Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage is trying to make the holiday season a little warmer for low-income people and it's asking Willow Glen residents to pitch in.

Until Dec. 17, offices in the Silicon Valley will be collecting new and gently used clothing, blankets and towels for the annual Operation: One Warm Coat drive. All donations collected by participating offices will be sent to the Emergency Housing Consortium LifeBuilders of San Jose and other nonprofits and shelters.

Operation: One Warm coat was initiated by a San Francisco resident who wished to donate her coat to someone in need. The organization has expanded to help individuals, groups, companies and organizations across the country collect coats and distribute them at no cost to people who need them. For more information, call 925.275.3085 or visit www.CaliforniaMoves.com.

--Megahn O'Hare

City recognizes Ames
for his years of service

The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors commended Willow Glen resident Larry Ames for his contributions to the city as a neighborhood advocate and county parks and recreation commissioner.

Ames, a 25-year Willow Glen resident, completed his final term as a commissioner this November, having served nearly a decade with the seven-member commission. The board of supervisors unanimously passed the resolution thanking Ames on Nov. 23.

Over the years, Ames has advocated for a countywide trail system and pushed for the joint county and city purchase of the Willow Glen Spur Trail. Ames has also supported a swimming lagoon at one of the county's parks, a proposal which is under review by the county.

In Willow Glen, Ames has served in numerous positions with the Willow Glen Neighborhood Association, and continues to advocate for the Willow Glen area and the city of San Jose.

--Alicia Upano

Seniors get computer
savvy at SeniorNet

For seniors looking to catch up to the digital age, the Willows Seniors Center offers a handful of computer classes beginning in January 2005.

Best of the Internet, introduces students to email, searching, hunting for bargains and publishing their own website. Fun with Google, will help students focus on the services offered by Google.com including searching, shopping, local listings and email.

There are approximately 15 classes being offered that are eight weeks long, and meet weekly in two hour sessions.

Seniornet, an international nonprofit providing computer education to people over 50, cost $40 to join. All classes are $20. Registration begins on Dec. 18 at 9 a.m. at the Willows Senior Center, 2175 Lincoln Ave. For more information on classes call 408.448.6400.

--Alicia Upano