Says Critic of His Gay-Athlete Letter Misstated

His Point About Media Coverage

Editor:

Carol Sholin (“Says Equal Rights Not a ‘Left-Wing Bias,’ But Basic Decency,” Letters, May 15) wrote in support of the media’s praise for homosexual athlete Jason Collins.

In her letter, Ms. Sholin claimed she was responding to my own letter, (which described the media’s unequal treatment of gay athletes vs. Christian athletes). However, Ms. Sholin misstated the whole point of my letter. She said, “Opponents of gay rights like Peter Hauer have responded to Collin’s coming out by condemning the completely unrelated release of Tim Tebow.”

My letter had nothing to do with Tim Tebow getting “released.” (I assume that is sports talk for getting fired.) I never even knew about it. My letter merely pointed out that when Tim Tebow tried to talk about being Christian, the left-wing media told him to shut up. But when Collins talks about being homosexual, suddenly the left-wing media makes that front page news, and sings his praises, as if Collins had found the cure for cancer.

Ms. Sholin completely failed to address my argument: that the unequal treatment of homosexual athletes and Christian athletes shows a left-wing bias. I suspect she failed to address my argument because she cannot. The evidence of left-wing bias is clear for all to see.

Diverse opinions are wonderful. But if you want to refute my opinions, then please address them directly, instead attributing statements to me that I never said, and misleading people by going off on irrelevant tangents.

—Peter W. Hauer, Castro Valley

Calls Tea Party ‘Right-Wing Extremists’ Who

Should Be Targeted by the IRS

Editor:

If a scandal even exists involving the IRS targeting the Tea Party, so be it. The Tea Party deserves to be targeted.

The Tea Party is a group of dangerous right-wing extremists who pose a threat to the US Government and our American way of life.

In the 1950s and ’60s, the Communist and Socialist parties were targeted and even spied on by the FBI and CIA, and in the 1960s and ’70s, the same treatment was accorded the anti-war protesters and groups like the Weathermen, Panthers, and Students for a Democratic Society.

The Tea Party is no different.

Since the Tea Party has no real membership list and is extremely loose in organization, followers of the Tea Party can also pose dangers to our way of life without being actual “members.”

Wade Page, who shot up a Sikh temple last summer, was a follower of the Tea Party. So was Jared Loughner, who tried to assassinate Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and killed six people in the process.   Other violent and dangerous terrorists, criminals and hoodlums have professed their love for the Tea Party.

So if the IRS did something to target these dangerous individuals and their followers, it is a good deal. These people are on the farthest right spectrum of the political world.  They have even backed posting billboards calling our President a dictator and comparing him to Hitler.

I have never been a fan of the Internal Revenue Service, but for once I say, Go IRS!  Keep up the good work.

—David Shipp, Castro Valley

Supports Opening of Muzo’s Grill – a Piece of

History That Shouldn’t Be Lost

Editor:

I wish to support the opening of Muzo’s Grill. This little building has been there for over 20 years. It’s a part of Castro Valley history! I used to go there once a week back in the ’80s when it was called “Franks Footers.”

Castro Valley has already lost much of it’s history, let’s not let this one go as well.

—Carl J. Lawler II

Lawler Photography, Castro Valley

More Complaints About Those #%@$¢ Castro Valley Traffic Lights

Editor:

I’m glad Leroy Milam (“Another Example of Fuel-Wasting Traffic Signals,” Letters, May 8) wrote about the light at Lake Chabot and Eden Hospital that goes red for no reason.

As I commute down Lake Chabot at 6 a.m. each weekday morning to CV Boulevard the light stops my progress. I am stopped at a red light waiting for the green light from Eden to exit onto Lake Chabot.  Then I continue to wait in the red light while I wait for the left turn from Lake Chabot into Eden Hospital. But there are no cars using these green lights.

This happened each morning on my commute to the Blvd. to catch the freeway. Therefore I have changed my commute to avoid this stupid light. I no longer travel to the Blvd. down Lake Chabot.  I’m sure there are many folks who travel Lake Chabot who are also frustrated with this light.

I hope that when the “old” Eden Hospital is torn down they will address this issue and have the light functioning only when traffic needs access.

—P. Freitas, Castro Valley

CVHS Boys Tennis Team, Coaches and Parents

Grateful to Car-Wash Host

Editor:

On behalf of the Castro Valley High School Boys Tennis Team, the coaches and parents, I would like to say Thank You to German and his staff at Certified Tire for hosting our car wash fundraiser on Sunday, May 5.

It was a wonderful event that succeeded because of the generosity of the people who came by to support the boys tennis team. To all of you as well: Thank You!

—Kristen Egan, Castro Valley

A Thank You for Support of Vannoy’s Cougarthon

Editor:

Vannoy Elementary School’s Annual Cougarthon (Walk-A-Thon) on Friday, May 3rd was a big hit!  The 400 students that participated had a great time walking, while raising money for their school!

The Vannoy Parent Club would like to thank all the business sponsors that made this event such a success:

Allstate Insurance, Vic Hauser; Anderson Orthodontics; Bay Area Green Printing; Big Tims Landscape & Tree Service; Custom Innovations Painting; Danielle Keil, Realtor; Dayna Matthews, Realtor; The Garage Body Shop; Gay Roberts, Realtor; Golfland; Good Times Daycare; Gracefully Global Publishing; Have a “Ball” Child Care; Hill’s Veterinary Hospital; Knudsen’s Ice Creamery; KQED; Landmark Villa; L.B. Reed Construction; Pacheco Brothers Gardening; Right At Home; Rockin Jump and Screenmobile.

We also want to send an extra special thank you to Safeway (Redwood Road) and Sprouts (Dublin) for the very generous donations in gift cards. Thank you to the Alameda County Fire Station No. 6 for coming out to cut our starting-line ribbon and the California Highway Patrol for sending Officer Schmeck to cheer the walkers on! All of our community support made this day successful and memorable! Thank you from the 2013 Vannoy Parent Club!

—Jennifer DeJanes & Serena O’Hara

Cougarthon Coordinators

Outraged by Locked Lake Chabot Gate

Editor:

We have lived in Castro Valley for 40 years and for 40 years we have accessed Lake Chabot through the Grovenor Road gate, even though the sign says “No Park Access.” This has been condoned for 40 years and perhaps longer. A precedent has been set.

We have always been respectful to the residents living near the gate. Now, the gate has been shut tight and barbed wire has been woven along the bottom (to prevent ducking under the gate) and bands of barbed wire have been added to the top (to prevent climbing over).

This is outrageous. It presents a major inconvenience for all of the residents of the neighborhood. Park access for these residents now requires going to Redwood Road and using

Ten Hills Trail or going to Lake Chabot Road and using the main entrance.

Additionally, if a fire broke out while people were in this area, they would not be able to escape through this gate. This is a potentially deadly safety hazard.

Our tax dollars support Lake Chabot. We want to enjoy it to the fullest. I’m sure I speak for the majority of residents in this neighborhood when I implore East Bay Regional Parks to return this gate to its former state.

—Katy Wright, Castro Valley

Upset Over Frequency of Letters

From Scott Richardson

Editor:

It’s hard to give any credibility at all to the Forum letter written by Jacques Dailey (“Asks When is Open Debate Not Welcome in the Market Place,” Letters, May 8) when it takes him five paragraphs to finally write, “On a serious note.” Even then, in my opinion, Mr. Dailey was all over the map but completely missed the point of Mr. Scott’s letter.

All good Americans believe in the First Amendment. But, just like you cannot yell “fire” in a theater, you should not be allowed to shove your opinions down anyone’s throat. By writing to the Forum every single week, Scott Richardson has become laughable, certainly not laudable. I, too, must ask the Forum, exactly when is enough, enough?

Mr. Dailey, I do know one thing for a stone, cold, hard fact: You will not now, or will you ever have the right to speak on behalf of me, as a woman, or my unborn child. Period!

—Christine Markham, Hayward

Says Equal Rights Not a ‘Left-Wing

Bias,’ But Basic Decency

Editor:

On court, Jason Collins should be treated no differently from any other NBA player. A team should sign him only if they think he can help them win, he should receive a salary commensurate with his expected productivity, and play exactly the amount of minutes he earns.

He should not receive special consideration as a player because he is gay; I doubt Collins himself would want anything different.

Oddly, there seems to be a belief that athletes who pray loudly in public should receive special consideration. Opponents of gay rights like Peter Hauer (“Coverage of Gay Athlete Called Demonstration of Left-Wing Bias,” Letters, May 8) have responded to Collins’ coming out by condemning the completely unrelated release of Tim Tebow.

Tebow was not released because he is Christian or heterosexual, or because he prays loudly in public; he was released because he was ineffective.

Should an athlete who prays publicly receive special consideration not granted to athletes who consider religion a private matter between the individual and his/her god?

In his list of “moral cancers,” Jacques Dailey (see above) neglects to include homophobia and other forms of bigotry. Yet bigotry is not only devastating to those targeted, ultimately it harms bigots as well by cutting them off from anyone who is different from themselves.

The fact that Collins may not face the severe abuse that Jackie Robinson coped with is an indication of our progress as a society. Because considering all people – regardless of race, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or ability – full and equal human beings entitled to full and equal human rights is not “left wing bias” as Mr. Hauer claims; it is basic decency.

—Carol Sholin, Castro Valley

Quotes from the Training Manual

Of the Good News Clubs

Editor:

As regards the recent flare-up over just what it is that the Good News Clubs (GNC) teach, I thought I’d let their volunteer training manual, “Why Evangelize Children?” speak for itself.

Here is the opinion of non-Christian children expressed in that manual: “It is clear from the Bible that a child who has not trusted Jesus Christ as his Saviour—no matter how young he is—is therefore spiritually dead, a sinner by nature and action, and that he is outside God’s kingdom.”

Is this the loving and caring that Scott Richardson mentioned in his letter? Teaching five year olds to think of their kindergarten classmates as Spiritually Dead, a subclass of humanity to be justifiably cast to eternal torment on Judgement Day?

The pamphlet goes on to explain just how to make kids accept Christ: “We all know from experience and from our own memories of childhood that children’s hearts are tender, and that they can be very sensitive and feel guilty concerning sin. They are more sensitive than adults and feel guilt more easily than adults.”

So, the best way to deal with children, by the training manual’s account, is to pummel them with the fear, shame, and guilt they are uniquely susceptible to until they submit to your way of thinking. Charming.

I do agree, though, with Jay Bonds – Freedom of Speech lets the Child Evangelism Fellowship practice its uniquely calculated and cunning psychological assault on children in a public forum all it wants, just as it allows me to advise parents strenuously against supporting them.  No doubt about that.

As a teacher at a religious boarding school for the past decade, I recognize the right of religions to say what they will on their own time. But it has been brought to our attention that the GNC has been allowed to distribute its advertising on school grounds during school hours through school teachers. That is a bridge too far, and urgently requires amendment.

—Dale DeBakcsy, Castro Valley

Recent ‘Boom’ and Street Prank

Are Serious Concerns

Editor:

Last Tuesday evening, April 30, between the hours of 10 and 10:10 p.m., a small bomb was set off by person or persons unknown.

This occurrence is not the first time this has happened. It is not out of the norm to hear fireworks around the 4th of July, but this was no firecracker. Someone knows who this person is.

Someone, but who? I would believe that the Sheriff’s deputies have responded to these explosions and on arrival the area is clear. The area seems to be around Stanton Ave. perhaps near Santa Maria.

My sister-in-law is hard of hearing but it was so loud it woke her up. I told her that I thought it was no firecracker, but a small bomb.

I also believe the Sheriff’s Office needs our help to find who is setting off these small (?) bombs. Don’t laugh about this, it is very dangerous.

