As neighbors living next to the El Quito Park, we have seen many dog owners who bring their dogs to the park which has a "Dogs must be on leash" sign.

The responsible owners leash their dogs and pick up after them. The irresponsible owners ignore the sign and never pick up after their dogs. These owners often shout at their dogs to demand obedience.

El Quito Park has already attracted so many irresponsible owners who ignore the signs. There are not enough sheriff patrols to enforce the rules and we believe they have more important tasks to attend to. Please do not allow this park to become an off-leash dog park because this would only attract more irresponsible dog owners.

There is also a new playground next to the park that attracts many children throughout the day. We hope the city would seriously consider the benefit for children, seniors and responsible dog owners before giving this park to the dogs.

Marcus Khoo, Hannah Quain

Sara Park Circle

Visitor calls Saratoga
'A Town Without Pity'

Our family suffered the loss of three family members in 2004. A few weeks ago, my mother and I were visiting a family friend who is dying who recently moved to Saratoga. This was the first day my mother and I had left home since my father's death in late October. We had lunch and did some shopping in Saratoga and had a pleasant afternoon.

However, the day was ruined by a hard-nosed police officer in Saratoga who showed no understanding. I made two mistakes that day. The first was when I made a left turn from Fruitvale Avenue onto Saratoga Avenue. My second mistake was thinking that the city of Saratoga had compassion for a grieving family.

Had I seen the traffic signs saying "no left on red" I never would have made the turn. Laying in wait to snare any first-time visitor to your city was a police office who pounced on me like a lion on prey. My 86-year-old mother attempted to speak to the officer and he shouted at her to get back into the car.

I hope the officer is happy that his laying in wait paid off. When I hear the song "A Town Without Pity," I always will think of Saratoga. I will not return to your mean-hearted city.

Orla Stuart

Santa Cruz

Patrick James says
goodbye to Saratoga

Now that Patrick James Men's Store has closed in the Village, I would like to personally say goodbye and thank you to everyone in Saratoga.

I will have many wonderful memories and friends to take with me for the rest of my life--especially the Saratoga Rotary, Business District Council, City Hall, Chamber of Commerce and, of course, all of you who frequented Patrick James. You have made my stay here truly a great experience.

It's a sad moment for me, but I have been blessed with my brief tenure in this wonderful place on earth. I will certainly return to maintain and renew my relationship with Saratoga and the many friends I have made.

See you all at the Saratoga Rotary Art Show the first Sunday in May.

George Newton

Big Basin Way