We all need a good laugh these days with a never-ending, war, inflation and horrible deeds perpetuated by our fellow citizens, but do we need a principal in "drag" on the front page of our local newspaper? I cannot believe that there is a dearth of news that they are so reduced to this sophomoric humor.

  

There are real, important stories out there awaiting some enterprising reporters or an editor who's truly interested in community affairs. What about the "ghetto" that about six blocks from Clearlake City Hall? I'll gladly take some reporter on a tour if he's got the nerve and guts? How about exorbitant prices for water and rental rates that are rendering our senior citizens penniless? How about the building contractors who are constructing expensive units on sandy dunes and near creeks that are flooded in the winter?

  

Instead, they devoted the front page to a "cross dressing" principal. Is this the only method left for a principal to induce his students to achieve scholastic rewards? I sincerely hope not.

  

Their propensity for cheap, easy humor at the expense of a minority verges on the National Inquirer mode. The readers deserve better. This was not a matter of principle, it was a matter of embarrassment for the citizens of Lake County. In the future, if they feel so compelled, I hope they'll keep the "drag" at least on the entertainment page.

  

Harold Riley live in Clearlake.

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