Discovery Center would be a jewel in the city's crown

After years of moving throughout the United States, I decided to make Thousand Oaks my home. That was almost 21 years ago.

I'm very pleased and proud to be here, to have raised my son in this area and actively contributed as a community volunteer and professional to enhance the quality of life for all residents in the Conejo Valley.

I've seen many changes, much growth. Some cuttingedge businesses in science and technology have also elected to make the Valley their home. As a result, Thousand Oaks and Conejo Valley have become an integral sector of the science and technology corridor along the 101 Freeway in Southern California.

We've accommodated the arts in many ways, including the Civic Arts Plaza that adorns Thousand Oaks Boulevard. And that is as it should be. We have a phenomenal wing for the children's department of the Grant Brimhall/Thousand Oaks Library. It's a marvelous contribution to the quality and scope of living here. And there's been so much more. Now the time has come for a hands-on learning center for science and technology.

It makes perfect sense to have such a facility here and would be a win-win venture and adventure for all concerned. It would be a project that by its very nature would provide ongoing support for other businesses in this area and therefore fuel important tax revenue in a community that's nearing a buildout.

It would provide all the more encouragement for young adults to stay and raise their families here. It would be the foundation for the decision by some retiring professionals to stay here, too, rather than relocate elsewhere in California or beyond. Yes, that's already happening. Upstanding citizens (could elect) to retire here and help nurture the Discovery Center for Science and Technology. I'd like them not to move, and I know you would, too.

And then there are people like me, and no doubt other residents of all ages, with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. I want to know everything about the world under my feet, over my head and all around me.

I urge the City Council, citizens and businesses to endorse, support and help nurture the concept of a science and technology center. Come join me the day those doors open. I intend to be one of the first in line to make that journey into a world rich with new experiences, lifelong learning and lots of fun. Carol Knowles Thousand Oaks