Candidate for
Director; Rubidoux Community Services District

I feel very strongly that citizens should take an active part in their government. They can be on committees or advisory boards or run for office. This is the way that ciitzens can be informed about the government process and keep track of the way it is run. Citizens NEED to keep track of the way it is run.

It is not enough to sit back nnd snipe at the latest scandal or the guilty politician. When the ciitzen takes part in the process he can see what really is involved in the way government works. When he knows and understands, he can then demand accountability from the elected person. When the disaffected citizen does not even get out to vote, he hands the opportunity to that person who wishes to abuse the system, at what ever level of his own lower principles.

Democracy is defined as the "least-worst system" of government. We have brought cynicism and ugliness to our way of life. We need to come back to the realization that we can ask accountability and higher expectations from our leaders.

Citizens must demand accountability. Citizens must demand honesty, decency, and obedience to, not disregard of, the law. They need to be informed to be able to do that.

Getting involved with community programs and problems is the beginning of being an informed citizen. An effective citizenry can make a difference. I truly believe that.