The following recommendations were extracted from the "Willow Glen Backfence" eList for services and resources that have been personally recommended by members of the eList community. 

Only recommendations that are explicitly sent to us for inclusion or the authors have said are "okay to quote" are included.

If you find your favorite vendor has been "aged off the list, please write to us at Recommend@WGBackfence.net and we'll reinstate your recommendation.

To use this list:

Use your web-browser's "Find" command (<ctrl>F) to search on a keyword or phrase such as "plumber" or "piano mover".  

(You might need to try variations: "car" or "auto", "cleaning" or "cleaners", etc.)

 

The various recommendations include information on the service and also a hyperlink to the person making the recommendation (in case you have follow-up questions). 

 

The webpage also lists some small local services (e.g., babysitters, house-cleaners, etc.).  For more information on these “self-recommended” providers (named in teal rather than in green), please see the Frequently Asked Questions webpage at www.WGBackfence.net/FAQ/

 

This webpage covers the period January 2016 - January 2019. 
Be sure to also check the older recommendations to find additional, "time-honored" resources -- especially if the category is empty or sparse: just follow the link at the end of each section.

 

The recommendations have been adapted from posts to the eList and are the opinions of the individual eList subscribers: they do not represent an endorsement by the Willow Glen Backfence or its owner. 

 

If anyone finds fault with any of the posts or wishes to change a prior endorsement, please contact us at recommend@WGBackfence.net.  The webpage is Copyright © Larry Ames, 2019: not to be duplicated or extracted without prior permission.

 

Enjoy!

 

