We will remember for a lifetime where we were when we first heard the unbelievable news. Etched into our memories eternally will be the horrifying images played out on our television screens. We will share as a nation our grief for the victims whose lives were taken by the senseless acts of terrorism. And we will forever honor the heroic efforts of the emergency personnel, the passengers on Flight 93 and the others who put their lives on the line for others.

On Wednesday we observe the first anniversary of America's darkest day. The town will mark the day with a moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. on Wednesday, and St. Mary's Catholic Church will host an inter-faith memorial event at 7:30 p.m. There will be other events of remembrance at area churches and schools.

It's important that we remember.

But it's also important that we recapture that spirit that united a nation in the aftermath of Sept. 11. Suddenly it felt good to be an American. It was with pride that we flew our nation's colors, and it felt right to join with others in a chorus of "God Bless America."

For a while, we were all generous with our donations of time, of blood, of dollars. For a time, we were all patient and compassionate.

It felt good. But over a year, those feelings of patriotism and tolerance may have slipped away. We need to search deep within ourselves to see if we have lost a little of that spirit as time separates us from that tragic day.

There will be much written and broadcast in connection with this dubious anniversary of Sept. 11.

But the message going out today should ring a familiar theme—that we remain vigilant; that we remain united; that we remember the events of a year ago and honor the victims; and that we remain tolerant of our fellow Americans, regardless of their national origin.

Donations make big splash

There was little doubt that Los Gatos High School was going to get its new pool. The only question was when.

And the Valley Foundation answered that question last week.

The foundation poured $1 million into the pool fund to complete the effort to raise the $2.8 million needed to begin construction.

The Valley Foundation had already committed $500,000 to the project and the town's allocation of $300,000 of redevelopment bond dollars had pushed the fund well over the halfway point, but still well short of its final goal. The final $1 million donation means that, after formal approval by the school district, plans can be sent to the state architect to get the project moving.

Hats off to the Valley Foundation and the town council for providing the balance of the funding to make this community dream come true.