Letters to the Editor June 5, 2009

Volunteers could keep parks open

Del Norte County and its wonderful ranks of dedicated volunteers can handle its redwood parks with ease. We already have the proper tools in place: the organizations which annually police our highways for trash can handle the trash detail and the folks who annually volunteer to man the park campgrounds can continue to do so.

As to expertise? We have several experts on hand who live and work here. We have individuals who are expert in caring for trees and we have at least one horticulturist on hand who could take charge of the health of the forest plants other than trees. I often wonder, in this era of super-big government, what people did back in the days when Washington was forced to depend on the bare bones of government — when this nation was young.

Speaking as a  venerable observer of the political scene — I was a teen-age bell-ringer for the Republican Party  — I think one of the best op-ed pieces I have read in a long time is Timothy A. Hodson’s suggestions  for the current fiscal remedy (“Fairness necessary to save California,” June 4). The state’s finance situation is the patient, not the health of either party. Political parties have a way of surviving partly because there is a give and take, often behind the scenes, that keeps the ship of state afloat. California, my native state, has everything that makes for a good place to live. That’s why so many people call it home.

Del Norte County, with its incredible beauty — the state’s top seascape, two rivers, non-stop redwood forest, etc. — can step up to the plate. The legislature and governor should take a look at what volunteerism from all walks of life and throughout the state, might be willing and able to do to maintain the parks with, perhaps, a skeleton crew of pros and an army of volunteers.

 Ann Terrill Garlick

Crescent City

‘Health Care Kickoff’ on Saturday

Crescent City is more than just a nice place on a big map. For some of us, she is where we access the world. Not just the world of beauty and adventure, but the world of neighbors, politics and social change as well.

Health care is changing our country, and our country is changing health care.

This Saturday, June 6, tens of thousands of people will meet in living rooms and cafes all across the country to begin the Obama-inspired “Health Care Kickoff.” As I write this there are 60 events planned withing 250 miles.

My wife and I want to make sure those of us in Crescent City get our say in the matter. The plan is to gather as friends, share health care stories, discuss local health care issues, and plan a “Health Care Day Of Service” for June 27. This is the target day for all of the kickoff groups in all 50 states.

With the hardships facing our state, a Health Care Day Of Service ought to be easy to organize. We will watch a short presentation by Barack Obama and set to saving the world, or maybe just a little piece of it.

If you want to help, take part, or just suggest ideas, then google “Health Care Kickoff.” It is the one sponsored by Organizing For America. You should find us at our zip code. The time will be 2 p.m. Saturday.

Does health care matter to you?

 James R Barrett

 Crescent City

Lopez’s crime was unintentional

In regard to the letter, “Mother: Justice not served for the death of Breena Cardenas,” June 4, as the mother said she could apparently go out and commit any crime and not be thrown in jail.

When you leave your home with the intention to commit a crime, you then deserve jail. Angel Lopez didn’t leave his home with any intentions of harming or hurting anyone, and that is why it’s called an accident.

As a parent I sympathize with the loss of a child, but this is a horrible situation for all involved, with bad judgment being used by all who entered the vehicle.

“Friends don’t let friends drive drunk.”

Ana Borges

Crescent City

Thanks to Officer Bill Wright

I would like to personally thank Officer Bill Wright. On Thursday, May 28, my dog, which had been previously rescued from an abusive home and is very afraid of people, jumped out of my car. I looked for 2 hours for her, knowing she didn’t go far. She hides from people.

I finally went to the police station and turned in a report. Officer Wright took the information, and said he would keep eyes open for her.

At 3:30 a.m. I got a phone call. Officer Bill had found my dog.

No matter what people say, there are some people who go above and beyond to help, even with a dog.

People in Crescent City need to reach out to help each other in any situation, especially during these trying times. Again, I thank you Officer Bill. I know there are more officers like you are out there. Blessings and protection to you all.

Deborah Ghirardo

Crescent City