Marie Panec would be your best representative in Congress. She truly deserves your vote. I have known Marie personally and professionally for many years. She has served as a biology professor and department chairwoman at Moorpark College. She also was elected to two terms to the Oak Park School Board on which she is currently serving.

This woman is a very long-term and active resident of Ventura County, not someone who has just moved in for the election.

Marie uses common sense and intelligence to represent her constituents. Her voice will be our voice in Congress. With her science background, she works for the environment and job creation, such as the biotech program that she helped start at Moorpark College.

In addtion to job creation and environmental sustainability, Marie has dedicated her life to education, teaching as a college professor for many years and serving on the K-12 School Board for eight years. She is a strong proponent of career education, which helps people be employable.

Marie is outstanding, honest, hardworking, sincere and intelligent. She is an active leader who cares about the community in which we live and the world which our children will inherit.

Marie Panec is the best candidate for Congress. She has my vote and I hope yours.

~ Victoria Bortolussi,
Ventura

I wonder if I am alone in remembering Jerry Brown's time as governor. I haven't seen a single reference to "Governor Moonbeam" in any of the news articles about his current candidacy. His opponent should have a treasure trove in his old TV appearances and news conferences from that era.

James M. Crosser,
Ventura

As a Democrat living in the city of Ventura, I'm mostly an observer of the battle between two Republican Board of Supervisor candidates in the east end of the county. However, I do admit to pumping my fist with pleasure when I read that "Strickland supporters don't consider Linda Parks a real Republican because she once was a registered Democrat." (That remark is taken from May 30 news coverage in the Ventura County Star, but I've seen it in letters to the editor, too.)

Way to go, you cradle to grave GOPers! Keep announcing that voters who switch to your party are not considered real Republicans. While you're at it, remind them you have a special badge of shame, Republican-In-Name-Only or RINO, to pin on members who stray from the party line.

To voters interested in taking part in political activities, come join the Democratic Party. You will be welcomed as full members from day one. If you join us, you are encouraged to bring your brains along with you. We have no DINO label for members, including new registrants, who may not share each and every view expressed in our party platform.

Scott Ulric,
Ventura

I am writing to endorse Linda Parks for another term as Ventura County Supervisor. I first moved to Ventura in 1962, a time when it was not so unique. Since then, Santa Barbara to the north clamped down hard on growth and Los Angeles to the south has done the opposite. The results are clear. We are in the middle, having retained our county's basic character while allowing for a vibrant economy.

It is the planning and foresight of many good people we have to thank for this, and Linda Parks for decades has been a linchpin among them. I have spoken with Linda many times over the years. She is intelligent, knowledgeable on the issues and cares deeply for preserving Ventura County in a balanced manner. That is why I will vote for Linda Parks, and I hope you will as well.

Drew Fountaine,
Oak Park

Re: May 30 article, "Local Japanese-American's tales of internment stir grim memories":

The story this morning about the sorry response to the Japanese attack on Dec. 7, 1941, cries out for an explanation of that shameful business. There are few of us left who remember how it was. Yes, the people on the west coast, even generations of Japanese-Americans were terrified that a followup was sure to come. Then, the papers reported a Japanese warship shelling the coast above Santa Barbara, and Calfornia went up for grabs.

At the time I was working at an ammunitions plant in Iowa, but the mood of my neighbors even back there was "lookout, here it comes."

The paper today mentions that 120,000 Japanese were interned in western states, away from the coast. Uncomfortable, unpleasant, but safe. Safe from Japanese shells, safe from terrified neighbors. On the other hand, because of the Japanese attack, millions of American boys, including Japanese-Americans spent months and years in cold, lonely, scary foxholes. Away from family and loved ones.

Almost all of those 120,000 interned Japanese returned to live prosperous, even important lives. Many, oh so many Americans did not. Three out of every four of my classmates did not.

Hal Wilder,
Camarillo

When Ventura County Supervisor Linda Parks arrived at a candidates' debate last Friday night, it was to the surprise of most - if not everyone - in attendance. After all, the debate with candidate Audra Strickland was organized by the termed-out assemblywoman's own supporters and campaign contributors who doubted Ms. Parks would show. Any other candidate would not have gone into a shooting gallery, as Ms. Parks described it. The fact that she was willing to face her adversaries in a hostile setting with grace and dignity, was admirable.

Ms. Parks' participation speaks volumes about her convictions and character not only as a person, but as a true public servant who refuses to back down from a challenge. Ms. Parks knows she represents everyone in District 2.

Ms. Parks has consistently put the public's good over petty politics and has earned our trust. Even more, while being outspent 6-1 in this campaign, she continues to triumph in the face of severe adversity. We need Linda Parks' forthrightness and fearlessness for our community. Join me in voting for Linda Parks for Supervisor on June 8.

Claudia Bill-de la Peña,
Thousand Oaks

The race for Sheriff may be confusing for those not familiar with the agency. As a Sheriff's Commander for eight years, and a law enforcement officer for 32 years, I am supporting Dennis Carpenter. The reasons are simple. Dennis is a decent man with the temperament, maturity and leadership qualities to build upon the legacy of Sheriff Bob Brooks. I am very proud of the men and women of our Sheriff's Department and see no reason to change course and disrupt the progress of a successful department. If you are proud of our Sheriff's Department and see no justification for a change, vote for Dennis Carpenter!

~ Brent Morris,
Ventura

One candidate for County Treasurer is focusing on the "Ticking Time Bomb" of extravagant public employee pensions, as candidate Don Facciano calls them.

Don Facciano, "The Taxpayer's Watchdog," has consistently promoted pension reform as a necessary step in returning our state to fiscal solvency. Long before and throughout this campaign, Mr. Facciano has publicly championed local taxpayers. In doing so, he has taken on the powerful self-interests of the entrenched public employee unions, who back one of his opponents.

Not only has Don Facciano proved he will fight to protect our precious tax dollars from the spendthrift attitudes and lax oversight of our local politicians - including the incumbent Treasurer, who supports one of Don's opponents - he is making concrete commitments to help local residents by improving online access to Treasurer/Tax Collector services, including allowing secure online tax payments.

I have seen Don Facciano in action as both community volunteer, nonprofit charitable fundraiser and county government appointee. He has earned a wide reputation for fairness, integrity and sound financial judgment. Don Facciano will make an outstanding Treasurer/Tax Collector, especially in these difficult economic times.

~ Richard Harris,
Ventura

Marie Panec would make an excellent Congressional representative. As a former student of Oak Park High School who served as a student representative on the Oak Park School Board, I have had a unique opportunity to work alongside and learn from Dr. Panec.

As a young person new to the world of governance and public service, I am grateful that Dr. Panec took a personal interest by sharing her remarkable knowledge, both of school board procedure and good governance. From this, I learned another aspect of good governing that Dr. Panec embodies; she takes personal interests in her constituents. She demonstrates qualities essential to public service that I hope to emulate: honesty, responsibility, intelligence and hard work. Dr. Panec, an exceptional School Board representative, epitomizes what I look for in public servants.

In working with Dr. Panec, I observed a person who has excellent understanding of what is best for the community as a whole, a selfless public servant who is willing to stand by what she believes is right, and a person who is dedicated to transparent, honest government. I have no doubts that Dr. Panec would be a dedicated representative who would serve the best interests of the district.

Ben Pyle,
Oak Park

For those of you on the Lord's Almighty Right, please help me understand this one:

Some years ago, radio's Don Imus lost his job over a "toss-off" remark involving black women on a Rutgers athletic team, an episode that took only a few seconds, involving just a few words.

Yesterday, your Glenn Beck, and his co-host, Pat Gray, spent at least four minutes mimicking one of President Obama's daughters and the president. Beck has received nothing but praise from you for "telling it like it is."

Following the president's news conference, where he said Malia asked if he'd "plugged the hole yet," meaning the BP off-shore oil well, Beck, in a "squeaky voice" mimicked her saying, repeatedly, "Daddy, did you plug the hole yet," to which Gray, mimicking the president replied, "Not time yet, honey, hasn't done enough damage."

Beck then questioned and attacked Malia's intelligence and education in asking the question.

Not yet through slinging racist mud, Beck again mimicked Malia asking, "Why do you (the president) hate black people so much?" to which Gray, again mimicking the president, replied, "I'm part white, honey."

For those of you on the right, who absolutely insist your Fox News people, of which Beck is one, are "fair and balanced," how can you dismiss Imus losing his job over and "off the cuff" remark, while applauding an absolutely tasteless and unfair four-minute attack on an 11-year-old girls? Especially after Beck had earlier chastised those criticizing Bristol Palin, saying "public figures' kids should be left alone."

Please don't tell me about Beck's "apology," it was too late, and way too little.

If Imus lost his job over racist remarks, shouldn't Glenn Beck? Would that not be the "fair and balanced" you so espouse? I guess not.

Your right-wing movement, as espoused by your iconic media leaders like Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh is clearly hateful, racist, shameful and despicable.

Bob Jackson,
Simi Valley

Re: Bill O'Reilly's May 29 column, "Who will rescue Lindsay Lohan?":

It's kind of Bill O'Reilly to express concern with Lindsay Lohan's drug use in his column. As a matter of public policy, though, I'm less concerned with rescuing Lindsay Lohan than with a common error in O'Reilly's English.

In two otherwise well-written, if politically charged sentences, O'Reilly refers to "alcohol- and drug-related causes of death" for rock stars and rock concerts of "the Woodstock days" and later as "drug- and alcohol-fueled free-for-alls."

Saying "alcohol and drugs" is like saying "a hammer and tools," "an apple and fruit," or "an editor and humans."

Editors are humans; apples are a variety of fruit; and ethyl alcohol consumed to seek pleasure and/or avoid pain is a drug. "Alcohol and drugs" and similar phrases are common usage, which is the problem. The issue isn't grammatical so much as ethical and political.

It's easy to write "alcohol and other drugs" or "alcohol and illegal drugs," so it's a puzzle why editors don't simply correct an odd usage or why writers and speakers use it at all.

If you use alcohol responsibly -- or aspirin, for that matter, you're not a drug addict, but you're responsibly using a drug. You need to test against your experience with drug use all the assertions people make about drugs and note that your drug was once the target of a War on Drugs and that all those unmodified comments about "drug users" apply to you.

You (probably) use legal drugs. We Americans live in a drug culture -- check out the commercials on TV for beer and pharmaceuticals -- and we Americans need a serious, in-depth discussion of what to do about our drugs. The phrase "alcohol and drugs" and its relatives help us avoid that discussion, which is why they are so popular -- and so deeply wrong.

-- Richard D. Erlich
Port Hueneme

I predict that there will be a spate of letters to the paper that will be carefully drafted by Audra Strickland's campaign team and paid for the Ventura County Republican Party, as shown by their expenditure reports (see online at: http://cal-access.sos.ca.gov/Campaign/Committees/Detail.aspx?id=1018523&session=2009&view=expenditures). They will claim that they have waited to comment on the race for supervisor, but after reading all the articles and letters in the paper and looking at all the mailers pro and con, they have finally arrived at a decision to vote for - pause for dramatic effect - Strickland. Those letters will be as phony as all the chock-full-o'-lies mailers Republicans have been inundated with the last three months.

I predict that whoever signs those canned missives will feign misgiving about the negative tone of the campaign, but will pretend that Linda Parks is equally at fault. I predict that they will find some pretext, such as firefighters' support of Parks and the public service workers' opposition to Strickland, as evidence of some nefarious union plot, yet they will ignore the CCPOA PAC, the political action committee for the California prison guards' union, directly spending more money than the both of them combined, $25,000 so far, for Strickland's campaign.

I predict with the influx of even more astounding amounts of money ($100,000 from a single source yesterday) there will be a full assault on Parks' character and last-minute, outrageous and unsupported accusations in a last-ditch attempt to knock her down and drag her through the mud.

Nora Aidukas,
Thousand Oaks

I was a trial attorney for 37 years. As a prosecutor, defense attorney and family law attorney, I have tried every kind of criminal and family law case.

I have known Judge Gay Conroy for more than 25 years as a colleague, commissioner and judge. I cannot think of any case I ever handled that I would not try before Judge Conroy. When she is the judge, you know Judge Conroy will listen carefully, treat you fairly and come to a decision that follows the law. She has earned her place on the bench and deserves your vote. Judge Conroy is the only candidate with the experience, temperment and qualifications for this seat.

We need to retain Judge Conroy. No question.

Jay M. Johnson,
Ventura

I am writing in support of Marie Panec's candidacy for the Democratic Party nomination for the 24th Congressional District. I have known and worked with Marie in a variety of capacities for the past 15 years, and I believe that she has the qualities that we need in our elected representatives.

I got to know Marie years ago when, as a parent volunteer, she brought a group of her Moorpark College students to our own children's elementary school to lead a series of "detective" workshops involving scientific techniques. I was impressed then by her creativity and commitment to the education of all concerned. In the years that have followed, I have continued to be impressed by her ability to think outside the box and her willingness to develop new approaches.

As a school board member, Marie consistently has been accessible to the community and responsive in addressing concerns that are brought to her attention. She takes her responsibilities seriously, studying the issues, regularly visiting the schools and making sometimes tough decisions. There is no question of her hard work and dedication to community service. Whether or not you agree with Marie's position on an issue, you will always know that it is based on careful study and impeccable ethics.

The American people need elected representatives who are intelligent, innovative and dedicated, whose actions reflect high ethical standards and who are not beholden to special interests. Marie Panec is such a person.

Judy Wiener,
Oak Park

The senior citizen population of Ventura County is growing at an increasing rate. This is a result of seniors living longer and baby boomers entering the senior population. We need a Supervisor in District 2 who understands senior issues and the challenges faced by the county. Supervisor Linda Parks has been a strong advocate for seniors in Ventura County. For example, as a member of the Board of Supervisors, Parks has sponsored two Senior Summits, in 2005 and 2009, where senior concerns and proposed solutions are discussed.

While in Sacramento, Audra Strickland has done nothing to help seniors, but rather, has focused her attention on big corporate interests, such as the insurance industry. In fact, when Strickand has addressed local venues on topics affecting seniors, her lack of knowledge on issues of concern to seniors, including relevant state legislation was evident.

If Strickland didn't help seniors in Sacramento, how can she help them in Ventura. The choice is clear; return Linda Parks to the Board of Supervisors from District 2.

Mel Silberberg,
Thousand Oaks

The Newbury Park High School baseball program held its first rummage sale May 22 at the Songbird Office Park in Newbury Park. The community and parent support for this event was nothing short of amazing.

The sale had been in the planning stage for three months, during which time Hollywood Storage generously donated a large unit to store donated clothing, furniture and other household items. Within three weeks, we outgrew the storage unit, and the owner of the Songbird Office Park donated a 4,700 sq ft. office space for us to house the treasures. Lister Rents of Thousand Oaks donated a 16-foot truck to help us move the donations into the parking lot on the morning of May 22. Our baseball parents and players arrived at 5 a.m., moved items and assisted customers during the sale, and stayed late into the evening to assist with cleanup.

After a lot of hard work, wonderful treasures donated and the tremendous outpouring of support for this fundraiser, the rummage sale was a huge success! All proceeds benefited the Newbury Park High School baseball program. Organizations that benefited from treasures that did not sell include Manna, the American Cancer Society, Camp Ronald McDonald, Goodwill and international organizations in Ghana, West Africa and Mexico.

The strategic vision of the NPHS baseball program is to develop student-athletes who are committed to achieving excellence in the classroom, on the field and in the community. To accomplish this, we have undertaken an ambitious effort to improve the baseball facilities and to encourage everyone to proudly share in the development, success and enjoyment of our vision. Fundraising activities, donations and sponsorships allow us to create an atmosphere that encourages mental, social and emotional maturity for each student-athlete and teaches them the importance of community involvement.

The NPHS baseball program expresses our appreciation for the community's support.

Theresa Brown,
President, NPHS Baseball Boosters,
Thousan Oaks

Candidates running for California offices are spending tons of money, and political television ads run endlessly. Meg Whitman is connected to Goldman Sachs, which helped to almost ruin the world economy. She's accused of having overseas tax-haven accounts. She won't raise taxes, just cut more jobs from teachers, firemen and police, and cut more benefits from education, poor people and the disabled. How many jobs and benefits would her millions of campaign dollars save? The woman forgot to vote for years, but now she is spending tons of money to buy your vote. Mine's not for sale.

Carly Fiorina is another very rich person who would buy your vote. She forgot to vote, too, but she'll spend to get elected. She was in a personal ethics mess when she was with Hewlett-Packard, but she's spending so we won't hold that against her. I will.

Don't forget Audra Strickland, the carpetbagger in search of another public office. She didn't qualify as treasurer, but didn't want to run against Foy. So, she moved and decided to smear Linda Parks with the help of relatives in the local Republican Party and campaign money from insurance companies and special interests, passed between Audra and her husband Tony.

Republicans brag how they will not raise taxes. No one wants his taxes raised, but the state suffers from a revenue shortfall. Higher taxes on tobacco products, alcohol, luxury homes/vehicles and high-cost items could reduce these continued cuts that are hurting people, particularly poor and disabled people. California is home to almost two-thirds of the country's millionaires. A tax on a yacht, mansion or Rolls Royce will not stop people from buying them. When is someone going to speak up for the people being hurt by these budget cuts?

Stuart Wing,
Moorpark

So let me see if I have this straight. The deputy sheriff's union has given Geoff Dean $70,000, and they don't want anything in return? This is the same union that endorses Jerry Brown for governor because he is such a big union supporter and recently stated that there was no need for pension reform in the state. Who is Dean kidding? He is just another politician bought by the union. We will see if Dean can buy the office of the sheriff.

Lucinda Morgan,
Santa Paula

Bruce Thomas currently serves on the Moorpark School Board and he is running to replace Peter Foy as supervisor. Bruce Thomas is an Ex-Marine officer who has shown he cares deeply about East Ventura County. Bruce will be a full-time supervisor, and he will make sure that Simi Valley, Moorpark and Somis receive their fair share of County Services.

Bruce has been recommended by the teachers associations in both Simi Valley and Moorpark. As a supervisor, Bruce Thomas will fight for his constituents and their children to make sure they are represented on the Ventura County Board of Supervisors. Please join me in voting for Bruce Thomas for Ventura County Supervisor on June 8 or by absentee ballot.

Ginny Jannotto,
Simi Valley

The Oxnard and Camarillo chambers of commerce recently stood alongside leadership from the California Chamber of Commerce to endorse Jeff Gorell, a candidate for the 37th Assembly District. We can think of no better community leader than Jeff Gorell to next represent us in the State Legislature.

Jeff Gorell is a local small business owner, adjunct lecturer at California Lutheran University and Naval reserve officer and veteran. He sits on the board of directors for the Camarillo Chamber. Jeff also has experience in Sacramento from the 1990s, having worked for former Gov. Pete Wilson in the Capitol and later representing businesses with the California Manufacturers Association.

The state and local chambers took the unusual step of endorsing Jeff so early in this election because we believe his commitment to improving the local economy and creating jobs is consistent with the mission of our organizations.

Now is the time for action. No more business-as-usual in Sacramento. Jeff has already developed a thoughtful plan to spark local jobs posted on his website at http://www.jeffgorell.org.

We are going to work hard to help Jeff get elected to the State Assembly because we believe he has the leadership and solution-oriented common sense to make a difference in Sacramento. Please join us in supporting his election to State Assembly.

Nancy Lindholm,
CEO, Oxnard Chamber of Commerce;
Rob Lapsley,
Vice President, California Chamber of Commerce;
Tom Kelley,
CEO of the Camarillo Chamber of Commerce

I've known Jim Dantona for years, and I recommend him for Ventura County Clerk/Recorder. Jim Dantona will make sure elections in Ventura County are fair and accurate and that votes are counted in a timely manner. He will also ensure our vital records are protected.

One of the reasons Jim Dantona has won the support of teachers and firefighters throughout Ventura County is because he understands that this office also should focus on voter outreach. Promoting citizens to register to vote is promoting democracy itself. I was disappointed to hear that Jim Dantona's opponent Mark Lunn does not think voter outreach is very important.

