Everyone talks about saving agriculture, but the truth is that
talk is cheap and the words often are not aligned with actions
The following organizations and individuals deserve either CHEERS or JEERS this week:
JEERS: For assault on our local farmers. It’s a trifecta of trouble lately. Gas prices are through the roof. Agriculture-related crime is skyrocketing. Overzealous “greenies” are trying to land a petition on the ballot to further restrict land use. It’s a tough road to hoe anyway, and the latest developments are really putting a damper on the business. Throw in incessant water rate hikes by the Santa Clara Valley Water District, unfounded cries of perchlorate contamination attributed to mushroom farmers and lack of a bona fide guest worker program, and it’s no wonder local farmer frustration levels are probably at an all-time high.
CHEERS: For the San Jose Sharks – hey! The Tank is rocking with playoff madness, and it’s been great watching a professional organization in the Bay Area make the right moves to build a real team that plays together.
CHEERS: For the California State High School exit exam. Having this test in place – and sticking with it as a benchmark for earning a diploma – has put pressure on our public schools to examine weaknesses and work toward improvement. The passage rate for Gilroy High School sophomores (72 percent math, 81 percent English) has increased slightly over the past few years, but the CAHSEE is a basic-skills test that nearly all high school sophomores should pass. So, there’s work to do – especially at the middle school level.
CHEERS: For the new addition to the Gilroy Police Department force, “Gus,” a 95-pound German shepherd and partner with Officer Joseph Deras. Police dogs are incredibly valuable additions to the force. First, there’s the intimidation factor. Second, there’s the capability to chase down a fleeing suspect. Drug sniffing and service as a community liaison of sorts are added bonuses. Welcome and best of luck to “Gus” and his Officer Deras.
JEERS: For the continued delays with regards to finishing construction on Santa Teresa Boulevard. The city and Granite Construction Company need to iron out the dispute before the summer slips by. Residents have endured enough traffic mess on this major thoroughfare, and both Granite and the city should recognize this fact. Straighten it out, fix the road and let’s get this nightmare project behind us. If there’s no resolution quickly, then settle it in court.
JEERS: For gas prices. Unbelievable rise for no apparent reason save the psychology of the market. Government energy policies have been an abysmal failure. America’s dependence on foreign oil must be severely curtailed.
