The current state budget crisis will cause the elimination of the Santa Clara County 4-H Youth Development Program. The 4-H program, in conjunction with the Master Gardeners program, Farm Advisor, Small Farms program, Natural Resources/Livestock program and the Expanded Food and Nutrition program serving low-income residents under the University of California Cooperative Extension, will no longer exist in Santa Clara County beginning July 1, 2004, due to county budget constraints.

I am asking county residents for your help in fighting to keep the 4-H Youth Development Program. Santa Clara County has always had a rich agricultural heritage that 4-H continues through its varied livestock projects.

Today's 4-H youth program encompasses so much more. Our children, ages 5 to 19, develop their leadership and citizenship skills, build self-confidence, participate in hands-on experiences and gain fundamental knowledge in a wide variety of projects. These children work hard and work together as a community. The 4-H program provides opportunities for any child. They are our future CEOs, doctors, scientists, teachers, leaders and parents.

Evelyn McGarry

Homesteaders 4-H Club Co-Community Leader
San Jose

Saratoga Village
needs attention

What is happening, or should I say not happening, in Saratoga Village?

Last week, I enjoyed dinner in one of our fine restaurants, but to my dismay the Village itself looked quite tired and sad!

Weeds growing on the sidewalk, lamppost tops hanging askew and a general unkemptness around the Village.

There were few people in the restaurants, which I feel was a genuine reflection of the environment!

Tender loving care appears to be a definite requirement!

In contrast, I had lunch the same week in Old Town, Los Gatos. What a delight—a truly uplifting experience, with planters overflowing with beautiful, welcoming flowers.

I wanted to linger and soak in the ambience and beauty of it all.

Come on, Saratoga Village. Pick yourself up and dust yourself down!

Anne Jones

Burgundy Way

Money should not be
given to merchants

How many readers are incensed at the prospect (page 1, May 5 Saratoga News) of the city giving merchants $5,000 to decorate their premises? We continually hear politicians whining about budget cuts. But I tell you when I hear of such gifts to those who are already more wealthy than most residents who are paying taxes, I resolve once again to vote against any tax measures. If the council thinks its higher priority is to give money to wealthy business owners than, for example, to operate the library, I want a different city council.

Pieter Kaempf

Allendale Avenue