Supporting Gatti

Dear Editor,

Donald Gatti is running for the County Board of Education Trustee Area 1. Donald has a wealth of experience and expertise in the field of education. His 33 years of experience working in three school districts and the Stanislaus County Office of Education has given him direct contact with a wide variety of successful educational programs, schools and districts. He will bring that knowledge and experience to the San Joaquin County Board and will be an outstanding member who will champion the many programs and services operated by the county office. Please join me for voting for Donald Gatti when you cast your ballot at the upcoming election on June 5.

John Largent

Drive Safe And Sober

Dear Editor,

Many drivers head to the highways in the 14 weeks between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Due to the traffic congestion, it can be deadly. That depends on each driver.

A drunken driver hit me when I was 16 in 1992 and I was severely injured. My hearing, talking and walking were damaged. I never expected that to happen but it did.

Texting has become a social norm. Drivers using cell phones believe nothing will happen. They may find out differently and it may be the last thing they do. Directing all of your attention to driving is difficult for many if a phone is present. Drivers must challenge themselves and prove that life exists without conversations on the phone when driving.

Safe roads begin with safe drivers: Make it a routine to turn off your phone or place it on silent when driving. Beeps or vibrations will tempt you to look. Keep it out of reach. Placing it in the glove compartment, back seat, or trunk are a few recommendations.

If you continue driving like this, it will become a habit. Driving with a cell phone by you will eventually seem unusual.

Let’s say, you want to find an easy route to Dell’Osso Family Farms in Lathrop or find out where your friend is located there? Find a place to park your vehicle and find the information using your phone then.

Also, keep looking at the road with sober eyes. If drinking is done at any gathering you attend, please make sure a sober driver drives you. Sober eyes belong on all drivers. Please, do this each time you drive. You will not regret it.

Lori Martin