Please join Ventura County teachers and firefighters in voting for Jim Dantona for Ventura County Clerk/Recorder on June 8.

Arleigh Dean Kidd,
Simi Valley

The Fillmore chapter of Big Brothers/Big Sisters just had the most wonderful celebration dinner for its graduating seniors and their mentors at Alexander's Restaurant in the Four Points Sheraton Hotel near the Ventura Harbor.

Even with our limited budget we wanted to give these wonderful young adults an elegant experience to commemorate their accomplishments. Liz Patterson at Alexander's understood completely and created a warm and welcoming setting with all the trimmings. The service was lovely and the food was delicious. We are so grateful!

Valerie Rose Brinton,
Fillmore

Re: your May 13 article, "Sheriff candidates discuss mental illness"

We read with dismay the story you published about one of the debates between Geoff Dean and Dennis Carpenter. A two-part question was asked to the candidates; i.e. did you take the voluntary course which trained law enforcement personnel on how to deal with mentally challenged people, and how many deputies took it? Mr. Carpenter said he didn't take the classes and about half of the deputies did.

In September 1997, our son, Nicholas, gave someone a ride to a party in Ojai. In the course of leaving, he was attacked by a thug who hit him once on the head with a bat. A 911 call was made for a person with a head injury, and the deputies who responded botched their duties so badly that we feel they were largely responsible for our son's subsequent death. Instead of realizing that our son had a head injury that affected his coherence; they assumed he was drunk. They wrestled with Nick, sprayed pepper spray into his eyes and head wound, slammed his skull into the asphalt and beat his already injured head. Nick's autopsy showed he was clean and sober. All his organs and skin were accepted for transplant into needy people.

During depositions, we found out that none of those deputies had any training in dealing with mentally deficient folks. Had they been trained, they may have reacted very differently and could actually have been heroes since the Ojai hospital was only a half-mile away. Instead these deputies have Nick's blood on their hands.

We congratulate Dean for taking this training course and for feeling all deputies should. We, however, believe it should be mandatory. Geoff Dean is the person we will be voting for.

~ Ann and James Dowey,
Ventura

"The campaign for Ventura County Supervisor District 2 has been disgraceful, and my mail yesterday was the capper. I opened a sealed envelope to find a letterhead which reads Audra Strickland, Ventura County Supervisor District 2, as if this were coming from the office of someone who presently holds that office. Not true. It is a total misrepresentation, since the incumbent is presently Linda Parks.

This is an arrogant assumption on the part of the Strickland campaign, and it is counting its chickens before they are hatched. The body of the letter was the usual campaign rhetoric we have been hearing from the challenger and only at the bottom, in the "fine print" so to speak, is the statement, "Audra Strickland for Supervisor 2010." The letterhead should have either included "Candidate for" or left any reference to the office out altogether. A phone call to Strickland's office got me no understandable answer.

No doubt the timing of this mailing was meant to be close enough to the deadline for letters that none could be published calling attention to this mis-statement. I urge all who got this mailer to cast their vote for Linda Parks and put Audra out to pasture."

~ Bob Fitch,
Thousand Oaks

It is almost beyond belief that one receives fliers in his mailbox day after day, all lambasting Linda Parks. Does Audra Strickland really think she can get votes by saying little about why she deserves the vote but telling lie after lie and distorting facts taken out of context in her effort to bash Linda Parks?

Even if I didn't know Linda Parks to be the highly successful and helpful supervisor she is, I still could not vote for someone whose entire campaign is just an attack on the opposition. I prefer to vote for a candidate and not against one. Oh well, if Audra doesn't get elected to this post, she is sure to find some other office that interests her, and her husband will do the same. After all, they are both devout seekers of good-paying public offices, no matter what they may be.

~Alan N. Ringer,
Westlake Village

President Obama couldn't have stated it better, "Make no mistake, BP is operating at our direction."

Now it finally makes sense why stopping the flow of crude oil into the Gulf is taking so long.

The Star's editorial comments somewhat correlate to those of T. Boone Picken's. Let BP plug it and clean it. Stop government from calling those charged with fixing this mess to Capital Hill. First, solve the issue, then bring those responsible to town, and, finally, what about the 11 human lives that were lost?

Makes you wonder what's in our future when the government gets to direct healthcare reform instead of playing the public relations game with oil wells?

Fred Miller,
Simi Valley

I am addressing you today on an issue of great importance. The Sacramento establishment politicians have concocted a scheme to keep incumbents in power and remove competition from the ballot. This is a battle for the voice of freedom in California.

The measure I'm speaking of is Proposition 14, which will appear on the June 8 ballot. This is the spawn of a dirty backroom deal in which Abel Maldonado traded his vote so our taxes could be raised in exchange for this measure that would help shield him from the anger of the people for his betrayal. We cannot let this stand!

I ask that you vote no on Proposition 14 on June 8. Say no to this deceptive incumbent protection act. Let's stand together and do our part to save choice in California by stopping Proposition 14. Thank you for standing up for freedom in California. For more information go to http://freeandequal.org

Dana T. McLorn,
Oxnard

(The author of this letter is the Chairman of the Libertarian Party of Ventura county - Editor)

I suppose you could call my letter a "Tale of Two Cities," but that wouldn't be quite accurate.

On the one hand, I am supportive and endorse the incumbants, Mary Haffner, John Walker and Velma Lomax. Not only are they pro-teacher, pro-child and pro-district but they understand the current climate in which everyone wants to bash teachers and the public schools. They do not buy the theory that if you close "bad" schools, fire "bad" teachers, reward "good" teachers" with what is called merit pay, allow charter schools to replace all schools, and heavily penalize and punish school systems for lower test scores all will be well. No, they see the big picture involving better parenting classes and society taking a little more responsibility for what we allow our children to see and experience They see that these behaviors can greatly add to the professional development of all educators!

As regards the city of Ventura, I think it is time for a change, and while I "like" many of our current City Council members, how wonderful it would be to bring in some people who understand that a lot goes into running a city.successfully. I'm convinced that every person running or in office has their own interest in keeping the city as it is but financially looking out for the well-being of Ventura. Consequently, I support a little bit of the old, Ed Newman, and a lot of the new, Mike Tracy.

Ventura is too important to wander myopically into the future.

~ Chip Fraser,
Ventura,

One of the primary defining characteristics of being an American is the privilege of enjoying free choice in essentially all things. We assume, natutally, that having a variety of choices increases our ability to choose what/who we believe to be the best in a given contest.

Top Two would restrict our choices in the political arena, and for this simple but profoundly significant reason should be soundly rejected.

~David Harris,
Ventura

In one of our country's most important court decisions, Chief Justice John Marshall declared that "the power to tax involves the power to destroy." He was right, of course. Oppressive taxation can destroy jobs, small businesses, family budgets and economies large and small.

California has one of the worst tax environments in the nation. We are overtaxed at every level of government. Our current County Supervisor, Linda Parks, has voted again and again to raise our taxes. She campaigned for a $250 million increase to county sales taxes, voted to increase property taxes, car taxes, trash fees and supported the implementation of a massive universal, government-run healthcare system that would have raised taxes by epic proportions.

Audra Strickland, on the other hand, has a proven record of fighting against tax increases and has been endorsed by the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. Enough is enough. We need a Supervisor who will fight for the taxpayers of this county, so I'm voting for Audra Strickland.

Claira Guerra,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 25 article, " gardeners aim to build acceptance":

Thank you for your feature story informing your readers about the COLOR gardens project located in Old Town Ventura.

I offer COLOR Gardens congratulations for the wonderful work it is doing up there on Poli Street. COLOR Gardens is showing, by example, what is positive and possible. Its philanthropic and charitable endeavors are on display for the entire community to see and, hopefully, emulate. It is my opinion that COLOR Gardens is creating something new and wonderful. COLOR Gardens offers a much-needed new public face and facet to the dynamic Ventura County gay and lesbian community.

May every tomorrow bring to COLOR Gardens a new and better idea on how to display and share the joy, love and commitment to fairness that the Ventura County gay and lesbian community is capable of generating. I personally extend my gratitude and appreciation to COLOR Gardens for demonstrating how a culturally disparaged minority can peacefully reach out and positively affect an oppressive majority for the common good of both. COLOR Gardens leads through positive example. You have my thanks and my respect.

~ Harris D. Berger,
Oxnard

I really enjoyed the super articles relative to health coverage and the homeless on May 2nd, 1010. The authorsl, Tom Kisken and John Gonzales, did a tremendous job. The three-day series was very comprehensive. The article indicated that they "spent eight weeks reviewing data from local, state and national agencies."

Unless I missed something, no mention was made about the Salvation Army's Free Clinic in Oxnard, which has been seeing patients since 1993. This also includes a dental clinic. We have 18 volunteer doctors from Santa Paula, Ventura and Camarillo, representing most of the specialties as well as family practice. This has been expensive for the Salvation Army to run, and somewhere along the line, credit should be given to this magnicant organization for its free healthcare work.

John D. Broms, M.D.,
Salvation Army Free Clinic,
Oxnard

As a veteran, I cannot endorse Audra Strickland for County Supervisor, this is due to past experiences where I requested assistance from her office to have CalTrans re-install the Ventura County Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway sign that was removed during the widening of the South Bound 101 freeway and Highway 1 intersection in Oxnard.

In 2002, I worked with then-Assemblyman Tony Strickland, who introduced ACR 135, to erect four Vietnam Veteran Memorial signs along Highway 1 (PCH). I sent several emails to Ms. Strickland's office requesting her assistance in contacting CalTrans to locate and re-install the sign. I never received a response from Ms. Strickland's office, and finally contacted CalTrans myself.

In 2009 the sign once again came down. I contacted Ms. Strickland's office requesting assistance in having it re-installed, no response to my call from Strickland's office. A call was placed to Assemblyman Pedro Nava's office, which resulted in the memorial sign being reinstalled in 24 hours. If I can't get assistance from Strickland to re-install a memorial sign to those county veterans that paid the ultimate price, how is she going to respond to our county veterans and, more importantly, the County Veteran's Service office as a Supervisor? I don't want to take that chance.

Richard Camacho,
Camarillo

Let's see, Audra Strickland won't debate Linda Parks at the League of Women Voters, a neutral group that serves to offer voters the opportunity to see and hear the candidates and their responses to questions. Instead, she goes to a safe coffee campaign event in the home of her supporter, Rick Lemmo, an executive for shopping center Caruso Affiliated, the group responsible for the money-losing Lakes shopping center in Thousand Oaks.

Linda Parks issued a challenge for a debate before the June 8 election. Ms. Strickland says Ok, but she wants the moderator to be her supporter, Rick Lemmo. Ms. Parks suggested five neutral moderators, among them the League of Women Voters and the American Association of University Women. Ms. Strickland says no, the only moderator acceptable to her is her supporter, Rick Lemmo and then states that Ms. Parks reneged, broke her promise and can't be trusted.

Ms. Strickland, you're so used to playing games and making untruthful and misleading accusations, but it's clear to everyone that you are the person reneging and breaking promises (you did initially agree to attend the League's debate) and you are the one who tries to change the rules and can't be trusted. Judging by your actions, the message is clear that you are afraid to debate Ms. Parks.

Lydia Kaplan,
Oxnard

I have been entertained by the articles about Audra Strickland. Her supporters are vague. There is not one thing she has accomplished except talk about nothing. With so many failures in her search for a government job, aren't you a little concern?

I am a volunteer for the Prison Hospital Action Committee (PHAC). During our campaign to stop the prison hospital from being built Audra Strickland attended a couple meetings and then claimed she stopped the prison from being built.

She approached our Board of Directors requesting a merger with her and transfer of all our donated funds to her. The Board turned her down. She quickly formed a nonprofit group called "Taxpayers for a Safe Ventura County" in a few days. It took PHAC months to form our grass roots organization. When we checked on our 501c3 status with the state, we asked why "Taxpayers for a Safe Ventura County" received its nonprofit status so quickly. There was no filing for "Taxpayers for a Safe Ventura County." We were informed that Audra Strickland holds a 501c3 status, but under a different name. I wonder if she knows it is against the law to deposit funds into a 501c3 with a different name. Maybe she thinks a 501c3 is really a general funding account.

I am relieved she did not qualify for the county treasurer position, and she does not qualify for the supervisor position either.
Come on Thousand Oaks, etc. open your eyes. Vote for Linda Parks.

Gail Gower,
Camarillo

Re May 25 article, ""Relocating to run for office up for debate"":

The front-page article by Kathleen Wilson is unbalanced to the extent that it serves as a promotional piece for Audra Strickland. Specifically:

• There are two photos of Audra Strickland and none of Linda Parks.
  
• Mrs. Strickland's position dominates the article with 107 lines of text. Only 44 lines present arguments of Linda Parks and her supporters. Quotation space is weighted in favor of Strickland (20 lines) and supporters of her position (12 lines); far less space is allowed for the words of Parks (11 lines) and those with views supporting her (6 lines).


• On page 2 the article exaggerates its credibility with the heading "Analysts doubt residence a factor" and the expression "experts say... ," while in fact the article quotes only one "expert" (Mike Shires of Pepperdine) on this topic.


• It is unnecessary to state Mrs. Strickland's assembly service twice. It is also unnecessary and irrelevant to speculate on her long-term motives (26 lines). This amounts to free publicity.


• The article mentions endorsements only for Strickland. Parks has endorsements, too.


• The final two paragraphs of the article completely digress from its stated subject. The comment that a candidate who runs for various positions is motivated to "do public service" has no logical purpose other than as an attempt to shore up the image of Mrs. Strickland. This is a classic marketing ploy. A desire for public service is as likely to be motivating for those who remain in the same office as for those who jump around.

Janet A. Shoshitaishvili,
Thousand Oaks

Before voting, I research issues and candidate''s records. I vote for the candidate that best fits with my own beliefs and ideology. It is very time consuming and difficult to find the truth.

Audra Strickland represents Ventura County's Supervisorial District 2 in the California Assembly. So, the Parks campaign should stop screaming "carpetbagger." It is patently disingenuous to say that someone representing us at a state level is out of touch at the local level. Parks would have us believe that the nine miles from Moorpark to Thousand Oaks equates to the distance from Arkansas to New York, or Sacramento to Oakland.

Parks' literature screams "gridlock in Sacramento!" Logically, if Parks is against gridlock but is blaming Audra, it must follow that Parks favored continued tax increases and spending as championed by the Democrat controlled Assembly. Subsequent events have clearly justified Audra's brave stand against uncontrolled spending and ever increasing taxes.

Researching Parks' record was very difficult. The tone of the Parks website is far beneath the dignity and maturity of a person who would govern more than three quarters of a million people and control a county budget of $1.7 billion. Missing is any coherent, organized, affirmation or statement of core beliefs and immutable values. Replacing "issues" is a page of juvenile "did you hear what she said?" wounded pleas of a caliber usually confined to an all-girls school cafeteria. If it were not for Audra's candidacy, would we know anything about where Linda Parks stands?

William Burke,
Thousand Oaks

I find it morbidly curious and odd that Assembly District 35 candidate Das Williams' supporters up in Santa Barbara are complaining that Susan Jordan would seize on a big difference between the two candidates and highlight it in her mailers. It's disturbingly redundant and uncomfortable to be reminded of his pro drilling stance.

Williams supported the first new offshore oil drilling in state waters in 41 years even after the tradeoff the Santa Barbara environmental groups made with the oil company was ruled by legal experts to be unenforceable. Jordan didn't.

Unhappy that his buddies didn't get their way, Williams jumped into the race and challenged somebody he had said he would support.

With the unimaginable devastation going on down in the Gulf, who could blame Susan Jordan for pointing out that offshore oil drilling remains a risky business? Nobody I know. Thanks for the reminder !

Suz Montgomery,
Ventura

Benjamin Franklin once wrote that, "Nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes." In Ventura County, however, there is another certainty - Linda Parks' support for tax increases. Parks campaigned for a $250 million increase to the Ventura County sales tax. She voted to raise car and property transfer taxes. She also voted to increase trash fees. She supported the implementation of an ObamaCare-style, government-run healthcare system that would surely have imposed devastating new taxes on Californians.

She claims to be a friend to taxpayers, but with friends like this, who needs enemies? Audra Strickland, on the other hand, understands that we are taxed enough already. The problem with our government is not that it taxes too little, but that it spends too much and does not spend wisely. That's
why I'll be voting for Strickland on June 8.

Bob A. Brooks,
Thousand Oaks

I will admit I do not follow politics closely and have not yet done the research necessary to decide which County Supervisor I will vote for. However, I am so annoyed at the daily inundation of negative material I receive from the Strickland camp that I know for certain I will not vote for her. Anyone who stoops so low as she has and demonstrates such a waste of resources cannot possibly be an asset to our community. Every day I walk directly from my mailbox to the trash can, and I can only imagine others are sick of it too.

Linda Tommela,
Thousand Oaks

Public thanks to Susan Jordan for her wisdom and leadership, demonstrated again -- it took courage to disagree with environmental groups she formerly led and worked with.

From experience, she knows the oil drilling agreement with PXP Co. could not be enforced and is not in the best interest of Oxnard, Ventura and Santa Barbara. Susan also knows that such backroom dealings, without public input and without credible safety measures, will jeopardize the health and well-being of the California coastline.

Voters in the 35th Assembly District have already experienced Susan's leadership, her integrity and effective communication with people she works with, not allowing special interests to interfere with her decisions. I remember when BHP Billiton, the largest mining company in the world, invited Susan and other California leaders to Australia to view the LNG project they were planning to implement in Oxnard. After the sales pitch, Susan had the courage to tell them the project would not receive community approval. Susan proved to be correct.

The people of Oxnard have worked long and hard to build a quality living community. We need Susan's leadership and integrity to represent us in Sacramento. In contrast, Das Williams, also a candidate for the 35th Assembly District, has not openly clarified how he can honestly say he supports PXP's Oil Drilling and also call for a moratorium on oil drilling. It seems like double talk to me, which does not serve the best interest of consumers or businesses.

Vote for Susan Jordan, a voice we can trust.

Lupe Anguiano,
Oxnard

As a member of the Ventura County Board of Education, I can attest to Audra Strickland's commitment to making education a priority in this state. As a well-respected middle school teacher, she was appointed to serve on the Ventura County Board of Education. Additionally, she has never voted to cut education spending at any point in her legislative career. To the contrary, she has supported prioritizing education as being funded first and completely. She has always been very accessible and willing to listen to parents, educators and school board members regarding educational priorities. Audra Strickland has been a dedicated public servant for the past six years, and I would encourage District 2 residents to vote for her on June 8.

Dean Kunicki,
Simi Valley

Is it the truth?
Is it Fair to all concerned?
Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Recently, judging by their actions in trying to rig a debate between Linda Parks and Audra Strickland, it appears that some of my fellow Thousand Oaks Rotarians have lost sight of the Four-Way Test.

I'm voting for Linda Parks.

~ Jeffrey Arnold Borenstein,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 8 editorial, "Policy goes too far":

I have looked at the Editorial page with the library complaints regarding Foster library in Ventura. A personal account by me is as follows: the magazine section has been reduced by 80 percent. Up to three of the available eight chairs can be occupied by street people (could they crash somewhere else?). The noise from the toilets is unbearable (I thought construction was being done). Cellphone use is widespread despite signs, and I witnessed several angry verbal exchanges. The new books section is a joke. I peeped into the upstairs (for children only) and it was almost deserted.

Bottom line: very little makes sense: there is no input allowed by the public, poor control of the facility and poor planning. Would the county and city get together a public forum so that we can tell them what to do with our money? The situation seems hopeless.

Godfrey Smythe,
Ventura

The resident (intentional spelling), Obama, is fishing for political capital by sending 1,200 National Guard troops to Arizona. Patriotic Americans are way too smart to buy the hype and the deception. My first point is that this token amount is too few to be of significance. The second point is that, since they are not carrying loaded weapons on patrol, they are not being sent to protect the border. Not to denigrate the patriot guardsmen, but clerks are not the answer. We need combat infantry on the border, carrying and authorized to use loaded weapons, acting under nonambiguous rules of engagement, protecting them from lawsuits by the ACLU or La Raza.

