Cheers for helping the homeless; jeers for gas pains
THUMBS UP: For the progress the city, county and local nonprofit groups are making in establishing a winter homeless shelter in San Benito County. In a county that has seen a year of political infighting, it is a joy to see our elected officials working with each other and with concerned residents to make a difference in the lives of the least fortunate amongst us.
THUMBS UP: For the fight against colon cancer in our county. Colon cancer is the second-deadliest form of cancer, but is highly treatable if caught in the early stages. The experts say that of 11,000 San Benito County residents over the age of 50, there are between 30 and 50 people with undetected signs of colon cancer. So, if you are over 50, have a family history of colon cancer or have been putting off getting screened because of the unpleasant nature of the test or because you don’t have health insurance, take advantage of today’s health fair at Hazel Hawkins from 11am-2pm. There, you can learn more about the disease and what you can do to get tested.
THUMBS UP: For the annual Farm School Day held at Bolado Park this week. Hundreds of third graders from local schools had a chance to pet pigs, learn about ladybugs and connected with the county’s agricultural roots. The program, put on for the last 14 years by the Farm Bureau’s Ag in the Classroom Foundation, offered students a wealth of information, a hands-on opportunity to learn about the world around them and exposure to possible careers.
THUMBS DOWN: For soaring gas prices. Gas reached $2.24 per gallon last week in Hollister, and there are reports it’s reached $3 per gallon Malibu. While reducing our dependence on foreign oil is a tempting panacea, there are plenty of other measures we can take to reduce our consumption. Increasing fuel efficiency standards in new cars, encouraging carpooling and establishing efficient public transportation all would be good ways to curb our gas-guzzling habits.