The following morning, Sheriff’s deputies responded to Santa Maria Ave. near Jamison Way because some person or persons had placed an empty pressure cooker on the corner.

After doing what the deputies must do, placing their lives on the line for each and everyone of us each day, they sealed the area and brought the bomb squad in. Thankfully it was an empty pressure cooker.

Does this sound familiar? Of course it does. Boston! It is easy to believe that a teenager or an adult with little sense of humor may have placed this empty pressure cooker on the street thinking it was a fun thing to do.

No, it was not a “fun” thing to do. Once again I do believe that the Sheriff would like – and needs – our help in just who is setting off these small bombs and who placed the pressure cooker on the street corner. Safety should be in the minds of every adult no matter where they live.

I ask one further question of all parents living in Castro Valley and reading this issue of the Forum. Do you know where your children are tonight? Do you know who they are with? Are they behaving themselves?

We read so often that teenagers are out until early morning hours and when the deputy arrest them for whatever, those parents or so surprised. What have they been up to? I ask these questions and I hope that you are responsible enough to sit down with your teenagers and talk. Don’t be a “friend” to your children. Be a parent!

—R. Purdee, Castro Valley

Another Example of Fuel-Wasting

Traffic Signals

Editor:

Michael Lynch, in last week’s letters (“How to Save Gas, Time, Environment,” Letters, May 1) mentioned some signals in Castro Valley  that turn red for no reason at all, but didn’t mention which ones. I do know of one at Eden Hospital and Lake Chabot.

That signal turns red and stops the cars on Lake Chabot when, in fact, there are no cars exiting Eden Hospital.  And then to add insult to injury the left-turn signal goes to green, when again, there are no cars making a left hand turn into the hospital.

This usually stops 10 to 20 cars every time this signal stops the cars in both directions on Lake Chabot Road. I can understand this happening when work was going on at the hospital, but not now.

—Leroy Milam, Castro Valley

Grill Owner Looks for Support at

Monday’s MAC Meeting

Editor:

Muzo’s Grill at 3110 Castro Valley Blvd. is trying to open up a hot dog eatery. The county and the Castro Valley downtown business district plan does not allow “walk up” windows on Castro Valley Boulevard.

Muzo’s is asking for support at an upcoming MAC meeting on Monday, May 13 at 6 p.m. at the Castro Valley Library. Please help out and support small businesses in Castro Valley.

—Marc Michieli, Castro Valley

Says Castro Valley Restaurants Should Make Better Food and Worry Less About Truck Competition

Editor:

For all those who oppose food trucks making a weekly visit to Castro Valley, I’d point out the middling quality of the “established” restaurants in the area.

If these establishments are so concerned with competition, perhaps they should step up their quality instead of forcing residents to subsist on their mediocre offerings.

Just because these restaurants have been grand-fathered in and tolerated by the population for a number of years doesn’t mean they can get away with bland, run-of-the-mill food.

Food trucks would give Castro Valley residents a once-a-week chance to try something different and, as a working professional who deals with these food trucks often in San Francisco and Oakland, the thought of these trucks associated with crime (as one reader pointed out) is patently ridiculous.

These “established” restaurants in Castro Valley need a shot in the arm when it comes to business sense: Make better food, and you’d worry less about competition – particularly competition that would only be a weekly, not daily, factor.

—William Thompson, Castro Valley

Coverage of Gay Athlete Called

Demonstration of Left-Wing Bias

Editor:

Recently some Bay Area newspapers celebrated Jason Collins’ homosexuality as front page news.

They even compared Collins to Jackie Robinson, (the first black player to defy racial discrimination in baseball).  What an absurd comparison.

Jackie Robinson faced hostile crowds at nearly every stadium he played in. He even had death threats made against him. In contrast, not one sports fan I know of cares about what Mr. Collins does with his genitals.

Collins will not face any hostile crowds, and will not be vilified by anybody. Collins has not demonstrated the bravery of Jackie Robinson, because Collins has not faced the wide-spread and virulent opposition that Robinson faced.

The new media’s love affair with Jason Collins also demonstrates their left wing bias. When Tim Tebow tries to mention that fact that he is a Christian, journalists either ignore him, or they tell him to shut up about it. But when Jason Collins talks about his homosexuality, suddenly he is celebrated as a hero. People with common sense are sick of the media’s bias and propaganda.

—Peter Hauer, Castro Valley

Teaching Religion in School Club

Said to be ‘A Good Thing’

Editor:

This is in response to Billy Bradford’s letter (“Urges Parents to Research Message of ‘Good News Club’ at CV Schools,” Letters, April 24).

Many of the original pioneers of our country came here to escape the heavy-handedness of religion mixed with government. For this reason one of the basic tenants of our country’s constitution is the concept of Freedom of Religion.

The framers of our government strove to create a country in which people were allowed to freely decide how and if they would worship God. The government was not to dictate any one religion over another, but just to create a level playing field, a free market of religion.

Freedom of Speech ties together with Freedom of Religion so that people are free to talk, discuss and even argue about religion. But at the end of the day, how, when, where and if they chose to worship God is a personal decision.

It’s not a decision to be dictated by schools. It’s not a decision that’s inherited from your parents. It’s not a popularity contest. And it’s really not something that can be decided in a vacuum.

As in any “market,” more information is better than less. What are the teachings of Islam? Judaism? Zoraster? Buddha? Hinduism? Catholicism? Orthodoxy? Protestantism? Inquiring minds need to know; in fact they have to know if they are really going to make a free decision about religion.

People need to be exposed to other belief systems than their own. They need to see examples of how various points of view are lived out. Groups espousing their point of view and teaching about their religion in a school club is a good thing as long as it doesn’t interfere with the rest of school learning. It’s a good thing at college, high school and even elementary school (with parent’s permission).

—Jay Bonds, Castro Valley

Glad for Recent Publicity About

‘Good News Clubs’

Editor:

I would like to thank Billy (see above) for mentioning our local after school Good News Clubs and for encouraging others to explore their benefits.

They may not be for everyone, but some kids will certainly enjoy the activities. My cousin is a Good News Club assistant and often tells me how much she enjoys helping the disadvantaged adolescent girls in her group. It’s good to know that my cousin listens to them and cares for some of their needs.

Now I know Billy hates the thought of children being told about Jesus Christ, but they are not forced to accept Him. This is just another good example of Christian service in our local community and really is no different than the mission of our local churches, Christian schools, and global missionaries.

We have been commanded by Jesus Christ to care for the needs of others, especially children, and to deliver His message of reconciliation to all who will hear it, not just to those who will accept it. In fact, this clearly separates Christianity from most of those other religions that Billy mentioned. They don’t have a Savior that delivers from sin and death. They don’t have a God that truly loves them and cares for their needs. They don’t know that God invites everyone to come to Him and get to know Him.

Jesus says that anyone who comes to Him, He will in no way cast out. If we confess, He will faithfully forgive all our sins and cleanse us and our guilty consciences of all unrighteousness.

I wonder if Karl can tell me what part of my body holds my conscience. Well, I hope that his response will be as good as Billy’s last letter. Both men will remain in my prayers and I hope yours as well.

Please seek the Truth.

—Scott Richardson, Castro Valley

Asks When is Open Debate Not

Welcome in the Market Place?

Editor:

I read Mr. Scott’s letter to the Forum (“Too Many Letters from One Person?” Letters, May 1) with regard to Scott Richardson, and was rather mystified.

Did Mr. Scott actually promote choice, whether it be gay rights, or abortion, then turn around and request that the Forum censor letters from its readers? It certainly appears that way as he says “Please, I ask the Forum staff to make a policy as to just how often any one of us can write letters to your publication. Enough is enough.” Enough what, exactly? And how many times qualifies as enough?

What are your criteria, Mr. Scott, and would you hold the same criteria for other Forum “celebrities” like Stacy Spink, Mr. Siegel, Mr. Bradford and others? When is open debate and discussion not welcome in the market place?

Scott Richardson is a friend, and I find him to be a pleasant, likeable sort of guy and family man. That being said, I must not know him nearly as well as Mr. Scott, since I totally missed the propaganda spewing, Bible-thumping Christian republican right-winger part. But hey! Nobody’s perfect, right?

On a serious note, no patient ever wants to hear the word cancer; yet if a physician sees something amiss, he has a responsibility to point it out. The same goes for the passer-by who sees a home on fire. Are they qualified to tell what kind of fire it is? Does it really matter?

In the case of choice (that’s the preferred word for “abortion,” right?) those who can’t speak for themselves need someone who will speak for them.

In the case of gay rights, it makes sense for someone to say “Hey! There’s danger there!

There’s a better way.”  In the case of faith maybe someone needs to hear “Hey! There’s a God out there that’s bigger than all this, and He cares about you”.

Like the cancer victim, you can heed the warning or not; It’s totally up to you. But don’t blame the messenger.

—Jacques Dailey, Castro Valley

Says Letter-Writer Wants Only his

Opinion Recognized

Editor:

In reference to Mr. Scott’s letter, “Too Many Letters from One Person” and, in effect, asking the Forum to ban this person’s letters to the editor I would like to point out the following.

Mr. Scott, we have a free speech amendment in the United States.  This is what separates the United States from many countries in the world.

In your letter you refer to this person as “close minded,” “cannot force” and “enough is enough,” all the while giving us your political opinion, yet the reality of your letter is that you want your opinion recognized and to ban the free speech of another.

I’d like to commend the Castro Valley Forum for allowing us to participate in free speech which is one of our more precious gifts for being Americans.

—Dan Dalton, Fairview

Biblical Scholars’ Letters Remind Her

Of a Favorite Cartoon

Editor:

Whenever I open the latest Forum and find letters from Bible scholars  exhorting us to discriminate against some of the Lord’s creatures, I can’t help but smile as I recall my favorite cartoon: Two monks are walking side by side and one is saying to the other, “But I am holier than thou!”

—Kay Athos, Castro Valley

Calls on EBMUD to ‘Slow Down’ Rate Increase

Editor:

I am distressed to learn of EBMUDs proposed water rate increase. It is too much, too fast.

Many in my community have faced tough financial times over the last few years. Some lost their homes and are struggling to get back on their feet. Others have cut their discretionary spending so they can be sure they have money in their budget for basic living expenses.

The group I’m most concerned about is those on fixed incomes. For them, budgeting for upcoming expenses is crucial. The EBMUD rate hike of nearly 10% is slated to begin in just 9 weeks! Nobody can plan that fast. Even more upsetting to me is that rates are set to go up again another 10% next year.

These rapid water service cost increases do not work with the income projections of those of us living in the community. People on social security income received a very modest 1.7% increase this year on their earnings. Working folks like me got hit with 2% increase on payroll tax withholdings. Did EBMUD even consider those increases when they planned this rate hike?

I understand there is a cost for the service they provide and I am grateful for the high quality of our water. I know we need upgrades in the system but I urge EBMUD to find another source of funding for these maintenance costs.



A rate increase of this size is not acceptable and will be burden to many who simply cannot bear it. I think they should consider those they serve and our ability to pay when they plan for their own financial needs. Slow it down EBMUD!

—Allison R. Cook, Unincorporated San Leandro

How to Save Gas, Time, Environment

Editor:

Having suffered through the traffic in the Bay Area for many years, I have come up with some simple tips that I wish our traffic engineers would consider. None of these ideas are new. They  would make our lives much easier if only someone would do something about them:

1. Time the lights. Select some major thoroughfares, time the lights, and post the timed speed limits. I would gladly drive slower if I knew I could get through town without stopping at numerous red lights. This would cut down on speeding, too.

