As a teacher, I watched firsthand the attitudes of young people deteriorate, not only because of their situations at home and lack of positive influences, but also because of this community's neglect and disregard for them.

If teenagers have nothing to do, they will find something negative. I also watched as one by one, everything for the youth to do (skating rink, bowling alley, drive ins, etc.) has been taken away. They ask why they don't have any of the things that other cities (even Vacaville) have.

We now have a candidate running for the City Council who has the heart for the young people and the sincere desire to see change in the community. Yes, he is only 21, but I, for one, look at that as a good thing, at least in this city.

Who better to truly understand what young people need than one who is still young himself and in touch with the needs of the youth?

I have known Matt Garcia all his life; he is like a member of our family and I can vouch for not only his integrity, but his knowledge of city issues.

He has been a great positive influence in my grandson's life, as well as the lives of many other teenagers I know.

He has boundless energy and enthusiasm and has spent countless hours volunteering in the community by coaching youth sports teams, speaking at schools and juvenile halls, and many other things.

He is a true leader with a fervent love for our hometown of Fairfield and cannot stand to see many youth here lost to gangs, drugs and other negative influences.

Instead of merely complaining about the negative things happening here (as so many do) and the things we lack, he has decided to take action. He has my vote; hopefully he has yours.

Ed Serpas - Fairfield

Letters to the Editor - Daily Republic
October 27, 2007