Zoning Woes and Football Glory
Look, it’s a wild time in Santa Clara County. On one hand, you’ve got local wineries up in arms over a proposed zoning ordinance that could shake up the agricultural landscape. On the other, high school football teams are gearing up for a new season, with hopes of glory on the gridiron. Let’s cut to the chase and dive into what’s really going on here. Starting with the wineries, Santa Clara County is looking to amend zoning laws across its rural districts, and the wine producers are feeling the heat. I mean, these folks aren’t just in it for the grapes; the county’s proposed changes are stirring up uncertainty about everything from operations to bottom lines. If you’ve ever wondered how zoning laws can make or break a local business, just take a look at Alamitos Vineyard co-owner Shaun Coleman, who’s anxious about how these amendments will impact his ability to thrive. The county claims these changes will help farmers and ranchers access undeveloped properties, which sounds good in theory. But here’s the kicker: many worry it could lead to unforeseen costs that could drive up wine prices. Coleman points out that wineries often operate on razor-thin margins—think single-digit percentage profits at best. Without clear regulations that consider the unique challenges of small operations, wineries could face limits on tastings and events, which are vital revenue streams. Kim Engelhardt, the president of the Wineries of Santa Clara Valley, has sent a letter to the county asking for protections like a grandfather clause to shield existing businesses from potentially crippling changes. And let’s not forget that the Santa Clara Valley wine industry is no small potatoes. It generates over $117 million annually in tourism dollars, and with some of the state’s oldest premium wine-producing areas, it’s a big part of the local identity. As the planning commission gears up for a special meeting to discuss these proposed changes, one can’t help but wonder: will they prioritize the voices of small business owners, or will the bureaucratic machine roll on without consideration for those who’ve been keeping the grape juice flowing?
Now shifting gears to the world of high school football, where excitement is brewing for the 2025 season, particularly in the West Catholic Athletic League (WCAL).
It’s a fierce battleground where teams like Archbishop Riordan are setting the bar high. With a strong roster that includes a SEC-bound quarterback and a Big Ten-bound offensive lineman, some coaches are predicting a breakthrough year for Riordan. They’re coming off a 7-5 season, but with a “ridiculously stacked” lineup, they’re ready to make waves. But it’s not all clear skies for every team. St. Francis is looking to maintain competitiveness despite losing star players. Coach Greg Calcagno believes defense will be their strength, and while they’re faced with big shoes to fill, they’ve got a solid foundation. Then you’ve got Serra, which is rebuilding but looking to bounce back from a tough previous season. Coach Patrick Walsh is hopeful that returning talent can push them toward a resurgence. And let’s not overlook Valley Christian, which boasts a mix of youth and experience. Their sophomore quarterback has some serious potential, and they’re banking on their seasoned offensive linemen to create opportunities. It’s that classic underdog story, and who doesn’t love rooting for the scrappy team that could pull off an upset?
So here’s the bottom line: both the wine industry and high school football in Santa Clara County are facing their own sets of challenges and opportunities. Wineries are fighting to preserve their way of life amidst changing regulations, while football teams are gearing up to tackle a new season, striving for victory. Whether it’s the sweet taste of a local cabernet or the thrill of a Friday night touchdown, these stories are all interwoven into the fabric of the community. As the county attempts to redefine agricultural zoning, let’s hope they consider the voices that have shaped the landscape—whether it’s in vineyards or on the football field. The future is uncertain, but one thing’s for sure: the passion of the people in Santa Clara County is as strong as ever. And that’s a story worth following.
