Letters to the Editor 09.11.25

Hopes and Prayers

If the writer would have taken two seconds to climb out of his anti-Catholic and anti-religious bias, he would have found that the Catholic bishops support very strict gun control laws (“The Diocese of Monterey finally weighs in on a school shooting – but why only now?” Sept. 4-10). To people who are religious, praying is the most important thing they can do. — Christopher E. Panetta | Monterey

To say “Prayer will not end the epidemic of gun violence” is to reveal a Newsom-like ignorance of what prayer truly means. Prayer is not a substitute for action; it is the spark that awakens action. As G.K. Chesterton wrote, “To each man one soul only is given; to each soul only is given a little power” – and prayer awakens that power to resist evil and choose good. — Richard Esteban | Salinas

Bradley Zeve, please address the real issues and not the superficial reason for these tragic shootings. The age-old statement that “guns don’t kill people, people kill people” is still true. Address the real problem – the demise of the family and the failure of society to instill the values and morals in our young people that encourage a society of people that can get along.

Do we any longer teach and encourage biblical values to young people except in our churches? The answer is no. Instead our public schools, and many private schools, are pushing transgender-affirming issues and attempting to keep parents in the dark. Our children don’t know what to think and are left with no moral compass.

We are supposed to have tolerance for these issues while we try to bury Christian values as old-fashioned and irrelevant. — Robert McGregor | Salinas

Fly Over

Reminds me of people who relocated to rural Vermont and complained about the smell of manure in the summer when farmers fertilized their fields. Really? (“Seeking relief from constant plane traffic, a group of Monterey residents have lawyered up,” Aug. 28-Sept. 3.) — Charlotte Palumbo | via social media

They did indeed change the flight paths after these people bought their homes. That’s a fact. — Stephen Moorer | Monterey

I would love to see a resolution to this. Is there anything we (residents of New Monterey) can do to help? It’s been so much worse this year, unbearably loud every five to 10 minutes it seems! — Emily Bruza | Monterey

Quieter Flight

This piece is quality business journalism. Congratulations to Erik Chalhoub and the editors involved (“Joby Aviation is getting close to turning its vision of air taxis into reality. But when will that future arrive, and who will benefit?” Sept. 4-10) — George Lentz | Seaside

Near MIIS

It has become increasingly difficult to recruit and retain students due to the astronomical cost of housing. Students simply can’t afford to live here anymore (“Middlebury announces the end of MIIS, a devastating blow to Monterey,” Sept. 4-10). That is the sad reality – and it’s not just affecting MIIS, but also CSUMB, MPC and every other institution trying to serve our community.

Monterey County is now one of the most expensive places to live in the entire country. Rents continue to soar, pricing out students, working families and essential workers. Meanwhile, we see homes sitting empty – owned by corporations or billionaires – adding nothing to the fabric of our community. How can we call ourselves a hub of education and innovation if students are shut out of their most basic need – housing?

The students at MIIS contribute to the heart and soul of Monterey. Their absence is a loss for the city’s vibrancy, diversity and cultural richness. The ripple effects of this closure will also be felt globally impacting international development, policy, education and global security. — Sasha Kingsley | via email Note: Kingsley is director of student life and engagement at MIIS.

Center Stage

What a young woman to spotlight. Thank you! (“Hartnell College freshman Francesca Muñoz found her voice on stage,” Sept. 4-10). — Kate Novoa | Big Sur

This young lady has enormous potential! Keep following your heart and exploring your passion. — Mary Johnson-Derr | via social media

Past, Present

Kudos on another cover story that helps our community understand our history (“Just as local Japanese American history is having a moment, its most important chapter comes into focus,” Aug. 21-27). Stories matter. It’s built into our humanity and draws others in. Journalism supports a well informed and healthier community. — Brian Edwards | Pacific Grove

Baked Fresh

I was really hoping he would find a great spot in Seaside (“Ad Astra owner Ron Mendoza shares how fine dining and skateboarding led him to craft baked goods,” Aug. 28-Sept. 3). Sad to lose such a gem. Maybe they will consider another location here one day. — Alex Miller | Seaside Note: Miller is a member of Seaside City Council.

Big on Flavor

We have had several delightful meals at Congo Go! It’s very casual, but the food is superb (“Two sisters bring Cambodian cuisine to Seaside, hiding in a boba tea shop,” Sept. 4-10). Love the story behind these two young women and how they embody the American dream. — Tom Hicks | Seaside

Coffee Buzz

Welcome back! I had a great cup of coffee and a pastry there this morning (“The Power Plant in Moss Landing reopens with a new look – and more to come,” posted Sept. 3). — Mike Moeller | Marina

The banana-date smoothie is the best. — James Velarde | Monterey

I’m cheering these guys on! — Shawn Adams | Monterey