We need to take back this country. The resident doesn't care. He's more interested in the Hispanic vote.

~ Bill Gourlay,
Westlake Village

The school board's plan to drop the employees' spouses from the medical insurance plans offered through the district as of July 1 is, at the very least, discriminatory. Any spouse that has insurance available to them from their place of employment that costs less than $250 per month will be dropped. The spouses that are unemployed, don't have insurance offered though their employer will continue to be covered under the district plans.

I'm sure the school board will tell you they are being kind and generous by continuing the insurance coverage on these spouses, while only cutting off those who can get insurance elsewhere. I don't think those who are being dropped would agree.

Why was there no discussion with the members? Why didn't the district look at the insurance plans offered and its relative cost and then look for alternatives such as employees paying a reduced rate for spouse coverage as other districts have? I know we all have to cut costs during these difficult times, but even as the economy recovers, we know we will not get back the take-aways. Jobs have been lost, pay has been cut and now they want to cut off the insurance. Enough is enough. It's time to stand up and say no.

~Marilou Weiss,
Simi Valley

Re: May 24 article, "Pals defying the odds":

I was so happy to read about Carlos Aldrete, Francisco Mavarrete, Aaron Cruz and Bryant Jones and their wonderful news of being accepted to top universities. I wish them all the best professors, dorms and education in their great endeavor to be successful scholars.

~ Gail Metcalf,
Camarillo

There is, or at least there should be, an old Chinese saying, "beware of the grasshopper, for she neither pollinates nor fertilizes but, as a locust, seeks only opportunity and leaves behind only devastation."

I cannot imagine a better analogy than the above for Ms. Strickland's frantic, devious and (when it comes to fundraising) perhaps illegal machinations to maintain a slot, any slot, at the public trough. This sad performance can only be viewed as an insult to our intelligence. and that is exactly the point. Ms. Strickland and her special interest backers don't think that we are very intelligent. They are intent on bringing their ruinous, self-serving Sacramento style of governance to our county. Pursuant to that goal, they are spending millions to place their malleable minion, Ms. Strickland, into a position that will facilitate a very large return on their significant investment.

So, before you vote, please, consider the following questions:

• Who is paying for this daily blitzkrieg of negative attack ads on Linda Parks?


• What are they expecting in return (the answers lie in their names)?


• Why is Ms. Strickland not using these millions to trumpet her oft-touted, albeit ephemeral, achievements after her many years in public office?

Soon after the Prop 16 "Vote Yes" ads started appearing on TV, I wondered why it was necessary. I have drawn this conclusion. Since governments are not likely to try to buy/form a new utility company, then this proposition must be supported from the other side of the fence, the utility companies!

I look at it this way, the electrical companies are probably behind the whole thing. I'd bet they are putting up the money for all of these TV ads. If they can get this bill passed, there will be no competition, or even a threat of competition, for them. They will be free to do what they wish and have a monopoly on electricity for all of us!

It would be impossible to ever get two-thirds of the voters to pass a bill to let local governments form a company. However, a simple majority "might" be able to pass a bill and take over electrical use if the big guys ever really held us up.

I think I would rather leave things alone and know that the people could take over the utility if the major electrical providers got out of hand!

I think it is a power grab by Edison and other large providers to eliminate the possibility of any competition. I believe I will vote no on Prop 16. It sounds good until you look at it and
start asking questions.

~ Marie Wren,
Fillmore

Today, I drove around Pierpont Elementary School. There is sand everywhere. At some points, you cannot park at the curb. It seems an issue of safety for our children if they are unable to cross the street safely. I think the members of the City Council should take a field trip and see for themselves what it looks like down here. Really, there must be a way to take care of this. How about we play nice by using our words and working together.

~ Kathleen Koenig,
Ventura

Arizona should be given a chance to see if its laws do stop illegal immigration.

When you hear politicians from states other than Arizona trying to stop Arizona from implementing its new laws, ask yourself why do they oppose these laws being implemented?

Is it because if Arizona solves its illegal immigration problem many illegal immigrants will leave Arizona for other states making their problem worse?

~ David J. Ameling,
Newbury Park

I recently received a mailer from Jim Dantona, a candidate for Ventura County Clerk and Recorder, which contained a slurry of negative comments about his opponent, Mark Lunn.

While Dantona failed to share a single talking point about policy issues, he continuingly railed against Lunn with personal attacks. Dantona's style of negative campaigning revealed the following:

He failed to acknowledge (or respect) the commendable public service record of his opponent. Lunn served under President Ronald Reagan, the state of California as a chief of the Highway Patrol, and too-numerous-to-name countywide successes in both government and private sector endeavors.

He failed to demonstrate (or clarify) any views, policy recommendations, understanding, solutions or action plans if elected. Dantona leads one to believe that he has no viable plan for the office he seeks, or, is merely abstaining from comment on the issues so as to avoid public scrutiny, counterpoint in the press or challenges from Lunn.

Lastly, Dantona's comment about "tax-grabbing politicians" slurs a great many public servants in this county who serve our interests to the best of their ability.

It becomes clearer, thanks to mailers like these from Dantona, that the county of Ventura needs positive leadership and understanding of government's role in serving the public's needs.

Dantona should know that we simply don't need another complainer who won't work well with others, and at this point, has nothing better to contribute than sniping at his current opponent.

~ Rick Conrad,
Oxnard

On June 8, the voters of Ventura County have an important role in selecting representatives for various elective offices. Seeing that we have the privilege and duty of selecting a panel of honorable judges for the Superior Court, in particular, office No. 1 is very important to me. I am asking the voters to consider Lela Henke-Dobroth for Superior Court judge.

Henke-Dobroth brings a wealth of experience in many aspects of her legal career.

• 29 years of legal experience.


• 23 years as a prosecutor with the Ventura County District attorney.


• 9 years as Chief Deputy District Attorney to former District Attorney, Michael D. Bradbury.


• 6 years experience in private practice: Civil litigation, Family Law, restraining orders and Pro-Bono Legal assistance.


• Key prosecutor of People vs. Diana Haun and Michael Dally case (kidnap from Target store and the murder of Sheri Dally).


• Key prosecutor of People vs. Vincent Sanchez ( "The Simi Valley Rapist").

Experience and trust matter: Lela Henke-Dobroth for Superior Court Judge.

~ Brian N. Sipes,
Fillmore

Re: May 25 article, "Moderator dispute unlikely to halt Parks, Strickland debate":

Am quite sure the Ventura County Star will arrange for equal space and depth for Linda Parks.

~ Elinor Gustafson,
Thousand Oaks

Recent letters in The Star, as well as actions by this administration, reveal how the Democrats are no longer pretending to be free-market advocates. In the financial regulation bill, any financial institution that does not go along with the Obama agenda could be "redistributed" or taken over without judicial or Congressional review. Despite the Supreme Court stating the Internet is not to be regulated by the government, Obama's team has declared the Internet a public utility, therefore subject to interference. Freedoms are being stripped from this country's safeguards by the president, beyond the capacity allowed by the Constitution. This is the same pattern of transformation in Latin American dictatorships. It is a betrayal of our country and its citizens.

The entire progressive/socialist philosophy does not believe in personal or parental responsibility and promotes governmental control over every citizen. If progressives want to eliminate childhood obesity, why not encourage parents and communities to spend time with their children, be involved in their after-school sports and activities, and promote responsibility instead of handing over the upbringing of their children to government bureaucrats?

The Star wrote a large piece about a meeting of educators who want to change schools and do away with testing and competition, while noting that there were only six attendees. These are the very people who have been tainting our schools with anti-American propaganda, and proselytizing redistribution of wealth instead of hard work, achievement and personal responsibility. The divisive left wing and this administration are tearing this country apart, and I pray with all my heart the American people stop this soon.

~ Patti Chiarelli,
Thousand Oaks,

Audra Strickland must think she can win in a mudslide.

~ Paul Nicholson
Thousand Oaks

I wanted to write you a letter about the very deceptive advertising that is being put forward and paid for by the big power companies.

The current political advertising on Proposition 16 is shameful in its' deception of the real purpose of this ballot measure, which is solely to make it very difficult for public agencies to produce and provide power to the public. This will only keep power prices high, stifle innovation and hinder competition to the existing power companies.

This proposition, if passed, would require any public agency to hold a costly election that must be paid for by that agency and that would need a two-thirds majority vote. This is a very high threshold to cross, and few election measures of any type can muster a two-thirds majority vote.

As an example of what would require an election with a two-thirds majority vote, look at the award-winning Ventura Regional Sanitation District's Bio-gas Electric Generation Facility at the Toland Landfill. This facility produces all the power needed to run the landfill's operations, plus an additional 10 million kilowatt hours for the grid from landfill gas that would previously have been flared into the atmosphere.

Proposition 16 would make it extremely difficult for these types of civic innovations that lessen dependence on foreign oil and in production of alternative energy.

Paul Callaway,
Ventura

Re: Michael J. Smith's May 25 letter to the editor, "Judge's campaign":

Could Mr. Michael J. Smith, Esq., give just one example of why Attorney Robert Taylor is unqualified to serve as a judge? Other than the fact that he has not been appointed (anointed) by the club. Robert Taylor has a track record as a competent and fair attorney and is a Ventura County resident, who we need not fetch from lands afar to do their job.

If Mr. Smith, Esq., could just give one example of why Robert Taylor is unqualified and an example of why Conroy is exceptionally well qualified, his evaluation may earn some merit. It is very easy to evaluate when you are anonymous and biased.

~Tom Blattel,
Camarillo

Re: Timm Herdt's May 21 article, "Prop. 17 promises insurance discounts":

Kudos to Timm Herdt for highlighting the benefits of Prop. 17 for Star readers.

However, too much of Mr. Herdt's article gives weight to the consumerists point of view.

To clarify, the consumerists want the insurance marketplace, through their much-treasured Prop. 103, to be completely level in premium terms.

They want premiums the same for Barstow and Downtown Los Angeles, Riverside and Redding. They believe premiums should be the same if you've been continuously insured for 30 years, or if you break the mandatory insurance laws for years on end. That doesn't matter one bit to them.

Since Prop. 103 passed, there have been several implementations. Part of the result is that insurance companies cannot give discounts for a variety of things, such as for being continuously insured. Some insurance companies like Mercury would like to award a discount for that, but it's not currently permitted under Prop. 103 (much to the consumerists delight).

By the way, Insurance companies do not get sued for miscalculating someone's premium. They get fined for the action, and they receive help from the Department of Insurance so they don't make that mistake again. The customer would receive a full refund for any error made in premium calculation.

Insurance companies like to provide targeted discounts to deserving customers. The companies that do it gain a competitive edge. They do not believe everyone should have the same premium, especially those who choose to break our mandatory insurance law.

This is a common-sense improvement to Prop. 103 implementation. Don't let the consumerists win out and require everyone to have the same premium. Pass Prop. 17

~Mike Vrchota,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 21 editorial, "Prop. 14: yes Prop. 15: no":

You may think that it is grossly unfair of the authors of Prop15 (The California Fair Elections Act) to charge employers of paid lobbyists (as well as the paid lobbyists themselves) a $350 annual fee to fund the Fair Elections Campaign Fund. I strongly disagree.

First, notice that everyone who wishes may, without charge, lobby their representatives in state government. That applies to individual citizens and groups such as those you listed. They can send representatives to lobby at no charge by the state. (Of course, if a group or corporation should choose to send an employee, they might have to pay for that person's time.)

If you are a paid lobbyist, meaning you are a lawyer charging clients several hundred dollars per hour or if you hire such a lobbyist, then you will have to pay the fee. A fee is not a tax. It is a charge in exchange for a service - in this case, the registration and supervision of paid lobbyists.

Any paid lobbyist will have to work for, perhaps, an extra hour a year to afford this fee. Those who employ paid lobbyists will have to pay the equivalent of an extra hour of that person's time. This is a trivial cost of doing business. Please notice that in sharp contrast to the list you provided, most organizations that hire paid lobbyists are profit-making corporations.

A tax applies to a class of people independent of whether or not they use the state services being paid for. A fee is only levied on folks who use a service. That's a big difference.

Finally, look at what that money's use. It will pay the campaign costs of candidates for Secretary of State. This means any candidate who actually wins the office will know that he or she owes no special interest any favors. That means we'll have a Secretary of State who looks out for our interests as voters and citizens.

It seems only fair to levy a fee on those who flood Sacramento with special interest dollars to undo some of the damage they have wrought.

~ John M. Goodman,
Garden Grove

I retired from the Ventura County Sheriff's Department after serving for more than 34 years, including eight years as a chief deputy. I have known both Geoff Dean and Dennis Carpenter for about 30 years. I am also privileged to call them both my friends.

I have mentored both professionally and was their direct supervisor/commanding officer several times during my tenure. I am intimately familiar with their respective professional qualifications, strengths and personal traits.

I was administratively responsible for the entire Sheriff's Department budget for five years. Dean's six years of experience as a chief deputy, including four years of administrative control of a budget of more than $200 million, are invaluable in preparing to lead the Sheriff's Department through the difficult fiscal years ahead.

Like former Sheriffs John Gillespie and Larry Carpenter, Geoff Dean is a progressive law enforcement professional who strives to move the department forward through community outreach, technology, innovation and collaborative law enforcement partnerships.

Dean is a highly qualified candidate for Sheriff. His combination of education, fiscal and operational experience, and participation in his community are unmatched by any member of the sheriff's current command staff. He has attained professional expertise, recognition and formal education that includes two masters degrees and graduation from California's prestigious POST Command College.

The Sheriff's Department needs a leader it can follow. Geoff Dean is the most qualified candidate for Sheriff and deserves your vote. Join me in voting Geoff Dean for Sheriff of Ventura County

~Richard Rodriguez,
Chief Deputy, retired,
Ventura County Sheriff's Department,
Oxnard

Our family has just seen the final performance of "Camelot" at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center (having also seen the same show at its opening), and we continue to be amazed at the talent and presentation of this production. The show's choreography has been wonderfully arranged, especially that of the knights' jousting scene. Fred Helsel is obviously a wonderfully talented director. What was a brilliant, funny, and moving performance in its opening performance, had obviously been polished like a fine gem by its closing. The orchestra, led by Gary Poirot, augments the songs beautifully and with perfect balance. What these talented performers and technicians have accomplished with a minimum of personnel, scenery and stage area is just astonishing.

We have been fortunate to have seen other productions - "Children of Eden," "My Fair Lady" and "Always, Patsy Cline" among many others over the years. All of them have just been outstanding and continually get better and better! The citizens of Simi Valley are very fortunate to have a theatrical/musical venue such as the Cultural Arts Center on Los Angeles Avenue, with such brilliant leaders and talented performers. I encourage everyone to go see these great productions, as I can't say enough good things about the productions we have seen there. Why spend the time and money to travel to downtown Los Angeles, when we have such first-rate entertainment within a 10-minute drive? I urge everyone who enjoys good theater to try our local venue. There isn't a bad seat in the house!!

~ Kay Morgan,
Simi Valley

I am writing this letter to share my personal experiences and thoughts about Ryan Wright, the best candidate for Ventura County Superior Court Judge.

I first met Ryan in 2003, when I was a narcotics detective and he was assigned as a prosecutor to the District Attorney's narcotics unit. I quickly learned he has a tremendous work ethic and was always available to assist with an investigation, no matter the time of day or the day of the week. Ryan was always eager to observe how we did our job so that he could better do his job and make the right decision based on all of the facts.

During these interactions, whether he was reviewing a case, preparing for court or trying a case in court, I found Ryan to be fair and impartial. He would not overlook the smallest of details, regardless of whether or not that detail would benefit his case or the defense's case. Ryan is an even-tempered individual who has displayed a passion for justice while vigorously prosecuting narcotics offenders. He stays current with ever-changing case law and shares that knowledge.

Over the years, Ryan has become the senior prosecutor in the narcotics unit. He has gained the trust and respect of the law enforcement community and developed into the go-to prosecutor in regard to major narcotics cases. I believe he possesses the qualities and experience to be an excellent Judge, and I ask you to join me in voting for Ryan Wright.

~ Greg Hebert,
Simi Valley

(The author is the president of the Oxnard Peace Officer's Association - Editor)

The Ventura City Council will hold a public forum on next year's budget at 6 p.m. Wednesday May 26, at Citrus Glen School. One proposal being discussed is to close Fire Station 4 on the east end.

If approved, this closure will not only affect the east end but the entire city. If there is a call in the east end, the fire engine in your neighborhood may be the one tasked to respond or may be moved to cover another station, creating a domino affect whereby engines are moving all over town leaving coverage spread thin. If you need help, hope there is an engine near you when you call 911.

Some say this is a worse case scenario, it's not. Think about this. Ventura has gotten so busy in the last couple of years that a fourth AMR paramedic ambulance was stationed in the city. Even with this extra help, ambulances from Camarillo are still called to assist in Ventura. I have heard of ambulances responding to medical calls in our city from as far away as Central Avenue and the 101. My point is that we cannot count on a paramedic ambulance arriving quickly to provide needed medical care if the paramedic engine has an extended response time.

This proposal can also affect your homeowners insurance. Insurance companies look at a cities' ISO rating when determining insurance rates. The higher the rate, the more risk. If the closure of Station 4 causes Ventura's ISO rating to go up so might insurance premiums.

Show up and tell the City Council that the protection of lives and property need to come first, we can't expect other agencies to provide city services, and that it is unacceptable for our insurance rates to rise.

~ Christopher Slane,
Ventura

I have known Lela Henke-Dobroth for 17 years and was fortunate enough to have worked with her in the Ventura County District Attorney's Office where she faithfully served as Chief Deputy, among other illustrious titles and chairsmanships. As her volumes of experience have been well publicized in recent letters to the editor, I feel compelled only to mention why I personally believe she is the best person to preside as Superior Court judge.

While working with her behind the scenes, I was able to witness first hand her passion for the rights of victims as well as her ability to keep a contemplative, open mind while judiciously weighing all facts from a disciplined and objective point of view. This ardor for justice held fast throughout her 25 year tenure in the prosecutor's office and continued on during her time as a defense attorney here in Ventura County. In her pervasive career serving our county, she has wielded both flanks of the judicial system with skill and benevolence.

Based on Lela's resume, character and flawless integrity, I firmly believe she is the most enlightened choice and perfect fit for Superior Court judge. This is the person who knows the tug-of-war between case backlogs and tight resources. This is the person who has devoted her life to protecting us and our children.

~ Eric Allison,
Ventura

The Ventura County Republican Central Committee is attempting to convert the nonpartisan County Supervisors' office to a partisan position. They recruited a candidate who rented an apartment in the 2nd District to be eligible to run and are conducting a highly partisan campaign. We have partisan gridlock in Washington and partisan gridlock in Sacramento. We don't need partisan gridlock in Ventura.

~ Riley Neel,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 23 article, "Whether to walk away":

So homeowner, Joseph Shull, who has good credit and makes good money - certainly enough to cover his payment - seeks a strategic default on his home so he can pull up stakes and be able to retire in beautiful Oregon or Northern California?

Someone like Shull, who makes an ill-timed real estate investment - he bought at the height of the market - should not be allowed to welch on his payment just because he finds himself upside down and wants to walk away.

Where is Shull's sense of financial responsibility? Are we going to blame everything on the banks? Not every real estate investment is guaranteed to make money. Just because it's a person's home (and not an investment property) that is worth less than is owed doesn't mean that person should get a free pass.

Take ownership people. If you can still afford to make your house payment, then do it. The rest of us are getting tired of bailing you out.

~ John Edwards,
Newbury Park

Sometimes we grow to soon old and too late smart. It seems that we are in a quandary as to how to handle illegals, and it seems to come down to give them the USA.

I do not care what else they maybe called they are Illegal. They demand amnesty. They say we are profiling. How did they come to that conclusion? What is crossing our South border? Polar Bears? I mean come on.

Also out of the 13 or 15 million illegals seeking amnesty, how many might be part of the drug cartels or have some illnesses that we do not know of? I see a problem here.
One big problem is that they are already dividing us by state; California fighting Arizona.

