Letters to the editor | Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021: Of COVID-19, vaccines, speed bumps and more
Thanks for the warning, Turlock
I just finished reading that Turlock will resume its annual downtown Christmas parade on Dec. 3.
“The city will not verify COVID-19 vaccination status or negative test results…”
“The city also does not plan to require masks…”
“…designated four viewing areas along Main Street and Broadway Avenue … Turlock will not issue citations to enforce the viewing area boundaries ...”,
“... anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should not attend…”
“… the city will rely on attendees themselves to ensure they are fully vaccinated or have had a negative test.”
They could have just issued a press release to say, “Turlock is going to have a downtown Christmas parade on Dec. 3.”
Thanks for the warning, City of Turlock.
Randy Little, Turlock
Reckless restaurant-goers
This is getting pathetic. I was publicly chastised today for following the county masking ordinance by a group of diners blatantly flaunting the law. The local Huckleberry’s restaurant had clearly posted the legal requirement, but feel they are powerless to enforce it. They have attempted to comply, as they cannot afford to limit their capacity to 50% or less to ensure six-foot distancing.
How long do those of us who abide by the law have to be put in continual jeopardy by these ignorant morons who refuse to use common sense? Yes, we all have rights, but I’ll be damned if I’ll be told to stay home because of the reckless disregard of these people. This is no less of a public safety menace than those who think they can drive on public roads while intoxicated or worse, distracted, with no repercussion. Is that now protected by the 1st Amendment, too?
I guess it’s your right to be an idiot, but not at the expense of everyone around you.
Sean Howard, Salida
Please, do the right thing
There are 741,000 dead Americans. 5,000,000 deaths worldwide.
We have a solution to this problem. Get the COVID-19 vaccine. Wear a mask. If you don’t want to do those simple things, you need to remove yourself from society. Stay home. Have your groceries and other necessities delivered to your house. You will save lives.
I am immunocompromised. I stayed home for an entire year. I am now vaccinated and wear a mask anytime I go outside. It’s your turn now. I did my part.
Don’t want your kids vaccinated? Home school them! You don’t “trust” science? Will you go to the hospital when you get COVID? Please don’t. They’re going to use the same science you don’t trust to keep you healthy. Stay home and hope you’re one of the survivors with just heart/lung damage and brain fog. Not so bad, right?
Long term health effects are devastating. Heart and lung problems. Brain “fog.” Memory loss. These can be lifelong health problems. Don’t want the vaccine because fetal cells were used in research? That’s true of every vaccine you have ever had. Get over it. Do the right thing.
Gaetana Drake, Modesto
Speed bumps needed
I recommend speed bumps be placed before all Modesto City Schools crosswalks. Maybe the grandmother and 8-year-old granddaughter (Garrison Elementary student hit by vehicle, Sept. 13, 2021), as well as, others would not have been hit by the speeding vehicles
Glenn Davis, Modesto
Violence has to stop
I was horrified by the news today. I humbly submit an appeal to the worldless people of our culture who turn always to violence as a remedy for any adversity, to cease.
The report of adults booing and thoughtlessly attacking a teenager for speaking his version of truth at a school board meeting in Clovis should sicken us all. His transgression was to speak out in favor of masks and vaccine for school children like himself, as the board sat in shameful indifference, while one attacker proudly slipped into his NRA beanie before leaving. Shame be with those perpetrators of violence and enemies, of free speech, and children who are forthright, along with the spineless officials who sat.
Then I turn on the TV to record the Warrior game, and instead hear that a fourth student was killed at school in Philadelphia. That is four children put to death since school began in late August.
Our country is on a death spiral where lies and falsehood are shameful and violent acts make us savages, not human beings.
Timothy Buchanan, Modesto
How not to be pro-America
If you believe you are above the laws of our country, you are not pro-America. If you repeatedly praise an enemy of our country, you are not pro-America. If you hold secret meetings without any other Americans present with an enemy of our country, you are not pro-America.
If you trash-talk our military heroes and those who gave their lives for our country, you are not pro-America. If you constantly sow seeds of hate and create hostile divisions among citizens of our country, you are no pro-America.
If you fervently support someone whose actions constantly show they are not pro-America, then you also are not pro-America.
Glenn White, Oakdale
Wanted: More statesmen
I finally have to admit that I am a domestic terrorist. I follow in the footsteps of some famous ones from the past. Names like Washington, Hamilton, Jefferson, Adams etc. I gladly align myself with them. I propose that those who don’t might not really be Americans.
Can I propose one other radial ideal? How about we don’t worry so much about whether we are Republican or Democrat and just all be Americans. Let’s all do what is best for our nation and not so much what will advance our political power.
Back in the ’50s someone said “what we need are more statesmen and fewer politicians”. So true even today.
Tom Simms, Modesto
This story was originally published October 31, 2021 at 6:00 AM.
