least liked about the neighborhood and current residents. Traffic on Grant Road. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe North Whisman

orth Whisman is about as close as a Most common neighborhood sight residential neighborhood can get to Neighbors walking their dogs. Google’s main campus. And while the N Piece of neighborhood lore high-tech company’s buses may make getting One of the homes on Emily Drive was moved here from Menlo onto Highway 101 a problem at times, residents Park to replace a home that was destroyed by an airplane say North Whisman is still a great place to crashing into it many years ago. live. It’s a place where neighbors know each other by name and look out for one another. Best liked about the neighborhood Tight-knit neighbors; access to highways. Neighbors say the Wagon Wheel and North Brenna Malmberg Whisman neighborhood associations have Least liked about the neighborhood been instrumental in pulling the neighborhood “Rent out here has gotten ridiculous. There is no way a low- together as it experiences growth and change. wage worker or a low-income retiree can afford these rent prices any more.” — Mark Schulz. Best-kept neighborhood secret North Whisman town houses. Location North Whisman Neighborhood Association events. Highway 85, N. Whisman Road, E. Middlefield Road, Highway 101 Favorite neighborhood joint Parks Mario’s Italiano restaurant. Whisman Park, Devonshire Park. Nearby shopping Strip mall on Leong Drive; retail centers on Middlefield Road Neighborhood in one word Private schools and Whisman Road. “Eclectic.” — Kelley Ketchmark. German International School of Silicon Valley, 310 Easy St. Who lives here Hot-button issue Public schools Families, first-time home buyers, original owners from the Traffic. Mountain View Whisman School District — Jose Antonio 1950s. Vargas Elementary School, Crittenden Middle School; Reasons why people move here Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District — Housing stock Used to be affordable; proximity to Google, highways; Hetch Mountain View High School. Eclectic mix of older and newer single-family homes, Hetchy Trail, which provides easy access to downtown and 1990s-era town houses, condominiums and apartment the bay. Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019. complexes. Neighborhood associations Responses compiled from survey and past interviews with Median sales price North Whisman Neighborhood Association, Jessica Gandhi, former and current residents. $1.28 million.* [email protected]; Wagon Wheel Neighborhood Association, Kelley Ketchmark, [email protected]. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 33

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Mtn View NH-2020.indd 34 12/2/19 6:25 PM Los Altos

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WOODLAND 280 ACRES/ THE HIGHLANDS FACTS 2019-20 GENERAL OPERATING BUDGET $45.5 million hat once was a brief stop on the access via Highway 85 and Interstate 280 to POPULATION 30,531 Southern Pacific Railroad evolved nearby metro centers. MEDIAN AGE W after World War II into a tree-lined Known for its excellent schools and 45.9 city providing a quiet housing enclave for neighborhoods replete with mature trees, HOUSEHOLDS Silicon Valley. Since incorporation in 1952, Los Altos supports seven commercial areas 10,591 Los Altos has grown to a community of mostly serving its more than 30,000 residents. And HOMEOWNERS single-family homes, replacing the apricot and for those still yearning for apricot orchards, 83% plum orchards, a winery and ranch land. many of the city’s homes sit on quarter- MEDIAN HOME VALUE Today, Los Altos encompasses seven square acre lots large enough to cultivate your own $3.1 million (single-family, September 2018, Zillow.com) miles, stretching from Palo Alto to Sunnyvale private orchard. There’s also a weekly farmers Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, and Cupertino, sandwiched between market that offers a chance for neighbors to 2018 American Community Mountain View and Los Altos Hills. Highways interact while shopping for local produce and Survey; city of Los Altos. have replaced local railroad service, with easy flowers.

Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 35

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 35 12/2/19 6:25 PM North Los Altos

hey say real estate is all about location, location, location, and T residents in North Los Altos believe they have found their haven. Within this area, people can find a large library, community center, a performing arts center for children, a downtown filled with restaurants and shops, great public schools, and more. With the downtown triangle — known as “The Village” — located in the heart of the neighborhood, almost everyone in the area lives within easy walking distance to the city’s major attractions.

