Font ResizeA healthy planet benefits us all
I don't understand how people today could still deny man's part in climate change. I'm referring to a recent letter, "Humans not altering planet's climate" (Letters, May 17).
Perhaps 100 years ago, when there were only 1.5 billion people on this planet, man's actions were inconsequential. Now there are 7 billion people on this planet and all of us want a lifestyle that is rapidly depleting our natural resources. I don't have any doubt that 7 billion people are affecting the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat.
Also, the letter says most Americans take too many pills ("human pesticides") and, yet, we get upset when cows and plants are given pesticides. Well, cows and plants are sources of food, so we should be rightly concerned about the antibiotics, herbicides and pesticide in them. Plus, our drinking water has traces of pharmaceuticals from people taking medications. This is a good example how our actions can unknowingly affect the rest of us.
Yes, many regulations are convoluted and even unnecessary in some cases, but eliminating regulations is not the answer. I support clearly written, relevant and easy to administer regulations that support sustainability of our planet.
In the long run, our nation's economy and security depends on a healthy planet.
Cana Chin
Albany
In response to recent articles regarding the supervisor race in Alameda County's 4th District, what a shame that two respected candidates have been subjected to such critical statements.
I feel what's worse is the scrutiny Supervisor Nate Miley's aide, Bob Swanson, has endured. Swanson has been such an asset to the 4th District community, working tirelessly to intercept any concerns or problems in our neighborhoods and commercial districts.
I've never called upon him when he hasn't dropped what he's doing to come and help with our needs, answer any questions or give us the right connection to solve our problems.
Supervisor Miley and his staff dedicate their time 24/7 to provide and protect the quality of life for all they serve. I, for one, am thankful we have them, because I sure wouldn't want their jobs. Keep up the good work, and I applaud Swanson for defending your beliefs.
Roberta Rivet
Castro Valley
Yes, lower taxes do bring more revenue
I continue to be amused by the comments made by letter writer Ed Chainey (Letters, June 1).
He accuses Thomas Sowell of being a class warfare proponent because he made note that higher-income taxpayers have used the tax code to minimize their taxes.
I am sure Chainey instructs his tax preparer to ignore all tax deductions so he can pay higher taxes. Sure he does.
Further, he asserts without any proof that higher taxes result in higher tax revenue. According to the IRS, the average total tax collected from individuals from 2003-05 was $806.9 billion; from 2006-08, it was $1,057.7 billion.
Unless my eyes deceive me, lowering the tax rate, when fully implemented, resulted in higher tax revenue.
If Chainey was CEO of Macy's and noted lower revenues, would he raise the prices of merchandise to collect more revenue or would he reduce prices to attract more customers?
Philip R. La Scola
Livermore
Experience with Kaiser was entirely different
Doris Basile writes (June 5) that she didn't receive a "personal" touch from Kaiser. My experiences have been different.
Within the past three years, I've had two outpatient surgeries at Kaiser-Pleasanton and in both cases I received a follow-up call from a nurse and once from the surgeon and, in both cases, I received a card in the mail signed by all the attending staff, including the receptionist, wishing me a quick recovery.
My primary care physician has also initiated calls to my home to discuss health issues on at least three occasions.
This is personal enough for me.
Clark Sturges
Walnut Creek
Banchero's closing is a tough blow
I was so sorry to hear of the ending of our favorite place in the Bay Area.
I lived in the Bay Area for years, and even after I left we still came to visit and have a wonderful meal at Banchero's. Five generations of my family celebrated all different occasions there as well.
I want to wish John Banchero Jr. the best; I know he worked very hard. The best also to Don, who worked there forever, Tony the bartender, and all the wonderful waitresses who gave such wonderful service.
To you all, God bless, and I will miss you all very much.
Betty Martin
Modesto
