Happy 95th Muenzer’s!
The following events, organizations and people deserve either a Thumbs Up or a Thumbs Down this week.
THUMBS UP: Ninety-five years. Holy cow. Taft was president, and he’s long gone, but Muenzer’s, the venerable Hollister sporting goods store, is still around. And we hope they stay around for another 95 years. Congratulations on the anniversary!
THUMBS UP: The Hollister School Board has had its share of problems, but one potentially good idea it has come up with lately, thanks to new superintendent Ron Crates, is to create magnet schools. While we reserve judgment pending the outcome of a new study of the idea commissioned by the school board, we are encouraged that, in the midst of serious financial problems, the district has not lost sight of the importance of encouraging quality education – and that is something magnet schools have the potential to promote.
THUMBS DOWN: Shame on the puppy-nappers! Angelica and Marlene Munoz wait anxiously for word that their Golden Retriever pups have been found and are safe and sound. But every day that passes is hazardous for the puppies, who need their mother at this young age to survive. Bring back the puppies – and the clothing you stole as well. No questions asked.
THUMBS DOWN: Immeasurably greater shame on the shotgun wielding thugs who have made three attacks in less than a week. The recent upsurge in apparent gang-related violence is a despicable turn of events in the life of this town and its overwhelmingly law-abiding citizens. To the purveyors of this terror, we say get out of town. Take your stupid, lethal disrespect for life elsewhere. To the cops: Get aggressive. Find these scum.
THUMBS UP: The Free Lance has a new papa and and new mama, who together are enjoying their new daughter Kira. Editor Conan Knoll and Lifestyles Editor Colleen Valles welcomed their 6 pound, four-ounce bundle of heaven into their lives October 20. Congratulations! Now get some sleep.
To voters, who have suffered through another season of ugly attack ads, misinformation, and disinformation, we say: hang in there. Only one more week to go! Stay engaged, and don’t forget to vote Nov. 8. This democracy thing may be a bit unwieldy, and it is certainly trying of one’s patience, but with so many people around the world wishing they had it, and dying for it, the least we can do is take part in it.