~Larry Ames, WGBackfence.net website owner and eList moderator, Feb. 2, 2019

~~~

Automotive

Automobile Brokers

John Ferrante, Ferrante and Son

(408) 244-6612, 651 S Winchester Blvd, http://ferranteandson.com/

John listens to what you want and then tells you what your best options are [even if it’s going to the dealer]. I told John we were unhappy [with our old car], so he helped us get rid of that car (but he is moral too - we sold it at auction to a dealer who could fix it, not to a person who would get stuck with the lemon) AND got us a new car with no fee from him! That's service. Very fair, good guy. 

John on Michigan; 7/24/16

 

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Boat / Trailer Storage

 

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Carwash & Detailing

Diamond Auto Detail

74 S Autumn St just across from Poor House Bistro.  (408) 294-4135

They are so nice, did an AMAZING JOB. I can't find one dog hair left from my golden retriever.... She gave me a heck of a deal!!  I dropped my car off, took a nice walk home (although they would have taken me home) and came pack 3 hours later to a new car.

Lynn on Clintonia; 3/28/16

Mobile Car Wash
Devon Lewis, Eco Guyz

www.ecoguyz.com, (855) 466-3012, devon@ecoguyz.com

Just had Eco Guyz come to my house to wash my car. I highly recommend them.

Shelly M.; 8/3/18

 

We’ve been using Devon for about a year ~ very thorough and reliable. Good prices. We were going to Bascom hand wash, waited hours for $40.00 and Devon comes to our door for $50.00. Can’t go wrong.

Carol on Mazzaglia; 8/3/18

Eco Mobile Car Wash by Devon

(855) 466-3012

Pleasant courteous detail-oriented guy. Was happy with his detailing of my SUV.

Anu B.; 11/12/18

Supreme Detailworks

527 Charcot Ave.  #329, (408) 621-3161

They have done both our cars beautifully. They made my old van look like new, inside and out. They also have done our Sedan that is wrapped. Tricky job, and they did it without any difficulty. You do need to make an appt. as they are in demand. I should also add that they did the wrap on the sedan.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 11/12/18

 

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Car Maintenance/Automobile Repair

Union 76 Station

corner of Meridian and Willow. 408-267-1222

[recommended by]

Larry on Willow, 3/1/18

Ken and Bill Clark, Motorspeed West

1925 Grant St # 1/Santa Clara, CA 95050-3970/(408) 727-6631

Great service, thorough explanations of what is going on, and reasonable pricing.

They primarily work on BMWs and Mercedes and they are very informative about what is going on and what you might need to do in the future, along with having reasonable prices. Since they’ve been working on BMWs/Mercedes for so many years they know the nuances of different years/models. They are the BEST!

Peggy on Glen Eyrie; 2/18/16

  

I love Bill too. Been taking my cars there for years. They really care what is going on and fix it at a reasonable price.   Near the Coleman Costco

Jan C.; 2/24/16, 11/18/16

Michael J's

1577 Almaden Road, 408-279-3222

I have had to use their services several times (darn kids!). They have always done a good job. Cheap - no, but good.  I had the unfortunate need for four different repairs to my cars one year, and they do an excellent job every time.

John on Michigan; 1/22/17

 

Michael J’s Body Shop completed repairs on my car and did extra work on several wide scratches without charge.  

Pam on Wren; 1/21/17

B and C Auto Center

1850 Almaden Rd., (408) 267-1114

I love B and C Auto Center on Almaden Road, which is really honest, reasonably priced, very friendly and accommodating. I've used them for several years and appreciate them more and more. 

Nancy G.; 2/1/16

 

I've been going to B&C Auto on Almaden for almost 20 years now and highly recommend them. Reliable, trustworthy, fairly priced, easy to work with. They've worked on 4 or 5 different cars for us. 

Jem; 9/21/18

 

We, too, have been going to B&C Auto for years and have found them to be absolutely outstanding!

Bob on Lincoln Village Drive; 9/21/18

 

We used B and C based on several recs. Fair pricing, timely turnaround and good communication throughout the process.

Tofoi; 9/27/18

Michael, On the Road Mechanics

(408) 313-0663

Michael… is a total rockstar. I had to call because…my battery was DOA. He came out to the house in less than 10 minutes, and had the battery in hand and replaced within 5. Since it took me that long just to find him on Yelp, I thought I'd share my recommendation in case fellow WG people also need some mobile car repair.

Carey L.; 4/13/16

Kevin, Toyota Lexus Auto Service

1360 White Oaks Rd, Ste D, Campbell, 408-879-9972

He is very professional and conscientious, knowledgeable, and fair priced. His shop is impeccable and he goes the extra mile to help you understand how to care for your car. He uses genuine OEM parts. I had a major service and it was substantially less than the dealership. 

Elaine G.; 2/28/18

 

I second for Kevin. Kevin was very professional. clean, thorough in explaining his service, fair priced when we talked to him getting 60K miles service for our RX350. He was $300 cheaper than the dealer! Took the car in 8AM and done by noon. The only thing is that he doesn't wash the cars.

Anu @ Dry Creek Rd; 3/26/18

Grand Prix Motors

155 Kennedy Avenue, Campbell, (408) 364-0881

I’ve trusted Grand Prix Motors in Campbell with my elderly Mercedes since it was a baby. Juan Villareal is the owner.  He was a mechanic for race-car drivers for several years. Call him and tell him I sent you.

Nancy on Cottle; 6/18/18

Auto Repair (Audi)
Euro Quattro

2455 Old Middlefield Way, Mtn View, (650) 964-6066

Rene on Marcia; 7/30/18

Body Shops
Corky at Thedy Auto Repair

1169 N. Fifth St., 408-271-8877

Corky is still at Thedy Auto Repair ("Teddy"). I just had my car checked there and they did the smog.

Excellent service from Corky and Thedy. I do not go anywhere else. Fast, reliable and they do not do anything that is not needed

Gail on Glen Dell; 1/26/17

Gary, Preferred Image

663 Industrial Way, Los Gatos, 408-354-7673

I highly recommend Gary at Preferred Image in Los Gatos. Great work, fair prices and quick turnaround. 

Andrea; 1/21/17

Angkor Collision

1695 Angela St., San Jose, 408-286-4065

I recommend Angkor Collision on Angela St. in San Jose. Really nice guys and very high-quality work.  Great attention to detail and reasonable prices.

Donna on Terra Bella; 5/13/16

Precision Auto Body and Glass

994 Lonus St., (408) 971-4195, www.precisionautobodyandglass.com/

I dropped our car off at Precision today. Gary and his crew are amazing to deal with. They are very friendly and explained his quote in great detail. I got competing quotes.… Precision's quote was very competitive and he even beat the quote once I showed him the estimate.

Neal J.; 1/21/17, 7/17/18

Andrew G's Body Shop

920 Chestnut, near Coleman & Hedding, (408) 298-1443

Great craftsmanship, fair prices, easy to work with.

Jerry on Brace Ct; 5/13/16

Vu, San Jose Collision Center

193 Barnard unit #6 (near Tully and Curtner), (408) 286-8339

I highly recommend Vu at San Jose Body Center if your car needs any work. He is fair and does great work.  He has done work on our cars and very nice person.

Rene on Marcia; 1/21/17; 12/27/17, 7/17/18

Caliber Collision

665 E McGlincy Ln, Campbell, (408) 559-8633, calibercollision.com

They were remarkably good! I'm really hard to please when it comes to body and paint work and I couldn't find anything to complain about. They were thorough, did high quality work, and they were on time.

Brian formerly on California; 7/17/18

 

[Caliber Collision] Fantastic service, high attention to detail, excellent communication, well scheduled, nice. Worked fluidly with my insurance as well (USAA).

Julia L.; 7/19/18

Smog:
Smog Man

538 Earle Ave (off Lincoln, S of San Carlos);  (408) 999-0699; www.yoursmogman.com 

With coupon from Groupon - [Smog Man] should be about $30 total.

Karen on Blewett; 7/25/16

 

We have also used the smog man twice now...very good experiences, both times.   they were friendly, got our vehicles in & out quickly.  would definitely use them again!  

Laurie on Harmil Way; 7/25/16

Bascom Automotive

1305 S. Bascom Ave (corner of Stokes) 408-292-1200

[We use them] for smog and everything else. They have gold rating, so if your car fails, they can fix. They're fast, efficient and fair. They've never let us down. Great service, fair prices. They have replaced clutches as well as our regular maintenance.

Bob on Bird; 2/1/16, 12/4/18

Union 76 station

Meridian and Willow, (408) 267-1222

We use the 76 station at the corner of Meridian and Willow. They are great to work with.

Felecia on Curtiss; 7/25/16

Adem’s Test Only Shop

1654 Almaden Rd.

Rarely can I say a smog test was pleasant, but my visit to Adem’s Test Only shop was pleasant, price competitive, quick, thorough (he checked my oil and my tires) and pleasant, because customer service is obviously key here.  I’ll be a returning customer.  

Suzy P.; 2/16/17

Tires:
The Tire Shop / Morin Tires

661 Willow Street, 408.288.8694; www.Morintires.com

I completely agree with the compliments on Morin Tires!! The very best in the business!!

Linda on Little Orchard; 3/25/17

 

Had a slow leak in one of my tires. Went to Morin today. What a pleasure! Go there.

Randi on Minnesota & Bird; 6/1/17

Oil change
Brad's Autocare

946 Lincoln Ave., 408 217 9040

I second Brad's -- his new place is really nice, he's a great guy, and he's a terrific mechanic. He kept our vans on the road for years. now has his own shop on Lincoln across from the Flower Shop. He has kept our two Odysseys going for ten years.

Bruce off Lincoln; 4/14/16

 

Brad is great!  You will be happy. 

Susan on Plaza; 4/14/16

Chris Hart-Mobile Mechanic-

408-318-7326

$75 per hr.  Excellent mechanic. I have used his services since last June. Very honest, reliable and dependable.

Larry R.; 5/3/16, 6/20/16

Brakes
Mike Sanchez at Tire Outlet

901 S. Second St., 408-294-1836

For tires, brakes and all sorts of general auto service, I go see Mike Sanchez at Tire Outlet. He is on the corner of Second Street and Martha, a quick trip down Willow Street from central Willow Glen. He has been taking care of my cars for decades, is fairly priced and extremely honest.

John on Michigan; 1/17/16

Auto Upholstery
ABC Auto Upholstery

2221 Stevens Creek Blvd, #C, (408) 241-6800

We used ABC Auto Upholstery for our truck. They did a great job.

Bob on Bird; 6/7/18

 

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Car Rental

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Car Services

Driving Schools / Drivers Ed / Driver Training
South Valley Driving School

408-379-0321

Both of my kids used Lance Krider with South Valley Driving School. Great results. 

Doreen on Kring; 9/11/17

Driversed.com

www.Driversed.com

We used Driversed.com for two kids and had great experiences with both of them. …you can use them for just one lesson, which you must have for the DMV permit. We did more than the one lesson with them, and I also highly recommend doing a lesson right before taking the driver’s test. If you tell them which DMV you’re going to, they’ll take the driver on a trial test in that area and point out all the potential pitfalls for that area.

Julie formerly on Garden Glen Way; 9/11/17

Economic Driving School

(669) 225-2142

Another great driving school is Economic Driving School. All of the instructors are credentialed teachers. Excellent school. 

Colleen C.; 9/12/17

 

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Car Transport

Accelerated Logistics Auto Transport

http://www.autotrans1.com/

Although it's been a number of years, I used [them] to ship a convertible from Colorado.... They provided me two quote levels for two levels of transport, open and enclosed, and at the time, open transport was half the cost of enclosed. All in all, I was very satisfied with their service. 

Astrid G.; 3/2/16

 

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Children’s Activities

Activities for Kids

Recommendation for activities for young children:

·         Happy Hollow Park & Zoo 
http://www.hhpz.org
It is fabulous fun for all ages and only a short drive from Willow Glen.

·         Children's Discovery Museum
https://www.cdm.org
Fabulous fun and in downtown San Jose

·         The Tech Museum
http://www.thetech.org
Love this place. Many parents of young children avoid it since they assume only older kids would enjoy it. Lots of interactive stuff. My guy was 2 when we started going.

·         Rockin Jumps
http://sanjose.rockinjump.com
More local fun with a space full of trampolines. They have toddler time so little ones are safe.
I recommend filling out waiver and signing up for session online so you can basically walk straight in.

·         Pump It Up
http://www.pumpitupparty.com/sunnyvale-ca
Visit pump it up junior (next door) for bouncy fun for toddlers. Visit website for open play times.

·         Oakland Zoo
http://www.oaklandzoo.org
Fabulous zoo with small fun park. 

·         SF Zoo 
http://www.sfzoo.org
Has a really awesome kids playground.

·         AVAC (Almaden Valley Athletic Club)
http://www.avac.us/club/scripts/section/section.asp?NS=SS
Fitness/swim club has open swim times in indoor heated pool

·         Palo Alto junior Museum & Zoo
http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/gov/depts/csd/jmz/Great little spot. Not huge like a zoo so great for a short outing. Nice park next door as well. 

·         Kids Gym
http://www.calsportscenter.com/malone/
This place has open play times and is in Willow Glen

·         CA Academy of Science (San Francisco)
http://www.calacademy.org
Love this place. 

·         Monterey Bay Aquarium
http://www.montereybayaquarium.org
Well worth the drive! Truly spectacular place for all ages.

·         Lawrence Hall of Science (Berkeley)
http://www.lawrencehallofscience.org/visit
Fun for all the family and some spectacular views over city. 

·         Duck Pond (San Jose)
http://theduckpondsj.org
Indoor kids play center 

·         Cucina Bambini (Willow Glen)
http://cucinabambini.com
Parent/child cooking classes. Might be a little young.

·         The Exploratorium (San Francisco)
http://www.exploratorium.edu
This is fun for all ages. 

·         Vasona Park
http://bjwrr.org
http://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/fol/Pages/AnnualFoL.aspx
Great park and has a small train that takes you around the park, which also does a holiday run.  Check website for running times. Also has Festival of Lights but I recommend getting there early so you don't have to wait for ages to get in. 

·         Great America
https://www.cagreatamerica.com
We visited last Christmas and the light display was fabulous. Again, get there early so that you'll be leaving by the time all the crowds arrive.

·         Bumble
145 1st St., Los Altos, 650-383-5340, http://www.bumblelosaltos.com
Oh, and if you get hungry while having so much fun, I highly recommend Bumble in Los Altos. Fabulous food and they have childcare (for an additional fee) or you can dine outside where they have a sandpit for the little ones!

·         Hidden Villa Farm, Los Altos Hills 
http://www.hiddenvilla.org/

·         Deer Hollow Farm, Los Altos Hills/Cupertino 
http://deerhollowfarmfriends.org/

·         Emma Prusch Farm, San Jose 
http://www.pruschfarmpark.org/

·         Ardenwood Farm, Fremont 
http://www.ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood http://www.ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood#about

·         Roaring Camp (Train rides), Felton
http://www.roaringcamp.com/

·         Santa Cruz Pier
Or we love just visiting the Pier at Santa Cruz and going down the stairs (once you walk along the pier a little ways) and you will get to see the seals up-close. Fabulous fun for all ages. You should hear them before you even know they are about. 

Faith on Nevada; December 16, 2014

 

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Autism Resources

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Children's Parties & Entertainment

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Classes

Dance
Creative Culture Dance

http://www.creativeculturedance.com/

Owned by two young men who are superb dancers and even better teachers.  It’s a relatively new studio and I’ve heard nothing but good things.  Tell them I sent you!

Linda E.; 5/9/16

T & Company

2360 S.Bascom Ave. Suite F, www.tandcodance.com/, (408) 371-8266

They do a really good job teaching young children.

Robin on Nevada; 5/9/16

California Sports Center

www.calsportscenter.com, California Sports Center - Malone - WG Location - (408) 269-5437;  Cambrian Location - (408) 377-1005

They have a great selection of tap, ballet and hip hop dance classes. They also offer gymnastic classes as well as dance for kids. It's a great place and they are right in Willow Glen off Malone Rd. There is another location that also offers dance and gymnastics nearby in the Cambrian Area of San Jose if that is closer to you.

Sherri near Meridian & Foxworthy; 5/11/16

Voice Lessons
Mindy Dickens

http://mindymusic.com, note@mindymusic.com

I highly recommend Mindy Dickens. I took voice lessons from her a year ago last summer and the daughter of a friend of mine took lessons from Mindy when she was in 8th grade, I think, maybe for a couple of years.  She’s a really nice person, and she knows what she’s doing.

Julie on De Anza Way; 1/9/16

religious
Sacred Foundations, Inc.

Spiritual Center and School of Divinity; 877-877-4275, staff@sacredfoundations.net, www.sacredfoundations.net

*self recommend* Felicia M.; 5/18/16

 

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Costumes

Kristina Sablan

408-726-4404

Kristina Sablan at the Bruni Gallery is wonderful.

Jan C.; 1/10/16

 

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Daycare / Childcare / Preschool

San Jose Participating Nursery School

2180 Radio Ave. behind the community center, www.sanjoseparents.org, 408-265-3202

Their programming is wonderful. The teachers are GREAT! And the facility is AMAZING!!! They limit class size to 24 children, and when your class is there they have the entire facility to themselves. It is a Co-op, so you have to participate in the class part of the time, and because of that the cost is very reasonable. I highly recommend it!!

Robin on Nevada; 7/18/17

Baby sitting; Babysitters

Elaine P.

glendell@comcast.net

Do you need some extra time to run errands, get chores done, or just need some extra time for yourself? I'm looking for a WG family in need of someone to take care of their child for a few hours once or twice a week (4-6 hours a week).  I am a 17 year old high school Senior and have a current babysitting certificate. I am available during the day/evening and weekends. My hourly fee is $10 hour.

*self-recommend* Elaine P on Glen Dell Drive; glendell@comcast.net; 11/11/17

Summer Camps
YMCA Camp Campbell

http://www.ymcasv.org/ymcacampcampbell/

They take classes during the school year and families in the summer. You’ll have to check about individuals. I’ve been there with my class many times and was very impressed with the science curriculum and the facilities. 

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 2/25/18

 

I second YMCA camp Campbell! My 8 year old did the Sunday to Wednesday overnight last year and loved it. She wants to do full week this year.

Eric on Lansford; 2/25/18

Kennolyn Camp

Soquel, https://www.kennolyncamps.com/  

They offer both overnight camp and day camp. My 8-yr old did a week of day camp last year with schoolmates and loved it. Horse riding and trapeze were big hits. The day camp coordinates a pickup location at Willow Glen Elementary which was very convenient. We were impressed. Happy camping!

Dyan on Trona; 2/26/18

 

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Piano & Music Teachers / Lessons

Tammy Acosta

Willow Glen Way, (408) 294-8372

[Guitar lessons:]  I highly recommend her!

Janis formerly on Willow Glen Way; 1/26/16

Jessica Mitrovich, Willow Glen Music School

jessmitrovich@gmail.com

Jessica is an amazing music educator for all ages and I wholehearted recommend the Willow Glen Music School's programs.

Elissa M.; 4/22/16

Valencia

408-297-3980

I have a fun and interesting program for kids. I use games (music theory, notes recognition & values), theory sticker books, books with CD accompaniment to help them discover the joy of playing the piano. Lessons are designed to meet students' interests. … Students learn classical music as the foundation. Adults play popular songs from any era… They can also learn to play from fake books. References are available upon request.

*self-recommend*

Valencia, valencia.lie.howard@gmail.com; 5/30/16

Simon Santiago

willowstreetmusic@yahoo.com or text/call 408-507-3616

Guitar, bass, piano / keyboard, or ukulele lessons available in Willow Glen.  Over 20 years of private teaching experience.  Any age and level of experience welcome.  Weekday morning, afternoon, and evening slots still available.  

*self-recommend*

Simon Santiago; simonsantiago@yahoo.com; 1/8/17

Willow Glen Music School

408.455.8043, www.WillowGlenMusicSchool.com

Willow Glen Music School has piano, voice and guitar openings for students of all ages....… lessons are $168/month for weekly 30-min lessons.  We are location at 1060 Willow Street (close to Baskin Robbins ).

*self-recommend*

Jessica on Speciale;  info@willowglenmusicschool.com; 3/1/18

Babak Falsafi

www.babakfalsafi.com, www.sjsg.org, babakfalsafi@gmail.com

I provide classical guitar lessons for kids. I have been teaching at the California Conservatory of Music in Santa Clara which is a top level music school in the South Bay. I can bring the same quality of lessons to your home in Willow Glen for your kids. If interested in a free trial lesson please message me. I look forward to hearing from you.

*self-recommend*

Babak Falsafi, babakfalsafi@gmail.com, 6/20/18

 

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Musicians

Choirs
San Jose Symphonic Choir

sanjosesymphonicchoir.org

…practices throughout the school year on Monday nights, and performs locally at the end of each quarter. Rehearsals are at Westminster Presbyterian Church on The Alameda… We sing pieces that are challenging but not insane. People can start with us in September or January. It's a really fun group with a great spirit!  The conductor is fantastic.  We have about 120 voices.

Carol on Curtis; 3/17/16

 

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Swim Lessons

 

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Tutors

Math

Emma Blickenstaff

(408) 655-1903, emma.blick@gmail.com

…I am pursuing a Masters in Teaching and a Multiple Subject (Elementary School) Teaching Credential. … I have extensive tutoring experience in … Math through the Pre-Calculus level, Vocabulary, Reading, Reading Comprehension, Shakespeare, Literature, AP Psych, Essay Editing, and SAT Prep, ACT Prep, and PSAT Prep. [I charge] $30 per hour for academic subjects and $40 per hour for test prep.

*self-recommend*

Emma Blickenstaff; emma.blick@gmail.com; 3/28/16

Jan Helmbolt

jhelmbolt@yahoo.com

I have been tutoring middle and high school students in the area for four years and can provide many references.  I am a credentialed math teacher and just finished the last two years teaching middle school math in public schools.  I have been working with middle schoolers for over 10 years. 

*self-recommend*

Jan Helmbolt; jhelmbolt@yahoo.com; 3/1/18

 

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Electronics

Cell Phones and Phone Service

Phone Doctor

1261 Lincoln Ave, 408-320-9115

Phone Doctor is the best!  Downtown Willow Glen. He has helped several people I know!

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 9/6/17

 

Eric is great, quickly repaired my son's phone for much less than quoted at the Apple store. The Phone Doctor is a great place for speedy repairs. Once my brother cracked his screen 90 minutes before leaving for the airport…[he] got the screen replaced with time to spare. …if your phone is still under Apple warranty, beware of any third party repair.…Apple [may] claim the non-factory repair voids your warranty.

John on Michigan; 10/7/16

 

I highly recommend the Bay Area Phone Doctor on Lincoln Ave in Willow Glen. They've fixed so many things for me over the years (I've kids) and I've always been highly satisfied. He's really nice, quick, and very reasonably priced!

Taffy on Marshall; 10/6/16, 3/23/17

 

I like The Phone Doctor. Nice local business. Call for a quote. They do it while you wait.

Margaret on Palm Haven; 2/24/17

 

A second for Bay Area Phone Doctor.... Prices will vary based on the model; you can call for a quote. When we went... The Phone Doctor was great and replaced the shattered screen on my wife's iPhone 5s, in very short order. It took about 20-25 minutes. We are impressed and recommend him.

John L.; 3/23/17

 

I called the Phone Doctor … got a verdict of “sounds fixable” and an estimate.  I took the phone in and was very pleased with the quick service.  I thought the price was fair (though I’ve no basis for comparison it was certainly a price I was willing to pay to be on the road with my phone once again).

Suzy on Adele; 8/27/18

 

I brought my iPhone to Jaime today - thinking I had a cracked screen, and it turns out that it was only a cracked screen cover... Super fast repair. Jaime, at Bay Area Phone Doctor, is great! - Thanks!

Terri on Sierra Ave; 10/26/18

 

highly recommend Bay Area Phone Doctor. Open 10 - 5 and Saturday and Sundays. He also sells used phones through a colleague.

Karen on Blewett; 10/25/18

Phone Repair Shack

1417 Foxworthy (in the back of the liquor store), 408-908-0247, http://phonerepairshack.com/

They [had] the part in stock. They [fixed] it in 45 minutes. They also fix buttons and messed-up ports and whatnot, the standard range of repair services. I don't think their prices are out of line with other repair places and they're in our neighborhood and today they totally saved my bacon. Highly recommend.

Elissa on Laurie; 12/28/16

 

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Computer Home Networking and Internet Services

Don Heinsen, CompNet Services,

408-559-4000

Paraphrasing numerous prior recommendations, Don is often recommended on this list. He is extremely qualified and has a MSCE, CCNA, and BSEE. He comes to your home, and his fee is based on the amount of his time that it takes to resolve a problem. He tries to keep costs down and is flexible in that regard.

Larry on Willow; 3/1/18

 

About three years ago Don Heinsen set up my home network for me. …[but screwed it up]. He arrived the next morning, ran some tests, worked his magic, and now the TV is linked! Took maybe 30 mins. – [He] is prompt, current in his tech knowledge, and really really good at what he does.

Bruce off Lincoln; 8/25/16

 

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Electronics, Batteries, and Light Bulb Suppliers

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Internet Services and Domain-name Registry:

GoDaddy.com

They specialize in efficient and low-cost Domain-name registry.  Their website is somewhat confusing.  They also offer website hosting services at low cost.

Larry on Willow, 3/1/18

Superb.net

They specialize in full-service website hosting, but also provide domain-name registration services as well.  Even the basic website hosting includes an array of services, including blogging, email aliasing, and list-servers.  Tech support on-line 24/7.  The www.WGBackfence.net is hosted by Superb.

Larry on Willow, 3/1/18

 

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Pinball Repair

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TV Antenna & Installation

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Financial / Legal Services / Professional Services

Accounting, Bookkeeping & Business Services; Tax Preparation

Wayne Mitsunaga

1610 La Pradera Dr. 2nd FL, Campbell, (408) 378-9400, waynem@waynemitsunaga.com

… our tax man for at least 20 years.  Very professional and supportive when we had an audit. Passed with flying colors. We do not need an accountant, but several of our friends have him as theirs. One friend had a small business and Wayne did his accounting and his taxes.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 2/15/17

Steve Pyle

901 Campisi Way Ste. 380, 408-879-9990, www.cpasllp.com

Very happy with Steve Pyle. Found him from this list years ago. Near the Pruneyard.

Karen & Jeff on Blewett; 8/19/17

Linda Rost's Better Bookkeepers

https://www.betterbookkeepers.com; 90 Great Oaks Blvd San Jose, CA 95119

Linda specializes in bookkeeping and QuickBooks training for small businesses.

Our San Jose office is conveniently located only 10 minutes from Willow Glen.

** self-recommended **

Dave Collado, marketing: davidcollado2010@gmail.com; 6/14/18

 

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Credit Union

Star One Credit Union

(408) 543-5202; www.StarOne.org

I've been a member for maybe 30 years now, without any problems.  Good rates on VISA, their ATM cards can be used nearly anywhere without fee, free checking, and they offer great exchange rates when traveling abroad…they have a branch at 3136 Stevens Creek Blvd., diagonally across from Valley Fair.

Larry on Willow, 3/1/18

 

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Estate Planning & Wills

Rebecca Sue Jones, Law offices of Gallagher, Reedy and Jones

19A N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos, 408-354-1388

A few years ago we found ourselves the executors for our neighbors. It was a difficult situation and their lawyer did a fine job of straightening out the paperwork and expediting (as much as possible with an estate) the procedure. She is very knowledgeable and helped us with the whole process. She grew up in Willow Glen.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 12/8/17

Lisa Caputo

lcaputo@ferrarilawpartners.com

I would highly recommend Lisa Caputo; she has all of those qualities that you mention below [reliable, efficient, and trustworthy,  reasonable cost].

Kirsten on Glenwood; 12/8/17

Christine DeKlotz

101 Church St Ste 15, Los Gatos, (408) 354-6100

She has 25 years’ experience in real estate and trust planning... She is a Santa Clara grad and now a part-time law school instructor there. We have used Christine and Reg’s services in the past and recommend them highly. 

Dave on Carolyn; 12/8/17

 

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Financial Advisor

Kim Carson, Ameriprise

kimberly.carson@ampf.com

I would highly recommend Kim Carson with Ameriprise. She has college aged children, owns rental property, has owned her own business and brings knowledge from all of these areas to her clients. She is also very patient and wonderful with seniors.

Kirsten on Glenwood; 4/11/16

 

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Income Taxes & Tax Consultant

AdminBooks

https://www.adminbooks.com/, 408.782.9640

Tina on Monte Vista

1/13/16; 4/1-/16

 

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Insurance Agents

Kirk Stoddard, Farmer’s Insurance

1631 Willow Street, Suite 225, (408) 978-3208

I’ve used Kirk Stoddard for many years.

Kathi on Cherry; 2/10/16

Bob Pando, Farmer’s Insurance

rpando@farmersagent.com, (408) 377-3135

Bob Pando has been my agent for 20+years. He is the very best!!!  Feels like I am his only client. EXCELLENT service.

Lynn on Clintonia; 2/10/16

Mike Myers, State Farm

250 E. Hamilton Avenue, (408) 412-8585

