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In the Spotlight

Helen Chapman fights to save San Jose’s open space

Helen Chapman fights to save San Jose’s open space

Growing up, Helen Chapman was surrounded by acres of nature in Orinda. That’s when her passion for preserving open space began. And now, as the chair of the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, Chapman is its steward and Coyote Valley is her crown jewel. Being in harmony with the land is in her blood. Chapman’s German father and English mother grew up on farms and lived off the land. As a teenager, she found solace jumping a fence and going for a walk. She finds that same comfort in Coyote Valley. “I come out here and see the land...

Featured Column

Shaw: The homelessness problem needs more than a temporary solution

Shaw: The homelessness problem needs more than a temporary solution

It still feels like we’re kicking the can down the road when it comes to the homelessness problem. Or at least it feels like we’re trying to place bandages over a gaping wound. There has been progress toward acknowledging the problem and presenting solutions over the past several years, which is a huge improvement. The tiny home trend continues, along with Project Homekey programs. But these are quick-build and renovation solutions for interim housing, when permanent housing is needed. Residents will continue to oppose any type of homeless housing in their communities, whether interim or permanent, with the usual complaints...