The voting period over the course of four weeks brought in more ballots than previous years, which goes to show how Willow Glen residents continue to support their community. This little corner of San Jose has a rich and interesting history that's worth exploring for new residents as well as being rediscovered by those who have lived here many years. We hope this edition inspires our readers to take a stroll down the Avenue or discover their own personal "Best of Willow Glen" delights.

We changed a few of the categories this year to spice up the competition. And we added some new categories, such as "Best place for a first date," "Best youth coach" and "Best community event."

While many of the same winners hung onto their titles, rivalry was fierce in a few categories. Some long-standing businesses and newcomers managed to beat out or tie with past winners.

Willow Glen resident Carol Hack is this year's recipient of our $100 cash drawing. Carol should contact our promotions manager Jennifer Anderson at 408.200.1030 or email janderson@community-newspapers.com to redeem her prize. Thanks for voting, Carol!

We'd also like to once again thank the Willow Glen community for its favorite picks and the time residents took to vote. We enjoyed meeting our readers at the farmers market as they voted and opening the ballots that were mailed and emailed in daily.

We couldn't have done it without you.

CONTRIBUTORS

Project Director: Lisa Sibley

Graphic Designer: Karen Taylor

Online Production: Stephanie R. Woehrmann

Copy Editor: Roberta Alexander

Proofreader: Jill Osofsky

Writers: Anne Ward Ernst, Mayra Flores De Marcotte, Jennifer McBride and Jennifer McLain

Photographers: Rob Meggers, Vicki Thompson and Carien Veldpape