I have our cabin insurance and business liability insurance with him, and he has a good, thorough knowledge of their policies and helpful suggestions to consider in policy design.  Plus his licensed office staff is extremely responsive and helpful.  

Carol on Curtis; 3/3/18

Jeff, Senigaglia Insurance

950 S. Bascom Ave., #2113, 408-280-2100, jsenigaglia@farmersagent.com. 

Jeff Senigaglia is an insurance agent with over 30 years of experience. He is fluent in life-insurance, commercial, homeowner's, auto, and health.

*self-recommend*, Kathryn Senigaglia, klsenigaglia@gmail.com; 5/17/16

Health Insurance Broker
Edna Vilozny, Vilozny Insurance, 

831 685-8228

Edna Vilozny … is the best health insurance agent I have ever known. She is appointed with all of the health insurance carriers in California, and she knows them well. Her office is in Aptos, but she is in Santa Clara County at least one day per week and also works by phone. She is awesome!

Carol on Curtis; 9/23/17, 1/14/18, 12/19/18

 

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Investments & Financial Planners

Kimberly Carson, Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., CA Insurance License #0G33649

1919 S. Bascom Ave #100, Campbell, 408.963.2322

I would highly recommend Kim Carson with Ameriprise. Her office is located in the Pruneyard. She will assess your goals and point you in the right direction. Good luck!

Kirsten on Glenwood; 3/10/17

Ann M Escobar, Waddel and Reed

1999 S Bascom Ave #400 (Pruneyard), 408-369-9400.

I highly recommend Ann M Escobar at Waddel and Reed.

Cynthia in Harmil; 3/10/17

 

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Lawyers & Attorneys

Employment
Marc Eisenhart

25 S Market St, 408-288-8100.  http://www.gedlaw.com/marc-a-eisenhart/ 

Marc is great!  Not only is he a gifted lawyer but, he's a wonderful person.  He is very down-to-earth, generous, and empathetic.  He does employment, landlord-tenant and other real estate issues. 

Marc Eisenhart is highly respected and has quite a lot of experience in this.  

Taffy on Marshall Ave; 1/21/17

Estate
Eddie Broitman

720-D Capitola Ave., Capitola, (831) 325-8175

For this I think you need an estate attorney ... I know a good one--Eddie Broitman in Capitola--he is very calm, honest, and thorough.  

Carol on Curtis; 1/22/18

Family Law
Rebecca Sue Jones; Gallagher, Reedy and Jones

19 A North Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos, (408) 354-1388

I highly recommend Rebecca Sue Jones.  She is a very experienced lawyer for trusts.  We have had our friends go to her and she helped us with an executor problem.  Both we and our friends have been very happy with her work.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 1/22/18

Hollis Logue, Logue Law

1550 The Alameda, #210, 408-288-7878

Hollis Logue at Logue Law is great to work with. He is very experienced and trustworthy.

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 1/23/18

Trusts
Marc Shea

(408) 298-6611, http://sheamcintyre.com/attorneys/attorney-marc-shea/

I used Marc Shea. He's in San Jose. 

Tina on Monte Vista; 3/10/16

Rebecca Sue Jones of Gallagher, Reedy & Jones

19 N Santa Cruz Ave, #A, Los Gatos, 408-354-1388, grjlaw.com

Try Rebecca Sue Jones of Gallagher, Reedy & Jones, located in Los Gatos. She handled our wills, trust and power of attorney. Great to work with.

Regan on Jansen; 3/10/16

Rich Dayton, Dayton Law Firm

408.437.7570, richdayton@att.net

I work with Rich Dayton at the Dayton Law Firm in SJ. He is very experienced and has gone above & beyond for many of them. Highly recommend!

Brigette on Glenkirk Ct.; 3/10/16

Hollis Logue

408-288-7878, Staff@LogueLaw.com

Recommend Hollis Logue

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 3/11/16

Personal Injury
Mark D. Rosenberg

mark.rosenberg@yahoo.com, www.siliconvalleylawyer.net/mark-d-rosenberg.html

I have a friend who is a really seasoned personal injury lawyer. I think he's in the process of setting up his own practice (or has).  Feel free to let him know I sent you.

Joyce on Mildred Ave; 1/7/16

William McCann

1530 Meridian (across from Rookie's), 408-269-8787

He's been in business here for 30 years. Very good at what he does. 

Linda on Little Orchard; 10/25/16

 

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Marketing

Debbie Doughtery

408-499-9904

I love her work and the work she has done for us for the Willow Glen Home Tour. She lives in Willow Glen and is on the list.

Jan C.; 3/20/17

 

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Mortgage / Refinancing / Appraisals / Loan Broker

Grant Michels, Senior Mortgage Planner, Silicon Valley Capital Funding

1475 S. Bascom Avenue, Ste 111, Office 408-558-6604, Cell 408-507-1284, grant@svcfunding.com

I highly recommend. I have used Grant to refinance my home a couple of times as well as many of my clients have used Grant for purchase and refi.  He is very good at explaining your options.

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 6/11/18

David Setti, Branch Manager, O2 Mortgage

2110 S Bascom Ave #103, dave@o2mtg.com, 408.610.3210, cell 408.605.1848

I highly recommend Dave Setti. I haven't use him recently, but I did use him for a couple of mortgages and he was wonderful to work with - on top of everything and he had my needs in mind with every step.

Tina on Monte Vista; 6/13/18

Mark Watson, Preferred Financial

925 820 5557

He is great. Prior to him we used Jay at the same company. Both my sisters and another friend also used

Preferred financial for several refinancings. They work to get you the best deal always. We have done a number of Refis with him also. Say Rene hart referred you.

Rene H.; 6/13/18

 

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Notary

Barbara Sauer

Realty World Castlerock, 1261 Lincoln Ave #114, 408-398-7069

Also provides mobile notary services.

[self-recommended]

Barbara on Hawkhurst; barbara@rwcastlerock.com; 3/1/18

 

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Property manager

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Shredding

Reliable Affordable Shredding

210 San Jose Ave., #13 (x Little Orchard), rashredding.com

His rate is $5 for a banker's box-size box. If you go there, it's easier to enter the complex from Little Orchard, just north of Barnard Ave before you get to San Jose Ave (it's kind of a 'gritty' area, but he'll get you in and out very quickly!).

Suzanne on Olive Hill Drive; 2/17/16

 

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Home Remodeling / Repair / Maintenance

Accessibility / Handicap Services & Maintenance

 

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Appliance Sale & Repair

University Electric

1500 Martin` Ave, Santa Clara; (866) 484-4810; www.universityelectric.com

We love our Maytag [from University Electric].  Great family owned business.  We've purchased all our kitchen appliances through them plus our washer & dryer.

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 11/9/17

Authorized Refrigeration and Appliance Repair

408-578-5755

I can recommend Authorized Refrigeration and Appliance Repair.  Jerry is not cheap but he knows what he is doing.

Damon on Shibley; 7/25/16

Solomon, Lara’s Appliance Service

930 Lawton Ave, (408) 287-4911

He’s very quick to respond and responsibly priced.

Carol on Mazzaglia; 7/24/17

 

Solomon & Mack of Lara's Appliance Service just fixed my oven -- I found them on the eList & want to add my enthusiastic recommendation. Prompt, knowledgeable, efficient, reasonably priced, & very nice guys.  

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 6/9/16

 

Note: As of September, Solomon is no longer with Lara’s Appliance Service.

Abe, Willow Glen Appliance

1129 Lincoln Ave., 408-298-1569

I used [Abe’s] services a few months ago.  He’s great at finding replacement parts. Give him a ring!

Peggy on GEA; 6/23/17

Richard Johnson, Appliance Repair and Maintenance

408-439-9645 (cell), 408-835-4849 (work)

Richard has helped us with washer, dryer, refrigerator and oven repairs. I recently recommended him to someone on the elist for help with a refrigerator and heard very positive feedback. I highly recommend Richard.

Laura near Bird and Willow; 5/11/16

 

We just had Richard Johnson repair our Kitchen Aid refrigerator. He arrived when he said he would, fixed the problem and left things in good shape. He is very personable and was knowledgeable. I had gotten his name from the recommendations list and I also recommend him. We will call him again, if needed.

Diane on Carolyn; 1/15/18

 

I always use ARM (Appliance Repair Maintenance). We have rental units and I have used them for all our appliance repairs over the years. They are very honest and will recommend replacement when necessary.

Patrick C.; 1/18/19

Nick Moreno

408.227.6206

For sure Nick Moreno. He takes care of all our appliance repairs & our clients too.  He is very knowledgeable & reliable as well.

Brigette on Glenkirk Ct; 12/15/16, 3/17/17, 9/29/18

JC Penney

Eastridge Mall

They were patient and helpful with me when deciding what model to buy, and when I discovered [an error I made] were super helpful in finding a solution. … free delivery, installation, and hauling away the old appliance with larger purchases... I will go back when I need to replace my other appliances.

Tina on Monte Vista; 4/22/17

A Go Home Appliance Repair

2828 Aiello Drive, Unit C, 408 831 3118

…they were great. They knew the product and were knowledgeable about the details... They were personable, polite and the product was under warranty. According to their invoice they service Whirlpool, GE, KitchenAid, Electrolux and Frigidare. These guys are really good.

Casey on Minnesota; 5/4/17

Ace Appliance

(408) 227-2600

[for Refrigerator Repair] I use Ace Appliance for my clients. 

Karen On Blewett; 8/1/17

 

I last called [Ace] at a very busy time …. While nobody could come out same day, the scheduler talked me through what the noise might be, … and Tom showed up the next day for the easy fix. I feel like I now have an appliance support system.

Barb on Blewett; 1/16/19

Johnny, Appliance Parts Company

1062 The Alameda, (408) 294-9500

Very helpful.  Talk to John Kasnestis, he is very fair and responsive.

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 11/9/17, 1/16/19

 

Johnny at Appliance Parts is fantastic!!

Tina on Monte Vista; 11/9/17

Vacuum Cleaners
Robert, Supply Works

408-655-1901

He lives in W.G. Hepa filter vacuums would be best. They have many choices.

Larry R.; 11/17/16

Sewing Machine Repair
Ray’s Sewing Machine Center

545 Meridian Ave., 408-295-6901; http://rayssewingcenter.net/

Ray's Sewing Machine on Meridian (On the left side just past Moorpark street.  He is very good. I've taken my machine to him several times.

Sue on Dean; 7/8/17

 

Ray's Sewing Machine Center on Meridian just past Parkmoor is excellent.  I have an Elna that was my mom's from the 70's and they did a wonderful job tuning / cleaning / repairing it over the years. 

Carol on Hamilton Way; 11/10/18

Juan, Juan’s Appliance Service

408-439-3263

Thanks to all who sent me referrals. Got the Job done by Juan at Juan's appliance service. Came within hour of call dx and did job at reasonable price.

Richard on Georgetta; 8/31/17

Viking Sewing Center

1232 Lincoln Avenue, 408-298-5696, http://sewviking.com/

The repair store on Lincoln has repaired my Singer and my Bernina sewing machines. They have also repaired my sergers, Babylock and a different brand. They are very nice and helpful too. They have helped me out several times.

Philomena on Bird Ave; 11/11/18

 

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Architect/Designer/Structural & Civil Engineer

Garcia-Teague Architecture

(408) 244-8368, https://garciateague.com/

Gil did an amazing job of designing what the remodel would look like, how it would integrate with our existing home, and making the most of the space we were adding/remodeling. Gil is a local Willow Glen architect. I highly recommend him.

Robin on Nevada; 4/14/17

Richard Morrison

(650) 321-3729

… did an amazing job. I…needed some tricky engineering to support the second floor. He even went with me to the City Building Dept. appt. and…I got the permit instantly... The fee for this is then credited toward his fee to do the final plan if you decide to use him for the detailed plan and consultation.

Rebecca on Newport; 10/14/16

Steve Hindergberger

408-394-1839

I would highly recommend Steve Hindergberger. He was our architect. Great design to maximize space but keep things open. He is very flexible and easy to work with. His website is Hindesign.

Sanjit on Hervey; 4/14/17

Dan Winkelblack 

(408) 370-3366, 80 Gilmore Ave., Campbell

I recommend Dan Winkelblack. Think about how you would like to use the space and not how you use it currently. Collect photos from Houzz and Pinterest to find your style before you meet with an architect to do preliminary needs design. Of course you will be limited by budget of wants and materials. 

Jan C.; 4/14/17

Foundations:
Steven K. Barg 

barg@stanford.edu, 650 334 8187

Steve is a superior structural engineer.

Gail C.; 4/2/17

Mike, Conklin Brothers Construction

http://www.cbros.net/, 21436 Shady Lane, Los Gatos, 408-761-4263, mike@cbros.net

They have fixed many foundations in Willow Glen and Rose Garden and all over the area.  Nothing surprises them. Excellent group to work with.

Gail C.; 4/2/17

Liiban A. Affi, PE, Foundation Engineering Consultants, INC.

la@foundeng.com, www.FoundEng.com, (510) 371-5019, 3984 Washington Blvd., Suite 236, Fremont

I had to use this company for soils testing with a slanting floor. Excellent work. Look at his website to see all they do. Liiban is easy to work with, reliable and brilliant at what he does. He drives all over the Bay Area and is president of this company. You won't be disappointed.

Gail C.; 4/2/17

Dave Roberts, Built by Roberts

408.340.5287

Good man, good contractor. I have done business with him for over 20 years as his drywall sub.

Chris J.; 12/5/17

Kitchen Designers
Jeffrey Hellmuth

http://www.jghellmuth.com/

I recommend Jeffrey Hellmuth - He redesigned my 1939 kitchen (took it down to the studs, kept same footprint) in 2006 and I'm still in love with the design.  He also kept me on budget.  I'm working with him now on a master bath remodel - we are in the early design discussion phase.

Lisa on Crescent; 10/9/17

 

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Bathroom Remodeling / Refinish

 

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Carpentry / Cabinet Maker

(see also "Handyman", Kitchens)

Clear Oak Designs

408-436-5448, http://www.clearoakdesigns.com/services-services.htm 

I recommend Clear Oak Designs. I had them remodel a kitchen for me including two built-in corner cabinets and a small bookcase. They do beautiful, quality work and are very easy to work with.   [They know] how to improve the workflow of the kitchen.

Tina on Monte Vista; 10/26/16

Hormoz, HB Custom Cabinets

408-628-0406, http://www.hbcustomcabinets.com/

Hi I highly recommend HB Custom Cabinets, top quality work they can build anything and excellent clean work and on time!

Elizabeth E.; 10/14/16

MD Remodeling

(650) 793-3913

I love, love, loved working with MD Remodeling for my kitchen and bath remodel. Mike and Dan are geniuses, easy to work with and excellent craftsman. They come up with creative solutions and I now love my kitchen.

Rebecca on Newport; 10/14/16

Cabinet Repair
Charlie Bozzo 

408. 568 0461

(Bozzo is pronounced bahzo not Bozo like the clown)  He called me within a day. Came over right on time and fixed it. Told me it would be a way too low price. I gave more than double what he asked for. Very, very nice man. Big shout out. … I bet he's the kind of man who could fix lots of things.

Lynn on Clintonia; 5/20/17

Molding (Moulding)
The Moulding Company

1987 Russell Ave., Santa Clara, 408-748-6968

Helpful mockups and vignettes displayed the finished product and how they were assembled from the parts.  There’s also a big shelf area filled with free samples to take home and try out.  Staff were knowledgeable and helpful. Though their prices are higher than the big hardware chains, the variety and support make this store worthwhile.  I’d recommend this store. 

Bart on Telfer; 5/7/18

Craig Nolan, Nolan Building

1227 Fairview Ave., (408) 460-8615

I recommend Craig Nolan.  We have had them do [crown molding] inside and outside work at our house.  He has a very skilled crew and they work quietly and clean up after themselves.  He is very fair and easy to work with.  He also has good ideas that we have liked a lot.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 10/8/18

 

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Chimney/Fireplace              

Batinich Masonry

408-998-0218

[Landscaping – Outdoor Fireplaces] Local Willow Glen residents. They've been in business for over 30 years.

Linda on Little Orchard St.; 1/27/17

Chimney Repair
Dave or Rich Leon, Leon Masonry

408.472.2870

I would recommend Leon Masonry. Highly recommend. 

Brigette on Glenkirk Ct; 12/10/16

 

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Chimney Cleaners / Chimney Sweep

 

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Contractors & Remodeling

Dave Roberts Construction

Ph. 408.356.2185 Cell 408.210.4363

He's actively looking to fill his schedule... and he's good too.

... I've worked with [Dave] for over 20 years, he gives a detailed bid with reasonable allowances and a schedule that he keeps. He has a great tile guy (Tom Bruno ) and a pretty good drywall guy ( me ) too.

Chris J; 12/5/16

Case Design / Remodeling

http://www.casesanjose.com/, 408-323-5300

I've used their handyman service for years and always been thrilled with the quality and professionalism. I know their remodeling division is a bigger part of their company.

Tina on Monte Vista; 12/5/16

Bob Tobiason, TRB Construction

408.605.7179

I work with [this] quality [company]. I am proud to be associated with them.

Chris J.; 12/5/16

Dale Drumm, DRD Development

408.839.3363

I work with [this] quality [company]. I am proud to be associated with them.

Chris J.; 12/5/16

Nolan Building,

408-460-8615, nolanbandd@gmail.com; License # 897342

They have been in Willow Glen for many many years. We have had them work on big and small projects at our house. Reasonably priced and very reliable and clean up after the project. They repaired our shower tub, backyard fence and done some remodeling.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 2/8/18

Ed Cribari, Cribari Construction

408-281-4120

He did remodels of our kitchen and bathrooms as well as other projects (windows etc). We will be moving away soon and will be missing Ed’s quality work, reliability, and trustworthiness. 

Debbie on Garden Glen Way; 8/8/18

 

+1 for Ed Cribari. He is reliable in the extreme - we've used him for 4 different remodeling projects over the last 15 years or so for precisely that reason. Keep in mind that he probably won't be the cheapest quote, but he usually comes in right around the quote amount unlike  most contractors.

Andrew S.; 8/8/18

Brick Mason
Armando 

408-829-5427

I just had some brick work done at my office. My husband found Armando on Craigslist. He did a wonderful job- great end product, timely and reasonable.

Linh on Hamilton Ave.; 9/7/16

Small Projects
Chris Justi

408-971-0861; chrisjusti@gmail.com, 408.209.3787

Call our local Chris Justi on the recommendation list. 

Jan C.; 4/21/16

 

Chris is great! He has done a couple of small jobs for us in the past and is easy to work with.

Bruce off Lincoln; 1/11/18

Crown Molding (Moulding)
Barry Renfro, Next Level *self-recommend*

408-482-6811

Please call my husband, Barry... Great quality work. Experienced General Contractor with terrific local references. Honest, reliable. Willow Glen Resident. Free estimate of course.

Terri on Franquette; 10/8/18

 

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Curtains / Blinds / Drapery / Window Coverings

JC Penney

http://www.jcpenney.com/window/custom-windows/cat.jump?id=cat100260243&deptId=dept20022800026

JCPenney offers free in-home consultation. I used them [for window treatments] in the past and was very happy with the results. I wouldn't hesitate to use them again. They have loads of options and work with you to get just what you want.

Tina on Monte Vista; 7/9/16

Allied Drapery

365 Lincoln Ave., (408) 293-1600

[They] did an outstanding job…They went above and beyond... The drapes still look and operate like the day they were installed years ago… the project was a huge success and the staff could not have been better to deal with in every way.  

Jenelle off Lincoln; 3/21/17

Fina Bella Draperies

408-379-1662, fina@finabelladraperies.com

I second Fina!!

Mary on Georgetta; 3/21/17

Pat Randolph

(831) 336-5723

I have used Pat Randolph for all my window treatments over the past 14 years. She has also overseen reupholster work on some of our furniture. She is great to work with and very reasonably priced.

Robin on Nevada; 3/23/17

California Blind Company

210 Curtner Ave., Campbell, (408) 559-8600

In case anyone is shopping for shades/blinds/draperies/shutters, etc., I just had a great experience with. Carry all the major brands. Nice showroom and helpful people without being pushy. Got my order when promised. A pleasant, easy experience all around!

Janice on Coolidge; 8/29/18

Wooden Window Blind Repair
Cleaners to Your Door

408-637-3311

Last year I used Cleaners to Your Door to repair and restring a full length wooden blind. He also fixed the string on another blind which I'd been unable to open. They came to the house to estimate and then did the repair and restringing and charged a reasonable price.

Gail on Prevost; 8/22/16

 

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Doors (House & Garage)

The Screen Shop

601 Hamlin St., 408-295-7384

All of our windows are authentic wood pane and we didn’t want the glass with metal panes inside. I ended up discovering Marvin Windows and Doors... They offer custom double hung windows, French doors, custom shapes, patterns, etc. They are a family owned business and have an excellent installation service as well. Marvin Windows and doors are expensive but they are high quality and preserve the look and style of your historic home.

Holly on Jonathan; 2/16/18

Belmont Doors and Windows

550 Harbor Blvd., Belmont, www.belmontdoor.com, 650-592-5987

Working with Kristina Parry. Great salesperson.

Karen on Blewett; 8/1/18

Anderson Window and Door Installation

696 Auzerais Ave., (408) 295-3200

I went with a Simpson wooden door with a glass insert for the front door, and a 3-panel Marvin Windows sliding glass door to the back yard. I am thrilled with these products, and the installation crew was awesome. Their stucco guy did a beautiful job blending the patch work with my 79-year-old stucco.

Lisa on Crescent Drive; 8/3/18

Lou’s Doors

1730 Junction Ave., (408) 436-1736

I've used Lou's Doors for years. They are the best on prices, service and delivery from my experience remodeling 3 old houses. But it's better if you go down there on a weekday and pick out what you want in person. Their phone lines are swamped most days.

Leslie on Ramona; 8/3/18

 

I used Lou’s Doors for French doors and one outside door.  Great people in the store as well as the installer.

Bonnie on Mercer; 8/3/18

 

I recommend Lou’s Doors.

Bonnie on Mercer Ave.; 10/24/18

 

Everyone I know goes to Lou's Doors. Contractors, everyone. Got Front Door here. Other inside doors are from Home Depot.

Gail on California; 10/24/18

Ed Millett, Quality First Home Improvement

tdawgdad@gmail.com, 408-500-5110

My hubby works for Quality First Home Improvement and can help you design the doors you desire. They do great work and warranty everything. Check out their Diamond Certified rating. www.dccert.org/1233. They also have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

*self-recommend*

Gina on Keesling Avenue; 8/4/18

Garage Door Repair
Steve, Mike Howard Garage Doors

479 Salmar Ave., Campbell, 408-378-5409, http://www.mikehowardgaragedoors.com/

Yes, Mike Howard (the company) is great. I just had them come out this summer to install a new opener with a battery back-up and some extra handles on my door. They are very good.

Tina on Monte Vista; 12/17/18

 

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Electrician

Ken Taylor

408-690-8637

[recommended by]

Linda on Little Orchard; 5/13/16

Chad, Hahn's Lighting Service Inc.

408-591-0056, 408-295-1755

Chad from Hahn's Lighting Services Inc. is great!!!

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 3/10/16, 5/13/16, 9/6/16, 1/31/19

 

Hahn's fixed what I thought were dead sockets in my bathroom sconce outlets…[and] wouldn't charge me for a full service because they were there for just a few minutes…. they installed an outdoor outlet on my front porch and it was just about $100… they are so nice and easy to work with.

Bonnie on Mercer Avenue; 3/10/16, 9/5/16

 

My company uses Hahn's for all their electrical needs. A very nice family ran business.

Alana on Pine; 12/20/16

 

Try Chad McDougall at Hahns Lighting & Electrical [for Installation of Can Lights]

Carol on Mazzaglia; 6/21/17; 11/8/17

 

I can second Hahn's Lighting. I've used them for several jobs.

Bob on Bird; 1/31/19

Eugene Myers

(408) 849-9147

[recommended by]

Neal J; 9/6/16

Jim Mayo, Mayo Electric Inc.

408-504-0732

I have used Jim Mayo, who was recommended on the elist, for a couple of jobs recently.  The men who work for him do excellent work and are very reliable.

Susan on Parkside; 3/10/16

Peter at Schwab Electric

408.896.3146, (408) 559-3056ø peter@schwabelectric4.com

I also highly recommend Peter. 

Lada on Britton; 5/13/16

 

I've used [Peter’s] services for years.

Nina on El Rio; 9/5/16

Barsuglia Electric

408-254-1742; 408-674-1662, rbarsuglia@comcast.net

Russ and his crew did a great job for me, adding an exterior elec. outlet.  They were efficient, clean, and best of all, great to work with! 

Anita on Lambert; 12/5/16

 

[Russ is] really good. All of the outdoor lights were on motion sensors. All but one went out at about the same time. I wanted to take all of them off sensors. Russ told me what needed to be done, gave me an accurate estimated, showed up and did a great job! I'd fully recommend him.

Pat on Cherry Valley; 1/7/17

 

I took a prior recommendation from the elist recently and was very happy with Russ Barsuglia's work. He came out, quoted the work and was able to schedule a time that worked for me to do the installation of a chandelier, four sconces and fixing a can light. Very proactive, good communication on text, email and phone.

Megan on Laurie; 3/29/17

 

I want to put in a good word for Russ Barsuglia/Barsuglia Electric.  We found him from the WG Backfence recommendations page and were very happy with his crew and their work.

Linda on Gardendale Drive; 9/22/18

Chase Frye of Chase Electric

(408) 564-2279

Yes, Chase Frye of Chase Electric installed a 240v for my clients electric car.  Great job!  Easy to work with. 

Karen on Blewett; 7/12/17

Peter Schwab, Schwab Electric

408-559-3056

He's done numerous jobs large and small for me.

Nina on El Rio; 7/12/17

Hewlett Electric

408-661-2889  

Installed fireplace outlet and an outdoor security light.  Good up front and fair pricing.  Nice guys.  Definitely will keep them in mind for future jobs.

Andy on Madrona Ave.; 2/26/18

Dave, No-Shorts Electric

408-828-2337

I recommend No-Shorts Electric. Not only do they do electrical work, but they do work in at least 20 other trades. If your house is broken, they can fix it.

Dave R.; 4/1/18

 

[No-Shorts Electric Not Recommended]

Anne J.; 9/10/18

Lamp Repair
Wright Lighting

1572 Meridian, 408-979-0800

I've had Wright Lighting (on Meridian near Hamilton) replace a lamp cord and fix a table lamp. Definitely recommend them!

Astrid; 4/29/17

 

Flickering Lights, Appliances behaving strangely, …

PG&E

1-800-743-5000

Call PG&E right away. It’s possible that it’s a broken or disconnected neutral wire [from the pole] to the house. They will come out and repair it for free.

12/3/18

 

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Fabrication

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Firewood

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Flooring Installer / Refinisher / Tile / Carpet

Pete's Floors

408/998-5303; petesfloorswd@gmail.com (email); https://petesfloors.wordpress.com/

My friend specializes in detailed repair work of old wood floors, often able to repair damaged areas with the exact-same matching old flooring boards.

Larry (on Willow); Mar 5, 2017

Joe Divittorio

408-313-3756

[Tile Installation]  My tile tech has completed [a] transformation on my fireplace. I love it!

Brigette on Glenkirk Ct.; 9/28/16

Donald Priest, DL Floor Company

Santa Clara, 408-984-7231

hardwood floors only---particularly the old ones. He is experienced, reasonable and knows floors. This is his company. 25 years experience.

Gail C.; 4/2/17

Off Price Carpet Outlet

1020 W. San Carlos Street, 408-288-7678

They deal in a lot of remnants... sort of like second hand goods, but the product is still brand new. We recommend them if you don't need a whole house (e.g. 1000s of SF) done in the same style. We were able to get a couple bedrooms done identically in a nice style for a lot less than the names on the radio.

John on Mayellen Avenue; 11/21/17

Art, Willow Glen Floor Company

(408) 529-7342

Great job. Move the furniture, do it all. We enjoyed working with Art and his crew. Tell him Rene and Dan referred you.

Rene on Marcia; 2/18/18

Clark’s Hardwood Floors

251 E. Hacienda, Campbell, 408-866-5485

Clark's took care of my 1929 era floors and did installation on a back bedroom. They were reasonably priced, communicated well, showed up on time and were quite tidy.

Leslie on Ramona; 5/31/18

 

We recently had our kitchen/family room floors sanded and stained by Clark's Hardwood Floors Co.  We were very pleased with their workmanship and crew - on time and very professional. They kept us informed about what the next step was, etc. I believe the price was reasonable and competitive.

Carol on Kiner; 8/3/18

Floors: Pete's Floors

408/998-5303; petesfloors@gmail.com;  https://petesfloors.wordpress.com/

License #396188; Lead Certification #NAT-73467-1

Specializing in:

Installation of all species of wood, including parquet, solid, engineered, pre-finished & laminate flooring, refinishing of existing wood floors, interior & exterior, sub-floor prep & leveling, repairs, borders, inlays, custom staining, stairs, consultation. 

I do all the work with my one employee who has trained with me for over 28 years.  I charge an estimate fee when I come out which, is deducted from the contract if you end up having me do the work.  Our workmanship is focused on detail.  Am an associate member of artisticlicense.org (a guild of artisans specializing in restoration) 

[self-recommended]  Pete Anderson, Owner; petesfloors@gmail.com

Specialized Hardwood Floors

www.specializedhardwoodfloors.com  408-931-4633

We offer great prices and best service, just mention wgbackfence.net. We [specialize] in hardwood floor installation, refinishing and staining. Give us a call or text, I would be glad to answer all your questions.

[self-recommended] Truong Nguyen; truongnguyen03@gmail.com; 3/3/16

Tile
Doug Mszanowski

408-896-6358

We have used Doug Mszanowski for both kitchen and bath construction. He replaced a shower for us.  He recommended a custom pan rather than tile that he had made and installed. He does excellent work and has been pleasure to have in our home.

