The budget has been submitted to congress, and the debate begins. We would all like a budget that will save taxpayer money and reduce the deficit. To accept a budget that will cost us billions in interest is foolish and wasteful. But whose back do we balance the budget on: the rich or the poor? […]
We can’t really buy safety
Posted inOpinion
What planet are you from, Republicans?
The Republicans in Congress have such an elitist perception of what their fellow Americans desperately need. Their proposed cuts to health care, Planned Parenthood, Social Security, Americorps, etc., combined with their poisonous votes to shield greenhouse gas polluters, only make sense to me if I conclude that they are from some vengeful human-hating planet and […]
Posted inOpinion
Tea Partiers, consider learning Egyptian
As a registered Democrat, I was sent “The White House Weekly Address” that includes a YouTube video of President Barack Obama giving a speech about the demonstrations in Egypt. He told of the passion and dignity of the Egyptian people who were demonstrating against the government of Egypt and that this had been an inspiration […]
Posted inOpinion
Liberals need to grow into responsible adults
While one opinion page contributor was bragging about how proud he was to be liberal because they’re so tolerant, compassionate, and care so much about people, I was wondering: Why, then, all the hostility, hatred, and rage directed toward conservatives? Liberals don’t have a problem with multiculturalism, illegal immigrants who refuse to assimilate, Muslims who […]
Posted inOpinion
Bravo to our world-class theater!
Accolades to our PCPA Theatrefest for its latest production, The 39 Steps. When I heard that four people play 100 roles, I didn’t know what to expect. It was done so cleverly! This was the first time that the set designer, sound designer, and costume designer seemed as important as the actors and director. Our […]
Posted inOpinion
Teachers are important; compensate accordingly
Roy Berger in his recent letter (“Teachers: Stop whining and quit,” Feb. 17) says he’s tired of teachers whining. If they don’t like their jobs they should quit. I’m reminded that teachers are the lowest-paid members of a major profession, a profession that molds our young people into knowledgeable productive adults. I can think of […]
Posted inOpinion
The president’s budget is irresponsible
President Barack Obama’s budget proposal is a major disappointment. It does not deal seriously with massive deficit spending, and in fact proposes another $7 trillion in deficit spending over the life of the budget. It does nothing to address the looming entitlement train wreck. The underlying assumptions regarding economic growth, interest rates, and revenues are […]
Posted inFood & Drink
Solvang is delicious
Established in 1911 by Danes determined to preserve their heritage, Solvang continues to reign as a haven of Danish culture amid the American landscape. Each spring, in tribute to the town’s founding mothers and fathers, the little burg in the middle of the Santa Ynez Valley plays host to Taste of Solvang to showcase the […]
Posted inNews
Help build a quality life
The dust has finally settled for Los Alamos: The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted the Los Alamos Community Plan on Feb. 15. “We believe that this plan is a roadmap for years to come,” Los Alamos Planning Advisory Committee chairman Chris Wrather said during the hearing’s public comment period. The board added […]
Posted inNews
Pioneer Valley gets a green grant
Pioneer Valley High School is adding green to its school colors, thanks to funding from State Farm California’s Environmental Grant Program. The school received a $5,000 grant at a check presentation on March 2. The grant will go toward any student-led programs that focus on efforts benefiting the community and the environment. “I am very […]
Posted inNews
Living life as a principal
Every school kid wants to be principal for a day, even if it’s just to replace those water fountains with soda fountains. On March 9, business and community leaders have the opportunity to fulfill that childhood dream, but as adults. Community members who act as principals will learn what issues face educators. Participants will spend […]
Posted inNews
Lompoc Chamber needs an executive director
The Lompoc Chamber of Commerce, an organization with 450 members, is on the hunt for a new executive director. Whoever lands the seat will be responsible for the complete operation of the Chamber and the Chamber’s Foundation, new sales and retention of memberships, implementing fundraising activities to support the Chamber, and participating in community events […]