Goodbye United States of America!

~ Russell E. Spencer, Sr.,
Simi Valley

How many border agents must be killed before we have sufficient outrage to enforce our laws. The people of Arizona are the focus of drug trafficking and smuggling. I called the Mexican Consulate to obtain the following information.

I can go to Mexico as a tourist for only 180 days; after that I must leave the country and return to the U.S. I cannot work in Mexico for even one day without a work permit. I need a letter from the Mexican company hiring me before I can get a work permit. A Mexican company that wants to hire me would have to prove that I am not taking the job of a Mexican national who could do the work. Without a work permit, I cannot get a bank account, own property or have any benefits.

Working in Mexico without a permit is a misdemeanor for the first offense and a felony for the second offense. Felonies are punished by imprisonment in Mexico. Let us stop the politics and demand the President enforce the existing laws on immigration.

~ John Ferritto
Ventura

I would like to briefly state why I support Audra Strickland for County Supervisor.

Over the years, we have all witnessed uncontrolled spending in Sacramento, which has dragged the state down near brink of insolvency. The misguided trend has been to spend, and when the budget needs fixing, then to increase taxing. This is an extremely negative approach to governing. I don't particularly like negative campaigning, but I am much more concerned about negative political decisions to spend and tax beyond reason.

As an Assemblywoman Strickland fought valiantly to curtail wasteful spending and against tax increases. She represents a tough well-reasoned position for controlling spending and either maintaining current tax formulas, or when appropriate, cutting certain taxes. The State is already infamous for its unfriendly environment toward business, and is rapidly becoming infamous for its unfriendly environment toward stressed families and the downtrodden taxpayer.

Spending and taxing at the local level, the county, mirrors the state in many respects. Linda Parks, Strickland's rival for supervisor, has a long history of spending county money unwisely and often frivolously. Strickland represents a much needed course correction - a tightening of the county purse strings! Now is a time to strengthen the local economy by streamlining County Government. I am very confident that Strickland will do just that!

Finally, I have read and heard about Strickland's outreach to noble community organizations and see in her a balanced, community-focused approach to leadership that we sorely need these days.

~ George Peate,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 23 article, "Arizona tourism's loss by be local gain":

The article claims that the new Arizona law may result in loss of Arizona tourism's and be a local gain for Venura County and Southern California. I believe that Arizona may soon be the only state in the Union where one can vacation and can feel relatively safe and secure from the intrusion of immigrants, drugs and crime that are daily penetrating our southern border. Soon, Arizona may not be able to handle the the mass of tourists swarming to its state where their safety can be assured and "English" is spoken again."

The only thing California has to gain is a mass invasion of undocumented workers from Arizona to a state that is technically bankrupt and that already has a 12.4 percent unemployment rate and the fifth highest number of unemployed workers in the nation. California can already boast the largest number of undocumented workers and illegal immigrants in the nation. The Arizona law is about to make certain that California retains that dubious honor. Conversely, this law may cause the largest transfer of crime from one state to another in history.

I hope that the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in Ventura has enough rooms to accommodate the mass exodus of undocumented tourist's from Arizona to California.
Let history record what Gov. Jan Brewer's courageous new immigration law has done for America. It won't be about tourism.

Robert Wilson,
Santa Rosa Valley

With Democrats having firm control in California's legislature, I often hear that "we need more balance in Sacramento." I think most would agree with that assessment. Here in Ventura County, we are represented by five County Supervisors. Three are Democrats, one is a Republican who used to be a Democrat and still votes with and supports Democrats,
and one is a conservative Republican. If for nothing but the sake of balance, we need Audra Strickland on the Board. In a state run into the ground by left-wing policy and legislation, let's not get fooled. Audra Strickland is a sure thing.

~ Mary McClenning,
Oxnard

The people of California registered their mandate by passing the Victims' Bill of Rights Act of 2008. The act, most often described as Marsy's Law, declared rights for victims in our criminal justice system. New law can only declare rights; it cannot deliver them. History has shown that only through the efforts of individuals are rights delivered. How the rights of crime victims will be delivered in Ventura County is one reason to learn more about the candidates running for the Ventura County Superior Court.

I have no reason to speak against any candidate, but I do have reason to speak in favor of one: Lela Henke-Dobroth.

I have know Lela Henke-Dobroth professionally and personally for 10 years. I reported to her during the time she supervised the General Criminal Division for the District Attorney's Office. I also worked closely with here as she prosecuted a multiple-victim rape and homicide trial.

I believe Lela Henke-Dobroth would be a judge that would work to capture the full spirit and intention of Marsy's Law. In word and deed, I believe she would respect the dignity of victims and firmly enforce their hard-won rights.

Promoting victims' rights is no longer a question of legislation because the issue has been throughly legislated. Today, promoting victims' rights is a question of electing individuals who will work to achieve the ideals expressed in California's Victims' Bill of Rights. I believe Lela Henke-Dobroth is such and individual.

Catherine M. Duggan,
Oak Park

As a lifelong Democrat, I was surprised to find a flyer for Jim Dantona in my mailbox, as part of a slate mailer from the Ventura Democratic Party.

Jim Dantona is a professional lobbyist, who counts Waste Management Inc. among his clients. He has no history of public service, and yet claims he will be effective as the County Clerk Recorder. He is running for office at a time when Waste Management is trying to triple the size of the Simi Valley Landfill, which if approved, would make the Simi Valley Landfill the second biggest dump in the United States.

In contrast, the Republican on the tickets is Mark Lunn, a former chief with the California Highway Patrol, who has spent years working for the public, most of them here in Ventura County.

This year, I'm voting Republican, for Mark Lunn. I am saddened that the Democrats can't find a better candidate to put on the ticket than Dantona, a man that exemplifies what is wrong with the political system.

Kate M. Neiswender,
Ojai

I would like to give a great big thanks to the beautiful honest person who found my purse in the parking lot of C.V.S. Pharmacy on Arneill Road in Camarillo on April 22.

I have been under great stress since my husband has been hospitalized for the past seven days. Imagine arriving home in Santa Paula and finding my purse missing.

Thanks also to the manager of C.V.S. for holding the purse for me.

Beautiful persons, my prayers are always with you.

Maggie Cervantes,
Santa Paula

Kudos to The Star for printing two excellent columns in the May 8 edition. One, "Crushed by the news cycle, by Dale McFetters and the other, "Crossing into harsh territory," by Reg Henry.

Thank you.

Joseph Kobylak,
Camarillo

Re: April 15 article, "Simi clinic to host 'meet and greet' fundraiser":

Jeanne M. Brown wrote an article about the Simi Valley Free Clinic - very nice photos and story. In this article, Ms. Brown stated that "Simi operates the only free dental clinic in Ventura County.

Please do not forget The Salvation Army, Oxnard/Port Hueneme Corps, which also operates a free medical and dental clinic. This corps is located at 622 W. Wooley Road in Oxnard. For further information, please call 483-9235. The staff will be able to advise of the schedule for each of clinics.

Both the medical and dental clinics have qualified dentists and doctors who treat the patients. There is also a diabetes educator and a pharmacy.

Remember The Salvation Army for your dental and medical needs if Simi Valley is too far.

Glee Lewis,
Advisory Board chairwoman,
Oxnard

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our fire department in Camarillo. We are in good hands.

When the adjoining condo caught fire, our firemen saved my home and possibly more homes at Las Posas Gardens one Wednesday in March.

After carrying hoses at least 50 yards, they were able to put out the fire with much speed, strength and skill. I will be forever grateful.

Than you so much

Alice Herbruck,
Camarillo

Probable cause is, I think, police talk for sufficient reason to think, without prejudice, that one has violated or is violating the law.

In the U.S., generally speaking, no authority without probable cause may demand to see any person's ID. Therefore, it is impossible to readily distinguish American citizens and foreigners visiting or residing here legally from foreigners visiting or residing here illegally.

Only by creating a way to readily discover illegal aliens can anything meaningful be done.

A national ID card system for American citizens and foreigners visiting and residing in the U.S. legally coupled with an obligation to show ID on request would provide a way to discover illegal aliens, but that won't happen since most American voters don't want ID cards nor do they want to have to show them to anyone without probable cause.

If Americans don't like having foreigners visiting or residing in their country illegally and they don't want a national ID card system, then I must contend that Americans (in the U.S.) are bound to live in frustration alongside illegally present foreigners who, secure in their knowledge of probable cause, can simply thumb their noses at American passersby, including police, and laughingly be on their way.

One of my greatest hopes is that none of those illegal aliens will turn out to be terrorists plotting to set off dirty bombs in the Los Angeles area in retaliation for the CIA's drone-killing of Pakistanis. Just imagine Ventura County loaded with millions of panicked, hungry, thirsty and homeless Los Angelinos.

Among all possible causes that could bring and end to the nice lifestyles we now enjoy in Ventura County, a dirty bomb attack on Los Angels, I believe, would be the most probable cause, thanks, in large part, to the criteria of probable cause.

Bruce Berckman,
Oak View

Re: May 5 article, "Strickland out of League of Women Voters forum":

We want to thank you for the humor supplied in today's piece on Audra Strickland's reasoning powers! We chuckled at her excuse for not attending the League of Women Voters' forum - "wants to meet with voters." We're sure glad to see Ms. Strickland gets it.

We are the voters and will not cast our votes for her. Ms. Strickland, should find another field than politics - maybe comedy?

Judee Hauer,
Ventura

Re: Terry Paulson's May 23 column, "Taking on the budget challenge":

Mr. Paulson is once again misleading the readers of The Star with his familiar mendacity.

One of the major self-serving deceptions of conservatives is promoting the belief that government should be run more like a traditional business. With only a few exceptions, business is the antitheses of democratic government.

Democracy is a bottom-up system. The people elect and entrust to our representatives our well-being.

Traditional business is run from the top down. Everyone in the company works for the betterment and well being of the owner, CEO, or boss and then that person or entity trickles down their wealth to those who actually do the hard work.

Oddly enough, this would seem to be the exact argument that Mr. Paulson is making against government.

As we have all seen recently on Wall Street, these heads of companies and business men and women are perhaps the last people we want to entrust with our financial well-being. Perhaps if Mr. Paulson could show that John Davidson had experience running an employee-owned business, then his business acumen might translate to useful government management experience. Otherwise, I don't think the fact that Mr. Davidson has some traditional business experience is any kind of qualification for elected office and might actually be more of a warning sign.

There is a tremendous disingenuousness for Mr. Paulson to be making the argument that the person he feels should be elected to the Congress is one whose loyalties lie with the people at the top and not the working people of the district that he wants to represent. I can't help but feel that Mr. Paulson's support of Mr. Davidson is a bit of an attempted to sell snake oil to the people of the 23rd Congressional District.

~ Terry Welden,.
Simi Valley

Re: Terry Paulson's May 23 column, "Taking on the budget challenge":

Terry Paulson's article on ways to tame the budget misses the target. He ignores some basic facts.

Working in Congress is not like being a CEO of a business, where your decision is final. In Congress, to get things done any proposal is an offer to hundreds of colleagues to join you in an effort to reduce taxes and cut spending. Unfortunately, some of these offers are a direct attack on what your colleagues in Congress think is in their voters' best interests.

So, how does a Congressman get things done? Let's look at Congressman Gallegly's work that saved Naval Base Ventura County and established the Ronald Reagan Presidential library in Simi Valley. Both actions produced millions of dollars and jobs in Ventura County because Congressman Gallegly knew how to get the job done. He demonstrated to his colleagues that both actions were in their Congressional interest and, at the same time, good for the nation and Ventura county.

A CEO in Congress can't order his colleagues to vote his way or the highway. It is by quiet diplomacy, avoiding the headlines, media sound bites and incremental progress that things get done in Congress. Look at Gallegly's success and follow the leader.

~ David Laufer,
Oxnard

On Tuesday, May 11, I received a letter from Audra Strickland, her return address and letterhead read in bold letters, "Audra Strickland Ventura County Supervisor District 2." Audra, let me refresh your memory. Linda Parks is Ventura County Supervisor of District 2! My husband and I would like to know, what gives you the right to call yourself Ventura County Supervisor of District 2?

The letter was an invite to attend a coffee on Wednesday, May 13, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.. The same day and time Audra Strickland was to be at the League of Women Voters forum, before she backed out. Rick Lemmo, a senior vice president with Caruso Affiliate, hosted the event. The question arises, what kind of host sends you an invite just two days before the event? A host that does not want you to attend. We feel this was a ploy to give Audra an excuse for not having to debate Linda Parks, Ventura County Supervisor of District 2.

My husband and I support Linda Parks for Ventura County Supervisor District 2 - a lady of high integrity, a quality that Audra Strickland needs to learn.

Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Waingrow,
Newbury Park

Re: May 18 article, "Pension fund seeks $600 million":

Your clear description of the pension shortfall is very discouraging. Ricardo Duran states that because this is an election year no change in pension policy will take place. These people we elect do not want to threaten their own re-elections, so they pass on the added burden of increased debt to us. Politicians are cowards and greedy users of the system. The public unions own the Legislature. This is just another example of that fact. Your paper should be asking "our" representatives in Sacramento what they are doing about this enormous shortfall. They will lie and tell us how they will fix it. The Public of course is the one being fixed.

I say out with them all. We need representatives who can do what is right and thoughtful. not those currently in office.

~ Robet A. Lombardi,
Ventura

By now, the entire District 2 should know that Audra Strickland's mother-in-law has been calling the shots for the Ventura County Republican Party, spending hundreds of thousands of dollars to unseat Republican Linda Parks with daily vicious hate mailers. The Stricklands and their slick political shenanigans have no business messing with the efficiently run Ventura County.

Audra's credentials are no match for Linda, whose university degree is in urban planning. Anyone who really believes the lies, distortions and character assassination that the Strickland campaign has engaged in, will deserve the higher taxes, water rationing, depression, traffic jams and crime that will come if the gaming, tobacco, oil and megadevelopers get their hands on this area.

Make no mistake, these people will be long gone with their riches once the damage has been done. It is the residents who will carry the burden for decades to come. The entire Strickland support base should be tarred and feathered politically and run out on the rails they came in on.

To my neighbors and friends, if you love our home as much as I do, use your vote to support Linda Parks for Ventura County Supervisor.

~ Kimme Isaiah Black,
Santa Rosa Valley

I remember when Linda Parks first ran for supervisor. She voluntarily limited her contributions to no more than $500 per person to demonstrate that limits on campaign spending could work. Her opponent was businessman Randy Hoffman, who received $91,000 from a single landowner in Ventura County. Everyone wondered what that landowner would expect in return? Fortunately, we never found out.

Flash forward to today's supervisor race. Both candidates are bound by contribution and spending limits, and while Parks is abiding by them, Audra Strickland's campaign is run by proxy through the Ventura County Republican Central Committee. Consisting of Strickland's mother-in-law, her husband, employees, their spouses, etc., the committee is skirting those limits.

The Strickland campaign has received $20,000 from a county landowner, more than $25,000 from an excavating company, $25,000 from the California prison guards' union, and so on. More money is on the way from the prison guards. About $100,000 was funneled into her campaign through the state Republican Party and her husband Tony Strickland.

These funds pay for so-called "internal membership communications" to Republicans, claiming laughably outlandish things like Parks supports healthcare and welfare benefits for able-bodied illegal immigrants for life or some such nonsense. I don't think that union, that landowner and that excavating company care a whit a about that, but what do they want? What do they expect in return?

~ James Aidukas,
Thousand Oaks

Re: Sunday May 23 Pulse page:

Wow! What feast! I loved the entire page on the Arts in Ventura County.

I know how dedicated Bill Benson is with his amazing Youth Orchestra and always enjoy the Kingsmen productions of Shakespeare in the summer at CLU.

I hope this will be ongoing coverage of the arts. The board of directors of the Arts Council of the Conejo Valley alone will keep you in good stories. (June 12th will bring on the new members at the Hillcrest Center for the Arts reception). Start with Margaret Travers and go on down the line, plus all the artists and arts organizations who are members of ACCV. It's about time they were introduced to the public instead of a well kept secret.

Bravo and thanks to The Star for allowing them to take a bow.

Dorothy Hage,
Newbury Park

Proposition 14 would radically change California elections by drastically reducing our choices: Only the top two vote-getters from the primary election would appear on the November ballot. Let's consider some of the unpleasant consequences:

All minor political parties would be wiped out, so you'd no longer have any alternatives if you couldn't stand either of the major party candidates. We'd frequently be left with establishment and career politicians who will promise anything to get elected and re-elected, rather than taking principled positions on difficult issue.

Suppose you don't care about minor parties and are a staunch Democrat or Republican. Under Prop 14, the two candidates on the November ballot might well be from the same party. Four or five candidates from one party could split up the primary vote, allowing two candidates from the other party to slip in as the top voter-getters. If you're a Republican, do you really want your choices restricted to two liberal Democrats? If you're a Democrat, do you really want your choices restricted to two conservative Republicans?

Well, as a last resort you can always write in somebody else, even if that candidate didn't make it onto the ballot, right? Wrong! Prop 14 forbids write-ins from being counted! What if some terrible information surfaces about one or both of the candidates on the November ballot, such as proof of corruption or moral turpitude? Under Prop. 14 absolutely nothing can be done, not even a grass-roots write-in campaign or a symbolic vote for an honest person.

Whatever complaints we may have about the present system, Prop. 14 would result in a much, much worse election system. If Proposition 14 passes, California government will become even more dysfunctional.

~ Daniel Wiener,
Simi Valley

I'm confused about Prop 17.

I'm guessing that Prop. 17 will make the insurance companies more competitive for people who have good records, long-term continuous insurance coverage and shop around from time to time looking for better insurance prices. I'm also guessing that the "shop around from time to time" part is a very small segment of our population. When's the last time you talked to a long-term California driver who changed insurance companies?

At the same time, it seems insurance companies will make more money off of those who can't afford their insurance from time to time. These discontinuous service folks will pay more. Or maybe, because of the increased cost associated with a discontinuous insurance record, the less fortunate may not get insurance again - ever.

The insurance companies will make (save) money off this scenario, too, if the less fortunate actually have more accidents. If they're not insured, the insurance companies don't pay for accidents. Guess who will pay more for uninsured motorist coverage.

This seems to be a sure win for the insurance companies. That's no surprise since they are promoting it. I'm not sure what kind of a deal this is for consumers. I'm voting no.

~ Ron Paulinski,
Ventura

Arizona's law

Let me see if I have this right? We have men and women leaving their families and risking their lives overseas, but there are groups of people that are unwilling to carry a piece of paper to show they are United States citizens. Wow! Hang in there Arizona. We need you!

~ Greg Strang,
Ojai

Re: May 22 article, "Arizona tourism's loss may be local gain":

So apparently only newspaper reporters and sanctuary cities will be boycotting Arizona. Everyday citizens will be visiting that sensible state in record numbers.

I am boycotting Los Angeles

Taxpayers are overwhelmed paying for illegals and are just done. Read all the comments on this article online and see how the numbers fall. You should start supporting your neighboring state, not give standing ovations to a country that is so corrupt it's citizens cannot even live there. Of course, Mexico wants open borders (but only with us, not their borders with their southern neighbors). How much money is pumped into their economy from illegals working here?

Why doesn't The Star have a nice article next Sunday on the other side of the issue? Let's put both sides on the table and see which one makes more sense.

Illegal is not a color or a race, it is a matter of law. Those that are trying to skew it have their own agenda.

~ Sue Bertram,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 22 article, "Arizona tourism's loss may be local gain":

Thank you for the informative sidebar on Arizona's immigration law. I noticed that you cited Wikipedia. Too the best of my knowledge, information in Wikipedia is not independently verified. While it may be accurate, information should be used with care. As a community newspaper, items that you publish should be well researched. Please correct me if I am wrong.

~ Ralph J. Coolman,
Ventura

Recently I overheard a group of people from California denouncing Arizona and the current federal laws that Arizona officials are going to enforce pertaining to illegal aliens. These people that do not have to deal with the assortment of issues that plague Arizona but seem to be perfectly comfortable Monday-morning quarterbacking those that want control of their borders. Why are we arguing over this simple issue? Why not propose to the Mexican Government that the United States is willing to emulate and enforce the laws of this country pertaining to illegal immigration in the same exact manner that Mexico enforces laws of Illegal immigration into its country, case solved.

