Opinion
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- Written by: Daniel Felperin
What we need is common purpose that doesn’t involve war. We need to focus and concentrate on a national mission that will continue to keep America safe, secure and sustainable.
That “moon project” in my opinion needs to be the pursuit of personal energy independence. After all, “independence” is a core tenet on which our democracy was founded.
If we are to aspire to be a truly free society, then energy self-reliance is at the center.
The economic ramifications of energy supply disruptions will be crippling to the health of communities impacted by them.
This does not have to be the case.
We can become more distributed as an energy-producing nation creating plenty of new job opportunities in the process.
One simplistic idea might be government-subsidized solar photovoltaic modules.
This idea would go beyond rebates and tax credits. The government would produce and subsidize (finance) the cost of the widget (PV module) making the subsequent homeowner (business) investment irresistible.
This could be funded in a similar fashion to how the $25 US savings bonds were rolled out in the 1960s – just one idea.
Populist frustration is at an all-time high and congressional approval is at an all-time low. We need to find common ground badly.
I submit that we already have the ability (but lack the motivation-will) to improve the quality of our very own lives by investing in emerging technologies like PV and electric transportation.
We need to energize ourselves and our children if we are to survive a future of diminishing resources.
So I challenge all you couch-activists to take immediate personal action to evaluate your consumption patterns and work consistently towards breaking the chains of indentured utility servitude and begin living the energy-independent American dream!
Daniel Felperin lives in Cobb, Calif.
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- Written by: Pat Hallman and Babe Vecellio
The South Lake County Fire Sirens wish to thank all the local publishers for supporting our successful Holiday Boutique on Saturday, Nov. 19, held at the Middletown Fire Station on Highway 175.
We couldn't have done it without your help in spreading the word. We raised enough money at this event to help purchase one more life-saving piece of equipment for the South Lake County Fire Protection District.
Our sincere thanks are also extended to the 20 vendors who who participated, as well as the 20 Fire Sirens who worked hard all day long.
A special thanks needs to be extended to Santa Claus (Jack Barker) who came all the way from the North Pole to greet everyone and pass out candy canes.
Thank yous to all the South Lake County firemen who helped set up and tear down tables and chairs and then transport them to storage.
Appreciation is also extended to the residents of Lake County who came out in support and did a lot of Holiday shopping.
Thank you, Lake County for continuing to support the efforts of the South Lake County Fire Sirens at all of our events. Happy and Safe Holidays to you all!
Pat Hallman is president and Babe Vecellio is boutique chairman for the South Lake County Fire Sirens of Middletown, Calif.
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- Written by: Howard Glasser
Lynn was an inseparable part of the tapestry that is the lifeblood of Lake County. She was in many ways, the heart and soul of the community she loved.
She was at the core of values in need of desperate attention – the values of learning, education, the arts and fostering a hunger to explore the greater world beyond ourselves to be found in books.
If one were to write the book on what Lynn Fegan and Catfish Books meant to our community, it would be about service and the belief that we can make a difference in our world and the ripple caused by the rock we throw with intent and purpose will have far reaching effects that keep giving.
What Lynn gave to Lake County will keep giving as it thrives in the lives she touched who will in turn pass the torch for it is up to each of us to stay reminded of what Catfish Books meant to our county and do what we can to keep the flame burning.
Perhaps more than any other single thing, Lynn was about our children and because of her dedication to the young people, she planted seeds for our future that will keep on growing for they will remember and in whatever they may do in life, they will take a part of her with them.
So thank you Lynn Fegan and know that when you close the doors of Catfish Books, there will be a tear on the page but a smile on our lips for we want more than anything for you to have the happiness you so richly deserve because we love you.
Howard Glasser lives in Kelseyville, Calif.
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- Written by: Judy Thein
We are a countywide volunteer educational outreach program designed to raise awareness of the consequences and dangers of DUI through prevention, with the focus on our communities’ youth.
With Thanksgiving approaching, Team DUI would like to take this opportunity to show our thanks to everyone who makes our efforts possible.
Lake County educators: Through your assistance, we are able to carry out our educational prevention program for middle school and high school levels, helping our youth cope with the peer pressure that contributes to underage drinking and drug consumption.
Partners: Whether law enforcement, first responders, organizations, social service providers, educators, media, local officials or individuals, your investment in our mission helps us deliver understanding awareness and educational prevention that has resulted in shifting the culture among our youth, helping make our roads safer.
Volunteers: You are the heart and soul of Team DUI. It is your compassion and determination that drives the organization and it is your tireless efforts that have accomplished so much.
Law enforcement: Your continual high visibility enforcement on roadways helps to reduce the tragic consequences of DUI.
Parents: We are thankful that lines of communication are open that enable youth to speak with their parents, forming agreements to not drink and drive or ride with someone who is under the influence.
Members of the public: We are thankful for your continual support. DUI affects everyone. Driving under the influence is a community problem and it takes a whole community to work together.
Donors: We are thankful that you have chosen to support our educational prevention program this school year. Through your generosity, we will be able to provide banners at Lake County schools with the message: “Team DUI – Teaching Youth About The Dangers Of Driving Under The Influence.”
These banners will help serve as a continual reminder of awareness to students and parents. Your donations will also help to purchase equipment that will further enhance Team DUI presentations at Lake County schools.
The investment of the time and support received from everyone has helped to save lives and reduce injuries. We greatly appreciate your support and continued partnerships. Each of us fulfills a different role, but the message we deliver is very powerful when we work together.
Team DUI wishes everyone a safe and blessed Thanksgiving.
Judy Thein is Team DUI’s founder. She lives in Clearlake, Calif.
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