2. No light should ever go red for no reason. If

there are no pedestrians or cross traffic at the inter-sections on the most travelled streets, the traffic lights should remain green permanently. I can name at least 2 intersections in Castro Valley which turn red for no reason regularly, and I have seen one go red in all four directions at the same time on more than one occasion when there was no cross traffic.

3. Get rid of non-essential left turn signals. There is no need to sit and wait at lightly traveled intersections for a red left turn light to cycle through when there is no oncoming traffic.

Inexcusable! In Phoenix, they even have left-turn signals at some major intersections that only work during peak travel hours. The rest of the time you can turn left on a green light when it is safe. This gets you on your way much faster.

If somehow we could incorporate these measures, we could get to our destinations sooner, use less fuel, and spend less time polluting the environment by idling at unnecessary red lights for no reason.

—Michael Lynch, Castro Valley

Complains that Billy Bradford Wants

Everything His Way or No way

Editor:

Response to Mr. Bradford (“Urges Parents to Research Message Of ‘Good News Club’ at CV Schools,” Letters, April 24), you’ve already told our local churches in Castro Valley what they can or cannot preach at their own churches. Is that tolerant? Now you’re attacking the “Good News Club?” As you stated, they meet after school (no tax dollars), no child is forced to attend, and it requires parental approval.  What is wrong with that? Tolerant?

During public school hours (tax dollars) children are forced, yes forced to be informed on private lifestyles. Private means private not public! Yet parents aren’t allowed to “Opt” their own children out of classroom indoctrination time. Whether they feel that their own child is or is not ready for this type information, their parental rights are denied!

Why do children need to be informed who sleeps with whom in private? School is for reading, writing and arithmetic. Tolerance for Parental Rights?

It seems you want everything your way, or no way. Is your agenda to wipeout Christianity in America because Christian’s beliefs differ from yours? In privately owned churches and public schools (after school hours with privately sponsored funds); you want everyone to accept only your viewpoints or you insinuate that they are not tolerant and should be stopped. Are your actions tolerant?

Pastor Blevin’s (CV First) sermon on homosexual lifestyles was loving and truthful. He mentioned how Christians have at times messed up on how they’ve handled the homosexual lifestyle issue (Lev. 18:22, 20:13, Rom. 1:23-27, 1 Cor. 6:9). His message was tolerant. Are your letters?

You’re correct, Christians are going after those that may not have heard the “Good News” message. So? Tolerance?

Summer Challenge:  Need a good book to read?  This book has everything; sex, lies, fighting, murder, adultery, stealing (more), forgiveness, love, patience, redemption, and salvation.  The #1 Bestselling book, God’s Word, the Bible!

—Joanna Busch, Castro Valley

Blames ‘Good News Clubs’ for

Creating Divisive Atmosphere

Editor:

I would like to thank Mr. Bradford for bringing the presence of the Good News Clubs in our Castro Valley schools to our attention.

The Child Evangelism Fellowship that runs them is a multinational group with an expressed aim to turn children in the impressionable “4-14 Window” into schoolyard proselytizers.

In many programs, kids are awarded points, prizes, and candy for the more non-Christians they bring into the club (their term is “harvesting” their classmates), with the inevitable result that the non-Christian kids at school become targets.

The techniques the children have been taught for converting their fellow classmates include passing on descriptions of the Hell that awaits non-believers.

The CEF is very skilled at putting up an innocuous public face while distributing divisive literature and employing high-priced lawyers to threaten PTAs and school boards that get in their way.

Throughout the nation, wherever Good News Clubs have entered schools, they have ended by setting children against each other, and parents with them. Kids and adults who worked well together towards common goals of education and civic awareness become divided and mistrustful of each other, and the ability of the schools to function is seriously compromised in the process.

Here in Castro Valley, I think we pride ourselves on how much we care about education, and it would be a shame to turn our schoolyards into battlefields in the name of the CEF’s militant end-times agenda.

Let kids play, let schools teach, and let parents work together harmoniously.

—Dale DeBakcsy, Castro Valley

Too Many Letters From One Person?

Editor:

Two questions: (1) Does the Forum have a limit to the number of letters one person can write? If not your publications certainly should. (2) Why is Scott Richardson so desperate to get somebody, anybody, to pay attention to him that he feels he must write prolonged letters to a small town newspaper each week?

The answer to the second question is as simple as understanding why the far right wing of the Republican party can’t win a election. Richardson, like his fellow Bible-thumpers, is out of touch with mainstream America and he knows it.

Mitt Romney lost the last presidential election in a landslide even as President Obama ran with a terrible economy because American citizens now, and always will stand up and fights for their personal freedom of choice.

Just as a woman has the right to choose what to do with her body our gay citizens want the same right to wed as all Americans. And, unless and until the Republican party changes its agenda they will continue to lose elections.

Mr. Richardson just doesn’t get it because he, like many of his fundamental Christians, is so closed-minded and can’t see the world changing around him. You simply cannot force your own personal lifestyle on everybody. Gays do not want to change you Mr. Richardson, but you feel your faith gives you the right to change gays.

The only thing that “spoils” my breakfast Mr. Richardson is to open my Forum and see yet another one of your propaganda pieces each week. We get it already!

Please, I ask the Forum staff to make policy as to just how often any one of us can write letters to your publication. Enough is enough.

—Charles Scott, Castro Valley

Says Food Trucks Offer 5-Star Quality and More Choices ‘to Grab a Bite’

Editor:

I’m curious to know how food trucks in CV could possibly bring this lovely gem of a town more “down hill” than it is?

Ilsa Stai (Letters, April 24) must not read the Sheriff’s Reports in the Forum: rampant drug activity, drunks, robberies, truancies, murder, should I keep going?

In the past the food truck stigma has been labeled “The Roach Coach,” but these days the quality of most has been stellar – even 5-star – where top chefs even run them.

I see more choices available for a place to grab a bite and maybe mingle with other folks in the community.

—Manny Morales, Castro Valley

Thinks Traffic Complaints Should Go

Directly to the Agencies Involved

Editor:

Dan Dalton (“Too Many Blocked Intersections in Downtown Hayward Loop,” Letters, April 24) wrote that he would like the CHP to monitor and send patrols down to control traffic in the area of Foothill Blvd. and D street.

Mr. Dalton further recommended that “ Lt. Sherry and his crew” (the CHP) start issuing tickets and posting signs prohibiting blocking of the intersection.

The area that Mr. Dalton is concerned with is entirely within the boundaries of the incorporated city of Hayward, and not within the “jurisdiction” of the CHP.

Mr. Dalton should address his letters to the Hayward Police Department, because I doubt the Castro Valley Forum is read there.

I do not know why Mr. Dalton writes the Forum when he has a question, a request, or a recommendation for the CHP. I would like to recommend to Mr. Dalton that he call the CHP directly with his concerns.

—Richard Diamond, Castro Valley

Generosity of Castro Valley Merchants

Was an Eye-Opener

Editor:

Last week, Castro Valley Elementary had its first ever Dance-A-Thon. Our parents were incredible in the amount of energy and time they put in to make this event fun and memorable for our students, and wow, were they ever successful in doing so!  They always are.

I worked with our Dance-A-Thon Chair, Diana Navarro-Kleinschmidt in soliciting local business for sponsorship for our event t-shirts.

Diana and I stopped at many businesses in Castro Valley asking for money while another parent went to other businesses to ask for prizes. I was absolutely astounded at the number of “yes” answers we received.

We received monetary donations from Castro Valley Cyclery, USA Kung Fu Studio, Gee’s Expression, Frank Mellon, Fig and Clover Salon, Lifestyle Chiropractic, Dr. Shervin Yazdi, Growing Years Day Camp, ABC Preschool and Daycare, AJ’s Attic, Bottom Line Tax Service, The Kleinschmidt Family, and The Anaya-Witrago Family.

Local businesses also donated amazing prizes to our event: Quickly, Castro Valley Bowl, Golden Tee Golfland, Swiss Delices, Sylvan Learning, Eden Bicycles, Knudsen’s Ice Creamery, Aran’s Art Studio and Blvd. Burger all donated prizes that our students received for their hard work in raising money. Pizza Express, as always, gave us a generous discount on Pizza that we served at the event, and Safeway, donated water.

These businesses now have life-long customers from my family and many of the families from our school. It is all about community.

Castro Valley is a wonderful place in which to raise a family. This event, and the support our school has received from the business community, has reinforced that sense of pride in community.

—Dot Theodore, PTA President

Castro Valley Elementary

Urges Parents to Research Message Of ‘Good News Club’ at CV Schools

Editor:

Neighborhood Church is a very large church with plenty of room. So you might wonder why their “Good News Club” is using space on public elementary school property.

The Children’s Evangelical Network (CEF) sponsors these clubs, and their plan is to reach Castro Valley children from 5 to 12 years of age. They are currently in over 3,500 public elementary schools nationwide and growing, their goal is to evangelize to kids who are “growing up in non-Christian homes. If we are to evangelize the world, we must evangelize its children.”

Some schools have challenged the CEF’s use of school property, but CEF lawyers took the case to the Supreme Court which decided (Good News Club v. Milford Central School) that they can’t be denied entry.

To be clear, these sessions are after the last class, no child is forced to attend, and it requires parental approval. But they are targeting public school children for a reason: Mathew Staver, president and founder of Liberty Counsel (the CEF legal team) urged his fellow missionaries to “knock down all doors, all of the barriers, to all of the 65,000-plus elementary schools in the country and take the gospel to this open mission field now!”

If your family is evangelical Baptist this is indeed “good news,” but if your family belongs to the Jewish, Muslim, Catholic, Buddhist, Hindu or any other faith (or no faith) then perhaps not so much.

In the CEF’s own literature, public schools are “mission fields” and evangelizing in schools is characterized as “harvest work.” Children of other faiths are “unreached” and need to be “counseled for salvation.”

The Good News Club is currently in place at Independent and Jensen Ranch schools, I urge you to research their message to ensure it aligns with your family’s values before you allow your child to attend.

—Billy Bradford, Castro Valley

Too Many Blocked Intersections in

New Downtown Hayward Loop

Editor:

In a follow-up to the recent review of the “new” downtown Hayward loop, I would like to add that the Hayward Police and the CHP need to monitor and send patrols down to control traffic.

At 2:45 p.m. on a Friday Afternoon, as I tried to cross Foothill at D Street, it was impossible as all of the Mission and Jackson traffic are stopping in the middle of the intersections. The same was true 30 minutes later when I tried to cross Foothill at C Street, again all the Foothill traffic was blocking the intersections.

I recommend that Lt. Sherry and his crew go down to monitor and start issuing tickets to those that are blocking intersections and get signs posted to not block the intersections.

—Dan Dalton, Fairview

Calls Food Trucks ‘An Insult’ to

Downtown Restaurant Owners

Editor:

The proposal to encourage food trucks in Castro Valley is an insult to the remaining restaurant owners who survived the debacle of “Streetscape.”

These people have hung on by their fingernails as revenues plunged and customer bases diminished. The very idea that competition for our surviving establishments should be officially welcomed is hypocritical to the point of being criminal. Who really stands to benefit from this?

This is the same sort of thinking that brought us “Streetscape” in the first place (gotta love those weeds!) I don’t have anything against food trucks, I just don’t want to see anymore CV eateries go out of business.

If you haven’t already, re-read Chef Norman Pour’s recent letter to the Forum; his points are all right on target. I, for one, will not patronize anything other than established CV restaurants.

—Robert Johnson, Castro Valley

Lifelong Resident Says Food Trucks

Will Drive CV ‘Down Hill’

Editor:

“Down Hill” is the only place Castro Valley will go if these food trucks come in. Has anyone actually seen these things?