Susan on Parkside; 1/11/17

 

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Furniture Refinishing & Repair

John Gibbs, Workshop,

500 E McGlincy Ln #G, Campbell, 408-371-7166

[John Gibbs did] ...beautiful restoration work...

John has done a couple of projects for my clients, very pleased with his work

He is an excellent craftsman, very straight forward and can do complex repairs and refinishing. Does everything from marine to old European, fine work.

Maria; 2/28/16, 9/4/16

Mark Will, Wildwood Workshop

(408) 666-6901, 408-998-4866

[recommended by]

Jan C.; 1/5/16, 9/4/16

Table Pads
Pioneer Table Pads

http://pioneertablepads.com

We got a custom pad from [their website]. It was around $150 and their customer service was excellent. 

Rachel on Hicks; 3/11/16

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Glass

Stained Glass
Barragan Glass Works 

650-222-7864, http://barraganglassworks.com/

Genaro … was courteous and responsive, came to our house to remove the section he needed to work on, put up a wood barrier and returned in a few days with the repaired section - the (clear) stained glass in our front door. He did a really good job.  

mailto:glendell@comcast.netLouise on Glen Dell Drive; 8/27/17

Franciscan Glass Co Inc

100 San Antonio Cir, Mountain View, (650) 948-6666

It's one of the oldest (and few remaining) places where the public can buy stained or patterned glass retail, and I'm pretty sure they have a service dept. as well.

Larry on Willow; Mar 5, 2017

Shower Glass
South Bay Showers

540 Martin Ave, Santa Clara, (408) 988-3484, www.southbayshowers.com/

South Bay Showers is excellent.

Tina on Monte Vista; 7/20/16

 

We just used South Bay Showers and they were fabulous!

Pam on Bird; 7/20/16

CZ Glass

2175 Winchester Blvd, Campbell, (408) 379-8501

I [recommend] CZ Glass… Mike and all of his staff are so professional in all aspects of their work. It has always been a pleasure to have them come to our house. They may not be the cheapest bid you will get, but the quality of their product and service will be the best you get!

Robin on Nevada; 7/20/16

 

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"Handyman" / Chores / “Mother’s Helpers”

Lou"a Tuaima

408-307-5096

[recommended by]

Larry R.; 2/21/17

Duncan

tr.co/duncandoesitright

Neighbor & eList member Gail recently down-sized & moved with the help of Duncan whom she found on TaskRabbit & has highly recommended.  I met him at her house & was also impressed -- very nice, capable, sensible. 

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 3/31/17

Mondo Rodriquez

408-990-6142

He’s just finished up some work for me and I can’t tell you how pleased I am. He went WAY above and beyond for me and I just can’t thank him enough!! Anyone that is looking for a handyman with extensive experience, Mondo is the guy to call.

Linda on Little Orchard St.; 3/16/17

Task Rabbit

Taskrabbit.com

Lots of people on this website to help. I have had Duncan Cook and Chris Imai help me for various tasks and they always do a good job and have creative ways of solving the problem for the project. They are artists who work at the SJSU Foundry.

Gail on Glen Dell; 4/2/17; 12/19/17

Cesar Bergos

323-805-1304

I have used Cesar Bergos for years now and he has done very good work for me.  He's timely and responsive.

Suzanne on Bennett; 2/27/18

Bob Hooks Handyman Services

http://bobhookshandyman.com/, 650.400.0443

I hired Bob to install a bi-fold carriage door on my garage last month, and the result is just beautiful! My new doors now close tight (sorry, critters) and look great.  Tyler, the foreman, has an amazing eye for detail, and ensured the installation and trim work were perfect.  Bob and team do projects of all sizes.

Lisa on Crescent Drive; 6/6/18

Jose Sanchez

408-781-7752

I just wanted to share that if you’re looking for a great handyman, I just used the services of Jose Sanchez this weekend. He was fast, efficient and reasonably priced and all around pleasant.

Linda on Little Orchard; 6/10/18

Robert Blabbas

408-426-0007

My Apartment manager. Excellent, much experience, honest, good with communication.

Larry R.; 7/30/18, 1/18/19

Oscar Jaimes, James Handyman Services

408-223-5384, oscarjaimes007@icloud.com

I highly recommend handyman, Oscar who owns James' Handyman Services. Oscar has many skills for small repairs around the home. I recommend him as do others who have been helped by him for home repairs.

Gail C.; 8/27/18

Bob Sanders

408-210-9918, bobb1sandr@gmail.com

… charges $20-$40 depending on the task. He does small tasks. Not large ones. He comes and evaluates and tells you if he can do the work. He is honest about what he can do. I am not sure if he does electrical work. Ask him when you call so he doesn't make a trip for a job he can't do.

Gail on California; 10/24/18

chores:
Elaine P.

glendell@comcast.net

Do you need some extra time to run errands, get chores done, or just need some extra time for yourself? I'm looking for a WG family in need of someone to take care of their child for a few hours once or twice a week (4-6 hours a week).  I am a 17 year old high school Senior and have a current babysitting certificate.  I am available during the day/evening and weekends.  My hourly fee is $10 hour.

*self-recommend* Elaine on Glen Dell Drive; glendell@comcast.net; 11/11/17

 

Should a handyman be insured?

In case a licensed contractor is required for your job, be sure to check that the license is active, workers' comp insurance is paid (if they use add'l people) and there aren't any complaints against the license (see http://www.cslb.ca.gov/)….[It's] my understanding homeowners' insurance policies don't pay if someone is hurt and you haven't hired the person according to protocol ….To be on the safe side, we always hire licensed businesses and check them out at the web address above. May cost a little more but we're paying for peace of mind.

Janice on Coolidge; May 25, 2012

 

A contractor does not need to have liability insurance but one of the disclosure forms that must be provided to a customer and signed off on states whether or not he has it. It's in everybody's best interest for a contractor to carry liability insurance.  If a contractor is using employees on the job, they must be covered by a policy of workmans' compensation insurance. Contract temporary labor [should] have that insurance from the agency that provides them. If the contractor does not have employees, no workman's comp is needed.  Jobs over $700.00 now require a license. Check the license number with the state at https://www2.cslb.ca.gov/onlineservices/checklicenseII/checklicense.aspx. Follow up on their references, usually best to just get their three last jobs rather than their gold plated ref's. You might also ask about a job that went south and how they fixed it. To me, that's a big one. How did they handle a problem?

Chris J; May 26, 2012

Jason Avery

408-761-7514

We have Jason Avery do handyman work around our house. He's almost always quite busy--sometimes have to wait a couple of weeks for him to schedule you in, but he's very thorough and does a terrific job.  He does plumbing, electrical, renovations, small stuff, big stuff! Work is well done and he's very efficient.

Regan on Jansen; 1/14/16

Lou Tuaima

408-307-5096, tuaima@sbcglobal.net

He did work for my friend. Excellent, reasonable and good guy.

Larry R.; 9/30/16

 

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Hay Bales

 

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Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning [HVAC] & Duct Cleaning

DunRite Heating and A/C.

 408-353-4900. dunritehvac.net 

Mike and his crew from DunRite installed a new AC and Furnace last month and I could not be happier with their work and pricing!

Karen on Blewett; 7/18/16

 

I just had Dunrite Heating & Air here to repair my a/c. I highly recommend them.  

Brooke on Dry Creek Village; 6/22/17; 9/18/17

 

Our a/c broke right before the last heatwave and he was quick to respond AND he got our unit up and running in minutes.  We had gotten a previous quote and those folks wanted to replace our whole unit! He is honest and provides good service

Julie J.; 9/18/17

 

[Mike at Dun-Rite] came out first thing Monday morning (A/C popped out over the weekend), found the problem, and fixed us right up.  He also made some good recommendations about future maintenance requirements on our HVAC system.  His communication was excellent.  I highly recommend him.

Linda on Belmont; 6/7/18

Pelle Air

www.pelleheatandairconditioning.com, (408) 800-2791

We just had Pelle Air install our A/C. They also installed our furnace and ducting. They did a great job.

Jen on Newport; 6/6/16

Bob, ABS Heating and Air Conditioning

334 Shamrock Dr., Campbell, (408) 238-7178, absheatingandairconditioning.com

I 2nd ABS.

Bernard G.; 6/18/18

AAA Furnace and Air Conditioning

(408) 293-4717

I agree -- they are terrific!

Bruce off Lincoln; 6/24/18

David Hennessee, AAA Furnace

(669) 235-3793

We just replaced our HVAC system using AAA Furnace, they were great. They even fixed a leaking pipe on my water heater for free while they were down there in the basement, since they noticed it leaking.

Andrew S.; 8/2/18

 

Agreed, we replaced our HVAC system using AAA Furnace and they were great!

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 8/2/18

4 Seasons Heating and Air

(925) 447-3112

If you, like us, have an old (80 yr+) in-floor furnace and need someone to repair it, we just used 4 Seasons... Took a while to get an appt. but guy arrived on time, got it working. Only downside, there's $100 added to repair bill for diagnostics but it's worth it for a working furnace!

Janice on Coolidge; 1/14/19 

 

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Housecleaners

Alma, Alma's House Cleaning Service

408-512-7614

I would recommend Alma for: Move In / Move Out; One time; Weekly, Biweekly and monthly; Residential or Commercial; No contract. I use her for my real estate business when clients are moving in or moving out.  She is very good and reasonable.

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 6/16/16, 8/8/16

Sisters House Cleaning

www.sistershousecleaningsj.com, sistershousecleaningsj@gmail.com,  408-509-5075

I have had a great experience with Sisters House Cleaning.  They are a small, independent group of ladies (sisters?), and they have been cleaning my house for the last few years. License#: 7395031319

Mike on Broadway Ave; 2/20/16

Maria Gutierrez

408-205-9646

She's in our neighborhood, and she does an outstanding job. Very professional and reasonably priced.

Sue on Meridian Ave.; 7/11/16

Maytee

510-825-6022

I use Maytee and love her.  She and her husband are very thorough and entirely trustworthy.

Katie on Cottle and Koch; 7/24/16

Ernie, Allbright Cleaning

408-280-1234

Allbright Cleaning is great, we use them for our clients.

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 12/17/16

Rachel E. Ashe, Cleaning by Ashe

rachelashe@rocketmail.com, 408-771-6480

She cleaned after painting and cleans after big moves. She cleans regularly also. She knows a lot and uses the correct products to do the job. She is reasonably priced. Highly recommend.

Gail C.; 4/2/17

Araceli Villa

408-509-5659

Our house cleaner, Araceli Villa, is looking to expand her business, and we are happy to recommend her. We have been very pleased with her; she has helped us keep our house clean for close to a decade. She and her assistant do great work, and we trust her completely.

Linda on Dorothy Avenue; 7/6/17

Katija Ramic

408-315-0454

I am happy to recommend someone I know and trust--Katija Ramic, a local housecleaner.  Her business phone number is 408 315-0454.

Carol on Curtis; 11/12/18

Luisa Ramirez

cell 408-396-7021, home 408-277-0981

Our house cleaner is Luisa Ramirez.  She has been cleaning our house (and two of my brother in laws' houses!) since 2006 when she came up as a recommended house cleaner on this elist.  She's thorough, consistent and never missed a cleaning day.

Regan on Jansen; 11/12/18

Sandy - 669-294-9215;
Nick - 408-250-9817

[recommended]

Carin D.; 11/12/18

Home Clearing / Liquidation
Amanda Kuzak, Kuzak’s Closet

650-646-4343.

Many of my clients have used Amanda Kuzak / Kuzak’s Closet.  She will work with you on the best solution for your situation.

Barbara S.; 6/25/18

Move It Elsewhere

350 Lincoln Ave., (408) 515-7277, moveitelsewhere.com

[Not recommended]

Karen on Blewett; 6/25/18

Silverleaf Antiques

408-205-1875, silverleaf6@sbcglobal.net

I highly recommend SilverLeaf Antiques and Estate Liquidation.  We used them to liquidate the contents of a home after a friend’s death.  They staged the house and its items, advertised the sale and then took what was left.  We soon put the house on the market.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 6/25/18

 

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Home Theater / Electronics Installation

Steve Spina

408-396-5813

Steve was recommended to us from the Elist, did some work for us, and was phenomenal. Really knows his stuff.

Sara on Michigan; 2/6/18

 

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Interior Design

Izalina Pegler, Final Touch Interiors

408-656-7049, finaltouchinteriorsca@gmail.com

She’s a wonderful designer, very professional, with great ideas. She’s experienced with construction work (mine involved putting in a stone wall with electric fireplace). And, she’s reasonable. She charges an hourly fee if she meets with you in person, but doesn’t charge for any of the shopping and researching she does. She’s also fine with you purchasing things from wherever you or she finds them (from Target to design showcases).

Julie formerly Garden Glen Way; 8/6/16

 

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Insulation and Attic Maintenance

 

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Iron Work; Welders

Garcia's Ornamental Ironworks

804 Park Ave, (408) 998-2440

We used Garcia's Ornamental Ironworks. They did a great job for a reasonable price (although electric gates are not cheap). Anytime we have had issues with the gate, they have always come back and worked with us to correct any problems.

Robin on Nevada; 7/27/16

Joe Strouss, Strouss Steel

408-660-0660

Recommending Strouss Steel, Inc.  Joe Strouss should be able to give you a quote over the phone.

Karen on Blewett; 4/25/18

 

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Junk Hauling

Nicolas Ambrosio

408-794-8226

Used to recycle metals for free but now charges a little because metals payments went down. Excellent person. Usually came out within hours of my phone call.

Gail C.; 4/2/17

Marco Sabalsa

308-393-5144

Marco is awesome! I use him for both hauling & landscaping needs.

Brigette on Glenkirk Ct.; 4/10/17

City of San Jose

http://www.sanjoseca.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/3187

Unlimited hauling but you need to make an appointment for the pick-up.

12/31/17

 

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Kitchen Remodeling & Supplies

(see also Carpenter / Cabinets)

Granite Cutting & Counters
Rafael Bermeo

(408) 836-0560

Kirsten on Glenwood; 10/14/16

He works with granite and he knows about plumbing. He has a lot of work for me and is a very agreeable person. 

Maricela on Michigan Ave.; 2/10/17

Marble and Stone Solutions

1495 Industrial Ave. (408) 288-5330

My husband is a GC and we use Marble & Stone Solutions.  They do excellent work.  Ask for Brian and tell them you were referred by Tim Edmunds Builder. 

Linda E.; 3/28/17; 8/15/17

Marble Creations

1781 Junction Avenue, (408) 452-1615

I highly recommend Marble Creations. … Anyway, they have beautiful materials, are reasonably priced, provide one stop shopping (they sell and fabricate in-house), and were great to work with.

Robin on Nevada; 8/16/17

 

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Locksmith

Modern Lock

408-294-2364; 408-979-9433, www.modernlock.com 

We just used Modern Lock & Security and they are great. Superior service, excellent rates.  [Have] help[ed] us with great service and low prices.

Bob on Bird; 1/30/16

A-Able

(408) 246-6868

A-Able is family-owned and has been in business since 1965.  One Sunday I could not get my back door to lock.  I called and the owner's son came out immediately and fixed it in about 20 minutes; the door had shifted and the bolt did not line up.  I recommend, will use them in the future.

Bonnie on Mercer Avenue; 2/21/17

Baker Lock and Key Service

Camden Avenue.

The key to our lock box went missing and our daughter needed [to get] in the box … within 3 hours. A mobile locksmith quoted me $85… I took it over to Baker and had a key made within 10 minutes for a total of $25. This is a mom and pop and son shop...literally. Great folks!  

Ginavi M.; 2/23/17

San Jose Locksmith

(408) 614-7772, https://www.sanjoselocksmith.com/

I can't say enough good things about Barry who owns "The San Jose Locksmith!"

He helped my family and I when we were locked out of our house yesterday evening (long story) --he came within 15 minutes, didn't judge/super nice, and got us into our house within a minute or so.

Tina on Ellen Ave.; 9/20/18

 

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Movers

All Reasons Movin

600 E Trimble Road, (408)240-0244 (408) 872-9776, http://www.allreasonsmoving.com

I highly recommend James Martinez [at All Reasons], James is responsive, honest and reliable. They are a family owned, local business.

Jill on Britton; 1/8/16

 

[All Reasons Moving recommended by]

Linda on Little Orchard; 4/17/16

Lunardi Moving

lunardimoving.com, (408) 849-9630

I highly recommend Lunardi Moving. They were professional, efficient, speedy, and careful with my belongings. I couldn’t have been happier with the experience. They wrapped everything securely so even my Ikea furniture held together just fine! They also provided large wardrobe boxes...

Julie formerly Garden Glen Way; 4/17/16, 8/22/16

Scott McElfresh, Mayflower

408-839-1922 

Very dependable, easy to work with.

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 8/22/16

Advantage Moving and Storage

http://www.themovingadvantage.com/, in Milpitas, 408-935-9115

Excellent movers. Great people.

Gail C.; 4/2/17

Joey Frater, West Valley Moving

408-761-1829

Try Joey Frater with West Valley Moving; great guy and very reliable and careful! 

Kirsten on Glenwood; 2/12/18, 7/8/18

Jerry Wood

(408) 373-5420

Jerry Wood moving is great. I’ve used them, locally, a couple of times.

Karen on Blewett; 7/8/18

Movers (Small Moves)
Joey and Nick, West Valley Movers

408- 761-1829

…they are very accommodating and may have a more economical solution for [small moves]. I highly recommend them for whole house moves as well.

Kirsten on Glenwood; 6/5/18

Jason P., TaskRabbit

www.taskrabbit.com/profile/jayson 

I've had great luck with small moves (1-3 pieces of large furniture) from TaskRabbit (taskrabbit.com) Both times I used Jason P (https://www.taskrabbit.com/profile/jayson) who appears to still be available and currently charging $90/hour.  He was great!

Jim (formerly on Settle Ave); 6/5/18, 1/22/19

 

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Painting / Wallpaper

Ron Hunter, Fine Line Painting

1938 Creek Dr.; 408-723-2242, cell 966-9642

[Ron] painted our 1939 Cape Cod style, steep-pitched, two story home. The entire experience of working with Ron (and his assistant, son Jon) was [excellent]. His bid was competitive, his work is gorgeous, and he has a wonderful work ethic.....plus, he is just a good guy. Ron has an "artists eye" for color and an amazing work ethic.  I won't have anyone but Ron take a paintbrush to my home.

Rita on Mercer Ave.; 4/9/17

  

Another vote for Ron Hunter. Excellent work, and a very nice person.  You can't go wrong. 

Lada on Britton; 1/6/16

 

Knows his colors and paints! Ron Hunter is the best.

Steve on Pascoe; 1/6/16

 

We second Ron Hunter! Great guy, great job, prices very reasonable! He painted our house and bathroom.

We will use him again.  

Jonica on Lansford; 7/26/17

 

We had Ron Hunter do ours and he did an amazing job, very thorough and a great price.  [Highly recommend]

Jason on Hervey; 8/9/17

Wynn Barnes

wynnpaints2@yahoo.com; Painting Contractors lic# 1001421, 408/658-4078 

[recommended by:]

Larry R.; 9/17/16, 1/26/19

 

We hired Wynn Barnes to do our exterior paint job, and he did a GREAT job!  He was reasonably priced, and was very pleasant when dealing with my sons. 

Diane on Janis Way; 9/26/16

Kevin Copley

kevincopleypainting.com

Today [Wynn] painted my new garage doors. He was quick to respond to my request for a quote, scheduled the work promptly, arrived on time this morning and did a beautiful job!  Best of all, he is licensed and his prices are very reasonable… I recommend him highly!

Kathie on Pine; 7/22/16

 

I couldn't agree more. [Wynn is a] Great guy!

Larry R.; 7/22/16

Monroe Painting

(408) 749-0525

Painted the inside and outside of our home. Also painted our kitchen cabinets. Fantastic, professional crew.

Neal J.; 8/24/17, 11/20/18

Scott Cooper

(408) 314-0034

WG native, 30+ years’ experience.  All phases of painting, sheetrock repair and texturing, acoustic removal. 

And all around great guy!!

Gina M.; 1/7/16, 2/27/17

Gary Rose Painting

408-785-1651; 408-426-4961

Local guy. Been in business for years. Great workmanship. Fair pricing. Fast and efficient.

Linda on Little Orchard; 2/11/16, 2/28/17

 

We've also used Gary Rose for other jobs and he's been great. “Highly recommend.”

Jem; 7/26/17

John Ellzey, Ellzey's Painting, Inc.

john@ellzeypainting,com, (408)210-6897

John's team renovated an old 1927 WG house made of lath and plaster and did an excellent job. It was more than just painting. It was a whole renovation that is spectacular.

Gail C.; 4/2/17

Ryan Hanson Painting, Lic #826068

(408) 499-0801, rhanson2525@yahoo.com

We have used Ryan Hanson for our inside painting on three houses now. He is prompt and does a very good job. I also like that he keeps the work area very clean and is careful of the carpets and furniture. He is especially patient while you decide on…colors....

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 4/10/17, 1/27/19

Paul Wilder, Proficient Painting

408-390-2876

We just used Proficient Painting (interior and exterior work) and were very happy.  Paul was very helpful with color selection too, when what I had picked turned out to be not quite right.

Linda E.; 8/24/17

Bill's Brush Works

bill@bbw3.biz

Bill's Brush Works did an awesome job painting our home — the crew was tidy, responsive and reasonably priced, and they finished ahead of schedule. 

Rachel W.; 3/27/18

Jose and Lou Saavedra, Pride Painting

408-655-0112, (408) 314-0178; loupridepainting@yahoo.com

I just had a great experience with Pride Painting. They did an excellent job. They patched stucco, painted the house, the wrought iron trim, and sealed the redwood fence for a very reasonable price. They were responsive and tidy and wonderful to work with.

Tina on Monte Vista; 11/19/18, 1/26/19

Atlas Painting

169 Chateau la Salle Dr, (408) 569-2764, https://www.facebook.com/AtlasPaintingSanJose/  

We had an amazing experience with Raymond from Atlas Painting in SJ. There aren't a ton of pics on their FB page but he did a phenomenal job painting every room in our house, and he was fast.

Lindsay on Gundersen; 11/20/18

Wynn Barnes

408 658 4078

If you would like to meet to see pictures and references with phone numbers. I'd like that.

*self-recommend*

Wynn on Altamont: wynnpaints2@yahoo.com; 4/1/18

 

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Plasterer / Drywall / Masonry / Sheet Rock / Stucco

Chris Justi

1030 Clintonia Avenue; (408) 971-0861; chrisjusti@covad.net; Cell 408.209.3787

[Chris Justi is the] Best drywall technician in the valley.

Jan C; 12/12/16, 10/28/18

 

I recommend Chris too. He did my drywall before too.

Ashley G.; 10/28/18

Jim Garcia

(831) 999-0257, jimmycanfix@gmail.com.

…He’s a contractor who specializes in small jobs and is very responsive.  Several of my friends have used him and rave about him!  His office is in Hollister and his working range is Santa Clara County, Santa Cruz County, San Benito County, San Mateo County, and San Francisco County.

Carol on Curtis; 12/13/16

Chris Justi Drywall *self-recommend*

chrisjusti@gmail.com, 408.209.3787

My name is Chris Justi and I'm a drywall contractor. I work by myself so I take smallish jobs …. give me a text back at the phone number [above] and we can set up an appointment for me to come by and take a look at it and tell you what I think.

Chris on Clintonia; chrisjusti@gmail.com; 10/28/18

 

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Plumbers, Plumbing / Sewer Blockage

Robert Moomau

1177 Branham Lane #152, SJ; 408-396-3837 http://moomauplumbing.com/

[We] needed a water heater over a holiday weekend and they [Moomau] saved the day for us. We called them again for a small job in a bathroom and they were fantastic.

We've used [Moomau] several times and love the service and price. They have replaced sinks for us and did a great job.

Bob on Bird; 1/3/16

 

Moomau is our go to plumber!

Neal J.; 1/3/16; 11/27/17, 7/6/18

 

We’ve had very good luck with Moomau too.  They’ve replaced a water heater for us, replaced our old toilets with new, and changed out grungy old bathroom fixtures.  They also helped with an entire bathroom remodel for my in-laws, who are very happy with them as well.  And, they’re very nice too!

Karin on Crescent; 1/4/16

 

Moomau, absolutely!

Nancy on Cottle; 7/6/18, 10/22/18

 

Moomau [replaced my main water line] for me too (assuming that's what the pipe from the street to the house is called), also about 3 years ago.  Prompt response, good work, fair price, nice people.

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 10/21/18

Dave Reinoehl 

408-828-2337, dackiridave@sbcglobal.net 

Arriving with an assistant, [Dave] quickly resolved my emergency issue. Most noteworthy, he only changed a very reasonable rate, even though it was a Friday afternoon before a major holiday. 

Spencer on Glenwood; 5/31/16

Matt Patrick, Arroyo Plumbing

650 Lincoln Ave., 408-278-0170; 408.674.0835

Arroyo Plumbing would be my next recommendation after Moomau. … They have been speedy for us both with service and invoicing.

Brigette on Glenkirk Ct; 6/21/16

Paul Coleman, PC Works

408-234-6672

Paul came to our house within an hour, found the root cause, put in the quick fix to hold us over the holidays, and the cost was VERY reasonable. I would recommend Paul … as a great resource.

Dan on Greencreek; 1/4/16

 

Paul has done great work for us. He replaced a gas line…, did copper pipe replacements, installed new water heaters, did [roof repair] around the chimney as well as other things. VERY nice, extremely detailed in his work and billing statements, and prompt. He can do small jobs (like ours) or much bigger. He will text you right back.

Lynn on Clintonia; 3/28/16

Drain Masters

4960 Almaden Expressway #163, 408 629-1453

If you are in need of having a clogged sink opened, or other drains, I recommend "Drain Masters".  We've had them come out twice, and both times they were able to come on the day we called.  Pricing was fair, and they were able to get the job done quickly and without a lot of mess.

Lorraine on Newport; 5/2/16, 11/23/18

 

Thanks to a recommendation on WGBackfence, I called Drain Masters for a stopped up sewer line today.  They arrived within one hour of my call and had the line snaked and free within an hour of arrival.  Count me as another satisfied customer!

Kathie on Pine; 8/5/17

Santos Gomez, Go-Mez

408-849-7292

Give Santos Gomez of Go-Mez plumbing a call.  He has done small and large projects for us and for our neighbors and friends.  He is competent, thorough, on-time and a very nice person! 

Regan on Jansen; 3/10/17; 11/26/17

Kevin Garza, San Jose Plumbing

408-296-1820

Kevin has been creative in solving many plumbing problems in my 1927 house. He gives discounts to seniors. He does the jobs himself and has been in the business 40 years.  He knows just about everything plumbing.

Gail C.; 4/2/17

Speed Drain 

(408) 378-5309

Everyone was busy so I called Speed Drain. Lucille (a very nice gentleman) fixed my 60 year old bathroom pipe for $600 less than another company had given me an estimate for. As importantly, he came two hours after I called. He fixed it in less than 40 minutes.

Eileen on Thrasher Lane; 6/28/17

Mike Counsil Plumbers

www.counsilplumbing.com; (408) 272-2272

If you need plumbing work done, I recommend Mike Counsil Plumbers. They recently replaced all the 70-year-old, leaking, terra cotta pipes under my home.  

Carol on Prevost St.; 4/21/18

Crown Plumbing

405 Meridian Ave., 408-713-6606, www.crownplumbingsanjose.com   

This is a big cheer for Crown Plumbing referred by Moomau. They arrived on schedule, fixed a stubborn and difficult drain blockage promptly and for the price quoted. Also they were pleasant and easy to deal with. I highly recommend them.

Nina on El Rio; 11/26/18

Rick's Plumbing and Drain

(408) 903-7812

…a local plumbing company, and we do residential and commercial plumbing.

*self-recommend*

Kayte; kayte.hcp.cpa@gmail.com; 4/2/18

Plumbing Fixtures
Rubenstein Supply

1939 Monterey Rd #16, San Jose, 408-294-6614

Neal on Prevost; 4/5/17

The Plumbing Gallery

3155 S. Bascom, 408-559-1792 

Great selection & service.

Linda E.; 4/5/17

 

The Plumbing Gallery [also recommended by]

Cheryl on Glenfield Dr.; 4/5/17

 

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Remodeling

also see "Contractors"

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Roofing & Gutters

Lindy Roofing Co. Inc.

476 W. Taylor Street. San Jose, CA 95110; Tel: (408) 286-9990 http://www.lindyroofing.com

I too am quite happy with my new Lindy roof!  In only two days, they removed the old roof, repaired the rot and damage, installed additional vents and valleys, roofed, and cleaned up.  It looks great, and now it doesn't leak!

We used Corning/Duration-Premium fiberglass shingles (Color: Driftwood) to replace the wood shakes on the rental, and it nicely matches the neighboring houses.

Larry on Willow; 3/1/18

Lozano Roofing Service

408-807-8750

I want to share a great experience we had with Lozano Roofing Service. Cesar came out quick and diagnosed the problem that caused our roof to leak. Reliable, honest and affordable.

Jennifer on Guadalupe; 12/21/16

Steve Ash, Bill Hamilton Roofing

408.510.2709

[recommended by]

Brigette O.; 2/20/17

Gutter Cleaning
John DiMarco, All Rain Gutter Cleaning

408-209-8034

We just had John DiMarco clean our roof and gutters.  It was a very big task (we live under a huge redwood tree), but he did a great job and cleaned up thoroughly afterwards.  He's also a really nice guy. 

Eric on Hicks; 1/14/16

 

I second John and All Rain Gutters. He took care of me for years always a great job by a great guy. 

Sunday, formerly of Malone Road; 1/14/16

 

And I third that!  I got John’s name from this wonderful e-list, and he’s been fantastic.

Suzanne on Brace; 1/15/16

Tim Thielbar.  

(408) 332-2235. 

He's cleaned my gutters for several years. 

Cris on Nomark; 1/27/16

J.R.’s Window Cleaning Service

408-288-5532, www.jrs-windowcleaning.com

We have used JR Window Cleaning for several years now.  He does Gutter Cleaning, Solar Panel Cleaning and Window Cleaning. Our house is a two story Tudor with a 12 by 12 pitched roof and solar panels.  Not a problem for him.  He is prompt, does it all in one day, and doesn’t leave a mess….

