Recently I was made aware of a mailer sent out by Ted Mandrones where a quote by me was easily taken out of context in order to support his candidacy for District 4 supervisor.

While I was the supervisor who insisted that the removal of the crane from Clear Lake was the only option that should be considered, I was supported by three other supervisors in my request.

Ironically, Supervisor Farrington's comments about the removal of the crane being largely symbolic when considering the option of leaving it in the lake is noticeably absent from Mr. Mandrones' flier.

I was pleased with Martin Scheel's willingness to take responsibility for the reimbursement to the county for the cost of removal and he has begun the process as he had promised.

Just as ironic is the sudden concern by Supervisor Farrington about this subject that has not been mentioned by him in all of these years, even when he supported Mr. Scheel's successful race for Lakeport City Council. It's fascinating how election years bring out certain priorities that might otherwise not be there.

As to Mr. Mandrones, I do agree with Supervisor Farrington that voters should be educated as to their choices and that is why I would like to address other concerns that I have regarding Ted's candidacy.

He mentions his efforts as a volunteer at the donation center during the Valley fire and, while I commend the volunteers that put in hundreds of hours to guarantee its operation, it came to my attention that they did an amazing job in spite of his efforts.

He also uses his experience as the former manager of Piedmont Lumber as a qualification. I have been told by seven former employees that his leadership as the manager is the reason for the closure of what once was one of the most thriving businesses in Lake County.

I also question his judgment in giving a significant role in his campaign to someone that is knowingly being prosecuted for forcible rape.

In contrast, Martin Scheel showed the kind of support and selfless involvement ever since the early hours of the Valley fire and, on behalf of my constituents, that is why I decided to support him in his efforts as a candidate for Lake County supervisor in District 4.

Rob Brown lives in Kelseyville, Calif. He represents District 5 on the Lake County Board of Supervisors.