Opinion

Dear editor,

Dear trustees,

Dear editor,

Development and quarrying has already taken a severe toll on sandhills and parkland sandhills, out of what few are left, but invasive species is currently the biggest threat on the Olympia wellfield. I am opposed to the ban that was passed by the new SLVWD board last Thursday because it was passed without a feasible, science based alternative plan for ensuring the protection of these sandhills against invasive species. The few alternatives that I have heard about aren’t even based in reality.

According to the Federal Bureau of Justice Statistics there are over 500,000 shootings per year. As law enforcement executives in Santa Cruz County, each of us individually may have different views of how best to reduce gun violence, but we all committed to providing leadership to prevent and reduce gun violence and to keep our children and teachers safe in our schools. Here are just some of the practices we agree will make a difference.

You don’t need to look far to experience the best of the community stepping up to help those in need right here in our area. For over thirty-five years now Valley Churches United has truly shared the incredible generosity, support and passion of the local community helping our own residents facing hard times. As the Executive Director of Valley Churches United, located in the heart of Ben Lomond, I get to witness the magic of gratitude each and every day. During the holidays, imagine how special those moments are for those who are able to give and also for those who are receiving help in their time of need.