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 12/28/18

Carol’s sons

carolincalifornia@hotmail.com

My sons (age 17 & 23) have done this messy task for my aunts & our neighbors in WG as well as several elisters over the past few years. They have done single & 2 story houses, houses with roof access or with a ladder, etc.  They have ladders and the equipment needed.

[self-recommend] Carol on Hamilton; carolincalifornia@hotmail.com; 2/1/16

 

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Rug and Carpet Cleaning

Deluxe Dye Works

1488 N 4th St, 408-453-1054; http://www.deluxedyeworks.com/

We had our living room area rug cleaned at Deluxe Dye Works. It is the second time we've used them and we're very happy with them.  Our rug is a hand woven, two-sided rug from Greece and it's tricky to dry without distorting the shape. They do a great job. I highly recommend them.

Regan on Jansen; 7/23/14; 12/14/16, 4/21/17; 4/28/18

 

I second Deluxe Dye Works. They cleaned a group of Indian rugs for me a couple of years ago. 

Bruce off Lincoln; 12/14/16

 

I second the recommendation for Deluxe.

Norvelle B.; 12/14/16

Ben Gafour, Referral Carpet Care

408-688-6999

I highly recommend [Ben Gafour] … He has cleaned my beautiful area rugs and upholstery for many years. I also have him clean my clients’ rugs and upholstery, including very expensive Persian rugs. Excellent results, service and prices.

Karen on Blewett; 11/1/16

Bob Harris, Pro Care Carpets

408.799.8897

I have worked with Bob Harris (owner/operator) of Pro Care Carpets for more than 20 years. He cleans carpets/grout/upholstery. He is very good, great prices & very accommodating. Highly recommend. 

Brigette on Glenkirk Ct; 11/7/17

Magic Steam

408-377-8006

I have been using Magic Steam for over 15 years and I love them.

Kari N.; 10/19/17

Mark Daniels, Action Brothers Carpet Cleaning

(408) 779-9076

I’ve used Mark Daniels with Action Brothers Carpet Cleaning for years. Call and see how soon he can get you in. 

Carol on Mazzaglia; 10/19/17

Carpet Savers

(650) 964-3871

Jeff at Carpet Savers is fantastic!

Cathy formerly at Willow Street; 11/19/16

Elegant Thread Carpet Care

265 Sobrante Way Suite S, Sunnyvale, 408-773-8624, 650-961-1339, http://www.elegant-carpetcare.com/

I highly recommend Elegant Thread Carpet Care.  We have used them for years.  A couple of Christmases ago they were able to get a red wine spill out of my white carpet!  

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 10/19/17, 7/20/18, 8/6/18

 

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Security Systems

AG Security systems

800 255 4273

We have used AG Security systems for several years and like them. No issues and prompt responses. You can reach them at 800 255 4273 and you can certainly use my name.

Jonica on Lansford Avenue; 8/26/18

 

Door-to-Door Security system sales– Scam!

...sales reps are working the area to install "free" security systems and upgrades to existing systems. They want to install systems same day. They prey on the elderly and disabled, and their reps lie about their contracts, making it difficult to cancel their services.

Wendy on Pine; June 1, 2010

 

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Solar Energy

Maria Chacon, RePower by Solar Universe.

(925) 658-8377

[recommended by:]

Neal J.; 7/16/16

SunWork

477 Valley Way, Milpitas, (650) 520-9918

They're a non-profit that targets customers w/ electric bills less than $100/mo. There are no homeowner income restrictions. They use paid staff plus volunteer labor which helps them be a low cost provider--the lowest (significantly) of the estimates I got. They took care of everything--from permit to the inspection. Great group to work with.

Vern on Laurie Ave.; 1/26/17

 

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Surveyor

 

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Termite & Pest Control / Exterminators

Kim or Sabrina, Preferred Termite Services

408.532.6299

I highly recommend [Preferred Termite’s] services…The gas used was specific to the termites.  We no longer have a termite problem. After having our house tented, it was surprisingly uneventful… No odor, no residue, no problem…. Instructions on preparing your home for tenting are included in the service. 

Holly on Jonathan; 4/10/16

Kilroy Pest Control

(408) 378-0441

I have used Kilroy Pest Control for over 10 years.....great for weeds and yes the lovely termites. Reasonably priced and they do a fine job.

Donna D.; 1/21/16

Gary, Miracle Pest Control

408-266-7022

This is who we use & refer to our clients.

Brigette on Glenkirk Ct; 6/17/16

Jay Samples, Delta Pest Control  

www.k9bugfinder.net, ph: 408-389-4225

Jay came out and gave us remedies for controlling Willow Glen rats. (do not know about the squirrels-we have dogs who chase them) We had to remove "food source" trees. We followed his suggestions and it worked. Highly recommend.

Gail on California; 4/10/18

Gophers
Dave the Gopher man.

408 838 0498, davethegopherwhisperer@gmail.com

Best to contact via text or email.

Nina on El Rio; 8/31/16

 

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Tile Repair & Installation

Grout Repair
Ricky Nguyen, The Grout Experts

4637 Fort Royal Pl., (408) 438 7563, nguyenricky6@yahoo.com

Ricky…gave us a reasonable quote to regrout … three rooms. One of his employees, Vu, showed up early and worked all day and completed the job at the end of the day. He did a great job considering my home with built in 1954.

Carol on Mazzaglia; 8/18/17; 9/18/17; 4/21/18

 

I second the recommendation for Ricky Nguyen.  I has re-done grout for me several times over the last 5 years at different locations/projects and has done consistently superior work.  He's also punctual and professional. 

Suzanne on Cristina; 4/21/18

Jose Vaquerano, Tile Tech Co.

Office: 408-257-9050, Cell: 408398-7533, tiletech86@yahoo.com

Jose cleans, then removes all the grout in the floor, regrouts and sealed the floor. It all looks brand new, I could not believe it. I cannot recommend this company enough. If any of you have one of those old time WG bathrooms and love the tile but feel it needs something, this is your guy. His card says he also does installation and work on granite, marble, repairs and works on kitchen sink and shower pan replacements.

Nancy on Kotenberg; 9/27/17

Tom Bruno, Bruno’s Tiling

(408) 978-2342

He is wonderful.  I give him credit for talking us out of small mosaic glass in a shower that is used frequently - he said it’s his #1 reason people contact him to repair existing installations.  

Debbie on Garden Glen; 3/30/18

 

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Upholstery

Angel’s Upholstery

1782 Ledgewood Drive, 408-966-5954; angels.upholstery@gmail.com

I used Angels Upholstery and found them to very efficient, reasonable and they do high quality work. 

Joyce on Comstock Lane; 2/26/16

Aby's

1610 Monterey Rd., 408-289-8887

I got two beloved sofas reupholstered last year at Aby’s Custom Upholstery… They did a wonderful job. …I was extremely pleased with the quality.  It’s worth getting a quote from them….

Suzanne on Brace; 4/4/16

Tony

408.630.6300

He upholstered the bench in our kitchen nook and we love it! …I told him the idea I had and he arrived with several sample books of fabric and gave me some great suggestions like tufting the fabric on the back of the bench, selecting a wipe clean vinyl for our growing family, etc. We were in a time crunch and he delivered our product on a Sunday and was very reasonably priced!! 

Bridget on De Anza Way; 10/24/16

Elegant Thread

265 Sobrante WY Suite S, , ElegantThread.com, 408 773-8624

We rely on Elegant Thread for all our rug and upholstery cleaning. They even got red wine out of our carpet. Very tidy while working and stand by their results. 

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 2/23/18

Chair Caning
Pete the Caner

500 E McGlincy Ln, Campbell, (408) 377-7307

This guy does terrific work.

Maria S.; 8/6/16

Cleaning
Elegant Thread Carpet Care

408-773-8624, Elegant-CarpetCare.com

We have had great service from Elegant thread Carpet Care. They are reasonably priced, punctual and neat.  We have used them for upholstery and carpeting cleaning.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 9/11/18

Cushions
Melody

408/826-1531

That is what she does for a living.  Tell her I gave you her number.

Margaret H.; 7/17/18

 

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Water Heater Repair

[see also: Plumbers]

Moomau Plumbing

(408) 396-3837

Our [water heater] died earlier this year.  I called numerous water heater-specific contractors based on e-list and Yelp reviews and got some prices.  Then I called Moomau - duh.  They came through as usual, and we're very happy with the price and quality of work.  

Brian D.; 9/12/16

 

Moomau are the best! I had a problem with a tank just on the edge of the warranty and they were able fix it AND replace the anode tube under the warranty, I never call anyone else for plumbing related issues!

Bruce off Lincoln; 9/12/16

 

I found them highly recommended here on the elist 4 years ago and have never worried about plumbing issues since.  They offer excellent customer service, quality work and fair prices.  They also have great knowledge about plumbing of old homes and the owner lives here in Willow Glen.

Holly on Jonathan; 9/22/16

Chris Potter

408-849-1258

I had plumber/handyman Chris Potter come out and he was able to fix my water heater and as an added bonus he even tightened up the screws on my front porch. He was here in a flash. He worked very quickly and was VERY reasonable. I HIGHLY recommend him.

Linda on Little Orchard; 10/1/16

Greg Lane

408.448.7199, 408.887.5157 (cell)

I use Greg Lane for plumbing work.  He recently replaced my water heater, and installed a circulator with timer as well.  I don't have the brand info, but I'm happy to check when I get home. 

Lisa on Crescent Drive; 3/19/18

 

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Water Softeners, Water Conditioners, and Filters

Barry, Eco Water systems, Success Water

408-482-6811

 [Eco Water systems’] filtration and softening system is excellent, has better regulation of the amounts of potassium and sodium, reduces the amount of soaps, shampoos and cleansers needed, and typically outlast the cheaper models. Their RO is terrific for drinking water. The company is green. They offset their carbon footprint. I love my water, so much [that] my husband now works for the company. 

Terri on Franquette; 1/20/17

DeAnza Water Conditioning

De Anza Water Conditioning

We feel the same way [really happy] about our Kinetico system, and DeAnza Water Conditioning has been great to deal with.  

Brian D.; 10/11/16

AKWAMAG

https://akwamag.com/

We have switched from a whole house salt system to purify our water to AKWAMAG which uses a magnetic system, instead of salt, and uses less water to filtrate your system. We switched in November. It did cost about $2300 to put the system in, but it requires little to no maintenance, just replacing a filter annually, takes up a little less space than the salt system. The water tastes good, and the PH levels stay consistent. We have been very pleased with it. With the previous salt water system, we found we were paying a lot more for water, as the system was cycling water through it all the time. The guys who did the AKWAMAG system were really nice, on time, on budget, and were great to work with.

Robin on Nevada; 2/6/18

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems
Serv-All Water Conditioning

1716 Stone Avenue, Unit E, 408-266-0707

[Serv-All] installed it in 1989…and have serviced it ever since. It works like a charm. Their servicemen are very helpful. They are prompt, neat and take care of any problems on the first visit. Outside of changing the filters now and then we haven’t had any big problems with the system.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 12/28/17

 

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Windows

(also see Curtains & Blinds; also see Glass)

Anderson Windows

696 Auzerais. 295-3200

... They did a great job with the installation and with helping us choose the right windows to meet our design requirements (to find windows that looked original to the house).

They were wonderful.  (NOT Andersen windows, though they do provide that brand if you want it).

Tina on Telfer; 7/18/16

 

I second this rec. We did our replacements in three phases, using a different co. the first time and AndersOn for the nest two. They were MUCH better and we felt delighted to have found them.

Bruce off Lincoln; 7/18/16

 

We used John at Anderson Window and Door Installation. John and his team did a great job, we were very pleased and my husband is very particular!  We installed Anderson windows and French doors but I understand they also handle Marvin, Jed-Wen, etc...

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 7/19/16

 

I went with a Simpson wooden door [from Anderson] with a glass insert for the front door, and a 3-panel Marvin Windows sliding glass door to the back yard. I am thrilled with these products, and the installation crew was awesome. Their stucco guy did a beautiful job blending the patch work with my 79-year-old stucco.

Lisa on Crescent Drive; 8/3/18

Sheets Window and Door Co.

408-292-1132 

I recommend Sheets Enterprises… especially for vintage homes and other historic buildings. Dave…came quickly for an estimate, gave the church a good price, and had the windows built and installed in record time. …everyone has marveled at how nice they look, and how well they open and close, "like a piece of furniture".

Lorraine on Newport; 4/13/16

Brothers Windows

198 Barnard Ave., (408) 295-0852, http://www.brothershomeimp.com/

I highly recommend Brothers. Customer service was great and installation went smoothly.  

Elaine on Mill Pond; 7/19/16

John Salamida Jr., The Screen Shop

408.295.7384

I work with The Screen Shop & have been very happy with their service & pricing. Ask for 70+ family owned family. I have worked with them for 20+ years.

Brigette on Glenkirk Court; 8/24/18

Window Glazing
Wynn Barnes

(408) 658-4078

Although he's a painting contractor, he said that he's glazed a lot of windows. Wynn came on a Saturday, glazed my Window in about an hour. He did a great job, and I would call him again. I'll also give him a call the next time I need painting done.

Tony on Markham; 11/4/17

Quality First Home Improvement  *self-recommend*

485 Salmar Ave., Campbell, www.qualityfirsthome.com, 408-500-5110 (Ed

Quality First Home Improvement offers custom manufactured replacement windows that work well in all homes… There are several options including wood species and every option is very efficient. My husband Ed…is available to show you their various options and coats.

Gina on Keesling Ave; gmillett@sbcglobal.net, 9/28/18

 

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Window Washers / Blind Cleaner / Window Cleaners

Elena Thomas

408-603-7703, elena.thomas1122@gmail.com

(on the rec list for housecleaning) does a fantasic job on windows and blinds

she removes all screens and thoroughly washes the screens and all of the windows. She is often easier to reach by text or email.

Alana/Pine; 8/10/16, 4/10/17

 

Try calling Elena Thomas. She is wonderful!  I originally found her on this list and she now also cleans for me and, also, two of my friends.

Susan on Parkside; 8/8/16

Jose M Mendoza

408 398-1245

I second [Mendoza’s] recommendation. Jose did a great job on the windows of our 2-story last week. He said he also does carpet cleaning and a number of other around-the-house tasks.

Suzanne on Olive Hill Dr.; 4/19/16

Sparking Clean Service; Peter Reeves

408.497.3758

I recently used Sparkling Clean Window Washing. I got their info from the recs list so I know others like them too. They did a great job and were quick and safe. They also power washed my patio. Nice men, good work. I'll definitely use them again. Their business card says they also hang Christmas lights.

Tina on Monte Vista; 6/22/16, 9/5/16

 

I've had [Sparkling Clean] hang/remove holiday lights, and clean windows and solar panels. They have stuck to their bids, come back for any tweaks at no charge. [They] are always friendly, trustworthy, and hard workers.  Not the least expensive, no discounts, but excellent results, always. I do recommend this company.

Karen on Blewett; 6/21/18

 

[Sparkling Clean] [Not recommended]

Anu B.; 6/20/18

Spectacular Window & Gutter Cleaning

408-323-1916, www.spectacularwindows.com

Javier has cleaned my windows twice now.  He does residential homes and office buildings.  He returns calls promptly, shows up on time, gives a quote before scheduling service and does an overall excellent job for a very reasonable price.  He is also excellent at cleaning screens and windowsills.

Holly on Jonathan; 5/2/16

Javier, Spectacular Window Cleaning

(408) 323-1916

I just used Javier from Spectacular window cleaning, He did a great job! 

Kirsten on Glenwood; 5/15/17

The Window Washer

3127 Oakbridge Dr., San Jose, 408-993-1097

We recently used the Window Washer with great results.

Claudia on Westwood; 5/16/18

J.R.’s Window Cleaning Service

(408) 288-5532, www.jrs-windowcleaning.com

We have used J. R. Window Cleaning Service for the last few years. He does a thorough job and takes care around plants outside and curtains and furniture inside. We have a two story and that isn’t a problem. He also does solar panels and gutter cleaning.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 5/16/18

 

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Landscape / Yard Care

Concrete & Cement; Sidewalks

Jim Casalegno, Pacific Concrete 

jimcasalegno@gmail.com

I worked with Jim (lives in Willow Glen) who did a great job on a new driveway. [Check] with him to see if he can quote you for a sidewalk. He was always on time, cleaned everything and his team had brute strength required in moving some rolls of artificial turf out of the way to do the job.

Candy on Lansford; 9/7/17

 

Likewise, Jim's Pacific Concrete did a great job for us some years ago on a kinda fancy driveway design in Sunnyvale. Not the least expensive bid but excellent work and a very nice guy to deal with.

Barbara on Blewett; 9/7/17

Ernesto Rodriguez

510.493.3688

I recently worked with Ernesto Rodriguez. He was terrific to work with. Great communication & execution. Very fair pricing as well.

Brigette on Glenkirk Court; 11/12/18

 

Notes on sidewalk repair

Last year, I finally faced up to the fact that my sidewalk was hazardous -- so I called the City and asked for an inspection. The inspector was friendly and took the time to explain things.

 

You can easily use a ruler to check your sidewalk against the City's safety criteria.  Mine did not meet the entirely-reasonable rules:

http://www.sanjoseca.gov/index.aspx?nid=3975

(I was inspired to check because I noticed an elderly neighbor with a walker having trouble on her daily walk -- despite being with a caregiver. She wasn't complaining, but the sidewalk was not very neighborly.)

 

The key info is here on the City website:

- Main page: http://www.sanjoseca.gov/index.aspx?NID=275

- Q-and-A:  http://www.sanjoseca.gov/faq.aspx?qid=66

 

The City's objective is public safety, not appearance -- so they require only a minimum repair: replacing a few squares of concrete -- plus grinding the edges on some other existing squares.

 

How it works:

 

There are four alternatives:

1. You let the City hire a contractor and manage the project. These is an additional charge for the project management.

2. You hire a contractor from the City's recommended list.

3. You hire any licensed concrete contractor.

4. Do it yourself (i.e. hire someone who is not a contractor.)   You need to follow these specifications for a safe and long-lasting job that will pass inspection:  http://www.sanjoseca.gov/index.aspx?nid=3463

 

With any alternative, either you or the contractor pays for a permit to cover two inspection visits -- after the roots are cut and the forms are in -- and then a final inspection. They leave the final inspection report in your mailbox.

http://www.sanjoseca.gov/index.aspx?nid=1889

 

I picked choice #2 -- hired a contractor from the City's recommended list:

 

- Wanted a contractor fully experienced with the City rules and process.

 

- Wanted to work directly with the contractor to understand the alternatives. That paid off with CB Concrete, as described earlier.

 

- Decided to replace more than the minimum number of squares instead of grinding. Grinding would have removed the current safety hazards -- but would not have solved the overall roller-coaster problem caused by the previous street tree. (In my opinion, the exposed aggregate after grinding is ugly and not really as safe -- and won't solve any stray root problems that might linger under the squares that were ground.)

 

- Wanted to replace the 60-year-old front walk. Given all the hassle of construction and the "fixed cost" to do only the sidewalk -- Bobcat, demolition-and-haul-away crew, forms crew, transit-mix truck, pour, and several stages of finishing -- the incremental cost for the front walk wasn't that high.

 

Tips:

 

- Don't panic on the 60-day requirement -- as long as you engage a contractor promptly and get on their schedule, you can ignore the subsequent computer-generated threatening letters from the City.

 

- Because contractors combine multiple jobs in each area, there will be a delay before your job starts. They pour multiple jobs in one area over a couple of hours -- in order to use a full transit mix truckload of concrete -- and their concrete finishers come back several times over a couple of days -- rotating several times between nearby jobs as the concrete sets.

 

- I notified my neighbors -- and blocked the street in front of my house the day before the demolition -- to ensure that no one parked there. <smile>

 

Watching the work was educational.  Properly-done concrete work is a lot more complex and precise than it looks!

Curt G; 10/12/14

 

return to top; also check Older Recommendations; go to home page

Deck/Arbor

Rob Hutchinson, The Deck Pros

408.854.2829; http://thedeckprosca.com

[Rob’s] work is top notch, he gives free consultations, he's honest, reasonably priced and can offer you design ideas if you like. He is Trex, Fiberon and Timbertech certified, and has had work featured in Sunset magazine.  He … has a machine that can bend boards if you should want a rounded deck. 

Cindy K; 2/10/16; 3/27/18

 

[Robert] did our deck 3 yrs ago with Trex wood in two colors. Very professional and very thorough. He is truly a "Pro" at building decks. May be a lil high in pricing but worth the quality! We are very picky people when it comes to getting quality work so when we selected him... That's what he delivered. If you have any questions or want to see my deck, pls email me separately. 

Anu on Dry Creek; 9/2/17

 

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Garden Maintenance / Gardener / Irrigation & Sprinklers / Lawns / Horticulturist

(see also Landscaping)

Antonio Vega

408-206-5710

Upon the recommendation [someone] on this list, I just had Antonio Vega come and do my yard. What a great job!! Came on time, reasonably priced, cleaned up and left!! I will definitely call him back when the time comes!!

Linda on Little Orchard St.; 5/17/16

Aureliano Rueda

(408) 781-7624

I have a wonderful gardener who gardens by the season and knows his stuff. He has room for a few new clients and if you are interested you may surely use my name. Gardens by the seasons. He does not mow and blow

Jonica on Lansford; 5/26/16, 11/16/18

 

I second the recommendation for Aureliano.  He is our weekly gardener and does a fantastic job.  Very reliable and reasonably priced. He also hires out on Saturday for big jobs.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 10/11/17, 10/29/18, 1/9/19

Gabriel Castellanos, Waterworks Irrigation Solutions

gcwaterworks@gmail.com, 650-269-2439

He's super responsive (via email, phone or text messages - your preference); quite flexible about when he can meet with you and extremely knowledgeable about the latest technology for saving water and money.  He's also a very nice guy and very careful around plants.

Leslie on Ramona; 8/8/16

ezhome

http://ezhome.com/?rc=8CKKU4

We are so happy with ezhome. The guys show up every 2 weeks without fail and check in with us and will do everything we ask. They charge us $76/month. If you try them out and say we referred you, I believe you'll get a $50 credit.

Karen & Jeff on Blewett Avenue; 9/8/16

Jesse Fernandez

408-398-6639

My Gardener knows how to do it all. Sprinkler Systems, Mowing the Lawn, Raking the Leaves, General Pruning, Tree Trimming, Pruning Roses. He always does a complete and thorough job.  I have referred him to two neighbors in Willow Glen that are happy with his service.

Holly on Jonathan; 9/22/16

Garcia Garden Services 

408 217-1367

For years we have used Garcia Garden Services. They pulled out 40' of creeping fig a few years ago, and I could not have been happier. Also, owner is native English speaker in case your Spanish is rusty.

Bruce off Lincoln; 3/5/17

Nicolas and Ramon Santos

408-923-0954, 408-207-5220

They have been our gardeners for over 30 years. We still have them but they are open to new customers.

Gail C.; 4/2/17

Agustin Munoz

408-401-1174

We've used Munoz Landscaping for about 7 years now (back when it was just Augustin) and have been very happy with them. They've never missed a day, do a great job, and are very nice. When I couldn't work due to an injury and therefore couldn't pay them for a few months, they still came anyway.

Taffy D.; 5/12/18

Jose Diaz, Landscaper/Tree trimmer/sprinkler system/timers

408-824-3802 

He has done work for our clients, they have been happy with his work.

Barbara S.; 6/20/18

aerating
Paul LaBossierw, $24 Lawn Aerating

408-838-9031

Called [Paul] Sunday, scheduled for Monday. Fantastic job at a reasonable price.

Neal J.; 5/17/16

David, Jan’s Gardening

(408) 248-0222

Very impressed! David came at 12:00p.m. to dethatch and aerate our [lawns – about 2000 sq. ft] and left at 5:00p.m. Very thorough. Did a wonderful job; better than anyone we have ever used. Plan on having him back in the Spring. It was $250.00.

Carol on Mazzaglia; 9/19/17

Aureliano Rueda

(408) 781-7624

Hi all, come January my good gardener will be offering lawn aeration at a very reasonable cost.

Jonica on Lansford; 12/7/17

Mrs. Greenlawn

140 Kennedy Ave., Campbell, (408) 374-3344

We use Mrs. Greenlawn for aeration, fertilizing, detaching, reseeding when needed.  They have everything on a schedule and keep track of what you need.  Neat and clean and reliable.  Not sure if they will do a one-time visit, but they are definitely worth a call.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 10/25/18

Al Ramirez

aeramimage@aol.com, 408-209-1690

If anyone needs their fruit trees pruned, drop me a line or [text] me! Hope I can help!

Thank you,

*self-recommend* Al Ramirez; aeramimage@aol.com; 12/12/17

Artificial Turf
Jarrett, EarthPro Landscaping

799 Lincoln Avenue, (408) 294-1920, sales@earthprocare.com

I was just talking to a friend about this…and he was giving us all sorts of information and tips for installing artificial turf when pets are involved. He owns a landscaping business in Willow Glen called EarthPro… I'd give [him] a call and he can answer any questions you have as well as quote the install based on what you discuss.

AnnMarie on Crescent; 7/26/16

Irrigation:
Lee Del Canto

408-266-3333

Lee Del Canto is who we work with.

Brigette O.; 6/16/16

 

[Lee is] local and on the recommendation page.  I had a minor problem that he responded to and fixed within an hour after I called.

Elaine on Mill Pond; 5/31/17

 

[Lee]’s terrific!  He’s been taking care of our sprinklers for years.  Does a great job and is reasonably priced.

Peggy on Glen Eyrie Avenue; 3/28/18

Yardwork / Cleanup
Marco Sabalsa

308-393-5144

Yard/Garage Clean up Experts. Demolition/Moving

Gail C.; 4/2/17

 

Marco is awesome! I use him for both hauling & landscaping needs.

Brigette on Glenkirk Ct.; 4/10/17

Abel Estrada

408-387-0064

He does all types of yard work from clean-up to sprinklers, etc. He does good work and will do exactly what you ask him to do. Also charges reasonable rates. I have used him many, many times and highly recommend him.

Joyce on Comstock Lane; 4/10/17

Jay [Jeremy] Lathrop

(408) 402-2939

Carol, we have a terrific guy, Jay Lathrop who is cleaning up our yard and preparing it for Spring. He has worked for and with many nurseries in the area and has an extensive knowledge of local plants and shrubs. I highly recommend him.

Patricia on Cherry Glen; 4/27/17 

 

[Jeremy Lathrop]'s terrific!!  I also highly recommend him for any and all garden chores. Very knowledgeable as well.

Peggy on Glen Eyrie Ave; 4/12/18; 6/25/18

 

I have been using Jay Lathrop for 2 years now. He does an excellent job and is very knowledgeable about soil preparation and plants. He doesn’t fix sprinklers though.

Carol on Mazzaglia; 6/24/18, 8/13/18

 

return to top; also check Older Recommendations; go to home page

Fences & Fencing

Jaime Rivera

(408) 590-8142

I recently had my metal driveway gate replaced with a very nice wooden gate. He replaced my back fence last year. He is excellent!!!  I would highly recommend him…My guy came over, gave me a bid and the gate &  Fence was completed in a week. I am so very happy with my beautiful gate and the very reasonable price.

Lynn on Clintonia; 3/28/16

 

Got [Jaime’s] name from rec list. Last weekend he replaced a 27 ft section of fence. He was responsive, reliable, and the fence looks great. He did give us a quote to repair also. Good guy.

Gail W.; 5/12/17

 

Jaime just added lattice to an existing fence. He did a great job. Quick and it looks great. I highly recommend him. 

Jan F.; 7/22/17

 

We just got through using Jaime Rivera. He used to work with Sierra Lumber. Very good and price is better than most around.

Carol on Mazzaglia; 4/23/18

Duran Fencing

(408) 287-8859

They just reinforced several posts for us and did a great job. 

Susan on Parkside; 3/29/17

Jesus Cuevas

408-313-5819

We had our backyard fence rebuilt in December by Jesus Cuevas.  He and his crew did a beautiful job with our horizontal design.

Lisa on Crescent Drive; 3/26/18

Noble Fencing

1852 Almaden Rd, (408) 448-4904

Dylan was very responsive, prompt with his proposal, very easy to get a hold of, flexible in scheduling and the fence is beautiful.  Also, his pricing was very reasonable.  Workers were on time, left my yard clean and did top notch work.  I highly recommend them for fencing work and would use them again.

Becky on Lennon Way; 7/16/18

 

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Landscaping & Garden Design

(see also Garden Maintenance/Lawns/Irrigation)

Teri Ravel Kane

893-6080, tlandarch@me.com; terikane.com

[to convert the front yard to CA natives and drought tolerant], Call Teri Kane.

Jan C.; 1/23/16

Jarrett, EarthPro Landscape

Lincoln Ave., (408) 294-1920, , 408 529 4341 cell

We used [Jarrett] to built our outdoor BBQ island and they did a good job. They are full fledge landscaping company.

Any B.; 6/4/16

Nancy Garrison, All Things Edible

moved out-of-state

Stephanie Morris, Landscape Architect #4580

www.NativePlantDesign.com, (408) 206.5055

