Thumbs up: For the San Juan Bautista Chamber of Commerce and the SJB Downtown Merchants Association and others that are trying to draw more tourists to their charming little town. They want to put a billboard on U.S. 101 to let passing motorists know the town is there; they are trying to attract bus tours; and they hosted a media day Thursday to try to spread the word. We wish them the best of luck. San Juan Bautista is an eccentric and fun burg that oozes personality. It deserves broad attention and the economic boost that will come with it.
Thumbs down: For the early warm weather which will mean one summer treat won’t be so sweet. The unseasonably warm weather means cherries are ripening early and will put in an early appearance on store shelves. That sounds good, but the cherries won’t be as sweet or plentiful as in years past. That’s not to mention the economic hurt it will put on farmers, some of whom only expect to see half their normal cherry yield.
Thumbs up: For the city gearing up to market the vacant lot on the corner of Fourth and San Benito streets. With the building moratorium expected to end in about 18 months, the city is showing foresight by asking developers to submit their project ideas now. The right kind of development could boost the downtown economy and become a jewel in Hollister’s crown.
Thumbs up: For recent attention county supervisors have given to West Nile Virus, and their decision to form a task force monitoring the disease in San Benito County. Infected mosquitoes have spread across the country since the illness was first detected in 1999. Last year alone, the virus killed 262 people. California will undoubtedly have its share of infections this summer, so cheers to the county for getting on board and recognizing the potential for problems. Here’s to more preventative measures in the future.
Thumbs up: For the patriotic women of Hollister who have selflessly dedicated their time and dollars to support troops overseas. Azie Salvas, Felicidad Kankelborg and Lauretta Avina, with help from their friend Mariles Pellman, met to send care packages to their loved ones but quickly expanded to send packages to numerous soldiers far from home. Now the ladies want to start a local support group for military families in Hollister. American spirit, alive and well in Hollister, makes us proud.
Thumbs down: For past county supervisors who failed to enact several County Service Areas after they were passed, some decades ago. The oversight has cost citizens big bucks in tax revenues over the years. Now the county budget is bleeding red for next year. Obviously these CSAs didn’t cause the latest round of budget blunders, but the revenue sure wouldn’t hurt.
Thumbs up:For James McDonald and South Valley Internet owner Roy Engehausen who are vying to buy Hollinet, the local Internet service provider that filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy Wednesday. With luck, the transition will be seamless, avoiding what could have been a major headache for the 2,000 companies, government agencies and customers who use Hollinet for Web sites and Internet access.
To respond to this editorial or comment on this issue, please send or bring letters to Editor, Hollister Free Lance, 350 Sixth St., Hollister, Calif. 95023 or fax to 637-4104 or e-mail to ed****@fr***********.com
