18 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY october 17-23, 2024 www.montereycountynow.com Both Sides Thanks so much for taking the time to lay out the issues and candidates (“Politics isn’t pretty—but it’s time for voters to make choices. Our endorsements in local, state and national elections,” Oct. 10-16). It is painstakingly difficult to sort through everything to make decisions based on limited knowledge. You provide enough information to determine what and who makes sense for the individual voter. I appreciate the behind-the-scenes of the local politics of the individual cities. Most of us would not know any of that. Carol Moreali | via email You are consistently true to form, touting and endorsing the Democrat candidates. Again, I will simply do the opposite! Vince Tuminello | Pacific Grove In Salinas… Your article was misleading to the question of where Margaret D’Arrigo resides (“Squid Fry: Forwarding Address,” Sept. 19-25). As a very good friend, I know she has been in Maple Park in South Salinas for several years. Margaret was born and raised in Salinas, and while she was able to move to the Toro/Corral area while she and her husband were raising their children, she had her children enrolled in Lincoln School’s Dual Immersion Program. In her children’s high school years at Palma and Salinas High School, she relocated to South Salinas. She has purchased a new home in the same neighborhood. She is not going anywhere. Margaret not only supports many organizations and businesses with her time, treasure and talent, she also supports her community by patronizing local Salinas businesses in her daily life. She walks her talk. She is a true example of a woman who believes in brighter futures. Sheryl Merrill | Salinas Thank you for exposing the huge donations at play (“Big business is spending big money in Salinas elections,” Sept. 26-Oct. 2). I am appalled at how so much corporate money has infiltrated all levels of our elections (in Salinas, it’s from agriculture and real estate). It’s sad that we have to research who’s funding who, with hidden interests reflected. Keep up your investigative reporting! Thank you for revealing how these political action committees aim to influence our voting. Karen Cameron | Salinas When I purchased my current home, Chris Barrera was my realtor and he did an excellent job. His attention to detail will be a benefit as mayor. One of his opponents is a former mayor who was responsible for the dysfunctional Green Vehicles fiasco, the Renaissance Partners debacle, the Measure K sales tax failure and more. Chris has the talents and the ability to be mayor, and make Salinas a better place for all. Eric Petersen | Salinas And in Monterey… City Council District 3 candidate Jean Rasch is supported by people and organizations with diverse perspectives. Those varied supporters recognize that Jean is independent, open-minded, and has the experience and knowledge needed to meet our neighborhood and city challenges. Jean is an accomplished individual with years of experience advocating and working for the Monterey Vista neighborhood. District 3 should be represented by a city council member who is not beholden to a particular party or bound by an agenda. Pat Venza | Monterey Eric Palmer is the best candidate for the District 3 seat because his work and parenting have taught him patience in decision-making. Jean has demonstrated that she does not take time to consider issues when she decided to criticize and insult Eric without knowing that he had advised city staff that he would be leaving early from the two-hour orientation to pick up his children (“Squid Fry: Fighting Words,” Oct. 3-9). As you note, “He worked for the City of Monterey for many years in communications, and knows how local government makes sausage.” Eric didn’t need the orientation but attended for as long as he could. He will make thoughtful decisions that will make lives better for those who live and work in Monterey who otherwise are just trying to make ends meet. Mark Lasnik | Monterey Since Gino Garcia has been representing District 4 on Monterey City Council, he has supported affordable housing development, the rental assistance program and rental registry; redevelopment of the North Fremont corridor; a light rail system for the Peninsula; neighborhood improvements; police and fire equipment; and cannabis retail. He has the knowledge of government, planning, and finance and the ability to advocate effectively for our district. Laura Nagel | Monterey school bell I am excited to support Chelsea Lenowska for the Monterey Peninsula College Board of Trustees Area 3. Her leadership, public service dedication and fresh vision make her an ideal candidate. Her background in higher education, federal law enforcement and her current role at the Naval Postgraduate School provide a wealth of experience. Chelsea is committed to ensuring MPC’s success while being fiscally responsible. Above all, she’s a champion for Monterey County. Her passion for education, innovative approach and new voice will benefit the community. Carolyn Swanson | Pacific Grove I would like to express my support for Libby Downey for MPC Board of Trustees in Area 3. Libby has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to improving education and ensuring our local community college remains a valuable resource. There has been a lot of focus on age in this election cycle. While I agree that new voices and fresh perspectives can make boards stronger, experience matters. Libby has dedicated many years of service to this community and brings deep knowledge which will provide great benefit as MPC moves forward. Amy Stocker | Monterey Letters • CommentsOPINION Submit letters to the editor to letters@montereycountynow.com. Please keep your letter to 150 words or less; subject to editing for space. Please include your full name, contact information and city you live in.
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