Happy Dog has accepted a penalty and we’re looking forward to a
remodel and a retooled menu at the historic restaurant
The following organizations and individuals deserve either CHEERS or JEERS this week:
CHEERS: For Happy Dog Pizza owner Steve Gearing, who has pledged a gear switch in the business approach to the downtown eatery located in the historic old firehouse, Station 55. Happy Dog’s reputation as a family friendly restaurant was damaged when three Alcoholic Beverage Control agents were beaten at the restaurant in February. Wednesday, Gearing accepted a 30-day no-alcohol penalty and said he would manage the penalty by having it coincide with a major remodel that will shut down the bar’s kitchen and second floor to minimize losses. More importantly, Gearing said the revamped restaurant will go back to the family-friendly basics with a retooled menu and a relaxed atmosphere. “We’re a family restaurant,” said Gearing. “I’m leaving the rest to the bars.” Good news.
CHEERS: For all the hair stylists involved in the cut-a-thon Sunday to benefit the family of Julio Gonzalez, the young victim of a tragic accident. Lacertian Santana, one of the organizers, said “We’re just hair dressers whose hearts are broken.” The event raised $3,500 in five hours and the Gavilan College Cosmetology Department chipped in with pre-cut shampoo duties. Hair dressers with hearts had a great idea to help out a grieving family. Thank you for being a part of Gilroy.
JEERS: For the fire which destroyed the Moon family home on Thanksgiving eve. Hopefully, the good acts of family and friends will ease the pain of the loss. It’s the right time to remind everyone about fire safety with regard to Christmas lights, wood stoves and fireplaces. Be extra careful and diligent.
CHEERS: For everyone who shops local, and understands that a dollar spent in Gilroy is a dollar that supports the community. When in doubt, shop in town.
JEERS: For the lack of resolution to the cracked sidewalks in Gilroy. The latest recommendations – a slow 25-year crawl toward fixing the buckled concrete that plagues so many of our sidewalks – is hardly an acceptable solution.
JEERS: For the mess enveloping Rebekah Children’s Home. As attorneys and employees reveal details, it seems that this messy situation will not be resolved quickly. Too bad.
CHEERS: For the planned downtown Christmas bash on Saturday evening. It’s always a nice community event, but this year, with the new-look downtown for a background, the plans are bigger and better. At 5pm there’s a holiday parade and Santa will light the tree at Fifth and Monterey at 6pm while our Suzuki Youth Violinists play background music. Bundle up, grab some hot chocolate or coffee at Sue’s, and join in the fun.