I  recently saw these “catering” trucks down at the old Mervyn’s parking lot in San Lorenzo. Aside from looking like the midway at a carnival, there was also an Alameda County Sheriffs outpost trailer parked along with them. That wouldn’t be there because they are collecting donations for P.A.L. would it?

People please wake up...this is a bad idea. I cannot believe MAC members are considering this! Do we not have enough crime in our town as it is.  I am all for a good taco truck now and again, but this is ridiculous.

Norman’s Grill’s owner is right – the Forum needs to be printing the names and contact information so the people can see what is really going on.

I have lived here all my life – this is not going to improve C.V.  at all.

—Ilsa Stai, Castro Valley

Detests ‘Elaborate Machinations’ of

Gay Rights Groups

Editor:

I would like to applaud Dr. Irene for warning us about the health risks of both gay and straight sexual practices. This is much better advice than telling others that their behavior is acceptable and offering full support of their sexual preferences, yet without mention of the harmful consequences that may follow.

Just to be clear, it is not so much the unnatural sexual practices of individuals that I deplore, but the half-truths, lies, and elaborate machinations of the Gay Rights groups that I detest. They now include some of the “health” agencies that Irene mentioned.

Not so long ago these agencies held opposite views, but were coerced into appeasement by the Gay Rights groups’ incessant political pressure. They now give full support to unproven social engineering that goes against millennia of good data.

They denigrate the roles of father and mother and disregard the essential needs of children. They play both sides of the health/disease equation by encouraging sexual practices that are well-known means of disease transmission.

The fact that a man’s gametes are issued along with several powerful immunosuppressive factors should give pause to anyone who thinks that the beginning and end of the digestive tract are suitable substitutes for the relative safety of the well-designed female reproductive system.

Dr. Irene did mention the risk of pregnancy, and yes, even preborn children are at risk of contracting STD’s, HIV or perhaps being killed by abortion.

Yet with all the known risks, sincere Christians like me who attempt to offer heartfelt advice against sexual immorality are vilified. I am a member of Redwood Chapel, not Westboro Baptist. I want everyone to know that their lives are precious and that their souls are priceless. I sincerely want all to be reconciled to God and seek His blessings for their lives.

Please be cautious and seek the Truth.

—Scott Richardson, Castro Valley

Says Dr. Landaw is Right: ‘Anti-Gay

Vitriol is Truly Damaging’ to Youth

Editor:

On April 13, Scott Richardson derided Dr. Landaw for her concern over the damage that is caused when people heap abuse on same sex attracted youth.

In fact, Dr. Landaw is in the super majority of health care practitioners as this country’s top medical organizations: the AMA, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Psychiatric Associations, and many more came to consensus in filing “the Windsor Brief” to the Supreme Court declaring the lack of any harm caused by same sex marriage, particularly when it comes to raising children.

This is because children need abundant and devoted nurturing for normal development, and not so much parents with enough testosterone or estrogen.

There is extensive research supporting Dr. Landaw’s concerns that the stress particularly that caused to youth by antigay vitriol is truly damaging. Yet Mr. Richardson gives us a glimmer of why some people have a hatred of gays when he throws in “...spoil everyone’s breakfast.”

Brain imaging shows that the primitive brain center responsible for the emotion of disgust (the insula) has higher activity in people who are opposed to Gay Marriage particularly when triggered by the topic. That’s why attempts to appear logical while removing other people’s rights never work; it’s an emotional response.

As you continue to work to find excuses that fit your feelings you engage in “Motivated Reasoning”, often to the point of damaging the children you claim to be concerned about.

—Karl Hodges, Castro Valley

Thanks for Support of Proctor School

Auction Fundraiser

Editor:

Proctor School PTA would like to thank the community for its generous support of our auction fundraiser. We very much appreciate the wonderful donations that we have received from local families and businesses!

—Debbie Parkes, Castro Valley

A Reminder of Why Castro Valley is ‘Such a Pleasant Town to Live In’

Editor:

On Tuesday evening, April 16, I went to the CV Post Office to purchase some stamps from the automated machine. Before I left the lobby, I placed them in an Express Mail envelope.

Somehow between the lobby and my car, the stamps dropped out. When I got home, I could not figure out were they had gone. I quickly returned to the Post Office, looked around and found a note left on the counter saying some stamps were found and to contact the branch employees the next day.

I made a trip back to the Post Office on Wednesday, lo and behold, the stamps I purchased were waiting for me. As the postal employee gazed upward, she indicated someone was watching over me.

To the kind and honest anonymous person who found those stamps, thank you so much! Such exceptionally considerate actions by people like you, I’m reminded why Castro Valley is such a pleasant town to live in.

Most appreciative,

—Donna Lee, Castro Valley

Welcomes Food Trucks. ‘Time for CV to Grow Up’

Editor:

It’s time for Castro Valley to grow up – and join the grown ups at the table. Food Trucks, maybe some Live music ... something to keep CV folks from leaving CV to spend their money.

—Tasha Amme, Castro Valley

Urges Property Owners to Protest CVSan Rate Hike

Editor:

The recent notice from CVSan marked “Notice of Public Hearing”  mailed to all property owners in the Castro valley area is actually a Prop. 218-mandated requirement notice of a fee (or tax) increase.

I feel the language of the notice is very unclear, and without a very careful reading, the real intent of the notice will not be understood.

This is the one and only opportunity for Castro valley property  owners to object to – and stop – an increase in this year’s and next year’s CVSan rates (from $260 to $303).

The only way to object is for property owners to submit a written objection to the CVSan. And the only way it will matter is if  a majority of property owners do so. (Approximately 8,000 or more objections will be needed to stop the proposed increase.)

Letters including the name, property address and signature  must be mailed to 21040 Marshall St., Castro Valley, CA 94546 and received no later then May 7th.

Also, property owners may object via email (including the same information) by emailing This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Also, petitions including the same information will be accepted at the meeting on May 7th at 6:30 p.m.

Only written objections will be considered, phone calls and protests at the meeting  will not be counted.

I encourage all Castro Valley property owners to get involved, by circulating petitions in their neighborhoods, and or submitting written objections to the CVSan.

—David Searcy, Castro Valley

‘Kudos to Nahas for Bringing on TJ Maxx’

Editor:

Stories and letters to The Forum opposing the proposed TJ Maxx Store are being voiced primarily by the neighbors along Jamison and Woodbine.

Yet again, the NIMBYs attack – Not In My Back Yard folks.

Ask the rest of the town? Majority of us are in favor of the new store and welcome the opportunity to shop in a well-established, nationwide discount department store other than Ross.

I have yet to hear anyone I personally know say no to this retailer. Kudos to Nahas for bringing on TJ Maxx!

—D. Lee, Castro Valley

Glad to See TJ Maxx Coming to CV – Tired of

Driving Out of Town to Shop

Editor:

Regarding the displeasure arising from the proposed site for a TJ Maxx store on Jamison Way, I can understand the concerns of the people who live there. But we also do not want to push a great alternative for shopping away.

Let’s face it. Castro Village is like our only existing mall and that’s sad when it comes to desired clothing. Yes, Ross is OK, but you are lucky to find two exact pairs of jeans you may want in the same size!

We are tired of having to always drive out of town. The tri-valley gets enough business from their residents. Please consider using the old Daughtrey’s building and it’s in a better location. There are other vacant buildings in this “ghost town” I am sure.

—Kat Dutra, Castro Valley

Correction on Letter-Writer’s Ratio of Votes

Opposing CV Cityhood

Editor:

Ross Bausone’s April 10 letter to the Forum about the 2002 incorporation vote got it exactly right. Our tax base can’t support CV cityhood.

He was wrong about the magnitude of the voter’s rejection, however. He said about 2:1. The actual result was closer to 3:1.  27.8% in favor of incorporation: 72.2% opposed.

—Steve Rosenberg, Castro Valley

Accuses CVSan of Leaving Out Important

Information on ‘Notification of Rate Increase’ Card

Editor:

Generally I think that the Castro Valley Sanitary District (CVSan) does an good job for our community. However, due to recent events, I would like to register my disappointment with the Board of Directors of CVSan as well as the General Manager, Roland Williams.

Recently property owners in the CVSan district received a “Notification of Rate Increases” postcard announcing a rate increase of 8% in 2013 and another 8% compound increase in 2014.

This postcard indicates that Proposition 218 (the 1996 Right to Vote on Taxes initiative) “requires notification of all property owners within the District prior to CVSan increasing fees.”

Via email on March 27, I asked CVSan if property owners would have a chance to vote on this increase. Mr. Williams replied on March 28 that no vote would be taken, but that if a simple majority of the property owners were to submit a written protest the increase would not occur.

In response, on March 28. I asked Mr. Williams “Shouldn’t that have been clearly stated on the postcard?” To date, I have not received a reply. Shame on CVSan for not being forthcoming or honest by making it clear that a majority of property owners could protest and prevent the increase.

Also, the postcard states that the increase for 2014 will be $22 per year, or $.67 per month. Isn’t $22 divided by 12 $1.83 per month? With this error, does the current postcard constitute a valid notification?

—Chris Leister, Castro Valley

Library May Be ‘Green,’ but Getting To and From? Not So Much.

Editor:

The new Castro Valley Library boasts about how “green” it is.

It uses a 277-kilowatt solar energy installation to provide 100% of its electricity. It has “bay friendly” landscaping (whatever that is). It has covered bicycle parking (and I’ve yet to see more than 1 or 2 bikes using it). It has a whole list of other “green” stuff.

With all this “greenness,” am I the only one to find it ironic that someone decided that the library should have a small parking lot – so small that often one has to drive around the lot two or three times to find a parking space? Most of the spaces are marked “compact” – didn’t the designers realize that many, if not most, people have non-compacts?

Am I the only one to find it ironic that in order to drive away from this “green” library to the eastern side of Castro Valley one has to drive about a half a mile out of the way and through at least four stoplights, thus wasting even more gas?

In other words, who is the person that decided only a left turn can be made out of the library’s parking lot?

The library itself is great. Getting to and from there is a different story.

—David Ross, Castro Valley

Says CV Tax Base Still Cannot Support Cityhood

Editor:

To incorporate Castro Valley, a request must be made to the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) and a feasibility study performed (which the County paid for in 2002).

The first draft of this study determined Castro Valley did not have enough of a tax base (commercial businesses or commercial real estate) to incorporate. A committee was formed to review the study and public hearings were held. Some people on the committee were so intent on getting incorporation on the ballot ( Measure Q ) that the figures kept getting adjusted until it could qualify. However the majority of the Castro Valley voters didn’t fall for the voodoo economics.

Nothing financially has changed since 2002.

Steve Dimick was part of the group for incorporation in 2002 and he is still crying about losing by a 2-to-1 margin, even though his group out-spent the Truth Group by about 4-to-1. The truth prevailed!

If the people who think cityhood is so great, talk to people who live in cities that are in trouble financially (Stockton, Richmond, Oakland, Vallejo, etc.).

—Ross Bausone, Castro Valley

Welcomes Food Trucks – Competition, Variety

‘Good Thing for Consumers’

Editor:

I’m a bit disturbed by businesses that say they are afraid of the food trucks taking away their business.

To me, that says they would rather have customers with nowhere else to go, rather than customers who chose them because they have better food and/or service than their competitors.

I think the food trucks are a good idea, as long as Castro Valley gets monetary compensation for allowing them to do business here. Competition and variety is a good thing for consumers. It forces businesses to step up their game if they want to remain in business.

Since moving here from San Ramon, I have been disappointed by many of the bland and boring restaurants around here. There are some good places, but not nearly enough. I strongly feel that we need more competition for existing restaurants, since many of them seem very lazy with the quality of food they offer.

