Tip your hat

In “To Kill a Mockingbird,” attorney Atticus Finch is exiting the courtroom, having quickened and singed the conscience of the community as he defended an accused.

In the balcony a little boy is snatched to standing attention by his grandfather. His black bird-eyes quiz as well as he whispers, “why are we standing?”

The somber response: “A gentleman is passing by.”

Noting the obituary of Pastor David Hollings-worth, I am reminded of my boyhood culture. As the funeral procession rolls by, farmers drop the horse’s reins, pausing in respect. Men tip the brim of their hats as they drop them to their side. Ladies cross their heart, some bow their head. Kids salute and drivers pull the car to the side of the road — all in respect for the grieving and the departed.

David shepherded his Cambrian flock over a quarter of a century. He married the committed, baptized the believing and counseled the hurting with Scripture for the soul. His quiet and shynature betrayed his tenacious, persistent commitment to Cambria.

He touched so many in ministry to the ill and those in need. He opened eyes to the depth of Scripture and spirit. A beautiful building that serves the community is a product of his labor and encouragement.

Take a moment. Rein in your thoughts, tip your hat, or bow a pensive head in gratitude. Were someone to ask why? Respond, “I Perceive a man of God passing by” (II Kings 4:9).

Jim Silvers

Cambria

Credit where over-due

I was so happy to be greeted by Jay Burbank’s smiling face on the cover of the May 24 Cambrian. Jay has been a contributor to so much of Cambria – not just the veterans, but also the high school Drama Club (remember the Edsel?), the Cambria Historical Society (he turned a replacement for one of the porch columns), the Ranch, the library, the Follies, the scarecrows — and almost anyone who promises to let him work in the background and not give him too much credit.

I’m certain that only because of the persistence and intrepidity of your ace reporter, Kathe Tanner, were you able to capture him for a picture.

Thank you for recognizing a good friend of mine and a warm, helpful friend to so very, very many Cambrians of all types.

John Ruml, a Cambrian at heart

Arlington, Va.

Wallet lost, returned

During my recent visit to Cambria I lost my wallet on May 17, but to my surprise some unknown honest person found it and mailed it to my home. Every dollar arrived and all the documents were in place.

The only return address was Cambria Business Center, but since the item was sent via the postal service the business was not able to track the sender.

I am currently out of work, and the wallet I lost had everything I owned. I just can’t express how grateful I am, and how wonderful the people of Cambria are.

Thank you very much!

Armando Marquez

Apple Valley

Expense justified?

Did anyone realize that the Cambria Community Services District is providing an all-expenses paid commuting vehicle to one of its most highly paid employees? Although I have been, and continue to be, a whole-hearted supporter of Chief Miller, I am disturbed that in these tough financial times the CCSD is providing him with a free commute vehicle to Paso Robles.

Their justification is that he is “on call 24/7,” which could be said about all fire personnel. I question how much time the chief is actually on duty outside of his normal work week, and why he cannot commute like all others in his personal vehicle. Another justification is that he must be able to be in “constant communication” with CCSD Fire, but why can’t that be done with portable equipment placed in any vehicle?

In addition, the vehicle being used is the diesel-powered crew cab Cambria Fire and Rescue truck, designated as a “command vehicle.” This specially-equipped emergency response vehicle undoubtedly costs more per mile than anything but a fire engine to operate and should be routinely within the services district area available for use, not serving as a daily commute vehicle.

If you agree with my thoughts on this matter, I encourage you to make your opinion known to the CCSD general manager and/or the CCSD directors.

Richard Davega

Cambria

Many helping hands

Chelsea O’Sullivan, a Coast Union High School alumna, received a bachelor of science degree in environmental science with a concentration in biology and earth sciences from Saint Mary’s College of California during the May 2012 commencement exercises.

Chelsea graduated summa cum laude and received the John Muir Award for outstanding scholarship as an environmental science major.

Chelsea will attend University of Virginia School of Law this fall.

Thank you to all those who supported Chelsea in her achievements, including: American Field Service (AFS), Breakfast for Champions, Cambria Garden Club, Cambria Rotary Sunrise Centennial Club, Interact Club, Lions Club of Cambria, Mary Stenbeck, Mr. and Mrs. John Tays, and The Weyhrich Leadership Award given by the San Luis Obispo Community Foundation.

Also, many thanks to all the teachers, counselors and community members who helped instill in her the love of knowledge.

Michael O’Sullivan

Cambria