Letters to the Editor

Honoring library’s friends
In observance of National Friends of Libraries Week (October
17th to 23rd), I am writing to express my appreciation and public
thanks to the Friends of the San Benito County Free Library who
contribute so much of their time and expertise to enhance our
Library Services.
Since its inception in 1980, the Friends have donated hundreds
of thousands of hours and substantial funding towards the costs of
children’s programming, special collections, family and adult
literacy, facilities enhancements and equipment. In fact, the
Friends ushered our library into the digital era by funding the
Library’s very first computer lab.
The Friends exemplify community leadership, proactively
partnering with community groups and individuals to bring special
programs to the library featuring historical, cultural, artistic,
literary, technical, and educational events, activities and
exhibits. They have worked with the County Librarian, library staff
and County Supervisors for three decades delivering many benefits
to the community. With their support and advocacy, the San Benito
County Library has become a source of pride for our community.
It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the Friends on
their 30th Anniversary. I hope that everyone will seek an
opportunity to call the Library to get information on how they can
join or support this outstanding organization.
Nora Conte
San Benito County Librarian
Honoring library’s friends

In observance of National Friends of Libraries Week (October 17th to 23rd), I am writing to express my appreciation and public thanks to the Friends of the San Benito County Free Library who contribute so much of their time and expertise to enhance our Library Services.

Since its inception in 1980, the Friends have donated hundreds of thousands of hours and substantial funding towards the costs of children’s programming, special collections, family and adult literacy, facilities enhancements and equipment. In fact, the Friends ushered our library into the digital era by funding the Library’s very first computer lab.

The Friends exemplify community leadership, proactively partnering with community groups and individuals to bring special programs to the library featuring historical, cultural, artistic, literary, technical, and educational events, activities and exhibits. They have worked with the County Librarian, library staff and County Supervisors for three decades delivering many benefits to the community. With their support and advocacy, the San Benito County Library has become a source of pride for our community.

It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the Friends on their 30th Anniversary. I hope that everyone will seek an opportunity to call the Library to get information on how they can join or support this outstanding organization.

Nora Conte

San Benito County Librarian

Thompson has integrity

As a retired employee of the San Benito County Sheriff’s department, I have had an opportunity to observe many individuals handle a variety of issues under pressure, and to learn their character traits and work ethic.

After meeting Darren Thompson and learning about his concern and love for our community as well as his integrity and many years of experience in law enforcement, I am looking forward to what he can do to help us tackle the problems we face in San Benito County and I wish to thank him for running for Sheriff. 

Mr. Thompson, a long-term resident of Hollister, is currently employed with the Watsonville Police Department and has a proven record of success in dealing with major issues, calmly and reasonably.  I will continue to support him and encourage others to do the same. 

I hope every individual in this community takes the time to make an informed decision prior to voting in November.   

Sylvia Sims DeLay,

Retired correctional officer 

Insider’s view of Fortino

As the two oldest employees of Phil Fortino (over 30+ years each), we think we have a unique viewpoint about Phil and wanted to share it with you. 

As a boss, he always had an open door policy, was ready to listen to us, open to new ideas and expected results.  He was dedicated to his customers, his employees, his family and his community. 

As a man, he is tireless and focused, very giving and generous, and has integrity and principles unmatched.  Beyond that, we could always count on Phil as our leader and our friend.  He is a man of his word.  That is why we are volunteering our time to help get him elected.

The voters of District 4 are lucky to have him run for supervisor.     

Sylvia Jaime and Miguel (Mikey) Melchor,

Hollister

Turturici decries pettiness

Since I embarked on my campaign to become the next sheriff of San Benito County, I have made every attempt to be professional and ethical.

Unfortunately, I have had to endure a great deal of pettiness from people, both professionally and personally. For my supporters to be involved in such activities as removing signs would make the job of our next sheriff more difficult and is not a reflection of what my campaign is working to do. We have a great responsibility as a community to work together to improve safety and the quality of life in this community.

Freedom can only be realized when people in a community can move about freely and safely. This has been the benchmark of my career and will continue to be my focus.

Pat Turturici,

candidate for San Benito County sheriff