If you use good quality ingredients and make good, tasty food, people will come to your restaurant. You don’t have to be fancy or overpriced. I wonder if any of these restaurant owners ever watch the Food or Cooking networks. There are tons of ideas there.

—Peter Bollwerk, Castro Valley

‘Disturbed’ by Crackdown on Internet Gambling

Editor:

As a patron who loves to go to the internet web and play the sweepstakes games here in Castro Valley, I’m disturbed by the haressment by law inforcement that will take everybody outside and run your name to see if your in violation of probation or parole or for warrants, when all everybody in the web is doing is sitting and pushing a button and chatting with friends.

Now the internet web is battling in court to stay open. I don’t understand why everyone is against the internet webs here or in any other town or city.

The internet web has armed and trained security for the patrons’ protection and for there own security as well. It’s a place to socially go without the bar scene.

All ages from 18 to 65 like to play or just use the internet services they provide. So maybe people need to go and see for themselves and play, you might find yourself having a “good time.” It’s nothing how people think. As a taxpayer and  long-time resident here in town, give them a chance before you judge.

So give us our place back. It’s fun and I want to play.

—Pamela Steffenson, Castro Valley

Thanks to All for Support of Vannoy Online Auction

Editor:

The Vannoy Elementary School Online Auction was a great success!  We would like to thank our generous donors, our wonderful staff, our parent community and our students.

Special thanks go out to our local supporters:

24/7 Soccer Academy, Alameda County Department of Education, Alameda County Fire Department, Alameda County Fair, Aran’s Art Studio, Bayo Vista, Body by Pam, Bryan’s Hair Company, Buffalo Bills, Castro Valley Florist, Castro Valley Independent Flag Football League, Castro Valley Junior Tennis, Castro Valley Performing Arts, Castro Valley Theatre Academy, Castro Valley Yoga, Castro Village Bowl, Century Theatre, Chanticleers Theatre, Cheese Steak Shop in the Village, Chouinard Vineyard and Winery, Chabot Theatre, Club K-9, Companion Animal Hospital, Crush Comics, Danielle Keil, Douglas Morrisson Theatre, Doug’s Place, Drake’s Brewing, Eden Bicycles, European Wax Center, Felicia Franco - Sports Photography, Gayle’s Specialties, The Inner Athlete, Jocelyn Girard-CMT, Kelly Maddox Riding Academy, Knudsen’s Ice Creamery, Koyomi Sushi, Little Red’s Barnyard Friends, Lucca’s Italian Delicatessen, Mel’s Shoe Clinic,  Rob Baker Photography, Ross Stores, Skin APeel, Swiss Delices, Sylvan Castro Valley, Tatum Tutoring, Vision Gallery Optometric Center and Young Image Spa.

—Meredith Taylor, Elyssa Eldridge

Vannoy Auction Co-Chairs

Gets Lost Driving in Hayward

Editor:

My thinking of the Hayward Loop is a disaster.

I drove it on a recent Thursday night about 10 p.m. I got on Jackson at Hesperian and was doing great until it was all detoured to oneleft-lane-only near the DMV.

I was forced to turn left and found out later it was Watkins St. and I didn’t see any more detour signs or street signs – it was too dark and the signs were too small.

Then, after I passed a sign, I saw that it said D Street. The sign should be larger and higher and the sign should say “D Street and Castro Valley.” I was lost on Main St. I found out later.

I ended up on Hazel to Foothill to Mission to Grove Way. It was a complete disaster. If it’s ready to use, why is it all detoured and where are the direction and detour signs?

—Martha Soto, Castro Valley

Dr. Landaw Responds to Scott Richardson’s

Accusations of ‘Dangerous Advice’

Editor:

Mr. Richardson wrote again to the Forum to protest that the letters “MD” after my name might not be real, since I gave “irresponsible and dangerous advice” in my letter imploring young gay people (“Don’t despair ... seek out kindness and compassion, stand up for equality.”)

Dangerous advice to seek out kindness and compassion instead of despair? Gosh, lots of people actually seek out kindness and compassion from their clergy, their teachers, their doctors, and their families. Pretty dangerous.

I did not give any medical advice about sex in my letter to the Forum. I don’t think it’s the right “forum” for that! But, like other real doctors, I do advise my patients in my office about the potential risks of sexual activity, and how to prevent them.

Mr. Richardson may not realize it, but straight teens and adults need to heed that advice just as much as gay people do. They face virtually all of the same health risks as gay people, plus the risk of pregnancy.

Mr. Richardson suggested that readers “Google” the health risks of the “lifestyle” he deplores.

I think there are better sources of information than random Google searches, which may lead to misinformation on any subject.

My first choice for people of any age or sexual orientation would be a confidential conversation with one’s primary physician. For those seeking information online, here are some more “letters” that Mr. Richardson may not like, but which readers seeking health information related to sexuality may find helpful: AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics, www.aap.org), APA (American Psychiatric Association, www.psych.org), CDC (Centers for Disease Control, www.cdc.gov), AAFP (American Academy of Family Physicians,www.aafp.org ), ACOG (American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology, www.acog.org).

All are organizations of tens of thousands of real doctors who give medical advice about human sexuality, and none of which consider homosexuality a “lifestyle choice” or a “disease.”

—Irene S Landaw, MD, Castro Valley

‘Appalled’ by Attack on Dr. Landaw

Editor:

When you can read and interpret ancient Greek then tell me about sound doctrine.

I don’t believe Dr. Landaw, a female and medical doctor held in high esteem in the community, would set forth a false credential, that she worked hard for in a chauvinistic world.

Irresponsible and dangerous? LGBT is not a lifestyle it is a fact, though some may abuse it.

The health risks cross gender lines.  Fornicators and cheaters are not limited to the LGBT community, nor are the health risks of promiscuity.

I am appalled by your personal attack on Dr. Landaw. I’m glad you read and semi approved my letter, but in the end “judge not lest ye be judged”

You will be in my prayers as well. God Bless.

—Connie Lekas-Lecatsas, Castro Valley

Richardson Predicts

‘Free Speech May End Soon’

Editor:

Jesus said, “From the beginning, ‘He created them male and female...the two shall become one flesh.’” Matthew 19:4-6 This is our Designer’s prescription for marriage. I have the right to tell others about this, just as they have the right to tell me that I am wrong. We both have First Amendment rights, at least for now.

Perhaps Peter Bollwerk (Letters, April 13) wasn’t here in the ’80s and is unaware of the AIDS epidemic and subsequent contamination of our blood supply with HIV. It’s recent history that everyone should examine. Gay rights groups denounced the implication that gay donors were the source. Blood collecting agencies were advised against donor screening and blood testing due to obvious discrimination charges and potential privacy rights violations, while many thousands of homosexuals and HIV+ blood recipients suffered and died.

Our national health agencies had to change the requirements for donor screening and blood testing, but the world has yet to follow suit. HIV is still among us and who knows what will be coming next?

How could anyone encourage our children to engage in such risky behavior? Children have no sense of consequence.

Same-sex marriage will encourage more children to experiment in homosexual and bisexual practices and risk exposure. Even now, many individuals, churches, businesses and conservative organizations are being sued for discrimination and/or hate speech.

Concerned parents are losing their ability to protect their children, no matter how young, from exposure to homosexual ideologies. Schools must comply with “Just the Facts” instructions under threat of severe penalties. Soon, religious freedom of expression will not be tolerated and the church will become the enemy of the state. Free speech may soon end.

Please watch: “Setting the record straight: The truth about homosexual marriage (Parts 1, 2, & Q&A)” by Greg Koukl on YouTube to help you understand. May God bless you all!

—Scott Richardson, Castro Valley

‘A Bible That Approves of Gay

Behavior? You’ll Have to Write it’

Editor:

So the latest question is, “does the Bible support homosexual marriage or behaviors?”  O.M.G...

The first mention of homosexual behavior is Genesis 19 and is described as “wicked.” Leviticus 18 outlines what God considers to be destructive sexual behaviors including adultery, homosexuality, and incest.

Jesus never contradicted this list. He spoke of marriage many times in the gospels, and always in the context of one man, one woman.  Always.

I’m not sure why everyone is so concerned what the Bible says on this topic. Many believe it’s just a work of fiction, so ignore it. But if you want a Bible that approves of homosexual behavior, you’re going to have to write your own.

Folks like to rationalize that Jesus accepts all people, and he does, but he does not accept all behaviors. A woman caught in the act of adultery was brought before Jesus by a mob ready to execute her (John 8:1). After using His perfect reasoning to convince them otherwise, He accepted this sinful woman – with the admonishment “Go and sin no more.” He loved her but insisted that her behavior must change. He could not accept her current lifestyle, but would accept her if she repented.

A rich young man – with incredible moral credentials – came to Jesus seeking salvation (Matthew 19:22). Jesus asked him to do one thing, but the man was unwilling. He went away very sad, unchanged, and unaccepted.

The Bible clearly says the price of acceptance and forgiveness is repentence. Not everyone is willing to pay that price. Even wonderful, upstanding people.

But it seems the verse that really speaks to our current rationalization of homosexual relationships is the last verse of Judges: “...and everyone did what was right in their own eyes.”

—Stacy Spink, Castro Valley

Norman’s Grill Owner Calls Food Trucks ‘A Bad Idea’

Editor:

As a resident of Castro Valley and the owner of Norman’s Grill on Castro Valley Blvd., I am against bringing food trucks to Castro Valley.

Why would MAC want to bring these trucks to Castro Valley? If the MAC members are residing in Castro Valley or if they are familiar with our town, they should know that a few restaurants have gone out of business in the last couple of years. These food trucks will push a few more local restaurants out of business. Is that what they want ?

Over $9 million was spent to make the Boulevard more beautiful. Was that money spent so MAC could bring catering trucks to line up on the side of the Boulevard? Is this going to enhance the beauty of our town?

Have they considered the kind of crowds these trucks will attract from the neighboring communities and the safety problems they might create? Have they asked the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office for their experiences, opinions and input?

The revenues promissed by these food truck operators will be counter-balanced by the reduction of the tax revenues from the local restaurants whose sales would drop. It is simple math; do I have to explain more?

This is a bad idea. I hope MAC and all those in charge of this decision will do a little more study and research before making their final decision.

I am requesting the Castro Valley Forum, our well read local paper, to publish the names of the people in charge. The residents of Castro Valley should know who is making these unthoughtful and haphazard decisions which affect their town.

—Norman Pours, Castro Valley

Wants Daughtrey’s Building ‘Eyesore’ Torn Down

Editor:

The old Daughtrey’s/Family Billiards Building on the Boulevard is such an eyesore. It really looks like blight and gives the downtown a rundown appearance.

This outdated eyesore should be torn down and the open space should be paved and used for public parking. Public parking is needed,as more people want to shop at the Village and parking can get real difficult at peak hours.

More parking space equals more customers spending money at

stores and shops.

Food trucks could set up on weekends at the Farmers’ Market, or have a Farmers’ Market at the ‘new’ open space lot where the old Daughertys building location once was.

Closing a busy street down for Food trucks is not such a great idea.

What’s going on with the vacant shopping center at Lake Chabot Road

and Quail? Another eyesore property nobody wants?

—Stefan Morosky, Castro Valley

Incorporation ‘Can and Should Happen’ – Turn

Daughtrey Building into the City Hall

Editor:

Midge Lewis (“Cityhood? Where Will the Money for Police, Firefighters Come From?” Letters, March 20) makes a good point in where would the money come from for the City of Castro Valley.

Like every city in California, the money would come from the taxes that all of us pay. That moneys derived from real estate taxes, sales taxes and other means of taxation. I will admit and perhaps I should have inquired from Alameda County how much in real estate and sales taxes are returned to their local cities, but I did not do so.