~ Rick Freeman,
Simi Valley

As a lifelong resident of Ventura County, spending nearly half of that time in local law enforcement, I know that Ryan Wright is the best choice for Superior Court Judge.

I have known Ryan both professionally and personally throughout my career. I know he is a dedicated and tireless public servant. He has formed a partnership with law enforcement, unlike any DA before him or probably any DA after him. Ryan is always available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. I have spent countless hours with Ryan from case inception to developing case strategy to case completion. I can't count how many times I have called him at 2 a.m. to ask him a question or review a search warrant. Ryan had made every deputy, officer or agent he has worked with a better cop.

Even though he is extremely tough on crime and takes pride in locking up violent predators and narcotic traffickers, his first priority has always been defending the Constitution. Ryan always believes in the rights of the victim but never forgets the rights of the accused. This attitude toward prosecuting cases has transferred to us in law enforcement, and because of that, we have stronger cases, usually impenetrable to appeal or defense tricks. Ryan has the respect and support of all Ventura County law enforcement.

~ Victor Fazio,
Thousand Oaks

Re: Deroy Murdock's May 23 column: "Unlimited meddling takes hold":

Thank you for publishing the above-referenced piece in which Murdock lists several recent "nanny state" intrusions by our federal government into the lives of American citizens. Against the express purpose of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, which were designed to protect citizens from an overbearing federal government. Congress has for years usurped powers that were granted to the states and to individuals. Essentially, our founders established a government to provide a level playing field for all citizens and not to provide the playing field itself.

A recent example of Congressional arrogance was in ignoring the wishes and wisdom of the American people in passing Obamacare legislation; most citizens saw through Pelosi's irresponsible rhetoric ("pass the legislation and you'll find out what's in it") and realized that it not only violated the intent of the Constitution but would only add to the national deficit. That document expressly gives Congress the responsibility for maintaining national integrity through ensuring fiscal solvency, protecting the national border, etc., which it purposely ignores while it continues to dabble in areas where it has no business.

~ Jefferson C. Romney,
Westlake Village

Re: Eli Sayegh's May 23 column, "Healthcare equality needs to be restored"

I would like to reply to Eli Sayegh concerning his beautiful editorial. He mentions Orwell but I hope he also has read W. Somerset Maugham. Maugham attended medical school in England with a degree in 1887. He wrote about his experience in his book, "Of Human Bondage." He wrote: "I saw how men died. I saw how they bore pain. ... I saw what faith shine in the eyes of those who trusted in what I could only think was an illusion." He never actually practiced medicine but went on to become a brilliant novelist. Many of us have chosen medicine as a means of expressing our art and our science to the benefit of others. However, it is very difficult to continue to be altruistic in today's world. There are many more regulations and restrictions and legal implications to providing care.

I recall in my training working in free clinics in the San Diego area, Baltimore and in Gilroy. We provided good care for those in tremendous need. In the medical school setting we could provide care to almost anyone regardless of ability to pay. The professors were on salary with good benefits, and the overhead was taken care of by the university. In private practice, the entire picture suddenly changed. There were barriers to providing care and to getting paid for providing care. This was a shock. It is now clear to me why so many fine doctors end up electing to be on contract with such settings as Kaiser Foundation or, like myself, with the Ventura County Healthcare Agency.

I hope that the medical altruism so beautifully expressed in the article by Eli Sayegh will prove viable over time. I pray that the young doctors coming to replace me will be able to break through the barriers that are now making it so difficult to provide appropriate care. It will be the young doctors such as Eli who will provide the steering of the huge ship of medical care. I hope he and his colleagues will "right the course."

~ William D Goldie, M.D.,
pediatric neurologist,

Re: May 22 article, "Arizona tourism's loss may be local gain":

The Star just doesn't get it. The vast majority of the citizens of Arizona and the rest of the U.S. overwhelmingly support SB1070. The Arizona bill is not as stringent as federal law, which the government refuses to enforce. The average American understands the difference between legal and illegal immigration. As for a tourism backlash against Arizona, don't bet on it. Instead of our usual mini vacations this summer to Disneyland, Sea World and beach camping, our family is spending 10 days in Arizona on a Lake Mead houseboat trip. Power to the people, not power to the government.

~ Ken Davis
Moorpark, Ca. 93020

If you walk down the street in Mexico City with an American flag on your shirt, the local police will tell you to remove the shirt. If you dont, they will take you to jail
right then and there, and maybe let you out in a couple of days.

We need a similar law in the USA. No display of foreign flags, except at the United Nations in New York City.

~ Zoltan Jablonski,
Oxnard

Re: May 23 article, "Hot pursuits turn cold":

Your Sunday, May 23, 2010 article regarding Ventura County's unsolved murders emphasized survivors' craving to know the murderers in order to have closure. My family, my sons, Stanley and Damon and Bryan and my daughter, Devina, we have concluded that knowing his killer will not bring Roland any closer to us. His death is final, irreversible, an end to a beautiful, but troubled life. Roland's big brother, Adam, was killed in an auto accident at 18, the victim of a drunken driver. Knowing Adam's killer doesn't relieve the pain or the loss, nor does it help ease the hope of having him back or seeing him again, which is the only thing that would take the grief away.

Miguel Espinosa, Jr.,
Oxnard

Re: Timothy Ehritt's May 16 letter to the editor, "Stop the Hate" and the May 20 article, "Calif. bill would honor WWII internment challenger":

May I include the Japanese in Mr Ehritt's "etc." among those who were "beaten up" by popular opinion as Robin Hindery's column "Calif. bill would honor WWII internment challenger" excellently discusses President Franklin Roosevelt's Executive Order 9066 that incacerated in American "concentration camps 120,000 American citizens of Japanese ancestry and Japanese green card holders?

Ms. Hindery mentioned that Fred Korematsu was arrested in 1942 for refusing to be incacerated in the internement camp. "In 1944, the high court ruled against Korematsu," but "40 years later a federal court judge vacated Korermatu's conviction." Even in South America those of Japanese ancestry were rounded up and brought over to the U.S. and placed in American concentration camps.

My brothers and I renounced our dual citizenship with Japan, but one day we were notified that our 1-A draft status was changed to "enemy alien" yet the U.S. Army's Hickam Field, which shared a chainlink fence with Pearl Harbor recruited us to work as civilian workers.

When I was a year from graduating from the university, U.S. Army Intelligence Service recruiters begged, pleaded, cajoled and played to our loyalty to volunteer, even though we, including my brother and I, were classified as "enemy aliens." My other brother was able to get out of the internment camp only to be drafted, and the only place they used "enemy aliens" then was the all-Japanese U.S. Army 442nd Regimental Combat Team.

~ Ted Wakai,
Oxnard

I will be voting No on Proposition 14, the top-two primaries ballot measure, and I urge my fellow Californians to vote No on 14, too.

Top-two has been shown to sweep independents and small parties off the ballot. Candidates who run on grassroots organizing and good ideas will have no chance against incumbents and well-funded political insiders under Top-two. In fact, in some districts both candidates on the ballot will be from the same party. Restricting voter choice and stifling independent voices is no way to improve elections.

Proposition 14 won't fix California's problems. It would only reinforce a broken system at a time when we need real reform like instant runoff voting and proportional representation.

~ Kendra Gonzales,
Camarillo

Re: Dan K Thomasson's May 21 column, "OK, so let's sell guns to terrorists":

Dan K Thomasson needs to take a deep breath and calm down. He isn't thinking clearly.

Mr. Thomasson complains that there's no national push to keep everyone on the "no-fly" terrorist watch list from buying firearms. Who could object to such a law? I can, and so can many others who don't want the principle of "innocent until proven guilty" stood on it's head.

A huge number of names on the list should not be there, or are the names of terrorist suspects who happen to share the same name with innocent Americans. Not only that, but according to the website fbi.gov, there is no way to tell if you are on the list! So, many Americans could have their constitutional right to own firearms taken away without due process.

A USA Today article, posted Aug. 19, 2004, writes about the late Sen. Ted Kennedy's being repeatedly prevented from boarding a U.S. Airways flight because he was mistakenly put on the terrorist watch list. Here is what he had to say about his experience: "If they have that kind of difficulty with a member of Congress, how in the world are average Americans ... to be treated fairly and not have their rights abused?"

Well said, Senator.

~ Ken Foerster,
Thousand Oaks

Re: Steve Fleischer's May 22 letter to the editor, "Immigration boycott":

I would join you, Steve Fleischer, if I could afford to go to Arizona. Boycotting Los Angeles is a good idea.

~ Hazel V Munger
Newbury Park

Re: May 21 editorial, " Prop. 14: yes Prop. 15: no":

The Star has endorsed Proposition 14 on the primary ballot. The Star's rationale downplays the fact that, under the proposed legislation, minority third party candidates would virtually always be excluded from the November runoff, or general elections. This reduces voter choice. Do we really want that?

Proposition 14 strengthens the politics-controlled Republican and Democratic parties at the expense of minority third parties. Third party candidates would only appear in the primary election (which has a lower voter turnout than does the general election), since it is very unlikely that such a candidate would rank as one of the top two vote-getters. You might ask what difference does it make, since the third party candidate is not going to win anyway? It makes a difference because in the general election to determine who wins office, I want more choice than the usual Tweedledee (Republican) vs. Tweedledum (Democrat). I urge you to vote No on Proposition 14.

~ Dennis Edwall,
Thousand Oaks

My wife and I will be voting for Ventura County Sheriff for the first time, since we moved to the El Dorado Mobile Home Park in Fillmore back in 2004.

During the campaign, we have read the articles concerning both men running for the open sheriff's position. I had questions about Cmdr. Dean. I expressed these concerns during a visit to our park manager's office this past week, simply in discussing with her the politics of the day.

Two days after that visit, there's a knock on our door, and guess who's standing there when I open it up? Yes, Geoff Dean. He's hot, sweaty and quite pleasant. He had been visiting homes within the park. He stepped inside our home and asked me to question him about my concerns, which primarily deal with the integrity issue that's been raised about him. We talked. My wife and I are now convinced Dean is the man for the job and that the issue is a non-issue.

Since I became eligible to vote, way back in 1959, there's only one other candidate for office that I know of who's knocked on my door asking for my vote. That's me, when I ran for Walnut City Council in 1982.

I'm impressed when the candidate for any office comes a-calling, especially in a seniors-only mobile home park. My wife was impressed, too! We are voting for Geoff Dean for Ventura County Sheriff on June 8.

Charles D. Richardson,
Fillmore

I am a founding member of the Board of Directors of the Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE). CAUSE's mission is to build grass-roots power to realize social, economic and environmental justice for the people of the Central Coast through policy research, leadership development, organizing and advocacy.

This is much more than a slogan. It is supported by effective action as a nonprofit organization.

CAUSE supports principles not candidates for public office, not even for me as a 12-year member of the Port Hueneme City Council.

CAUSE staff and the Board of Directors often exercise individual free speech by supporting candidates, but not as part of CAUSE. To my knowledge, CAUSE has not institutionally supported candidates either overtly or covertly.

For example, I endorse Susan Jordan for the 35th Assembly District. Some others at CAUSE support her opponent, Das Williams. Previously, there was a similar split on the candidates for State Senate District 23. This is based on honest differences of opinion.

At the end of the day, we join hands without rancor or ill will to support the mission of CAUSE. The social, economic and environmental justice that CAUSE brings to the Central Coast within the bounds of a nonprofit organization is much more important than the risk that any institutional behavior would endanger CAUSE's good work. All of us at CAUSE know and subscribe to that principle.

~ Murray Rosenbluth,
Port Hueneme

I'm voting for Meg Whitman! Let's let Jerry Brown retire, finally, and let's have "term limits" so we don't have "career
politicians."

~ Mary M. Cassidy,
Port Hueneme

It looks like Linda Parks gets to have her cake and eat it too. She gets to enjoy the comfort and an (R) next to her name in a more conservative district, but also gets to watch as the Democrats she has consistently supported attack her opponent. As a lifelong Republican, it makes me cringe to think that Parks can play both sides of fence.

Any Republican who supports the job-killing legislation of the liberal legislature, as well as some of the most liberal Democrat candidates to run for office, should not get our support. Her approach is not bi-partisan, it's political opportunism run amok.

~ Lindsay Kaye,
Thousand Oaks

I am writing this letter of support for Lela Henke-Dobroth in her quest to become a Superior Court Judge in Ventura County.

Ms. Dobroth is the most experienced candidate for this position, with 23 years in the Ventura County District Attorney's Office, nine of which as a chief deputy district attorney. She was the lead prosecutor in many complex and high profile cases, the most recent of which was the prosecution of Vincent Sanchez for multiple counts of rape and the murder of Megan Barroso.

Ms. Dobroth had a reputation for being a tough prosecutor but also as a champion for victim's rights. She took the lead in many projects and programs dedicated to working with the victims of crimes, including serving as chairwoman of the Ventura County Domestic Violence Task Force, chairwoman of the Ventura County Sexual Assault Task Force, and working to establish the Safe Harbor Multidisciplinary Interview Center, a centralized location for forensic interviews and medical examinations of sexual assault victims and abused children, to name a few.

Ms. Dobroth has the temperament, experience, and the open mind requisite to serve as a Judge of the Superior Court. The fact that Ms. Dobroth has been endorsed by former District Attorney Michael Bradbury and 16 Superior Court Judges says a lot to her qualifications, and I feel she will make an excellent addition to the bench.

~Charles Hookstra,
Assistant Chief,
Oxnard Police Department (retired),
Oxnard,

Four years ago, the citizens of the 4th District of Ventura County voted for change. The runoff election in November pitted Jim Dantona against Peter Foy, who won by a mere handful of votes. So my question is ... what happened to the change we all wanted?

It seems that Supervisor Foy is the new part-time, absentee supervisor. Take some time and check out Supervisor Foy's official county website. It hasn't been updated in months! He is all too committed to trotting around the state promoting his true passions with right-wing groups such as the ultra-conservative Americans for Prosperity (he is the state chairman, and he even records a video message most weeks!) and CItizens Alliance for Property Rights, a pro-developer group. Wow! he is very busy with his true passions, but not so much being a supervisor. He even moved his office in Simi Valley, and very few people knew about it.

During the 2006 debate against Dantona, Foy promised to spend at least 50 hours a week at his supervisor job. Promises, promises. In addition, didn't Foy say he stood against overdevelopment in his campaign literature? Didn't he say that he valued our Ventura County quality of life? Then why is his voting record overwhelmingly pro-development and anti-open space?

It is time for another change. Bruce Thomas can be that change. Look at the facts, and vote for a man who can really deliver service 100 percent of the time.

Set Foy free to pursue his true passions ... Tea Party rallies, speaking engagements and developments

~ Susan L. Wells,
Simi Valley

I am amused by critics of Mrs. Strickland and her husband. They are so upset because the Stricklands are always seeking government jobs, and thus, living off taxpayer money. Isn't that what Linda Parks is doing and has done for the last 17 years? After all, she went straight from the Thousand Oaks City Council to the much higher-paying supervisor job. I didn't hear any complaints when she did that.

They also criticize Mrs. Strickland for moving to District 2 to run for the supervisor position. That's like Mrs. Parks, who changed her political party (Democrat to Republican) when she decided to run for the Thousand Oaks City Council because it was politically expedient. Kinda forgot about that, didn't we?. We all know what she really is....a RINO!

I also wonder if the critics who complain about Mrs. Strickland's so-called negative campaigning feel or felt the same way about Obama and the Democrats constantly blaming everything on George Bush and the Republicans, particularly since Democrats have controlled Congress for the past three and a half years and have the anointed one in office for about a year and a half now. We all know how well that's been working these days, don't we?

~ Bob Meisterling,
Thousand Oaks

I am supporting Lela Henke-Dobroth for Superior Court Judge.

I have known the Henke family for more than 49 years and have had a professional relationship with Ms. Dobroth for 17 of my 32 years in law enforcement. I worked for the Oxnard Police Department from 1966 through 1998.

A large portion of my career was working in investigations as a major crimes supervisor. I had considerable experience interacting with Ms. Dobroth and I always have been impressed by her tenacity and incredible work ethic. I found her to be open-minded, easy to work with, and she was always available to assist investigators with their cases. The care and compassion for the victims was always first and foremost with her. As an example, she was integral in the establishment of the Safe Harbor Multidisciplinary Interview Center, a centralized location for the forensic interviews and medical examinations of sexual assault victims and abused children.

Ms. Dobroth's extensive experience both as a deputy district attorney and chief deputy district attorney make her the most qualified candidate. She has the temperament, legal expertise and dedication to make an excellent Superior Court Judge.

~Robert Elder,
Camarillo

I always research new candidates. I didn't have to do any research about Linda Parks. I know she lives in our district. I have resided here for nearly 20 years. She has always been my neighbor. She has always been your neighbor.

When there have been issues for which I telephoned her office, I spoke with Mrs. Parks. When I leave a message, she returns my call. When I email her she replies. Once I spoke to the convened Board of Supervisors. By the end of the day, there was an email from Mrs. Parks waiting for me with help.

What makes a great public servant is one that doesn't necessarily have all the answers, but one who knows where to go to get them. She will convene county folks who can best provide an ear and, hopefully, help forge a path. Cool, huh? This isn't going to happen in Los Angeles County and it isn't going to happen for us with Audra Strickland. Strickland doesn't even know who they are. She doesn't even know who we are. She doesn't even live here, except for schlepping her carpet bag into an apartment so she can establish residence to run. Wow, can someone get this wool out of my eyes?

Audra Strickland is not our neighbor. As long as Mrs. Parks is here, we all have direct access to continue working with the county. Without her, what have we got? Audra who?

~ Debra Herschman,
Oak Park

In the race for sheriff, one theme being touted to the voters is to accept the endorsement from the sheriff's executive management team. They say, "who better would know?" Accepting that premise, I would urge voters to support Geoff Dean for our next sheriff. As the longest serving chief deputy of the department, I offer the unique perspective of having supervised both candidates during their careers and also every member of the current sheriff's administration. Being retired, my endorsement is not influenced by a concern for continued employment or loyalty to the current sheriff.

I know Geoff Dean to be a man of incredible integrity. Having years of executive experience, he brings demonstrated leadership, accountability and vision to the office. Not just when the campaign bell sounded, but for many years Geoff has been deeply involved in our community beyond the walls of the department. Geoff's commitment to all county citizens is incomparable. Besides being endorsed by hundreds of elected and other community leaders, he is supported by every group representing police officers, deputy sheriffs, corrections officers, probation officers, highway patrol officers, prosecutors, firefighters and every chief of police in Ventura County to be the leader of the law enforcement community. As asked earlier, who better would know?

Sheriff Larry Carpenter said it best: "the job of sheriff requires leadership ability, and I believe that Geoff is a leader among leaders." I respectfully offer this perspective and urge everyone to vote for Geoff Dean to be our next sheriff.

~ Kenneth Kipp,
chief deputy sheriff, ret.,
Ventura,

What does unruly, unfair, insecure, and a playhouse all have to do with Audra Strickland?

Strickland showed a lack of commitment to the public when she chose a date to debate Linda Parks, then abruptly canceled it in favor of attending a coffee at a supporter's house.

Strickland demanded that her supporter be the moderator in a future debate. One does not need to be a rocket scientist to know that a debate must be done in fairness and without even the possible appearance of impropriety. The moderator cannot be an outward supporter of either party.

The Republican Central Committee contains Strickland relatives and cronies and has enabled Strickland to use Republican money as if it were her own purse, which is unfair to other candidates.

According to the news, Strickland is renting an apartment to live here to qualify to run for office in our district. Is she here to stay or will she abandon her "playhouse" if she loses the election? Does this really show a commitment to our district?

Linda Parks has resided here for many years and has superior communication skills. Parks has shown her commitment towards our community.

Linda Parks is a legend. She organized a grass roots campaign against the multimillion-dollar Ahmanson Ranch project, which would have resulted in a crippling blow to the traffic along the Ventura Freeway if it had been built. She fought Goliath and won!

