Assemblyman Juan Alanis chose his party over his values in endorsing Sen. Alvarado-Gil | Opinion

Disappointed in Alanis’ endorsement

“Update: Stanislaus Democrats and Republicans react to Sen. Marie Alvarado-Gil’s party switch,” (modbee.com, Aug. 13, 2024)

I was surprised to read State Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil’s recent email touting an endorsement from Assemblyman Juan Alanis. What in the world could he possibly be endorsing? Is it the absolute lack of accomplishment during the course of her four-year senate term? Or maybe the cravenly opportunistic party switching, demonstrating an absolute lack of conviction? Or perhaps Alanis is endorsing the unprofessional allegations about Alvarado-Gil, her office and her conduct?

Alanis has chosen the easy path of choosing party over the best interests of our community. That should be remembered next November.

Larry Bolton

Modesto

Unnecessarily convoluted process

“If you changed your last name after getting married, your right to vote is at risk | Opinion,” (modbee.com, March 11)

During the process of getting my REAL ID, I was told by the Department of Motor Vehicles that my birth certificate was invalid because it did not reflect my married name. When I pointed out that I had not been married when I was born, and that I was providing them with my marriage certificate that showed the change in my name from Leslie Shaw to Leslie Shaw Klinger, I was told this was not enough. So I provided my California Drivers License, which reflects my married name, and still I was told this was not good enough.

Eventually, this was resolved by renewing my passport, bringing that into the DMV and finally having them accept that as proof that I deserved a REAL ID.

While I think providing a valid identification when registering to vote is fine in and of itself, this requirement that my current name match the name on a birth certificate issued almost 70 years ago is ridiculous. I plan on contacting my elected representatives to ask them to help me understand how this would not disenfranchise me or others from voting — something American women endured hardship to achieve.

Leslie Shaw Klinger

Modesto

Stanislaus Gallery’s important work

“Public grand opening set for new downtown Modesto space. Here’s when and where,” (modbee.com, Aug. 5, 2024)

Most cities the size of Modesto have at least one thriving art gallery that attracts both out-of-town visitors and residents. The Stanislaus Arts Council Gallery is the anchor for visual arts in downtown Modesto.

The gallery works with a consortium of downtown community organizations to coordinate events, and the Third Thursday Art Walks support the businesses of the Modesto Downtown Improvement District. Art education is also the focus of shows for college students, school children and emerging artists.

The gallery showcased the work of Heartland Grant recipients in their community projects. In June, the gallery will present “California Native Flora and Fauna,” showing off the beauty of our state’s unique landscapes. Although the gallery is smaller than the previous Mistlin Gallery, this space will still play a vital role in attracting members of the community to the downtown area.

Barbara Gill

Modesto

Fund vital agencies

“UPDATE: Winter storm warning issued for Northern California until early Monday morning, according to the NWS,” (modbee.com, March 16)

A violent tornado outbreak over the weekend affected millions in the Midwest and South, killing at least 40 people, just days after the Trump administration ordered another round of massive layoffs at the country’s severe weather tracking agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

President Donald Trump and Elon Musk also want to dismantle the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which assists people who have been devastated by extreme weather events to find shelter and food.

Extreme weather events are happening more frequently and more intensely; we need to insist that these vital agencies are fully funded.

Anita L. Young

Modesto