DMV EXCELS IN CUSTOMER SERVICE. It was almost three years since my last visit to the DMV office in Los Banos. At that time I found the staff friendly, accommodating and efficient. Contrary to reports I hear from friends who spend many hours in the Modesto and even the Turlock offices, my Los Banos experience was delightful. I returned to the DMV office this week to update my license with a new photo and to pay the renewal fee. This time the Los Banos office did even better. It took me about 15 minutes from the time I parked in the lot until I walked out the door after taking a number in line, then having my picture taken. It happened so quickly, I initially wondered what I had forgotten to do. Here is my short experience:

I arrived, stood in the reception line for a minute when a woman asked me what I was there to accomplish. She then handed me a number and I sat down in the waiting area. I noticed about eight other people at various windows in the facility. After about five minutes, my number was called. I proceeded to Window 3, hosted by another smiling face. She took my information and my license, typed some information into her computer and escorted me to the photo area. After about seven minutes with her, she handed me my temporary license, and I left. The entire experience was so remarkable that I filled out the “How Did We Do” card and mailed it the next day.

 I would have been just as happy if the entire process took a half hour or longer. It may have been a slow day, but the service was so efficient and friendly, that it would have been delightful even if twice as many people were ahead of me!

ELECTION YEAR MEANS LOTS OF VOTERS. We know that the November election will feature the race for president, and millions of voters will show up to vote. Add to that a long list of propositions and some local races for mayor and city council, and this fall could be one of the most important elections in memory. In Newman alone, two council seats and the mayor’s job may see some competition. I’m hearing that challengers may surface for every seat, which could make this year even more interesting. You’ll be hearing more about this, and your local newspaper will let you know how long prospective candidates and incumbents will have to file in both Newman and Gustine.

WEST SIDE THEATRE A GEM WITHOUT THE GAS. Those high gas prices got you down? Like many of us, you’re probably looking to find things to do right here where you can either walk to most city events or drive a short distance from your country home. One venue that is worth looking into is our gorgeous West Side Theatre. The lineup for 2008 has been remarkable, especially in the first half of the year. Starting now, some outstanding performances have already been announced. Board member Rick Nagle said, “A lot of well known acts have been learning about our theatre and are coming to us recently, unlike when we had to go out looking for talent. We have a name now.” You can buy your tickets on line (www.westsidetheatre.org/tickets.html) or by calling 209-862-4490 or 1-800-838-3006. Our theatre is a labor of love, particularly for David and Farris Larsen and the hard-working board members who keep the performances and musicians humming in our bustling community. Hats off to them for their diligence and for bringing the West Side a diverse culture from around the country.

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