Spoking My Mind: Camping fun at the next level
I’m sitting at my laptop, basking in the memories of last week’s camping trip to the Sierras. My camping trips actually began when I was still in diapers; after that, yearly camp adventures were part of my life. But, that magic age came for...
Guest View: While US economic outlook improves, California’s remains muddy
Late last month, the Federal Reserve announced the latest incremental raise in its key interest rate, pushing it to the highest level in 22 years, as it continues to battle what it calls persistent inflation.
The increase, a quarter of 1%, renewed the debate among...
Guest View: The heartwarming return of O.D.’s in Gilroy
In the heart of Gilroy, a culinary gem has stood the test of time, serving as a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike. For 35 years, Mike and Rocio's family-owned restaurant, O.D.’s Kitchen, has been an integral part of the community, and...
Guest View, Mark Turner: Thank you, Chief Scot Smithee
By Mark Turner
To Chief Scot Smithee, thank you for a job well done.
I can’t imagine it’s an easy job being a cop. There are a lot of challenges that go along with being a member of law enforcement, especially these days. While the cop...
Guest View, Dion Bracco and Carol Marques: Addressing homelessness
There was an opinion piece in the March 19 Dispatch that led the reader to believe that the Gilroy City Council is ignoring a plan that could end homelessness. That is a misleading statement.
What the opinion leaves out is that the Gilroy City Council...
Guest View: Valley Water to discuss upcoming construction at Anderson Dam
In June, Valley Water will start building a 1,700-foot long tunnel next to Anderson Dam that will allow us to release more water safely during major storms or emergencies. This work is a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen Anderson Dam and protect...
SVCT’s ‘Percy Jackson Musical’ features youth cast and crew
South Valley Civic Theatre’s upcoming production, “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical,” is making its way to the stage Feb. 23 at the Morgan Hill Community Playhouse.
The show is based on the popular book “The Lightning Thief” by author Rick Riordan, which was...
Mayor Marie Blankley: A look into 2023
And just like that, it’s 2023! Halfway through my first mayoral term, it is my pleasure to share with you all that we’ve accomplished despite the setbacks of Covid, and what we have to look forward to.
In 2022 we began a five-year street maintenance...
Guest View: Democrats keep spending money but fail to make sure it’s helping
Steve Glazer is a former political consultant who served as mayor of Orinda before being elected to the state Senate in a 2015 special election.
Glazer is a Democrat who usually votes with others in the party’s overwhelming Senate majority. However, Glazer has a rare...
Guest View, Fred Tovar: Saluting the pillars of Gilroy
As we bid farewell to 2023, I, Fred M. Tovar, a proud member of the Gilroy City Council, would like to take a moment to extend profound gratitude to the unsung heroes who relentlessly contribute to the well-being and vitality of our community—the dedicated...






















