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Opinion
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- Written by: Joyce Campbell
I am a retired Lake County deputy district attorney. My career with the D.A.'s office spanned from 1985 through and beyond 2005.
I had the distinct honor and pleasure of working with Jon Hopkins and receiving extended training in many areas important for a prosecutor.
I know Don Anderson, and know him to be a pleasant person and private attorney. I know Doug Rhoades and worked with him on many criminal cases. I found Mr. Rhoades to be generally polite, respectful and competent.
But I am sending this letter because I believe it is crucial for the citizens of Lake County and the effectiveness of the Office of District Attorney to consider the qualifications that only Jon Hopkins possesses.
Every lawyer knows that “qualifying” someone to be an “expert” takes into consideration that person's training, education and experience. Only Jon Hopkins excels in each of those categories to fill the position of district attorney.
I hope that every voter will take the time to compare the qualifications and vote accordingly.
Joyce Campbell lives in Lakeport.
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- Written by: Marsha Chalk
There have been many attempts to discredit Jon Hopkins' work as district attorney, and to belittle and demean his commitment to public safety and victims of crime in Lake County. This serves no purpose other than attempt to turn voters' heads and try to convince them that other candidates with no prosecution experience are somehow more fit to run a complex office.
Although one case takes the headlines and many disagree with the decision to prosecute that case, we should all look beyond that case and give credit for Jon's many accomplishments and distinguished 38-year career.
Concerned voters should know that Jon has successfully prosecuted a man who raped and murdered a 4-year-old child, men who beat to death a man they simply decided to kill, a man who killed his own parents in order to steal their money, and many more cases that needed a strong prosecutor to bring justice and closure for the victims.
I have known Jon for many years both professionally and personally. He has a reputation of integrity and deep respect for the community he serves.
I urge you to cast your vote for Jon Hopkins, the only qualified candidate for district attorney.
Marsha Chalk lives in Kelseyville.
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- Written by: Chris Hansen
I’ve been following the race for district attorney with great interest for the last few months. The passions are high and nearly everyone has a strong opinion about the three candidates.
Many are bent on judging a man’s career based on a single case, others believe any change in the office would be for the better, and some even see a law enforcement conspiracy in Lake County.
This past weekend things got a little more interesting. We find in a Press Democrat (5/29) article that one challenger apparently has gotten himself into some serious financial problems. In a letter to the Record Bee (5/29), a former client of the other challenger claims that his negligent handling of her case cost her some serious money. And I was looking for perfection in a candidate. Go figure!
I am not one who believes that change for the sake of change would be for the better. In fact, it could be disastrous. In Jon Hopkins I see a prosecutor with 38 years of professional experience and a long track record of being strong on crime and unwilling to plea bargain away our quality of life.
We need a district attorney willing to go after the DUIs, drug dealers, elder abuse cases and the growing gang problem. It would be foolish to entrust such a large, critical department to the operational control and management of either challenger. Both lack the prosecutorial and executive experience to effectively perform as Lake County District Attorney.
Seriously, folks, there is only one sensible choice. I hope you will join me in supporting Jon Hopkins on June 8.
Chris Hansen lives in Kelseyville.
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- Written by: Jim Marschall
As a lifelong resident of Kelseyville and a teacher for many years I have seen many teachers, principals and superintendents (local and county) come and go. All of them have made, good or not so good, impressions on someone in Lake County.
Almost 30 years ago, when I was on the Kelseyville School Board, we hired an energetic young man named Wally Holbrook to be a principal. We were not disappointed in the choice we had made. Wally took the reins and went work. He led the teachers and students in a very positive direction. Of course not all interactions went smoothly, but when do they ever. Wally has the ability to listen before jumping to a conclusion.
In later years Wally applied for and was selected to be the superintendent of the Kelseyville Unified School District. During his time as superintendent, Wally faced many difficult decisions. Being the top leader is not always popular. Wally gathered information and made informed decisions. I do feel that Wally had the students at heart.
Later Wally became a superintendent in Winters. He retired there and moved back to Kelseyville. Being the active person that Wally is, he worked for a company that mentored new administrators.
There seems to be some rumors that Wally received money from our local schools. Well, the company contracted with local schools so I would say he got paid for his services. Not too many people work at a job for free.
Wally is very committed to quality education for all of our students. Wally believes that high school students should be educated for vocational training as well as for the college system.
So please join me and vote on June 8, 2010, for Wally Holbrook, county superintendent of schools.
Jim Marschall lives in Kelseyville.