As a voter who appreciates the benefits of Social Security and Medicare, I took note of an article in the conservative magazine, The Economist (April 21-27, 2012), regarding presidential contender Mitt Romney, that stated, “He has also embraced [Republican Congressman Paul] Ryan’s proposal that, starting in 2022, new Medicare beneficiaries should receive a voucher for […]
Opinion
Posted inOpinion
County supervisors really matter
Santa Maria
There’s so much talk and print given to national and state candidates for Washington and Sacramento. But local races are so much more important. Who we elect for county supervisor affects all of more directly. That’s why Joyce Howerton’s run to unseat Joni Gray is a key race this year. She offers us an alternative […]
Posted inOpinion
Why not keep it in the U.S.A.?
Santa Maria
This is regarding your recent Biz Spotlight in the Sun, titled “OhFancyBaby,” (April 19) about a woman who made a profit by encouraging women to use cloth diapers rather than disposables. I applaud any woman who starts a business and becomes successful. The product sounds ideal for mothers who want to save the environment and […]
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The blame was his own
Santa Maria
Regarding “Left behind” (April 26): It’s a sad story about Rosa. Brought here as an infant, then her father gets deported. Here’s the problem as I see it: He knew he was here illegally. He knew his wife and daughter were here illegally. He had his own business that apparently involved driving. Again, illegally. So […]
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Visit Shallowford while you can
Santa Maria
Our family had the good fortune to attend The Battle of Shallowford this past weekend at the Santa Maria Civic Theatre. The play was humorous, entertaining, and just plain fun. Most of the cast is made up of local residents, and all were extremely talented. We are fortunate to have the Santa Maria Civic Theatre […]
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Send a message of fiscal responsibility
Our local leaders need to hear it
I oppose the Santa Maria Measure “U” Sales Tax Increase for the following reasons: The essential services of law enforcement and fire protection should be the top priority of the General Fund and not be exploited for more taxes. The levee and flood prevention is the responsibility of the Santa Barbara County Flood Control District. […]
Posted inOpinion
Should California abolish the death penalty?
Joanna Martinez receptionist “They should be sentenced for life. It doesn’t teach anything to murder someone. Put it in the Lord’s hands, and let him judge them.” Stacy Wilson industrial sales “Each case is unique, but certain heinous crimes deserve the death penalty.” Travis Hanson student “It should not be abolished. But it should only […]
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Finding cash cows starts early in politics
Get to the roots of poor decisions in Lompoc
The floodgates are open with the recent Supreme Court decision in the Citizens United case. The recent GOP primary contest has shown us the power of unlimited corporate secret funding in politics. Needless to say, both the public and media need to be extra vigilant pointing out who is behind these massive waves of advertising […]
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What kind of business does this town need?
Chuck Armenta student “A Sonics.” [image-2] Esther Bautista stay-at-home mom “A Starbucks in the mall.” [image-3] Adam Verduzco retail “Bridal places.” [image-4] Daisy Corona student “A Pink Berry.”
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Puppy love
As National Greyhound Adoption Month comes to a close, a writer reflects on what it’s like to own a ’45-mile-per-hour couch potato’
A couple of months ago, my husband and I took our dog, Sadie, to the Laguna Lake dog park in San Luis Obispo. A woman we know from around town was there with her dog, and as we walked up to her, she smiled bemusedly and asked, “Why does your dog look like a deer?” […]
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Money talks
San Luis Obispo
Americans paid $1.46 billion for dreams of wining the Mega Lotto on March 30. Three lucky individuals did have the winning numbers, and will divide the $656 million. The dollar amount drew the nation’s attention. However, few of us noticed that Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, received a total compensation of $378 million last year (He […]
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Tips from a garage sale addict
Arroyo Grande
OK, I admit I am a garage sale addict. But you must admit garage selling is the ultimate recycling: from your garage to mine. It’s also fun, and it’s like an intriguing treasure hunt! Here is the problem: Garage sale signs! If the signs are left up after the sale, it is confusing for us […]
