In the wake of recent news to start the year – yes, we’re all thumbs.
Thumbs-up: To the 2019 Mountain View City Council, which saw three newly elected members sworn in last week, along with the appointment of a new mayor and vice mayor. As mayor, Lisa Matichak brings a level-headed approach to leadership, while newcomers Ellen Kamei, Lucas Ramirez and Alison Hicks all come highly qualified to carry on the business of this high-profile city.
Thumbs-up: To the new Los Altos City Council, which, with five female members, comprises the only all-woman council in the state. The council is set to chart its course for the year at a retreat scheduled Saturday.
Thumbs-up: To local schools like Canterbury Christian and Waldorf School of the Peninsula that offer parents another solid education option – one that downplays tech altogether. While acknowledging the realities of today’s world, these schools, profiled in last week’s Town Crier, provide students a break from the 24/7 screen onslaught. Instead, students get a good fundamental education.
No thumbs: To Bullis Charter School’s newly approved charter in the Mountain View Whisman School District. We’re not sure how we feel about this major decision. Obviously, it’s too soon to assess the charter’s impact on the district. But we don’t like the fact that the district board felt it had little choice but to approve the charter.
Thumbs-down: To the judges of the 76th annual Golden Globe Awards, who managed not to award “Crazy Rich Asians” and the movie’s producer, Los Altos Hills native Jon Chu, though the well-received film was nominated for Best Musical or Comedy. Actress Constance Wu also was nominated for her role in the film. Chu is the son of local restaurateur Larry Chu, founder of the popular Chef Chu’s restaurant.
Thumbs-up: To Dennis Young, the Town Crier’s 2018 Los Altan of the Year, who will be honored at a Jan. 23 dinner (it’s sold out). Young can say all he wants about how volunteering is good for business, but we’re convinced his ultimate motivation comes from his heart. For decades, Young has given his time, money and talents to myriad good and diverse causes. Always helpful, always realiable, this community owes a debt of gratitude to this tireless volunteer.