Location Bounded by Foothill Expressway, El Monte Road, El Camino Real and Adobe Creek. Nearby shopping Downtown Los Altos, Los Altos Village Court and San Antonio Center. Who lives here Mostly young families, retirees. Sammy Dallal Housing stock Mostly single-story ranch homes on quarter-acre lots. Average sales price Abigail Ahrens, who designed and developed the French-inspired Enchanté Boutique Hotel, sits on $3.74 million.* the balcony of her apartment located on the hotel’s top floor. What was here before A train stop for the Southern Pacific Railroad, which ran along tracks where Foothill Expressway is now located. Once a dirt lot, downtown corner Piece of neighborhood lore Someone once rode a horse through Mac’s Tea Room, is now a neighborhood hub a local watering hole that closed in 2000 after nearly n any given day, the small public space into a social hub of activity. seven decades. plaza outside of Enchanté Boutique “The community was starved for something Hot-button issue OHotel at the end of Main Street is (on this corner),” said Ahrens, who now The mixed-use development proposed for 40 Main St. buzzing with people eating lunch, listening lives in an apartment on the top floor of her Parks to live music or just taking time out to relax French-themed hotel. “I wanted to engage the Village Park, Shoup Park, Lincoln Park. in the sun. community. I wanted this to be a place where Private schools For those in the North Los Altos people could take their relatives.” Los Altos Christian School, Canterbury Christian School. neighborhood, it’s a welcome sight. Ahrens said as part of the purchase Prior to hotel’s opening in 2015, the corner agreement, she gave the city an easement and Public schools of Main Street and San Antonio Road at the designated the area outside of the hotel’s cafe Los Altos School District — Santa Rita or Almond northern gateway to downtown had been a a community plaza. She felt the community elementary schools, Egan Intermediate School; vacant dirt lot for 35 years after a gas station needed something to call their own — a space Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District — Los Altos High School on the property was demolished. The only where they could gather. Her vision was activity there occurred during annual events spot on: More than 500 residents eager for a when the police and fire departments would community plaza attended its unveiling. Source: *SoldNest.com, October 2019. park their vehicles on the site. Since its opening, the hotel has hosted a Twice during those three-and-a-half murder myster dinner, events for nonprofit Responses compiled from past interviews with former and current residents. decades, the land was purchased, but nothing organizations, book signings and has served was built. While not exactly an eyesore, the as a meeting space for local politicians, — Compiled by Linda Taaffe prime spot was just calling out for someone to businesses and tech startups. There’s also a develop a downtown anchor. French meetup group that uses the hotel as its Longtime Los Altos resident, real estate regular gathering place. agent and developer Abigail Ahrens saw And when the police department’s K9 the potential in the tiny triangular-shaped unit needed a bulletproof vest in 2016, the lot. She purchased the land and developed community held a fundraiser at the hotel. what she believed the downtown desperately “In the evenings, residents sit outside,

Sammy Dallal needed — a hotel with meeting space, a bistro dance; it’s fun to come see,” Ahrens said. and a community plaza. “There is something going on here all the Built on a lot smaller than most Los Altos time. ... (The community) feels like (this homes, the 19-room hotel — which is the space) is their own.” „ Main Street. only one downtown — has become a focal — Melissa McKenzie, 2019 point in the neighborhood, transforming the 36 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 36 12/2/19 6:25 PM STEPS TO SUCCESS

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[email protected] | osullivanteam.com Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 37

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 37 12/2/19 6:25 PM Rancho

uilt around Rancho Shopping Location Center, the neighborhood provides Bordered by Foothill Expressway, Parma Way, Riverside Drive Bresidents easy access to shopping and Springer Road. and entertainment without having to go to Nearby shopping downtown. Although some of the original Rancho Shopping Center, Loyola Corners, downtown Los Altos. homes have been renovated, its original trademark ranch-style homes are still a Who lives here Families, retirees. predominant fixture along Rancho’s wide, File photo often curving streets lined with lush foliage, Housing stock which give the neighborhood a small-town, Mostly single-story ranch-style homes on quarter-acre lots. rural feel. Average sales price Green Bakery & Cafe at Rancho Shopping Center. $4.55 million.* Biggest changes Parks More nontraditional two-story homes have popped up between Rosita Park, McKenzie Park. single-story homes, giving some streets an eclectic look. Private schools Piece of neighborhood lore Pinewood School, Los Altos Christian School, Canterbury Rancho Shopping Center is recognized by developers Christian School, Saint Francis Catholic High School nationwide for the innovative architecture that it introduced in Public schools the 1950s. Its informal setting, covered walkways, lawns and Los Altos School District — Loyola and Springer elementary ** storefront parking were the first of its kind. schools, Blach Intermediate School; Mountain View-Los Altos Best places to hang out Union High School District — Los Altos and Mountain View Bell Tower Cafe, Rancho Shopping Center. high schools.

