July 26th is the Burlingame Voice blog's birthday and today it is 22.  The hardcopy editions back in the day started several years before–we're not quite sure how much earlier since we didn't put a date on each edition, but the on-line presence has a clear birth date.  Reflecting on the categories and their content, I'm struck by how much changes and yet how many people's points of view and concerns stay the same.  164 posts about high-cost rail?  Still a boondoggle that needs to die.  Overdevelopment in the neighborhoods?  The shift from worrying about McMansions to worrying about huge multi-unit complexes on R-1 lots is a difference without a distinction, just the magnitude.  Keeping our infrastructure, streets and public safety best in class?  The same as it was 22 years ago.  Maintaining our treescape and streetscapes?  Check and continue to question the cheesy little plastic street bollards and visual pollution proliferating around town like rodents. 

With another year in the books, the 23rd year will bring more change, but the same perspective–that of regular residents who care about our little city and don't want its quality of life to degrade.  The pressures are enormous especially from Sacramento and Redwood City (i.e. the state and county).  If you don't stay informed and stay willing to speak up, you get what you get and have little reason to complain.  If you are vigilant at least you will have the "I told you so" relief.

I happened to see this gorgeous Burlingame bungalow that is all spiffed up for sale this week and it reminded me of all the early fights that go on to this day.  It reminded me of why we started 22 years ago and why we persevere.  Some lucky new owner will join the community and share our concerns.  Blog on!