We were very happy with Stephanie Morris.  Very easy to work with, responsive, and reasonably priced.

Linda on Gardendale Dr.; 3/7/17

Nursery and Supplies
Central Wholesale Nursery

1670 McKinley Ave, (408) 280-1131

I recommend Central Wholesale Nursery. They are just across Meridian from Willow Glen. Very helpful.

Tina on Monte Vista; 4/25/16

Capitol Nursery

2938 Everdale Dr., (408) 239-0589, http://www.capitolwholesalenursery.com/

I highly recommend Capitol Nursery.  Very knowledgeable staff and a terrific selection.

Regan on Jansen; 3/15/17

Hardscaping
Payless Rockery

2927 King Rd., (408) 600-1946

We love Payless Rockery

Claudia on Westwood; 3/15/17

Garden Supply Hardscapes

2662 Monterey Rd., (408) 971-7600

We love Garden Supply Hardscapes

Claudia on Westwood; 3/15/17

Site One Landscaping Supplies

1145 N. 13th St., (408) 295-3376

We were referred to Site One Landscaping Supplies for lawn supplies and while there, I noticed they had wonderful pavers. They probably have recommendations as well as we were given a recommendation for sprinkler repair.

Carol on Mazzaglia; 8/26/18

Garden Structures and Pergola Repair
Mondo Rodriguez

(408) 990-6142

… Mondo Rodriguez is a pro at repairing pergolas, we just recently had him out and he showed us pictures of his work, absolutely gorgeous.

Lisa on Bird; 1/13/18

 

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Swimming Pool Service

Premier Pool and Spa

http://premierpoolandspa.com/

We have used them for more than 12 years. At first we only had a spa, but now we have a pool and spa. They do a great job, and can also do repairs, drain and fill, etc… Tell Frank Robin Marino referred you if you contact them.

Robin on Nevada; 11/15/16

Swimming Pool Pumps
Swimco Electric

753 Camden Ave, Campbell, (408) 378-2607, swimcoelectric.com

They can rebuild your motor for a fraction of the cost, new bearings and seals and you get to see a minuature doberman.I use them for my spa and my mom's pool, they have been around since I was a teenager, having to be home to get a call and get up off the couch to do anything with the TV.

Chris J.; 2/18/16

Spas
Jeff, Tradewind Spas

15736 Los Gatos Blvd, Los Gatos, (408) 763-4228

Tradewind Spas is owned by my brother-in-law, Jeff Peterson. He is a very conscientious businessman who will take good care of your spa needs. He has owned Tradewinds for over 30 years and knows everything there is to know about spas (imho). Tell him Michael and Mary sent you.

Mary M.; 5/22/16

Swimming Pool Tile Repair
Mario Bellot

mariobellot@sbcglobal.net

I wanted to tell those of you who have pools that I have used Mario Bellot to replace some of my loose/broken tiles around the pool and spa. … very professional in their work and I am extremely pleased with the results. 

Sue on Dean; 7/1/17

Dave, AquaPros

dave@cleanpooltiles.com

I originally thought I would need to replace the entire pool tiles because … there was discoloration from years of use as well as from solutions to keep algae away; however, Mario said … the discoloration could be erased by Dave of AquaPros. … very professional in their work and I am extremely pleased with the results. 

Sue on Dean; 7/1/17

 

return to top; also check Older Recommendations; go to home page

Trees; Tree Trimming; Arborist

Aly's Tree

(408) 280-6545

Aly and his crew were able to repair the damage done when PG&E had mangled our camphor trees.  They also did an excellent job of shaping and rejuvenating our sprawling ancient walnut tree.  Quick, with excellent clean-up.  A happy repeat customer!

Larry (on Willow); Mar 5, 2017

 

Aly’s Tree Trimming Services is who we have worked with for years both personally & professionally with our clients as well.

Brigette on Glenkirk Court; 11/16/18

Bartlett Tree

15015 Los Gatos Boulevard, Los Gatos, (408) 358-7888; bartlett.com

Their ISA Certified Arborist, Sean Davis, explains things very well and showed why some work I was considering was unnecessary. They use a bucket truck where possible instead of climbing -- which allows them to do a much more careful, thorough job. Saves money because the tree doesn't have to be re-done every year.  The Bartlett crew also did a removal in an extremely tricky location, got the oak tree off the power/phone/cable wires on the pole, and patiently untangled my fruitless mulberry.

Curt; 3/31/16, 4/9/16

 

I have used Barlett Tree Experts for 40 years. My current home has 30 birch trees. My previous home had many old fruit trees that had many problems due to previous poor pruning and age related issues. I have found their pruning to be thoughtful, focused on the health of the tree, as well as, the aesthetic. They also perform fertilizing and spray programs if needed. They will not spray if it is not needed.  They are the best!

Casey on Minnesota; 9/14/16

Brian and Heather, Woodpecker

trees@woodpeckerarborist.com,(408) 298-2948

We have used Brian McGovern from Woodpecker Arborist for all of our mature trees.  He is very knowledgeable and has never steered us wrong.  Never had black fungus, so not sure what he would charge.  You could call and ask him.  He is worth every dime.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 10/5/17, 8/8/18, 11/16/18

 

I also highly recommend Brian of Woodpecker Arborist.

Norvelle on Plaza; 8/8/18

 

Brian is a “tree whisperer.” (No kidding)! However, he is expensive. I’ve also used Bartlett Tree Experts (408-358-7888) and they also have done a great job.

Jean on Creek; 8/9/18

Sean McGrail

(408) 761-9415

The only person who I will allow to prune my Japanese Maples is Sean McGrail.  He is an outstanding arborist.

Susan on Parkside; 4/19/17

 

2nd that rec for Sean. Only person I will let touch my precious bonsai jap maples!

Anu @ Dry Creek Rd.; 4/19/17

Francisco Tree Service

408.569.1259, franciscotreeserv@gmail.com

I recently had Francisco Tree Service prune our huge coast live oak and I would hire him again…. He was the lowest, most sane price of anyone I received bids from, a small contractor that also worked the job with his crew; … everything was done to perfection and everything we talked about was handled.

Chris J.; 1/10/18

Felix Tree Service

408-723-1810, http://felix-treeservice.com/

I got a recommendation for Felix Tree Service … from a friend who has used and known him for years and went w/ it.  Great service and pruning of 3 fruit trees for about 60% of other quote for 2 of the 3 trees.  I was instructed on how I could do the 3rd myself to save money.

Joyce on Padres; 11/16/18

Stump Removal
Israel, Acostas Stump Grinding

408-509-3634

I have watched several stumps being removed from my yard and it doesn't appear to be a task for a novice. … excellent work.  Nice people, left my yard neat & clean.  Israel referred me to Manuel when his big equipment wouldn't fit the narrow path to my backyard.

Kathie on Pine; 2/26/16

Manuel Valencia - Stump Removal 

408-833-3549

I have watched several stumps being removed from my yard and it doesn't appear to be a task for a novice. … excellent work.  Nice people, left my yard neat & clean.  Israel referred me to Manuel when his big equipment wouldn't fit the narrow path to my backyard.

Kathie on Pine; 2/26/16

Aurielo Rueda

408-781-7624, Aurelio.rueda.408@gmail.com

My good gardener, Aurielo Rueda has some openings for stump grinding, he is an expert, has great prices and is more available than most. He is very knowledgeable about gardening. I highly recommend him.

Jonica D.; 9/20/18

Stump King

800-958-0233, www.stumpking.com

Very careful to protect fence and plantings. Brings two machines -- large and small -- to better suit the situation.

Curt G.; 11/9/18

Tree Removal
Bartlett Tree Experts

15015 Los Gatos Blvd, Los Gatos, (408) 358-7888,  http://www.bartlett.com

A couple of years ago, I had Bartlett do an extremely tricky removal. When they can, they use a bucket truck instead of climbing -- which allows them to do a much more careful job.

Curt G.; 3/1/16

 

[Barlett’s] quote for our job was the lowest. The job was quite satisfactory. I was also not looking for an expert pruner for a tree on the side walk so it worked out perfect for me. 

Anu on Dry Creek; 2/12/16

 

We used Bartlett Tree Services and Stump King with great results.

Loureen M.; 7/15/16

Oscar's Expert Tree Service

408-866-1600

They did a great job. Removed the trees, grinded the stumps, and also finished cutting another tree that my husband had cut but the stump was still there. His crew cut down the stump and grinded it at no extra charge. He is licensed and insured and was $1,000.00 cheaper than the other quotes I received. Kim on Byerley; 8/6/16

Leonard Cortez Tree Service

408.784.4091

He is the lowest I have ever found, and he does a great job too. He is licensed and insured.  He does all kinds of tree servicing; trimming, topping, thinning, stump removal and grinding. He services residential and commercial properties. He also does sprinklers, landscape, fences and all types of concrete work.

Cindy K.; 2/12/16

Oscar’s Expert Tree Service

(408) 373-4696

I just completed a major tree removal. Solicited bids from almost all the companies mentioned on the WG [recs] page and Oscar’s…was very cost-competitive (when comparing only licensed and insured company bids). They completed the tricky job with skill, speed and a total clean up. I highly recommend.

Spencer on Glenwood; 3/2/16

California Tree Solutions

(408) 910-5143

Very knowledgeable, hard-working crew, very careful of other landscaping, responsive, and best prices around. AND he returned calls and showed up when he said he would which I can't say for most of the other places we called.

Claudia on Westwood; 3/31/16, 5/2/16

Olguin’s Tree Service

408-786-5055

We swear by Olguin's Tree Service. Emilio Olguin is a great guy, very honest, fair, prompt and reasonably priced. He does our camphor trees every year.

Lisa on Gerald; 5/5/16

 

Notes on tree services

Whoever you hire...

There are two quick online checks that you should make on any tree service.  The "license numbers" and text on business cards or painted on trucks may not be accurate or current.

 

1. Check that someone who claims to be an "arborist" really is one.

Unless it is a complete removal, there is a lot more to proper tree work than just sawing away.

http://www.isa-arbor.com/faca/findArborist.aspx

2. Check that you are hiring a licensed contractor -- and that they have workman's comp insurance.

One trick that some contractors (of all kinds) pull is to have a license but claim that they have no employees -- to avoid the cost of insurance.

Then they show up with a crew.

You don't want an accident to go against your homeowners insurance.

https://www2.cslb.ca.gov/OnlineServices/CheckLicenseII/CheckLicense.aspx

 

(One supposed contractor had a business card with the license number of a defunct plumbing company in LA. It wasn't just a typo -- I searched for him very carefully by "Personnel Name" on the State website. He had no license.)

Curt; May 9, 2013

 

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Medical / Dental / Health Care

Acupuncture

Olivia Baker, Evoke Acupuncture

408- 320-7096

She is wonderful and the office is friendly and welcoming.

Kirsten on Glenwood; 5/23/17

Dr Denise Hsu

665 S. KnickerbockerDr. #11, Sunnyvale, (408) 739-9468

Very experienced, works part time at Kaiser Hospital in SF.

Nina on El Rio; 5/23/17

Lokahi Acupuncture

1688 Willow St. #B, (408) 279-9001, http://lokahiacupuncture.com/

I can highly recommend Lokahi Acupuncture on Willow Street, near Meridian. I've had treatments with a variety of the acupuncturists and they were all great.  They all work a little differently and have their own specialties that can be tailored to what you need. Good luck!

Claudia on Westwood; 1/10/19

Dr. Julie Tran-Olive, Silicon Valley Natural Health 

5595 Winfield Blvd Suite 106, (408) 792-7229, https://www.svnaturalhealth.com/

My colleague Dr Julie Tran-Olive … is tremendous! She's helped my entire family with a wide variety of acupuncture and wellness needs. An added bonus, she's also a licensed Naturopath. I highly recommend Dr Julie! And the others at SVNH!

Terri on Franquette; 1/13/19

 

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Allergist

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Chiropractor

Max Peterson, Elite Chiropractic

1373 S. Bascom Ave. near Stokes, 408-314-9453

[recommended by]

Larry R.; 7/1/18

Dr. Hoffman JR, Chiropractic solutions

1885 Winchester Blvd., Campbell, 408-370-2190

We have both been going to Dr. Hoffman in Campbell.  He has always been able to relieve the pain of back or neck problems.  He is also a sports chiropractor.  Reasonable priced and you can get an appointment quickly for severe problems. He has a full service office, so if you need x-rays you don’t have to go anywhere else.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 7/6/18, 8/4/18

Robyn Kubo-Manley

1213 Meridian near Willow and Westwood, (408) 448-4004

She is wonderful and has performed miracles for my family and friends I have referred to her.

Bonnie on Mercer Avenue; 8/4/18

Dr. Cree Guardino, C2 Living Well

1076 Meridian Ave., 408-265-2663, https://www.drcree.com/

I've been going to Dr. Guardino on and off for years.  She's terrific!

Regan on Jansen; 8/4/18, 1/18/19

Dr. Jeff Jenkins, Jenkins Chiropractic

3591 Stevens Creek Blvd., Suite B, 408-773-6913,https://www.wellnesschiropractorsanjoseca.com/ 

I love Dr. Jeff Jenkins, Aka Dr. Jay. He's got lots of great positive energy, has helped me immensely and has some fun tools and toys to help ease pain, relax muscles and feel well…. plus the usual chiropractor moves. No need or pressure to sign up for a costly "yearly plan" too.

Terri on Franquette; 1/18/19

Dr. Julie Henney

1101 S Winchester Blvd # P296, 408-261-2225

Highly recommend Dr. Julie Henney. We call her the miracle worker. She's a pressure not bone cracker chiropractor. She's on Winchester at Payne.

Patrick on Cherry Valley; 1/18/19

 

I also highly recommend Dr. Henney. Her method is called directional non-force technique. She has helped me immensely over the years. 

Sara on Michigan Ave.; 1/19/19

 

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Counselors/Therapists

Christine Janse - Family Therapy, MFT38996

www.christinejanse.com , (951) 638-0061, christine@christinejanse.com

I am lucky enough to have a family full of therapists. Their advice has been invaluable as I raise my children… I thought I would send along information for a wonderful family therapist that just opened an office in San Jose. 25+ years of experience.

Heather on Newport; 9/5/17

Therapist for Children
Susan Schmidt, The Center is Silicon Valley Natural Health

http://www.svnaturalhealth.com/, 408.792.7229

A colleague of mine runs a natural wellness center and they have someone like that I believe. Her name is and she is an educational therapist. I just referred another elister to Dr Julie Tran-Olive a naturopath and acupuncturist who leads the team. Awesome folks there. 

Terri on Franquette; 2/14/17

Dr. Adam Dorsay Psy.D.

408-450-1800, 1120 McKendrie Street SJ

Dr Adam Dorsay Psy.D. was wonderful with my son.  We went through a few therapists before we found Dr. Dorsay who was able to make a real connection and a real difference.

Felecia on Curtiss; 4/21/17

Linda Mastrangelo

1925 S Winchester Blvd., Suite 106, Campbell, (408) 340-7712 

Linda Mastrangelo is awesome. She practices in Campbell and Santa Cruz.

Carol on Curtis; 4/21/17

 

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Dentist

(also see Oral Surgeon)

Dr.Bauer

1953 Hamilton Ave, (408) 371-5700

Dr. Linh Bauer is excellent!

Larry R.; 4/26/17

 

My granddaughter and I have both been seeing Dr. Linh Bauer for about 8 years. She has eased us both into being comfortable…at the dentist. In addition to being competent she manages to always be on time and at the same time not seem rushed. Her office staff has that same gentle but efficient quality. 

Gail W.; 11/13/17; 3/12/18

Drs. Mark and Tiffany Kitamura DDS

1198 Meridian Ave # B, (408) 265-5700

Nice office, very knowledgeable and super organized. A well run business.

Brigette in Glenkirk; 11/13/17

 

I really like Tiffany Kitamura DDS and Mark Nishimura DDS located on Meridian.

Neal on Prevost; 4/26/17

 

I highly recommend Tiffany Kitamura and Mark Nishimura for adult and child dentistry   All 3 generations of our family go there and I have had positive feedback from referrals I have made to them.  They are @1198 Meridian just before Willow

Joyce on Padres; 11/13/17

Dr. Chawla, Lotus Dental

1374 E. Hamilton Ave., (669) 222-8315

I recommend Dr Chawla at Lotus Dental on Hamilton between Leigh and Bascom. She is great!

Roy on Hamilton; 4/26/17

Kenny Kim DDS, Marie Nguyen DDS

1720 Hamilton Ave., 408-269-6982

my family has been going to Kenny Kim and Marie Nguyen for years.  They do great work!  I would highly recommend them.

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 4/26/17; 11/13/17; 4/3/18

Dr. Robert Ferguson

408-266-4242

Dr. Robert Ferguson and staff, very happy with them! They are located on Meridian Ave. between Minnesota and Willow.

Kirsten on Glenwood; 11/13/17

Dr. Pisacane, Willow Glen Dentistry

1245 Lincoln Ave., 408-293-9600

I've been going to Dr. Pisacane at Willow Glen Dentistry for several years and am very happy with his approach. I feel like a partner in our own care with him, and like he is always trying to do the exact right thing. Also the office environment is cheerful, clean, and upbeat without being crowded or noisy.

Carol on Curtis; 4/3/18

 

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Dermatologist

Chris Schmidt

15215 National Ave. #204, Los Gatos, 408-356-2147

Chris Schmidt in Los Gatos, off of National Ave, is very good. Learned his skills in the military and has been in the bay area for at least 3 decades. Very knowledgeable and takes the time to connect with his patients and explain things so you can understand.

Dan on Greencreek; 4/30/18

 

[Chris Schmidt] He’s a good one

Carol on Prevost St.

carnoldy@att.net

4/30/18

Jennifer Baron

123 DiSalvo Ave., Ste. A, (408) 418-8780

I highly recommend Jennifer Baron. She’s is extremely knowledgeable and up to date in various procedures. Check her out at jenniferbaronmd.com.

Carol on Mazzaglia; 10/9/18

 

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Doctors (General Practice) / Physicians

(also see Allergists; also see OB-GYN; also see Medical Plans)

Aetna Doctors:
Jack Coombs

408-358-3368

My husband and I both LOVE Dr. Jack Coombs in Los Gatos. He takes his time. Is not into prescribing before trying other methods. He's an old fashioned Internist.  I never had a primary until I went to him.  Great guy!       

Karen on Blewett; 8/18/16

Cardiologists
Dr. Parikh

625 Lincoln Ave., (408) 278-3000, https://medfoundation.verity.org/physician/akik-k-parikh-m-d/

Dr. Parikh on Lincoln is very good.

Roy on Hamilton; 12/13/16

Dr. Norman Lowenbraun

173 N Morrison Ave # C, 408-293-1992

I can't say enough good things about this man. I had a question about my medication that I sent him an email for last month the day before Thanksgiving, hoping for an answer by the following Monday. He called me personally ON Thanksgiving morning with an answer.

Linda on Little Orchard St.; 12/17/16

Ear/Nose/Throat (ENT)
Dr. Mauro Ruffy

2585 Samaritan Dr., Ste 304, San Jose, (408) 357-1250

If you are looking for an adult ENT -- I can HIGHLY recommend Dr. Mauro Ruffy…. He and his staff are top notch; two family members are current patients and I can say this first hand. 

Mary on Iris Court; 1/25/16

Hand Specialist
Eric Kagel

2505 Samaritan Dr #208, (408) 358-3555

Eric Kagel, MD has been very helpful for arthritis and stenosing tenosynovitis. I will probably have surgery early next year and I feel confident that, for me at least, he's the right choice.

Elissa on Laurie; 9/17/18

Holistic Doctor
Dr. Young, Young Naturopathic Center for Wellness  

751 Blossom Hill Rd, Los Gatos, (408) 761-6781

Pam on Wren; 2/14/17

Dr. Juli Mazi, Naturopathic Doctor, Thrive Natural Medicine,

Soquel, (831) 515-8699

She's really good. I looked for an ND… in Santa Clara County and kept getting mixed/negative mentions, so decided to search further afield. I'm glad I did--Juli is awesome and also is very well-connected, so she can refer you to other medical practitioners if your situation requires it… she works alongside of more conventional medical doctors rather than in opposition to them.

Carol on Curtis; 2/14/17

Dr Julie Tran-Olive, Silicon Valley Natural Health

5595 Winfield Blvd, Ste 106, http://www.svnaturalhealth.com/dr-julie-tran-olive-nd-lac/

A licensed Naturopath is a terrific option. I have found Dr Julie to be an excellent member of my wellness team. She has been so helpful to my whole family! She's an acupuncturist as well so you get the best of both! 

Terri on Franquette; 2/14/17

Shoulders
Dr. Nathaniel Cohen

14601 S. Bascom Ave Ste 200, Los Gatos, 408-356-0464

I highly recommend Dr Nathaniel Cohen on Bascom. He did my surgery for rotator cuff repair, impingement, torn bicep. Not fun surgery or quick recovery, but he did good work. I would definitely go back to him if needed in the future.

Laura (Previously near Bird and Willow) ; 11/29/18

Urologists
John Kersten Kraft MD

(408) 647-2800, 2505 Samaritan Dr Suite 600, San Jose

We have been very happy with [Dr. Kraft]. He's treated males and females of all age ranges in my family and was extremely knowledgeable about his field, much more than a family physician. In fact, three different family physicians referred us to Kraft.

Elissa on Laurie; 10/14/16

 

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Home Health Care / Hospice

Pathways

585 N Mary Ave, Sunnyvale, (408) 730-5900, https://www.pathwayshealth.org/

A neighbor and a relative both found Pathways very helpful.

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 6/6/16

Hospice of the Valley

4850 Union Av., (408) 559-5600, https://www.hospicevalley.org

Hospice of the Valley took wonderful care of my father (and of us too.) Highly recommended.

Janis, WGW expat; 6/6/16

Yasmin

(650) 283-1511

Yasmin (rhymes with Jasmine) worked for our parents for over 10 years. Yasmin was a loving, caring, honest, hard-working care-giver. Because of her personality, and willingness to do the best for the client, we would recommend her for anyone. … she said she would be willing to come to San Jose, especially for an overnight job.  Of course, driving down for just an hour or two wouldn't work for her.

Janice on Coolidge; 5/23/18

 

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Massage Therapy

Lisa Wallace

408.464.2336

She is our go to for massage, does outcalls., very knowledgeable.

Chris J.; 6/23/16

Suzi Jebo, LMT

803-493-5242

[She] has 8 years of experience in massage…she has had a lot of education…I have an MS in Geriatric Kinesiology and this gal knew what she was doing. She's worth giving a try if you are looking for a local therapist who will make house calls. You can get a good spot on her schedule because she has lots of flexibility...

Katie on Cottle & Koch; 10/15/17

Violet J Day Spa

408-297-4899, http://violetjspa.com/WordPress/

I've had good experiences at Violet J Day Spa. … The [tables] are well padded.

Tina on Monte Vista; 4/8/18

 

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Neurosurgeon

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Occupational Therapist - pediatric

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Ophthalmologist

Dr. David Chang

650-948-9123, www.changcataract.com

I would also like to give a shout-out to Dr. David Chang. I highly recommend him.

Donna D.; 7/18/18

 

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Optometrist

Los Gatos Eye Care

15563 Union Ave., (408) 377-2020

All three doctors there are good. 

Chris T.; 1/21/16

Dr. Kitajima, Perfect Pair Optometry

www.perfectpairoptometry.com/

Recently, my husband, my two kids, and I have all been in to see Dr. Kitajima…[at] his new office near Zanotto's. My husband was fitted for new contacts, and all four of us for new glasses.  He is also helping me get my corneas healthy enough to wear contacts again.  We really like Dr. Kitajima. 

Leslie on Crestwood; 1/21/16

Dr. Burt Worrell, Advance Vision Care

545 Meridian Ave., (408) 947-2020, www.advancevisioncenter.com

I strongly recommend Dr. Burt Worrell and his associates at Advance Vision Care on Meridian Avenue. He has been my eye doctor for 15 years, treats the SF Giants, and takes great care of me. His technicians are friendly and helpful too.

John M.; 1/23/16

Visual Eyes Optometry

1172 Lincoln Ave, (408) 283-7100

I've … met with all the doctors there are liked them all. The staff is quite amazing when it comes to customer service. I can't tell you how many times I've emailed them for a last minute supply of contact lenses. I lost my glasses over the weekend … I'm not due for insurance discounts until July. They called up my insurance company and got them to authorize an early discount.

Taffy on Marshall Ave; 2/23/17

Dr. Beede

408-294-3722, 240 Meridian Ave #3

Meridian. He and his wife from the office and it is very modern, great customer service, quick appointment time, great with kids and quick turnaround with prescriptions. I have referred many of my friends to the office and everyone has had a great experience with both doctors.

Deidre P.; 2/23/17

 

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Oral Surgeon

(also see Dentist)

Wes Emison, MD, DDS

15780 Los Gatos Blvd Los Gatos, CA 95032 (408) 358-5000ø http://www.losgatosoms.com

Dr. Emison is FANTASTIC!!!!! I have 4 kids and 3 of them have had extractions with him (major ones too) with no issues and his office staff is GREAT!!!!!

Deidre on Cherry; 9/1/16

Dr Wayne Ichikawa 

1580 Winchester Blvd, Ste 101, Campbell, (408) 379-5360

I used Dr. Wayne Ichikawa for my son when he was 16 because I did not want to put him under in case of complications to anesthesia. Dr. Ichikawa did not use dissolving stitches, so she had to go back a week later to have [them] taken out. Heard [they] could sometimes fall out early which could cause dry socket. 

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 9/1/16

 

I second the recommendation for Dr. Ichikawa!!  Not only is he a gentle and excellent oral surgeon, he is less expensive than most other oral surgeons (especially important if you are paying without insurance!), AND a super nice man!  The only bad thing is, because of his reputation, he is very busy!  

Sally on Doralee Way; 9/1/16

9/1/16Periodontists
Mark C. Fagan, DDS, MS,  

1660 Willow St, (408) 269-1060

I have gone to him for my two gum grafting and will be soon going for 3rd one in couple of months. He was highly recommended  by my dentist. …I am very happy that I went to him. He was gentle, precise, quick, steady hands when comes to put stitches in your mouth (ouchhhh!!). 

Anu on Dry Creek; 2/8/16

 

I am a general dentist is Willow Glen, and do refer many of my patients to Dr. Fagan for periodontal treatment and implant placement.  He is a wonderful, skilled and compassionate practitioner. … picking a specialist that your general dentist trusts and works well with is a crucial,…

John P. on Lincoln Ave.; 2/8/16

 

Advice from a practicing dentist

Anyone looking for an oral surgeon should have been referred by their general dentist. Their dentist should know the patient's specific needs and be sending the person to the most appropriate professional. By taking a referral from the elist you risk seeking care from the wrong professional. For example, of the docs listed above: [one] is a periodontist (gum and bone treatments). [another] is an endodontist (root canal treatments), …. Having a general dentist you trust is the first step to understanding the need for a referral and then getting sent to the proper professional, one that your general dentist has a good working relationship with and shares a similar practice philosophy with too. …

John on Michigan; February 16, 2011

 

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Orthodontist

Stephanie Loller

891 S. Bascom (at Fruitvale), (408) 298-0777

Invisalign is expensive, but the results have been impressive and I love the office staff and the latest technologies they use there. I started my invisalign journey at age 68 and the results have been remarkable.  If you’d like further information, contact me personally.

Carol L.; 3/11/17

Phelps & Cohen

https://www.phelpscohenortho.com/

Phelps & Cohen are excellent. Their office is located near Valley Fair Mall. They have a very modern office and an amazing staff. Both of my daughters have been patients of Phelps & Cohen with excellent results.

Holly on Jonathan; 10/18/17

Dr. Nancy Gum

1688 Willow St, (408) 269-3436

I am an adult currently wearing braces. ... I go to Dr. Nancy Gum.  She is on Willow Street near Meridian.

Cheryl on Glenfield Dr.; 10/18/17

 

Dr. Gum was my youngest son's orthodontist and she is awesome! I used a different orthodontist for my older two sons and he was not awesome ....  which made the experience w Nancy Gum all the more pleasant!

Carol on Hamilton Way; 10/18/17

Mashouf Orthodontics

1670 Westwood Dr., www.drmashouf.com‎, (408) 478-9456‎

We had 4 family members at Mashouf Orthodontics…. Two kids had traditional braces, one adult had Invisalign and one adult had a simple retainer to bring the teeth back to post-braces straight. All were happy.  Friendly staff. Good results. 

Jill on Britton

jhagaman@comcast.net

10/19/17

 

General information

I would encourage anyone who believes they or their children require orthodontic care should ask the opinion of their general dentist. You picked your dentist because he has a style and values you agree with, and he will steer you to an orthodontist who has a similar style and set of values. I have had patients ask their friends for a referral and then had to work with a doctor I don't know and do not have a clear working relationship with, and that can cause confusion and complications. You really can't make a mistake - all the orthodontists in our area are nice guys and good doctors.

John Pisacane, DDS on Lincoln; June 15, 2011

 

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Orthopedic

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Physical Therapist

MORE Physical Therapy

https://www.morephysicaltherapy.com/mobile/index.html

… my family have used to great benefit…

Marguerite on Kayellen; 5/31/18

OPTM on Meridian

https://optmtherapy.com/

… my family have used to great benefit…

Marguerite on Kayellen; 5/31/18

Luc Nguyen

1081 S. Winchester Blvd.,  408-753-9988, https://www.specializedptsolutions.com/

I strongly recommend Luc Nguyen.  He used to be at OPTM and now has his own office.  I've gone to him for PT relating to back pain and also in connection with rehab after knee surgery.  He is excellent.

Suzanne R.; 5/31/18

 

My husband also swears by Luc Nguyen for his PT following rotator cuff surgery. 

Mary (formerly on Georgetta); 5/31/18

Andrew Petulla, South Bay Physical Therapy

2048 Lincoln Ave., 408-448-7060

Andrew Petulla at South Bay Physical Therapy right in Willow Glen at Lincoln and Malone.  He owns the practice and has treated my whole family. Many years of experience. I highly recommend him.

Linda on Franquette; 5/31/18

 

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Podiatrist

Los Gatos Podiatry

http://www.losgatospodiatrygroup.com/ 

Los Gatos Podiatry is fantastic.  They take their time to discuss the problem and couldn't be any nicer.  Highly recommend!

