Opinion

I have been thinking a lot lately about measure Q and the importance of slowing growth, protecting both open space and the environment as well as preserving agriculture in our region. I have had the incredible opportunity, over my lifetime, to spend a considerable...

First, there was the unprecedented move by the board and county to authorize $50,000 in taxpayer dollars to “educate” the public on Measure Q. Why should the county waste these resources when the voter pamphlet already covers the initiative?  And then it arrived, the fully...

In considering how to vote on measure Q, it is important to realize the benefits of a viable local agriculture and the reasons for protecting and promoting it.  One interesting point of clarification in this discussion is that there is a difference between “farmers” and...

From the moment I first learned about the large-scale “Strada Verde development plan,” I had some worries that I would have with any big development: how it would impact our community?  I am not “anti-development,” but a large-scale development will inevitably have an impact....

It’s often said the City of Hollister and San Benito County have a history of not getting along. We want to share a shining example of the city and county working together to enhance economic development opportunities while avoiding sprawl in our community.  In early...

In our society we often forget to really celebrate major milestones, and we almost always don’t understand the significance of a 50th wedding anniversary, 90th and above birthday, 25 years in business, etc. That is why I want to congratulate all the people and...

Re: Safety First, Free Lance 9/2/22 Everyone wants to be safe. Yes, of course, safety first, especially now in this heat wave inside this drought. It seems that we have never been less safe.  So how can we be safe? According to PG&E, we can check gas...

Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital (HHMH), a special healthcare District, was forced to make the very difficult decision to end our contract with Anthem Blue Cross PPO and Anthem Medicare Advantage. This was not a decision taken lightly.  Negotiations with Anthem for an appropriate payment rate...

Being an effective leader requires someone willing to set their ego aside and work together with other members. Listening to each member and treating them equally and with respect is crucial to creating a strong and cohesive team. A true leader does not attempt...

Measure gives voters a chip Re: Monopoly Board and Measure Q From the sky, San Benito County looks like a comfortable green quilt; yet some want this heavenly view to look like a Monopoly board. Let me explain.   Parcels on a Monopoly board start empty. As the...