The following organizations and individuals deserve either
CHEERS or JEERS this week:
The following organizations and individuals deserve either CHEERS or JEERS this week:
CHEERS: For Gilroy residents who are creatively trying to help victims of Hurricane Katrina. St. Mary student Emily Wood and retired firefighter Russell Hayden exemplify the spirit of giving to those in need.
Wood is collecting stuffed animals for displaced children while Hayden is filling a need for new undergarments. To help their efforts – and others being run by Gilroy organizations – see Friday’s Dispatch or go to www.gilroydispatch.com for the complete local list.
CHEERS: For the great start to the 2005 Renaissance Faire. The bawdy, vivacious and delicious faire will be held at Casa de Fruta off Highway 152 east of Gilroy every weekend until Oct. 15, when participants will celebrate Oktoberfest.
JEERS: For the City of Morgan Hill, which for years turned a blind eye to John Fry’s golf course development, despite complaints from neighbors and environmental groups. The city should have ordered the golf course out of its Williamson Act farmland conservation contract years ago. Now, stuck between a rock and a $460,000 fine, Fry will either have to pay up or wait 10 years to develop his planned world-class mathematics institute.
CHEERS: For the imminent opening of Chips N’ Salsa, the new restaurant that will soon be occupying Old City Hall. Owner Jim Angelopoulos has overcome months of delays and says the restaurant will be open by November.
JEERS: For the lost feeling of security on the beloved Gilroy Levee. A man attacked two women this week, attempting to pull them off the levee. Thankfully, they were able to fend him off and call for help.
CHEERS: For the Gilroy Police Department for its prompt response to the attacks and the subsequent patrolling by bicycle and marked police car. An increased presence around the levee and at Christmas Hill Park is warranted and appreciated by the residents who want to feel safe while using the recreational trail and park facilities.
CHEERS: For the increased awareness that Hurricane Katrina has created. A new Web site – www.72hours.org – includes lists of everything residents would need to survive for three days in the event of a severe earthquake or other natural disaster. Check it out.
JEERS: For the Gilroy City Council which initially approved a Miller Avenue development plan that would combine lots and build six new homes changing the neighborhood’s character. Rescind it.