Reasons why people move here Sources: *Redfin.com, October 2019; **Pacific Coast Veronica Weber Veronica “We moved here because we loved the ‘Rancho’ feeling.” — Architecture Database. Shelley Rosenthal. Responses compiled from past interviews with former and Impact of housing prices current residents. Many neighbors are holding onto their properties as long as Original ranch-style home. they can, which has created an older demographic in recent — Compiled by Linda Taaffe years.

Old Los Altos

ld Los Altos is no post-war tract. Location Instead, homes range from a Between El Monte and Edith avenues, Foothill Expressway and Omega-million-dollar Italianate Los Altos Hills border Revival to Craftsman, Tudor, Spanish and Nearby shopping a few Victorians. Developed in 1910, the Downtown Los Altos neighborhood boasts a redwood preserve and several historic homes that belonged to early Who lives here settlers significant to the area. Families, retirees. Michelle Le Housing stock Architectural mix of old, new and historic custom-built homes on quarter-acre lots. Average sales price Neighborhood in one sentence $3.88 million.* “(It) has a really strong community feeling within the big Silicon Valley, San Francisco madness.” — Christine Talbot. Piece of neighborhood lore The city’s oldest home, an 1800s Victorian, once belonged to Reasons why people move here rifle heiress Sarah Winchester (Winchester Mystery House fame Proximity to downtown; historic character. in San Jose). She remodeled the home for her sister, who owned ** Parks it until 1907 when it became the Chandler School for Girls. Village Park, Shoup Park, Lincoln Park, Redwood Grove Nature Best liked about the neighborhood Preserve. Proximity to library, parks and downtown shopping and Public schools entertainment. Los Altos School District — Gardner Bullis School, Egan Junior Least liked about the neighborhood High School; Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School Traffic caused by commuters trying to avoid Foothill Expressway. District — Los Altos High School.

Best-kept neighborhood secret Sources: *Redfin.com, October 2019; **SFGate, May 2018.

Michelle Le “Alley party” behind homes that face Orange and Palm avenues; Redwood Grove Nature Preserve. Responses compiled from past interviews with former and current residents. Best place to hang out Shoup Park. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe

38 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 38 12/2/19 6:25 PM Introducing: The Welsh Group

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#lldostbWs|à Neighborhoods | Mountain View Voice | 39

Mtn View NH-2020.indd 39 12/2/19 6:55 PM Central Los Altos

entral Los Altos is made up of two Location triangles bordering Springer Road Between Foothill Expressway, El Monte and Springer, and Clodged between north and south Los Covington and Grant. Altos. The neighborhood has wide streets, Nearby shopping tall trees and meticulously kept lawns. It’s Blossom Valley Shopping Center, downtown Los Altos, Rancho

also seen more changes than surrounding Shopping Center. Michelle Le neighborhoods — many of the original homes have been torn down and rebuilt. Residents Who lives here here say it’s not unusual for neighbors to Families, empty nesters, retirees. walk each other’s dogs, host summer picnics Housing stock Renovated ranch-style homes and complete rebuilds on Reasons why people move here and meet up with one another, depending on Reputation of schools; central location. what street you live on. quarter-acre lots. Median sales price Biggest changes $3.49 million.* Complete turnover several times. Most common neighborhood sight Parks A parade of children before and after school; people walking Heritage Oaks Park, Marymeade Park, McKenzie Park, Rosita with dogs. Park. Best-kept neighborhood secret Private schools Ray the mailman: Everybody knows him, and he knows the Canterbury Christian School, Pinewood School, St. Simon name of everybody in the neighborhood. Catholic School, St. Francis High School. Best liked about the neighborhood Public schools “There’s more green space and room per property. My Los Altos School District— Covington, Loyola, Oak, Springer husband is a gardener, so a quarter acre allows him to wield elementary schools; Mountain View-Los Altos Union High his green thumb.” — Noelle Eder. School District — Los Altos or Mountain View high schools. Best place to hang out Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019. Michelle Le Peet’s Coffee in downtown Los Altos. Responses compiled from survey and past interviews with Hot-button issues former and current residents. Traffic congestion and speeding; Bullis Charter School’s new campus. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe

