Photograph by Skye Dunlap

Mayor Manuel Valerio focused on the redevelopment of the downtown area in his state of the city speech April 21.




Valerio delivers reflective, hopeful state of city report

By Kelly Wilkinson

Mayor Manuel Valerio reflected upon Sunnyvale's heritage and anticipated a successful move into the next millennium in this year's state of the city address, delivered April 21 at the Palace restaurant.

After reviewing some of the city's successes--including the strength of its municipal services--Valerio focused his comments on the redevelopment of downtown.

"It's time again to revitalize, to re-energize our downtown so that it will again be a place where friends, family and community come together," he said.

He remarked on the success of Murphy Avenue before saying that, with the new downtown mall, the city could do even better.

"We're hoping to create a true public center that can foster a stronger sense of community identity--a place where friends can meet, business can be transacted and all of us can enjoy entertainment."

City Council approved plans for a redevelopment and extension of the lagging Town Center mall last month. Plans include new retail, 20 movie theaters and a walkway link to Murphy's shops and restaurants.

Valerio also acknowledged the troubles between the city and the Public Safety Department in the past few years.

"This simply demonstrates that even in a close family, there are differing views that are not always harmonious," he said. "We are willing and able to work through the hard times and to strengthen our relationship as a result."

He commended the Public Safety officers for their dedication and service.

Valerio also touched on the growing diversity of Sunnyvale, saying that the city's neighborhoods, schools and workplaces are filled with people from every corner of the globe.

"We must appreciate that all residents desire to live, rear their families and prosper in a community that is open and caring to the needs of a diverse population."

The speech followed a short video of the history of Sunnyvale that set the tone for Valerio's comments. The video illustrated how the city has retained its pioneer spirit by maintaining an economic powerhouse position: first in the agricultural realm and now in high tech.

The state of the city event was a special night for several Sunnyvale residents, who were recognized by the city as exemplary citizens.

The award for distinguished citizens of the year went to Gordon and Willa Markley, who volunteer as clowns in hospitals, nursing homes and rehabilitation centers. They also serve as grief counselors for the Center for Living with Dying, an organization that provides assistance for people experiencing grief and loss in their lives.

Vice Mayor Pat Vorreiter presented the award, and said that their contributions to the center have helped to make it "one of the most life-affirming places you could hope to find."

The Markleys donned their red clown noses after accepting the award, and said that they could be called the Patch Adamses of Sunnyvale.

"We feel like we're walking through a grove of giant redwoods," Gordon said of the past winners and nominees. "We really are among giants."

Charles Olson accepted the Mayor's Award of Excellence on behalf of his family and their business, Olson's Cherry Orchards. Valerio said the family has demonstrated a continuous commitment to the community during the past 100 years it has operated in Sunnyvale.

Charles Olson, whose orchard faces development after he discovered his trees were diseased, thanked the city for its support.

"We've been doing it for 100 years, but its never been a job," he said.

Valerio closed the night with a challenge to the residents to "commit to a renaissance in Sunnyvale. To a revival of our downtown, the support of our neighborhoods, and a reaffirmation of our spirit and belief in community. I encourage us to view change, not with fear and doubt, but with hope and optimism."

Public Safety

Writers reflect post-Vietnam American attitudes

Sports Briefs

Monta Vista wins close baseball game

CCS Top 8 Track Classic

Former football all-stars sought