“The Santa Clara Way.” It’s a phrase we’ve heard uttered far too often at Santa Clara City Council meetings, most specifically by our mayor and her political allies. So much so that it has become a beckoning call and a dirty word used by the majority upon our city streets. 

Because “the Santa Clara Way” has been used as code for dismissing proposals to adopt best practices, a way the majority has used its influence and power to suppress the growing minority as it begins making its voice heard at city hall. If things aren’t going Mayor Lisa Gillmor’s way, simply fall back on, “but that’s not the Santa Clara Way.”

But last week, another Santa Clara Way showed itself. One that was altruistic and giving. One that harkens back to the Santa Clara that I remember when I first moved here in the 1960s.

Last week, the Santa Clara community came together to honor a young man who tragically lost his life in a car accident on Lawrence Expressway. He was a Wilcox Charger. A Westside Little League alum. A local youth soccer player. 

The Santa Clara community joined hands to honor the young man and a young life cut short. They mourned together and with the family and reminded us of the love and support that the people of Santa Clara offer one another in times of need. 

Thank you, Santa Clarans, for reminding us what “the Santa Clara Way” truly means. 

Santa Clara is a community filled with warmhearted, dynamic and passionate people. I am proud to call you my neighbors, my friends and my community.

Previous Posts in Milestones:
Milestones – Salute to Our Service Clubs – Opinion
Milestones – Making Spirits Bright – Opinion
Milestones – Blessed to Live in Santa Clara – Opinion
Milestones – Much to be Grateful for – Opinion