On Tuesday, I will be voting for Paul Pitino for County Supervisor from the third district. Having watched Paul for years as an Arcata City Councilman, I believe that he is the most progressive candidate and has lots of experience dealing with local issues. If there is a runoff between Plumley and Lovelace, I will vote for Mark Lovelace in November. For more information about Paul visit http://paulpitino.org/
Last night, candidates for Third District County Supervisor answered questions at the Veterans Memorial Building in Arcata. Candidates Mark Lovelace, Paul Pitino, and Bryan Plumley participated in the Forum that was sponsored by The Arcata Eye, KHSU, and the Arcata Chamber of Commerce. Lovelace raised the issues of integrity and consistency as an issue that ought to be addressed. Mark's campaign manager told me that the remark was an allusion to Plumley giving different responses depending on what group he was talking to. Pitino put emphasis on the issue of campaign finance reform, noting that he has refused to take contributions and endorsements, has not put up signs, and has spent only $200 so far. Plumley said that he might be the only solar powered stockbroker, but Lovelace noted that Bryan had nothing to do with the solar panels being installed on the building where Plumley's business is located. Lovelace and Pitino agreed on many issues whereas Plumley takes a more conservative, pro-growth position. The General plan update is an example with Mark and Paul favoring option A, and Bryan supporting option B. Among the topics covered were: trails, port development, climate change, jobs, HSU growth, and homelessness. To stop global warming Lovelace called for walkable communities, Pitano for a better bus system, and Plumley for green building standards. More debate videos are at http://www.youtube.com/user/arcatareporter
Green Presidential candidate Cynthia McKinney spoke tonight at the Kate Buchanan Room at HSU. The former Congressperson spoke about her recent experiences in Mexico, globalization, electoral fraud, and the shortcomings of the corporate media. McKinney said "We have to go outside of the corporate media to inform ourselves." She said that by controlling the information people receive, the corporate media controls the way we vote and therefore controls the public policy results. McKinney served six terms in Congress as a representative from Georgia. Also speaking at the event were Carol Wolman, Green candidate for Congress in the First District, and Paul Pitino, Green candidate for County Supervisor in the Third District.
