From the Editor
4 South Bay Accent
OPENING LINES
SOUTH BAY ACCENT
MORE THA3N 5YEARS
OF EDITORIAL
EXCELLENCE
Founder/Publisher
Sherran Lacey
Senior Editor
Donna Krey
Creative Director
Greg Silva
Contributing Editors
Carole Barrow
Stephen Yafa
Travel Editor
Ludmilla Alexander
Contributing Art Director
Jeffrey Nemeroff
Calendar Editor
Carole Barrow
Executive Assistant
Lisa Marke
Contributing Writers
Lou Fancher
Susan Hathaway
Kathy Chin Leong
Pam Marino
Contributing Photographer
Chris Schmauch
Proofreader
Anne Gelhaus
Advertising
Mitch La Crosse
Accounting Manager
Ruchi Gowda
Distribution Manager
Werner Medina
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SOUTH BAY ACCENT, 2018, Volume 40, Number 4,
is published by Sher Publications, Inc. 950 Bascom
Ave., San Jose, CA 95128. 408/244-5100. Sherran
Lacey, President. Entire contents copyright SOUTH
BAY ACCENT Magazine 2018©, by Sherr Publications,
Inc., all rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A. Nothing may
be reproduced in whole or part without written permission
from the publisher.
The magazine assumes no
responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts.
T he new year is well underway and the season’s cold, gray days
are numbered. In this issue, we invite you to kiss the gloom
goodbye, revive listless spirits and greet winter’s last gasp
with aplomb.
Where to start? Turn to writer Carole Barrow’s feature,
“Boost Your Mood,” offering a host of bright suggestions, both entertaining
and helpful, for banishing the blahs. Whether it’s petting a puppy, humming
a catchy tune or snagging an extra hour of sleep, you’ll be surprised
at how one simple habit can lead to a happier outlook and a greater sense
of well-being.
And if winter insists on wearing out its welcome, there’s an easy antidote:
Escape to sunnier climes. In “Palm Springs Confidential,” writer Kathy
Chin Leong proposes a romantic getaway to the California desert towns of
Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs. Bask in the mild temperatures, luxury
resorts and glorious scenery—and remember to check out the bounty of fun
and interesting local activities, as well as some terrific dining experiences.
South Bay residents love to eat out, and with that in mind, we’re always
pleased to showcase the culinary range of our comprehensive Semiannual
Dining Guide with 200 Dining Hot Spots. Longtime readers know this is
a great resource, full of exciting new places and popular standbys—a handy
selection of area restaurants to suit every appetite and budget.
Still on the subject of fine food, don’t miss “Beyond Sushi” by writer
Susan Hathaway. This is a fascinating look at the current state of Japanese
cuisine in the region, a well-informed review of delicious dishes representing
the highest, most elegant form of Japanese dining, to the most casual.
Also highlighted in this issue is another topic of special interest—education.
In “Schools Make Places for Makerspaces,” writer Lou Fancher
explores the way some local private schools have embraced the nation’s
widespread Makers Movement, transforming empty classrooms into studios
and labs designed to fire up the ingenuity and creativity of students. It’s an
intriguing glimpse into how collaborative, hands-on work can result in an
innovative approach to learning.
The story provides a fitting lead-in for Learning to Excel, our well-regarded
semiannual guide to the area’s highest-rated private schools. Also included
is another special section Camp Central 2018, a must-have reference for
parents anticipating the long days of summer ahead.
As always, in this issue you’ll find the usual favorites: Calendar, chockfull
of 150 ways to make the most of every day for the next two months;
Spotlight, a visual parade of unique and enchanting products; and Style,
where “Desert Glam” fashions inspire a flair for travel.
Our vibrant and diverse Bay Area offers tons of fun and satisfying ways
to wait out wintertime, though usually, we’re spared from the worst of the
season’s icy hardships. Still, if winter seems to be deliberately dragging its
feet, it’s always nice to remember that spring is right on its heels.
Donna Krey
Senior Editor