Letters
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: Dave Gebhard
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: Rick Mayo
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