"Hey John Chiv, I wouldn't run you over"

I am sure there are people locally who would run me over and want to but the person who said this patiently waited for me to cross the street. It was a green light. There are a few considerate pedestrians left in Eureka. I encounter them and always wave and thank them.

The moment I heard my full name, I knew who it was; I stopped and asked Eureka Councilmember Kim Bergel how she was doing. She was at the busy intersection of 4th and I and most people do not extend the courtesy.

She pulled over briefly where there is a parking lot for a minute and we had a safe, quick, polite chat.

That may surprise people who don't know me or know me well. Despite our political and some personal differences.; despite my past coverage, right after I covered her court case, I saw Kim Bergel at a local store. She said hi. I had another pleasant conversation with Kim Bergel. 

It is good to see her a lot more relaxed these days and she has always been pleasant when her ex isn't around. I have noticed she is a different person when Eric Bergel is not hovering around her. I saw him yesterday and unlike Kim Bergel, I did not smile at him.

I am personable and friendly if you don't accost me at the Courthouse or anywhere else when I am busy and most of all approach me like a human being and with respect. If you have had a different experience with me, look in the mirror and ask why.

Kim Bergel, the person is not  Kim Bergel, the politician. The same applies to me.  She gets that; I get it; do you? People are multi faceted.

We can disagree on politics and beliefs yet show respect. We need to understand someone doing their job is not reason to dislike them. 

I speak and publish independent journalism which is needed in Humboldt. It is needed in the world but my inbox and voicemail is filled regularly with people wanting the truth to be published and evil exposed.

Those who don't take the time to get to know me or anyone with an open mind and believe whatever they have heard about me or anyone from petty, disgruntled and biased people and those who chose to ignore why I or anyone maybe outspoken, cranky or impatient can shove their opinion and their immaturity where the sun doesn't shine.