Letter: Emerson is well prepared to be mayor
I'm a grant writer and project manager in affordable housing, generally in Monterey County, East Bay, or out-of-state. This February I went to Sacramento for an all-day workshop sponsored by the State Department of Housing and Community Development to explain their radically revised grant application regulations for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. It was the first in a series held around the state. At 9 a.m., I looked at the table to the left of me, and there was Doug Emerson! On his own time, he had volunteered to attend the workshop so that Hollister/San Benito/local non-profit staff could get a jump on finding out how to fill out the applications, instead of waiting three weeks later for the workshop in Salinas. I consider this a typical example of his practical approach, unselfishness, and understanding of how to get things done. He straightened out the mess with the state over the CDBG grant that prevented the City of Hollister for applying for funds for something like eight years. He's sensible, well prepared in his Council deliberations and has a proven track record in collaboration and partnership building. I think he's exactly what we need for the brightest possible future for our community.
Guest View: Perplexed by doubts on the rally
I have a confession to make. I don’t read the Free Lance newspaper very often. As a writer and a business owner in town that may seem shameful, but it may also be the reason that I pass on it.
Letter: Our way of life?
What I’ve noticed in this campaign blitz to defeat “Yes on Measure J” (because it’s obvious) is that there are several propaganda tactics being used by the No on J coalition to manipulate public opinion. The most obvious and insidious one is:
Letter: McCullough for hospital board
As a long time friend of Mary McCullough, I am writing this letter in support of her re-election to the Board of the San Benito Health Care District. Mary has served on the board for 32 years, providing countless hours of work and leadership supporting the hospital district. Her energy and dedication to the District have been unmatched over her years of service.
Letter: ‘Aromas Cares’ is one-sided on fracking
After reading the recent articles in your paper covering fracking, I wanted to share my recent experience with you regarding the anti-fracking group, Aromas Cares For the Environment. I did not want what I consider their extremist one-sided views to go unchallenged. Please read my comments below and at least consider that there is a side to the story that you will not hear listening only to members of "Aromas Cares for the Environment". I am sure I would be hoping for to much to wish for you to place my comments in the editorial section of your paper, but I think they would serve the community well to read them.
Arizona tries to revive Proposition 187
Proposition 187 is dead. That's the common wisdom, even if it's
Column: Don’t frack with our logo
Last week we published a piece distancing this newspaper from the political campaign to oppose Measure J, which has prominently featured our logo. The campaign is centered around some quotes picked from a May piece that represents the opinions of community members who served on a volunteer editorial board.











