ReaderWire ReaderWire (December 31, 2004)

Thanks for the memories

Let's correct what will undoubtedly be your last inaccurate coverage about me. You reported in your 2004 wrap-up (Dec. 29) that I was laid off from my job as planner with the City of San Jose and was "reportedly" working as planner for Chula Vista.

Instead, I resigned as Government and Community Relations Manager for the San Jose Redevelopment Agency to accept my new job as Chula Vista's Assistant Director, Department of Planning and Building. I'm currently commuting to San Diego until my daughter graduates from Paly this spring and heads off to Boston University.

Thanks to all my friends and supporters for the wonderful times and memories. It was an honor serving this community since 1988 as Zoning Administrator, Chief Planning Official, City Councilmember and community volunteer. I learned so much and will never forget you.

While it is hard to leave my Primrose Way home and community, it is exciting to return to San Diego.

I wish Palo Alto the best and trust the community will fully recover from the "Dot Com" bust with soul intact. Despite the downturn, I believe Palo Alto will find the means to upgrade libraries, build sports fields, solve the flooding problems, create real affordable housing (not more luxury condos), and retain the history, character and charm that make Palo Alto memorable and unique.
Nancy Lytle
Primrose Way, Palo Alto

Honoring 'angels'

Thank you so much on the profiles of "everyday angels" in the Dec. 15 Weekly.

I so enjoyed reading of those who quietly continue to make a difference in our community and in the lives of others.

My only suggestion is that you do this once a quarter or so to honor folks and to remind all of us that we are the ones who make our communities the kinds of towns and cities we want to live in and raise our children in.
Talley Kenyon
Colorado Avenue, Palo Alto

Interstate invasion?

I have lived in Santa Clara County for more than 44 years, most of that time in Saratoga.

From the time Interstate 280 was opened, I used to note the heavy, for-profit developments north and south of Stanford land. I remain curious why many people in this area seem to think they have a right to use Stanford's private property without compensation.

How did this come about?
Robert E. McNulty
El Camino Way, Palo Alto

Urging gay rights

America's claim to fame is its lack of discrimination -- we accept all races, religions, colors. But it has become apparent that this openness is not extended to homosexuals.

This issue has been brought into the spotlight due to the current debate over legalizing gay marriage. Contrary to common belief, individuals do not choose to be gay -- they are born that way. It is unconstitutional to punish people for something inherited, like race.

Many people are opposed to homosexuality on a religious basis. They claim that the Bible forbids it, which is true, but the Bible also advises ritual animal sacrifices and declares women to be inferior to men.

Some parts of the bible have clearly become outdated. The damnation of homosexuals is one of them.

The real reason behind opposition to gay marriage is simply humans' inherent fear of the unknown. There are many Americans who simply have never met an openly gay individual. Gay people are just regular people. It is unfair to deny them the right to marry someone they love.
Marie Nightingale
Los Trancos Circle, Portola Valley

E-mail a friend a link to this story.