What makes this place so special?

And yet, it has been said that we have much more in common than we have differences. I find that to be largely true and if people can focus on listening rather than being heard, much can be gained. And one thing we all have in common here is the people and our places.

So with that in mind, I ask you, our readers, to give us some ideas on two topics — favorite places and everyday heroes. I say everyday heroes because it’s a way to refine it into one category rather than just people. Everyday people might be interesting because I firmly believe everyone has a unique and interesting story to tell, but it might be a bit random. By highlighting heroes, there is a focus. However, it doesn’t have to be hero in the traditional sense. Often we think of first responders or, lately, the military. That thinking is entirely justified. But it can be more. A teacher, a friendly coffee shop worker, someone who works behind the scenes not for recognition, but to make a difference. Someone who goes above and beyond. The Peninsula is filled with these people and we at the Daily Journal give them the attention they deserve when we can. After all, we are always thrilled to share our community triumphs. But there are always others. One of the pieces of our mission statement is that our pages belong to you, our readers, and we choose to reflect the diverse character of this dynamic and ever-changing community. So let us know who deserves a little attention. They may not seek it out, but the attention can provide inspiration to others.

The other topic, favorite places, might be easier. I have my own. The history museum in Redwood City. Town in San Carlos. Iron Gate in Belmont. Talbot’s Toyland in San Mateo. The levee in Foster City. Washington Park in Burlingame. O Sole Mio in Millbrae. Golden Gate National Cemetery in San Bruno. Orange Park in South San Francisco. Original Joe’s Westlake in Daly City. Linda Mar Beach in Pacifica. Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay. Duarte’s Tavern in Pescadero. This is not a complete list, but a sampling. There are open spaces, parks, funky neighborhoods, restaurants, pubs, bars, eateries, joints and others galore. San Mateo’s Central Park with Leon the Giraffe, the Japanese Garden and the train, Myung Dong Tofu Cabin, Jack’s of all kinds in San Bruno, Burlingame and San Mateo, the Ravioli House, the meat counter at Draeger’s, Fuji Sukiyaki on Third, hiking trails like Sawyer Camp, Edgewood Park or Mills Canyon, Copenhagen, Filoli, murals, coffee shops, libraries, quiet places, noisy places. ... I could go on and on. Too many to mention and I know I’ll think of more must-have mentions after this is printed.

I think we can all agree Talbot’s is the quintessential example of a special San Mateo place. When we wrote a story this summer about its 65th anniversary, many shared what made it so great. It’s entrenched in our childhood, it is thoughtfully stocked, it has friendly and helpful service, it’s community-minded, it’s local through and through and provides that little extra something — free gift wrapping. Not that this would ever happen, but if Talbot’s were to close, we might as well shut down San Mateo, because we would have lost.

So what are your favorite places? What deserves a little extra attention from us? What or who would you like to know more about? Send it our way and we will consider exploring it. With everyday heroes, try to provide some context and contact information. In doing so, we can help share a little with others what makes this area so special not just to you and me, but to everyone.

Now, isn’t that the point of a community?

Jon Mays is the editor in chief of the Daily Journal. He can be reached at jon@smdailyjournal.com. Follow Jon on Twitter @jonmays.