Dear Editor,
I write regarding the dismaying attitude expressed by columnist
Denise Apuzzo.
Ms. Apuzzo is
”
saddened by the closing of Wize Owl Bookstore.
”
Perhaps there was some kind of metamorphosis when the Wize Owl
moved from the antiseptic, northwest part of town to Monterey
Street.
Dear Editor,
I write regarding the dismaying attitude expressed by columnist Denise Apuzzo.
Ms. Apuzzo is “saddened by the closing of Wize Owl Bookstore.” Perhaps there was some kind of metamorphosis when the Wize Owl moved from the antiseptic, northwest part of town to Monterey Street. Was the Wize Owl selling different books after its relocation? Or is it just that Ms. Apuzzo’s view of downtown, like that of many newcomers, is that it is overrun with bums and criminals, the kind of place nice people avoid? I’m sure that the Wize Owl ownership was comforted by Ms. Apuzzo’s pleasure with Barnes and Noble.
The promise of better times a-comin’ for the downtown is a repetitive refrain, which has been sung for more than 10 years. I stopped listening a long time ago. It is the product that brings customers to a business. That, and the level of professionalism with which that product is presented and sold.
To say, “Downtown will need and be able to sustain a bookstore in another two or three years, but we aren’t there yet,” is just a way to avoid saying “Downtown is dusty and old and there are newer, more sterile buildings where I can shop for the same stuff.” In the last quarter century, three bookstores have come and gone in the downtown.
If Ms. Apuzzo resides along the U.S. 101 freeway, getting to the old Wize Owl was quite a drive. If she lives in the northwest quadrant, getting to Barnes and Noble forces her to cross Monterey Street somewhere … maybe even at Sixth Street. Convenience is relative.
Our current mayor is intensely interested in improving the downtown ambience. The streetscape facelift now underway will improve outward appearance, but it is ultimately the individual businesses that are responsible for the character of the downtown. Cute streetlights, and seasonal flowers can’t hide cheap signs and sidewalk clutter.
In my business, I’ve done my best to create a clean and orderly environment inside the building, where I have control. I endeavor to fulfill my clients’ needs in a comprehensive and professional manner. There are several other businesses along Monterey Street that have managed to remain open for even more years than mine. They must be doing something right.
Downtown Gilroy has been here for over a century. It doesn’t need to imitate Palo Alto, or even Morgan Hill. This doesn’t mean it’s perfect, it’s just older, and it reflects the interests of the people who support it.
Let’s consider that many of our newest residents chose their zip code based on the affordability of the housing. And now that those wannabe Los Altans are here, they moan about the rundown downtown, since property values will go up if there is a downtown with nice new buildings, higher rents for merchants of “quality,” and … in two or three years … a bookstore. It’s a case of “I love you, you’re perfect, now change.”
Candace Fazzio, Gilroy
