New Organization Seeks to Rally Gilroyans to Revive Downtown

A new grass roots organization is being formed to patronize independent businesses in downtown Gilroy.

Much like "flash mobs" the group, Rally Round Downtown Gilroy, won't necessarily be breaking into a choreographed dance routine—even though it's no longer illegal under the recently adopted city ordinance that once banned dancing in downtown—but will focus on generating money to support local businesses.

A secondary purpose of the group, according to its founders, is to create a great mix of interesting people who come together to have fun and meet new friends on a regular basis.

According to R.R.D.G. founders, "Everyone is welcome and it is hoped that the makeup of the people who attend the organization's meet-ups [will] reflect a microcosm of Gilroy's citizenry."  

The first event of the R.R.D.G. is going to be held at 7 p.m., Saturday April 14 at Garlic City Billiards located at 7500 Monterey St. The meeting will also be an opportunity to welcome the new owner of Garlic City Billiards, Steven Knittel, who purchased the business from the previous owner Bob Tapella in June of 2011.

A special pricing discount of $5 for unlimited table use, versus $7 per hour, is being offered for the event. Future outings will showcase downtown services, retail, restaurants and artistic and entertainment options that currently exist downtown but aren't widely known about throughout the community. 

The R.R.D.G. group is in the process of creating a website to announce future events and post information on past events. The new website will also serve as a platform for members to comment on downtown issues, needs and businesses.

Members will be able to post their ideas on how to return downtown Gilroy to its former function as the center of the community. The group’s founders ultimately believe downtown areas are a place for people, without them there can be no life or vibrancy or sense of community.