August 12, 2004

Street Talk by Justin Petersen

Should the city rename the Almaden Branch Library Doris Dillon Library after the nationally renowned educator from Almaden?
(asked at Safeway on Almaden Expressway before the decision was made)


“I think it should remain the Almaden Branch Library. Perhaps, they could dedicate it to Mrs. Dillon, but I don’t think changing the name entirely is quite appropriate. There are so many teachers out there, delivering valuable lessons and working hard to enrich students’ lives; it’s tough to select just one.”

Shawn Maiden, 23
Almaden Valley
Golf cart attendant


“I think it’s important that communities recognize the people that have made a difference. Although I am sure there are lots of other deserving people, you do have to start somewhere.”

Jennifer Fairbank, 25
Honolulu, Hawaii
Student

“I’ve heard Pat Dando’s position and I’ve heard the other opinion, but frankly I prefer to keep it just the Almaden Branch. It’s all right to name it after somebody, it reminds of that movie Deep Impact. [They say] ‘When we get back they’ll they have the high school named after us,’ but I’m used to the name Almaden Library. That basically follows the entire question of who the valley is and where we are.”

Cal Careway, 58
Almaden Valley
Nuclear engineer


“I’d agree with naming the library after her. I like Doris Dillon. My kids went to Graystone. They were in school when she passed away, in her last year there. That would be great if they named the library after her.”

Susan Caquette, 44
Almaden Valley
Homemaker

“I didn’t have any children going through here now, but if she did a lot for the community, yes, it would be nice, but if she did not, then I feel that somebody more deserving should [have that honor]. It depends on the situation. She was a great educator, I understand, and probably had her students do a lot of work there. I’m a former teacher. I don’t think they are ever going to name anything after me and I thought I was a good teacher.”

Loretta Welch, 68
Almaden Valley
Retired teacher

“I am brand new to this area, but I think it’s alright. It can be a good way to honor somebody, other than keeping it super-neutral.”

Doug Sandlin, 42
Almaden Valley
Unemployed