Ms. Lewis must be aware of Prop. 13, voted on many year ago, which limits real estate tax to two percent. The only time that changes is in the sale of real estate, home and business lands.

Steven Dimick writes “Lots of posititves for Incorporation...but it aint gonna happen” (Letters, March 20). It can happen and should happen. What could be a better place for “city hall” than the old Daughtrey’s store? It is old and needs repair, but it is in the middle of Castro Valley.

Fire protection and law enforcement are already here. Cities have contracted with Alameda County Fire for their protection and that make good sense. Law enforcement we already have with the County Sheriff’s Office.

We have our MAC board and I believe there are several folks there that would make a good city council. One more advantage would be that we would no longer need to have the county building department tell us what and what not we can do and add to that countyroads. Take a look at the weeds on Castro Valley Blvd.!

Money could not have been diverted from project to project without the needed city approval, which I am sure happened to our Blvd.

It is time for the citizens of Castro Valley to really sit back and think hard about Castro Valley becoming a city. There are many good people here that would make a great mayor and council members. It takes lots of planning and dedication for such an endeavor.

—Richard Purdee, Castro Valley

Student on a Budget: ‘Ecstatic’ About TJ Maxx Coming to Castro Valley

Editor:

I am writing in regards to the recent article about the TJ Maxx store being built in the Village.

When I heard that Castro Valley was finally getting a clothing store besides Ross I was ecstatic. As a high school senior on a definite shopping budget, it is nice to know I will have more options in the future as to where I can get low cost clothes.

My only concern is the same that was addressed in the article: that traffic in the village will only worsen with the addition of a bigger store. The increased amount of shoppers will probably help local businesses sell more though, which will be a huge plus.

—Sarah Eandi, Castro Valley

Scores Doctor’s Letter Supporting Gay Youth

Editor:

I wasn’t planning to respond to those who mentioned me in last week’s Forum, but two letters made me change my mind.

They are not the letters written to tell us how God loves everyone anyway, or how God made everyone the way they are and it doesn’t really matter anyway – so just accept it.

No, those two are not the letters that bother me, even though they both negate sound Biblical doctrine. The two letters that bother me are the M and the D after Irene Landaw’s name (“Offers a Word of Hope for Young People Who Struggle With Rejection,” Letters, March 27).

After considering this doctor’s advice, I must call it irresponsible and dangerous. If she is in fact a medical doctor, then I think that she should warn her patients of the health risks associated with the lifestyle that she promotes.

I don’t want to list any of them here and spoil everyone’s breakfast, but anyone considering that lifestyle should first become well aware of the facts before proceeding.

Please don’t take Irene’s advice. Instead, “Google” the health risks yourself and don’t be shy.

Your life may be the one that is saved. May God bless you all!

—Scott Richardson, Castro Valley

Says Interpretation of Bible Not Sufficient

Justification to Infringe on Others’ Rights

Editor:

This is a response to the two March 20th letters responding to Billy Bradford’s letter (“Asks Local Churches to End Anti-Gay Sermons,” Letters, March 13).

I fully support the rights of churches to have sermons on any subject they wish and I would agree that it is a legitimate interpretation of the Bible to condemn homosexuality. However, there are also other interpretations which would disagree with this.



Nevertheless, if your interpretation is that homosexuality is wrong, that is not sufficient justification to infringe upon other people’s rights. We are a nation governed by the Constitution, which affords equal treatment under the law.

Now, with regard specifically to Mr. Richardson’s assertion that “In fact, those wishing to promote homosexuality and redefine marriage will cause far more harm than good,” there is absolutely no credible research to support this.

What possible harm is there in allowing homosexual people to have the same rights as heterosexual people? In the states and countries that already allow this, I have seen no harm whatsoever directly caused by allowing this.

Let’s also consider how the Bible defines marriage:

An arranged marriage — Gen. 24:1-4 (and many other passages),

a levirate marriage (If a man died leaving no male heir, his brother was required to marry his widow and produce children) — Deut. 25:5-10,

a polygamous marriage — 1 Kings 11:3 (and many other passages),

not interracial — Deut. 7:14; 1 Cor. 7:39; 2 Cor. 6:14.

Filled with sexual prohibitions, not allowed to be dissolved, i.e. no divorce — Matt. 5:31-32; Mark 10:2-12; Luke 16:18, except when the man wanted to, because his wife had become ‘displeasing’ to him — Deut. 24:1-4, etc.

I see no reason we cannot define marriage to simply be between two consenting adults.

—Peter Bollwerk, Castro Valley

How to Complain About CHP’s Enforcement

Procedures

Editor:

This is in response to the letter about an incomplete CHP investigation of an accident (“Faults CHP Officer for Not Asking for License,” Letters, March 27).

Lt. Sherry is like Santa Claus keeping our community safe.

I had a similar experience. This is for any one concerned. Each needs to go to the Castro Valley CHP office on Redwood Road and ask for a CHP Citizens’ Complaint Information Form. This can be mailed to the California Highway Patrol,  P.O. Box 942898,  Sacramento, CA 94298-0001. They will investigate the complaints.

—Joan Reynolds, Castro Valley

Loves the Morning Exercise Routines For Those 55 and Over

Editor:

As a Boomer who loves the Beach Boys, the Bee Jees, and the Blues Brothers, I wanted to share with others about a new class in town. It’s great for Seniors who love Sinatra, too.

Laurie de Segiurant, our resident crooner and certified senior trainer, takes our group aged 55-plus through morning routines of dancing, stretching, and “doing the disco thing” that has made a real difference in how much better I feel and is great for those who have had joint replacement or other challenges.

I highly recommend this class for all of you who want to “move that bod” but hate doing the gym thing or for those who just need a little lift.

“Luvin’ and Livin’ (at 24 Hour Fitness on East CV Blvd.) has added something special to my day. Billed as “a positive social atmosphere where life’s challenges disappear and all the reasons for living life to the fullest come into clear view,” the class is easy and fun. Guests are welcome to check it out without being a member so throw on your tennies and join us.

Kudos to Laurie and his team for a great job!

—Kathy Padro, Castro Valley

Jensen Ranch Elementary School

Doing Its Part for the Environment

Editor:

As you know, our earth is getting polluted a lot. To prevent this from continuing, our school is doing a lot of important things.

First of all, we have a school garden. Each class has its own area to plant fruits and vegetables. If we eat them straight from the garden, it helps reduce the amount of packaging sent to the landfill.

Each year the student council sends some students to do a waste audit. They sort through the students’ trash and see what could have gone into the recycling, the green waste, and stuff that had to go into the trash.

Finally, after lunch each day, three students help with the recycling process. They sort the trays and also tell others what goes into what bin if they do not know. This helps because if people know what goes where, a lot less trash would be created.

As you can see, Jensen Ranch is doing their part in helping the environment. With you also doing your part, we will definitely make the earth a much better place.

—Oliver Zhang

4th Grade Student Council

Jensen Ranch Elementary School

Takes Issue with Phil Hunt's Column on Prop. 13

Editor:

In the March 20, 2013 Castro Valley Forum, Phil Hunt wrote about Prop. 13, and he got most of it right. Unfortunately, he made a few errors.

Mr. Hunt stated "Porp. 13 is in the crosshairs of State politicians who would love to see it eradicated." Sadly, these types of statements feed into the fears and disgust that members of our community have towards politics and government. Since Prop. 13 is part of the California Constitution, it can only be changed by a vote of the people, not politicians.

Second, Mr. Hunt states “Someday, Prop. 13 will be all but gone because every property will have been sold and assessed value will be at the sales price.” No, Prop. 13 will not be gone; its cap provisions limit all future year increases after properties are sold, thereby providing all of Prop. 13’s benefits of lower taxes.

Indeed, that process created one of the inherent and perhaps unintended inequities of Prop. 13: residences are sold more frequently than commercial properties. Since corporations are people too (according to the U.S. Supreme Court), but unlike people they cannot die, corporate-owned properties are rarely sold (shares of stock change hands, but those actions do not trigger reassessment).

As a result, residences (houses) carry an unfair burden of property taxes compared to commercial properties like stores, factories, and warehouses.

The only discussion among politicians regarding Prop. 13 – the third rail of politics – is whether to ask the voters (us) if we want to split the property tax rolls to tax commercial properties at a higher rate to eliminate this inequity. Corporations would pay their fair share of property taxes with a split roll. Even so, only the voters may enact such changes, not politicians.

Prop. 13 is going nowhere given the current climate, so let’s stop being afraid and distrustful.

—Brian A. Foster, Castro Valley

Faults CHP Officer for Not Asking for License

Editor:

I can appreciate Lt. Sherry’s nice letter of March 20 on the work of the CHP in keeping our streets safe. However, my wife had an experience last year which made me wonder about CHP guidelines.

She was rear ended in a rain storm while stopped at a stop light.  The CHP officer arrived and asked my wife and the other driver if anyone was injured, both answered “No,” and did both have insurance, both answered “Yes” and then he left. I arrived on the scene after the CHP officer had left and quizzed the other driver who was an illegal alien without a driver’s license.

I should think that the CHP would first validate whether a driver has the right to drive and then proceed to review other documentation. In this case, the officer asked two questions and left without asking the most important question, “Where is your driver’s license?”

—Dan Dalton, Castro Valley

Says Letter-Writer Forgot God’s Basic Message

Editor:

If I counted correctly, Scott Richardson (“Warns of Harm by Those Who ‘Promote Homosexuality, Same-Sex Marriage,” Letters, March 20) mentioned “God” seven times in one letter yet somehow forgot God’s basic message of love of all of his children.

Interesting that Mr. Richardson said that, “it may seem impossible for people to change, but God can change anyone.” Sorry, but people do indeed change Mr. Richardson, as you would know if you watched television news or read a daily newspaper. People from both sides of the political aisle – Republicans and Democrats alike – are changing their minds, beliefs and votes daily on the rights of gays to be married.

Perhaps it is possible that someday you, too, Mr. Richardson will see the light of change and come to the sound reasoning that many like you have that homosexuality is not a “sin” (and in fact, nowhere it the bible is homosexuality called a sin) but a message from God that we are all equally loved and blessed by Him.

—Chris Scott, Castro Valley

Are Christians Practicing What They Preach?

Editor:

I am an Orthodox Christian, and part of my belief is that God does not make mistakes. In other words, heterosexual, homosexual, sinner or saint. God made you just the way you are!!!

Romans chapter 2: “Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself.”

Practice what you preach?

—Connie Lekas-Lecatsas, Castro Valley

Offers a Word of Hope for Young People Who Struggle With Rejection

Editor:

I will not directly respond to the gentlemen who wrote about sin and “lifestyle(s that go) against God” in last week’s Forum. Instead, I address the young people of our community who may struggle with this rejection of who they are from people who seek to change them.

You are not broken; you are not “sinners” because of how you were born or who you love; and most importantly, you are not alone. There are many in this community who accept and welcome you--even several communities of faith.

Don’t despair when you read or hear otherwise – seek out kindness and compassion, stand up for equality. We are here for you!

—Irene S. Landaw M.D., Castro Valley

Wants to Keep Castro Valley Just the Way it is

Editor:

I just love, power-hungry want-to-be-politicians...

Always ready with brilliant ideas, the sad part is that, their ideas are never for the benefit of us citizens,  always working best for their special interests and for their bank accounts.

When things work, let’s leave them alone. Look at the Blvd. We have enough clowns making bad decisions, we do not need also a mayor to make matters worse.

Castro Valley is great place to live, I am in agreement with Steven, Midge and other residents who want to keep it the way it is for many, many years to come, best regards to each and everyone.

