I'm with Jim Cosgrove on this one. (See input from March 30)
Let's think BIG, if we say we are really willing struggle for appropriate and meaningful improvement of our "Community Gateway." We as a community could definitely use a more attractive, pedestrian-oriented space in which to stroll, shop, meet, etc. creating the focal point that "main streets" or "high streets" everywhere have done. (Any urban planners out there?) As much as I love the Santa Teresa neighborhood now, we moved here from Willow Glen, and there are definitely several of these aspects which I still miss. I LOVE Santa Teresa's nearby hills, the pool club, schools, library, etc, but let me be frank in suggesting that there are several real REASONS we couldn't afford to buy a home in our old Willow Glen neighborhood as easily as in this one. Location, location, location...

While we're bothering at all, let's create the "location" we deserve! And no better time then the present! I would definitely welcome Trader Joe's as the "magnet." It WOULD draw, guaranteed, with its rare combination of high class, healthy, fun, alternative AND affordable variety. I could easily handle a Whole Foods, too, though I'm guessing its universal appeal might be less than that of TJs.

Good strong thoughts,
Lisa Benham