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Finance
DIY home inspo for fall
Presented by Unison
Let’s talk renovations (and how to get the dough to make them happen). | Photo via Pexels
Fall is in the air, and we’re feeling revived. Anyone else? If cooler temps (and hot coffee) have you ready to get creative and start a project or two, you’re not alone.
Whether you want to go big and increase your home’s value or just spruce things up before the holidays, it’s a great time to get started.
Starting small
From switching out light bulbs to replacing your cabinet knobs + drawer pulls, you can boost comfort and value without breaking the bank. Here are 10 low-lift, high-impact ideas, all under $100.
Getting cooking
When you think about home renovations, which room comes to mind first? For many, it’s the kitchen, and for good reason — upgrades can go a long way, both for your own enjoyment and your home’s selling potential.
Hungry for inspo? The National Kitchen & Bath Association’s annual Kitchen Design Trends report is a great resource. Here’s what’s in for 2025:
Statement colors for backsplashes, islands, cabinets, and walls
Biophilic design, aka bringing the outdoors in (think: large windows for natural light + herb gardens)
Multifunctional appliances and mood lighting
Making it happen
Considering major renovations? Even if you plan to DIY, the costs can add up. Luckily, there are options out there, like HELOCs (Home Equity Lines of Credit) and Equity Sharing Home Loans.
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Developer Robson Homes bought the site of the shuttered Olivera Egg Ranch for $12 million with plans to build a 25-unit housing development. The third-generation, family-owned ranch closed earlier this year. It will forever be remembered for its drive-thru used by loyal customers picking up fresh eggs. (The Mercury News)
Open
Bibo’s Pizza & Pasta debuted its newest location last weekend on Santa Teresa Boulevard. The eatery offers the brand’s popular pies, plus calzones, wings, beer, wine, and pasta — we hear the Tartufo is a must-try.
Watch
San Jose resident and professional pumpkin carver Paulina Goff Stovall is competing on Food Network’s latest season of “Halloween Wars,” airing Sundays at 6 p.m. The TV show features teams of carvers, cake decorators, and sugar artists tasked with creating elaborate edible displays; Stovall is on “Team Poisonous Perfection.” (The Mercury News)
State
California’s Clean Air Vehicle decal program, which gives electric vehicle drivers access to carpool lanes even if they’re driving solo, expires on Tuesday, Sept. 30. Starting Wednesday, Oct. 1, California Highway Patrol can issue tickets to EVs using the lanes without at least two occupants. (The Mercury News)
Concert
Grammy-winning singer Ed Sheeran will bring his 2026 North American “LOOP Tour” to 22 cities, including Santa Clara. The “Perfect” and “Photograph” crooner will headline Levi’s Stadium on July 25, 2026. General public tickets go on sale tomorrow at 10 a.m. (Deadline)
Tech
The city’s IT Department launched the IT Innovation Hub, a year-round portal where tech companies + entrepreneurs can pitch solutions (think: hybrid services, AI, cybersecurity tools) to make local government more efficient. The department will review proposals monthly and invite select companies to present their ideas virtually.
Sports
The Bay Area Panthers announced the team is taking a “pause” for the 2026 Indoor Football League season, citing financial challenges. The Panthers hope to brainstorm a “renewed strategy” that will help them return stronger in the future.
Outdoors
Shutterbugs, this one’s for you. California State Parks is hosting a photo contest inviting Californians to submit pics showcasing the state’s natural beauty through Thursday, Oct. 9. Photos must be from this year and taken in one of the 280 state parks; public voting starts Monday, Nov. 3.
Whether you’re a small business looking to grow your team or a large company filling a key role, SJtoday Job Board can connect you with engaged, qualified locals who are ready to work. Post your open roles for free + watch the applications roll in.
Seasonal
With autumn comes crowd-favorite fall festivals + so much live music (we’re ready to jam out at the SoFa Street Fair this weekend). Luckily, these hearing aids are the world’s first with multi-stream processing, designed to help you engage in conversations effortlessly (even in noisy environments).*
Edu
Discover your creative potential with Inward & Artward School of Creativity’s online classes this fall. Engage in courses like Creativity & Personal Mythology and Writers Accountability Groups to build resilience and sustain inspiration. Plus, apply for the 2026 hybrid Creative Facilitator Training for a unique learning journey. Enroll.*
With California still experiencing record-breaking heat waves, the last thing you need is a $10,000 HVAC repair bill (no, we didn’t accidentally add an extra zero there). Luckily, this leading company is offering 50% off select plans — get your free quote. See disclaimers forimportant consumer information.*
Sunday, Oct. 5 | Little Italy
Expect Italian food vendors, an arts + crafts village, and one of the largest Italian car shows in the US — think: Lamborghinis and Ferraris.
Thursday, Oct. 9-Sunday, Oct. 12 | Locations vary Lights. Camera. Action. Explore Africa through the lenses of the continent’s veteran and emerging filmmakers.
Saturday, Oct. 11 | Discovery Meadow
This free fall celebration also highlights Guadalupe River Park as one of our region’s important natural resources.
Saturday, Oct. 18 + Sunday, Oct. 19 | Downtown Campbell Prost! The 30th annual shindig will showcase 150+ arts and crafts vendors, German beers, food, stein-holding competitions, and live music from the Zicke-Zacke Band. Pro tip:Pre-purchase drink tickets so you spend less time in line.
A HEPA air purifier that’s 60% off for a limited time. We love that style is not compromised for function — it features a sleek exterior + eliminates 99.97% of air particles so you can have an odor and dust-free environment.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
The latest social media trend — “unfortunately, I do love…” — is all about embracing guilty pleasures, so let’s give it a whirl. San Jose style, of course. Unfortunately, I do love…
Splurging on a $7.50 Espresso Banana Cream Latte from Academic Coffee.
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