Vote for Pine for VCOE board
I voted for Kristina Pine for election to the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE) Board of Trustees.
I voted for Kristina because I want public servants who put “service above self.” Kristina Pine has a demonstrated history of community and public service. This is an important criteria for me as I review candidate qualifications and their purpose in seeking elective office. It’s important to note that Kristina’s family also are active community participants.
Kristina’s personal and professional experience indicate a true commitment to ensuring that our schools offer the best possible education for every child. Her values and experience will guide her in restoring public trust in the VCOE along with providing diligent fiscal oversight, transparency
and accountability.
Kristina Pine has earned my respect and my vote. I believe she deserves yours as well.
Bernardo Perez, Moorpark
Re-elect Lichtl for VCCCD trustee
As a resident of Thousand Oaks since 1979 and a former Governing Board member and President of the Ventura County Community College District representing Area 2, I encourage voters to support Lou Lichtl for reelection to the VCCCD Board of Trustees, Area 2.
Two of my children attended Moorpark College, giving me a firsthand appreciation for the critical role our community colleges play in opening pathways to degrees and high-paying careers. Lou brings more than 40 years of experience in public education, including over 30 years in educational leadership. His distinguished career in the Conejo Valley Unified School District includes serving as Principal of Redwood Middle School and Thousand Oaks High School, and ultimately as Assistant Superintendent. Throughout his career, Lou demonstrated a consistent commitment to academic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and preparing students for success beyond the classroom.
As a current VCCCD Trustee, he continues that work by advocating for responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, strong workforce development, and expanded opportunities for students.
Our community colleges deserve experienced, principled leadership. Lou Lichtl has the background, proven record, and dedication to continue serving our students and community effectively.
Please join me in voting to re-elect Lou Lichtl for VCCCD Trustee, Area 2, on Nov. 3.
Gregory P. Cole, Thousand Oaks
Oxnard moving in right direction
Thanks to the League of Women Voters of Ventura County (LWV), the Channel Islands Neighborhood Council, and the Oxnard Inter-Neighborhood Council Organization (INCO) for hosting candidate forums.
Oxnard voters now have the information needed to make an informed decision for this election cycle. Candidates running for Oxnard City Council (Districts 1, 2, 5) opposing the three incumbents have spoken of “doom and gloom” if Oxnard continues on its current trajectory. They have attacked the keystone of our municipal institution. Yet, they lack facts and rely on innuendo, while incumbents carefully choose le mot juste to convey the truth. Residents who remember the city’s tumultuous past are well aware of the significant progress made over the last several years; consequently, they support continuing on the present course and remain optimistic about the future.
Every city in the county faces challenges, and Oxnard is no different. Oxnard residents have seen notable infrastructure improvements, including upgrades to major roads, alleyways, aging wastewater pipes, and local parks, alongside routine maintenance like tree trimming and sidewalk repairs. Assistance is available to both shelterless and undocumented neighbors within our community through a combination of agencies and nonprofits. Programs such as the Oxnard Youth Academy, Oxnard City Corps, Oxnard Police Activities League are available to our youth. Our police and fire departments are actively engaged with our local neighborhood councils, where open, two-way communication is always welcome.
While the grass might appear greener in other cities and communities, publicly available data and metrics show that Oxnard is moving in a positive direction. Let’s keep the momentum going and vote for the incumbents for another term.
Bill Karr, Oxnard
This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Backing trustee candidates, Oxnard's momentum | Letters