Cathy formerly of Willow Street; ~11/1/16

Dr. Elardo

408-358-6234, www.sjfeet.com 

really great! 

Kirsten on Glenwood; 3/19/16

Dr. Richard Meltzer

(408) 358-6234, http://www.sjfeet.com/dr_meltzer.html

He was head of podiatric surgery at both Kaiser and Good Samaritan. I've had two surgeries with him, with very good results, much better than I had hoped for. Others in my family have seen him for various complaints from neuromas to painfully ingrown toenails, and he and his colleagues in the practice have been great.

Elissa on Laurie; 11/28/16, 3/24/17, 9/21/18

 

I highly recommend Dr. Richard Meltzer.  He has performed two bunion surgeries on me and he and all his staff are wonderful.  If he is not available, the other doctors in his practice are great too.

Becky on Lennon Way; 9/24/18

 

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Senior Housing

(also see Senior Medical Care)

 

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Senior Medical Care / Caregiver

Katie Copsey, Home Care Assistance

(925) 558-5103, kcopsey@homecareassistance.com, homecareassistance.com/los-gatos/home-care/

I am forwarding the information for Home Care Assistance.  They are a company that can provide multiple levels of services/care for your mother-in-law… based on your needs. I recommend you talk to Katie Copsey.  She can answer your questions about services, availability, pricing and more. 

Greg on Sweetbriar; 10/27/16

Hiede Corr

408-781-0972

I can also recommend Hiede - she has been caring part time for my neighbor. Wonderful caregiver and a very sweet person!

Peggy on Glen Eyrie Ave; 10/27/16

Nati McCoy (408-826-2080) and Cruz Ibanez (408-859-2650)

My uncle just passed away and I wanted to recommend his excellent caregivers. They treated him so kindly, as if he were family. They helped him with showers, dressing, meals, home maintenance, laundry and many other tasks. If anyone is in need of such services for their loved ones, I highly recommend [them].

Barbara on Husted; 10/27/17

 

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Services

Airport Transportation / Shuttle / Taxis / Limousines

Angel Loya, Angel On Time Airport Shuttle

(408) 667-0712 (Mobile), angelshuttel@gmail.com

Angel consistently arrives at our home at (before) the arranged time.  We have been using his service for several years now, for early morning to late night service for both SJC and SFO. He charges a flat rate.  We have been using his service for several years now, for early morning to late night service for both SJC and SFO.  Angel is most courteous and a truly nice person. I highly recommend him!

Bev on Richland; 4/30/16, 4/17/17

 

If you want a private shuttle, I have had good experience with Angel Loya. I believe I heard about him first via this list.

Debbie on Garden Glen Way; 3/13/18

 

I highly recommend Angel!  We have used Angel over the years, & also just recently: he is indeed always on time, reliable and most pleasant. We've never been disappointed.

Bev on Richland Ave.; 3/13/18

Marian Heinkel

marianheinkel@gmail.com

Contact Marian Heinkel. I included her email at the top. She drives for UBER, Lyft and Safe rides for kids. She is also a WG mom. Very dependable!

Debbi on Hazelwood; 2/11/16

Yellow Cab

408.777.7777; http://www.yellowcheckercab.com/

Another shout out for Yellow Cab.  Always reliable, and safe.

Peggy on Glen Eyrie; 4/18/17

 

I agree. Yellow Cab is reliable, affordable, and on time.

Tina on Monte Vista; 4/18/17

Jose of Limo Services

(408) 259-9520, limoservicesinc@gmail.com

Very reliable and professional.

Karen on Blewett; 6/13/18

 

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Alterations / Seamstress / Embroidery / Tailor

Best Alterations

3155 S. Bascom Ave. #C, Campbell 408-369-0850

[Best Alterations is] right next door to Al Castello Restaurant and Wingstop.  They are very nice and do accommodate rushes.

Kirsten on Glenwood; 4/17/16

Alterations By Ioana

840 Willow St #100 (southwest corner of Bird and Willow), 408-288-5091

[Ioano recommended by]

Neal J.; 9/9/16

 

The place on Bird and Willow is great! I think it's called Alterations by Iona. 

Andrea C.; 9/27/16

 

[Ioana] and her team are great.

Maria S.; 2/4/18

Irena, Valley Custom Tailor

60 Winchester Blvd # 2, Santa Clara, (408) 243-1995

It is near Valley Fair, off Winchester.

Anu on Dry Creek; 9/9/16

Riverside Cleaners

795 W Hamilton Avenue, Campbell

I started using Riverside Cleaners last year and really like them.  They’re reasonable, friendly, fast, and do a great job.  They also do an excellent job on alterations.  They’re located in a little shopping center … between San Tomas Expwy and San Tomas Aquino Rd on the right side if you’re coming from WG. 

Karin on Crescent; 1/3/16

Melody Anesacci

408-826-1531

If you are looking to recover outdoor/indoor cushions or outdoor kitchens (outdoor furniture and bbq, ect), or need a seamstress call Melody.  She is reasonable, fast and excellent - maybe your neighbor has already used her skills!

Margaret; 7/21/16

Ratnapapa

408-718-3239, ratnapapa@hotmail.com

Ratnapapa is great with dresses and has been working on them for many years. 

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 4/16/18

 

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Banners & Signs; Silk Screening

VIP Embroidery Inc.

2149 Stone Avenue, Ste 2, 408.971.6601

[Custom Printed T-shirts:]  I recommend VIP Embroidery (they don't just do embroidery):

Tina on Monte Vista; 11/7/16

 

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Books

Hicklebees

1378 Lincoln Ave. (north of Minnesota, east side of street) (408) 292-8880 http://www.hicklebees.com/

Nationally renowned emporium of children's books.  They also serve grown-ups, are the local source of the Willow Glen Historic Walking Tour book, and can special order anything else.

Larry on Willow, 3/1/18

 

[Hicklebees makes] special orders for items in other categories, such as adult/teen books and & calendars. Excellent & prompt service, efficient & friendly staff. I don't know what I'd do without them, especially at this gift-giving time every year.

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 11/30/17

 

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Bicycles / Bike Repair

Slough's Bike Shoppe 

260 Race Street; (408) 293-1616 ‎

a remarkable place, hidden inside an apartment complex, directly across from Race Street Fish Market.  "Old School", high-end and custom-made bikes and repairs

Larry (on Willow); 3/1/18

Good Karma Bikes

http://goodkarmabikes.org/; 460 Lincoln Ave #15; (408) 291-0501

an unusual store: retail sales & services for the general public, and lots of donated bikes and help for the disadvantaged.

Larry (on Willow); 3/1/18

Mike’s Bikes

1180 Lincoln Ave; (408) 295-2453; http://mikesbikes.com/

On Lincoln, a block south of Willow.  Large, well-stocked store with friendly service

Larry (on Willow); 3/1/18

Trek Bicycle Store of San Jose

Plant Shopping Center, 111 Curtner Ave #80; (408) 264-2453; www.sanjosetrek.com

New location: in “The Plant” at Monterey Hwy. 

Larry (on Willow); Mar 5, 2017

 

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Clock and Watch Repair

Almaden Clocks

5371 Camden, 408-265-2133

…one size [Clock Key] does not fit all. Take your clock to Almaden Clock and they will match the correct one for your clock. Keys run about $5 - $8. Wayne is my go to for clock cleaning and repair, as well as missing keys.

Bruce off Lincoln; 10/29/17

Josh Kroman, Kroman Watchworks

6472 Camden Ave, kromanwatchworks.com

Josh is your go-to expert for all things watch related. See his website for all the services his specializes in. A real artist!

Suzanne on Olive Hill Drive; 3/23/16

 

Our family highly recommends [Wayne at Almaden Clock Shop]! Good luck

Janismo, WGW expat; 10/16/18

 

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Clothing

Tuxedo Rental:
Suit and Tux Boutique

1590 Winchester Blvd, Campbell, (408) 866-8866

My son rented tuxes for proms several times at Suit and Tux Boutique at the corner of Hamilton and Winchester and we were very pleased.

Margaret on Palm Haven; 10/22/17

 

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Computer Repair

Don Heinsen, Systems Engineer

(408)559-4000 or Cell: 408/580-6795; dhkybds@earthlink.net

[Don Heinsen]...he's a very knowledgeable and friendly one-man computer-repair company, a local resident who is available to help at apparently any hour of the day.  He can remove the hard-drive from your machine, connect it to one of his systems, and use numerous techniques to recover the data.

Larry (on Willow); 3/1/18

 

Don Heinsen has been a great help to me over the years as my go-to IT guy. He's local, born and raised in Willow Glen.

Peggy on GEA; 4/3/17

 

Don is very good! I've used him since around 2005.

Larry R.; 4/3/17

 

… a small ordeal … resolved thanks to some hand holding by enlisting help from Don Heinsen. … I called Don, arranged for a same day visit, and he delivered what I really needed which was help getting it going. …I'm grateful Don was able to make the visit and gave me the service I needed when I needed.

Greg A.; 10/20/17

Frank Bejan, MicroComp

1268 Lincoln Avenue, (408) 295-8050

If still searching, try Frank at Micro-Comp in WG, right on Lincoln Avenue. He is an IT professional handling various computer issues for many years. Good luck.

Jacquie A.; 4/3/17

 

[Frank] is very good, meticulous, friendly and very polite.  

Sue on Dean; 4/12/17

Bay Area Computerman

3680 Stevens Creek Blvd, Suite F (near San Tomas Expressway), 408-249-4821

They have helped with several issue including a cracked case / hinge on my laptop which Geek Squad said wasn't repairable …. BA Computerman ordered a part and fixed it in 2 days at a very reasonable price. Last week, my son's laptop's screen went dark in the middle of a big project. Computerman replaced the LED and had it working very quickly.

Carol on Hamilton Way; 5/31/18

David Chaid

https://www.moonlighting.com/

IT [and computer] repairs and problem solving. Lives in Willow Glen.

*self-recommend* Gail on California; gchaid@gmail.com; 12/19/17

Computer Repair – Apple
Click Away

457 E. McGlincy Ave., Campbell, 408-626-9400

I highly recommend ClickAway for any computer repair work. They work on Microsoft or Macintosh. You can take it in, or for a fee they will make a house call. They are great.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 11/6/17; 12/9/17

 

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Consignment, Antiques, Second-hand

SilverLeaf Antiques

(408) 205-1875, silverleaf6@sbcglobal.net

You can try SilverLeaf Antiques.  We used them for an estate liquidation and he did a great job.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 6/5/18

 

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Crafts and Hobbies; Arts and Crafts Supplies

A Work of Heart

2196 Lincoln Ave., (408) 266-1005, www.aworkofheart.com

Very much agreed!  [that A Work of Heart is a great find]. Plus the company of a charming shop cat at no extra charge -- lovely place to visit.

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 8/26/16

 

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Dry cleaners

Riverside Cleaners

795 W. Hamilton Ave., Campbell

I started using Riverside Cleaners last year and really like them.  They’re reasonable, friendly, fast, and do a great job.  They also do an excellent job on alterations.  They’re located in a little shopping center … between San Tomas Expwy and San Tomas Aquino Rd on the right side if you’re coming from WG. 

Karin on Crescent; 1/3/16

Dry Cleaners (Leather)
Rex Cleaners

60 Race St., (408) 292-0363

I suggest if this is the first time [you are] getting your coat dry cleaned and not sure then [you] must go in the morning and talk the owner yourself. He gives a honest opinion of do-ability as well as price. They do a darn good job of dry-cleaning of one-of-a-kind clothing.  

Anu on Dry Creek ; 1/12/19

 

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Estate Sale

 

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Exercise Class / Gymnastics

Lift Exercise Studio

1202 Lincoln Ave., 408-292-2263, http://liftexercise.com/

Yes! Lift Exercise Studio on Lincoln behind Black Sheep Brasserie. Barre and bike classes. Phenomenal setting and amazing instructors. 

Sara on Michigan; 11/3/17

 

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Framing (art & pictures)

 

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Furniture Shops

Office Furniture
Kevin, Demetra Cabinetry

Rogers Avenue near Brokaw Road, 408-436-8684 

Best quality cabinets, great design assistance.

Joy on Willow Glen Way; 4/1/16

One Workplace Office

2500 De La Cruz Blvd. Santa Clara, (669) 800-2500, http://www.oneworkplace.com/about-locations/

The Ferrari family runs it and they're Willow Glen residents too. Very nice people to work with and they have a great selection of items for your business.

Dan on Greencreek Dr.; 4/1/16

 

Julie is the best, as is One Workplace!!

Laura near Bird and Willow; 4/5/16

One Workplace

2500 De La Cruz Blvd., Santa Clara, (669) 800-2500,  www.oneworkplace.com

We are the largest furniture, technology and architectural products dealer in North America and will take great care of you. We can help you from collaborating and creating the design that best fits your needs and your culture. We will design, order and install whatever it is you need. We service clients of all sizes…. 

*self-recommend* Julie Jarvis, jjarvis@oneworkplace.com; 4/5/16

 

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Gifts

Mariette Fruit Chocolates

1268 Lincoln Avenue 

[recommended by]

Larry on Willow, 3/1/18

 

Yes - scrumptious chocolate from wonderful people!

Taffy on Marshall; 2/12/18 

 

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Hardware

ReStore

1608 Las Plumas Ave., 408-933-3608

…a new and spacious 2nd-hand and surplus hardware store: doors, windows, appliances (e.g., fridges and cooktops from a motel remodel), furnishings, new odd-lots of nuts-and-bolts, plumbing, play houses, ..., at low cost, w/ proceeds supporting Habitat for Humanity.

Larry on Willow; 3/1/18

 

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Holiday Lights Installation & Christmas Tree Decorations

Holiday Lights

408-384-XMAS (9627), www.HolidayLightsBayArea.com

I have used Holiday Lights for several years.  Same people that live on Foxworthy.  They have done my house, my parents’ house and several of the shopping centers I manage.  I work with Scott, but I would think anyone there could get you set up.

Cheryl on Glenfield Dr.; 11/2/16

 

We also have a two story Tudor with two large gables. We have Holiday Lights put ours up and take them down. They have been doing our house for at least the last 5 years. Wouldn’t have anyone else.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 11/20/17

Willow Glen Christmas Ornaments
Details

1322 Lincoln Ave., (408) 286-5555

Hicklebee’s

1378 Lincoln Ave., (408) 292-8880

Willow Glen Business Association

1261 Lincoln Ave. 217B, (408) 298-2100, www.willowglen.org

Bella James

1151 Lincoln Ave., 408.292.0000

Island Inspired

1314 Lincoln Ave, Ste 1a, (669) 230-3908

Mariette Chocolates

1268 Lincoln Ave., 408-295-9050

Street Christmas Trees
David Green

PO Box 2976, 95070, 408-279-2451

We do the trees in the Glen Eyrie quadrant.  We get our trees from David Green.  He is already working on tree orders for this year.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 11/6/18

 

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House sitter

Debbie Taylor

debspetsit@gmail.com,(408) 705-0458

She's a long-time volunteer with the 13th Street Cats rescue group & experienced with all kinds of pets.  Nice person who's also very reliable & trustworthy.

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 8/3/16

 

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Jewelers & Jewelry / Coin Appraisal

Jewelry Repair
Manns Jewelers

1347 Lincoln Ave., www.mannsdiamonds.com

Try Mann’s Jewelers.

Pam on Wren; 3/5/17

 

[Mann’s has] restrung pearls, done repairs, and also provide watch batteries. Easier parking than at the mall, same low prices, friendly people, and keeping the business here in our community. I recommend them even for costume jewelry repair.

Tina on Monte Vista; 3/30/18

 

A few years back I bought a ring with a very complex pattern…and took it there to get it sized.  It was a challenging job because of the intricate pattern, and I was in a hurry for it….  Mann's did a great job, and in a great hurry.  I would never go anywhere else.

Carol on Curtis; 3/30/18

 

I've been going to Mann's for over 30+ years.....they do the finest repairs ever, friendly and reasonable prices. The even took one of my diamonds, and two of the other Mother in law diamond earrings and made the most beautiful wedding ring for my son's fiancée...the ring has history from both families and just looks stunning. In fact, I'm going in there next week with watches to be fixed.

Donna D.; 3/31/18

 

Mann’s is great!

Kathleen on Fairview; 4/1/18

Gold Star Jewelers

1379 Lincoln Ave.

My wife brought in two necklaces needing minor repair yesterday, and the owner and his staff repaired them while she waited. Upon completion, the owner said there was no charge. We also used them a few months back for a larger jewelry repair project, and they came in ahead of schedule and under budget.

Dave on Carolyn; 8/30/17

De Tagle Jewelers

14400 Union Ave., 408-377-7000

I second De Tagle!

Kathleen on Fairview; 2/9/17

Sew Beadazzled

1068 Lincoln Ave., 408-293-2232

Depending on the repair, there is a bead store Sew Bedazzled on Lincoln, down by Jake’s Pizza. They are very nice, very reasonable and do a good job on simple fixes.

Kathleen on Fairview; 4/1/18

 

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Knife and Tool Sharpening

 

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Organizer and Home Staging

Olga

408-839-8482

I can recommend Olga as an excellent, self-starting, personable organizer. Please let her know I referred you. 

Karen on Blewett; 8/8/17

Home Staging / Remodel Advice
Leslie Marshall, Coldwell Banker

www.coldwellbankerhomes.com/ca/san-jose/agent/leslie-leslie-d-marshall/aid_11325/

I'd recommend Leslie Marshall, of Willow Glen. She did what you've described - help me decide which changes would be worth the money and the best way to do them so that when I did sell it would help the sale value. And she did it for free. She was wonderful to work with and a wonderful person.

Tina on Monte Vista; 6/24/18

Mary Ann Wallace, Intero

maryann@homesbywallace.com

She has transformed so many homes prior to sale, and LOVES the process!  She has a great team of contractors to do the work (many of whom I've used), and she makes sure the updates get her clients a big return. I always go to Mary Ann first to get her opinion on potential home updates. 

Lisa on Crescent; 6/24/18

 

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Photographer / Portraits / Artists

Valencia Howard Photography

valenciahowardphotography@gmail.com

My gallery is valenciahowardphotography.weebly.com

*self-recommend* Valencia Howard, valencia.lie.howard@gmail.com; 5/30/16

Photograph Printing
Henry, Foto Express

304 E Santa Clara St., (408) 971-3977

[Recommend] Henry of Foto Express. Very inexpensive. Excellent quality!

Karen on Blewett; 12/21/14, 7/13/16

Richard Johns, Superior Color Lab

2092 Lincoln Ave (between Malone & Terra Bella, east side of street), (408) 269-5725

This may be more talent than you need, but I do think he's the best (very nice man, too).

Richard runs the shop alone & sometimes has to step out, so it's best to call first & arrange for a time to visit.

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 7/13/16

 

I highly recommend Richard at Superior Color. I've worked with him for years. 

Nina on El Rio; 7/13/16

 

I also highly recommend Superior Color Lab. Excellent quality of work!

Sara on Michigan; 7/13/16

Foto Express

304 E Santa Clara St., (408) 971-3977

Have you tried Foto Express Downtown near City Hall? Right off Santa Clara at 7th. Henry does great work, in house.

Kathi on Cherry; 12/17/18

Photo Restoration, Enlargement, Repair
Superior Color Lab

2092 Lincoln Ave., 408-269-5725

I agree about Superior Color Lab.  Richard is very knowledgeable & experienced -- if he couldn't do it, he'd probably be able to refer you to someone who could.  The shop's hours are sometimes irregular, so it's a good idea to call first.

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 4/17/17, 1/14/18

 

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Personal Assistant

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Personal Care: Hair Salon / Stylist / Spa / Tanning / Manicure & Pedicure / Nails / Beards / Facials

City Savvy

2020 South Bascom Avenue Campbell; 377-4122

 [Patti at City Savvy is] amazing and everyone with curly hair that I have recommended them have been over the moon on the results. They also have the most amazing esthetician on the planet Cathy Leigh Savage and do permanent make-up. They do keratin and Brazilian for those of you with curly hair. Lisa Enge does extension with real hair.  There are 2 other stylists in the salon I would recommend: Kellee and Kristin.

Jan C; 6/6/16

Stacey Williams, Somewhair

1373 Lincoln Ave, (408) 298-1733, 408-391-7776

THE best hair colorist (and stylist) I know is Stacey Williams … on Lincoln Ave - a few doors down from Le Boulanger. Not only is she fantastic with color, her pricing is VERY reasonable.   Easy to arrange appointments times with via text messaging

Karen on Blewett; 6/6/16, 11/1/16

 

Here’s another vote for Stacey at Somewhair!  Great stylist and reasonably priced too.  I asked for “wash and wear” hair due to my lack of skills and honestly my hair has never looked so good. She’s a miracle.

Carol L.; 11/2/16

Nail Elegance

1165 Lincoln Ave, Ste 120 (in the Garden Theater), 408-885-1305

I have been going to Nail Elegance in the Garden Theatre for many years.  Tina and her crew are great.

Barbara on Hawkhurst; 4/26/17

Pure Bliss Day Spa

6055 Meridian Ave # 40, (408) 268-5300, www.pureblissdayspa.com/

A good friend of mine is the owner of Pure Bliss Day Spa in Almaden. All her services are excellent. 

Tell her I referred you for extra TLC;-)

Manon on Maykirk; 6/1/16

Skin Care by Vena

http://www.skincarebyvena.com

We have a great local esthetician: Vena on Brace.

Jan C.; 6/1/16

Liz Gorman

(408) 903-8906

My stylist Liz Gorman does beautiful hair (and makeup) for occasions as well as great everyday cuts and color.

I have seen her do wonders with adults, teens and kids of all genders, hair types and personal styles; she's just great.

Elissa on Laurie; 8/16/16; 7/3/17; 4/17/18, 7/22/18

Joseph Trusty, Studio 8 Salon

1685 Westwood Drive #10, 408-858-9990

I’ve been with Joseph for 25 years.  He maintains a spacious, clean, peaceful one-man shop.  Joseph loves continuing education and is always up on the latest styles.  He is a true expert with color.  He even attends local jewelry/accessory shows so he can offer a bit of retail in his shop.

Jill on Britton; 9/16/16, 11/2/16

Jeff and Roberta, JR Roberts salon

1562 Meridian Ave., 408-377-0911

I get a fairly simple haircut, but Jeff and Roberta at JR Roberts salon on Meridian see lots of clients

and get rave reviews for fancy ladies styles and custom coloring.

John M.; 11/2/16

My Nails

4300 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, 408-982-9987

I've been very happy with My Nails in Santa Clara. Great service and prices.

Tina on Monte Vista; 4/26/17

Friendly Nails

2593 Almaden Rd., 408-265-8706

Judy at friendly nails at the corner of Koch and Almaden behind the dollar store, is excellent. Always on time. Would guess one of the least expensive ones and quality work. I've been going there for 20+ years.

Candy on Lansford; 4/26/17

Nail Spa by Tammy

1302 Lincoln Ave. #101, 408-947-9951

I don't go anywhere but Tammy's on Lincoln Ave. She runs a tight ship, super clean and they do an excellent job. 

Linda Edmunds; 4/26/17

Bella Donna Day Spa

1525 Meridian Ave., #103, (408) 448-4409

They are very clean with no jetted tubs for pedicures they line each tub before each use. They are excellent. I'm super picky about my nails. I followed the owner from another nail place when she opened Bella Donna.

Cynthia on Harmil; 4/26/17

Hair by Heidi

1082 Lincoln Ave #8, (408) 963-8295

Heidi … is fantastic at both cut and color, and she keeps her prices very reasonable. She also has “style and dry” prices that beat all the local blow dry bars. Heidi takes the time to research all her products as she is committed to carrying a healthy product line. Can’t say enough good things.

Lisa on Bird; 1/18/18

 

I want to second the recommendation for Hair by Heidi, who is in one of the Sola Salons on Lincoln.   I’ve gone to Heidi for years now, and she is simply the best.

Elaine G.; 1/20/18

Andrea, Gypsy Rose Salon

1230 The Alameda, (408) 854-1339

I have curly, long hair and I LOVE my hairdresser - who also has curly hair.  :-)

Mindy; 7/22/18

Child’s Haircut:
Sterling's

(408) 297-6709

Sisters Bonnie & Kathy who own Sterling's are both great with children -- I think Bonnie usually takes the younger ones.  Corner of W. San Carlos & Shasta (where Cash & Carry is, & the See's store), on the end facing Shasta -- open Tues through Sat.

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 10/6/16

Coloring
Ernie Sierra, Sola Salon Suites, Glam & Groom #25

1082 Lincoln Ave., 408-646-3315

I recommend my stylist Ernie on Lincoln next to Manley’s Donuts. I am currently a blonde and former brunette.

Christina on Almaden Expwy; 10/23/18

Waxing
Cathy Savage, City Savvy 

408-377-4122, Corner of Bascom and Campbell

Call Cathy Savage at City Savvy 408-377-4122 Corner of Bascom and Campbell

Jan C.; 6/21/17

 

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Piano Repair, Tuning, Moving

Bay Area Piano Movers

(650) 921-6645

Use Bay Area Piano Movers!  They are the best and I just used them.  The owners name is Mike and he is super on the ball and flexible and on time.  They are also one of the few companies that have the appropriate insurance and license and Worker’s Compensation to move pianos.

MK on Foxworthy; 1/29/18

 

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Printing & Paper Supplies / Stationary

Kelly Paper

1676 Monterey Road (south of Alma, on east side), (408) 885-1890

It’s a large warehouse wholesale distributor of paper, the supplier to the local printers.  Open 7:30 to 5.  They will sell to the public: individual reams of paper, envelopes by the box of 500, etc.

They carried the special thickness and color paper that I couldn’t find elsewhere, and saw that they also stocked a wide variety that I didn’t even know were made.

Larry on Willow; 3/1/18

 

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Realtor / Real Estate Brokers

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Self-Storage

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Shoe & Luggage Repair

Cobbler's Bench

60 Winchester Blvd, Santa Clara; 408/249-0439

…amazing service the Cobbler's Bench…(across from Valley Fair)... I'd taken a 10-year-old TravelPro rollaboard in for service last Fall because the handles got stuck in the up position…They tried for months...they are going to replace it with a new one -- with no cost to me… I highly recommend them…

Rebecca on Newport; 3/28/16

 

I agree.  I took an old, but nice leather dog leash there [to Cobbler’s Bench]. The stitching had come loose so there was no longer a loop.  No need to throw out the leash. They charged me 10 bucks and fixed it while I waited.

Lynn on Clintonia; 3/28/16

 

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Shopping Delivery Services

 

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Sports / Sporting Goods

Athletic Shoes
Athletic Performance

1115 Lincoln Ave, (408) 297-0100; theathleticperformance.co

I took my son to Athletic Performance… to be fitted for running shoes for track as he was experiencing extreme heel pain with his current shoes. We received excellent, very knowledgeable and friendly service and a week later he is running very comfortably. We will definitely be going back!

Carolyn on Winona; 2/26/16

 

My husband was sent [to Athletic Performance] for shoes to help plantar fasciitis--which, now that I think of it, he hasn't mentioned in ages. I guess that says it all. Great people and products.

​Barb on Blewett; 2/26/16

 

A friend of mine had foot surgery and needed particular characteristics in her shoes for the recovery process.  The person who waited on her at Athletic Performance listened and came up with just what she needed.   

Gayle on Blewett; 2/26/16

 

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Travel Agents

Debby Leong, Bravo Travel

(650) 631-6638, bravobeachvacations.com

…invaluable in planning our trip to Maui... She knows all of the hotels/locations/amenities…AND got the horrible "resort fee" waived for us. [I appreciated] the short survey you fill out on her web site--that way, she knows what you're looking for, what you like and what you don't…and when you speak with her for the first time, she'll already have good ideas for you and she won't present anything that's not in your price range. 

Elissa on Laurie; 10/5/16

Cruises
Santa Cruz Travel

831.426.4900

We have used Santa Cruz Travel many times for various trips. They have given us lots of advice on where to stay, how to get there, visa assistance and also helped us set up a car and driver in Italy when we wanted to go to a place off the beaten path.

Marguerite on Kayellen; 6/11/18

Colonial Travel Agency

http://colonialtravel.com/

I'd strongly recommend Colonial Travel Agency. My sister, Beth, owns it, and she is super organized and responsible and will make sure your in-laws get just the right cruise. p.s. She loves to work with seniors.

Dan on Coe; 6/11/18

 

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Video Photography

 

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Web Designer

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Zumba, Yoga, & Personal Training

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Pets

Pet Care: Multi-service

Burbank Animal Hospital

1819 W. San Carlos near Shasta, 408-271-7875

My [dog] was well cared for by that wonderful staff, so much so that he actually liked going there. He had a bunch of issues and they helped us deal with all the options. Dr. Kumar was his favorite. We live nearer other vets, but the short drive was worth it.

Bruce off Lincoln; 8/10/17

 

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Pet Grooming

Quality Pet Spot

1120 Bird Ave #G (next to Walgreen’s), 408-982-5656, www.qualitypetspot.com

I had a great experience at Quality Pet Spot Groomers today. The shop is spotless and the owners and employees were really friendly. The dogs were happy and came out looking adorable.  And the prices were the same as Petsmart where I usually go. I definitely recommend!

Cathy on Willow Street; 2/21/16

 

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Pet Habitats

 

Dog park listing

http://www.wagntrain.com/dog_parks.htm

The closest official dog park to WG is Delmas Park just north of San Carlos along Hwy 87. The next would probably be Lincoln High School community park (Rose Garden area), Butcher Park at Camden near Hillsdale, or Selma-Olinder. Many people use the amphitheater at Bramhall Park (on Willow) and River Glen park (Bird and Pine) as unofficial dog parks but please note it is not legal to have your dog off-leash there (and they are not fenced in).