To the would-be politicians that don’t like it here and want to make changes to our town, perhaps, moving to another city might be to your best interest.

Citizens of Castro Valley, we must not let our guards down.

—Josie Pastorino, Castro Valley

Thanks to Those Who Removed Graffiti

Editor:

A big thank you to those wonderful people who cleaned the graffiti off the windows and stucco of Kay’s Bridal Shop Building.

You are all angels. Thank you so much for keeping Castro Valley Graffiti free.

—Sim Mirande, Castro Valley

MAC’s Miraglia: ‘Grave Reservations’

About TJ Maxx Traffic Impact

Editor:

Correction: (“MAC Approves New TJ Maxx Store in Village,” Page 1, The Forum, March 13)

The final CVMAC vote on TJ Maxx was actually 5-1-1.  I abstained from the vote and stated why for the record: While I am for economic development, I have grave reservations about the traffic impact on Redwood Road and Jamison and in my estimation those concerns have not been satisfactorily addressed.

Although there may be 6 entrances going into the Village, I believe that the majority of traffic – particularly from those traveling from San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Hayward, and Oakland – will take the Redwood Road exit from the freeway.

Sure, we get increased sales tax revenue, but responsible planning must go hand-in-hand with economic development.

And what seems to be forgotten by some is that we, as in Castro Valley, do not get that revenue directly (it goes into the County’s general fund) and yet Castro Valley residents will most definitely have to bear the burden of any traffic fiasco that would occur – particularly the people in the surrounding area.

The Council made its decision based on the reports and on the testimony given. Sadly, there were only about 10 speakers – half for, half against. That leaves about 64,000 other people largely unaccounted for.

It would have helped the Council immensely to have heard from more residents about this project...instead of just rumblings after the fact via this editor’s page or Facebook – most without benefit of the facts.

The MAC volunteers countless hours on

behalf of the community and goes to bat for Castro Valley more than the vast majority of Castro Valley realizes, but if the community will not participate in the process, the end results will not necessarily be reflective of what the larger community wants.

It takes only 5 minutes to send an email or an hour or two to attend a hearing. We could all have a higher probability of more representative government if people would just engage.

Once the Planning Director makes his decision (which will more than likely be approval), the public has only 10 days to file an appeal with the Board of Supervisors; otherwise the project approval would stand as is.

—Cheryl Miraglia, Vice Chair

Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council

Welcomes TJ Maxx, But Traffic

Concerns Must Be Addressed

Editor:

I applaud the owners of the Village for bringing a major retailer to Castro Valley.

While many of us wish a more upscale merchant would be considered (e.g. Macy’s, a Nike Store, or a GAP/Old Navy/Banana Republic), apparently our demographics suggest such one discount store will thrive next to another discount store (Ross). Fair enough.

Whatever business comes in, assuredly the merchants of the Village will see a modicum of new foot traffic.

What concerns me, and many locals in the area, is the car traffic that will increase in an already overly congested area. Mainly, I’m concerned about the left turn from Redwood Road onto Jamison, and the left turn from Jamison onto Redwood Road.

Since the main entrance to TJ Maxx will be on Jamison, I would like the Planning Committee to consider a left turn lane, or perhaps a light, to address the left turns.

With the increased traffic, it will be dangerous without these commonsense measures, and lead to a lot of traffic congestion, the blocking of intersections on the Blvd., particularly next to Peet’s, and on the corner of Jamison and Redwood.

Moreover, since so many of our older citizens as well as CVHS students walk home along this route, we hope a plan to keep this area as safe as possible will be put forth and implemented.

The community has started a petition to have the developers articulate a plan to keep our streets safe for the pedestrians in the area and to lessen the congestion so that consumers will actually enjoy coming downtown to shop.

Here’s a link to the petition. I hope you’ll consider sharing it with your readers and neighbors:

http://signon.org/sign/stop-traffic-congestion

—Corey Vitello, Castro Valley

Cityhood? Where Will the Money for

Police, Firefighters Come From?

Editor:

Richard “Dick” Purdee (“Time for CV to Become a City?” Letters, March 13) thinks that Castro Valley is ready to be a city with a city council and a mayor.

Where does he think the money for this venture will come from besides from tax revenue?

Where will the money for police and fire come from if not from tax revenue?

Cityhood  will cost the citizens of Castro Valley a lot more than TJ Maxx and food trucks will bring in.

I pretty much agree with the other parts of his letter and am interested in reading his answers to my questions.

—Midge Lewis, Castro Valley

Lots of Positives for Incorporation...

but ‘It Ain’t Gonna Happen’

Editor:

Richard Purdee (Letters, March 13) thinks it is time Castro Valley became a city. Unfortunately, it ain’t gonna happen.

It didn’t happen back in 2002 when voters nixed the idea by better than a 2-to-1 margin and it’s not going to happen in the foreseeable future.

Yes, an incorporated Castro Valley would have more of a voice in its own affairs. But the fearmongers during the last attempt convinced the voters that a city council would be “another layer of government.”

Never mind that our current government is headquartered in Oakland. Never mind that our governing body is the Alameda County Board of Supervisors, none of whom live here and only one of whom cares at all about us.

Never mind that if Nate Miley were a terrible representative (don’t get me wrong: he is not) we couldn’t vote him out of office because we simply don’t have enough votes.

Never mind that an elected city council would actually replace the county as our governing body. Never mind that an incompetent city councilman would find himself out of a job at the next election.

The fearmongers also sold the idea that “they” (that nasty city council elected solely by our own voters) would raise our taxes. Never mind that raising taxes takes a two-thirds vote of the electorate. Never mind that the voters in the rest of the county imposed two new taxes on Castro Valley during that same election. They vote, but we pay.

We were told that “they” would bring big box stores to our community. Never mind the fact that there’s no place here to put a Home Depot or Walmart. As if one of them would even want to locate here.  Never mind the fact that if the county wanted to invite a big box store to open here, there wouldn’t be a thing we could do about it.

Never mind that Castro Valley residents had nothing at all to say about the Streetscape project and the damage it caused to our merchants.

Never mind the fact that we don’t have a local police force. Never mind that...

Oh, well. Never mind the facts.  Facts are such pesky little nuisances.

The most important fact, however, is that although it would be delightful if we could control our own affairs as most communities do, you shouldn’t hold your breath.

—Steven Dimick, Castro Valley

Longtime Resident Wants Better

Variety of Businesses in Town

Editor:

As a longtime Castro Valley resident, I am as frustrated as many with the availability and variety of local businesses.

I have no idea who is in charge of drawing new businesses to Castro Valley or encouraging the existing businesses to participate in helping our unincorporated area flourish.

What I can say is that my family cannot find the type and quality of restaurant, clothing store, and many other services that we would love to find locally. When we do find a local business to support, we do so with pride.

In regards to the Food Truck topic, I did a happy dance when I read this is under consideration. For the local restaurant owners who are worried about competition, please visit a food truck event. If the quality of the trucks is equal to Off The Grid, your establishments don’t offer what they do.

It’s a once-a-week event that has the probability of drawing me to our downtown area. I might event pop into your stores while there. But, holding the event in the parking lot of the former Daughtrey’s store makes no sense.

Why does the event have to be hidden from view rather than celebrated? Why locate it where it will be difficult to attend? Is the goal to fail?

As meetings to revitalize Castro Valley appear ( in publishing at least) to be driven by those who are already in business here, I can only say “ if we keep doing what we always do, we will get what we always get.”

Talk about improvements and new offerings cannot be implemented when there is resistance to change. The answer to new business starts cannot always be to use the existing Daughtrey’s building. There is not enough parking and if the building does not meet use or safety standards that cannot be done.

—Linda Nunes, Castro Valley

Warns of Harm by Those Who ‘Promote

Homosexuality, Same-Sex Marriage’

Editor:

Regarding Billy Bradford’s letter (“Asks Local Churches to End Anti-Gay Sermons,” Letters, March 13), my wife and I are members of Redwood Chapel Community Church. We love singing praises and worshipping God there.

We hear messages of love, hope, deliverance and reconciliation. Soon we’ll celebrate Easter. I hope Billy will visit.

I hope everyone in our community will visit the three fine churches that Billy maligned. At each, they will meet sinners who’ve been redeemed now eager to share the gospel.

It may seem impossible for people to change, but God can change anyone. That’s the heart of the Easter message. God sent His Son to provide the way to change the lives of all who trust Him.

Jesus offers forgiveness, reconciliation and eternal life to all sinners who repent and believe.

Please don’t believe Billy’s message. He wants to stifle us, but the problems with homosexuality will not disappear if we’re silenced. In fact, those wishing to promote homosexuality and redefine marriage will cause far more harm than good.

Truly our gender, sexuality, marriages and humanity are part of the created order. As the Apostle Paul eloquently stated in Romans, if we don’t acknowledge God as our Creator and if we’re not thankful for the good things God has provided, then our bodies, minds, marriages, families, societies and our dignity as human beings will degenerate from dysfunction to depravity, similar to ancient Rome.

As a Christian, I must stand for God’s truth wherever I can and love everyone enough to warn them about choices leading to harm and separation from God.

So, for those who promote homosexuality and same sex marriage, please be aware that you stand against the very purpose and blessings that our Creator has provided. As a fellow sinful human being, I earnestly ask you to read Romans and reconsider your position before more harm is done.

—Scott Richardson, Castro Valley

‘Appalled’ by Bradford’s ‘Gall’ in

Request to Churches

Editor:

I find it rather appalling, actually more laughable, that a disagreement on something is labeled “anti” or “hate,” and the gall to ask churches not to preach what God says is an abomination.

I am a Christian, I have “gay” relatives who I love but cannot condone their lifestyle that goes against the nature of God.

Mr. Billy Bradford (Letters, March 13) is very well versed with scripture and should then know what God says on this matter, so maybe he should take it up with Him or maybe Mr. Bradford might have fallen from grace at one point and doesn’t think he is worthy, but in reality God’s easy to reach. “The grass withers the flowers fade, but the Word of God stands forever.” God Bless.

—Manny Morales, Castro Valley

Blames High Density Developments

For Loss of Town’s Rural Feel

Editor:

I read with interest the exchange of letters regarding a new housing development called the “Proctor Canyon” project.

I was particularly struck by a letter from one reader, who expressed support for the project and opined that “It’s unrealistic to believe these large oversized lots will not be developed in time.”

Without doubt the author is exactly correct in his assessment about the inevitability of this and other such subdivision projects. Like death and taxes, turning big lots of land in Castro Valley into quick profit, high density housing seems to be unstoppable.

However, as in the case of a death in the family, I think it would be worthwhile to stop and reflect for a moment about what has been lost due to this “progress.”

I have enjoyed living in Castro Valley for a quarter of a century and I have watched as so many of the big properties and ranch/farm lands that gave Castro Valley a unique feel have been demolished in the name of  high density development.

What little remained of the history of the town as an egg and chicken center or a rural community has pretty much been chopped up and plowed under.

A normal family cannot buy a house with a big lot, as the potential profit in subdividing the land grossly distorts the property value. Developers win, the townsfolk lose. Same old, same old.

For just one moment, mourn the loss. And then move on.

—Rick Kelly, Castro Valley

California Highway Patrol Takes 15

Dangerous Drivers Off CV’s Streets

During St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

Editor:

The CHP Castro Valley statistics for the St. Patrick’s Day Weekend included 15 DUI arrests, two arrests for Burglary/Possession of Stolen Property, two DUI warrant arrests from our St. Patrick’s Day warrant service operation, and no fatal collisions over the weekend.

I am pleased to report 15 impaired drivers were removed from the road in the 48 hour period.

Our officers’ enforcement efforts prevented the loss of life, injuries and property damage.