Vote for Linda Parks. She can take us where we want to be.

~ Sharon Miret,
Newbury Park

Thousand Oaks and Oak Park residents are getting bombarded with one or two mailers per day and phone push polls attacking Supervisor Linda Parks. So far, at least 21 mailers have been sent. An estimated $500,000 has been used by Audra Strickland and her allies, including developers, tobacco and gambling interests to fund these efforts. These mailers and phone push polls contain outright lies regarding Supervisor Parks's record. Supervisor Parks has found it necessary to respond by setting up a web page titled Honesty Counts with 40 factual corrections to 40 outright lies issued by her opponent and allies so far.

An example of just one of those lies: Audra Strickland inaccurately stated that Linda Parks has eliminated county funding for crossing guards since 2005. The funding for crossing guards was shifted from the county to the cities in 1994, nine years before Linda Parks was on the Board of Supervisors. They go on and on.

Supervisor Parks has worked to cut government waste, protect the environment, and promote public safety. She has helped secure fiscally conservative policies that recently resulted in a top bond rating for our county, despite the fiscal crisis in our state.

Now more than ever, we need strong advocates on our Board of Supervisors to support our local economy, make our roads safe, protect the environment and keep public safety our No. 1 priority.

Please join me and our local firefighters and sheriffs in supporting the re-election of Supervisor Linda Parks.

~ Jay Kapitz,
Oak Park

The Mojave Cross is a historical monument that was created to show respect to fallen World War I soldiers. It deserves our continued respect and recognition. The Supreme Court stayed the offensive 9th District Court ruling to remove the monument that stood in the Mojave Desert for 75 years.

The National Park Service allowed dishonorable people to steal this monument and now chose to remove a replacement all under cover of alleged orders from the United States Department of Justice. Failure to demand that the Mojave Cross be restored is a slap in the face to all decent people.

At the end of the day, we all share the freedoms for which the people the Mojave Cross honors paid the ultimate price. Allowing a pathetic few angry fools to get away with their disrespect is unconscionable. What is wrong with these angry intolerant fools that brought the Mojave Cross as an issue before the court in the first place? What is wrong with the politicians & bureaucrats that pander to a segment of society that focuses on and makes issue out of our differences?

Please urge the National Park Service to put the replacement Mojave Cross back up. Common decency demands it.

~ Greg Clark,
Simi Valley

I write today in support of Geoff Dean for Sheriff. I have known Geoff and his wife Marlene for well over 17 years. Not only have my wife and I been close friends with Geoff and Marlene, our respective children have as well, and remain so today. As a result of the close friendship between our families, years of coaching PONY baseball and CGSA softball teams together, and simply being around as only a close friend would be, I have had numerable opportunities to observe Geoff Dean the dad, as well as Geoff Dean the husband.

Everything about this man and his family makes me proud to be his friend. There is no one I would trust more to be sheriff of Ventura County. His competency and integrity as an exemplary Law Enforcement professional, his calm demeanor, his vision and unique ability to communicate and build consensus is matched only by his love and devotion to his family. While he has been similarly devoted to his chosen life's work, keeping our communities safe, Geoff Dean has been the kind of father and husband that I would only choose to associate myself with.

Given the personal nature of all that I have witnessed over 17 years, and the unquestionable, substantial and exemplary qualifications necessary to lead the Sheriff's Department, I know my vote will be cast for the right candidate: Geoff Dean. I hope you'll join me, and my entire family, in voting for Geoff Dean for Sheriff on June 8.

~ George A. Erb,
Camarillo

Taxes imposed by the state of California on fuel for boats provide infrastructure and safety for boaters through the Department of Boating and Waterways, just as taxes on gasoline for automobiles support road construction. The Boating Instruction and Safety Center proposed for Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard would be funded by these taxes on fuel, plus other taxes paid by boaters. Strickland's assertion that boating taxes collected by California should not be spent for local facilities suggests Audra does not understand government budgets. Would Strickland prefer taxes California extracts from Ventura County be spent outside our County?

Supervisor Parks voted against the Boating Instruction and Safety Center proposed for Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard, then later initiated elimination of the Channel Islands Harbor Commission, saying it wasted tax dollars. Elimination of government waste is characteristic of Parks's record during her nearly 20 years of local political service. Linda Parks is no way a "tax and spend" politician.

Parks does not accept contributions from, and thus is not beholden to, unions or large corporations. In contrast, Strickland's campaign of false assertions is funded by oil companies, major developers, $25,000 from State Prison Guards and appallingly, Ventura County and California Republican organizations. Documentation countering Strickland's false assertions can be found on Parks's web site http://www.voteforparks.com/honestycounts.html.

As a Republican since supporting Goldwater for President, Linda Parks's priorities are my priorities: conservative, fiscally responsible government; honest communications; and good government improving our life. Ventura County needs more politicians like Republican Linda Parks.

Tom Ritch,
Thousand Oaks

The negativity and dirty tactics in the 2nd Supervisorial campaign are a disservice to voters. Our home has received more than a dozen negative mailers at a cost of a least a quarter of a million dollars. Who is paying for them and what is their agenda? Audra Strickland's recent contributors include the California Prison Guard Union, various Indian casinos, tobacco companies and Caruso Affiliated Holdings, owner of The Lakes. Will the 2nd District soon be home to a prison or a casino if Audra is elected?

It would have been valuable to hear both Strickland and Parks debate the issues and challenges facing our community at the respected League of Women Voters forum. Strickland cancelled one week before the debate and now wants her supporter, Rick Lemmo, Caruso Affiliated Vice President to moderate another debate. We expect fairness and better behavior from Mrs. Strickland.

I want to hear more about Mrs. Strickland's accomplishments and what she intends to do instead of this negative campaign. Linda Parks has proved she can work with others, including those with a different opinion. Mrs. Parks helped Ventura County pass a balanced budget and increase our bond rating. Additionally, Linda Parks is endorsed by both the Deputy Sheriff's Association and the Ventura County Professional Firefighters Association and has not taken money from either for her campaign.

I will be voting for Linda Parks who has proved that she is someone we can trust.

Debbie Gregory,
Thousand Oaks

In one form or another, I have been in public service in the city of Oxnard since 1973, taking a short break to attend college. During my career serving the citizens of Oxnard, I have come to know Lela Henke-Dobroth for nearly 30 years as a prosecutor in the Ventura County District Attorney's Office and even more importantly as a friend.

As a prosecutor for the District Attorney's office Lela had the respect and admiration of law enforcement, crime victims and their families. No one worked harder or was more dedicated to seeing that justice was done than Lela. Beyond that, Lela became a mentor for many of the victims she assisted in the criminal justice system by continuing to keep in contact with them after justice had been served. Lela was someone that they could trust and count on for advice and support long after their cases were concluded.

Lela's passion for the law and her integrity and honesty are beyond reproach. They have been hallmarks of her career. I trust Lela not only as a legal professional but also as an everyday person who exemplifies character and always goes the extra distance to ensure that the right thing is done.

We in Ventura County are blessed to have an excellent judiciary. I believe that there is no person better qualified to join our highly qualified bench than Lela Henke-Dobroth. If experience, compassion, truth and integrity are important to you, then vote for Lela Henke-Dobroth to be your next Superior Court judge.


Bryan MacDonald,
Oxnard

Susan Jordan deserves your vote in the Democratic primary. Susan and her opponent differ in experience, maturity and ambition.

Susan has decades of experience in business and management plus years of volunteer community service and as a county planning commissioner. She has raised a family and cared for aging parents.

She opposed the deal for new oil drilling off the coast after finding the agreement's flaws and no guarantees for the promised benefits, flaws later confirmed by independent legal experts. Yet her opponent supported the drilling deal. Saying no to the deal took courage, an example of Susan's personal integrity and commitment to doing what is right.

The Legislature can't balance its budget and has taken billions from local cities, schools and our counties. We need mature leaders who can work together, find answers and fix today's problems.

Her opponent's experience is mostly political - as a paid aide and community activist, then running for city council and for county supervisor, then re-election for council and now for the state Assembly, all in six and a half years. Four major campaigns in six years.

Disturbingly, this short career is potholed by partly true statements with the inconvenient parts left unsaid. We need leaders who speak the whole truth.

Please vote for Susan Jordan, Democratic candidate for Assembly. We need leaders with vision, integrity, life experience and common sense. Susan Jordan has deep roots in this community and cares about restoring California's excellence in education, jobs, and our quality of life.

Rob Corley,
Ventura

My husband is a life-long conservative Republican voter; I'm a moderate independent. Politically, we rarely agree.

However, we both are disgusted with Audra Strickland's carpetbagging (taking an apartment does not make you a member of the community), Strickland's manipulating (reneging on the traditional League of Women Voters' debate, then proposing one moderated by a supporter) and Strickland's lying (mailing those outrageous fabrications every day).

Linda Parks's unique blend of fiscal conservatism, social responsibility, and environmental sensitivity has generated broad-based support across the political spectrum. The purely pro-development interests will always oppose her, and no amount of reasonable dialogue is going to change their minds.

To those voters who may not be savvy to this area's political history or who are perhaps just new to the community and confused by the brouhaha, we would pose two simple questions.

Who do you think would best represent your community? Linda Parks, who has lived in it, raised children in it, volunteered in it, fought for it, strengthened it, protected it and continues to serve it. Or Audra Strickland, who lives elsewhere, raises her family elsewhere, collects outside special interest money and has no connection to the people of the 2nd District.

Linda Parks lives in and loves this community and has made it her life's work to make our lives better. Audra Strickland wants another elected position, any position, any place.

A mockery had been made of this election.

We're voting for Supervisor Linda Parks.

~ Ginger and Steve Pollack,
Oak Park

It just strikes me as odd that the best the Republican Party in California can do is a failed business woman who had to be forcibly removed by the board of directors of her company in order for the company to survive. Really? It took me five minutes on the internet to be overwhelmed with information about her demise at Hewlett Packard. That's the Republican candidate?

A wealthy candidate who used her own personal fortune to fight breast cancer, and now, wants to take away the right of perhaps thousands of American women who are less well off financially to receive life-saving treatments. Really? It conjures the image of aristocracy sitting in their mansions suggesting that cake would be a good replacement for bread for the needy. That's the face of the modern Republican Party?

Carly Fiorina couldn't even be bothered to vote in most of the elections that she was eligible to vote in. She didn't seem to care about the American democratic system until she found a way to use it to her best self-interest. Really? That's the best the Republicans have to offer?

I'm not sure who I will vote for in November, but Ms. Fiorina is a bit of an embarrassment for Republicans and the state of California. I have to think we can do better.

~ Terry Welden,
Simi Valley

Mark Lunn, candidate for county clerk and recorder has my vote. I'm voting for him because he has spent months learning about the responsibilities of the position. Mark Lunn does not promise to accomplish tasks that are not in the realm of his duties, such as changing procedures for obtaining business licences (this is the responsibility of the tax collector or the city government in which the business resides) or that he will have an impact on taxes and spending either at the county, state or federal level.

Mark Lunn understands that regulations and laws determine procedures implemented in the elections, clerk and recorders offices; and while he may improve current procedures, he is not stating that he will change procedures without an understanding of why current procedures are in place to meet required regulations set by the state legislators.

Mark Lunn does not wildly make inaccurate statements or use currently popular political buzz words to attract voters.

Finally, Mark Lunn is running for this position with the understanding that this is a highly regulated department and that his ego is not a factor, rather that doing the best and right thing for our county within the law is the motivation to run for this office.

~ Helen Stallings Schmit,
Ojai

Re: Martin Schram's May 20 column, "Spare Us All From the Details":

After listening to and watching President Obama for the past 17 months, I fail to see how Mr. Schram can say the President is "an impressive intellect and a gifted orator." When the President said in July 2009 that the Cambridge police acted "stupidly" before he knew any of the facts, was he showing his intellect? What about his telling the American people what was in the health bill he signed, when neither he nor the members of Congress had even read the bill? What about the President's criticism of Arizona's immigration law when neither he nor his Attorney General had even read the bill? Is this the President's intellect on display?

I think the President is an arrogant dreamer. He believes he can say something, and this makes it true, regardless of what the facts say or the reality is. As for the President's oratory skills, when has he ever spoken about the greatness of this country and its people? When has he ever shown appreciation for the small business men and women who continue to keep their businesses open in spite of the tough economy, to keep paying their employees, perhaps provide them health coverage and, of course, continue to pay taxes? When has he remarked about the great generosity or exceptionalism of the American people?

I have only heard him be critical of hard-working Americans. He berates and tries to further regulate American employers.

Mr. Schram excuses the president claiming he has been "The man who knew too much," but after a year and a half, I think the president is saying exactly what he wants and continues to get the results he wants. To think otherwise would indicate the president does not posses an impressive intellect.

~ Jim Oliver,
Ventura

Re: Jerre Reimers letter May 18 letter to the editor, "Oil spill inaction":

Reimers claims that the Obama administration is deliberately allowing the oil spill to worsen. Right. The same president who just previously had announced a policy of expanded oil drilling is now deliberately allowing this catastrophe to grow so that he can then rescind his own position on oil drilling. That makes a lot of sense.

Reimers blames Obama, while conveniently omitting B.P., Hailburton and a Congress that to this day are doing everything in their power to protect big oil. Dick Cheney would love his letter.

~ Karen Murphy,
Oxnard

It's time for people to go to jail. This needs to happen from the top down. If we are ever to restore faith in our leaders, our financial markets or our regulatory agencies, there needs to be an unprecedented house-cleaning.

And the first people that need to go to jail are George W. Bush and Dick Cheney. Why should our captains of industry follow the law when such blatant crimes have been orchestrated by our former president and vice president? In fact, these same CEOs were complicit with Bush and Cheney as they met to divide the spoils of Iraq long before the attack on 9/11 happened.

Our former presidential administration manipulated information, lied to the American people and acted in its own self-interest at the expense of innocent lives and trillions of dollars. With leadership like this, how could corporate players not mimic this corrupt business model? The new mantra in this country is that money and influence excuse all crimes and that infinite resources justify horrific atrocities.

When our highest officers can pillage with impunity, what is the rule of law? Are we really surprised that the Tea Partiers are arming themselves to the teeth and chanting succession and sedition? When money and influence write their own laws, what options do people have when they have neither? The level playing field has become so dramatically pitched that the middle class needs mountain climbing gear just to stay in the game, and the poor don't have the equipment.

Since when did Americans have to beg for a living wage, health care or safe working conditions? When George Bush and Dick Cheney walked away from their crimes without even an investigation, they took the goodwill and faith in America with them. Forget the war against terror, protect us from our leaders and CEOs.

~ John Loprieno,
Westlake Village

As a resident of Ventura County, I think it is important that we have local leaders that we can trust and that will look after our best interests, especially during these difficult economic times. Linda Parks has consistently worked against the hard-working taxpayers, wastefully spending our tax revenue and sending many of our jobs outside of the county.

We need accountability in our leadership and we need someone we can trust. Audra Strickland has responsibly served the residents of Ventura County, earning herself a reputation of honesty and strong conservatism, as well as enthusiastic and energetic leadership. It is leadership such as this that has earned Audra the endorsement of Congressman Tom McClintock, four out of the five City Council members and the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

It's time to hold Linda Parks accountable for her failures and send the message that we want responsible and honest leadership. Join me in voting for Audra Strickland on June 8.

~ Alyssa Selogie,
Newbury Park,

Linda Parks's re-election campaign has given us some good local political humor. From her campaign mailings, one would think that Audra Strickland is a career politician who single-handedly created California's massive budget deficit and the acrimony in Sacramento, while Parks is an outsider - not someone who has been in elective office for 14 straight years - who is singled-handedly responsible for reigning in the costs of county employee pensions. Yet, the Ventura County Grand Jury reported that from 1998 through 2008 the County's contribution for its employee pensions increased 327 percent, and the average general county employee pension increased by 69 percent. That is great for county employees, but not for taxpayers who pay those pensions.

While the uncontrolled increase in employee pensions costs has occurred during Parks' seight years on the Board of Supervisors, California's fiscal problems existed long before Audra went to the Assembly. As a member of the minority party, Audra did her best in the Assembly to reign in public spending.

Parks can be proud of her accomplishments in office, but it is time to end her term on the Board of Supervisors as Audra Strickland has been termed out of the Assembly, and to give Audra an opportunity to bring Ventura County more fiscal discipline. I also am confident that Audra will have the cCounty replace the burned out street lights in Oak Park, which I don't think has been done in the five years I've been walking my dog at night.

~ Kenneth W. Kossoff,
Oak Park,

Our immigration system is not broken, as the Democrats insist. It is simply not enforced by either the Democrats or the last Republican administration. There are provisions for immigrating with the intent to become a citizen, there are guidelines for allowing temporary workers in the country as needed and there are penalties for sneaking in illegally. There are also penalties for those businesses who hire the undocumented.

The problem with our law is the government has absolutely refused to enforce it. Giving amnesty to those who entered the country illegally will make a mockery of our immigration system. Will amnesty be extended to those who have played by the rules of the immigration system, filling out one application after another, paying fees whenever requested? How about those who have already played by the rules? Should they get a refund?

Giving amnesty to those who entered the country illegally is rewarding them for breaking the law. We are already rewarding them enough by providing free housing, free health care and free schooling. They receive services that our own citizens who have been paying taxes for years cannot get when they have been affected by the slump in the economy.

When a large rally of illegals can get together and challenge the laws of this land, this nation is in trouble. When will enough be enough and we take our nation back, saying we're mad as hell, and we're not going to take it anymore?" It would appear that this is exactly what Arizona said when it passed a bill to enforce the law.

Check the records of your representatives. Ssee what their position is on illegal immigration. If they are for amnesty, vote them out. It is time that we rally behind Arizona, not against them. They are only enforcing the federal law! I applaud them.

~ Peggy Bell,
Camarillo

If I broke into someone's house without their permission, I would be charged with burglary. The government would prosecute me to the full extent of the law. That's what illegal aliens are doing to this country, burglarizing the United States, but not only are they not prosecuted, they are often receiving the perks that many Americans are denied.

They can go into any hospital in California and get treatment in the emergency room, and the doctors, nurses and healthcare workers are forbidden to ask if they are in this country illegally. It's illegal in California for them to get driver's licenses, Social Security cards or any benefits that legal immigrants and U.S. citizens can. It's also illegal for them to work under the table, i.e., work for cash without paying taxes. So if an illegal alien has a job and pays taxes, he or she is either working under someone else's Social Security number or a forged one. If they have their own Social Security number, they received it illegally by using forged or otherwise fraudulent documents. So they've not only come into this country illegally, they're committing fraud, forgery and/or income tax evasion, both state and federal.

If an American did any of these, he or she would be charged with the appropriate crime. If illegal aliens are caught doing the same they're usually just deported and are free to cross illegally again and again. Immigration reform, to me, is equal protection and prosecution under our existing laws. Those of us against amnesty (70-plus percent of America) aren't George Wallace at a university railing against integration. When a country no longer has borders, however, it ceases being a country. Send them all back to their home countries, because they have no home here. No amnesty ever!

~ Randy Thomson,
Thousand Oaks

I am supporting Ms. Lela Henke-Dobroth for the position of Superior Court Judge in Ventura County.

I have known Ms. Dobroth professionally for over 20 years. I have always been impressed with her legal expertise and her hands-on approach to criminal prosecutions. Her compassion for victims is above and beyond and is exemplified by her taking a lead role in the Safe Harbor Program, a centralized location for the forensic interviews and medical examinations of sexual assault victims and abused children.

Her extensive experience as both a Deputy District Attorney and Chief Deputy District Attorney make her the best candidate for Superior Court Judge. Her temperament, calm demeanor and fair approach are what I would expect for a position such as a Superior Court Judge.

There is a reason why 16 Superior Court Judges, former District Attorney Michael Bradbury, the Service Employees International Union and the Tri Counties Labor Council are supporting Ms. Dobroth and the reason is that she is the best person for the job. I support Ms. Dobroth in this endeavor and feel that she will be an excellent addition to the bench.