Stacy on Nightingale; February 2, 2012

[There’s a new dog park at DelMonte, on Auzerais at the Los Gatos Creek Trail, just north of I-280 and 2 blocks east of Lincoln. -- L. Ames 3/1/18]

 

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Pet Sitting & Boarding / Kennels

Rebecca Goldstone,Willow Glen Paws

rebecca@willowglenpaws.com; (408) 391-3660ø rpg@dnl-catering.com

I recommend Rebecca for dog sitting!

Brigette on Glenkirk Ct; 3/18/16

Debbie Taylor

408-705-0458; debspetsit@gmail.com 

Debbie Taylor is an experienced & reliable pet sitter who can stay overnight when necessary.  She's a volunteer with the 13th Street Cat Rescue group & has cared for all kinds of animals -- conscientious, trustworthy, & has lots of common sense.

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 8/3/16

Kaytlin, Willow Glen Pet Sitting

http://www.wgpets.com/

We had Kaytlin with Willow Glen pet sitting come by to take care of our cat, chickens, and houseplants while we were on vacation this summer.  She did a great job.

Jen J.; 8/3/16

Thera Gonis, Fur Babies Pet Sitting

408-410-2011

I finally found the perfect dog sitter… She took excellent care of our dog and home while we were on vacation for over a week.  She sent daily photos and updates at my request… She handled twice daily feedings, walks and cared for our cat while we were away too.  

Holly on Jonathan; 12/9/16

The Kitty Hotel

2020 S Bascom Ave # B, Campbell, (408) 377-7745

We use the Kitty Hotel and have been very happy with them.

Neal on Prevost; 6/7/7

Spots

2470 De La Cruz Blvd., Santa Clara, (408) 727-7687

Spots on de la Cruz in Santa Clara [is] a cageless boarding facility for both dogs and cats  The cats have a nice room with climbing structures. It was a very successful experience for my cat   My dogs have been going there for years.  open 24/7

Nina on El Rio; 6/26/17; 5/14/18

We Dog Care

351 Lincoln Ave., (408) 533-0252, www.wedogcare.com

We Dog Care is very nice- that is where I go. They have socialization during the day as part of their program.  

Barbara on Husted; 8/16/16

 

+1 to We Dog Care.

Neal J.; 1/31/17, 6/24/17 

Tracy Corral

tracy@tracypetsitter.com

She sits several cats in Willow Glen.

Bob on Bird; 11/8/18

 

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Pet Store

 

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Pet Training / Dog Therapists / Socializing

Stacy Braslau-Schneck, Stacy's Wag'N'Train

stacy@wagntrain.com

[Wag n Train:]... pure magic on getting dogs who were originally recalcitrant to happily do as she asked, plus the advice she gives on this list is spot-on. She worked with my emotionally damaged dog, and I had the opportunity to watch her work with other dogs, and she's just brilliant and understanding them (and their humans) and fixing what's wrong. In my experience she's essentially magic with dogs.

Elissa on Laurie; 9/3/16; 8/10/17

 

[Stacy is] very experienced in all dog issues including behavioral... She is very experienced, is a certified trainer and I can whole heartily recommend her services to anyone interested in brushing up on basic obedience skills or looking to train a new puppy they just brought home.  

Rebecca on Redondo; 3/18/16

 

I have heard great things about Stacy and that is who we plan to use as well.  We were recommended by Rebecca Goldstone a phenomenal doggie daycare person. 

Andy G. or Chris T.; 10/14/17

Downtown Dogs

734 S 1st St., 408-287-2267, www.downtowndogs.com

Downtown Dogs has a Puppy Social on Saturday's.  Here is a link to information on it:  downtowndogs.com - Play Events 

Mary on Booksin; 2/10/16

Dog Training by Kimberly McCarty

kimberlymccarty@gmail.com; 408-705-3191

[She’s] the best!

Kirsten on Glenwood; 2/3/18

 

We LOVE Kimberly McCarty. We’ve worked with her with two of our dogs and currently have a 6-month old puppy. She’s a total gift!

Jill on Britton; 2/3/18

 

Another yes to Kimberly McCarty!  She is so good with the dogs AND owners as well.  I have used her for both of my dogs. She is amazing!

Linda on Lambert; 2/3/18

CaliK9

2123 S. 10th St., 408-770-7556, https://calik9.com/

We took our lab to CaliK9 for training. They're located on 10th Street.  I HIGHLY recommend them.  We take our dog to We Dog Care for daycare and boarding. 

Regan on Jansen; 2/3/18

Sybl A Saisselin CFDT, K9 Keep Fit

408-316-2455, https://www.facebook.com/K9Keepfit/

I'm the manager and lead dog trainer at K9 Keep Fit on Meridian Avenue. We're starting a puppy and young dog class next Thursday evening and we offer private lessons and board & train options, too.

*self-recommend*  Sybl on Delbarr Court; syblamy@gmail.com; 10/12/17

Stacy Braslau-Schneck, MA CPDT-KA CBCC-KA CAP2, Stacy's Wag'N'Train

www.wagntrain.com, http://willowglendogtrainer.com/

I do private lessons and also day-training. All the information about my services (as well as a LOT of training tips and advice!) are on my website.

*self-recommend* Stacy on Nightingale; stacy.wagntrain@gmail.com; 10/12/17

 

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Pet Walking

Chris Driscoll 

(408) 375-2015

2nd Chris Driscoll!

Kathie on Pine; 5/11/17

 

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Service Animals

 

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Veterinarian

Lincoln Avenue Vet Clinic

699 Lincoln Avenue, (408)400-3915, 408-293-3448

I have taken my cats to the Lincoln Avenue Vet Clinic, right at the corner of Lincoln and Parkmoor, and see lots of other animals there as well. Dr Bowden and associates are caring and the staff is great too. I would recommend them to any pet owner.

John on Michigan; 1/25/17

Dr. Jennifer Lawrence, Santa Clara Pet Hospital

408-296-5857

We love our bunny's vet. She was recommended by the Rabbit Haven. She takes a lot of time with my bunny and is very patient with my children.  

Taffy on Marshall Ave; 1/8/17

 

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Restaurants, Food & Event Services

Bakery

Flower Flour

896 Willow Street [near Bird]; (408) 279-0843; www.flower-flour.com

Flour Flower makes fantastic tasting and gorgeous cakes.  I've seen pictures of their wedding cakes and was really impressed.

Carol on Curtis; 3/5/17

Icing on the Cake

50 W Main St, Los Gatos, 408-354-2464

HANDS DOWN: Icing on the Cake is your best option. (And IMHO, superior to any other bakery in the area.)

Regan on Jansen; 7/5/16

Peter’s Bakery

3108 Alum Rock Ave, (408) 258-3529

The supplier of burnt almond cake now that Dick's has closed.

Larry on Willow, 3/1/18

Naughty Biscotti

www.naughtybiscotti.com

I order these delicious individually wrapped Biscotti and try not to eat them all in one day. They use to sell them at Lunardis. They were a local company until they/she moved to Utah a year or so ago… Lemon is my favorite with a cup of tea.  Wooza they are good!

Lynn on Clintonia; 3/28/16

Susie Cakes

1109 Lincoln Avenue, 408-446-2253, http://susiecakes.com/

I had a cupcake there shortly after they opened. The service was very good. Honestly, I thought "these cupcakes are too pretty to be very good" but I tried one anyway. It was very good! I'd definitely recommend them.

Tina on Monte Vista; 7/7/16

 

Susie Cakes was a delicious choice.  My daughter wanted chocolate for her birthday and they had a spectacular double old-fashioned round cake that tasted homemade and scrumptious.  It stayed fresh for several days without refrigeration which is how they recommend you keep it.  Then it was gone!

Joy on Willow Glen Way; 7/7/16

A Vie Bakery

923 S. Bascom, (408) 684-1888

I just discovered a recently opened coffee shop and bakery on Bascom up near Valley Medical Center.  The baked goods are created on site and are profoundly wonderful.  It’s sparkling clean and the people are really nice.  I hope it gets the business it deserves. 

Carol on De Anza Way; 4/9/17

Bread
Manresa Bread

Campbell, Los Gatos, and Los Altos, https://www.manresabread.com/

[If] you want to taste the best commercial sourdough bread in the South Bay, I recommend the Manresa Bread…. All their bread doughs are sourdough-based, and taste fantastic….

Andrew S.; 1/15/19

 

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Caterers/Catering; Party/Event Planners

(also see Restaurants)

Maricruz Espinoza's Taco Truck; Taquiza’s Dona Mari

408-334-7701

I used Taquiza’s several times.

Debbi on Hazelwood; 4/3/16

Any Time Is Taco Time

408.509.8173

[Taco Time recommended by]

Debbi on Hazelwood; 4/3/16

Five Star Taco (Miguel)

408-332-6043

Debbi on Hazelwood; 4/3/16

Anytime is Taco Time

408-293-9915

Debbi on Hazelwood; 4/3/16

Margarita’s

408-509-4009

Debbi on Hazelwood; 4/3/16

Dayna

http://www.simpleicious.com/ 

[To cater for 50+] She is wonderful and reasonable.  Her cakes are amazing also!!!!

Angie on Prevost; 8/18/16

Chef Betina, La Luna Sucre

http://lalunesucree.com

She and her husband Mark are neighbors, their efforts were rewarded by being included in the Super Bowl, fantastic to work with, and their food is sublime.

Susan on Annapolis; 12/15/16

Margarate Atherton, Cooking by Martha

408-644-5518

She's a personal chef and a caterer.  Her Chopped Indian salad is quite wonderful but I’m in love with her Asian Salad!  … If you’re looking for something more hearty, she makes the tenderest and most delectable baby back ribs I've ever had.  She calls them Sweet Chipotle.

Taffy on Marshall Ave; 12/17/16

The Party Helpers

kristin@thepartyhelpers.com, 408.435.7337

I [recommend] The Party Helpers!

Mary on Georgetta; 3/24/17

Los Cuates Meat Market

1507 S. Winchester Blvd., (408) 374-4304

I’ve mentioned this before as I used to pick these [tamales] up on the way to work… They were wonderful and a variety of choices and reasonably priced. Eventually her business was so great, they created a spot for her in the store. You can call to verify she is still doing them.

Carol on Mazzaglia; 12/30/17

Mark, Moveable Feast

408-800-6825 Office, 408-805-5299 Mobile, mark@mvblfeast.com

Call Movable Feast.  He coordinates several trucks and can help you out with one.  He is the one that organizes the trucks on Friday nights at Minnesota and highway 87.  Yummy, and all kinds of food.  My husband used him for a concert once and it worked out very well. Ask for Mark.

Jan on Glen Eyrie; 4/7/18

Opa

Willow at Lincoln; www.opaauthenticgreek.com/

They were quick (ie. not a ton of lead time), delivered >$500 for a $50 fee, and food quality was great.  Only drawback is that they didn't set up fully.

Tina on Monte Vista; 6/27/18

Sujata

sujata.sm@gmail.com

[recommended by]

Tina on Monte Vista; 6/27/18

Steve Goldstone, DNL Caterers

408 727-6093, steveg@dnl-catering.com

I would recommend DNL Caterers for your next event. Recently my church used DNL Caterers to provide dinner for 70 people. The food was very good, and plentiful. Steve worked with us on a menu of chicken piccata and salmon along with appetizers for a very good price.

Lorraine; 10/10/18

 

I second the motion!! [for Steve, DNL Catering]

Brigette O.; 8/18/16

 

I’ve worked with Steve [at DNL] at a couple of events. He is professional, reliable, and the food is great.

Tina on Monte Vista; 6/27/18, 8/8/18

Servers on Demand

408 729-7627, 1984 The Alameda #1

We also used serving help from "Servers on Demand".  Paul Davis came out, and was super helpful.  I would also recommend Servers on Demand.

Lorraine; 10/10/18

DNL Catering

408-727-6093, www.dnl-catering.com

I would like to recommend my husband, Steve, at DNL Catering.  His food, service and prices are excellent.  Please contact him for a personalized quote for your next event.  He has tons of reviews on Thumbtack. [They] have an extensive menu, but if you don’t see exactly what you want they can probably get it for you.  The owner lives here in WG.

[self-recommend] Rebecca on Redondo; rpg@dnl-catering.com; 8/18/16

Private Chefs
Chef Molly Holbrook of Organicopia

www.organicopia.com

Absolutely excellent!

Mary on Willow St.; 2/2/16

Kris Martinez

badpiggycatering@gmail.com, 408-800-1066

His catering company is geared toward BBQ, but he has quite an array of food he can prepare/cook. ….He's am amazing chef! He can help create just about any type of food menu you are looking for and will be very reasonably priced. He has a great personality as well, so I'd definitely say he's a "fun private chef" :)

AnnMarie on Crescent; 2/4/16

Money Leis
Marcella Alvarez

Marcella.alvarez@sbcglobal.net

A long time friend makes leis.  

Pete S.; 5/15/16

Gabrielle Muno

gurlzrballaz2@aol.com

I picked up the money lei from Gabby today and it’s nicely done. I was so pleased to have her recommended on the list and when I contacted her she was so easy to work with. She was quick to complete it and is willing to modify the style depending on what I wanted. I’m so happy I gave her a try.

Enjoy the graduation season,

Susan on Annapolis; 5/31/16

Party Help
Ceil Mangelli, Event Coordinator 

amemorable.event@yahoo.com, 408.356.5466, 408.623.8109

I luckily had hired 2 staff people to help out for the day, and also rented out chafing dishes last-minute (through the same company). They helped set up food, plus a ton of misc stuff.  Welcome to mention my name -- I've used Ceil for both kids 1st bday parties, and they were absolutely amazing. 

Sujata; 6/27/18

 

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Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) & Farmers Markets

Live Earth Farm CSA

1275 Green Valley Rd, Watsonville, (831) 763-2448, https://liveearthfarm.net/

They are a family run operation… networked with other organic, local providers to give you quite a variety of produce and other farm products.  Their customer service is excellent…. their food is so fresh that it lasts longer than most, and also is not picked underripe….

Carol on Curtis; 1/2/19

Farm Fresh to You

farmfreshtoyou.com

… love its flexibility.  You can choose the box size, veggie and/or fruit, identify items you never want, modify your specific order…(as long as the value doesn't fall below your minimum).  Or you can skip deliveries altogether.  And they deliver to your front door. 

Carol on Settle; 1/2/19

 

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Desserts

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Florist & Flowers

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Groceries

Arteaga's

1003 Lincoln Ave (near Coe)

Fascinating store: regular groceries & meat-counter, plus lots of more exotic and ethnic fresh produce

Larry on Willow; 3/1/18

Laredo Market

Alma and Minnesota

love this place and def want to support them to make sure they're able to make it now that Safeway's here.  I consider them a better place than Safeway for milk, eggs and bacon as they offer organic, non-nitrate offerings at a very fair price (similar to Trader Joes).  We also go there for beer- great selection, ice cream and produce as our first stop.

Jem; 11/29/16

 

[Laredo] Is so much faster than Safeway, too.  

Taffy on Marshall; 11/29/16

Sausages and Meats; Butcher:
Willow Glen Meats

885 Delmas Avenue, (408) 279-4009; willowglenmeats.com  

[recommended by]

Larry on Willow, 3/1/18

Laredo Market

Alma and Minnesota

The head butcher is Cesar, formerly of International Gourmet Foods. Cesar is highly professional, very friendly and will pretty much get you anything you want. I don't eat meat often but when I do, I'll buy it from Cesar.

Elissa on Laurie; 11/23/16

 

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Party and Event Venues & Meeting Room Rentals / Reception Spaces

Three Flames

1547 Meridian Ave, 408-269-3133

[Three Flames recommended by]

Linda on Little Orchard; 10/20/16, 11/3/16

Sherwood Inn

2988 Almaden Expressway, (408) 266-2480

[recommended by]

Linda on Little Orchard; 10/20/16, 11/3/16

San Jose Clubhouse

15480 Union Avenue, 408-831-1910, http://sanjoseclubhouse.blogspot.com/

How about the SJ Clubhouse? It's a lovely old house. Darlene Tenes (an elist member) can tell you more about it.

Tina on Monte Vista; 10/19/16

Wedding Venues
The Perry House

perryhousemonterey.com

Check out The Perry House - it's fabulous!

Linda E.; 4/27/16

Wedding Officiants

Sacred Foundations, Inc.

Spiritual Center and School of Divinity, 877-877-4275, staff@sacredfoundations.net, www.sacredfoundations.net

*self recommend* Felicia M.; 5/18/16

 

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Restaurants

American:
The Shadowbrook

1750 Wharf Road, Capitola-by-the-Sea, (831) 475-1511. http://www.shadowbrook-capitola.com

we've had a couple enjoyable Thanksgivings there (as well as birthdays and other special events). Quite elegant; good food; and a unique facility built on several stories on the side of a bluff, accessed by a cable tram car. (Kids enjoy visiting the ducks at the streamside patio...)

Larry (on Willow); 3/1/18

Café Gourmet

840 Willow St. @ Bird; http://www.cafegourmetsj.com/ 

John and his folks [at Café Gourmet] are very friendly and the food is really exceptional. Everything is very fresh and creative. It is now my favorite place for breakfast and I sometimes stop for a salad or sandwich to take to work.  Glad he's trying dinner again

Barb on Blewett; 2/13/16

 

The food and service [at Café Gourmet] were excellent and it's a very inviting little place. They have a very nice wine list. We had heard good things, so decided to try it out. They recently started serving dinner Thurs-Sun. They are open daily for breakfast and lunch, which I hear are wonderful.

Susan G.; 2/13/16https://ssl.gstatic.com/ui/v1/icons/mail/images/cleardot.gif

 

Cafe Gourmet was one of the first local restaurants we fund when relocating to Willow Glen.  John's enthusiasm and talent give the restaurant its charming stamp, both menu and ambiance….And we too love the Benedict's, CA one of our favorites.

Mary on Prevost Ct.; 2/14/16

 

I tried Cafe Gourmet for the first time a couple weeks ago. The breakfast was awesome! I had the huevos rancheros and it was delicious. I looked at what everyone else was having and it looked great too. Our server Sylvia, was very kind. Can't wait to go back! 

Linh on Glenn; 2/14/16

Black Sheep Brasserie

1202 Lincoln Ave, (408) 816-7251

Oh my GAWD the food was divine! We had the beef tartar, raw oysters, the mussels in cream sauce...so good, and the carrots in the duck fat were just amazing...good drinks  and oh yeah the  sprouts were just killer. Fine service...we will definitely go back. Make reservations.. it is a fine addition to Lincoln Ave

Donna D.; 1/23/16

Chinese:
Taiwan

1306 Lincoln Ave. near Minnesota; (408) 289-8800

An institution of Willow Glen for thirty years now.  Great food in a lively environment decorated with exotic flower arrangements.  Wonderful for birthday parties and events.

Larry (on Willow); 3/1/18

Greek
Opa's

1100 Lincoln at Willow; (408) 998-8704

[recommended by]

Larry on Willow, 3/1/18

Italian:
BIBO’S

Bird and Minnesota  

(New York pizza)  Absolutely the best!  

Stephen B.; 9/22/16

 

Again...Bibos! I love the pizza with chorizo, pineapple and jalapeños and always good craft beer on tap!

Christina on Almaden Expwy; 9/22/16

 

Bibo's on Minnesota and Bird - by the slice or whole pies.  NY-style yumminess...

Lisa on Crescent; 10/30/18

The Sicilian Pizza

1492 Almaden Rd., (408) 294-1644, http://thesicilianpizza.com

I’ve noticed the place for a while, finally went last night with my family. Good food! Quality Ravioli (homemade) and Stromboli (you can request mustard if you are a DiMaggio’s fan). Full bar, too. The spaghetti and meatballs looked great and generous. Give it a try if you are looking for some Italian comfort!

Peter N.; 9/20/17

Ristorante da Maria

2707 Union Ave., (408)371-3333, http://www.pizzadamaria.com/

I went there with a friend for lunch on Friday & we liked it too. I think it was the owner who waited on us, very nice man. Glad to know about this good place.

Maureen near Bird & Willow; 10/24/17

Willow Street Pizza

1072 Willow St., (408) 971-7080

…become a member of their "dining club". Each time we…use our card, we get a request for feedback via e-mail, and for doing so, you get $5 off your next visit. There are other perks as well, birthday coupons, etc. [The] grilled salmon we had, along with a side of green beans and corn, was excellent! a casual, good neighborhood restaurant.

Lorraine G.; 7/18/18

Fast Pizza

860 Willow St., (408) 295-1082

I second FPD on Willow at Bird.

Tina on Monte Vista; 10/30/18

Zume Pizza

www.zumepizza.com/

For a "not WG but close" pizza I recently tried Zume Pizza downtown. It was REALLY good.

[from their website: “we don’t have physical restaurants. We bake our pizzas in mobile ovens”]

Tina on Monte Vista; 10/30/18

10/30/18Japanese:
Sushi Koya

2424 Almaden Rd. (near Curtner & Almaden Expy.), 408-960-6339

We ate at Sushi Koya tonight and the sashimi was the best I've had in a looking time. High quality fish beautifully cut for perfect texture. A simple salmon handroll with wonderful texture balance and flavor. Agadashi tofu and TNT appetizers were equally delicious. The staff were very friendly and service was top notch. 

Sybl on Malone; 4/13/17

Mexican:
Aqui's

on Lincoln, near Willow

wonderful California/Mexican fusion: traditional burritos, etc., along with fresh flavors like Thai chicken or BBQ pork, ginger slaw, organic and vegetarian dishes.  Great margaritas!  Lovely patio area with heat-lamps.

Larry (on Willow); 3/1/18

Taqueria El Abuelo

1005 Lincoln (near Glen Eyrie); (408) 293-4470

small place, not fancy, open late, good food.

Larry on Willow; 3/1/18

 

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Wineries

Aver Family Vineyard

2900 Soma Way, Gilroy, 408-203-8575, www.averfamilyvineyards.com

Aver family is a small vineyard not far from Sarah’s. Also great wine, pretty property and very warm, personable owners.

Terri on Franquette; 11/7/18

Byington Vineyard & Winery

21850 Bear Creek Road, Los Gatos, 408-354-1111, https://byington.com/

I second Byington! Great wines and beautiful property. Be sure to walk up to their wedding spot. It’s long been a favorite of ours.

Terri on Franquette; 11/7/18

House Family Vineyards

13336 Old Oak Way, Saratoga, 800-975-7191, http://housefamilyvineyards.com

We are big fans of House Family Vineyards in Saratoga on a hilltop overlooking Silicon Valley.  Great wine, incredible location.

Jeff on Fairwood; 11/6/18

 

House family has a great view of the whole valley. We went on a busy day and parking was tricky. Getting to the tasting room required a fairly long but easy walk. We loved the view but thought the wines were not great.

Terri on Franquette; 11/7/18

Kissed by An Angel

1210 Mt Hermon Rd, Scotts Valley, 831-234-6253, https://www.kissedbyanangelwines.com/

We love the wines and the owners/staff. They taste at a little cafe (Heavenly Cafe) on Mt Hermon Rd. Not far from Henry Cowell State Park that has an amazing redwood grove loop. If you need lunch first there’s an Indian restaurant, Ambrosia, as you exit the freeway that serves a great Sunday buffet.

Terri on Franquette; 11/7/18

Loma Prieta Winery

26985 Loma Prieta Way, Los Gatos, 408-353-2950, https://lomaprietawinery.com/

Loma Prieta Winery also has a beautiful view. Getting there can take a bit of time. Ditto on deck if great weather.

Terri on Franquette; 11/7/18

Picchetti Winery

13100 Montebello Road, Cupertino, 408-741-1310, http://www.picchetti.com/

I recommend Picchetti in Cupertino foothills (old barn tasting room, delicious Leslie's Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, also adjacent to a trailhead if you feel like doing a hike first, roaming peacocks on the grounds).

Lisa on Crescent; 11/6/18

 

[Picchetti is] a historic winery with amazing wines and such a great story. The tasting is in a rustic, charming barn. You might see a peacock parading around the grounds from time to time. The winery is on open space land and you can hike through the hills near Stevens Creek Park and then stop in for tasting after! It’s definitely a favorite!

Terri on Franquette; 11/7/18

Regale Winery

24040 Summit Road, Los Gatos, 408-353-2500, http://www.regalewine.com/

Regale on summit has beautiful views and a stunning property as well. We enjoyed their wine too.

Terri on Franquette; 11/7/18

Ridge Vineyards

17100 Montebello Road, Cupertino, 408-867-3233, https://www.ridgewine.com/

If you want a picnic spot with a view…that is the place to go!!!  Pass right on by Picchetti Ranch and head to the ….top (aka ridge).    I think you need to call ahead to make sure you get a table.  Sounds like you are not fond of CA wines, but….this is one of the best around!

Paul on Iris Ct.; 11/7/18

Sarah’s Vineyard

4005 Hecker Pass Hwy, Gilroy, 408-847-1947, https://www.sarahsvineyard.com/

Sarah's Vineyard is a different region (Gilroy) so not mountain to ocean views but stunning at sunset. Property is adjacent to a plant nursery and is in a flat beautiful valley surrounded by hills. The drive via backroads is nice if that’s enjoyable by all. Open every day which is nice. Great wine.

Terri on Franquette; 11/7/18

Testarossa

300 College Ave., Los Gatos, 408-354-6150, http://www.testarossa.com/

I agree Testarossa is great and convenient to Willow Glen. Also, after wine tasting you can stroll through Los Gatos and get lunch/dinner at the many good restaurants.

Dan on Greencreek

dano@ssprog.com

11/6/18

 

We also love Testarossa - easy access, great Pinot Noirs, interesting piece of South Bay history

Lisa on Crescent; 11/6/18

 

Testarossa in Los Gatos is the best!

Barbara S.; 11/6/18

Windy Oaks

550 Hazel Dell Rd, Corralitos, 831-786-9463, http://windyoaksestate.com

Another favorite is Windy Oaks in Corralitos for Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.  They have a small picnic area at the top of their vineyard overlooking Monterey Bay.  Wow.

Jeff on Fairwood; 11/6/18

Wrights Station

24250 Loma Prieta Avenue, Los Gatos, 408-560-9343, http://www.wrightsstation.com/

Wright’s Station has always had a great Cabernet Sauvignon and the view is nice. No ocean views but lovely hill and forest views. Nice deck if the weather is nice.

Terri on Franquette; 11/7/18

 

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Vacation Site Hotels / Motels

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Miscellaneous

Donations

Community Outreach Ministry Endeavor

sjcome.org; back right hand corner of the parking lot at 374 S. 3rd St, at San Salvador

Clothing, food, and other necessities are given away to those in need in downtown San Jose, not sold.  Volunteer help is also needed there, especially on Tuesday mornings when the main food pick up for the week is brought in to be apportioned.

They are open Tue. and Wed. morn., and Thurs. eve., and will give a receipt for donations during those times.  There [also] is a drop off box there.  It is extraordinarily financially efficient.

Carol on Curtis; 1/16/16

Phone Donations
Next Door Solutions to Domestic Violence

234 E. Gish Rd., Ste. 200

If you have an old, working phone that has no value through …, you can donate it to Next Door Solutions to Domestic Violence. They give them to domestic-violence survivors so they can make 911 calls if needed. No service plan is needed for them to be able to do this. Drop them off at 234 E. Gish Rd., Ste. 200.

Rebecca on Newport; 3/6/17

 

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Recycling

Electronics Recycling
Hidden Willow Apts.

850 Meridian Way

If you would like you can drop them off at my job. We have a e-waste bin year round that gets picked up about every 2 months or when full. We take everything. Just go to the leasing office at 850 Meridian Way (Hidden Willows Apts).

Kari on Meridian Way; 2/1/16

Green eWaste Recycling

2127 Monterey Road, (408) 287-3292

I've used the one at 2127 Monterey Road. You just drive up and they come out to get the stuff from your car. It's way in the back of the area - just drive to the back and it's on the left.

Tina on Monte Vista; 2/1/16

 

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General information

the Victorian Preservation Association

http://vpa.org/sourcelist.html

...website has a "source list" of suppliers and services for older houses.

For example, they list a couple places in Oakland/Berkeley that have lots of old house stuff: Urban Ore General Store & Building Materials is one, Ohmega Salvage is another. Amazing places, great for finding weird old-house parts!

Larry (in one of the "older" homes on Willow); 3/1/18

Student Jobs

http://www.indeed.com/q-For-Student-l-San-Jose,-CA-jobs.html

Richard on Georgetta; 5/27/16

SJPD Crime Prevention web page

http://www.sjpd.org/BFO/Community/Crimeprev/

SJPD has a great re-designed web site.  There are videos on how to help prevent auto theft and tips on reducing home burglary. Whether to dial 911 or 311.  You’ll find updated Police Blotter, information on community services such as Neighborhood Watch, how to report a crime online and links to City Connect/ Mobile Crime Tip apps for iPhone and Android.  There is a FAQ section addressing issues with police staffing and how the department prioritizes police responses to criminal activity.  Traffic Reports, Crime maps, Gang prevention resources, The Emergency Alert system,  all well worth looking at.

Julia on Westgate; 5/29/14

Household Hazardous Waste

1608 Las Plumas Ave; (408)299-7300, http://www.sccgov.org/sites/iwm/hhw/Pages/hhw.aspx

Very easy:  make an appointment with Household Hazardous Waste then drive over and drop it off. Very nice facilities just off McKee at 101. Open Fridays and Saturdays. They take paint, fire extinguishers, propane tanks, insecticides, asbestos (check for their rules), half-empty spray cans, etc. It took us maybe a minute to dispose of trunk-full of all that.

Larry on Willow; 3/1/18

Disposal of Unneeded or Expired Medications

·         Central Mental Health (Enborg Lane Pharmacy)

2221 Enborg Lane, (Cross street- Bascom Ave)

Located on right-hand side of the Bldg, across from receptionist. M-F 8:00am–5:00pm

 

·         Office of the Sheriff

55 West Younger Avenue (Cross street- N. 1st Street), (800) 211-2220/ (408) 808-4405

Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

 

·         Valley Health Center at Bascom Pharmacy

750 S. Bascom Avenue, Ste # 120, (Cross street- Renova Dr.), M–F 9:00am-7:00pm

 

·         Valley Health Center at East Valley Pharmacy

Located near the pharmacy pick-up window, 1993 McKee Rd. (Cross street- Ludlow Way)

M-F 8:30am-9:30pm, Sat-Sun 8:30am-5:00pm

 

·         Valley Health Center at Lenzen Pharmacy

Located near the pharmacy, 976 Lenzen Avenue, Ste 1400 (Cross street-The Alameda)

M 8:00am-9:00pm, T-F 8:00am-5:30pm

 

·         Valley Health Center at Moorpark Pharmacy

Located near the pharmacy, 2400 Moorpark Avenue, (Cross street- Bascom Ave)

M-F 9:00am–9:00pm, Sat–Sun 9:00am–9:00pm

 

·         Valley Health Center at Tully Pharmacy

Located in the main lobby, near the security guard desk, 500 Tully Rd. (Cross street-Corde Terra Circle) M- F 8:30am- 9:00pm, Sat 8:30am-5:00 pm

 

·         Valley Specialty Center Outpatient Pharmacy

Located in the Valley Specialty Bldg, near the pharmacy, 751 S. Bascom Avenue, (Cross Street-Renova Dr.), Mon- Sun 9:00 am-10:00 pm

Kari on Meridian Way; 8/14/15

Contractors

How to check contractor, real estate, and insurance licenses:

Contractors -- including painting, remodeling, fences, and yard work: http://www.cslb.ca.gov

 

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© Lawrence Ames, www.WGBackfence.net website owner, 2019