Opinion
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- Written by: Dave Gebhard
Eight years of their disastrous leadership has crippled this country, financially, morally, made us a laughing stock and, worst of all, made us hypocrites. Yes, made us into those who say, “Do as I say, not as I do.”
Now, they stubbornly refuse to assist our president in straightening out their mess. They seem to be copying California by allowing partisan politics to stalemate government. We are so fortunate that three Republicans broke from their fellows in the Senate, or we would be “up a creek.” Though I agree tax cuts are necessary for the middle class, but not for the rich.
The rich reap the greatest rewards from our government and system of laws. Money gives great freedom and the greatest variety of choice: choice to travel, own yachts, planes, great houses, jewelry, all the best. Our system protects them, their investments, their properties. Our laws and organizations like the Securities Exchange Commission, the banking system, all give protection to the wealthy.
But many feel that wealth should be kept in the family, even when it is excessive, or in the millions of dollars. An aristocracy is not in the best interests of this nation. Horatio Algers are not coming from the Eric Princes of this world (Blackwater Inc.).
Innovation will come from the educated youth, and the H-1B workers who used to supplement our creative brain trusts in Silicon Valley. In fact, the H-1B workers who are no longer allowed into this country have created one-third of the innovative businesses in Silicon Valley. Now the brain drain is going out not in, too bad for us.
Madison Avenue helped the Republicans attain and hold power for eight years, it would be great if they could utilize their talents to win the hearts of the rest of the world, which has turned on us, due to an arrogant administration during the past eight years.
Dave Gebhard lives in Lakeport.
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- Written by: Rick Mayo
The citizens of this city continue to suffer in many ways, and repression is only one of them.
It is indeed time for a “CHANGE” in direction.
Clearlake belongs to all of the citizens who reside, pay taxes and support the limited economy here.
This is evident by the participation of the many citizens who appeared at the Clearlake City Council's Feb. 12 meeting – they all care!
The Clearlake City Council’s actions are accountable to not only the citizens of this community, but also to state of California and the federal government as well.
One of our council members enjoys writing beautiful speeches of community unity and diversity, and ran on the promise of transparency in our government; however, their actions have fallen short of expectations.
I question the council's right to limit access or deprive any citizen of their due process rights to participate in a free democracy.
The City Council's recent decision to reappoint the current planning commissioners without any public participation offered or allowed is a clear indication of the council's unwillingness to consider other applicants to participate in a free democracy.
The council has thereby denied potentially qualified applicants whose particular strengths, backgrounds, experiences and talents might contribute significantly.
Some council members have embraced the “power of discretion” in their decision making process.
I believe that you have that right! Although “power of discretion” should be measured as well as tempered; and above all it must adhere to the rule of law.
Has the council forgotten that the framers of the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence wrote these powerful documents to keep us free from the establishment of oppression, fascism and totalitarian forms of government?
While our new president continues to challenge us to help bring about change and transparency in our government, the clear message from this council is opposition!
And, in my opinion, this city government’s actions are on the wrong side of history.
Rick Mayo lives in Clearlake.
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- Written by: Sandra West
My doctor was Tim Young, MD and chief of surgery at St. Helena Hospital. I was hesitant when choosing Dr. Young, knowing that my surgery would be at St. Helena Hospital, but due to his reputation of having an excellent bedside manner, I made my choice. Dr. Young and his assistant, Johnna, at his Clearlake office were professional, accommodating, pleasant and took the time to answer all of my questions and concerns about my upcoming surgery.
The day of my surgery I was a bit nervous but my nerves where quickly relieved upon arrival as I was treated with the utmost respect and care from Dr. Young and his surgical team at St. Helena Hospital. Thanks again Dr. Young and to all of your team including Johnna, Lee, Linda, Bill, Dr. Richi and Leslie for making my experience at St. Helena Hospital exemplary.
Sandra West lives in Kelseyville.
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- Written by: DA and Leona Butts
Things we know:
a. Recreational boating contributes approximately $16.5 billion to the gross state product and supports more than 8,500 related businesses, and 284,000 direct and indirect jobs. (Source: DBW Boating Needs Assessment Study, 2002)
b. With a Boating Director and a statewide Boating and Waterways Commission, DBW provides accountability, transparency, and leadership in its use of boater-derived taxes and fees. This will be lost if the DBW is absorbed into the larger Department of Parks and Recreation (which relies on the state General Fund).
c. DBW invests in boating infrastructure – docks, ramps, and marinas in a revolving fund that pays itself back (with interest!).
d. DBW ensures safe boating by supporting local law enforcement agencies, and boating safety education.
e. DBW is funded solely by boaters. It does not take general funds!
f. We certainly have nothing against the Department of Parks and Recreation because their function is very valuable to the citizens of California, even though it does take general funds for support.
g. It is rare to have a government department which is self supporting and does not use general funds for operations. Please do not destroy this important function.
DA and Leona Butts live in Clearlake Oaks.
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