Break out the staple gun, holiday twinkle lights and decorative displays because the Holiday Home Decorating contest is coming to Willow Glen.

On the nights of Dec. 16 and 17, residents interested in participating in the contest are asked to leave their lights on from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The holiday decorating will be evaluated based on aesthetics and creativity, not necessarily on the largest quantity of lights. Local real estate company Beyond Homes sponsors the contest. Several members of the company will judge the participants' homes. There will be several awards, including a grand prize of $100.

"Willow Glen has always had a place in our hearts, and now that our office is completing its first year here, we just wanted to celebrate with a festive contest," Beyond Homes co-owner Joanne Conca says.

All entries must be received by Dec. 15.

Those interested in participating can visit www.BeyondHomes.com and click on "Willow Glen Decorating Contest" to complete an entry form. They can also mail forms to Beyond Homes at 838 Minnesota Ave., San Jose, CA 95125 or drop them off at that location.

More information can also be obtained via e-mail at office@beyondhomes.com or by contacting Joanne Conca at 408. 271.9060, ext. 101.

Starbucks asks public to help sick children

The holidays can turn brighter for seriously ill hospitalized children by individuals participating in Starbucks' Holiday Angels Toy Drive.

Starbucks on Lincoln Avenue in Willow Glen is one of the locations where people can drop off a new unwrapped gift and help spread some joy during the holiday season.

Holiday Angels "giving" trees adorned with gift tags printed with toy suggestions will be on display at Starbucks. Suggested gifts include not only toys for individual children, but also videos and video game cartridges for use in hospitals.

The drive continues until Dec. 25, when toys will be distributed to local community hospitals

For more information, contact Anne-Marie Devine at 415.974.7285 or email her at adevine@gcigroup.com.