As the Ventura County Supervisor representing the 4th District, I would like to welcome The Acorn newspaper to the Simi Valley area.

Contrary to what some people might expect of an elected official, I welcome the freedom to exercise the First Amendment’s protection of speech and of expression which allows all Americans to engage in uninhibited debate. It is a founding block of our nation. After all, without politics and government, "Journalism 101" would have little to inspire students who want to learn the core values of journalism and the function of a free press.

One of the primary benefits of a free press is to serve as a watchdog of government by bringing to the people the information they need to form their own independent judgment in electing officials and then to evaluate the job they are doing.

A free press is responsible to its readers and not beholden to any political or business interest. The Acorn has done a respectable job in the other communities it serves, including Moorpark and Thousand Oaks, and has always been fair in reporting countywide issues. Balance, fairness, accuracy, credibility and good judgment can only lead to success and provide a huge benefit to society. Welcome to Simi Valley!

Judy Mikels

Supervisor, 4th District