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Mtn View NH-2020.indd 41 12/2/19 6:26 PM Country Club

ountry Club is a secluded neighborhood on unincorporated CSanta Clara County land tucked between the towns of Los Altos and Los Altos Hills. The residential neighborhood, named for the Los Altos Golf and Country Club, is best known for its wooded streets, large lots and country charm.

Location Bounded by Magdalena Avenue, Foothill Expressway, Permanente Creek and Interstate 280. Nearby shopping Loyola Corners, Miramonte Avenue, Rancho Shopping Center. Who lives here Mostly families, empty nesters. Neighborhood housing Single-family homes on half-acre and one-acre lots; some

with views of the fairway or Rancho San Antonio Park. Sammy Dallal Median sales price $4.73 million.* What was here before The Rev. Samer Youssef at the Antiochian Orthodox Church of the Redeemer. Hale Ranch. Most common neighborhood sight Lots of dog walkers, bicyclists, families out walking. Church rises above the ashes through community support Piece of neighborhood lore he Antiochian Orthodox Church of the Students at a neighboring Jewish school held The Jesuits (Roman Catholic order of priests) planned to Redeemer is more than a place of worship. a bake sale for the church; church choirs held build a university on the site until the 1906 earthquake TIts ornate hand-carved angels, decorative a benefit concert at United Methodist church derailed the idea. arches and Byzantine-style dome stand as just down the street on Magdalena Avenue; and iconic symbols of a time when the surrounding some people just walked in off the street to give What’s best liked about the neighborhood community came together to overcome tragedy. whatever they had in their wallet, according to Large lots; private, wooded setting. On April 7, 2002, in what seems like a story media accounts at the time. Best-kept neighborhood secret straight from the Bible, the church, located at 380 Church members, who made a makeshift tent Arbor Avenue during Halloween. Magdalena Ave., was destroyed by arson. from a tarp and continued to worship on the The event was devastating. The fire not property, hosted a Mediterranean food festival Best places to hang out only destroyed the church building, but left with home-cooked items that raised $14,000 in San Antonio Open Space Preserve; Tom’s Depot at Loyola many wondering if the fire was motivated by the first year, according to media reports. Corners. ethnic hatred fueled by the terrorist attacks of Six years after the fire, the community The neighborhood in one sentence 9/11 because the church’s parishioners were celebrated the opening of the parish’s new $3.5 “Loyola is a hidden pocket of serenity within a sea of predominantly Arab American. (Investigators million house of worship. While the fundraising change.” —Richard Blanchard. have never identified a suspect or motive.) effort for the new church has long ended, The Rev. Samer Youssef, who had joined community support for the church has not. Neighborhood association the parish two years earlier, said the church’s “People were resolved to stay together,” said Sanantoniohills.com insurance wasn’t enough to replace everything Maria Segal, a longtime member of the church. Parks that was lost. The future of the church looked “Even now, we support each other in good and Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve. bleak. bad.” But then something unexpected happened: The The church continues to be a destination for Private schools community stepped up to rebuild the church. people near and far looking to experience the Los Altos Christian School. “Parishioners and neighbors alike were Mediterranean culture and to taste home-cooked Public schools concerned about the church,” Youssef said. “The lamb kabobs, shawarma (Middle Eastern-style Los Altos School District —Loyola Elementary, Blach community suffered a lot but everyone rose to the wraps), kibbe (ground meat patties) and tabouli Intermediate; Mountain View; Los Altos Union High occasion.” (salad) during the parish’s Mediterranean Food School District — Mountain View High School. From within the remains of the fire, Youssef Festival, which has evolved into an annual event. said he found an unburnt part of the Gospel “We open our doors to the community and that emphasized forgiveness instead of anger. He welcome everyone to come enjoy festival activities Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019. believes the message inspired the community to and try the cultural food,” Segal said. come forward and provide hope in the wake of Youssef said the church is now looking to Responses compiled from past interviews with former and despair. build a community center that can be used as a current residents. Support seemed to come from everywhere: neighborhood gathering place. „ — Compiled by Linda Taaffe Parishioners, neighbors, friends and even a self- — Jonathan Guillen, 2019 proclaimed atheist, all joined the effort. 42 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