~ John Suchil,
Oxnard

I am writing this letter of support for Ms. Lela Henke-Dobroth in her quest to become a Superior Court Judge in Ventura County.

I have known Ms. Dobroth for two years on a professional level. From the beginning, I was impressed by her professionalism, legal expertise and compassion. Her people skills are excellent, and her demeanor is what I would expect for a position such as a Superior Court Judge.

Ms. Dobroth's 23 years of experience as a Deputy District Attorney, her years as a Chief Deputy District Attorney and her time in private practice make her the most qualified candidate for this position. Her dedication to the County of Ventura is unparalleled and exemplified by the hard work and dedication she put into the prosecution of Vincent Sanchez, the serial rapist and murderer who was responsible for the murder of Megan Barroso.

Ms. Dobroth has my complete support in this election, and I am positive she will make an excellent judge of the Superior Court.

~ John Wright,
Oxnard

Re: Arthur I. Cyr's May 17 column, "British coalition shows continuity":

The recent British election and subsequent formation of a coalition government between the Conservative and Liberal Democrat parties has opened up a fascinating discussion over government stability, party coalition building and the meaning of citizen representation in the information age. While Cyr is correct in concluding that based on history a coalition government is a sign of continuity within the British system, the downplaying of potential consequences related to adopting a proportional representation voting system may damage the very continuity Cyr seeks to highlight.

The coalition deal that was struck between Conservatives and Liberal Democrats was built on a troubling concession to hold a national referendum on proportional representation, instead of the traditional winner-take-all system. Proportional representation will no doubt lead to greater gridlock, growth in small, but influential factions, more unstable governing coalitions and potential deterioration of confidence in the government's ability to deal with the challenges of the day.

Further, It should be noted that according to election exit polling data provided by the The Guardian, Conservatives would have gained fewer seats under a proportional representation system to both the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrat Party than had occurred under the current winner-take-all approach. So, while Conservatives stand to win in the near term, the concession most likely will lead to a faster and potentially unstable decline in British Conservative representation.

History is often an effective keystone to stand from in order to argue on behalf of stability and continuity. However, the very credibility of governing coalitions often falls apart under their own paradoxes when faced with great national challenges. Passage of this proportional representation scheme will undermine the British government's response capability, potentially harm our Anglo-American alliance and hinder our long term mutual security interests.

~ Scott Blough,
Simi Valley

Re: James Willis's May 20 letter, "Missing Chapter: Mexico":

Willis said it all regarding Mexico's President Felipe Calderon's do-nothing government in Mexico. Why would the President of Mexico want to help his people in his country when Mexico can reap the benefits it receives from this country? However, for him to complain about Arizona and its new policy is outrages to say the least! Mexico receives billions of dollars from its people who have crossed the border's into this country illegally. The illegal immigration problem is not going away until our government can stand up and do what's right for our country!

I don't see that happening.

The right and the left are at fault. They sell their selves for the almighty vote just to get the Latin community to vote. If you ever speak to these politicians and ask them about immigration and what they're going to do about it, they tell you what you want to hear, and then they do nothing.

It's pathetic what our government has turned into. We as a state are so far in debt because of this massive problem that has been created here.

Mary Troness,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 18 article, "Santa Paula Public Works loses 2 of its top managers suddenly":

Something stinks at City Hall. Cliff Finley did an excellent job as Interim City Manager and was a finalist for the position. Finley did an excellent job overseeing the construction of the new sewer plant. Finley has done a good job running his department and is supported by his staff, yet was terminated without warning. Finley also knows the inner workings of the city very well. If City Manager Jaime Fontes were to not succeed, Finley would be there to step right in. Finley also knows what is what and can challenge facts when Fontes is inaccurate. There are a lot of questions about Finance Manager John Quinn's and Jaime Fontes's report about funding and needed cuts that are not being answered. Cliff Finley knows the truth but has been silenced.

It appears Jaime Fontes went into self protection mode and eliminated his competition and eliminated the two people that could stand in his way. Where is due process? This is not putting the city first. Fontes has since hired former Public Works Director Norm Wilkinson, who is to blame for the mess the city got in with the old sewer plant. Because of Wilkinson, the city received fines and also is playing catch-up in fees to pay for the cost of it all. If a future plan would have been in place by Wilkinson, the citizens would not be shocked by a sudden increase in rates. He should not be placed back in control of the Public Works Department.

Not only should the abilities, motives and decisions of Fontes be questioned, but also the leadership of the council for allowing this to happen without warning. For those council members supporting this, it won't be forgotten at election time.

Roger Brooks,
Santa Paula

On behalf of the Ventura County Ballet Company, I would like to thank Ventura City Corps for its able assistance in packing and loading all of the materials for our upcoming performance of Sleeping Beauty, to be held May 22 and 23 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center.

As a professional ballet production, the props, decorations and costumes for Sleeping Beauty are both numerous and delicate. Ventura City Corps, let by Ken Cozzens, carried dozens of loads with eagerness, strength, care and good humor.

Steve Offerman,
Ventura

Audra Strickland continues her vicious attacks on Linda Parks in the campaign for supervisor in the 2nd District. Linda's classy self and her classy campaign remind me of a couple lines in Rudyard Kipling's poem "If":

• "Or being lied about, don't deal in lies, ..."


• "If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken, twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, ..."

Bob Larkin,
Westlake Village

In Pennsylvania, an important lesson was learned: Educated voters will not be fooled by candidates who switch political parties for political expedience.

Our local example is Linda Parks, who as a Republican has repeatedly supported, endorsed and championed liberal candidates and causes. Not only that, but now the campaign has its letter-writing machine out in full force questioning why the local GOP supports Audra Strickland.

Such a disingenuous point is lost on informed voters. The local Republican Party supports candidates who share its values in pracitice.

To support Linda Parks is a slap in the face to conservatives who spend time and money to defeat the liberals that Parks supports.

Josh Codron,
Oak Park

Re: May 18 article, "Pension fund seeks $600 million":

Can someone please explain to me why the taxpayers of California are being told (not asked) to subsidize the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS). Everyone in this country has been affected in one way or another by this recession.

It's very obvious to me that the the fund manager invested in some questionable investments. I have an annuity with a very respected life insurance company. When the financial downturn started in 2008, I called the company and they assured me that real estate makes up less than 1 percent of its investment portfolio. In fact, the company said it could see this coming in 2005 and sold all of its owned property at the top of the market. the company now leases all of its offices. While smart investors were selling, others were buying and building at the top of the market. I can say my annuity, and others like me who have them, have not seen a reduction in principle or interest rate for that matter. While all of the greedy investors and financial institutions (yes life insurance companies are considered financial institutions) asked for bailouts, life insurance companies remained sturdy.

CalPERS should look no further than its own two greedy riverboat gamblers, who the state attorney general is charging with a $4.8 billion broker-dealer fraud - CalLPERS CEO Federico Buenrostro and his buddy and former CalPERS board member Alfred Villalobos. They have your money, not the taxpayers of California.

Larry Gonzales,
Oxnard

Once again, the public is complaining about shopping carts being a litter and collection problem,and as usual, the local politicians simply talk about solutions that always cost the taxpayers money.

To them I say, get your heads out and up and look around. In the U.K. a simple solution has been in use for more than 30 years. Carts are placed in parking lot collection areas, by the entry door to markets, and other areas.

All carts are neatly tucked together, as in our own stores, buy to each cart is attached a small unit which will hold a one-pound coin ($1.44 at the current time). This coin unlocks the cart from the others and remains there until the cart is returned to the collection point. The coin is then released by the simple action of re-connecting the lock to the next cart. Ergo, no loose carts in the lot, no loose carts on the streets or in yards. Of course, the user can leave the cart loose, but loses their money.

Cost of the unit is about $1 and remains on the cart for its life. Simple, effective, easy to use.

Don Davidson
Port Hueneme

Re: May 19 commentary by Ruben Navarrette's May 19 column, "Some kids out of control":

If what Mr. Navarrettte states is true, that administrators at Live Oak High School asked all students beforehand not to wear flag clothing (from any country) on Cinco de Mayo. then why is it that only the students wearing the American flag on their clothing were asked to remove it or go home? Shouldn't all students wearing any country's flag on that day also have been asked to remove it or go home?

~ Jenny Murry,
Moorpark

Help me out here, I am confused. People want smaller government, so they lay off 36,000 more teachers; stop government services, such as transportation projects; cut back on fire, police and emergency services; and deny services to the elderly and people in need, all for the sake of smaller government.

The latest trend of hiring long-term substitutes or independent contractors denies those people of being able to contribute to CalPERS as well as denying them of pay raises, benefits or the ability to receive a pension.

Then, they complain when the CalPERS pension fund is going belly-up?

Did it ever occur to anyone that they need to have people working and contributing to the fund to keep it afloat?

Sure, people are retiring and living longer, but those people should be replaced in the work force, with full benefits, to keep the contributions to the fund coming in.

This applies to Social Security, Medicare and FICA taxes, to keep those funds viable as well.

We are blessed to live in such a wonderful country and should be proud to support it. As Barack Obama says, we don't need smaller government, we need smarter government.

~ Kathleen Cappella,
Simi Valley

According to Governor Schwarzenegger, "Our current primary system drives candidates to the extreme left or right because they have to appeal to the most hardcore Democrat or Republican voters." That is why he backs Proposition 14. On the face of it, to nonthinking people, this sounds plausible. Please consider the following:

1. With an open primary, is it likely that you and I will change our philosophy of big government versus small government?


2. Will an open primary change our mind regarding marriage, immigration or taxation?


3. With the current governor, we have seen a person that has been all over the map on his policies. My guess is that he would have been likely voted for in an open primary. Knowing what he has done for/to this State, would you have voted for him now?

~ William "Bill" Hicks,
Newbury Park

As civic leaders, the health and safety of our community is our primary responsibility. The election of the next Sheriff of Ventura County will present a critical decision for the voters of the city of Thousand Oaks and the rest of Ventura County. As your elected representatives, we have had the opportunity to work with an outstanding leader in the Ventura County Sheriff's Department, Chief Geoff Dean.

Dean is the right man at the right time to lead the Ventura County Sheriff's Department. At a time of fiscal uncertainty in all levels of government, difficult but responsible decisions must be made. Dean has the vision, experience and professionalism to make the right decisions. Perhaps more important, Dean has and ability to inspire others, a quality essential to be Sheriff. He has a proven track record of working with fellow law enforcement leaders, elected officials and community residents, like you, which is one reason Dean has earned the support of every Police Chief in Ventura County. As a professional executive in law enforcement, Dean has earned the reputation as a "cop's cop," working his way through the ranks as a young deputy patrolling the streets of Thousand Oaks to overall fiscal and patrol operations for the entire Sheriff's Department.

As councilmember's, we know that a low crime rate, safety in our schools and the comfort to safely walk and play in your neighborhood starts with the members of the Ventura County Sheriff's Department. They deserve a leader and sheriff, who exemplifies their outstanding tradition of protection and service. The men and women of VCSD have spoken, they know who is best qualified to be sheriff, and they choose Chief Geoff Dean.

Councilmember Andrew Fox,
Councilmember Jacqui Irwin,
Councilmember Tom Glancy

Re: Tim Maurice's May 15 column, "Base trauma designation on truth and transparency":

By way of disclaimers, I am on the Community Board for St. John's Regional Medical Center and also have been a member of the medical staff of the Psychology Department at Ventura County Medical Center. I have used emergency rooms at both hospitals and have been hospitalized at VCMC. All were good experiences.

I support trauma designation at St. John's. I recognize that both VCMC and St. John's were deemed qualified for that designation. I am aware that there is a 12-point difference in scoring by the site team from the American College of Surgeons favoring VCMC. I am also aware of factual errors in that scoring and of the resistance by the Ventura County Emergency Medical Services Agency to re-visit the scoring. Fairness and transparency in the process of designating the Trauma Center are important, and their lack will indicate that a biased process led to designation of VCMC.

At the public briefing held the day of the site visits, I asked whether geography were to be considered in the scoring. The response was that geography was not to be considered in the scoring. As a person who lives in Oxnard and is a frequent driver on the 101, I was not happy to hear that answer. From the geographic and demographic perspectives, St. John's is the obvious choice for a Trauma Center.

~ Margaret Cortese,
Oxnard

Re: May 18 article, "Strickland wants backer to moderate debate":

Audra Strickland's minders are afraid to let her out on her own.

They dressed her up in her best frock and sent her off to two debates organized by the local Republicans. When it was time for the League of Women Voters debate (a strictly nonpartisan group that refuses to support or oppose any candidate), she panicked and ran from the scheduled debate between her and our current County Supervisor Linda Parks.

Now, after the negative response Strickland received from the voting public, she wants Linda Parks to debate with duct tape over her mouth. Strickland is demanding that the next debate be moderated by one of her own avowed supporters. The title moderator tells us that this role is supposed to be moderate, not biased in favor of one candidate.

Is the local Republican Party Central Committee (headed by Strickland's mother-in-law) so unsure of its pet candidate that it can't let her out in public? It's time for us to hear the truth instead of the malicious lies that are being printed in many thousands of dollars worth of brochures and fliers Strickland is sending to my house and probably yours just about every day.

Audra, save the paper and the postage. I'm voting for Linda Parks!

Amy Walker-Davis, CMP,
former city of Thousand Oaks Planning Commissioner,
Westlake Village

One way that Audra Strickland wants to generate jobs in our county and grow our tax base is to help businesses zip through today's Tar-Baby swamp of regulations and replace the costly wait that exists today. That alone is starkly different from opponent Linda Parks, who has no pro-business plans and continues to favor tax hikes. Parks needs to get her head out of the spending trough and look around. With 12 percent unemployed (not counting those who've quit job-hunting), our county needs businesses to open here or relocate here instead of friendlier states/counties.

This is consistent with her voting record on the Democratic side of issues ever since switching to Republican 14 years ago to better position herself for a City Council seat in then-predominantly conservative Thousand Oaks. She's hoping to find Republicans who are more interested in wildlife corridors in the mountains than in food on the family table. Parks's runaway liberal priorities are the wrong ones at the wrong time. The wildlife don't need jobs.

No one can rationally blame one Republican assemblywoman in public office for six years for the county's low employment numbers or the state's bad economy. Remember, the Democrats have been in the majority in Sacramento for many years and are responsible for our nearly bankrupt status. Spend-thrift liberals like Parks have spent too much in her 14 years.

~Jan Edwards,
Camarillo

Save Open Space/Santa Monica Mountains (SOS) proudly endorses Supervisor Linda Parks. Supervisor Parks can be trusted to protect the desirability of the Conejo Valley as a wonderful place to live. Her involvement started as a young mother some 20 years ago.

Parks was one of the many Ventura County residents who came to the rescue to help retain the open space zoning of the rugged buffer areas protecting Ventura County from the San Fernando Valley sprawl. Parks has worked for some 20 years to help protect the desirability of the Conejo Valley as a beautiful place to live.

SOS, a nonpartisan organization, works to uphold California state law that mandates open space for the benefit of urban dweller. Open space is necessary not only for the maintenance of the economy of the state, but also for the enjoyment of scenic beauty, recreation and natural resources. (State government Codes 65560-65570)

Vote to re-elect experienced Supervisor Parks, who has a masters in planning. With Parks as Supervisor, the protection of the buffers of open space and rural lands surrounding the Conejo Valley is in the best of hands. The desirability to live in the Conejo Valley continues with the protection of the values of Conejo Valley residents to keep buffers of open space around the urban areas. Supervisor Parks can be trusted to keep the Conejo Valley a very special place.

~ Mary Wiesbrock,
Chairwoman,
Save Open Space/Santa Monica Mountains,
Agoura Hills

Larry Aceves is the best choice to lead California's Educational system

Of the three leading candidates for state superintendent of public instruction, two are current legislators who have created the mess that is today's underfunded, over-regulated California public education system, and one is a successful educational leader with real experience improving schools - Larry Aceves.

The two legislators have cut funding for education by $17 billion in the last two years, relegating California near the bottom in the nation in per pupil expenditures and $2,000 less than the national average. These cuts exceed the total reduction to education that was suffered during the entire seven years of the Great Depression. Now these two have the audacity to seek the highest education office in the State.

One fashions herself as an education reformer when she has never taught in a K-12 classroom nor led an educational institution of any form. Her attempts to bludgeon teachers and principals to success ignore the fact that improvement in student learning requires the commitment and support of teachers and principals. The other legislator is a typical politician (and a really nice guy) who is unlikely to present any ideas for real improvement in schools and has demonstrated little inclination to fight for our students.

The only real choice for State Superintendent is a superintendent for superintendent - Larry Aceves. Attending public schools through college in the San Diego area, serving as a K-12 teacher, principal, assistant superintendent and superintendent in several school districts has prepared Larry as a well respected, proven educational leader and differentiated him as the only candidate who has led a school district. Most importantly, Larry Aceves is not a partisan politician, and he knows how to bring people together to solve problems. That's why he earned the endorsement of the state's largest newspaper.

Please vote for Larry Aceves for state superintendent of public instruction.

~ Charles Weis, Ph.D.,
Santa Clara County Superintendent of Schools,
Past Ventura County Superintendent of Schools,
ACSA President,
CCSESA Past-President,
San Jose

It's time again for the political junk mail. This week I received a "hit piece" attacking Audra Strickland, which was sent to me by The Coalition for Responsible Government. I Googled them and found out they are none other than the SEIU Local 721 - The Government Employees Union. These are the folks whose pensions are bankrupting our County, and they title their organization this way?

All of us are struggling and many have been laid off, and yet, how many public employees have been laid off compared to the private sector? Not only does the private sector take the brunt of the layoffs, but then the taxes of regular people like you and me have to pay for these public employees' benefits. These folks are acting like thugs with this masked junk mailer and if they are against Audra Strickland - then I am totally for her. I will cast my vote June 8 for Audra Strickland.

Pastor Rob McCoy,
Newbury Park

How many times are opponents of the Stricklands going to use the career politician rant? Are you same people going to bring this up when the governor's race heats up and Jerry Brown's face is everywhere again? Or when Barbara Boxer kicks off her campaign? I have had the same occupation for more than 20 years, am I evil? How long has Linda Parks held a public office? How many different offices has she held? Is your logic condemning her for her public service?

Audra has represented that area for six years and would like to continue to do so. She is a dedicated servant willing to listen and learn. She has lived in Thousand Oaks in the past. Get over it and concentrate on the pros and cons of the candidates.

~ Frank Mills,
Ventura

Re: your May 18 article, "Strickland wants backer to moderate debate":

This speaks volumes about Audra Strickland's character. It is a bit unfortunate, however, because it's never fun when an adversary doesn't want to play fair. Still, the old code of chivalry dictates that the challenger allow her opponent to set the parameters of the debate.

Good luck with the campaign.

~ Ricardo Flores Magon,
Santa Paula

During a recent Senate committee inquiry, executives of Goldman Sachs were repeatedly maligned by innuendo. Sen. Carl Levin. D-MI, and other committee members questioned the conflict of interest between investment banks and the rating agencies. The point is that the likes of Goldman Sachs were bringing securities to the market and paying for the ratings by Standard & Poors, Moody's and Fitch, thus, a conflict of interest.

Not so fast Senator Levin and other committee members. The three agencies are required by Congressional legislation and U.S. law to rate all debt securities for both the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Federal Reserve. They have been officially anointed. I would expect the committee and staffers to know the basics before they impugn those in front of them. Then again, Washington politicians are magicians - now you see it now you don't.

~ Robert Pisapia,
Westlake Village

Re: May 17 article, "Strickland wants backer to moderate debate":

I am so tired of Audra Strickland's unethical and hate-filled campaign. After being barraged daily with her hate mailers, which don't speak of issues anywhere, I requested to be removed from their mailing list. Now, I read an article in The Star that says Ms Strickland wants Rick Lemmo to moderate their debate. He is one of her supporters and hosted the coffee that Strickland says prevented her from attending the original debate.

Linda Parks wants an impartial moderator, and The League of Women Voters agreed. Ms. Strickland says it's too late to change moderators. Linda has the right and the moral values to want someone impartial. Strickland is now accusing Linda of trying to back out. Another trick pulled out of Ms Strickland's bag of tricks. Another way to not get this debate to happen.

