I think the judge got it wrong on Frank Bogert statue in Palm Springs

Have you ever felt that a judge, any judge, any court — divorce, traffic, bankruptcy, Judge Judy, even the Supreme Court, whatever — “got it wrong?”

If so, please relate to my feelings about Superior Court Judge Carol Greene siding with the Palm Springs City Council on the legality of removing the Frank Bogert statue.

With all due respect for a legal decision, where’s the justice?

The relentless onslaught of false narrative and baseless blame aimed at the deceased Frank Bogert has been wrong from the start. These actions of a “woke” council revising local history, and hellbent on “reparations,” are pitiful moments that don’t measure well against Bogert’s lifetime of devoted public service. The esteemed "cowboy mayor" loved this community and gave it his all. His extraordinary dedication to the people of Palm Springs won’t be forgotten, no matter where the statue is placed.

Do you think it’s possible for an action to be legally decided but terribly wrong? I do.

Doni Ellison Hubbard, Rancho Mirage

What this election is really about

This election is not about abortion rights, gas prices, or who’s the “best” candidate for any particular office. It’s about a real, existential threat to the world you, your children and your grandchildren will live in.

There are violent, pro-authoritarian forces in our society that are willing to go to violent lengths to impose their view of our country on all of us. All except the most partisan and myopic amongst us see that threat, yet far too many of us cannot imagine that the destruction of our democratic society is possible in our lifetime.

I spent nearly a decade working for the U.S. Congress in a more collegial time, when center-right and center-left members were a majority and together balanced the needs of their parties against the common good. However imperfect, that coalition held off the crazies from the right and left. That’s no longer true. The attack on our Capitol by violent partisans is proof.

Let’s evaluate and support every candidate on the basis of whether they are willing/able to compromise their parochial needs for the needs of our country. Is their loyalty to our democracy or does it lie elsewhere? Your grandchild’s future depends on the answer.

Linwood Lloyd, Palm Springs

Police union’s endorsement of Calvert is not right

As a frequent visitor to Palm Springs, I'm appalled by the Police Officers Association’s endorsement of Ken Calvert for Congress.

Palm Springs is a beautiful, welcoming, generous community. I've always been impressed by its support of everyone who lives and visits.

But this endorsement is just not right. In fact, I would hesitate to visit Palm Springs again if Calvert is elected.

Police serve and protect all of us, not a select few.

Suzie Chang, San Francisco

Why I'm supporting Mike Duran for DSUSD board

It is with great pleasure that I recommend Michael “Coach” Duran for the Desert Sands Unified School District Trustee Area 5 board seat.

I have had the honor of knowing Mr. Duran since I was a student. He has a desire to support students and help them reach their highest potential. I experienced this firsthand when he supported my older sibling and I through the college application process. We are grateful for him because it was with his guidance and support that we were accepted into college. Student achievement and success is Mr. Duran’s priority.

I have had another wonderful opportunity of working alongside Mr. Duran as a school counselor for five years. He is nothing short of an exceptional leader, who advocates for the best interests of students, teachers and our community. Mr. Duran has an ability to connect with students and staff on an incredible level and builds strong relationships.

I, along with others, often refer to Mr. Duran as the “world’s greatest teacher” because of his leadership qualities in building relationships, building supportive systems and being enthusiastic about helping others develop into their best selves.

Please join me in selecting Michael “Coach” Duran for DSUSD Trustee Area 5.

AnnMarie Lozano, Indio

Why Will Rollins has my vote

I’m supporting Will Rollins for the 41st Congressional district. He is ready to work hard to develop viable solutions that incorporate bipartisan approaches rather than extreme positions.

like the fact that he grew up in a family of both Democrats and Republicans so he has insight into different ways of thinking. Too many politicians rely on bumper sticker slogans or no-compromise ideological blather—neither of which offer solutions to the challenges we face.

Because of my early career as an engineer in two industries with national security implications (defensive weapons systems and semiconductor manufacturing equipment), I’m particularly impressed with Rollins’ experience as a federal national security prosecutor. He is standing up for free and fair elections and isn’t afraid to say so. He also understands the national security implications of climate change.

Finally, Rollins has highlighted his commitment to protecting Medicare, Social Security, and expanding community-based services that allow seniors to remain in their homes as long as possible. He will also fend off Republicans’ plans to sunset Social Security/Medicare every 5 years (requiring a new vote to reinstate).

Debra Vogler, Palm Desert

Why I'm voting yes on Measure A in La Quinta

My wife and I moved to La Quinta in 2002. We love our home, our community and our city. For many years I was an active volunteer with Desert Sheriff’s Search & Rescue and assisted my wife with cleanup work at the top of the cove.

Several years ago, our next-door neighbors moved to the East Coast. Two nice young guys, from out of town, purchased the house and said it was their vacation retreat. However, soon we had a short-term vacation rental (STVR) right next door.

Overflowing trash was an issue. There were parties, too many cars, too much noise, and too many people coming and going.

I am a Vietnam veteran and always intently aware of my surroundings. Because of so much activity next door, I was hyper alert at all times. It was exhausting. We longed for lovely neighbors and the serene and peaceful street that we previously enjoyed.

Recently, the property next door sold and we have neighbors again. We are so relieved; we got our fantastic life back. For others, the nightmare continues. Our heart goes out to those with STVRs on their blocks.

Bring back neighbors in our neighborhoods. Vote yes on Measure A.

Craig Patton, La Quinta

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Palm Springs Frank Bogert statue: I think the judge got it wrong