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Mtn View NH-2020.indd 43 12/2/19 6:26 PM Woodland Acres/The Highlands

oodland Acres and The Highlands Location are two neighboring areas west of Between Foothill Expressway and Interstate 280, Beechwood WFoothill Expressway at the south end Lane and Permanente Creek. of town developed on former orchards after Nearby shopping World War II. Over the decades, the area has Foothill Crossing, Loyola Corners, Rancho Shopping Center, retained its rural, wooded feel. In the early Woodland Plaza. 2000s, residents voted for a one-story overlay Michelle Le zone in a portion of the neighborhood to Who lives here prevent two-story construction and maintain Families, empty nesters, retirees. the neighborhood character. Housing stock Woodland Acres home. Single-family homes built in the 1950s-1960s on lots that range from 1/4 acre to an acre. Neighborhood in one sentence Median sales price “Everybody who lives in this neighborhood feels very lucky $2.83 million.* that they live here. They like where they live, they enjoy the neighbors, the atmosphere. It’s just a nice way of living.” — What was here before Patti Rose. The area was once part of the 44,800-acre Rancho San Antonio Spanish land grant issued to Don Luis Maria Peralta. Parks Montclaire Park, (nearby) Grant Park, Rancho San Antonio Most common neighborhood sight Preserve. Trees. Private school Piece of neighborhood lore St. Simon Catholic School. The neighborhood got its name after former land owner Public schools Edward Hohfeld tried to rehabilitate an old orchard, but began Cupertino Union School District — Montclaire Elementary planting and caring for hundreds of ornamental trees that School, Cupertino Middle School; Fremont Union High School joined the native oaks on his 100-acre property. District — Homestead High School. Michelle Le Best-kept neighborhood secret Some of the homes have views of the San Francisco Peninsula. Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019. Best place to hang out Responses compiled from past interviews with former and Bob and Diane Claypool walk their dog Annie Woodland Vista Swim & Racquet Club. current residents. in Woodland Acres. — Compiled by Linda Taaffe South Los Altos

outh Los Altos features well-kept Best-kept neighborhood secret homes in a suburban atmosphere. The The neighborhood includes a 37-home subdivision of Eichler Sneighborhood straddles two highly rated homes built in the late 1960s on Clay Drive and Alexander school districts: Depending on their home Way that remains nearly intact. Developer Joseph Eichler tried addresses, children are served by either Los out experimental home designs with barn shapes that would Altos School District or Cupertino Union fit into a rural setting here. He reportedly took up residence School District. It’s not uncommon to see in one of the model homes while the subdivision was under children and parents strolling hand-in-hand to construction There was a movement to make these subdivision a historical area, but the topic has been tabled for the time school in the mornings sharing the sidewalks being. with brisk-walking groups and joggers. Neighborhood in one sentence “The area is so friendly — there are kids of all ages on our Location street, and they all hang out.” — Paige Bennion. Bounded by Grant Road, Homestead Road, Stevens Creek, Parks Joel Way, Harwalt Drive, Oak, Truman, Miravalle avenues Grant Park, Marymeade Park. Nearby shopping Private school Foothill Crossing, Greenhaven Plaza. St. Simon Catholic School. Housing stock Natalia Nazarova Public schools Mostly renovated ranch-style homes and Eichlers. Los Altos School District — Oak Elementary School, Blach Median sales price Intermediate School; Mountain View-Los Altos Union High $2.9 million.* School District — Mountain View High School; Cupertino Union School District — Montclaire Elementary School, What was here before Robin Fries in the atrium of her Eichler home. Cupertino Middle School; Fremont Union High School District A cherry orchard. — Homestead High School. thing. ... and no lights on the street that makes it not very Claim to fame pleasant to walk at night. This is supposed to keep the rural * Steve Jobs built the first Apple computers in his family home Source: Redfin.com, October 2019. feeling of the town, which is ridiculous when you know the in South Los Altos in the mid-1970s. The ranch-style home is price of the real estate here. Only a few people adventure out Responses compiled from resident survey and past interviews now a protected historic site. of the house by foot.” —Anna De Giuli. with former and current residents. Least liked about the neighborhood — Compiled by Linda Taaffe “There aren’t sidewalks — on rainy days, that’s not a positive 44 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