This campaign on Strickland's part is so vile. Do you want someone who moves to Thousand Oaks only to run for supervisor because she couldn't run for another office? Do you want someone for supervisor who is so filled with hate and lies, doesn't address issues and is unethical?

No, you do not. Vote for Linda Parks. She has served us well. The Ahmanson Ranch project was stopped as well as keeping our county from turning into the San Fernando Valley. Vote for honesty, ethics and the true desire to help and preserve our community and county.

Vote for Linda Parks

~ Wendy Judd,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 17 article, "Strickland wants backer to moderate debate":

Audra Strickland could be applauded for her manipulation of her debate with incumbent Linda Parks if it were not for its blatant juvenile transparency. Her last-minute cancellation of the long-awaited debate with Linda Parks along with agreed upon League of Women voters as moderators was nothing short of deliberate gerrymandering.

Ms. Strickland now proposes that the debates resume but with her own promoter, Rick Lemo, as the moderator rather than the prescheduled broadband, nonpartisan
League of Women Voters.

Interestingly, Rick Lemo happens to be the primary promoter of Thousand Oaks Boulevard commercial developement programs and does not necessarily have enough knowledge of the 23rd District's broad scope of vital issues.

We need a 23rd District Supervisor with devotion, experience and above all integrity. Linda Parks is still our best provider of all these aspects .

~Elinor Gustafson,
Thousand Oaks

Audra Strickland claims her first priority is job creation, but her record says otherwise.

When Mrs. Strickland took office as an assembly member in December 2004, California's unemployment rate was 5.7 percent. As of March 2010, it was 13 percent. (The source for both figures is the US Bureau of Labor Statistics:http://is.gd/ceTts.)

With a record like that, it's clear the slogan "her priorities are your priorities" is false advertising. Her priority is her - namely keeping her job, any job, on the public payroll.

Audra Strickland's economic chicanery is the last thing we need. I'm supporting Supervisor Linda Parks in the June 8 election.

~ David Newman,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 17 article, "Strickland wants backer to moderate debate":

It is incredible to me that weeks before the election, Audra Strickland is still afraid to have an independent moderator ask her questions about what she will do for the residents of Ventura County if elected. Not even her supporters have been able to write anything substantive about anything that she has personally accomplished as an elected representative. Besides authoring bills for bingo and how to kill trapped animals (which was vetoed), exactly what has she done for us?

All of her mailers, albeit filled with falsehoods and mischaracterizations, focus on Linda Parks. Supervisor Parks has a lengthy list of accomplishments involving actions to keep the county running in the black with a surplus, measures to protect our health and safety and specific actions and ordinances to better the lives of all segments of our population. No wonder Strickland will not agree to a normal, nonpartisan debate with an impartial moderator.

If she will not even support fairness in the election process and abide by debate parameters that were used for our presidential election, how can anyone expect that Strickland will suddenly employ openness and fair dealings with all of her constituents if she is elected to this nonpartisan office? With Parks on the Board of Supervisors, it is functioning as a cohesive and effective board, keeping the county fiscally strong. Let's keep it that way and re-elect Parks.

Alyse Lazar,
Thousand Oaks

I just returned from the Civic Art Plaza, which hosted a publicized debate for County Supervisor and Sheriff. I'm so disappointed Mrs. Strickland was a no-show. This was a televised event and the best opportunity for the public to confirm its choices.

At least we found out where Strickland was. There was a letter circulating in the audience on an Audra Strickland letterhead stationary, written by Rick Lemmo. The letterhead read, Audra Strickland, Ventura County Supervisor, District 2. Rick Lemmo explains he's hosting a discussion for the future with Mrs. Strickland and sent it to select people. Doesn't she have to win first to have such discussions or use a letterhead that misconstrues her title?

Shouldn't she have been at the debate rather with her supporters? Will she only serve her supporters if she is elected? We missed you Audra. You'll have to let us know what came out of your discussion with your supporters. None of us at the debate could attend both since they were held at the same time. That was really bad last-minute planning.

Thank You Carpenter and Dean for serving the public with your presence again. The choice for integrity, honesty and class are pretty apparent. Linda Parks is always there for us, no special invitation was needed.

~ Marilee Ullmann,
Thousand Oaks

We are honored to express our support for Geoff Dean as our next Sheriff. Geoff Dean possesses the qualities we look for in our law enforcement leaders. He has 32 years of distinguished service with the Ventura County Sheriff's Department, a demonstrated record of effective ethical leadership and is known for getting things done.

We are facing unprecedented challenges in Ventura County law enforcement. These challenges will require creative thinking, problem solving and not relying on traditional methods to achieve our goals. Geoff's skill set is unmatched in this race. He is a person of character and a person of action. He has the technical, interpersonal and conceptual skills to lead us into the next decade and make our communities safer.

Geoff has established solid community partnerships throughout Ventura County. His collaborative nature and his inclusive leadership style are critical keys to his success in solving crime and demonstrating his commitment to community policing and problem solving. This is why all of us, the independent chiefs of police in the county, support Geoff and are excited about him being our next sheriff.

At the most critical time in our local government's history, we need solid experience and strong leadership. We need a leader who walks their talk. During his career and during this campaign, Geoff is the candidate who has done just that. This is why we are voting for Geoff Dean for Ventura County Sheriff, and we ask you to do the same.

Chief John Crombach, Oxnard Police Department,
Chief Mike Lewis, Simi Valley Police Department,
Chief Ken Corney, Ventura Police Department,
Chief Steve McKinnon, Santa Paula Police Department,
Chief Fernando Estrella, Port Hueneme Police Department

The May 17 Ventura City Council Meeting was very poignant indeed. So many lives are saved by our wonderful firefighters. We need every one of them and their stations. We need police services to meet the needs of our city, libraries to enrich our citizens, parks and our community pool to keep us healthy, our roads paved, our streetlights working, support for the arts and clean beaches so we can enjoy a quality of life in our beautiful city.

Many seem to be focused on finding somewhere else to cut the budget. We are out of places. The state has taken our local funds and our public library funding. The deficit burden should not be placed on city workers alone.

The cost of everything has gone up. We pay more for gas, groceries, and we need to pay more to preserve the city services we need. Other cities pay more taxes than we do. Nobody likes taxes, but service is the product the city provides to us. Salaries are the cost of service. Yes, city workers have and should contribute during these tough economic times, but so should the rest of us.

One gentleman at the council meeting said he had planned a fishing trip, but when the bills came in he had to postpone it. I suggest we all postpone a few things and cut a few corners to preserve the city services we need. The times call for shared sacrifice.

I would like to see a discussion of the services that are essential to the quality of life in Ventura, an assessment of the cost of providing these services and support for a tax structure to sustain us during these difficult times.

~ Marianne Coffey,
Ventura

It is not surprising that the five sheriff's command staff who serve at the will of the sheriff are supporting his candidate. But what are the independent law enforcement and community leaders doing? The independent city police chiefs in Ventura County, former Ventura County Sheriffs Gillespie and Larry "Carp" Carpenter and former District Attorney Michael Bradbury are supporting Geoff Dean. The Deputy Sheriffs Association as well as every organization representing the men and women on the front lines of public safety including: officers, firefighters and prosecutors are supporting Cmdr. Dean. Elected officials and community leaders from all over the county are supporting Dean.

These are all people who have worked with him and know he is not only a man of integrity and strong character, but exceptionally qualified for the job. Mr. Dean has experience running three of four departments with leadership that was proactive, respected and effective in order to earn this support. His positive campaign is further evidence that he is the right person to be the next Ventura County Sheriff.

It is unfortunate that the opposing campaign cannot win based on a positive, experienced leadership record and keep repeating and twisting the same old news - even releasing partial statements from private documents. How unbecoming of the position that our current sheriff feels that only he should appoint the next sheriff rather than the voters.

There are challenges ahead, and we need the best proven leadership available. Vote for Geoff Dean.


~Dianne McKay,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 15 article, "Bar Association Ratings Disputed":

Candidate Robert Taylor's comments about the rating process are ridiculous. There's no "tight-knit group" conducting the ratings. I've been practicing law here for 20 years. I receive evaluation forms, I never know who sends them, and the forms allow me to keep my name anonymous. He was rated as unqualified because he is.

On the other hand, Gay Conroy was rated exceptionally well qualified because she is. She gives you a fair hearing and then makes a reasoned decision based on the facts and the law. I'm voting for Conroy!

~ Michael J. Smith, Esq.,
Ventura

It is time for the taxpayers of Thousand Oaks to stand up and say enough is enough.

Our City Council has lost its way and has joined our State Legislature and Congress in a wild party of spending other people's money.

Several years ago they hired a city manager and gave him a great salary and a guarantee of 40 days vacation. In the private sector, how many people get 40 days vacation?

Earlier this year, in spite of the recession the council gave the city employees a raise.

The council voted to purchase four properties that it had no need for, but thought was a good idea. That idea commits the city to more than $3 million.

Then because its great developement project of The Lakes was in trouble, it voted to hire a consultant for more than $90,000, to advise how to improve the business at The Lakes. Why we the city would do that instead of the developer, I have no idea.

The big idea coming from the consultant is that the city should convert street parking to angular, providing 14 more parking spaces. Never mind that there is a parking lot behind the project. The angle parking will cost an estimated $400,000. The council asked the developer to contribute $100,000 of that cost, with the city paying $300,000. This was approved.

Explain to me why the taxpayers should be paying for this project.

Now the city is prepared to buy out 40 employees to reduce costs. That only tells me, we have been paying for 40 more people than are needed. Why? Where is the high-priced xity manager?

I have been a big fan of Thousand Oaks, but I see we must dump the incumbants of the City Council, and elect people who realize they are working for the taxpayers, and only the taxpayers.

~ Robert Purbeck,
Thousand Oaks

I have known Geoff Dean since 1981 when I was sworn in as a Deputy for the Ventura County Sheriff's Department. I was privileged to work with him for many years in various capacities, but in particular on the Sheriff Department's SWAT team as a deputy, senior deputy and sergeant in many intense and sometimes critical situations. My experiences during that time on the SWAT team showed all of us that worked with him a lot of Geoff's character -- he was and is a rock solid decision-maker and leader.

His decision-making ability, character and positive resolve were a constant hallmark of his leadership as he was repeatedly promoted through the ranks, taking on ever more responsibility. He eventually led three of the four divisions within the department, demonstrating how he works effectively with other leaders throughout the community. This fact highlights the recommendations given to Geoff by every police chief in Ventura County. These individuals have worked with Geoff over the years and have witnessed first hand the effective leadership for which Geoff is well known throughout the county.

Whether I'm advising Geoff on terrorism issues -- or asking his advice on leadership issues when I served as the director of security policy at the Ministry of Interior, in Iraq (2003-2004) -- I have witnessed leadership and integrity at every turn. It is my distinct pleasure to endorse Geoff Dean as the next Sheriff for Ventura County.

~ David W. Brannan,
Center for Homeland Security and Defense,
Naval Postgraduate School,
Monterey

Linda Parks has served us very well as a Ventura County supervisor and should be re-elected. She has proved herself to be both thoughtful and frugal, working effectively with other supervisors to keep Ventura County on a sound financial footing and make good use of our limited resources in difficult economic times. She happens to be a Republican, but more importantly, is an intelligent, hard-working long-time resident of District 2 who focuses on doing the work of running our county, rather than partisan politics.

Linda's opponent, Audra Strickland, seems quite the opposite. She has been shopping around for a job in politics after being termed out of her assembly seat, finally moving into District 2 to run for supervisor. Do not be fooled by Audra's deceptive campaign literature and her appeal to partisanship in what is supposed to be a nonpartisan race. A vote for Audra is not a vote for lower taxes or a better business climate. It is a vote for the kind of partisan gridlock that has done so much damage to the state of California. It is a vote for someone who does not appear to have a good understanding of the actual business of governing Ventura County, but who will say whatever she thinks it takes to get another political job.

I encourage you to vote for intelligent and effective county government by voting for Linda Parks.

~ Janice Davis,
Thousand Oaks

Re: May 13 article, "Thousand Oaks approves angled parking for The Lakes":

The city's $400,000 parking solution to the retail flop should be rejected. Thousand Oaks shopping is not like the movie refrain from "Field of dreams," "If you build it, they will come" as customers drive businesses, not driving gimmicks and parking special effects. So, "If you angle it, they will park" is good in Hollywood, but not good in the real world.

The City Council needs to get out of the retail business and do what they really do best; wait, what is that? For the cost of a $77,970 study I'll get back to you with an angle on that answer. Maybe Andy Fox can tell you all what bargain that is?

~ Kevin O'Leary,
Thousand Oaks

I had been looking forward to the debate between Linda Parks and Audra Strickland for two months. What a disappointment to attend and find Audra had a representative for herself there. Here was one chance for her to show herself to us and she balked.

She had Tom Glancy make a statement for her. In part, it read, "We do not need to look too far to be reminded of the down economy that exists today." Then the statement made reference to closed businesses in Thousand Oaks. Audra, really? That's especially true here in Moorpark. Many of our shopping centers are part or half empty, industrial spaces vacant. So why, then, did she look further? So far even to move there to run in that district, while there was an open seat here.

I think I know the answer. To keep the flow of money coming from special interests and the GOP. Strickland could not run against Foy here in the 4th District. He's a comrade of hers in the GOP. The money coming from these sources are hundreds of thousands of dollars. They are funding a very juvenile slur campaign against Linda Parks. Linda, who has an honest record of working on local issues of top priority to the people. Linda, who has kept to campaign funding limits of $700 per individual donation. No money from any special interests.

So people remember to look no further and cast your vote by Tuesday, June the 8, for Linda Parks. It's free! Let's show Audra money isn't everything.

Sharon Noel,
Moorpark

If you don't like our current political system, where most politicians are bought and paid for, then you should vote yes on Proposition 15. This proposition will introduce a pilot program of voluntary public financing on campaigns in the 2014 and 2018 races for Secretary of State. Proposition 15 also will make it legal for counties and cities to come up with their own public funding of campaigns programs. This is a major change because it is currently illegal for local municipalities to offer public funding of campaigns.

The money for the Secretary of State races would come from an increase in fees on lobbyists, lobbyist firms and lobbyist employers. Lobbyists currently pay only $12.50 per year to register with the state. With Prop. 15 this will increase to $350.00 per year. Proposition 15 starts us on the road to getting California politicians out of the fundraising game and leveling the playing field so that our elections are not bought, they are won.

~ Chris Webb,
Newbury Park

On June 8, I will be voting for Republican Tom Watson for Congress in the 23rd Congressional District.

Watson is a candidate with integrity, strength and substance. He has had an extensive military career and as such will defend and protect America. His business experience will help him deal with an unstable economy.

A vote for Tom Watson is a vote for a down to earth American, not a fancy-speaking politician.

~ Diana Thorn,
Carpinteria

It's Friday afternoon, and I'm on my cozy couch, a fun book to enjoy, a cup of tea and then the shattering of a peaceful afternoon, via the ring of my telephone. One contractor wishing to give a free estimate, one credit card company and three, yes three political auto-dial pitches.

These unsolicited auto calls have been dribbling in for the past few weeks, and I fear this is the start of the serious onslaught. Other than not answering my phone, I realize I have no control. I can, however, refuse to vote for any candidate who invades my home in this manner.

~ Peggy Rothring,
Thousand Oaks

Nancy Pelosi's recent appeal to Catholic clergy to preach about immigration from the pulpit rings hollow. Certainly, there needs to be room for compassion for all immigrants, but where is her concern for the unborn as well? Do not Gospel values demand that they be protected? Speaker Pelosi has been a steadfast supporter of abortion despite her repeated claims of being a practicing Catholic. How can anyone claim to be living a life faithful to the Church and her teachings while supporting abortion rights? Does not abortion (i.e. the deliberate destruction of an innocent unborn human) directly violate the 5th Commandment: Thou shall not kill?

Noel D'Angelo,
Thousand Oaks

Arizona's ban on ethnic studies (Chican Studies) has similarities to our treatment of local history in which the influences of historical peoples tends to be eliminated and replaced by impact of the Oxnard brothers and so-called pioneers. Local historians suggest local life began with the brothers who incorporated Oxnard and omit imporant historical political and social facts such as racism, segregation and a system of white supremacy that became an important local ingredient.

No mention is made that the Oxnard School District was found guilty of segregation as a result Juan Soria's (a local advocate) lawsuit or that local police, sometimes accompanied by Port Hueneme Seabees, targeted Mexicans patronizing local saloons for beatings, some of which resulted in fatalities, or that students were suspended from school for speaking Spanish, their primary language.

There is a danger of eradicating these important facts from Oxnard history forever. Like it or not, without including the distasteful, we cannot be assured that Oxnard history will be honestly and accurately depicted.

Miguel Espinosa,
Oxnard

Stop crime and arrest all illegal activity on the street, including those persons with contagious diseases who refused a medical background check as required by the nearest U.S. Embassy. Protect our homes and children. Vote Dennis Carpenter for Ventura County Sheriff on June 8.

Jeffrey Ketelsen,
Ojai

Hurray for Arizona. Someone finally got it right on illegal immigrants. Gov. Jan Brewer should be given a medal and a pat on her back. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and the governor's of the other 48 states need to follow Brewer's lead.

California Senate leader Darrel Steinberg needs to be given a pink slip. He is definitely not for the citizens of California, and, all candidates running to be governor of California had better take heed: no amnesty. If you are an illegal immigrant in the U.S., you must leave immediately or be deported. No ifs, ands or buts.

I vow not to vote for any pro-amnesty candidates. Let's take a national vote and let the majority rule on amnesty. Politicians are only worried about the Latino vote. It doesn't take an Enstein to figure this out.

Also, all illegal immigrants in prison must be deported immediately. No more free room and board and medical care. This will save millions of taxpayer money.

Frank Struniak,
Newbury Park

We need this Fire Station. We live off Montgomery and my husband had a heart attack in December of 2007. Fire Station 4 was the first to respond. They were there within four minutes. Had it been longer, my husband might not be alive today. They started working on him right away. He was rushed to Community Memorial Hospital and had a stent put in. I am grateful for Fire Station 4. Please don't let them close it. This could be one of your family members in the same situation.

Connie Gajefski,
Ventura

My Dad Mark Lunn is running for Ventura County Clerk and Recorder. As Mark's daughter, I can truly attest to his character and honesty. I grew up with a dad who risked his life every day to keep our community safe, and I watched him do this for the majority of my life.

My dad is running for this position to do what he did for over three decades, and that is to be a public servant. He knows how to serve the public well, as he has proved over the years to be an outstanding leader. It breaks my heart to hear the false accusations, that are being made against my Dad. I see his signs that have been ripped down and/or cut in half, and it honestly sickens me. My whole family is invested in this process. I like to think we are all running for Clerk and Recorder. Being around for every step in this election process, I can assure you that my Dad has handled every task with integrity, honesty and class.

It is important to remember that my Dad isn't a politician; he hasn't run for any public office. He would like this position because it is yet another opportunity to serve our community. It took a great deal of leadership to be the Chief of the California Highway Patrol, and this gives me all the faith in the world that my Dad can run the County Clerk and Recorder's office with efficiency and honor.

Lauren Lunn,
Newbury Park

Re: May 15 column, "It's a matter of states rights and civil rights":

What a refreshing and well researched article. This should be required reading for all students. Get the facts before you criticize or condemn.

My wife and I have a home in Italy and travel not only in Italy but bordering countries. You are required to have your passport at all times and are frequently asked to show identification. I make a point of thanking the inspector/officer for protecting my security.

The United States is the only country in the World that doesn't do this.

It is my opinion that we, as Americans, have hit the wall, and the Arizona immigration law was a blessing in disguise. A wake-up call that is polarizing us.

As a 32-year resident of Thousand Oaks and a reader of the News Chronicle/Star, this is by far one of the best and most well balanced columns I have ever read. Thank you Star and thank you Robert J. Meadows.

~Victor Rinaldi,
Thousand Oaks