“ I enlisted the help of four Gilroy High students to come up with designs for the windows and the exterior of the building , to cosmetically change the look , to make it look like it is a viable building doing business downtown .”

On Jan . 9 , 2010 , the four students , Jasmine Darbhamulla , Josh Morales , Alex Marshall and Michael Boehnker , presented their design ideas to a panel of Gilroy Dignitaries : Mayor Al Pinheiro , Susan Valenta and Eric Howard and the landowner , Raul Yanez and his children … The panel selected THE OLD BANK OF GILROY by Josh Morales ”

“ I met the students in December 2009 …. meeting and painting in my home studio every week : Saturdays and Wednesday after school . At least 12 hours a week for almost 5 months . Josh Morales , our team leader directed us every step of the way .” “ I am so impressed with the dedication , commitment and talent of these four students . In spite of jobs , school work and all the other activities that they have to deal with they were always there working to make this project successful .”

“ The plexiglass panels were inserted , April 24 , 2010 , behind the existing windows making the front of the store look like it is an operating establishment . We are painting the doors and trim and will finish that soon . We are hoping to get backlighting on a timer to light the plexiglass at night . In addition , benches and planters with flowers and a small sign will be put outside to change the look and make it visually beautiful .”

“ My hope is that other building owners will see the change and follow suit . They may ask other organizations to take a building and do the same . Maybe ask teachers at different schools to participate , and with our one building , start a process that will change the look of the downtown so that it is visually beautiful .”

“ I know what Gilroy looked like years ago when the stores were all occupied and bustling with business , so it is not hard for me to see it that way again . This cosmetic beautification would just be temporary , of course , but if others follow , it will make Gilroy lovely to look at and also bring the energy of young people to our community .”

Special Thanks to : Parents : Mario Moretti , Brian Marshall Gilroy Chamber of Commerce Gilroy Downtown Business Association Ignacio Magana , - MISSION Powder Coating Tom Cline - Glass Concepts by Cline Mike Jones -Cleaning Services