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Mtn View NH-2020.indd 45 12/2/19 6:26 PM Loyola Corners

oyola Corners is like a compact town preserved in time: It has its own Lshopping district, a post office, three parks and a cluster of medical offices. And a “Welcome to Loyola Corners” sign in front of the Shell gas station on Fremont and Dolores avenues, greets cars as they pull into the neighborhood from Foothill Expressway. The residential streets that wind through the neighborhood resemble wide country roads with no sidewalks and lots of low-hanging trees.

Location A triangle roughly bounded by Fremont Avenue, Miramonte Avenue and Clinton Road. Nearby shopping Loyola Corners, Rancho Shopping Center. Average sales price

$2.55 million.* Magali Gauthier What was here before A train stop for the Southern Pacific Railway.

Piece of neighborhood lore Customers dine at Tom’s Depot, an old-fashioned corner grill that has served as a neighborhood When the city incorporated in 1952, attention shifted gathering spot for decades. north to building up the city’s downtown business district. Once out of the spotlight, Loyola Corners remained relatively unchanged in the following decades, and the Former train depot still a neighborhood stop residential neighborhood that grew around the former station retained that rural feel from the city’s earlier era. t’s been nearly seven decades since the last cream shop more than 45 years ago. “The food Where it got its name commuter train stopped at Loyola Corners, is consistently good, but I come back because Loyola Corners was named after St Ignatius Loyola, Ibut the location of the former depot, which it’s home. I’ve been coming since I moved here.” founder of the order of Jesuit priests who originally is now home to the neighborhood’s landmark Maria Gonzalez, who took over Tom’s Depot planned to build a university in the area. Tom’s Depot grill, has remained a gathering with her husband, Antonio, in 2001, said she place for generations of residents. has watched neighborhood children grow Best-kept neighborhood secret On any given day, passersby will likely see up and come back to the diner with their With an eclectic mix of residents from around the globe, groups of bicyclists gathered outside the old depot families. She came to know many of them while the neighborhood celebrates a variety of international after a ride through the nearby hills, classmates preparing and delivering lunch to them at holidays together, including the Canadian holiday meeting up there before walking to school, or Loyola, Blach, Springer and Covington schools. Boxing Day. families enjoying breakfast together after an “I ... see college kids who came here since Hot-button issue outing. elementary come back to visit,” Gonzalez In the past, residents have clashed with the city council Residents say the old-fashioned corner grill said. “We treat everyone who comes to our and developers over plans to revitalize the area’s is more than just a place to eat breakfast and restaurant like family.” commercial businesses and provide more affordable lunch. Tom’s Depot, which took over Mom’s Ice housing. “My kids used to work here, and Tom’s has Creamery and Grill after Tom Andrews Parks been a huge part of the community for so purchased the diner in 1996, hasn’t changed McKenzie Park, Heritage Oaks Park. long,” said resident Margie Cheli, who starting much over the years: There’s a lunch counter coming to the restaurant when it was just an ice where customers can still get bottomless cups Private schools (nearby) of coffee, and murals of trains that pay tribute Canterbury Christian School, Los Altos Christian School, to the neighborhood’s roots still adorn the Pinewood School, Saint Francis High School. walls. Public schools The biggest change is the menu, which Los Altos School District — Loyola Elementary School, includes everything from fajitas and tacos Blach Intermediate School; Mountain View-Los Altos to omelettes and burgers. And in December, Union High School District — Mountain View High Gonzalez makes homemade tamales at the School. restaurant. “I appreciate that they keep the diner experience alive,” said longtime patron Barry Magali Gauthier Source: *Redfin.com, October 2019. Harvey. “It’s an important establishment in Loyola: It is a bit of Americana, a mixture of Responses compiled from past interviews with former California history where different cultural and current residents. foods and people come together.” „ — Compiled by Linda Taaffe Maria Gonzalez, a co-owner of Tom’s Depot, — Jonathan Guillen, 2019 serves Kent Peterson some breakfast. 46 | Mountain View Voice | mv-voice.com

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