Additionally, two citizens were arrested at their homes for failing to comply with their court orders in regard to their previous DUI arrests.

The Castro Valley CHP sent a clear message this weekend that drinking and driving is not tolerated in our community. I want to thank the citizens who chose to drink responsibly or arrange for a safe ride home.

Together in partnership, we can save lives and prevent tragedy.”

—Lt. Christopher J. Sherry, Commander

California Highway Patrol, Castro Valley Area

Asks Local Churches to End Anti-Gay Sermons

Editor:

I believe in our Constitution, the one that guarantees equal protection under the law to all citizens. I believe in the constitutional guarantees of Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Assembly, and Freedom of Religion.

So I would never tell any of Castro Valley’s churches what they can or cannot preach. I can, however, raise awareness of what is being preached, and I can ask those churches to please stop preaching against Castro Valley’s LGBT families.

While so many businesses, organizations, athletic teams, politicians and welcoming faith leaders are telling our gay youth that “it gets better,” these churches are saying that it doesn’t really get better unless they stop being gay.

On July 15th of last year (just before Castro Valley Pride), Matthew Blevins preached at First Baptist on “Same-Sex Attraction” in which he said that being gay “misses the mark” that God intended when he made us. You can listen yourself online on their website.

On August 19th at Neighborhood Church, Tyler Scott preached on “The Matter of Homosexuality” in which he said that God painted a picture of “natural things” and we apparently don’t belong in that picture. You can find his sermon on their website.

Redwood Chapel has preached about us before and has indicated they will do so again.

I’m asking them all to please stop. We know that Jesus didn’t discuss homosexuality, nor did any of the four Canonical Gospels. It was only Paul, and he wrote about many things we never hear about in sermons. Perhaps they could preach on female ordination (1 Corinthians 14:34), or women who pray without covering their heads (1 Corinthians 11:5), or those who wear jewelry (1 Timothy 2:8). Or even a sermon about working on the Sabbath.

But please, no more sermons on being gay. It only causes pain and conflict for those who know they are gay and can’t change – but are being told they must change.

There is nothing wrong with us, our relationships or our families. I’m asking these churches to stop and instead help make Castro Valley a welcome place for everyone in our community. Thanks for listening.

—Billy Bradford, Castro Valley

Takes Exception to Letter Comparing Proctor

Canyon to Cardinal Court

Editor:

I am writing in response to Matthew Edson’s letter (“Welcomes Proctor Canyon Development,” Letters, March 6), in which he mentions that the proposed new development of Proctor Canyon is similar to the homes on Cardinal Court.

I live on Cardinal Ct., and the new development is not similar to Cardinal Ct.  First, all of the lots on Cardinal are over 10,000 square feet. In the new development, there are 23 lots: 4 lots are over 10,000 sq. ft., and 9 lots are under 7,000.  The new development is much denser.

Next, the street on Cardinal is wide enough for cars to park on one side of the street. This wider street provides better access for emergency vehicles. In the new development, the street is narrow, there is no street parking, and there are a limited number of extra parking spaces.

Finally, 11 of the 13 homes on Cardinal have 3-car garages. The new development has 2-car garages. For Cardinal, the 3-car garages and street parking provide plenty of parking for the residents and their guests. The new development does not provide enough parking for the future residents and their visitors.

There is much concern in the neighborhood that cars will park on Proctor Road, causing difficulties and safety issues for current residents and all travelers on Proctor Road.

—Debbie Parkes, Castro Valley

Objections to Proctor Canyon More Than What

Forum Reported

Editor:

I’m writing in response to the letter last week “Welcomes Proctor Canyon Development” (see above).

The Proctor Canyon project bears little resemblance to the Cardinal Court development. Cardinal Court contains 13 lots, every lot is over 10,000 square feet, the homes average 3,000 square feet and there is parking on one side of the street. The Proctor Canyon project proposes 23 homes, a majority of the lot sizes only minimally meet the requirement of 6,550 square feet, house sizes average 1,800 sqaure feet, and the width of the street does not allow for parking on either side (only 22 proposed spaces of public parking.)  The only similarity between these two projects is their overall size of 5-plus acres.

The Forum also got it wrong when it came to reporting the public’s comments on the Proctor Canyon development, “MAC Puts Off Decision on Big Housing Project” (Page 1, Feb. 27).

The public’s comments expressed concern about a myriad of issues, not just increased vehicle traffic. The comments ranged from affects on water pressure to the surrounding community, pre-existing problems in the area with PG&E lines, development density, wetland preservation, parking concerns, and increased vehicular traffic.

I respect the landowner’s right to develop the property, but do so in a manner that is consistent with the surrounding neighborhood and addresses the concerns brought forward by the public and the MAC

board.

—Angela Wilhelm, Castro Valley

Time for CV to Become a City?

Editor:

It is time! It is time for the people of Castro Valley to become a city! Yes, a city!

I am so darn tired of the Alameda County Board of Supervisors telling us how to live in our community. Are you tired of it also?

TJ Maxx is welcomed here if they use the old Daughtrey’s Department store building. I live on Jamison Way and this street will not handle the pedestrian or auto trafffic. Only half of Jamison Way has sidewalks to begin with.

If Castro Valley was incorporated the people of Castro Valley would have more of a voice. MAC may or may not see our point of view but a city council would be more inclined to answer to the people of their city.

Stefan Morosky (Letters, March 6) has a good point. What happened to the original planning for the landscaping of Castro Valley Blvd.? Did someone from the board of supervisors say,

“Oh the heck with what was planned. Lets make a change and use the rest of the money for some other purpose.”

Where was our supervisor during these discussions?

As for the food trucks, Yuk! Castro Valley has so many fast-food outlets we don’t need any more on wheels. Who is going to benefit from the food trucks? Our present eateries? I don’t think so.

People are going to be people. I can see more trash being thrown on our streets even if the trash bins are within 10 feet. I had come to Castro Valley with my late aunt way back in 1943/44 when Castro Valley was a true small town. I have lived here now for nearly 51 years and I hate to see what is happening to our beautiful homes.

But I think I know why TJ Maxx and the food trucks will be here. Tax revenue! Yes, our board of supervisor are more interested in tax dollars than what the people of Castro Valley want.

Think about it people! Think of how it would be to become our own city. There are many living here that would make a great city council and mayor.

—Richard “Dick” Purdee, Castro Valley

Feels Whole Boulevard Should Have

Been Included in Streetscape

Editor:

It was my understanding that when they said the Boulevard was going to be redone, in my mind it meant the whole boulevard, not just the middle of town.

When you enter Castro Valley from Center St. or from the area by 3 Crosses Church, it’s left the same old ugly way it was. The street lamps don’t match the pretty new ones. And the cross walks don’t match the new ones, either.

For what it cost to redo the middle of town and the seven months over the deadline, the whole boulevard should have been done. Disappointed....

—Pamela Steffenson, Castro Valley

Accuses County of Bait-and-Switch

On Streetscape Designs

Editor:

I find it interesting that I can no longer find the original Streetscape plans and renderings on the Internet. The current plans are indeed different from what I remember, particularly regarding the center median design, which originally had architectural columns in the center.

Someone at the county engaged in bait-and-switch, and should be held accountable. This is just more incentive for us to become incorporated and control our own destiny.

However, the so called “weeds” are actually decorative grasses that die back in winter and should be trimmed back to promote spring growth.  Grasses are a good choice since they are low maintenance and can be very graceful and beautiful when in full growth. So, have patience, they will reward you in spring and summer.

—Robert Thomas, Castro Valley

Just Wait Till Spring for the Grass

To Turn Green Again

Editor:

Let’s not be too hasty.

Previous letters by Rudy, Postorino and Cardoza have expressed dismay over the dry and brown nature of portions of the Boulevard landscaping.

I hope they will be relieved to know that many plants go dormant in the wintertime, returning to green in the spring. Let’s see what the plants look like over a full life cycle, winter, spring, summer and fall, before rushing to judgement about their appearance.

—Marcos Eisenberg, Castro Valley

She’s Got Questions for Drivers,

Pedestrians, and Marc Crawford

Editor:

Why do people stop their cars 1/2 way into the crosswalk? Why do people step into the street without checking for oncoming traffic?

Why do people walk behind vehicles that are backing up? Why does Marc Crawford think “So now we will have to pay more to get the product we were supposed to get?” We already paid for it. Why do we need to pay more?

—Midge Lewis, Castro Valley

Long-Overdue Marshall School Sidewalk Project

Needs to Be Completed Before a Tragedy Occurs

Editor:

In response to Marshall’s Elementary School Sidewalk Project, let me get this straight.

The money was appropriated in 2003 and nothing has been done.  Since 2003, the county’s Pedestrian Master Plan for Unincorporated Areas proposed a sidewalk and crosswalk construction project around Marshall Elementary School.

The Marshall project is urgently needed because:

“Collision rates on roadways near the school are more than 4-1⁄2 times higher than Statewide averages. Sidewalks in the area are discontinuous, and pedestrian pathways are often muddy due to rain or blocked by parked cars, resulting in pedestrians walking in the roadway.   Some roadway crossings for pedestrians are unmarked and lack ADA-accessible ramps to the walkways.”

Per the plan, construction was to be completed by August 2007.      Were the funds mismanaged or set aside for a rainy day when a child or an adult gets injured or, worst case, killed?

Mr. Chu, just what is it that you do, do? That’s what it smells like to me.

The other day, after I dropped off my children, a car didn’t make a complete stop at the stop sign at the intersection of Alana and Omega Avenue. The car was so close to me that I was able to touch the car, very scary indeed.

The community is having a very hard time understanding why other projects have been completed and not ours. I sincerely hope that the sidewalk construction project will be completed in the very near future and before we have another tragedy in our community.

—Carl Swanson Jr., Castro Valley

Welcomes Proctor Canyon Development

Editor:

I’m writing in response to the letter last week “Warns of Hazardous Conditions if Proctor Canyon Development is Approved” (Letters, Feb. 27).

In the past a similar project was undertaken on Proctor, the property which is now known as Cardinal Court, a 13-home development was built on the other side of the street near the proposed Proctor Canyon site.

I see no effects of additional traffic or cars parking on Proctor from these homes and have seen no evidence of traffic hazards. The traffic engineers look at all aspects of a development such as this and make there recommendation on the actual impact of the development, not on the fears of the few who will resist change no matter what.

It’s unrealistic to believe these large over sized lots will not be developed in time. Proctor residents have worked with the county and had speed bumps installed to reduce the traffic speeds. I see little to no impact on the area as a whole.

I, for one, would welcome the development; the tax base and additional commerce these homes would bring to our community is a plus for the greater good of Castro Valley.

—Matthew Edson, Castro Valley

Suggests TJ Maxx Should Occupy Daughtrey Bldg.,

Use Space Behind Village for the Food Trucks

Editor:

It seems rather silly to build a TJ Maxx retail department store in the village, when the old Daughtrey/family billiards building has been sitting vacant for years. Why not put the TJ Maxx in that building?

The space that was to be used in the Village for a TJ Maxx could be used for a  Food Truck gathering place, with a unique park-like setting amid redwood trees. The Food Trucks offer a variety of foods that don’t already exist and if the locals want to eat at the existing restaurants as they have before, they will.

One last thing. How about the county fixes the broken concrete center median island at the U-turn at Castro Valley Blvd. at Yeandle, right in front of Blvd Burger?

Seems rather strange how everything west of Redwood road got revitalized, but everything east has been neglected. That broken concrete center median has been like that for years and could pose a trip-and-fall hazard, plus it’s a visual eyesore to the downtown “Streetscape.”

I guess eliminating giant burger  signs is more of a priority?

—Stefan Morosky, Castro Valley