Opinion

By Victor Gomez In my 17 years as a central coast franchise owner, I was always grateful for my community and the passion they had for supporting local family-owned businesses. Locally owned businesses, whether franchises or independent, are the backbone of our local and statewide...

By Carol Marques I was disappointed last week when I read a letter to the editor in the Dispatch which reinforced the negativity that is trending right now. The writer’s perceptions of the City of Gilroy lack the facts. Much of what he is concerned...

In the 2016 general election, Roland Velasco was elected mayor with two years remaining on his council seat. His seat as a council member was vacated and needed to be filled. The need to fill that seat was known on the night of the...

I hope that you and your families are safe and healthy during this pandemic. These are truly unprecedented times and while the majority of residents are not infected, we are all affected. My staff and I compiled some resources for Santa Clara County residents...

By John Varela Early next month, Valley Water will take a significant step toward fixing Anderson Dam so it can safely withstand a large earthquake.  The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ordered Valley Water to begin lowering water levels in Anderson Reservoir starting Oct. 1. This effort...

I am 19 and this is my first time being included in the voting process. Voting is something we are lucky enough to have the privilege to do, and we need to make sure that we are taking full advantage of these opportunities. Voting...

Regarding the nazi flag on Burnett overpass on Highway 101 in Morgan Hill: I’m writing to you because the group of people who have their rallies on Fridays on the Burnett Bridge overpass on 101 in Morgan Hill had a nazi flag hanging on...

A few years ago, I read that all major religions have characteristics of the Golden Rule in their beliefs. I don’t remember where I read this, but the knowledge stuck with me. The Golden Rule says something like, “treat others as you would want...

I awoke Sunday morning in Gilroy to the glowing, rose-colored sun (unfortunately from fires burning to the north), varying sounds of chimes blowing in the wind, happily chirping birds sitting in swaying trees and the rumbling vibrations of generators providing electricity—because as of 9pm...

By John Goldstein We don’t have a “rogue cop” problem in America. Let’s be clear on that. It was caught on video. That’s why it became of national interest.   Mr. Jacob Blake was shot seven times in the back as he went to get into his...