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Human investment
EDITOR: Congratulations to all of the recipients of the 2018 Sebastopol Chamber of Commerce’s Community Awards.
As usual we had an excellent group of folks who have donated to the richness of our community and have helped make Sebastopol the special place that it is.
I also extend a very appreciative thank you to those businesses that contributed food and wine to the reception. You folks help make the event special.
To those who attended in support of our recipients, thank you to you as well. As several award winners commented, they don’t do what they do for the recognition. However, the recognition is welcome as is the knowledge that their efforts are appreciated.
To those who were not able to attend or, chose not to, I heartedly encourage you to make the effort to attend next year. It is important to acknowledge those who make Sebastopol the special place that it is. It’s not just the weather or physical beauty of the area, but the human investment of time, energy and care for each other that make this a truly special place to live.
Bob Aita, President, Board of Directors
Sebastopol Chamber of Commerce
Measure A gratitude
EDITOR: As a member of the Friends of West County Schools and a involved community member, I want to say thank you to our community for supporting Measure A: the West County High School bond measure. Now the district can get down to business and upgrade our facilities as they should be for our students, teachers and staff.
As chairman of the Bond Oversight Committee, I assure you that the committee will carefully monitor all bond expenditures and make certain the money is being spent as was stated in the measure. Once again, thank you west county for making a difference in our schools and in the lives of our students.
Jeanne Fernandes
Sebastopol
Make a difference
EDITOR: It is hard to think of a child being victimized. No one likes to think child abuse exists in their community. But sadly, in Sonoma County, approximately 500 children were found by the courts to have been abused or neglected by their families. When that happens, the child enters foster care, which can be a disorienting, frightening and an unsettling experience for any age child.
Let us stand up for every child too young to speak for themselves.
One of the most effective ways to do this is by becoming a CASA volunteer. We are thankful that approximately 220 children in foster care in Sonoma County have a Court Appointed Special Advocate, a CASA, to help guide and advocate for them in the judicial and child welfare system. Unfortunately, at the same time we have 55 children still waiting for a CASA and referrals being received weekly.
Research shows that children in foster care, who have a CASA, live happier, healthier lives as adults. As little as 10-12 hours a month can make a child’s life brighter. Our summer training begins July 19. Visit www.sonomacasa.org or call us at 565-6375.
Millie Gilson
CASA
