Opinion

The views of many millions of Americans have boiled down to the point where simply everything is political. Fueled by distrust and hate, the demonization of the other side has taken its toll to the point where “they” – whoever “they” may be – are seen as evil personified and the cause of every problem in our complex society. Prepackaged political philosophy now instantly dominates every subject in the public arena and the attacks are so vicious it’s hard to remain unaffected or stand on the sidelines. I guess that’s the object, just stir up your base no matter the consequences.

Two weeks ago, the Hollister School District appointed an individual to its board of trustees to fill a vacancy. One of the four candidates applying for the position ran for school board in the 2014 election and although she did not win, she did very well. With her application, this candidate provided multiple letters of reference from community groups. Someone gave an eloquent speech on her behalf. There were several members of the public, parents, present at the meeting with signs supporting the candidate.

It is heartbreaking to see so many San Benito County families suffering from the floods that recently wreaked havoc on the northern part of this community, near Lovers Lane and close to where San Felipe Road meets Shore Road.