The Tech needs help
The Tech Interactive is calling for adult volunteers to help run the museum’s hands-on exhibits and programs. Volunteers receive perks including free admission, free parking in downtown San Jose and discounts at the in-house store and cafe. The positions require one or two orientation sessions for all interested adults. For more information and to apply, email volunteer@thetech.org.
Open Space training
The Open Space Authority is hosting a volunteer training Saturday, Feb. 1, for any South Bay residents who want to devote some time to the local environment this year. The training will take new and existing volunteers through the various volunteer roles, including community outreach, trail patrol and preserve stewards. The training will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the organization’s administrative office, 33 Las Colinas Lane.
State of manufacturing
On Feb. 6, Manufacture San Jose will host its first annual “State of Local Manufacturing” breakfast, where leaders from the local industry will present information on San Jose’s large industrial sector and talk about how to engage the other facets of the local economy. The breakfast is set for 7:30-10 a.m. at the Westin San Jose, 302 S. Market St. Tickets can be purchased at tinyurl.com/ManufactureSJ.
Lunar New Year
This weekend, ring in the Lunar New Year at Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose. The museum will have special programming from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, with traditional games and dances from a variety of Asian cultures.
Grants for green spaces
Earlier this month, the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority received more than $1.7 million in funding from Priority Conservation Area grants. The funds include $400,000 to allow public access and protect natural habitats at Coyote Ridge, a $379,394 grant to restore the South Pajaro River Agricultural Preserve—which will protect habitats for rare birds and butterfly species and allow farmers to utilize the land—and an additional $1 million for future land acquisition.
Neighborhood Notes
ALMADEN VALLEY>>San Jose has reached an agreement with the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, allowing the city to develop a property between Almaden Lake and Guadalupe Creek. The property, known as Sycamore Terrace, is located at Almaden Expressway and Coleman Road. While no official plans have been approved, city and county officials plan to develop recreational and habitat restoration programs on the land. The area will remain a protected open space.