Opinion

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Written by: James Henderson

Published: 10 July 2008

Bron Locke, you called me delusional and a town crier. Two months ago I asked you to prove your words, to use any means you wished to back up your statements. I will assure you I'm not delusional but I am a town crier trying to spread the word that the grand jury is the lapdog of this local government.

This local government has conspired willingly or not to deny the rights of this citizen and to this date all my charges made have been followed with excuses to cover the malfeasance. I have said before if I lie then charge me with perjury and bring the full weight of the law down on me.

You took an oath and it's your duty to take action when you become aware, or else be just another good person doing nothing.

James Henderson lives in Lakeport.

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Written by: Judy Barnes

Published: 09 July 2008

Ratepayers in Clearlake Oaks need to get answers about why the local water company faces bankruptcy without an immediate rate increase. Some interesting issues were recently raised by Bob and Judy Heeszel of Clearlake Oaks in a letter they wrote. It might be enlightening for those impacted to attend the next water board meeting on July 16 (meetings are the third Wednesday of each month at 3 p.m. at the water company office on Highway 20). These are open to the public and you can address issues of concern not on the agenda which are under the board’s jurisdiction.

The recent rate notice sent out to parcel owners in Clearlake Oaks states that any opposition to a rate increase must be in writing no later than Aug. 16 and that only affected parcel owners can protest (you must be the legal owner of the parcel and clearly identify yourself and your parcel – e.g. your name as it appears on the assessor’s rolls and the assessor parcel number should be included in your written protest). You also have to state which rate increase you are protesting (water, and/or wastewater [sewer]). If 51 percent of parcel owners don’t respond by Aug. 16, then the new rate can go into effect.

We may need a rate increase but it should be reasonable and based on a realistic budget and cost analysis that is clearly and simply explained to ratepayers. This is our water company. We do not want to be taken over by a private company. Please get involved! Attend the public meeting on Saturday, Aug. 16 at 7 p.m. at the Grange Hall on E. Highway 20 in Clearlake Oaks.

Judy Barnes lives in Clearlake Oaks.

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Written by: Scott Fergusson

Published: 08 July 2008

Each year devastating disasters ravage our nation, leaving behind countless victims. Pre-disaster planning can have a dramatic impact on minimizing the tragedy and suffering, resulting in a more efficient and coordinated (non-panicked) response, and will save lives.

Now is the time to prepare for these conditions. Do not wait until it is too late. And, do not be fooled into thinking that only other people are affected. Remember tornadoes, blizzards, floods, earthquakes, fires and car wrecks, can be due to a large number of different reasons, how well you plan, prepare and respond to those situations will determine how well you and your family survive them.

Let's get prepared, people. Make sure you have life insurance, an emergency plan and the tools for the unforeseen event that may change your lives.

Scott Fergusson lives in Middletown.

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