Councilmen Give a Tip of the Hat to Colleague

City Council chambers looked like the Old West on Tuesday as some officials donned cowboy hats in support of Councilman James D. Petrikin, who announced that he’s recovering from health problems that kept him from attending six meetings this year.

Petrikin often wears cowboy clothing, including hats, bolo ties and patterned shirts, to meetings. Councilmen Chuck Conlosh and Guy Carrozzo joined him by wearing cowboy hats.

“I just wanted to say, ‘Welcome back,’ to Jim,” Conlosh said.

Petrikin, 57, was criticized this month by constituents and other officials for failing to attend meetings.

But Petrikin said he is recovering nicely from hip surgery and will complete his third term, which ends in 2000. “I want you to all know I am getting better every day. I love this city and I am really Fountain Valley-proud.”