Despite opposing redefinition of marriage, Californians have already conceded civil unions to same-sex couples. But gays have rejected anything short of full use of the same word that applies to traditional couples. Therefore, I propose a solution: Marriage obviously means different things to different people, and carries many religious implications. Hence, like separation of church […]
Opinion
Prop 8’s passing presents a problem
The California electorate has approved Proposition 8, deeming marriage to be legal only for couples of one man and one woman. However, a significant legal and procedural problem not addressed in the wording of Proposition 8 remains unresolved. Unless the secretary of state acts immediately to deal with this heretofore-unrecognized threat, the legal veracity of […]
Immigrants aren’t the problem, but they’re part of it
The news item “What’s behind those ads?” by Colin Rigley (Nov. 6) discussing the reaction to TV ads linking immigration to global warming was probably not intentionally biased, but it certainly misrepresented the opinions of many people concerned about unlimited population growth, and certainly didn’t capture the intent of the people who ran the ads. […]
I may not have won, but I’ll keep spreading my message
It has been an honor for me to run for U.S. Congress in the November general election to represent the people in the 23rd District in California. When I immigrated to America at 16 by myself, little did I imagine that one day I would be able to do this. I thank the tens of […]
Now that the election is over, what are you going to obsess about?
Reena Herrera secretary’s assistant “The economy, because it sucks!” Paige Pranjic barista “I’ll probably obsess over money and what I’m going to get people for Christmas.” Golan Van Meter student “You’re assuming I obsessed about the elections to begin with. Not that I’m a teenage nihilist or anything, I just like to deal with other […]
We need to change
Change is always difficult, but our culture must change if it is to continue. There is a movement that is coming from the people/citizens. It has been given a title of “green,” but I prefer “sustainable.” Basically, it is change from a high consumption rate to living within the capacity of our habitat. Resources are […]
What are you dressing up as for Halloween?
Ashley Hillier restaurant manager “Betty Rubble.” Eddie Hillier binky consultant “Bam-Bam.” Amanda Faircloth medical assistant. “A sexy sailor.” Gail Sousa tow-truck manufacturer. “I’ll be in bed by 7.”
Lots of money in a little time
The construction industry provides sanctuary and equity wealth to homeowners, shelter to renters, comfortable places to conduct business and shop, good salaries to workers, and revenues that help fund local government and pay for public improvements. Yet we often hear people question if the construction industry is paying its fair share. State law, known as […]
What’s your favorite workout?
Coral Armor artist “Smoking. That hand-to-mouth motion really works the muscle groups.” Misty Wollemhaup dental hygienist “Cardio kickboxing.” Brenda Perez student “Cardio.” Randy Kestner construction “Lifting.”
Garbage in is garbage out
Shame on you! I cannot believe you actually printed that vulgar response in your question of the week about your favorite drink (“Streetwise” Oct. 2). A local paper, about local events, and local people. That is a poor representation of an “All America City.” I am too proud of our town to read that garbage. […]
Thank you, Dick DeWees
During the last 10 years, I have had the privilege of working closely with Lompoc Mayor Dick DeWees. In my position as 4th District Supervisor, I serve on numerous committees with Mayor DeWees. He brings a great sense of presence to any table or boardroom. He uses his considerable leadership skills to generate support and […]
This is not a time for leadership change in Lompoc
There seems to be a lot of misinformation, half-truths, and negativity floating around in this election season. I’ve lived in the Lompoc Valley for the last 30 years, and it seems to me that we have fared pretty well over the last 10 years. We have much-needed new recreation facilities for our young people, such […]

